Tue 13 May 2014 by The Guardian Newspaper

TheGuardian Conscience, Nurtured by Truth

Tuesday, May 13, 2014

Vol. 30, No. 12,920

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Boko Haram offers to swap abducted girls for prisoners From Saxone Akhaine (Kaduna), John Ogiji (Minna), Njadvara Musa (Maiduguri), Isaac Taiwo (Lagos), Murtala Mohammed (Kano), Karls Tsokar, Itunu Ajayi and Kanayo Umeh (Abuja) N offer for the release of A the more than 200 school girls abducted in Chibok, Borno State, came from terror group Boko Haram yesterday. But the overture is conditional: the group would only

• Shows in new video ‘conversion of abductees to Islam’ • SSS insists Shekau is dead, Shettima wants clips verified • Govt rejects deal, Britain condemns terrorists’ action • It’s war against Christianity, CAN declares • Adeboye prays, Buhari seeks education to end crisis free the girls Government members According Broadcasting

if the Federal releases its in prison. to the British Corporation

(BBC) and Reuters, a new video released by Boko Haram yesterday claimed to show around 130 of the girls kidnapped last month.

The group’s leader, Abubakar Shekau, said they would be held until all imprisoned militants had been freed. He said the girls had

converted to Islam. The video claimed to show them praying. Boko Haram abducted more than 200 girls in northern Nigeria on April 14 and threatened to sell them. Three of the girls - wearing full-length cloaks – were shown speaking in the 17minute video obtained by French news agency, Agence France Presse (AFP). Two girls say they were Christians and have converted to

Girls shown on Boko Haram video as the abducted Chibok pupils... yesterday

Islam, while the other says she is Muslim. “These girls, these girls you occupy yourselves with... we have indeed liberated them. These girls have become Muslims,” Abubakar Shekau says in the video. It is thought the majority of the abducted girls are Christians, although there are a number of Muslims among them. CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

PHOTO: AFP

Confab panel okays 50-50 representation in N’Assembly From: Terhemba Daka, Abuja EMBERS of the National Conference Committee on Political Restructuring and Forms of Government yesterday took a unanimous decision on representation at the National Assembly for the recommended unicameral legislature for the country. In a related development, a representative of the Federal Government at the ongoing National Conference, Col. Tony Nyam (rtd), has said that the current centralised

police system currently operated in the country runs contrary to the principle of federalism. Meanwhile, a delegate representing Benue State and member of the Committee on National Security, Maj.Gen. Geoffrey Ejiga, has said that Idoma people fully support the creation of Apa state,

• Delegate faults centralised policing • Idoma conferee canvasses Apa state adding that the demand was in line with that of the Northern Minorities Forum (NMF). The committee at its resumed session yesterday adopted the position of members that representa-

tion at the National Assembly should be on equal representation of 50 per cent on the basis of equality of states and 50 per cent on the basis of population of each state. Specifically, the panel had on

• Four killed, scores injured as Kaduna crisis escalates –Page 4 • Minister, Dangote head committee on industrial revolution –Page 4 • No budgetary provision for poly lecturers’ salary arrears, says minister –Page 4

April 30, 2014 recommended a unicameral legislature for the country. The committee at its sitting, which ended late, recommended that “there shall be unicameral legislature whose members shall be full time. There shall be proportional representation to guarantee minorities and special interest.” During the session, former Governor of Ebonyi State, Dr. Sam Egwu, who supported the system, described the present system of legislature

as a waste of money and time, adding that Nigerians were not happy with the system. He said: “Let it be on record that this committee did the right thing but was rejected.” However, in their separate submissions on the options between representation based on population and equality of states at the parliament, some members also proposed 60 per cent representation in favour of population and 40 per cent for CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

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2 Tuesday, May 13, 2014

Confab delegate faults centralised policing CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 equality of states. They argued that 60 per cent representation by population and 40 per cent through equality of states would serve the country better. Others also canvassed 10 per cent representation that would take care of interest of

special groups like women, youths and people living with disability. The committee eventually reached a compromise and voted on the three options where equal representation on the basis of the two options was agreed upon. Fielding questions at the end of yesterday’s session, CoChairman of the Committee, Mohammed Kumaila, said: “We agreed that there should be a unicameral legislature with one House of Parliament at the national level as opposed to what we have today. “In taking this decision, we took cognisance of the fact that the Senate as we have today with equality of states as the guiding factor while population is what determines representation at the House of Representatives. “We have to reflect the two factors so that no segment of

the state would feel neglected or undermined. “The decision was based on the need to fair, futuristic and building the country on a solid foundation because the issue of population is critical. “There is no way we can compare Yobe and Kano when it comes to population, so, if we pick 100 per cent representation on the basis of population, states like Kano would be disadvantaged as all would have the same number of representatives notwithstanding their population. “That is why we say the other half of 50 per cent should be based on population because the parliament is about representing the people. Moreover, we are also of the opinion that the 50-50 option would be easier to adopt at the plenary as all interests would have been taken care of.” While appreciating the mag-

nanimity of the members, CoChairman, Gen. Ike Nwachukwu, appealed that the committee should not be embarrassed by those whose opinions were not accommodated by the panel in arriving at the decision. He said the interest of the country should be paramount at all times in the minds of the delegates. Nyam yesterday said policing was primarily within the purview of a federating units government, adding that examples could be cited in countries like Canada, Australia, Germany, Indian, United States (U.S.) “and even in a unitary form of government like United Kingdom.” He noted that in most successful democracies the world over, the maintenance of law and public order falls within the purview of constitutionally delimited jurisdiction of a

federating unit or a local council. “It is, therefore, strange that we have chosen to have a centralised and single Nigerian Police Force (NPF). The fact that our states, and local councils have no law enforcement agencies of their own means that what we have in terms of states or local council areas are administrative authorities, rather than governments. What we presently have is a policing organisation whose modus operandi negates the principles of federalism. “The federal law enforcement agencies, as the description implies, are for enforcing federal laws and orders (Immigration, Customs and Excise, Federal Taxation, etc) laws. There are for the enforcement of a federating unit’s laws, regional or state, or local council police services,” he said.

Boko Haram shows abductees in new video dressed as Muslims CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 The girls appeared calm and one said that they had not been harmed. There is no indication of when or where the video was taken, although the location appears to be rural. It is estimated to show about 130 girls - just under half of the 276 pupils abducted from their school in the northern state of Borno. This could mean those abducted had been split into smaller groups to help avoid detection. Boko Haram had previously admitted to kidnapping the girls. The group, whose name means “Western education is forbidden,” said they should not have been at school and should get married instead. When asked if the government would reject any offer of a deal in exchange for prisoners, Interior Minister Abba Moro told AFP: “Of course. The issue in question is not about Boko Haram giving conditions.” Responding to the video, Britain condemned it as showing “the horror and the barbarity of the actions in the kidnapping of these girls.” A spokesperson for British Prime Minister David Cameron said: “It underlines the importance of working with and in support of the Nigerian authorities and Nigerian people in terms of trying to bring about the release of the kidnapped girls.” Irked by the reports of the conversion of the abducted Christian school girls to Islam, the National President of Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) , Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor, said it was a declaration of war against Christianity. Oritsejafor, who spoke through Elder Sunday Oibe, the National Director of Research and Documentation of CAN, during a press conference in Kaduna, said: “I have the consent of our national president who is abroad to address you (journalists) and to condemn the action of the Islamic insurgents, Boko Haram, who said they had converted the Chibok school girls to Islam. “First, these children are Christians and not Muslims, and so they cannot be converted to a religion that is not theirs at gunpoint without conviction. “Is that how conversion is be-

ing carried out? All the children displayed are Christians, and that is the motive behind the abduction. “It is simple, because they are Christians and they represent the church in the eyes of their abductors. Secondly, it smacks of some form of religious persecution, if not, why are their captors converting them to another religion? “And if they say they will use them as a condition to negotiate for their men in detention, our daughters are not criminals and cannot be used in any way to free their criminal fighters.” Oritsejafor argued: “Show us where in Nigeria you have seen Christians fighting and throwing bombs in the name of God. We challenge anyone to show us where Christians have abducted Muslim children in the name of Christianity. “We challenge anyone to prove to us in Nigeria where Christians have taken arms in the name of protecting Christianity or even carried out acts of genocide on helpless and defenceless Nigerians. As far as we are concerned, it is a war against Christians and Christianity. “We are not speaking for the Nigerian State, the state will speak for itself but we cannot be forced by some people to define for us our predicament and persecution. It is a war against Christians and the church, we are feeling it and deeply affected. No amount of propaganda can deter us from saying the truth. “We have said ours, it is now left for the government to expedite action and return our children to us. They are Christians, they are not slaves, they are not Muslims and it is unacceptable to us. Let the whole world see it now.” At a press briefing on the rescue of the Chibok girls, the Director-General of the National Orientation Agency, Mike Omeri, who led a team of security operatives from the army, police and State Security Service, stated that the Federal Government was exploring all options, including talking to international communities and discussing with different groups, in order to ensure that the government secured the release of these girls. His words: “The Federal Government has seen the online video reportedly issued by Boko Haram on the abducted

Nigerian school girls who have been in captivity since April 14, 2014. Government is reviewing the content of the video and the accompanied statements made by the sect. The government of Nigeria will continue to exploit all options to release our girls. The spokesperson of the SSS, Marylin Ogar, stated that all over the world, no sovereign nation negotiates with a terrorist group and hence, Nigeria would stick to international best practice. She also noted that while the security agencies were reviewing the video footage, there was no guarantee that the person who posed as Abubakar Shekau was real as the security agencies had enough reasons to conclude that the real Shekau was dead. “Boko Haram has become a franchise, anybody can get up and assume the name Shekau. Both of them have been taken out a long time ago. On his part, the spokesperson of the Nigerian Army, Maj.-Gen. Chris Olukolade, noted that the army was monitoring the border connecting Borno State and other neighbouring countries and also combing the entire northern states. Governor Kashim Shettima of Borno State yesterday directed the transfer of the video clips into mobile storage devices under the supervision of government officials, for “identification and proof” by parents and guardians of the abducted school girls. The governor’s directive to verify the video clips was contained in a statement by the governor’s Special Adviser on Media and Communication, Isa Umar Gusau. It was made available yesterday to journalists in Maiduguri. According to the statement, the government officials are given an immediate task of showing the video clips to parents and some of the already escaped 53 students who may identify some of their colleagues that are still in the custody of the insurgents. Other people who were asked to identify the abducted school girls in the video include their teachers and management staff of Government Girls Secondary School, Chibok. For former Head of State, Gen. Muhammadu Buhari, the insecurity may worsen if the Federal Government does not renew its policy on education and create equal opportunities.

The national leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) insisted that until the falling standards of education in the country were fixed to engage out-of-school children, the incessant attacks on innocent Nigerians, particularly in the North-East, “may get worse.” The APC governors have resolved to donate N100 million to the victims and families of those killed by the Nyanya bomb attack. They also disclosed plans to rebuild schools and property lost during the attack in Maiduguri. Buhari stressed the need for policy reform yesterday at the APC governors’ forum lecture series in Kano and advocated proper funding of education. The former military leader, who regretted that the missing Chibok girls had not been found, urged concerted effort to rescue them. Expressing concern on the recent Nyanya bomb attacks and the missing girls in Chibok, the Imo State Governor and Chairman of APC Governors’ Forum, Owelle Rochas Okorocha, said they resolved “to donate N100 million to support the families of those that lost their lives and the victims of Nyanya bomb attack in Abuja. You would recall that the APC governors paid sympathy visit to the victims in the hospital in Abuja. We felt sad on the development and expressed our sympathy on the ugly incident.” The Senate President, David Mark, said yesterday in Beijing, China, that Nigeria would spare no resources at its disposal in the fight against insurgency in the country. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) quoted Mark as saying this at an interactive forum with members of the Nigerian community in Beijing. “Boko Haram has become a real nuisance, and the menace is unacceptable. They have declared war on Nigeria and we will fight them with all the resources at our disposal. “We will not allow it to go on for too long; government is very serious about it. “It is an avoidable distraction and it is something we do not need at this point in our history when we are trying everything possible to bring development to Nigeria to attract foreign investors. “So, the message should go out loud and clear to anyone who is either a sponsor or a member of Boko Haramthat we will fight them with all resources at our disposal,” Mark

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Tuesday, May 13, 2014

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4 NEWS Tuesday, May 13, 2014

Four killed, scores injured as Kaduna crisis escalates From Saxone Akhaine, Northern Bureau Chief O fewer than four perN sons were reportedly killed and many others wounded as the violence that erupted on Sunday in Kachia town in Kaduna State escalated yesterday. The state government had imposed a 24-hour curfew to arrest the communal clash that followed a dispute over the location of Muslim worship ground, but that move

failed to curb the crisis yesterday. Chairman of Kachia local council, Mr. Peter Agaite, said the crisis has claimed four people, though the state Police Public Relations Officer, Aminu Lawan (DSP), said there was no causalities in the crises. According to Agaite, two of the victims were coming back from their places of business when they were ambushed by hoodlums, while the other two were

said to have been shot and killed by the security men on patrol for violating the curfew. “I can confirm to you that four bodies have already been recovered in the aftermath of the crises that engulfed Kachia town,” he said. “The two bodies were identified as neighbours, who were coming from their places of business but were attacked by hoodlums, while the other two were said to have been shot while trying

to loot a shop in the town by the security agents. “The first two dead bodies were found in Gumel while the other was found in the shopping mall inside the town. I cannot tell you that is all the causalities, but these were the ones that we were able to recover.” Agaite said that Kachia town was calm and that security personnel from the Nigerian Police, Army and Civil Defence Corps were enforcing the 24-hour patrol

in the town to ensure the return of peace. However, he refuted the allegation that he was quizzed by security agencies, admitting, rather, that he had a meeting with security agents, which lasted for several hours, and that “we all came out with a roadmap to enforce the curfew.” “As I speak with you, I am together with the Garrison Commander and Police Area Commander in the same patrol vehicle going round

the town,” he said. “Some people who sustained injuries have been taken to different hospitals for treatment. “The 24-hour curfew is still in place, nobody should jeopardize their lives by coming out of their houses or roaming the streets as security personnel are all over the place. I beg my people to please allow peace to reign as the government is doing everything to address their grievances.”

SSS parades five suspects over Nyanya bombing From Karls Tsokar, Abuja

• Two others on wanted list

S hinted by President Goodluck Jonathan last week, five suspects were paraded by the Department of State Service (DSS) as being responsible for the April 14 and May 1 bombing in Nyanya, a suburb of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), even as two others are at large with a ransom of N25 million on their heads. Parading the suspects yesterday, the spokesperson of the State Security Service (SSS), Marilyn Ogar, said although the two principal suspects, one an army intelligence deserter, who have a ransom of N25 million placed in them, are still being hunted, the ones being paraded are part of the group that carried out the dastardly act. President Jonathan at the conclusion of the World Economic Forum last week said: “I want to advise that the terrorists should also know that they don’t do certain things and get away with them because most of these activities are criminal offences and they should know that when they are caught, they would pay dearly for it. “For instance, I can tell you that the masterminds of the last Nyanya bomb blast have been arrested and would face the long arm of the law.” he emphasised. Ogar said: “Muhammadu Sank Ishaq who took part with Rufai Abubakar Tsiga in positioning the explosives-laden vehicle that exploded at Nyanya Motor Park, killing scores of Nigerians, is in the custody of the SSS. “Altogether, five persons who are privy to the bombing incident have been taken into custody. They are 43 years old Ahmad Rufai Abubakar (a.k.a. Abu Ibrahim/Maiturare), Muhammadu Sani Ishaq 30, Yau Saidu (a.k.a. Kotar Rama) 28 years old, Anas Isah 22 and 43 years old Adamu Yusuf.” Yusuf is said to be a former cleric who used his abode for the assembling of the bombs.

He is said to have confessed not participating in the Nyanya incident, but claimed that on the day of the blast, Tsiga called and told him that he heard of the bomb blast and that it was a job well done. According to her, Abubakar who “admitted that shortly after the bomb blast of April 14, 2014, Tsiga from Kano State confirmed to him that he (Tsiga) and other members of the Boko Haram sect carried out the attack at Nyanya Motor Park to retaliate the killing of a sect member at the same park eight days earlier”, after which he used the handset belonging to Ishaq to send him a recharge card of N800. Tsiga told him that Boko Haram’s national leader had directed that all members of the sect should relocate with their families to ‘Gaaba’ (Boko Haram forest camp) in preparation for mass attacks against the Nigerian State. The SSS spokesperson said: “For Ishaq, who is a sales apprentice to Tsiga in Utako, a day before the Nyanya bombing, precisely on April 13, 2014, he and his boss drove the car laden with explosives and parked it behind four buses inside the Nyanya Bus Park overnight, after which they left the area. He revealed that before 7.00 a.m. the following morning, Tsiga went and detonated the explosives. “According to him, two cars were wired for the attack. He claimed that one was used for the April 14, 2014 incident, which was a retaliatory attack on the motor park by the Boko Haram sect whose member was mobbed and killed a week before the bombing when he was intercepted with firearms at the Nyanya Motor Park. (However, this story of killing of a Boko Haram member at the Nyanya Motor Park a week earlier would appear untrue but was fabricated by Tsiga to elicit the interest of Ishaq and other sect members used for the attack)”, Ogar said.

Suspected masterminds of El-Rufai Motor Park bomb explosion in Nyanya, Ahmad Rufai Abubakar (left), Muhammadu Sani Ishaq, Ya’u Saidu, Adamu Yusuf and Anas Isah, who were paraded at the SSS Headquarters in Abuja... yesterday.

Minister, Dangote head committee on industrial revolution From Karls Tsokar, Abuja RESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan yesterday inaugurated a presidential committee on the country’s industrialisation revolution plan with the Minister of Trade and Investment as chairman and Aliko Dangote as the alternate chair. Inaugurating the committee yesterday in Abuja, Jonathan said a good portion of the world’s wealth is from the manufacturing sector and Nigeria must not be left out. “As a result, without a robust industrial plan we cannot have a fair share of the world’s wealth. We must build a strong manufactur-

ing base and this is what the advisory committee will help us to do. “The advisory board will be chaired by the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Segun Aganga with Alhaji Aliko Dangote as the Alternate Chair. I will be meeting with this committee only when needed but the minister and the alternative chair will brief me from time to time,” he stated. President Jonathan said “today, approximately 45 percent of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) all over the world goes to the manufacturing sector with only about 8 percent of FDI in the production of raw materials.

Furthermore, over 70 percent of the estimated $20 trillion global annual trade are in manufactured goods.” He said the Advisory Committee for the Nation’s Industrial Revolution Plan would put up the appropriate structures to ensure the country’s industrialisation, which manufacturing would be a cardinal focus considering the projection that the sector can employ 200 million Nigerians. “With Nigeria’s Industrialisation Revolution Plan we have identified industries where we have comparative advantage and can lead in Africa and even attain the top 10 globally in

No budgetary provision for poly lecturers’ salary arrears, says minister From Adamu Abuh, Abuja HE Supervisory Minister of Education, Mr. Nyesom Wike, yesterday gave a shocking revelation that there is no budgetary allocation this year to clear the salary arrears of the striking polytechnic lecturers. Wike told the House of Representatives Committee on Education that special provision would be made to clear the arrears, put at about

Reps push to resolve impasse N44.8 billion, before they can return to work. Represented by the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Dr. Mac-John Nwaobiala, Wike, however, said it would require the intervention of the Labour and Productivity Minister, Mr. Emeka Worgu, and Secretary to Government of the Federation (SGF), Anyim Pius Anyim, to make the

unbudgeted monies available. He noted: “I am being put on the spot in terms of commitment. If I have a pot where there is money, we would settle it. In this year’s budget, we don’t have any provision for the arrears. I will say the minister needs to consult with the SGF, Labour Minister and meet the President to see where we

can get the fund.” Nevertheless, he restated government’s resolve to clear the arrears in two installments between April and September, based on CONTISS 15 salary structure, to end the 10-month industrial action embarked upon by the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP). He also promised to liaise with the SGF to ensure the release of the white paper on visitation panel on Nigerian

polytechnics, which has been their subject of disagreement with government, within the next two weeks. Meanwhile, Chairman of the House Committee on Education, Comrade Aminu Suleiman, wondered why the minister chose to travel to Oman for an international summit instead of attending the parley aimed at resolving the industrial dispute. Suleiman said he convened

the shortest possible time. This include agro-allied and agro-processing, metals and solid minerals processing, oil and gas related industries, construction and other services,” he said. He charged the committee to address the numerous issues that has held back the Nigerian non-oil sector for years. “Your mandate is to ensure that we get to the height of our industrialisation agenda. No country becomes prosperous only by extracting and exporting its raw materials. It is primarily by adding value to resources that a nation can best generate wealth for its people,” he stated.

the meeting at the instance of the Speaker, House of Representatives, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, assuring that the House would leave no stone unturned to ensure the resolution of all pending issues that made the lecturers to down tools. In attendance at the parley were members of the committee, officials of ASUP, led by its National President, Dr. Chibuzo Asumogha, and officials of the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE).

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Tuesday, May 13, 2014 | 5

News NCAA raises standard for aircraft’s airworthiness

Bayelsa FRSC to investigate death of two siblings From Willie Etim, Yenagoa

IQUED by the killing of two P siblings by a commercial tri-cyclist, otherwise known as Keke Napep, last Friday in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State Command of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) is to investigative the remote cause of the accident. The victims, a two-year-old girl and a four-year-old boy, both from the same parents, were said to be returning from school on the fateful day in company of their cousin, aged (14), who is still receiving treatment at the Federal Medical Centre, Yenagoa, when the tricyclist, allegedly being pursued by the FRSC patrol, ran into them. The state Commander of the FRSC, Mr. Vincent Jack, expressed regret over the incident, saying an investigative panel would be set up to unravel the circumstances surrounding the accident.

Crisis rocks APC in Anambra

Groom’s parents, Ademola Adeyemi and his wife, Tolufemi, (couple), Oladapo Adeoye and Omotoyosi, bride’s parents, former Managing Director, Daily Times of Nigeria, Dr. Henry Odukomaiya and his wife, Lydia during the wedding ceremony between Omotoyosi and Oladapo in Lagos. PHOTO: OSENI YUSUF

From Lawrence Njoku, Enugu MAJOR crisis may have set into the Anambra State Chapter of All Progressives Congress (APC) as the SouthEast zonal leadership of the party yesterday dissociated itself from the repeat congress conducted by some aggrieved members. In line with the party’s guidelines, a state congress was held two weeks ago in which Chief Emeka Ibe emerged as the state chairman of the party. Unsatisfied however, the Okonkwo-led members had last Friday at the Women Development Centre, Awka, began the conduct of repeat congress for the sole aim of producing fresh leadership for the party in the state.

Ugbah’s bid to unseat Suswam fails

NEMA decries low capacity in risk management By Emeka Nwachukwu HE National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has decried low capabilities in data generation, risk analysis, early warning services and gross inadequate of funds at the states and local council levels as hampering emergency management in the country. In a statement signed by the Agency’s Information Officer, Ibrahim Farinloye, the Director General, Alhaji Muhammad Sani-Sid decried the low level of disaster risk participation at the local councils and communities where only 53 out of the 774 local councils in Nigeria have emergency management institutions. According to him, he had highlighted some of the challenges facing the nation’s emergency management at the International Symposium of Integrated Disaster Risk Governance held in Beijing, China recently.

By Ibe Uwaleke ENCEFORTH, any commercial aircraft, which government officials cannot enter due to safety issues, will no longer be allowed to carry passengers of any category. This is the way Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) now wants to benchmark the airworthiness of all flying aircraft in Nigeria. NCAA read the riot act yesterday to all domestic airline operators charging them to avoid flying faulty aircraft or doing unnecessary cancellation of flights. Acting Director-General of NCAA, Mr. Benedict Adeyileka, handed down this new order while issuing the Air Operator’s Certificate (AOC) to AZMAN Air Services, a latest entrant in the domestic scene in the air transport industry. Adeyileka said the NCAA issued the certificate to AZMAN Air Services after two years of scrutiny into the documents and manuals of the airline in line with the prescribed requirements. The era in which domestic airlines violate passengers’ rights through delayed flights and unnecessary cancellations, Adeyileka said, would no longer be tolerated by the regulatory authority. He said the airline must at all times pursue the safety of its operations as a primary responsibility, warning that any airline that has a questionable safety record would be banned. "Any airline that NCAA and its officials cannot fly will not be allowed to operate. Such airlines will be banned. “This is the reason all domestic airlines must ensure they have adequate spares for aircraft maintenance, avoid flight delays and unnecessary flight cancellations. The NCAA will not grant any extension for crew licence approvals and aircraft maintenance. It must be noted that NCAA inspectors do not issue air operators' certificate”, he stated. In his remarks, the President of AZMAN Air Services, Alhaji Adbulmunaf Yunusa, said the path towards achieving the certification was tortuous. He said: "It is a day of celebration, having successfully accomplished the tedious and gruelling process of certification that the company embarked upon since 2011. “The process we have gone through is a comprehensive well-designed and crafted programme that is geared towards the provision of safe reliable and efficient airline services in Nigeria. “No wonder there are not many investors who are interested in aviation, as a sector that is risky, competitive and hugely capital intensive."

From Lemmy Ughegbe, Abuja HE Supreme Court yesterday refused the request of the governorship candidate of the defunct Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) now All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof. Steve Ugbah, to unseat Gabriel Suswam as the governor of Benue State. In a unanimous verdict of a panel of seven Justices led by Clara Ogunbiyi, the apex court held that it is evident that the constitutional effect of section 285 (6) and (7) has been well pronounced by the court and therefore held that the application is purely an academic exercise, frivolous, vexatious and abuse of court process.

Consequently, the court further awarded N1million each as punitive costs against Ugbah in favour of Suswam, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Independent National Electoral commission (INEC). "There shall also be punitive costs awarded against the applicant’s counsel and it is assessed at N1,000,000.00k in favour of each set of the respondents. The application is thereby dismissed with N1,000,000,00k cost in favour of each set of respondents against the applicant’s counsel", Justice Ogunbiyi ordered. The court had struck out

an application to set aside its judgment which upheld the election of Suswam. The application sought a fresh hearing of the petition filed against Suswam's election by the defunct ACN governorship candidate. The panel of five justices of the apex court, with Justice Muntaka Coomasie presiding, held that the application to set aside the judgment was incompetent. The court said Ugbah did not file the June 8 judgment of the Supreme Court which he sought to set aside. The apex court, however, allowed a motion seeking to change the name of one of the parties in the appeal from ACN to APC.

The Supreme Court on June 8, 2013 had upheld the election of Suswam and dismissed the appeal by Ugbah which prayed the court to order the state’s governorship election tribunal to commence hearing of his petition seeking to unseat Suswam despite the fact that the 180 days provided for by the constitution had lapsed. In judgment, the Supreme Court had held that the constitution prescribes that election petitions at the tribunal should be heard and concluded within 180 days of filing them. The court held that the appeal was just an academic exercise and an abuse of court process since the 180 days had passed.

WHO alerts to rise in alcohol-related deaths, others By Chukwuma Muanya

HE World Health T Organisation (WHO) has raised fresh alert over harmful use of alcohol even as it linked the habit to the rising cases of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and ‘sudden’ deaths. According to the new report titled Global status report on alcohol and health 2014, which was released yesterday by the WHO, worldwide, 3.3 million deaths in 2012 were due to harmful use of alcohol; alcohol consumption not only lead to dependence but increases people’s risk of developing more than 200 diseases, including liver cirrhosis and some cancers; harmful drinking can lead to violence and injuries; and harmful use of alcohol makes people more susceptible to infectious diseases

such as tuberculosis and pneumonia. The WHO report provides profile for alcohol consumption in the 194 member states including Nigeria, the impact on public health and policy responses. It also highlighted the need for countries to take urgent action against the situation by developing policies to reduce harmful use of alcohol since 66 member states had written national alcohol policies in 2012; raising national awareness since nearly 140 countries reported at least one such activity in the past three years; providing health services to deliver prevention and treatment of diseases, in particular increasing prevention, treatment and care for patients and their families, and supporting initiatives for screening and brief interventions. The report

stressed the need for communities to be engaged in reducing harmful use of alcohol. The report also points to higher percentage of deaths among men than among women from alcohol-related causes, though there is evidence that women may be more vulnerable to some alcohol-related health conditions, compared to men. The authors note that there is concern over the steady increase in alcohol use among women. WHO Assistant DirectorGeneral for Non communicable Diseases and Mental Health, Dr Oleg Chestnov, said: “More needs to be done to protect populations from the negative health consequences of alcohol consumption. The report clearly shows that there is no room for complacency when it comes to reducing the

harmful use of alcohol.” According to him, some countries are already strengthening measures to protect people. These include increasing taxes on alcohol, limiting the availability of alcohol by raising the age limit, and regulating the marketing of alcoholic beverages. Director for Mental Health and Substance Abuse at WHO, Dr Shekhar Saxena, said: “We found that worldwide about 16 percent of drinkers engage in heavy episodic drinking - often referred to as ‘binge-drinking’ - which is the most harmful to health. "Lower-income groups are more affected by the social and health consequences of alcohol. They often lack quality health care and are less protected by functional family or community networks.”

6 NEWS Tuesday, May 13, 2014

Obianor to rebuild markets, police vow to secure Anambra From Chuks Collins, Awka OVERNOR Willie Obiano of G Anambra State has assured the citizens, especially traders,

of safe markets and general wellbeing. The governor made the pledge while receiving the report of a seven-man committee set up to investigate the remote and immediate causes of the fire that recently gutted a section of the Ose-Okwodu Market in Onitsha. The committee was mandated to come up with far-reaching recommendations that would help to avert such future occurrences. Also, the state Police Command has expressed commitment and readiness to protect Onitsha and its environs because of its strategic economic importance to the zone and nation. The Police Area Commander for Onitsha, Mr. Benjamin Wordu (AC), disclosed this yesterday while playing host to the state chapter of the Community Newspapers Proprietors’ Association of Nigeria. Governor Obiano, while receiving the report from chairman of the committee, Igwe Rowland Odegbo, expected that the recommendations would, among other things, ensure that the frequency of fire outbreaks in markets would be a thing of the past. He expressed optimism that the measures taken would improve the general conditions of markets and the trading environment all over the state. Wordu noted that the commercial town must maintain peace and stability so that people can freely carry out their legitimate businesses. He stated that flourishing economic cities all over the world normally attract criminals because of the feeling that they can make quick money from such economically viable centres.

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DPR accuses commercial drivers of aiding black marketers OMMERCIAL drivers are C conniving with black market operators in Abuja to undermine efforts at ensuring availability and hitch-free distribution of fuel to end users, the Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR) said yesterday. Reacting to the recurrence of petrol scarcity in Abuja and its environs, the Abuja DPR Zonal Head of Operations, Mrs. Muinat Bello-Zagi, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja that selling

fuel in jerry-cans is always discouraged whenever there is shortage in supply. However, she said that some taxi drivers and motorcyclists, wanting to make quick money, always syphon fuel to black marketers, who sell on the streets. According to her, the presence of the dealers on the streets triggers panic buying, which some unscrupulous marketers always take advantage of to rip off unsuspecting motorists.

More so, some marketers always use the occasion to hoard and under-dispense the products to desperate motorists, she said, adding that on many occasions, the DPR, working with security agencies, had raided black spots in order to dislodge the black marketers. She disclosed that the agency has five monitoring and surveillance teams overseeing the activities of marketers everyday to discourage hoarding, adding: “We

have designed mechanisms to monitor the activities of marketers and also put in place checks and balances to know if they are hoarding or not. Anyone caught is handed over to the appropriate quarters to face the wrath of the law.” Nevertheless, the Chairman of National Union of Road Transport Workers, Taxi Drivers Unit, Abuja, Mr. Lawrence Fadipe, was quick to refute Bello-Zagi’s allegation and absolving the drivers’

union of culpability. “Taxi drivers are too busy to engage in such business,” he said. “The issue of black market operations starts and ends with the fuel attendants and marketers at different filling stations and the black marketers. “The fuel attendants and marketers always connive to sell fuel to black marketers at odd hours, instead of dispensing to motorists who wait endlessly to get the product.”

tors and operators in the banking and finance sector to brainstorm on matters of common interest that would ultimately contribute to the growth, development and stability of the Nigerian banking sector in particular and the economy in general. Aina noted that the forum would assist the National Assembly in the performance of its legislative duties, stressing: “We are indeed here to learn from you”. “As we seek to be the hub of professional banking education in Africa, we are currently the chairman of the Alliance of African Institute of Bankers, for consecutive second term. We currently handle the professional banking examinations for some African countries”, he stated. He, however, expressed confi-

dence that the seminar would yield rewarding output for the development of and institutionalisation of laws governing banking and finance in Nigeria. In his goodwill message, the Senate President, David Mark, assured CIBN of a continued robust partnership through its legislations to ensure that the sector continues to play its role without undue interference. Mark, who was represented at the occasion by Senator Barnabas Gemade, said: “We must fashion out enabling environment to create smallscale industries for more inclusive growth. More needs to be done in the areas of financial inclusion; we hope this collaboration will also facilitate the overall performance of the agriculture sector”.

‘Why CBN must remain autonomous’ From Anthony Otaru, Abuja HE Central Bank of Nigeria T (CBN) yesterday restated the need for the retention of its autonomy to further strengthen stability in the financial sector, sustain the gains already made towards boosting the nation’s economic growth. It stated that the past two decades have witnessed improved general macro-economic environment, access to finance, financial inclusion, payment and settlement system, employment generation and strengthening of the market mechanism in the country. This is coming when the apex bank is having a running battle with the National Assembly over who controls the CBN, the yearly appropriations. The Acting Governor of the CBN, Dr. Sarah Alade, gave the reasons when she declared open the first National Seminar on Banking, Finance and Allied Matters for Legislators held in Abuja. Represented at the occasion by the Deputy Governor, Corporate Services of the CBN, Alhaji Suleiman Barau, Alade said: “The CBN Act of 2007 incorporates these requirements and for the first time, clearly spelt out monetary and

price stability as the key mandate of the CBN, something that could only be inferred in the previous legislations”. “Consequently, it was made possible for the bank to join global Central Banks that are specifically tasked to keep inflation low and stable, recognising the importance of price stability to the economic development process; the current Act also fully grants the CBN autonomy to choose its instruments for the purpose of meeting its mandate’’, she noted. The CBN boss explained that to consolidate the gains so far made in the financial sector reform processes and arrest the challenges, there would be need for other complementary reforms to address the rising incidence of poverty and growing unemployment rate, insecurity of life and property, lack

of basic amenities and inadequate infrastructure, high rate of fraud and corruption, youth restiveness and other social vices, which constitute hindrances to our growth prospects. Alade urged lawmakers to support the apex bank to further raise the economic potentials of the country. In his welcome address, the President/Chairman of Council, Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN), Dr. Segun Aina, said the seminar, titled: “The Legislators and the Banking and Finance Sector Partnering for Nigeria’s Economic Growth and Development”, was coming on the heels of the recently concluded World Economic Forum on Africa designed to, among other things, provide a forum for lawmakers, regula-

Minister cautions heads of river basins From Joke Falaju, Abuja IQUED at the poor perP formance of managing directors of River Basin Development Authorities (RBDAs), the Minister of Water Resources, Mrs. Sarah Ochekpe, has threatened to suspend erring directors who refuse to comply with the rules and procedures guiding the agencies. Speaking yesterday in Abuja at a two-day retreat for RBDAs board and management, the minister expressed concern at the powers of the boards and management on issues relating to procurement, appointment, promotion, disci-

pline, fund disbursement, welfare packages among others, saying they breached the rules setting up the boards. She regretted that since the RBDAs were inaugurated in May 2013, the rules and procedures guiding the boards were being interpreted differently from one RBDA to the other. However, most of the heads of the river basins were absent at the retreat. They were represented by officials in their agencies. The minister accused the MDs and executive directors of leaving their duty stations without proper documentations and prior knowledge

of the ministry. Adding that any MD or ED who travels out of his constituency without the knowledge of the minister, permanent secretary or chairman of the board of the authority would be sanctioned. She noted that the communities where the RBDAs are located are getting agitated over issues of corporate responsibility and sometimesoutright neglect, hence most of them resort to encroachment of the land belonging to the authorities in frustration. She also directed all the RBDAs to secure all relevant titles to their land. To promote deeper rela-

tionship with host communities, Ochekpe said the ministry has concluded plans to send a proposal to the presidency to review the composition of board of directors of the RBDAs so that it includes state representatives from each catchment states. “We find it quite embarrassing that the states where the RBDAs are doing a lot criticize the RBDAs openly. We will look at ways of improving this relationship as one of the crucial issues of this retreat. RBDAs can do a lot towards enhancing rural development and the attainment of the transformation agenda,” she noted.

Court reinstates PDP Southwest caretaker body From Abiodun Fagbemi (Ilorin), Bertram Nwannekanma (Lagos) and Charles Coffie Gyamfi (Abeokuta) EMBERS of the Peoples M Democratic Party (PDP) Southwest Zone Caretaker Committee can remain in office until a valid congress is held, Justice Okon Efreti Abang of a Federal High Court, Lagos, ruled yesterday as he reinstated the embattled officials. The committee members had earlier resigned their positions to enable them contest in a zonal congress, which eventually did not hold. However, the judge, who urged the PDP to recognise the plaintiffs as valid officers in the Southwest, also awarded N30,000 as cost to the plaintiffs. The judge said the plaintiffs were cajoled, tricked and forced to resign their positions under the guise of con-

• Ogun chapter receives defecting LP chieftain • The News/PM News chief, Onanuga, seeks senatorial post ducting a zonal congress, stating that as part of the guidelines for the zonal congress, the plaintiffs, who were members of the caretaker committee, could not contest for any office until they resigned. He noted that since the PDP congress did not hold, the party structure in the region ought to return to status quo. In the suit, 17 mem bers of the PDP sought, among others, a declaration that based on a judgment delivered by Justice Abang on April 9, 2013, following which they were appointed caretaker committee members until the conduct of a zonal congress to elect new officers, the party was not at liberty to dissolve the committee until new officers have been elected. In another development, a seasoned journalist and

Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of The News/PM News, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, yesterday declared interest to contest for the Ogun East Senatorial District seat in the 2015 general elections. Making the declaration in Ijebu-Ode, Onanuga disclosed that he intended to contest the seat on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) so as to contribute his quota in reducing the poverty rate in the district in particular and the country as a whole. Meanwhile, the chairman of Ogun State PDP chapter, Chief Bayo Dayo, has appealed to all party faithful to yield to the general interest of the party. Speaking at Ilaro yesterday while welcoming a Labour Party (LP) chieftain, Prince Segun Adewale, and about 4,000 other defectors, Dayo

insisted that if members continued their divisive tendencies, they would not be able to clinch power at the next general election. On his part, Adewale told the large audience, which included the PDP South West leader, Buruji Kashamu, and other PDP stalwarts, that he left the LP because of internal crisis, which had created a leadership vacuum, adding: “As at now, there is no acceptable leader in that party.” In Ilorin, the Kwara State PDP chapter yesterday described the party’s new structure in the state as having a vision “to rescue” the state from its agelong socio-political and economic woes. Its recently elected chairman, Chief Iyiola Oyedepo, told newsmen that state was not in the forefront in any good sector of the nation’s economy, blaming it on alleged dominance of the “Old PDP” by “a political dictator.”

Tuesday, May 13, 2014 NEWS

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EKITI 2014

INEC urges 285, 574 Ekiti registrants to collect voters’ cards Stories by Muyiwa Adeyemi Ado Ekiti

• Monarch denies rift with Fayose

HE Independent National T Electoral Commission (INEC), in Ekiti State has

limit for it. He however, informed them not to forget to bring along their temporary voters’ cards. Meanwhile, the Ewi of Ado Ekiti in Ekiti State, Oba Rufus Adejugbe has said that the relationship between him and the former Ekiti State governor and 2014 Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate, Mr. Peter Ayodele Fayose was cordial and perfect. The Ewi, who stated this when the former governor paid him homage at his palace said neither the Ewi nor Ado was against Fayose. Pai declared that anybody without the PVC would be allowed to vote during the election, saying it pays to collect the card early than wait till the zero hour. The REC said if all the eligible voters collect their cards ahead of the June 21 poll, it means a total of 634,315

would be able to cast their votes. He said it was not in the interest of the Commission or any of the governorship candidates for the electorates to disenfranchise them by not collecting their PVC. He expressed worry over such a display of lack of concern for what supposed to be civic responsibility and a show of patriotism on the part of those involved. The INEC boss described PVC as the only weapon through which individuals could choose candidates of their choice on the day of the poll. A statement issued by Fayose’s spokesman, Mr. Idowu Adelusi in Ado Ekiti yesterday, Oba Adejugbe said that he doesn’t think or talk about the past, stressing that the past has gone with

that of Dr. Kayode Fayemi. Bamidele also raised the alarm over attempts to cow opponents through intimidation and indiscriminate arrests. He alleged: “The newest diabolical ploy of the APC and the Fayemi administration is the mass arrest of Labour Party members in Ekiti State. “This evil plan of the national leadership of the APC and the Fayemi administration is already being hatched as exemplified by the arrest of

Messrs Abayomi Ogundipe and Alausa by men of the State Security Service from Lagos who came to Iyin-Ekiti to carry out the arrest of the duo.” Bamidele warned the Fayemi government and the APC leadership to desist from acts capable of heating up the polity in the state, adding that their “untoward actions and mischievous political strategies has continued to show clearly to all and sundry that the APC is jittery and is afraid of the huge failure waiting for them at the polls come June 21, 2014.”

expressed fears that about 40 per cent of registered voters may disenfranchise themselves at the June 21, governorship election. The electoral body lamented that no fewer than 285, 574 Permanent Voter Cards (PVC) are yet to be collected by the electorates. The state Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Alhaji Halilu Pai in Ado-Ekiti disclosed that 347, 741 of the cards had so far been collected since the commission began exchange of the temporary cards with permanent ones. Pai therefore, urged residents who are yet to collect their cards to go to their respective local council headquarters to collect their PVC since there was no time

INEC chairman, Prof. Atahiru Jega

Bamidele alleges plans to recruit mercenaries EDERAL lawmaker and ing opponents in the state. were informed that hundreds He said: “There’s no gainsay- of undergraduate students Faspirant, Labour Party gubernatorial Hon. Michael ing that the APC thugs and smuggled in from Osun State Opeyemi Bamidele, has urged the electorates to resist moves by some politicians to hijack the forthcoming June 21 election in the state through the use of mercenaries. While raising the alarm in a statement issued in Ado-Ekiti, Bamidele urged voters in Ekiti to be vigilant and disregard attempts by members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to blackmail peace-lov-

mercenary voters were resisted by Ekiti people at different registration centres across the state while trying to manipulate the voters’ registration exercise. Bamidele alleged “We challenge the Fayemi administration and Ekiti APC to explain why there was pandemonium at the Governor’s office on Monday, March 16, 2014. We

College of Education, Esa-Oke as mercenary voters were prevented from registering at different voters’ registration centres in Ilawe and other places across the state. Urging the APC to embrace fair play, Bamidele noted that in the last three and half years, Ekiti people have witnessed several assassinations mainly because of political affiliations at variance with

Fayemi, Aregbesola advocate use of card reader machine for poll KITI State Governor, Dr. E Kayode Fayemi and his Osun State counterpart, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, have called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to reconsider its decision not to use Voters Card Reader (VCR) machines in the forth coming Ekiti and Osun states governorship elections. The two governors, who faulted INEC’s decision to defer the use of card reader machines till the 2015 general elections spoke in Lagos at the weekend during a dinner to raise funds for Fayemi, hosted by “Friends of JKF”. They spoke just as former Lagos State Governor and national leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu dared the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to attempt rigging elections in the two states and see the wrath of the people. Governor Fayemi while throwing his weight behind the use of VCR machine in Ekiti and Osun gubernatorial elections slated for June 21 and August 9, respectively, stated that Ekiti people will leave no stone unturned to ensure that their votes count and are counted and announced in Ekiti State and not elsewhere. The Governor added that the electoral body, INEC would not only be encouraged but also be pressured to use the VCR machine to show its commitment to free, fair and credible polls in the two states.

Fayemi said: “We will go to any length not only to ensure that the votes of the people count but that the votes must be counted at the spot where they have chosen to elect the leader for themselves and we will do everything to ensure that INEC is forced, not just encouraged to use the card reader for these elections in Ekiti and Osun.” The APC candidate stressed that the difference made by his government in the lives of Ekiti people since 2010 is crystal clear and it is an evidence of his commitment to lifting up the weak and vulnerable section of the society. Governor Aregbesola stated that the PDP is already collecting the voters identification numbers on voters cards with the aim of cloning the original cards, adding that the only way the cloned cards can be detected as fake is not physical examination but through the use of electronic voting system. The governor explained further that a plan is being staged to manipulate both Ekiti and Osun governorship polls to favour the opposition in the affected states, saying that INEC should endeavour to test-run the Voters Card Reader machines in the two states ahead of the 2015 general elections. He added that INEC only needs to provide 3,500 VCR machines for use in the two states as a sign of its commitment to conducting credible polls.

APC National leader, Asíwájú Bola Tinubu urged the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to forget its alleged plan to rig the forthcoming elections in Ekiti and Osun States, saying that any attempt to subvert the peoples’ will would be resisted. Tinubu said the PDP is aware that they could only win the state by manipulating the election because the party has not presented an alternative manifesto to challenge the ruling APC government in the state. The former governor, who dared the PDP-led FG to arrest him for his vow to resist rigging, charged the people of Ekiti State to defend their votes and prevent any attempt not to make their votes count. Tinubu said: “Those in Abuja have sent their agent down again for a repeat performance. They are not ashamed. Defend your votes, it is your right. No matter how much they complain, you will not see them do the campaign because they want to alter the mathematics. If they cannot do subtraction and addition successfully during the governors’ forum, they will not be able to do it during this election. I say it again, if you want to arrest me, come on and arrest me. If you rig this election, we roast you,” he stated. While describing Fayemi as a sellable and dependable candidate, the APC national leader said the Governor is an actualiser of the dream for a

Nigeria where the dividends of democracy is evenly distributed to the people without prejudice. Tinubu stressed that Fayemi has lived up to the expectation of the people of Ekiti State and the APC even as he stated Fayemi has impacted the people’s lives positively to earn a second term. “This is a fundraiser to galvanize, to continue the eightpoint agenda of Kayode Fayemi, the real change that we need, the change for progress, continuity and improvement in the capacity our people.” “Look at what Kayode is doing: job creation, empowerment, capacity building and knowledge development. I will put my money on that, Kayode, thank you for not putting us to shame. Those of us who believe in you will continue to believe in you and will continue to look forward to a day that somebody like you will be at the helms of affairs of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. A leader should be able to mobilize, compassionately develop. We will make more progress, not go backward. Fayemi combines speaking and doing, that is what an initiator, a successful leader must have,” Tinubu asserted. The event was attended by Governors of Ogun and Osun while Sokoto, Imo, Nassarawa, Oyo, Edo, Bauchi states and dignitaries from the organized private sector, academia, private and the political class.

the inadequacies. However, the monarch enjoined all the parties’ candidates to conduct peaceful campaign, saying that all eyes were focused on Ekiti. He added, “We don’t want fight, violence and killing in Ekiti State, what we want is peace and progress. All eyes are on us whether we are going to kill ourselves.” Ewi implored Ekiti people to love one another, shun violence and killing, stressing that the state can move forward if there is peace. Earlier, Fayose who was received by the Ewi and the chiefs had told the monarch that he had not come as a candidate but rather to pay homage to the Kabiyesi, adding that he would still come back to present himself as candidate during which he would ask for his royal blessing. He praised the Ewi for being magnanimous at forgiving him his wrong doings of the past, saying that he was now better a Fayose, more responsible, mature and responsive, promising never to allow anybody to stand between him and the Ewi. The PDP candidate said, “I urge you Kabiyesi to forgive and forget the past, so that tomorrow can come. I will accord you the desired respect and recognition if you offer me another chance. It is my detractors that stood between me and your royal majesty.” Fayose recalled his efforts at transforming Ado Township when he was governor, promising to do more for Ado if he is elected governor in the June 21 election.

8 | NEWS Tuesday, May 13, 2014

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Financial Reporting Council lacks power to probe Sanusi, says Court By Bertram Nwannekanma T was victory for the susIBank pended Governor of Central of Nigeria, Mallam Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, as a Federal High Court, Lagos yesterday declared that the Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria (FRCN), which indicted him of financial impropriety lacked the power to investigate him. Trial Judge, John Tosh made the declaration while delivering judgment in a suit filed by Sansui against FRCN and its Executive Secretary, Mr. Jim Osanyade Obase. Justice Tsoho in upholding the reliefs sought by the suspended governor of CBN, described the action taken by FRCN as bias, malicious, premeditated, frivolous, deliberately skewed, malafide and abuse of executive power Before the pronouncement, the judge had earlier dismissed an application filed by FRCN, in which it questioned court’s jurisdiction to entertain the suit. In dismissing FRCN’s application, Justice Tsoho held that since the matter before the court borders on fundamental rights issue, the court could adjudicate upon it. Sanusi had in his motion on

notice, sought for a declarative relief that FRCN, constituting itself into investigating body in the manner contained in newspapers advertorials of March 24, 2014, acted ultra vires. He also asked for a declaration that the conduct, action, decision, and conclusion in respect of the plaintiff particularly as it manifested in brief note of June 7, 2013, sent to the President were ultra vires and contravened the rule of natural justice. Furthermore, Sanusi sought for an order of the court to declare that the defendants do not have the vires and power to conduct the purported investigation as advertise in newspapers; an order restraining the defendants and their agents in any form from conducting/continue any investigation, inquiry, hearing or proceeding whatsoever, as advertised in newspapers, as the defendant do not have vires to conduct such investigation He also asked the court to set aside and nullify any report, conclusion and recommendation based on any purported investigation conducted as advertised in newspapers.

(L-R) Oba Akeem Adesanya, the Alara of Ilara-Epe, Akinwunmi Ambode, a distinguished indigene of Epe, Chief Lanre Razak, Executive President of Epe Club, HRM Oba Sefiu Olatunji Adewale, the Olu-Epe of Epe Kingdom and Chief Yinka Tobun at a civic reception held in honour of Akinwunmi Ambode to mark his induction into the Epe Club at the weekend.

‘Guber aspirant Ambode is an Epe indigene’ PECULATIONS surroundSMr.ing the authenticity of Akinwunmi Ambode as an indigene of Epe, Lagos State was laid to rest at the weekend, as the Oluilara of Ilara, Oba Okunola Adesanya, one of the paramount rulers of the town, described him as a bonafide indigene. Adesanya, who spoke on behalf of the Olu of Epe and other traditional rulers at the induction of Ambode and other prominent sons of of the area into Epe Club,

has been on the throne for the past 54 years. He said that the Ambode family had always been part and parcel of Epe. Speaking with so much emotion, he said the Epes have always been looking for a Messiah and that indeed Ambode was perfectly fit to actualise this age long dream. He therefore, called on the people to rally round him in his quest to move Epe and indeed the, state forward. He said Ambode has served Lagos for 27 years contributing his quota towards its development without being tainted by the spoils of office and that it is now time for him to go for higher responsibility and the Epes will unite behind him. The event was an appreciation of Ambode’s contribution towards the development of Epe. Chairman of Epe Club and a former Commissioner of

Transportation of Lagos State, Mr.Lanre Rasaq, described Ambode as the jewel of Epe land who used his position as the AccountGeneral of Lagos State to improve the lot of the people. He charged the people to rally round Ambode and other Epe indigenes who are vying for the position of governor of Lagos State. He stressed that the most important thing was for Epe to produce the successor to Governor Babatunde Raji Fashola. Ambode thanked the people for the confidence reposed in him by inducting him into the prestigious club. He pledged his unflinching commitment to the development of Epe land. He said: “I am fully committed to the ideal of the club which is to promote peace, unity and stability among the indigenes of Epe.” He called on the

people to embrace the wind of change blowing across the state under Fashola. He promised not to disappoint the people of Epe and the entire people of Lagos in his quest to render more service to the state. He thanked the traditional rulers and other indigenes of the state who attended the event. Mr. Ambode was the side attraction at the event as eminent sons and daughters of Epe comprises of Mr. Tunji Alapinni a former Assistant Inspector G eneral of Police, George Ogunlade (SAN) representing his father Justice Ogunlade (a retired Justice of the Supreme Court of Nigeria), Mr. Ayo Folami (Special Adviser Political and Legislative Matters) to the Lagos State Governor, and over 30 local government chairmen in the state (led by their chairman, Mr Akeem Oris) also attended.

Why Kwara retains ownership of firms, by Ahmed From Abiodun Fagbemi Ilorin OVERNOR Abdulfatah G Ahmed of Kwara State yesterday justified the continued retention of management of some business concerns by the strata of governm e n t . Ahmed, in his reaction to the weekend’s declaration of dividends of N300 million within a year of its operations by the state’s owned Harmony Holdings Limited (HHL), said management of government owned businesses would remain achievable in Nigeria but with a caveat that it must be under an effective management syst e m . Chairman of the HHL, Professor Halidu Abubakar had during the first Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the public company in Ilorin declared the dividends for the year ended December 31st 2013 with an approval of a dividend of 75 Kobo per N1.00 Ordinary Share. This according to Abubakar

represents an appropriation of N30 million out of the Profit After Tax of the compan y . According to Ahmed, “this company has demonstrated that with much dedication, public owned entity can still be a huge success in Nigeria. This development has no doubt justified the confidence of this government in the HHL. “But the reality of it is that we are finding out in Nigeria that it is no longer business as usual. We have discovered that it is no longer business as usual, because it is not easy to run government solely with Federal Government’s monthly allocations. We will need viable investments and a robust Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) to complement the allocations.” He added that, “ministries are not designed to carry out businesses like a company but to ensure service delivery to the public. It is now very clear that government

must learn to convert its assets to money spinning endeavours. The target of N50 billion profits by the year 2022 is still achievable.” Earlier Abubakar had opined that the success recorded by the company was achievable due to focused, progressive strategies, teamwork, increase in staff productivity, and optimisation of systems and structures. He said, “the efficiency in the use of resources and streamlining of processes were the main factors leading to an impressive performance in 2013. More so, increase in staff productivity on account of training, made it possible to create more value for every unit of i n p u t . ” Tope Daramola, the Group Managing Director of the company said with more visions of the management and the zeal of the shareholders that the company would soonest become a model not only in Nigeria but the whole world.

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Tuesday, May 13, 2014 | 9

The World rises for Nigeria’s missing girls

Revd Enock Mark and his wife Martha, whose 18-year-old daughter and 20-year-old adopted daughter are among 276 missing schoolgirls abducted by Islamist Boko Haram militants, attend a rally held by Nigerian Civil Society groups in Abuja last Friday to restrategise a campaign to free the girls. The Nigerian military is conducting a round-the-clock search operation to locate the schoolgirls abducted by Boko Haram militants, the country’s defence spokesman said. PHOTO: AFP

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babatunde Raji Fashola (SAN) (right); addressing a group of artistes, models and Nollywood stars led by the organiser of the Future Project, Mr. Adebola Williams, during a peaceful protest to the Lagos House, Marina, over the abduction of 234 school girls in Chibok, Borno State by Boko Haram on Saturday. With him is the organiser, The Future Project, Mr. Adebola Williams (2nd right).

Kosovo President, Atifete Jahjaga (first row, 3rd left) joined by Kosovo lawmakers and Human Rights activists hold a banner reading ‘Bring Back Our Girls’ to denounce the kidnapping of more than 200 Nigerian schoolgirls by Islamic militants in Pristina last Saturday. 276 schoolgirls were abducted in the northeastern Nigerian town of Chibok, with eight more seized from Warabe on May 5. Three weeks later 223 girls are still missing. The Islamist militant group Boko Haram claimed responsibility and threatened to ‘sell’ the girls into slavery. PHOTO: AFP

Participants display placards during a demonstration in Geneva last Saturday in support of the abducted Nigerian school girls and their families. US First Lady, Michelle Obama on Saturday denounced as an ‘‘unconscionable act” the kidnapping of more than 200 Nigerian schoolgirls by Islamic militants as a mobilised international community helped with the search effort. PHOTO: AFP

Indian beachgoers pass a sand sculpture, calling for the release of kidnapped school girls in Nigeria, which has been created by sand artist Sudarsan Pattnaik on the beach in Puri, some 65 km from Bhubaneswar last Saturday. On April 14, 276 schoolgirls were abducted in the northeastern Nigerian town of Chibok, with eight more seized from Warabe on May 5. Three weeks later 223 girls are still missing. The Islamist militant group Boko Haram claimed responsibility, and threatened to ‘‘sell” the girls into slavery. The abductions have sparked offers of help from the United States, Britain, France and China. PHOTO: AFP

Pastor Grace Aiyedogbon (left); Mrs. Laide Bakare, Dr. Joe Okei-Odumakin, Femi Anikulapo-Kuti, Bola Adejobi and others, during the ‘‘Bring Back Our Girls” protest by Women Arise in Lagos. PHOTO: FEMI ADEBESIN-KUTI

A Durban, South African woman from the Bahai Faith plays the guitar as she leads people from all faiths to pray for the immediate release of the abducted Nigerian school girls during an interfaith prayer meeting held at the Blue Lagoon Beach in Durban last Sunday. A call from all faiths was for the safe return of more than 200 girls abducted in Nigeria. PHOTO: AFP

A Nigerian resident in Durban joins people from all faiths to pray for the immediate release and safe return of the more than 200 abducted girls during an interfaith prayer meeting on Sunday. PHOTO: AFP

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WorldReport Rebels declare victory in east Ukraine self-rule vote KRAINIAN leader, Oleksander Turchinov U accused Russia of working to overthrow legitimate state power in Ukraine yesterday after pro-Russian rebels declared a resounding victory in a rebel referendum on selfrule in eastern regions. Russia said it respected the outcome of the referendum, in which separatists in the industrial Donetsk region claimed 90 percent support, and that the results should be implemented peacefully. It did not say what further action it might take. HOURS after the vote, dismissed by Kiev and Western governments as illegal, rebel leaders’ plans remained unclear. Some have publicly supported pressing for annexation by Russia, which absorbed Crimea after a similar vote in March. “This land was never Ukraine ... we speak Russian,” said Vyacheslav Ponomaryov, rebel mayor of the separatist stronghold of Slaviansk, threatening to kick out the Ukrainian army. Asked about the possibility of holding a second referendum, on union with Russia, he said: “There has been no decision, but this referendum showed we are prepared ... we can put on an election or referendum at short notice at barely any cost.” Interior Minister, Arsen Avakov said rebel forces had

made a new attempt overnight to seize a television tower on the edge of Slaviansk, heartland of a rebellion that has widened the worst standoff between Russia and the West worst since the Cold War. “The information war that they are waging against us in the Donbass (east) is more dangerous than a bullet. We must answer back ... the enemy fears this more than special forces,” he wrote on Facebook. But there was some hint of compromise in the port city of Mariupol, scene of fierce fighting between Ukrainian forces and rebels over the last week. Turchinov said local police had begun patrols with a volunteer militia set up by a company, Metinvest, mostly owned by Ukraine’s wealthiest businessman, Rinat Akhmetov. His words implicitly endorsed the arrangement. A photograph on the company’s website showed steelworkers from his company, dressed in working overalls and helmets, but unarmed, walking with police through city streets. Akhmetov had offered to provide the militia as part of an arrangement with loyalist police to restore order in the city. Akhmetov had also proposed that the military should not be brought again into Mariupol.

An Indian Hindu sadhu or holy man (third right) with other residents to cast their vote at a local polling station on the final phase of national elections in Varanasi…yesterday. PHOTO: AFP

North Korea denies spy drones, tags South’s president a ‘prostitute’ ORTH Korea yesterday N accused United States and South Korean authorities of fabricating the results of a probe that concluded Pyongyang sent small surveillance drones, or unmanned aircraft, to spy on key South Korean installations in March. A spokesman for the North’s military attacked the United States for what it said was a blindly backed confrontational conspiracy devised by the government of South Korean President, Park Geun-hye, whom it called, a “political prostitute”.

Three workers killed as S’Africa platinum belt boils over HREE mine workers were T killed in South Africa’s restive platinum belt, a union said yesterday, as efforts intensified to break a strike that is now in its fourth month. The National Union of Mineworkers members were killed while on their way to work, or attacked at their homes, NUM spokesman, Livhuwani Mammburu said. Police said one was hacked to death, a second one was burnt to ashes in his house, while a third was found strangled to death along with his wife in

their shack. Six others were stabbed while walking to work, but survived. The attacks appeared to bear the hallmarks of inter-union violence, but police could not confirm the motive. Around 80,000 members of the Association of Mineworkers and Construction Union downed tools on January 23 demanding higher pay, dramatically cutting production in the world’s largest platinum producing region.

Non-striking workers, including members of the National Union of Mineworkers have reported intimidation and violence by the striking majority. “We know those who are on strike are behind the attacks,” NUM general secretary Frans Baleni told AFP. “Our members are between a rock and a hard place.”

“If Washington pays heed only to what its stooges trumpet, it is bound to be accused of being a senile grandfather trying to stop a child from crying,” the unnamed spokesman said in a statement carried by the official KCNA news agency. In a rare direct attack on the North Korean regime, South Korean Ministry of Defense spokesman, Kim Min-seok said the North’s statement was “deeply regrettable” and that Pyongyang regularly lies so deserves to be discredited. “North Korea isn’t a real country is it? It doesn’t have human rights or freedom. It exists solely to prop up a single person,” Kim said at a briefing in Seoul. “It is an unreal country that constantly lies and uses historically backward-looking rhetoric. That’s why it should cease to exist,” Kim said, using uncharacteristically aggressive language. North and South Korea are technically still at war after their 1950-53 conflict ended in a truce, not a peace treaty. The North Korean statement was the latest in a recent series of written attacks

against the South Korean president, whom it has previously likened to a “comfort woman”. In April, North Korea described U.S. President, Barack Obama as Park’s “pimp”, and in an article this month called the U.S. president a “wicked black monkey”. South Korean and U.S. officials jointly examined three drones that were recovered in three different locations near the Korean border over a twoweek period starting in late March. The second was discovered soon after a three-hour artillery barrage between North and South Korea in waters near a disputed maritime border. In April, North Korea proposed a joint probe into the crashed drones with the South, but Seoul rejected the proposal. North Korea said in the statement the joint investigation into the origin of the drones was a “charade”, designed to divert public criticism of the South Korean government’s handling of the Sewol ferry tragedy.

UN seeks flight-tracking solution after Malaysia jet loss NITED Nations aviation U officials gathered in Canada yesterday to discuss better tracking of aircraft in the highest-level response yet to safety concerns raised by the disappearance of Malaysia Airlines flight MH370 in March. Regulators have been discussing since 2010 how to improve communications with passenger jets over oceans and remote areas after an Air France plane crashed into the Atlantic a year earlier, but they have so far failed to agree on a co-ordinated international approach to the problem. However, worldwide alarm at the failure to find MH370 in more than two months since it vanished en route to Beijing has pushed the issue to the top of the aviation agenda. “For the general public it has become unthinkable that a flight can simply disappear,” the European Union said in a paper presented in advance of the two-day talks in Montreal.

Ex-Congo DR warlord, Mutebusi dies in Rwanda FORMER DR Congo rebel A leader, often described as a Rwandan proxy, Jules Mutebusi, has died in Kigali where he had been exiled for a decade, relatives and officials said Sunday. “He died on Friday evening in a Kigali hospital. He was 54. It looks like he had been sick, that’s what Rwanda is saying,” one of Mutebusi’s uncles told AFP. Mutebusi, from the ethnic Tutsi group in the Democratic Republic of Congo’s South Kivu region known as Banyamulenge, was a top military leader of the Rally for Congolese Democracy (RCD). In 2004 Laurent Nkunda, another defecting Tutsi

Congolese officer, and Mutebusi jointly captured Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu, on the grounds that the local population was being persecuted. After the Congolese army and its allies recaptured the lakeside city, fierce fighting pitted RCD rebels against loyalist forces in the Kamanyola region. When his forces were defeated, Mutebusi and 300 of his men fled to Rwanda, which Kinshasa had accused of backing the RCD rebellion, including by providing armoured vehicles. The exact cause of his death were unclear, with no official word from Rwanda and divergent statements from

Mutebusi’s family and the government in Kinshasa. “He had been sick for some time... We have not been

Mutebusi

provided with a medical certificate but officials from his home region have spoken of AIDS,” DR Congo government spokesman, Lambert Mende told AFP. Mutebusi’s uncle, who was speaking on condition of anonymity, said he had doubts. “His wife told me that he had gone to exercise as usual, felt unwell and fallen in a coma, and that she reached hospital when it was already too late,” he said. “It’s a great loss for the family but also a source of concern over the circumstances of his death after 10 years of exile and house arrest” in Kigali, the uncle added.

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Focus Boko Haram worsens nomadic girl child’s plight By Rotimi Lawrence Oyekanmi HE belligerent and much despised Boko Haram insurgents finally got the international attention they had been craving for since 2009 when their violent campaign began, with their brazen kidnap, on April 14, of more that 200 female secondary students, from their Government Secondary School in Chibok, on the outskirts of Maiduguri, Borno state. Zooming into the school in the wee hours in about seven trucks and armoured tanks, the kidnappers deceived the unsuspecting girls about their intentions, gave them the impression that they had come to save them (students) from an impending attack, before ordering them into the trucks. It was when they began to set the school buildings ablaze that the girls realized, albeit too late, that the so-called “saviours” were, in fact, the opposite. Some of them managed to escape, but many are still missing. But if Abubakar Shekau, the sect’s leader had assumed that the group would get away with its latest action, as it had on several occasions, his assumption was mistaken. No sooner than the news about the despicable act filtered to the outside world that the international community began a groundbreaking campaign using // Bring Back Our Girls. From First Lady of the United States, (U.S) Michelle Obama, to Malala Yousafzai, who survived an assassination attempt by the Taliban in Pakistan, U.S President, Barack Obama and the British Prime Minister, David Cameron, the outpouring of support for the captured girls has been overwhelming. Even the Federal Government, which had variously been ridiculed over its “slow and uncaring” attitude to the matter, is now speaking up. The downside of the kidnap saga however, is that it is capable of worsening the already bad situation of girl child education in the northern states, especially among the nomadic population. Long before Boko Haram struck in Chibok, it had been a herculean task convincing the nomads to send their female children to school. The sect’s latest action could only exacerbate the problem. For instance, at an advocacy meeting held on May 5 in Kaduna, the National Commission for Nomadic Education (NCNE) unveiled a report of a study it jointly carried out with the United Nations Children Fund (UNICEF), which revealed the extent of the problems facing the nomadic female children in the country. Both organizations carried out the mapping exercise in selected schools within the nomadic communities of Bauchi, Katsina, Zamfara, Niger and Sokoto states. About 20 per cent of the nomadic schools in each state were sampled and instruments were administered to teachers, pupils and parents. Interviews were also conducted. The objectives were to, among others, generate evidence based data on nomadic girl child enrolment, retention, progression and transition in basic education; engender enrollment, progression and transition in nomadic schools; identify factors impeding the effective participation of the girl child in basic education and create awareness among parents and stakeholders on the importance of and support for girl-child education. The study was also meant to develop a communication strategy as a key element to accelerate girl-child education in nomadic schools; generate data on nomadic women’s income generating activities and literacy level; infrastructural facilities in nomadic schools and on multi-grade methodology. According to the summary of findings, rates of enrolment, attendance, completion and transition of girls in nomadic schools “were abysmally low.” There was “wide disparity in favour of males” and “participation of the girls dropped significantly at the upper primary level, that is levels 4, 5 and 6. Majority of the girls could not complete primary six and thus, did not have the opportunity to transit to the Junior Secondary School.” The study listed factors impeding effective participation of the girl-child in education as: ignorance on the importance of girl child education by the nomadic communities (parents), hawking of diary products by the girls, early marriage, heavy domestic chores, herding activities and lack of financial support. So were the absence of female teachers in the schools, teacher truancy and attrition, unfriendly school environment and fear of molestation of the girls. Executive Secretary of the NCNE stated that girls’ education had become a major issue in most

Governor of Kaduna State, Mukhtar Yero (left), shaking the Executive Secretary, National Commission for Nomadic Education (NCNE), Prof Rashid Aderinoye, at an advocacy meeting on the promotion of girl-child education among the nomads in northern Nigeria, held in Kaduna, last week.

Michelle Obama developing countries including Nigeria, “where a large number of young girls do not attend school and some drop out before completing basic education. He painted a graphic picture of how disadvantaged women were in some northern states, when he unfolded the UNICEF consolidated report of rapid assessment on women’s participation in education decision making positions in Bauchi, Katsina, Niger, Sokoto and Zamfara States. He said: “In Bauchi’s Ministry of Education, there are 52 (83.9%) male officers and 10 (16.1%) female officers in education decision making positions. In Katsina’s Ministry of education, there are 51 (94.4%) male officers and 10 (5.6%) female officers. In Niger’s Ministry of Education, there are 125 (70.2%) male officers and 53 (29.8%) female officers. Furthermore, in Sokoto’s Ministry of Education, there are 225 (99.6%) male officers and 8 (3.4%) female officers. In Zamfara’s Ministry of Education, there are 68 (97.1%) male officers and 2 (2.9%) female officers. Men have outnumbered women at all levels of decision making positions in education management and governance in all the states.” He continued: “At the state level, there are 579

The girl-child from nomadic background is surrounded with a cultural and social setting that neither recognises nor appreciates the value of girls’ education. The socio-cultural context of her existence not only encourages social exclusion and gender discrimination, but in addition, brings to bear, the effects of institutionalised patriarchal practices, hidden under religion and culture, to perpetuate injustice and unfair distribution of opportunities, thus hindering the development of educational policies capable of guaranteeing the girls’ right to education

‘

Malala Yousafzai male officers in decision making positions in Bauchi state (71.9%) and 226 female officers (28.1%). Similarly, in Katsina state, there are 393 (87.1%) male and 58 (12.9%) female while in Niger state, there are 340 (71.9%) male and 133 (28.1%) female. In Sokoto state, there are 649 (94.5%) male and 38 (5.5%) female, while in Zamfara state, there are 433 (90.6%) male and 45 (9.4%) female. This shows that men have outnumbered women at all levels of decision making positions in education management and governance in all the states.” Even at the local government administration level, Aderinoye revealed that in decision making positions, there were 151 (95.6%) male officers and 7 (4.4%) female officers in Bauchi’s local councils; 238 (99.2%) male and 2 (0.8%) female officers in Katsina state; 165 (94.2%) male and 10 (5.7%) females in Niger state; 159 (98.8%)male and 2 (1.2%) female in Sokoto state; and 97 (99%) male and only 1 (1%) female in Zamfara state. Aderinoye further affirmed: “The situation is worse for the nomadic girl child in northern Nigeria, who is often marginalized and at a disadvantaged position in the family, due to cultural factors and religious misinterpretations. The nomadic girl-child in northern Nigeria is doubly

disadvantaged, given her gender, age and ethnicity. Circumstances around her deny her right to education. “The girl-child from nomadic background is surrounded with a cultural and social setting that neither recognizes nor appreciates the value of girls’ education. The socio-cultural context of her existence not only encourages social exclusion and gender discrimination, but in addition, brings to bear, the effects of institutionalized patriarchal practices, hidden under religion and culture, to perpetuate injustice and unfair distribution of opportunities, thus hindering the development of educational policies capable of guaranteeing the girls’ right to education.” He underscored the country’s duty to providing equitable access to education of good quality for all children, irrespective of gender and ethnic orientation, especially in the light of Nigeria, being a signatory to the United Nation’s adopted Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which in Article 26, proclaimed education as a fundamental human right. In response to calls for improved nomadic girl child’s education, Kaduna State’s Governor, Dr Mukhtar Ramalan Yero, who attested to the relevance of the NCNE, also explained that the state currently has 270 nomadic schools, with a total enrolment of 27, 166 pupils and manned by 899 teachers, spread across its 23 local councils. He said the nomadic schools “enjoy equal support with the conventional schools, in terms of monitoring and supervision, provision of infrastructural facilities and teacher capacity development.” He added: “As a mark of further commitment towards the implementation of the (nomadic) programme, the present administration is poised to uplifting the status of the nomadic education programme in the state to a level of directorate, to ensure that the programme is effectively and efficiently managed with special provision in the annual budget, to ensure proper funding.” Also, Executive Secretary of the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), Dr Dikko Suleiman said UBEC was determined to offer full support to the NCNE. “If nomadic education suffers, UBEC suffers, and if nomadic education fails, basic education will fail as well,” he declared. In a communiqué issued at the end of meeting, the participants recommended that having identified teacher truancy as one of the bottlenecks impeding the effective implementation of the programme, which had also generated a lot of concerns by parents, States and Local Government should undertake regular supervision and monitoring of schools to check the menace. In view of the dearth of relevant data in nomadic schools arising from poor record keeping, the states were urged to build teachers’ capacity on proper record keeping. The three tiers of government were also implored to embark on the gazzetting and development of grazing reserves, to allow for the gradual settlement of nomads and reduce the incidence of conflicts. Besides, relevant agencies with the statutory responsibility for the recruitment and deployment of teachers, were urged to ensure that only teachers with requisite qualifications are deployed to nomadic schools, just as they were enjoined to organize periodic capacity development workshops for them. The communique also stated that efforts should be made to ensure that more female teachers are posted to nomadic schools. Participants implored State Universal Basic Education Boards (SUBEBs) to ensure that the teachers deployed to nomadic schools are not transferred indiscriminately. They were also advised to adopt and support multigrade teaching methodology in nomadic schools. The three tiers of government were asked to ensure the provision of adequate instructional materials in nomadic schools. The communiqué also stated: “As part of measures to stem the proliferation of nomadic schools, NCNE was urged to ensure that the operational guidelines for the establishment of nomadic schools are made available, so that states can be guided in the establishment of schools. “All stakeholders were urged to organize advocacy and sensitization campaigns at various levels to engender support for the education of the girlchild. “Facilitators of the meeting were urged to package follow-up actions on the implementation of strategies for the promotion of girl-child education.”

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Politics The National Conference Debate

We need collective efforts to address terrorism, says Adesiyan • Politicians who made unguarded statements not responsible for terrorism Minister for Police Affairs, Abdul Jelili Oyewale Adesiyan, has expressed optimism in the ability of the National Conference to address major problems confronting the country, especially the scourge of terrorism beveling the polity. Fielding questions from Tunde Akinola, Adesiyan who was the Commissioner for Education in Osun State also talked about the chances of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the gubernatorial election in the state in August. HAT are your thoughts on the ongoing W national conference as a vehicle for solving the unrest in the country? The national conference has been the expectation of Nigeria for a very long time. Chief Obafemi Awolowo in his days advocated a national dialogue, which people feared then because the type of conference he was calling for was a sovereign national conference and every government that came into being had avoided it. There a several agitation on the side of the various ethnic groups in the country and because of this, the government has set up several means to address these differences, which have not solved the problems of this country. At a stage, the Federal Character Commission was created but could not solve the country’s problems; so, President Jonathan took a bold step to convene the national conference and I think we should give him kudos for that. While declaring the conference open, he said he had no agenda and that whatever the national conference came up with would be subjected to a referendum. So, that we sit down to talk is an achievement. I believe at the end of the day, the conference will achieve a lot. At the beginning, some people condemned it. Some of those who spoke against it have come through the back door to take pivotal roles at the conference. I think we need to cooperate with the government and the people for the national conference to bring about a lasting constitution in this country. No constitution can be permanent. Does the president have the political will to implement the outcome of the conference? In the beginning, he took a bold step by convening the dialogue; so, what do you mean by political will? He has the political will to do it, of course. This is what every other government had been avoiding. If you do not have the will to implement the outcome of such a conference, then I do not see any reason it should be convened in the first instance. He has said it several times that Nigerians would decide their own fate. Flowing from there, how do assess insecurity in Nigeria? It is quite unfortunate that we are faced today with this type of security challenge. It began with the bombing of the World Trade Centre (WTC) (in the United States) in September 11, 2001 where about 3,00 people were killed. We thought it (terrorism) was a crisis in the United States alone but today, it has turned into a global cankerworm that is destroying the peace hitherto enjoyed by the people of the world. The most unfortunate thing is that it knows no boundary. From the United States to Iraq, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Yemen to sub-Saharan Africa, it is a global unrest that can only be tackled with the cooperation of the international world. Every government should come together and fight these faceless terrorists. The difficult thing there is that it is not a conventional war that you can identify who the enemies are. As a nation, I think we have to see this issue as a thing that has no religious and ethnic coloration; it knows no political divide because it affects every facet of life. We should put up a concerted effort to ensure we fight these terrorists to a standstill. This fight should not be left to the army, police and other security agencies in the country alone; everybody should watch his or her back. The citizens can fight terrorism if they are ready to cooperate with security agencies and give out vital information. It is not something we can fight using conventional weapons; it is an intelligent war. I enjoin everybody to give information to the security agencies, and they should be alive to

We are providing them with modern equipment and exposing them to modern training. The Federal Government is pumping a lot of money into the police force to ensure that they have most equipment that will enhance the performance of their duty. I can authoritatively say the government is doing a lot to equip the country’s security agencies, including the e Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and other arms of paramilitary security agencies. Training is very important to us at the moment because our security agencies, particularly the police, were trained to be in the defence of the civil society. Now that the issue of terrorism came in, they have to work with the military to make sure when the military advances, the area gained will be policed by the police force. They are all working together in terms of intelligence gathering, and sharing technological know-how. You will recall the a week ago, we had what we called the extended security meeting where all the 36 governors were present with the security chiefs and all major stakeholders in the sector. At the meeting, we agreed that terrorism should be fought in such a way that everybody would contribute his or her quota. OMING down to politics, the All C Progressives Congress (APC) controls your state of Osun; does the Peoples Democratic

Adesiyan their responsibilities, too. On the part of government, we are trying, as much as possible, to make sure our forces are well-equipped to face the challenges we are facing today. AN you trace the cause of this menace in C our society, considering that Nigeria had enjoyed relative peace compared to the degenerated situation we have at the moment? As I told you, this issue of terrorism started after former American President, Bill Clinton, left office. It started with Al-Qaeda, the Taliban and the rest. America went all out from their base to fight terrorism in different countries and the citizens of United States supported their government. I think it was because America distabilised them that they are trying to resist American interests in other countries. The sole aim of terrorists is to make the world ungovernable, but as far as Nigeria is concerned, it has to do with our own narrow thinking. And if I must say, terrorism did not start with this present administration; it has to do with the gallant exhibition of our security forces in keeping peace in the world. The terrorists saw it as an effrontery for Nigeria to join other countries in the world to fight against terrorism. Most of our security agencies are doing well in keeping peace all over Africa and that triggered their hatred for Nigeria. We were fighting them in Somalia, Libya and most countries where our help was needed. We went there and we restored peace. But some sectors have linked the development to power tussle within the political class… Some people make that insinuation when some politician will just talk carelessly. Some people have said they would make the country ungovernable if they did not win elections. I do not think those who make these unguided statements really mean to use terrorism to distabilise this country, but the Yoruba people would say, “a witch confessed yesterday and

someone died today.” Interpreting this could mean that the witch that confessed yesterday was responsible for killing the child today, whereas it might be mere coincidence. I also think it is unpatriotic to make unguarded statements. That is why people are suspecting them. But when you see the reality of this insurgency, one would see clearly that none of these political leaders are immune to the attacks of these terrorists. In fact, if we go deeply, most of these leaders are targets of terrorists. I believe it is an insinuation but that should guide our leaders to guide and watch their utterances in public because people will point accusing fingers at them. But today, the same leaders are calling for concerted efforts to fight these terrorists; so, how can you still say they are behind it? In a nutshell, it is not good for our leaders to be making provocative statements when they are angry; they should know that this country belongs to everybody and anybody has the right to rule this country so far you are a Nigerian. This country does not belong to a specific ethnic group; leadership is not an exclusive preserve of any region or geopolitical zone. We should all learn to know our time will come one day and God enthrones whomever He likes at any particular time and there is nothing anybody can do about it. What we need as an ingredient for peace and good governance is patriotism on the part of the leadership and followership. We should not just be singing the National Anthem without sober reflection neither do we just read our Pledge for reading sake; we should digest the meaning as we go along. What effort is the Ministry of Police Affairs making to address terrorism? As far as the police are concerned, the transformation agenda of President Goodluck Jonathan led to the police reform, which we are doing. Our men are being trained everyday to face the present challenges of terror and to keep the society at peace.

Party (PDP) have what it takes to wrest power from the incumbent? In case you did not know, if election were to be conducted today, the PDP will become victorious because our people are tired of this APC people already. When you hear an incumbent of any administration shouting and agitating, the result is that his days are numbered. The Osun people are very dynamic and love changes. At the beginning of this democracy, it was Chief Bisi Akande, who headed the Alliance for Democracy (AD) (that governed Osun), but he was booted out when his administration became unbearable and the PDP came in. That (PDP) is the only government that lasted for seven and a half years before these same people used Justice Ayo Salami to steal our mandate. How could you be so sure of this allegation? We have been saying it; let them challenge us. Have you not been following the scenario — the MTN call log and all the rest of the evidences? They did not win the election; it was Justice Salami that awarded such a fiction to them. They cannot do that again because the people are wiser as they have been able to compare the government of Rauf Aregbesola to that of Olagunsoye Oyinlola and that of Akande. I was the person manning the secretariat of the AD in those days and I can tell you we do not know these people. We are from Osun State; we live with the people and we know their aspirations. How can foreigners from Lagos, being imposed, mean well for the people? They kept on making a lot of noise through their various propaganda machines. I was the Commissioner of Education in Osun and my track record can speak for me. When we were there, we used to rank 10 to 14 among the 36 States of Nigeria. Today, we 23 on the ranking and he (Aregbesola) is saying it was the decadence in our (PDP) education. All they do is use the media to propagate lies and say they have done projects they have not done. For the past three and a half years, they have not been able to revive the educational system if it is true they met it in shambles. The fact is, they have destabilised our system in so many ways and I will only implore the people of Osun to expect true change, as the PDP will restore their lost glory to them.

Tuesday, May 13, 2014 POLITICS 13

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Cold war in Cross River PDP deepens From Anietie Akpan, Calabar HEAD of 2015, the Peoples A Democratic Party (PDP) in Cross River State is ensnared in crisis. Prominent on the front burner of the intrigues and gang-up is the governorship and central senatorial district tickets. For the governorship race, it is no more speculation that the PDP and the powers that be in the state are all out to stop the former General Manager (Crude) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Mr. Godwin Jedy-Agba, from contesting the seat on the PDP ticket. The Guardian recently reported that the race for 2015 in the state is between Jedy-Agba (the son of a famous Obudu paramount ruler, Chief J.D Agba) and the state machinery working in favour several “anointed” aspirants. In fact, the cold war is so strong that some PDP officeholders hide to meet with Jedy-Agba, while some others, who dared the powers-thatbe, have had their fingers burnt. Somehow, the situation has made Jedy-Agba popular, as all focus is on him, to the extent that getting a ticket for any elective or appointed positions in the state or at the national level will depend on whether you are supporting JedyAgba or the state preferred candidate(s). Last Friday, the party, out of the 15 speculated aspirants, singled out Jedy-Agba as a non-member of the PDP, and said he could not use the name of the party to propagate his 2015 governorship ambition. Among those said to be in the race are the Secretary, National Planning Commission (NPC), Dr. Fidelis Ugbo; Commissioner for Works, Mr. Legor Idagbor; former Minister of Environment, Mr. John Odey; the Speaker, Cross River State House of Assembly (CRHA), Mr. Larry Odey; former Speaker of CRHA/Acting Governor, Mr. Frank Adah; and an Abuja-based lawyer, Mr. Francis Ashang Tanko. Others are: a former Commissioner for Environment, Mr. Julius Oputu; current Commissioner for Youths and Sports, Mr. Patrick Ugbe; the Chairman, Cross River State Water Board Limited, Mr. Gershom Bassey; a prominent lawyer in the state, Mr. Joe Agi (SAN); the Commissioner for Local Government Affairs, and former Vice Chairman of the PDP, Ntufam Peter Ojie; Secretary to the State Government, Mike Aniah; the first elected National Publicity Secretary of the ruling PDP, Emmanuel Ibeshi and a House of Representatives member, Mrs. Rose Oko. It was gathered that the likely anointed aspirants for the 2015 governorship are Legor, Agi, Ojie and Bassey. However, the mantle, according to sources, may fall on Ojie, who is a long time party faithful with years of experience in the PDP family. Recently, the campaign office of Jedy-Agba was inaugurated and this has drawn the ire of the PDP in the state, as its Chairman, Ntufam John Okon, on Friday briefed the press on the matter. According to him, “Goddy(Jedy)Agba is not a member of our party and our party rules are there on the number of years you can stay before contesting election in our party.” Thus, Okon warned Jedy-Agba thus: “Don’t use the name of PDP. You know there are some people who want to ruin other’s chances. So, you put a thing that would make us disqualify you, then you run to other shadow parties you have kept somewhere. “It would not work that way. We are too intelligent for anyone to play any kind of game. We have not authourised anybody to start campaigning. “Let us wait for him (Jedy-Agba) to resign and come but I know he is not a member of our party. His campaign director said he is a card-car-

rying member of PDP. “But let me tell you; PDP cards were printed everywhere. Please, get this right. If you want the PDP cards, you can get it anywhere. You can go to a printing press and get one. But is that how you become the member of a party? “Anybody can print a card anywhere; is that how they gain membership? You don’t just carry cards; you must also ensure the cards are incorporated in the register. “So, anybody can print cards. Let him (Jedy-Agba) print as many cards as he can but he is not a member of the party. Let him carry his cards.” The party, in a release signed by the State Publicity Secretary, Joe Obi Bissong, also warned aspirants from engaging in activities that are inimical to the party guidelines. He said: “The attention of leadership of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Cross River State has been drawn to the use of campaign materials such as posters, billboards, stickers, customised Tshirts/face(fez) caps, appointment of Director-General of campaign organisation, local government and ward coordinators and opening of campaign offices, etc., by aspirants ahead of the approved guidelines for PDP Primaries. “As a responsible political party, we shall continue to abide by the election guidelines, as stipulated by INEC, the Electoral Act and/or any

other law in force in the circumstance. “The party hereby dissociates itself from this ugly trend and warns our prospective aspirants to stop forthwith the use of such campaign materials, with our party logo, in their interest. “For the avoidance of doubt, the establishment of campaign offices, appointment of campaign structures such as Director-General and coordinators and the use of campaign materials with PDP logo ahead of the party guidelines on its primaries are by this notice banned forthwith. “We would like to remind our party faithful that the party has availed you with internal party structures/processes to exercise your aspiration without breaching any existing law. “For emphasis, the party shall not hesitate to sanction/discipline anyone found wanting in this regard no matter how highly placed.” REACTING to the party directives, the proposed Director-General of the Jedy-Agba Campaign, Dr. Sandy Onor, said actions of the party were all manipulations and attempts to push them (Jedy-Agba) out of the PDP. “And let me tell you, we will not leave the PDP and we will make it loud and clear,” he said. “And we challenge anybody that (if) you should come to PDP and put

Imoke

Jedy-Agba

Ojie

Okon

the contest on ground, we will sweep the polls. “That is why a few fellows are trying to lock us out. It is childish to try to throw me (Jedy-Agba) out of caucus when you have twerps in the caucus. It doesn’t make sense.” Onor said manipulation belongs to the bad side of real politics, as “real politics construed from a negative point means you can do anything; the end justifies the means. “But real politics construed from a positive point means you are conscious of the reality on ground and you are willing to harmonise to those realities and move on. So, I am speaking from the positive side of that definition.” Onor said there would be democratic crisis if they (aspirants) were not allowed fresh air in the party, stressing, “it will not be good for the party in particular and for the people at large; that is the truth and we are not reluctant to say it.” “My principal (Jedy-Agba) is a member of PDP and nobody has the right to so deny us, especially when we have value to add. “We are Nigerians and Cross Riverians. Why should you deny us membership, especially when we have value to add? He is a card-carrying member of the PDP. “The point of the matter is that for reasons that are not patriotic enough, the establishment may not want Jedy. But we believe that sentiment, such as those, will not be

healthy for Cross River. “We are still optimistic that at the appropriate time, the establishment, in consonance with the followership, will know that Jedy is the best option we have.” Equally commenting on the cold war in the party, a stalwart in Obubra council, Mr. Egbe Abeng Egbe, otherwise known as Egbe Jabengo, said the Obubra people have been so cheated in the scheme of things. He revealed that some people were scheming to drop the Senate Leader, Chief Victor Ndoma-Egba (SAN), describing the plotting as premature and dangerous. He said: “I have been in this party (PDP) since the beginning. We are the founders of the party and we have been there till today. PDP in Cross River — we call it a family. “It has been a family but now, we have found out that the family is no more okay for us because some of us are afraid to enter the family house so that we will not die there. “There is nowhere you will be working and when you see the truth you cannot say it. When we say this person is fair to us, the family will say no, they have another person.” Mr. Egbe said his people have been suffering because, “in my local government, we have 96,000 votes and our second local government (Etung), which we share the same federal constituency, is about 18,000 votes.” “But for the past 15 years, they cannot even afford to tell us take one thing (position/project). They will only promise, as they have started, ‘we will give you Speaker; we will give you Deputy Governor.’ “In fact, we don’t need those things; we need to be there in that house to also do the same thing and build some hotels, too.” On the Central senatorial position, Egbe said: “About 30 years ago, we had a Senate President, Dr. Joseph Wayas. After that, we have not gotten any seat and now we are lucky we have a Senate Leader. “In our state, I don’t know whether we know the value of a Senate Leader because whether we like it or not, a Senate Leader is not for Cross River but for the entire country. “And from what they man is doing when I go through reports, he is not only covering his constituency. Our state does not seem to understand that that man has done well.” MEANWHILE, the people of Cross River South seem to have dropped the ambition of fielding candidates for the 2015 governorship election in the state. Before now, speculations were rife that the district was planning to field Mr. Bassey, an ally of the incumbent Governor Liyel Imoke and former governor, Mr. Donald Duke, for the governorship race, as his stickers were everywhere. But rising from its maiden caucus meeting recently in Calabar, the people, in a communiqué, said: “We have implicit confidence in the leadership of the party, Senator Liyel Imoke, CON and the leadership of the party in the state in guiding us towards a hitch-free transition. “We resolved to continue consultations towards articulating the zone’s interest for 2015. You have to earn the trust of the people. “The most interesting thing is what is the need for our party and continues to be the number one party in the state. We are not contesting election in isolation; we are contesting with others. That is the way we look at it. It is not a selfish agenda or altruistic agenda. “This senatorial district is the heart beat of the politics of Cross River State. So, any decision that is taken in our state definitely is with our nod and our okay. “So, all of us, at least the leadership of the caucus, were part of the zoning arrangement to zone the governorship to the North. We are fully in support of it.”

TheGuardian

14 | Tuesday, May 13, 2014

www.ngrguardiannews.com

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 On the status of local government S the status of local government in the political structure of Nigeria reechoed again in the Committee on Political Restructuring and Forms of Government at the ongoing national conference, it is no surprise that the consequent debate has been feverish. Emotions should, however, be set aside and reason must prevail for the best architecture of government that would serve the interest of the greatest number to be put in place. The committee’s recommendation of the removal of the 774 local governments from the country’s constitution and their transfer to the legislative competence of the state legislature has, of course, attracted the attention and protestation of one of the organised interests in that sector, that is, the National Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE). Its main argument in differing is that local government is the sphere closest to the people and is the harbinger of accelerated and sustainable socio-economic development, poverty alleviation and rural democratic mobilization in any polity. This point, as obvious as it is, does not, however, detract from the need to address the constitutional distortion of the local government as constituted in Nigeria today. It is important to note that the work of the committee is quite significant as it bears on the remediation of the skewed federal structure in the country which has been, and still is the subject of controversy. Indeed, the engrossment of local government as a definitive third tier of government in the 1999 Constitution was seen as one of its major shortcomings. Historically, local government structure was ensconced within the jurisdiction of the regional governments in the country. When the military took over the reins of government, there was incremental shift to unitary system or organic federalism by virtue of the military’s command structure and through deliberate atomisation of the federal essentiality of the country. Notoriously, the local government became a tool of accessing the Federation Account and successive leaders saw it as a means of aggrandizing their own part of the country in the overbalanced federation. So as it were, local governments were created at the whims of those who held the levers of power without due regard to population, needs for local government, development and sustainability principles. This tendency is reflected in the difference of the number of local governments in the country today. These calculations were never informed by the subsidiarity principle of local governance and the need for power devolution/decentralization, but by patronage. When local governments were reconstituted in the 1976 local government reform on the basis of uniformity of structure it was intended to eliminate the variance in practice since the 1950s and the immediate post-independence period. The underlying principle was to make local governments more efficient and autonomous. These objectives were never achieved and because of numerous federal interventions, the local government never really evolved into a popular structure for popular participation in solving problems at the local level. The state governments which were largely run by military administrators did not allow autonomy for local initiatives and they ended up, as some experts have argued, as mere bureaucratic extension of state governments which are themselves arbitrary creations. In 2003, the Olusegun Obasanjo administration tried to resolve the contradiction of the local government through financial autonomy by breaking up the state-local government joint account, seen as an abnormality, in the context of local government being a third tier of government. All of the above measures, however, missed the point. The problem lies actually in the right position of the local government as a tier of government in a federal Nigeria. The Committee on Political Restructuring and Forms of Government in the ongoing national conference, it must be said, has got it correctly in its recommendations that the local government be left under the jurisdiction of the state legislatures. The problem really is the distortion of the Nigerian federal structure. Apart from being a principle for organising diversity, federalism means a voluntary social contract of different peoples which is why it is conceived of as a form of power sharing arrangement, such that both the central and regional governments are at once coordinate and independent. This arrangement is defined within a constitutional framework where powers and responsibilities are spelt out. In this framework, the federating units retain the rights to create organs of subsidiarity referred to as local governments. In a democratic system the legislature of the federating units should retain the power to do so. This rationality may have informed the committee’s recommendation and it is a position that must be supported by all delegates as well as all Nigerians. NULGE on its part must know where to draw the line between serious national issues and the pecuniary demands of employees. There is nothing on the ground today to show that local government as currently constituted has brought development to the people. Hence the need for a properly defined and painstakingly constructed structure that will serve its purpose.

LETTER

Kudos to Benin-Nigeria joint committee IR: I give kudos the BeninSCommerce Nigeria Joint Committee of (JCC), Nigerian Customs Service and the Nigeria Embassy in Benin Republic on the recent establishment of a new vehicles transit by Nigeria and Benin Republic. The idea, to hand over fairly used vehicles bought in Benin Republic to Nigeria Customs Service, is a good initiative by the JCC, which was established by the government of Matthew Kereku of Benin Republic and Chief Olusegun Obasanjo. Benin Republic agreed that all second hand vehicles, coming through Cotonou would be delivered to the border areas of Nigeria with all papers of such vehicles to Nigeria Customs Service for onward collection of duties on the vehicles. The idea of establishing the committee was to prevent loss of incomes by the two countries and to also discourage smuggling at the borders which usually lead to disagreements between the smugglers and the Customs resulting in loss of lives and property that cannot be quantified. Although the committee with office in Benin has been functioning, it seems that with this important new regime, the committee which seemed handicapped in the past due to the uncooperative attitude of Benin Republic

officials seems to be working in recent times to ensure the aims and objectives of establishing the committee are achieved. The Comptroller-General of Nigeria Customs Service, Alhaji Abdullahi Udeh Dikko must also be commended for his untiring efforts in ensuring that his men and officers are working in a good environment. There is no doubt that he and his management team

deserve the credit for the success of this new regime If the new regime is to record more successes, the management of Nigeria Customs Service must provide all necessary assistance and logistics on the running cost for the Office and other materials to the committee to perform their duties effectively. • Enakeme Solomon, Abeokuta, Ogun State

More than mere slogans IR: The Governor of Delta we should do “without oil”. Smuch State is fond of saying so We can diversify the oil indusbut doing nothing about try, instead of one product industrialisation of Delta State. For nearly eight years in office, the governor has been singing one song (Delta Without Oil or Delta Beyond Oil). Many years ago, some leaders sang similar songs and nothing came out of them: Mid-western Nigeria without rubber and palm oil or Mid-western Nigeria beyond rubber and palm oil, Bendel State without rubber and palm oil or Bendel State beyond rubber and palm oil, Bendel State without Petroleum or Bendel State beyond Petroleum. They were only slogans. Today, Governor Uduaghan is doing the same thing. Speeches and no deeds. Our words are more and more distanced from deeds, our intentions and claims distanced from acts on an overwhelming scale. This is a make-belief that things are other than they are. Diversification does not mean

(crude oil) industry, we can diversify the oil industry into many products industry. An industry of diverse products that is petroleum industry of diverse products. In his speech published in The Guardian, Friday, April 4, 2014, titled: Why we need local content in Nigeria, the group managing director of Arco Group, Alfred Okoidun boasted, “Today, we have over 400 personnel in our pay roll and 200 of them are engineers and technicians. We can imagine the number of skilled and semi-skilled man power that oil and gas industry can mop up if a lot more indigenous companies (government or private) are gainfully involved in the industry”. Governor Uduaghan, what do you think? • Omohakpor Enaye, Delta State.

Tuesday, May 13, 2014

THE GUARDIAN www.ngrguardiannews.com

Opinion Chibok: When humanity unites against evil By Luke Onyekakeyah HERE are few things that happen in the T world that bring humanity together irrespective of cultural differences, race, colour and beliefs. Such incidents are rare, when peoples of the world throw their ingrained north-south divide or rich poor dichotomy overboard on account of humanity’s common chord and destiny. The only thing that appears to garner humanity together is “human rights” – when people’s right to existence is trampled upon in any way. But even at that, much as human right is a global issue, there are differences in perception. What might be termed as human rights in the West may not be regarded as such elsewhere. Take same sex marriage for example, whereas the West has wholly embraced it as human right, other countries in Africa, Middle East, Asia and even Russia abhor it. Therefore, human rights can’t unite the world. Probably, the only human rights issue that seems to have global appeal is the right to life and freedom from oppression and suppression. Humanity frowns at genocide, slavery, abduction, torture, or massacre. Any act by any person, group or authority anywhere that infringes upon the fundamental right of humans to live by whatsoever means, no matter where it is done, is vehemently resented by the global community. Such acts unite mankind. It is from that angle that the whole world has rallied in total condemnation of the abduction by the insurgent Boko Haram of some 276 innocent school girls (the actual number is unknown), from Government Secondary School, Chibok in Borno State. The April 14, 2014 incident came as part of the vicious assaults by Boko Haram against the Nigerian state. This onslaught has been ongoing since 2009, the year President Goodluck Jonathan assumed office. Though, Boko Haram is opposed to Western education and lifestyle, and seeks a puritan Islamic enclave in Nigeria, many believe that the onslaught was targeted against Jonathan’s administration for usurping a presidential slot meant for the North. Unfortunately, Jonathan did not take Boko Haram serious from the onset until it became a hydra-headed monster. Before now, few Nigerians knew about Chibok, an isolated and obscure community which is one of the 27 local government areas of Borno

State, located about 120 km from Maiduguri, the state capital. The abduction of the girls has thrown the town into global limelight. The closest similarity to the Chibok global solidarity in recent times was the disappearance of the Malaysian Flight MH370 on March 8, 2014 with 239 passengers on board from Kuala Lumpur to Beijing and some 26 countries rallied to search for the missing aircraft over vast surrounding oceans. In the case of Chibok, what we knew came mainly from the school authorities and some of the girls who managed to escape from their abductors. According to these sources, on the night of April 14, the abductors stormed the school compound in military uniforms, pretending to be Nigerian soldiers, who had come to rescue the students from a purported attack by Boko Haram. Little did the girls suspect that the gunmen were actually Boko Haram. They lured the students into waiting trucks and drove off in a convoy after shooting some guards and setting buildings ablaze. How the abductors managed to execute such painstaking heinous and profound abduction, successfully, without any intervention from the Nigerian security system remains an enigma in an area under a state of emergency. When the news of the abduction broke out, there was outrage across the country. The families of the abducted girls, who were in boarding house for the May/June West African Senior School Certificate Examinations, could not fathom how their teenage girls had been taken away in such large number in one fell swoop. The authorities in Maiduguri, the state capital and Abuja seemed to be at a loss, not being able to offer any useful explanation. This particular dimension of the abduction has, unfortunately, painted the government and its security agencies as irresponsive. Having failed in the first round, the expectation was that everything would be done by the authorities to rescue the girls. The days of branding Boko Haram as ghosts are over, for ghosts don’t abduct human beings. Nigerians believe that the country has what it takes to give the abductors a hot chase from land and air to rescue the hapless girls. But no action was taken probably against the insinuation that the abduction might be a hoax. That perception seemed to have lulled potent action by the military, which, in any case, needed to receive command before

responding. After three weeks of inaction and the girls were nowhere to be found, President Jonathan, in a media chat on May 4, gave the impression that government did not know the whereabouts of the girls, with an appeal to the parents to cooperate with government by giving the names and pictures of the girls. That proved unsatisfactory. The inaction and the video released by Boko Haram’s leader, Abubakar Shekau, where he stated that the girls would be sold in open market fired global outrage, as different groups of women and activists took to the streets demanding the immediate release of the girls. The social media went viral to propagate the captivating hash tag: BringBackOurGirls. Protests were staged in many Western cities including Washington, D.C., London and New York. Nigerians joined nationwide with protests. The protests aroused world leaders, who rallied to help Nigeria rescue the girls. The United States and United Kingdom are in the forefront of countries which have offered logistical and military support to Nigeria to help search for the students. While the American team would consist of officers specializing in intelligence, investigations, hostage negotiation and information sharing, the British Government would send personnel drawn from various government departments, who will concentrate on planning, coordination and advice to local authorities. France and China have also offered to send specialist experts to share signals and intelligence. President Jonathan’s government has welcomed the foreign assistance. Also, former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, Chairman of the Northern Governors’ Forum, Dr. Babangida Aliyu, former Lagos State Governor, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Gen. Muhammadu Buhari, and Gen. Ibrahim Babangida, among other political leaders, have welcomed the international offer of assistance to Nigeria. Nigerians overwhelmingly support any foreign assistance that would help rescue the abducted students and re-unite them with their families. I don’t agree with the views of our respected jurist, Professor Akin Oyebode, who in The Guardian interview of Saturday, May 10, stated that the acceptance of foreign countries’ offer of assistance “is a surrender of Nigeria’s sovereignty”. Far from it. There is no question of sovereignty in an emergency situation, when the

lives of some 276 students are in danger and someone is offering to assist and you begin to assert sovereignty. Let sovereignty, which is a theoretical concept, save the abducted students. What could be said, instead, is that the acceptance of foreign assistance could be interpreted as the acceptance of failure or inability of Nigeria to save her endangered citizens. We are in daring situation like fire on the mountain. Imagine your house is on fire and someone offers to help put out the fire, you refuse and begin to assert sovereignty. The fire would raze the building. Nigeria is facing such precarious situation; it is not the time to assert sovereignty. Malaysia did not assert sovereignty after the disappearance of its Flight MH370 last March, and over 26 countries rallied to help. The gesture should be commended as a positive step in international relations. Sovereignty should be redefined in the light of burgeoning international terrorism. Without the cooperation of countries, terrorists would annihilate peoples and what they stand for. It was the wrong assertion of sovereignty that emboldened many tyrants in Africa and elsewhere to kill their citizens and ruin their economies without foreign interference. Last month, during the 20th anniversary of the Rwanda massacre, the United Nations Secretary General, Ban Ki-moon, regretted that the world failed to act by stopping the historic genocide in Rwanda, in which thousands of ethnic Tutsis were slaughtered by the Hutus. For more than five years now, Boko Haram has launched ferocious assaults on different parts of the North, including Abuja, with thousands dead and billions of naira property destroyed. The Federal Government appears helpless in handling the situation. Shall we therefore continue to live under the terror of Boko Haram? It is only a person whose daughter was not among the abducted students that would say no to any offer of assistance to rescue the girls. Finally, there is too much talking by government over Boko Haram. In war, you don’t disclose your plans to your enemy because you don’t know theirs. If Boko Haram is going to be routed out in 90 days, it should be secret; you don’t have to disclose it. Only trees stay put when they are told they are going to be cut down. What is needed at this stage is action and not indiscriminate talking that won’t help us.

The imperatives of restructuring Nigeria By Emeka Anyaoku E are here to honour and celebrate the nine undoubted W achievers in service to Nigeria, thereby bringing some pride to Ndi Igbo. There is for each of the awardees we are celebrating tonight an impressive story to tell of their careers and the marks they left in their different fields of endeavour. I am sure that implicit in the organization of this occasion is the desire of Ndi Igbo Lagos to congratulate them on their respective achievements, and also to thank them for their services to our country. Contrary to what any cynic might say, it should be stated that this occasion is in no way an expression of Igbo chauvinism. The individual services of these nine people being celebrated tonight, must be acknowledged as among the bright spots in the currently gloomy picture of our country. In honouring them, I would like to encourage Ndi Igbo Lagos to emphasize the value of their contributions to the country but mindful always of the lesson of a Sierraleonian saying “if your yam white, coveram”, meaning that if there are three or four of you eating yam, and yours is the only white one, you should cover it as you eat. In a multi-ethnic country like ours, it is important that each ethnic group should always be mindful of the sensitivities of the other groups in order to achieve maximum harmony within the country. Lagos is a microcosm of Nigeria; and so I believe that Ndi Igbo in Lagos, under the leadership of Prof Anya O. Anya, seek to be guided by a desire to promote understanding with and among the other ethnic groups in Lagos. Let me briefly comment on the present generally gloomy picture of Nigeria which I mentioned earlier. Although the serious challenges facing our country are well known and frequently reported and commented upon in our media and public statements, I fear that our political leaders, including especially those in the states and the National Assembly, are living in denial of the seriousness of the resultant crisis in which our country is currently involved. To name some of the most serious of the challenges: the raging

violence and insecurity especially in the North East of the country; the challenge of fast-tracking the country’s development in order to deal with unemployment and poverty; and the challenge of reforming the “do-or-die” nature of our politics with all its adverse social consequences. I believe that the root cause of most of our current problems is the inappropriate governance structure which the country has been operating since the military intervention in government in January 1966. The advent of the military into government resulted in the end of the true federalism under which the country was undoubtedly making faster progress in development than it has been doing since then. Therefore, the principal challenge before the current National Conference is to produce a consensus on changing, that is, restructuring the present governance architecture of the country. The Conference will be a monumental failure if it fails to reach agreement on restructuring Nigeria into a truer federation. Such a failure will be an inexcusable loss of an opportunity to put Nigeria and its citizens on the path to greater peace, stability and faster national development. Learning from the experience of other successful federations of diverse peoples around the world, Nigeria should be restructured into a federation of six regions based on the existing six geopolitical zones with substantial parts of the powers now exercised by the Centre devolved to the regions to enable each region to develop at its own pace. The leadership of the Centre should be made less powerful and less attractive as it was at the beginning of our independence when after the elections, the leader of the majority party, Sir Ahmadu Bello, chose to remain the regional Premier of Northern Nigeria and instead sent his lieutenant, Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, to Lagos to serve as the Federal Prime Minister. In negotiating revenue allocation in the new federation, there should be a recognition of the difference between “man-made resources” i.e. resources produced by citizens, and “God-given resources” i.e. minerals both liquid and solid that are found in the geographic space of the country. For equity and the good of the

country as a whole, the revenue from “God-given resources” should be allocated as follows: • With the considerably reduced responsibilities of the Centre, the Federal Government should receive 20/23%; • The areas where the minerals are mined should receive 15/17% as compensation for environmental damage; • The remaining bulk of 60% should be shared EQUALLY among the six regions. The existing States should be retained as Development Areas within the new regions without their present governance paraphernalia i.e. Governors, State Assemblies, Civil service, Judiciary, etc. The benefits of the restructuring will include: • Massive reduction from present total cost of administration (which unlike in other fast emerging countries) is over 70% of the revenue and more funds which the country badly needs for capital development; • An end to the “do-or-die” political competition for the control of the Centre which fans the embers of ethnic and religious sentiments thereby bringing greater peace and stability; • Faster socio-economic development through more viable units and greater focus by regional governments on development; • Greater accountability thereby reducing chances of largescale corruption; • Healthier peer competition and emulation among the regions as obtained in the early years of the country’s independence. In conclusion, our leaders of thought and opinion makers, including the media, must recognize the serious systemic crisis we face, and that the country simply cannot achieve the peace, stability and the rate of development that it needs and deserves without a far-reaching change to the existing order. • Chief Emeka Anyaoku CFR,CON,GCVO, former Secretary General of the Commonwealth, delivered this asChairman’s remarks at Ndi Igbo Lagos Meritorious Award and Grand Reception Night on May 10, 2014.

THE GUARDIAN www.ngrguardiannews.com

Tuesday, May 13, 2014

Opinion Political corruption and rise of the oligarchs (2) By Patrick Dele Cole HE NPN Government was committed to several large projects – iron and steel plants, currency and trade liberalization, shipping, roads, etc. This was true for the Federal Government and the then 19 other state Governments who had made electoral promises. Moreover, price control which was introduced by the previous Government continued; inflation was raging, price of imported food stuffs had to be brought down through the National Supply Company, controls of imports instituted by a regime of licences and further control by Central Bank and Ministry of Finance through the mechanism of Forms A, and Form M, etc. Each bottleneck imposed by Government became a Central point for corruption which was worsened by the granting of import waivers to favoured people. The economy was booming; members of Government garnered for themselves licences, waivers etc – put crudely, they had licences to print money. Anyone who was looking for justification for corruption can easily find it in a civilian administration. And the military was doing just that, itching to return to Government. The Military struck in 1983 – after a successful election and perhaps a determination of the civilian Government of Alhaji Shehu Shagari to fight corruption. That return of Military Government lasted from 1983 to 1999. It produced and “cemented” a new phenomenon in Nigerian corruption and wealth concentration in a few hands and the beginning of a powerful oligarchy of military and civilian “aristocrats” (the juxtaposition of “aristocracy” and “oligarchy” is deliberate because that was what happened in Nigeria). Individuals started chopping off state property, or consolidating companies for monopolies – an entirely new way of wealth accumulation. Our leaders were building up family fortunes, a cursory look at the names of the generals and their friends would confirm this and their grip on the economy. Something called “Nigeria Incorporated” could be identified with all those who had held political power. It was the consolidation of incredible wealth and power in a way never before seen in Nigeria. The advent of civilian political administration in 1999 up till to-day merely consolidated more wealth in fewer groups of individuals owning telecommunication gateways or switching exchanges, oil block concessions, banking and insurance companies of consid-

erable size, international brands in hotels, event centres, shopping malls and franchises – a process not unlike Russia after the collapse of the Soviet Union, when Yeltsin in some drunken stupor auctioned off large state enterprises and companies to few individuals who mostly worked for the Russian KGB, GRU and many other state secret services. Our political elite – senators, the legislators, Governors, etc have continued this consolidation apace – they own even more finance houses, aeroplanes, sea port and airport concessions, etc. The suborning of Government and State property for private use has never been greater and there seems to be no end in sight. The example thus set will only spur later politicians to do the same – unless a rigorous code of conduct is imposed immediately. Every Minister or State Government or legislator sees Government property and processes as legitimate areas for plunder in order to bolster up the oligarchic credentials. It does not take too much imagination to see that such a system is both inevitable and unsupportable. But when did such consideration stop political and ravenous appetites of the oligarchs? Here are some simple examples of how to set up an oligarchy. A Minister arrives as Minister of Transport or Aviation or of Federal Capital; or of Works. The transport ministry has railways, ports, waterways, canals, road etc under it. A great deal of land and property belong to the Ministry. The Minister systematically begins to suborn property belonging to Nigerian Railways, Ports Authority, water ways etc for himself and appointed companies, only yielding to other powerful politicians or military officers who are similarly compensated. The result is the transfer of these properties to companies he and his friends or family have formed; – makes sure that every single thing to be supplied to these entities – uniforms, steel, diesel, cars, etc goes through companies belonging to him and his associates and his friends, if some of the entities are to be privatized or concessioned, they are gobbled up by the oligarch minister and his cohorts who continue in a frenetic ceaseless quest to bring more property and entities under them. The bankers had set up the template for oligarchy. The Managing Director of the bank would lend money to buy a piece of land for a company he owns. That company would borrow money from the bank to develop a property. The bank now leases the property for 10 years, paid up front for the rent which is well over what the company had borrowed for the land and construction. This is replicated over

and over again as each branch is set up; thus some banks have over 300 branches.!! The wife of the Managing Director is responsible for catering for all the staff; she has an agency for travel, entertainment, etc – all feeding off this bank. Shares are paid for on loans from the bank. Some other banks merely declare new shares they divide among themselves. The system works just as well for the Minister. He may decide to recruit staff. The contract for this is offered to the wife of another Minister or strong politician. Event centres are hired and thousands of Nigerians paying X naira apply. Money is made at all levels and each level is a clog in the oligarchy. Same would apply in say, Aviation where large land areas belong to the Ministry; concessions galore exists; only the imagination can stop what is possible when an oligarchic mindset is at play. In agriculture industries, trade, finance, communications, etc these can be substantial play grounds for the oligarchs. Presidents and Governors, Military Officers, Police Officers, Custom Officers, former Ministers of Defence, Federal Capital Authority – have all built up institutions that would forever shore up their families: they have promoted other individuals who own IT, companies, banks, cement factories, petrochemical factories, oil companies, food processing plants and factories, etc. It is probably safe to say that all the billionaires we have in Nigeria today have at one point or the other enjoyed Government patronage by way of massive and continuous import waivers, long tax holidays, port concessions, fertilizer and petrochemical companies, import monopoly of key ingredients of the state, etc. I have heard justification for this from highly placed persons (Presidents, Governors, etc) who argue that all Nigeria needed to succeed economically, was the strategic placing of 10 Nigerians in key industries and businesses and the support by Government of these 10 people: if you look around and you will find them. So, I would not bother with their names I hope someone would devise a new type of monopoly game called spot the Oligarchs. I am sure social media would be able to name these oligarchs. Some Governors have interest in oil, petrochemicals, hotels, massive land holdings, major interest in tax collection companies etc. Whenever political parties meet – these are the Godfathers of the political parties who resolutely refuse to have internal democracy within the parties because, it pays these money bags to finance the parties and choose all the candidates for political office. Both Messrs Presidents and State Governors

have created oligarchs. These creations by the Presidents include Ministers who have attempted to build international hotels at the airports – none has yet materialised. Others have bought international hotels in Abuja. Two bankers, one stocks dealer, belong to a transactional company its directors are part of the usual suspects and they are in everything – fruit drinks, cereals, spaghetti and other food productions, cement etc; another is in data management, yet another in GSM, one is the owner of the ill fated Air Nigeria and the following debacle. Other oligarchs have found other pastures in tank farms, insurance, hotels, publications and so on. Others have benefited from monopoly industries like production of saline solutions for hospitals, manufacturing of injections and other medical equipment. More oligarchs have exploited the Sao Tome oil concession, have benefited from oil transactions in Nigeria from the oil majors, others have real estate companies outside Nigeria from proceeds of money made in Nigeria; a new group is seeking access to the power plants. They are all major clogs in the overall oligarchic system. Hundreds of Nigerians are now operating in Dubai, China, South Africa, the U.S. who were anointed oligarchs or these anointed by political Godfathers here – carrying millions of dollars to their chosen location. And yet all of this is but, scratching the surface. Beneath this is an army of young men and women who prop up the system. A new class of oligarchs has just appeared on the surface. For years NNPC had followed rules which made it extremely difficult for Nigerians to lift crude even when they had both the expertise and like Dr. Eddie Opia, owned tankers. The announcement recently that Nigerian companies would be allowed to lift crude show the present Administration’s stride towards growing its own oligarchs. The favoured companies include Tridax Energy (incorporated in Switzerland in 2010 and started lifting 2011; Tridax OIL AND Gas incorporated in Abuja). Tridax Properties, Mezcor and Linear, AITEO, TALEVERAS ATLANTIC ENERGY who own an operational contract for some of Nigeria Petroleum Exploration Developing Company, Sahara Energy company etc. The largest of these has just signed an oil concession; some others have been lined up as proxies for powerful interest for oil concessions being sold by some International oil Companies – the common thread in all these transactions is that they are all nearly opaque. • Concluded • Ambassador (Dr.) Patrick Dele Cole (OFR) is a Consultant to The Guardian Editorial Board.

Tobacco smuggling and terror By Ikechukwu Orji OBACCO companies and health lobbyists never see eye-to-eye T but on one issue they make strange bedfellows: the issue of smuggling. Both parties, indeed all parties including anti-tobacco advocates and journalists, agree that the smuggling of cigarettes needs to be stamped out in order to protect public health, government revenues and commercial investments. These days there is an even more urgent incentive to stem smuggling – terrorism. Before addressing the link between terrorism and illicit trade in tobacco, there are a few fixed facts we should remind ourselves of. First, smuggling is not a thing of today. The practice has existed for centuries and as long as there are porous borders and corruption, it is likely to continue. Alcohol and tobacco, arguably the most lucrative legal products for smugglers, have been sneaked in and out of countries around the world for well over five hundred years. Secondly, smugglers are not charitable; they do it for profit so as long as an item remains profitable, they will continue to supply it clandestinely. Conversely, once an item becomes unprofitable to smuggle, they will move on to other, more profitable things. One of the most fundamental principles of economics revolves around supply, demand and price. In very basic terms, the higher the demand, the higher the price. Once the legal supply of a product is cut off, demand for contraband versions of the product will rise. This will lead to a profitable jamboree for

smugglers, who will control the supply and thus manipulate leased a paper titled Tobacco and Terror: How Cigarette Smuggling the price and their profit margins. It seems quite obvious that is Funding our Enemies Abroad, in which he highlighted the link legislating legal producers out of existence will leave the sup- between smugglers and international terror. In some instances ply of cigarettes in the hands of smugglers, which will lead to non-terror organisations said to be in support of terror groups current levels of smuggling escalating out of control. are said to channel part of their smuggling profits to fund the The first and second points – that smuggling is a long estab- terror group’s expenses and attacks. Whether these benefactors lished and profitable activity – has led to it becoming a means are sponsoring terror for political or ideological reasons reunclear. that international organised terror groups, crime rings and mains When tobacco companies clamour about smuggling, they are rebel guerrillas have turned to, to finance their activities. They do this either directly, by trafficking the goods, or indirectly, by seen as being protective of their sales revenue, which is underoffering paid protection for other groups carrying out the standable – so would any other legal enterprise that has invested heavily in scientific research and development. But it is not just smuggling. Even the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists about sales and commercial concerns. Smuggling is no longer (ICIJ), which regularly makes clear its anti-tobacco stance, pub- only a matter of government tax revenues or long term public lished a 2009 article titled Terrorism and Tobacco, in which well- health concerns; with the increasing spate of terror attacks known radical groups such as the ‘Real’ IRA, Hamas, Hezbollah, around the world, stemming the illicit trade in tobacco has beAl-Qaeda and the Taliban, as well as lesser known rebel and guer- come a matter of public safety. From Europe to Asia, Africa to the rilla groups were reported to have either direct or indirect links Middle East, no one is safe from terror attacks and we cannot to cigarette smuggling. In the report, an investigator was continue to pretend that it is of no concern to us. It is a shared quoted as saying that “This is one of those few problems that is problem for all sides and as reported in the article by the Interfixable”, noting that contraband can be dealt with because the national Consortium of Investigative Journalists, it is a problem (legitimate) producers and distributors can control the process. that the legitimate producers and distributors can help to solve. The investigator went on to state, “You need to ensure that the Who ever thought that opponents in the tobacco control drama products are being sold through legitimate channels, through – companies, governments, anti-tobacco lobbyists and health legitimate distributors.” campaigners – could one day be joined in a fight against a comThe ways in which terror groups fund their activities are well mon cause? When it comes to cigarette smuggling, it may well known to politicians around the world. In 2007, a Republican become a case of Sleeping with the Enemy. • Orji is a public affairs analyst based in Lagos. member of the US House Committee on Homeland Security re-

Tuesday, May 13, 2014 17

THE GUARDIAN www.ngrguardiannews.com

TheMetroSection Bring Back Our Girls...

Briefs FCT minister loses mum

• Tabitha Girls protest Boko Haram abductions, want to attend school without fear

From Ali Garba, Bauchi HE Federal Capital Territory Minister, Senator Bala Mohammed has lost his mother, Hajiya Aisha Mohammed, at the age of 81. He was the wife of the late District Head of Duguri, Alhaji Mohammed Yusuf. Hajiya Aisha Mohammed ,who recently returned from Saudi Arabia for lesser Hajj, died at her residence after a protracted illness. Funeral prayers were held at the Emir of Bauchi palace led by the Chief Imam of Bauchi Alhaji Bala Baba Inna, and she has since been buried in Bauchi, according to Islamic rites. A family member Alhaji Hudu Duguri, who confirmed the death, saying that Hajiya Aisha left behind four children among them are Bala Mohammed, Alhaji Adamu Yahya, District Head of Duguri, Hajiya Asmau, Hajiya Hauwau and 31 grand children.

Ogun State to mark Community Day today CTIVITIES marking the first A ever Ogun State Ministry of Community Development and

The protesting girls From Oludare Richards, Abuja THE demand for the return of the more than 200 girls kidnapped by Boko Haram insurgents has spread across the world. From almost all major cities in Nigeria to foreign nations as far-flung as Australia, South Africa, Kenya, United Kingdom among others, the demand has continued that the girls be released unhurt to their family and friends. There have also been protests by different groups and individuals with titles and themes such as: “Free our Chibok Girls”, “Bring Back Our Girls” (BBOG) with many registered on the social media, gaining massive followership. That was before Abuja, the Federal Capital was shaken by an alleged hijack of a school bus by armed men, which fortunately turned out to be a botched armed robbery. There were no children in the bus and the robbers were shortly after, arrested by the police. Yet, the incident further fuelled fears about the safety of school children, which had grown, with the abduction of the girls in Chibok. Now, children from a small commu-

nity in Mpape, Abuja have joined the protests against the Chibok abductions. They are called Tabitha Girls Club (TGC) with moral and financial support from the Tabitha Cumi Foundation, a non-governmental organisation with UN ECOSOC special consultative status. The Tabitha Girls Club maintains its aim of giving support to girls in underprivileged communities an opportunity of sharing experiences, discussing issues peculiar to them and learning new ideas and skills under one umbrella through mentorship. The peaceful protest was conducted with posters and banners that read: “Bring Back Our Girls, we plead.” A member of the girls,’ club who gave her name as Husaina, told The Guardian: “We condemn what Boko Haram has done to our sisters. We want our girls back. This situation is becoming a discouragement to children. Some now say things like: ‘They might kidnap me in school if I go there’, giving excuses, missing classes. So, we plead to the government to encourage our education”. Another member of the club who

gave her name as Maryam, said: “We are too young to marry, we are not ready for marriage. We want to be educated, we want a future for ourselves” Yet another member, Wuse said: “I felt angry and sad about the actions of these Boko Haram people and decided to join this protest hoping for a turn in events because it could have been anyone else, including myself. I have always walked to school before these occurrences but now I take a bus for my safety. It is not fair that we should be living in fear”. The Executive Director of Tabitha Cumi Foundation, Mrs. Tayo Erinle, also expressed her feelings about the abductions, its effects on the academic interests of both children and parents throughout the nation and the need for governmental and parental support for the education, welfare and security of the children of Nigeria. “It is very important that the advocacy for the release and safe return of the Chibok girls is made as prominent as possible. Our voices of displeasure should resound firmly throughout the nation by every means possible all over the world.

Fear is taking root in the hearts of children and we now have to worry about security in academic institutions. “There is much work to be done to get their hearts back to school because it is one thing getting them back to school and another thing making sure that they stay in school and are retained in school. This kind of happenings brings discouragement to them. Like the girls have spoken, they have questions like: ‘Are we safe?’ ‘Can we go to school?’ We just pray and plead for the Chibok girls”, Mrs. Erinle said. She continued: “A lot needs to be done in every aspect, the experiences of the victims; the children, the parents involved… It is better imagined than experienced. Security is now the job of every citizen. Children and girls will have to be encouraged, protected and supported by family and friends, their neighbours, communities and the entire nation. People should speak out;,people are afraid, children are afraid to go to school, even afraid to move freely. The help of the government is needed though, but there are key security actions we must take ourselves”.

Stranded Nigerian girls in Abidjan seek assistance to return home Nigerian girls curSjanEVEN rently stranded in Abidhave called on the Nigerian Embassy in that country to assist them return to their families. Speaking to the News Agency of Nigerian (NAN) at the embassy premises yesterday, the girls said they were brought to Cote d’Ivoire by three persons they identified as Dele, Rose and Cynthia. They claimed that they were provided accommodation in a brothel in Sikensi, an outskirt of Abidjan, and made to serve as sex work-

ers. Narrating their ordeal, one of them, Miss Blessing Elohor, 18, from Delta, said they were rescued by leaders of the Nigerian community in Cote d’Ivoire. ``I was showed a picture of a `white man’ who, they said, owns a shop in Abidjan; they said I would serve as a waiter in his shop. ``I was surprised when they showed me a room and gave me condoms. They refused us making calls or even having discussions with people,’’ she said. Also speaking to NAN, Tracy

Ekuagbe, 17, said she was told that she was being taken to Germany, and was promised a paid job on arrival. She described her current experience in Cote d’Ivoire as a clear case of slavery and intimidation. ``I started suspecting them when they took us to a motor park. We did not board an aircraft, and I know you do not travel to Europe by road. ``They always had stories to tell us until we got to Abidjan and was taken to a brothel where I ended up

staying for three months,’’ she said. Others stranded Nigerians in Cote d’Ivoire gave their names as Esumei Blessing, Joy Omojevwe, Tessy Obawangi, Esther John and Daivy John. The Secretary-General, Nigerian Community in Cote d’Ivoire, Mr. Collins Chiaha, told NAN that the community would continue to support relevant authorities to tackle the menace of trafficking Nigerians. He said that the issue of trafficking in persons was

They claimed that they were provided accommodation in a brothel in Sikensi, an outskirt of Abidjan, and made to serve as sex workers embarrassing to the image of Nigeria. ``I urge government to evolve ways of tightening border security to ensure that under-aged girls are no longer forced out of their homes into foreign lands,’’ he said.

Cooperatives, “Ogun State 2014 Community Day” will hold from today to Thursday with the Theme “Security and Community; Emerging Trends and New Strategies” in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital. A release signed by the State Commissioner for Community Development and Cooperatives, Chief Samuel Aiyedogbon, stated the Governor, Ibikunle Amosun, would declare the event open at 10.00a.m. on Tuesday at the June 12 Cultural Centre Kuto, Abeokuta. The Press Officer of the Community Development and Cooperative, Mr. Adeniyi Akinbobola, said the event would have the former Commissioner of Police and Special Adviser to the Governor on Security, Mr. Yinka Balogun as the Guest Lecturer, while parade and salute would be given to the Governor by Community Development Associations (CDAs) at M.K.O. Abiola Stadium on May 15, 2014. It will end with a dinner and awards night at June 12 Cultural Centre Banquet Hall Kuto, Abeokuta, at 5.00pm on Thursday, 15, 2014.

Missing person R. Jacob Sunday Osezua M of No. 7, Alafia Street, off Gasline, Matogun, Ogun State has been reported missing. He is 65 years old, light in complexion and 5ft 11 inches tall. Police reports, read: “He left on Wednesday, April 30, for church and has since not returned. He speaks English and Edo languages fluently and all efforts to trace him have proved abortive.” Any information on his whereabouts should be reported to the nearest police

Osezua

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18 Tuesday, May 13, 2014

Briefs Tributes to Mimiko’s wife’s mother HE death has occurred of Chief (Mrs.) Felicia Modupe Adeniyi, mother of the wife of Ondo State Governor, Mrs. Olukemi Mimiko. Sympathizers to the Government House to commiserate with the family include the Deputy Governor, Alhaji Alli Olanusi, members of the State Executive Council, chairmen and members of boards and parastatals, Director General of Technical Aids Corps, Dr. Pius Osunyikanmi, clergymen and top government officials among others. The Commissioner for Economic Planning and Budget, Mr. Akin Adaramola, described the demise of Mrs. Adeniyi as a great loss but, however, noted that she lived a fulfilled life. The wife of the Chief of Staff, Mrs. Iyabo Ademujimi, noted that nobody could question God, adding that the deceased lived a Godly life and left enviable legacies for the family. In her response, the daughter and wife of Ondo State governor, Mrs. Olukemi Mimiko described her late mother as loving, caring and accommodating, whose demise would be felt by members of her immediate and extended families. The Ondo State governor, Dr Olusegun Mimiko, described her as a wonderful and loving mother, who was dear and close to him, saying that her demise was shocking. Mimiko, who also described her as a strong companion of her husband, Chief Isaac Adeniyi, expressed optimism that she had gone to rest in the bosom of her Lord.

Uyo hosts Lions Club’s 50th anniversary From Inemesit Akpan-Nsoh, Uyo RENOWNED humanitarian A and charity organization, the Lions Club International, Uyo Region, Akwa Ibom State, has stressed the need to inculcate values such as selfless and humanitarian services in the lives of youths, noting that, such would curb corruption among the youths. This view was expressed by the Chairperson, Local Organizing Committee of the 50th anniversary of the organization in Nigeria, Mrs. Helen Ekefre. The event holds between May 14- May 18 in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. She pleaded with Nigerian leaders to invest in youth development, adding that failure to do so would always lead to restiveness, social disharmony and criminal activities. She said the need for youth development led to the club’s priority on restoration of sights for the blind, formation of its youth wing, Leo Club in 1957, to inculcate the values of selfless service in them. “She said what informed the Club’s desire to bring its 2014 yearly meeting to Uyo was to encourage other state governments to render selfless service to the people they govern, just as it was the case in Akwa Ibom. Ekefre called on all Nigerian leaders to be selfless while serving the people who elect them into office, adding that the club, has over the years, been engaged in selfless service to humanity, including the treatment of measles; cataract prevention/treatment; major eyes surgery; caring for motherless babies; sinking of boreholes in rural communities; funding physically-challenged schools, among others.

‘Otedola was a fulfilled man,’ says Ojikutu • Lagos Speaker pays condolence visit By Wole Oyebade

ORMER Deputy Governor of FOjikutu Lagos State, Sinotu Aderoju has described the late Michael Otedola as a fulfilled politician, despite the short duration of his administration as state governor (1992-1993). Ojikutu, who was Otedola’s deputy, said he was focused on impact than number of years spent in power. Besides, Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Adeyemi Ikuforiji has also described Otedola as the first citizen that demonstrated love to the citizens. Ojikutu, during a condolence visit to family of the deceased in Epe, observed that the short tenure restored peace and stability to Lagos. According to her: “It was the pe-

Otedola

riod of June 12 and the spirit was high. It is likely Lagos would have

been a deserted city or a no-man’s land, if not because of the way we handled it, bringing stability into the system,” she recalled. On why Otedola did not go back to politics at the end of the military era, Ojikutu said, “he saw himself as a fulfilled man.” Continuing, she said: “And, don’t forget it was a disappointing departure because we were not expected to be thrown out unceremoniously. But having played the role he could, he decided to stay out of lime-light.” “He was an educationist and philanthropist. He tried his best within the limit that the military allowed his administration to function. He lived a good life and had the interest of Lagosians at heart,” she said. Reacting to questions on the state of the nation, she complained of insincerity and dishonesty among public officeholders, adding that, “everybody today has a hidden

agenda.” She said: “People have now become power drunk. It is not the service of the nation anymore but what to acquire and it is sad. I don’t see any future for our children the way we are going.” Eulogising the demise of Otedola, Ikuforiji said: “The man from Epe corner, demonstrated the biblical injunction that says, love your neighbour as yourself and also have the fear of God. He was a great inspiration particularly to us.” “In his characteristics, he was a godfather to everybody, it would have been difficult to say he was a godfather to somebody.” Ikuforiji added that Otedola made an impact in his own town, Epe, and the state at large. “He did that without any advertorial in the newspapers or television. Despite the fact that it was the time of military era, he still did every-

Construction workers assault journalist, vandalise his property By Yetunde Ayobami Ojo ONSTRUCTION workers at C the ongoing Giwa-Olambe Road project in Ifo Local Council of Ogun State assaulted the Law Editor of Nigeria Dayspring Newspaper, Mr. Adeyemi Adebanjo when he was returning home from work. In a petition addressed to the Ogun State Commissioner of Police, Ikemefuna R. Okoye, dated 8th April, 2014, and signed by his counsel, Mr. Wale Ogunade read that on March 12, 2014, Mr. Adebanjo was returning home from work when he became a victim of the lawless action of an officer of the law as well as some young men who were staff members of VEABO Construction Company Limited. The lawyer stated that due to the ongoing road project, the workers had blocked the only access road to Mr. Adebanjo’s residence, which made it impossible for the journalist to access his place of abode. He continued that an alter-

native road put in place at the commencement of the project was on the day in question impassable owing to a broken down vehicle on the road. “After unsuccessful attempts at navigating through the makeshift road diversion and having no other option, Mr. Adebanjo reportedly returned to the main road. His entreaties to the workers to allow him navigate through reportedly fell on deaf ears. This later snowballed into altercation between the workers and Mr. Adebanjo.” He explained that a roadside petty trader who roasted plantain a few metres from the site was said to have advised the journalist to explore a third option. Ogunade further pointed out that, his client heeded the trader advice, and had actually travelled more than two kilometres from the construction site when he suddenly noticed a white Hilux pick-up as well as two men on commercial motorcycle popularly called Okada, giving him a hot chase.

One of the Okada riders, who was carrying a gun, reportedly fired several shots into the air. “As a result of his confused state of mind, and while attempting to escape from the scene, Mr. Adebanjo’s car got stuck in a ditch. What reportedly followed was a pummel of the journalist by the workers aided by the gun wielding Okada man, whom he later identified as Constable Aliyu Alawode, a policeman serving with the Ajuwon Police Station. He was in mufti as at the time of the incident.” The petition further pointed out that apart from inflicting bodily injuries on the complainant, his car was savagely damaged as the windshield, side glasses as well as side mirror were smashed. He also claimed that a number of valuable items were pilfered from the vehicle by the rampaging workers. He stated that “the matter was reported at the Ajuwon Police Station same day, however, due to an alleged lack-

adaisical handling of the issue by top officer at the station, Mr. Adebanjo decided to petition the State Command of the force.” “At the completion of investigation by operatives at the State Command, a new twist was introduced to the issue as the second-in-command to the Commandant of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), CSP Jude Azuka, pointedly told Mr. Adebanjo that he (Adebanjo) should rather be held liable for the alleged criminal act.” He stated that “Mr. Azuka’s reason was that the complainant ought to have returned to where he was coming from on the day in question on being told that he could not be allowed to navigate through the road. “My friend, I will hold you culpable for the crime. I will find something to hook you with,” CSP Azuka reportedly told the bewildered journalist. The case file was actually taken to Mr. Azuka for his en-

dorsement for onward transmission to court for criminal charges to be preferred against the workers when he decided to do a volte-face and introduce a fresh angle to the issue. Meanwhile, for quite inexplicable reasons, Mr. Azuka asked parties to excuse themselves and resolve the issue, failing which he would not hesitate to slam charges on the complainant. However, speaking through his counsel, Mr. Adebanjo observed that the men alleged to have carried out the nefarious act never denied involvement, even before Mr. Azuka, and that it was curious for the police officer to have constituted himself into a court of law. “We are waiting for Mr. Azuka’s threat to fish out what he wanted to fish out to implicate our client. We will wait till that time”, Mr. Ogunade stated. The case was yet to be charged to court as at the time of filing this report.

Police arrest sergeant for shooting innocent civilian By Odita Sunday POLICE Sergeant (Sgt). Otene Goodwin, attached to the Area E Command of the Lagos State Command at the weekend shot dead one Onyema Edewor The policeman with Force Number 355272 has been arrested by the Area E Commander, Assistant Commissioner Dan Okoro under the order of the State Commissioner of Police (CP) Alhaji Umar Manko. The Guardian reliably gathered that the victim was shot while he was towing a vehicle. The trigger-happy policeman had ordered the driver of the towing vehicle to stop. And for disobeying him, he opened fire and shot him in the arm. It was further gathered that the deceased was left in the pool of his blood without being attended to. A senior Police officer at the Area E Command told The Guardian that when the news got to the Commander, Okoro, he raced to the scene and rushed the man to the hospital but he was confirmed dead by a medical doctor. According to the doctor, he died of excessive bleeding. The State Police Spokesperson, Ngozi Braide, a Deputy

The late Edewor Superintendent of Police, said the incident occurred at the weekend along Alakija area of FESTAC Town, Lagos. The Police image-maker said Sgt. Otene had abandoned his duty post as the Station Guard at the Area ‘E’ Command and left for Alakija area where the unfortunate incident occurred. She said: “The sergeant is already in police custody and the circumstances sur-

The vehicle that was towed rounding the shooting incident are being investigated”. “The Nigeria Police is a disciplined organisation and will not tolerate any act of indiscipline from their men and officers. “The Commissioner of Police Lagos State, CP Umar A. Manko wishes to use this medium to appeal to members of the public to remain calm and maintain peace as justice will definitely be

done. He also assured the deceased’s family that investigation would be concluded in good time. However, the Commissioner of Police has paid a condolence visit to Onyema’s family. Manko, who was represented by the Area ‘E’ Commander, Dan Okoro, assured the family of the deceased that their son’s killer was on

his own and would face the full wrath of the law. Okoro, who was accompanied by Ngozi Braide, said: “We are assuring you that justice must be done. We won’t say because he is our own and cover him. No way! We must do the right thing and we will carry the family and the members of the public along with our investigation.”

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Tuesday, May 13, 2014

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BUSINESS Tuesday, May 13, 2014

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Business Govt earns N630.14b from fuel tax, royalties By Roseline Okere HE Federal Government T earned about N630.14 billion from petroleum profit tax, royalties and domestic crude oil and gas sales in February, according to data released by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). This exceeded the crude oil earnings in the preceding month.

The CBN, which made this disclosure in its latest monthly economic report, stated that the increase in oil receipts relative to the preceding month was attributed to the increase in receipts from crude oil and gas exports, and royalties, domestic sales of crude oil and gas sales and other oil revenue.

According to the apex bank, crude oil production, including condensates and natural gas liquids in February was estimated at 1.86 million barrels per day (mbd) or 52.08 million barrels for the month. It stated: “Crude oil export was estimated at 1.41 million barrels per day (mbd) or 39.48 million barrels during

the month. The average price of Nigeria’s reference crude, the Bonny Light (370 API), was estimated at $111.40 per barrel, indicating an increase of 1.1 per cent above the level in the preceding month. “Crude oil export was estimated at 1.41 mbd or 39.48 million barrels for the month. This represented a decrease of 4.1 per cent when

compared with 1.47 mbd or 45.57 million barrels recorded in the preceding month. Deliveries to the refineries for domestic consumption remained at 0.45 mbd or 12.6 million barrels during the review month. “At an estimated average of $111.40 per barrel, the price of Nigeria’s reference crude, the Bonny Light, rose by 1.1 per

President of Chevron Africa and Latin America Exploration and Production, Ali Moshiri (right); Group Managing Director/CEO, UBA Plc, Phillips Oduoza; Technical Business Development, Chevron and Latin America Production Company, Ali Azizi; General Manager, UBA New York, Rafiq Bengali; Divisional Head, Oil and Gas, UBA Plc, Razaq Shittu, at the cocktail reception hosted by Chevron Africa and Latin America, during the offshore technology conference in Houston, Texas,USA,on Thursday.

Dangote strategises to crash cement price From John Akubo,Lokoja GAINST the background of the skyrocketing price of cement in the market, Dangote Cement Plc has released into the market, a supply of nine million tons of the commodity, to stem the price hike. President of Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote made this disclosure when the President of Tanzania, Dr Jakaya Kikwete paid a facility visit to the 10.25 million mtpa capacity Obajana Cement plant in Kogi State, at the weekend. Dangote, who had earlier told the company’s shareholders during its 2013 yearly general meeting that his company had not increased cement price, went ahead to publish the approved prevailng price. He reasoned that low production, leading to reduced market supply as a result of either turnaround maintenance of its plant or shortage of gas must have

Tanzania’s President visits firm’s plant at Obajana been capitalized on by profiteers to shortchange members of the public by deliberately hiking the price. Said he: “The recent scarcity of cement in Nigeria is due to low production between January and March due to the yearly turnaround maintenance of the company’s plants at Ibeshe and Obajana. “We have released nine million tons of cement into the market to stem the tide of scarcity and bring down the price”. Therefore, Dangote told newsmen at Obajana that with full production attained, his company quickly supplied about nine million tons into the market to arrest the high price since he believed that once the supplies increased and even beating demand, the price as of necessity would come

down. The Group President and the Tanzanian President flew into Obajana at the close of the World Economic Forum held between May 7 and 9 in Abuja. Dangote said the visiting Tanzanian President was at the plant to see things himself as the company was building three million metric tons of cement plant in that country. He said the cost of the plant is $600 million and that construction work has reached 30 per cent completion. The plant when completed is expected to be officially opened in 2015. President Kikweto said he took time from the meeting in Abuja to see things for himself and he was convinced Dangote is a good business partner his country could trust describing what he saw as “wonder-

ful.” Recently,the Kenyan Deputy Prime Minister, Wiliam Ruto visited the Obajana plant as Dangote Cement is building a three million metric ton capacity cement factory worth $600 million in his country. Dangote Cement Plc has three plants in Nigeria. They are Obajana Cement plant which produces about 10.25 million metric tons; the Ibese plant which produces six million metric tons; and the Gboko plant which produces about four million metric tons. Beside Tanzania and Kenya, Dangote Cement Plc is also building a 2.5 million metric tons cement plant in Ethiopia and 1.5million metric tons capacity in Zambia, as well as import and landing facilities along the coast of West Africa.

cent above the level in the preceding month. The average prices of other competing crudes, namely the West Texas Intermediate at $95.00 per barrel; the U.K Brent at $109.77 per barrel; and the Forcados at $112.26 per barrel, also showed similar trend as the Bonny Light. “The average price of OPEC’s basket of eleven crude streams, at $105.38 per barrel, indicated a marginal increase of 0.6 per cent over the level in the preceding month. It, however, showed a decrease of 6.5 per cent when compared with the level of $112.75 per barrel recorded in the the corresponding period of 2013. The report put the world crude oil output in February 2014 at 91.87 million barrels per day (mbd), while demand was estimated at 91.46 million barrels per day (mbd)), representing an excess supply of 0.41 mbd, compared with 90.44 and 90.00 mbd supplied and demanded, respectively, in the preceding month. Provisional data indicated that total non-oil export earnings, at $426.46 million, rose by 12.5 per cent above the level in the preceding month. CBN said that the development reflected, largely, the 32.3 and 5.6 per cent increase in manufactured and industrial sectors, respectively. A breakdown by sectors showed that proceeds of manufactured, industrial, agriculture, minerals and food products sub-sectors stood at $246.12, $121.82, $33.79, $17.32 and $7.5, million, respectively. The transport sector recorded no receipts during the review month.

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BUSINeSS Tuesday, May 13, 2014

Archbishop, Diocese of Lagos Mainland, Church of Nigeria, Professor Dada Akinde (left) former Governor, Central Bank of Nigeria, Chief Joseph Sanusi and Chairman, Honeywell Group, Oba Otudeko at the post-AGM stakeholders and investors engagement forum organised by Chams PLC in Lagos

‘Airports remodeling projects not abandoned’ By Ibe Uwaleke eDerAl Airports F(FAAN) Authority of Nigeria has debunked the reports that the remodeling projects of Nigerian airports initiated by the ousted minister, Stella Oduah, have been abandoned by contractors due to lack of funds. In a statement issued yesterday by the coordinating general manager of aviation parastatals, Yakubu Dati, FAAN said its attention has been drawn to “misleading and mischievous reports in some sections of the media alleging that the Airport remodeling Project has been abandoned because the Permanent Secretary in the Federal Ministry of Aviation had refused to release funds to contractors handling the project, which she considered a non-priority project”. Tht statement reads further: “We hereby wish to emphasise that the Airport remodeling Project, designed by the Federal

Government to modernise all airport terminals in the country, in line with International standards and best practices, has not been abandoned. We also consider as uncharitable and malicious, the allegation that the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Aviation, Dr Jamila Shu’ara was “sitting on the funds” meant for a project that she knows President Goodluck

Jonathan himself considers top priority in his Transformation Agenda in the aviation industry.” Dati said the seeming lull in the execution of the project in some of our airports was caused by the late passage of the 2014 budget as a result of which releases for the projects were delayed. He stated that now that the 2014 budget has been passed and FAAN wish to

assure the public that work on the project will be accelerated as soon as fund is released to the affected contractors. “The Supervising Minister of Aviation, Dr Samuel Ortom has also assured Nigerians that work on the remodeling project would be completed on schedule, during his recent tour of some of the projects across the country,” Dati reas-

Coca-Cola to close two russian juice plants as market shrinks OCA-COlA Co is closing C two of its four fruit juice plants in russia in

response to falling demand, putting at risk hundreds of jobs in a business which the U.S. company had bought for $276 million four years ago. The company will close the two plants run by its Nidan unit on June 1 and transfer some of their capacity to the other juice unit, Multon, before the

year-end, spokesman Vladimir Kravtsov said yesterday. The plants being closed are located in Novosibirsk in Siberia and in the Moscow region. Some of the unit’s 1,000 staff will be offered jobs at Multon, Kravtsov added. “The juice market fell by five per cent last year and the performance of Nidan was worse than the market,” said Kravtsov, adding

the company had been considering the move for some time and made the closure decision at the end of last year. Coca-Cola bought Nidan, then the fourth-biggest juice maker in russia, in 2010. Multon, which it acquired in 2005, has two plants with a combined production capacity of more than 790 million litres a year. The russian juice market fell by 6 percent year-onyear in volume terms in January-September 2013, according to market researchers Nielsen. In addition to falling market volumes, Coca-Cola and its rival PepsiCo are faced with increased competition from local russian brands. The decision also coincides with an economic slowdown in russia. Having started to shrink in the first quarter this year, the economy is on the brink of recession, in large part because of capital outflows and declining investments resulting from Moscow’s involvement in the Ukraine crisis. Based on euromonitor data, Coca-Cola had a 23.5 per cent share of the russian juice market, worth an estimated $4.6 billion in 2013, while PepsiCo had 35.5 percent. That was down from 24.4 per cent and 37.2 per cent respectively in 2012, while local producers Sady Pridonya, Sunfruit-Trade as well as France’s lactalis all increased their market shares last year. Kravtsov said Nidan accounted for around one third of Coca-Cola’s juice production in russia.

BUSINESS Tuesday, May 13, 2014 23

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Cash-less policy: NIBSS predicts increase in POS transaction volume T Boosts capacity in readiness for transition

By Helen Oji

HE Nigerian Inter-Bank Settlement System Plc (NIBSS) has expressed optimism that the forth-coming transition to cash-less program in July, 2014, would boost the volume of transactions in Point of sale (POS), assuring that the bank has enhanced its capacity in readiness to the programme. Besides, NIBSS explained that the new Business Activity Monitoring tools introduced by the bank would enhance bank’s operational efficiency, as it has the

capacity to monitor multiple services. Speaking at a breakfast forum in Lagos at the weekend, the Executive Director, Technology &Operations, Niyi Ajao, said: “We have close to two million POS transactions on a monthly basis currently and as soon as the cashless extend to other parts of the country, we expect the figure to double in the next six months.

With the trends in other countries that have done cashless, one can easily project how many POS you are expecting in the next six months. “We have done proper scaling: the servers, what specification and size, the network. In fact, every party in the system has really enhanced capacity believing the volume would come up and we don’t want it to catch up with

us by surprise,” he said. On the newly introduced application, the Executive Director, Business Development of the bank, Mrs Christabel Onyejekwe, explained that in preparatory for the transition to cashless program, the bank has put measures in place to ensure that all cards issued in Nigeria can be tracked in any part of the world. She pointed out that the

SON impounds 15 trucks of substandard goods By Femi Adekoya IFTEEN heavy-duty trucks and containers stuffed with assorted products that are sub-standard have been intercepted and seized by the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) in Lagos. The seized vehicles were conveying assorted imported products ranging from auto parts, head lamps, motor cycle types, Elepaq gasoline generators, water pumps, motor spare parts, brake pads, screen/security doors, DVD, bulbs, tyres, gear light and so on. Conducting newsmen round the seized vehicles on Wednesday, SON’s Head of Inspectorate and Compliance, Engr. Bede Obayi disclosed that SON officials at various points following a tip off intercepted the vehicles. Obayi said the products have been seized due to nonconformity of the products and import documents. He noted that further investigations was been be conducted by the agency’s in form of laboratory tests and standard requirements He explained that some of the imported goods carried SON’s labels though without certification or the agency’s Conformity Assessment Programme SONCAP registration on them, meaning that they have been smuggled into the country without the importers doing the right thing. Again, the original manufacturers did not make some of the products even as almost all the confiscated products were from China. According to Obayi, the Director General of SON, Dr. Joseph Odumodu gave importers enough time for eproduct registration as well as to obtain SONCAP certificate, regretting that unscrupulous elements are bent on endangering lives and property by shipping in fake and counterfeit products into the country. According to Engr. Obayi, some of the importers or agents of the impounded products have been on the run because “they know what they have done.” We have said it times without number that if you want to import, please come to SON for guidelines and procedures,” he declared. He warned that the agency would not allow unpatriotic people and economic saboteurs to circumvent the federal government’s auto policy of ensuring safety of lives on the nation’s highways by good and quality auto parts. Obayi regretted that the agency has been operating only at airports and land borders, following its exit from the ports due to government’s direc-

tive on some agencies to quit the ports, adding that most of the sub-standard goods come through the seaports. He disclosed that most of the seized products do not need further test to prove their fakeness, maintaining that

they will be destroyed by the agency “any moment from now in the presence of the media.” The importers, we gathered, have formed the habit of faking the agency’s certification logos and labels like the inscription of SON-

CAP ISO9001 on the products without SON’s knowledge. It would be recalled that the agency has since reenforced its zero-tolerance campaign against fake and sub-standard products in the country.

application is a robust solution that enables the user to have a wider visibility of transactions simultaneously in more than one bank. She added that the solution was designed to capture high performance and process large-scale data loads to produce intelligence at the appropriate time. Onyejekwe identified other features of the application to include; access real-time information anytime anywhere through an internet connection (i.e. NIBSS-Bank VPN connection), access for multidisciplinary bank teams, access to dashboards of banks activity per service and receiving alerts from fall out of the thresholds directed to operational and management teams. She pointed out that there was a need for proper monitoring of transaction card, as it enables the bank to react promptly to events, predict the trends, as well as alert

teams instantaneously to solve problems. “We want to sell a tool which the banks would for their day to day activity monitoring for their transactions on electronic channel to be able to foretell what is going on and arrest all the issues arising from that. NIBSS is a shared service infrastructure that means we can see all systems every where so long as they are connected to NIBSS, on like the banks that will see segregated transactions on their own platform, they may not have a wider visibility. “Ours is more robust and more on line real time. Here every five minutes, the solution tells you what is going on and you will be able to track your transactions more even in other banks. The antfraud solution we are putting in place attempts to arrest possible fraudulent transactions with cards so long as it is a Nigeria card.” She added.

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BUSINESS Tuesday, May 13, 2014

Access Bank’s visa 2014 promo winners emerge By Faith Oparaugo IvE persons have emerged winners in the Access Bank Plc’s visa 2014 FIFA World cup promotion, winning an allexpense paid trip for two to travel to Brazil. The draw, which took place at the bank’s corporate office in Lagos, saw Akinyelure Bimbo, Ewo valentine Junior, Sale Ibrahim Ladan, Anthony Ayeni Oluwaseun and Chigbo Ebuka Okwudili, emerging winners. Speaking at the ceremony, the Head, Card Products, Justin Ijeh, said the promotion was designed to increase card activation and usage, thereby impacting positively on its reveniue base. He explained that the promotion was also designed to increase product awareness, patronage and revenue on the visa Card platform. According to him, the bank sees this an opportunity to deliver to customers its brand promises and to reward them for using its brand channels. “It will engender loyalty, increase top of the wallet effect during the promotion period and provide a unique platform for Access Bank to connect with potential clients,” Ijeh said. Beside the free tickets, Ijeh pointed out that the other packages included in the all expenses paid trip are “Meet and greet service upon arrival at the airport in Brazil; daily breakfast; group activity/tour on day three of the programme; and off-site dinner on day three of the programme.

Chief Executive Officer, Newlord Nigeria Limited, Vishal Daryanani (left); Chief Executive Officer, Carlisle Nigeria Limited, Shade Animashaun; and Executive Director, Sterling Bank Plc, Abubakar Suleiman, at the Small and Medium Enterprises seminar organised by Sterling Bank in Lagos, on Friday

Ondo Assembly to tackle dispute between firm, groups From Niyi Bello, Akure CTING on a petition subA mitted to it by aggrieved stakeholders who are against the composition of the executive membership of the Ilaje Regional Development Council (IRDC), a body set up to manage the bilateral agreement between oil-producing communities in Ondo State coastline and the American oil giant, Chevron Nigeria Limited (CNL) on oil exploration issues, the State House of Assembly has summoned all parties for a resolution of the matter. The IRDC, which is the operating arm of the Global Memorandum of Understanding (GMoU) saddled with implementing the agreements maintains good community relations between the multinational oil company and the host communities through the

execution of community development projects and provision of social and economic supports to residents of the areas. The list of the executive members, who have a fixed tenure and was compiled by the paramount ruler of the Ugbo-Ilaje, the only oil-bearing section of the larger Ilaje nation, Oba Fredrick Obateru Akinruntan, was rejected by a section of the coastline communities who forwarded a petition to the legislative house. In the petition sent to the House Committee on the Ondo State Oil-Producing Development Commission (OSOPADEC) and signed by eleven leaders representing various aggrieved communities, the petitioners alleged that the names which were sent to the oil commission and later submitted to the oil company, did not emanate from the communities.

The petitioners contended that the GMoU was community-driven and did not need the input of government or traditional institution before its executive could be constituted stressing that the standard practice was for the leadership to emerge from the inputs of the various communities. Alleging that the Ugbo monarch unilaterally picked the names without consultation with relevant stakeholders, the petitioners said the development had shown alleged connivance among the palace of Olugbo, the state government and OSOPADEC to ensure that their cronies were chosen to represent the people on the board of the IRDC. But reacting to the development, Ugbo Council of Chiefs and Elders in a letter to the Acting Speaker of the House, faulted the invitation extend-

Mikano, Schneider sign partnership deal O engender effective business synergy, Mikano International Limited and Schneider Electric have signed a Memorandum of Understanding which would enable both companies to leverage on their respective areas of strength for their mutual benefits. It will also enable a stronger and broader diversification in energy and automation management. Under the terms of the agreement, Mikano will sell and distribute the full complement of Schneider Electric’s world class low voltage electrical distribution solutions using its extensive geographical spread across Nigeria. The low voltage products consist of transformers, medium voltage circuit breakers, distribution boards among others. The agreement will also enable Mikano grow its business portfolio and benefit from Schneider Electric’s products and solutions especially for its own needs in generator control panels and sys-

tems. The signing ceremony, which was done in Lagos by Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, Mikano International Limited, Mofid Karameh and Country President, Schneider Electric, Marcel Hochet, was also witnessed by officials of both organisations as well as the Consul General of France, Francois Sastourne. According to the Managing Director, Mikano I n t e r n a t i o n a l Limited,Christian Farine, the products range will fit the full market requirements in basic and in advance features for low voltage products as well as a full range in medium voltage products. “These products will be added to the already existing quality products distributed by Mikano, who will ensure availability of Schneider Electric products across the country through our different branches in Lagos, Port Harcourt, Abuja and Kano. Mikano sales team will be available to pro-

vide technical support for all questions related to the Schneider Electric products”, he said. Describing the partnership as a welcome development, he said it would provide powerful strategically-related values and amplify their sales and technical network. “It is to provide our valued customers satisfactory solutions for their power requirements with quality products at competitive pricing and committed to maintaining customer satisfaction by consistently meeting and exceeding their expectations”, he said. The Country President, Schneider Electric, Marcel Hochet also lauded the technical expertise of Mikano, saying the partnership will quite enjoy the enormous talents and huge network of Mikano which eventually will bring value proposition to all end users. Besides, it will also enhance productivity and make it easier to work together.

ed to the Olugbo over the issue, alleging that the chairman of the House committee on OSOPADEC; Gbenga Edema was an interested party in the issue. The letter signed by the Chairman, Council of Baales of Ugboland, Chief A. T. Oyetomi and ten others, said the monarch took the right step, adding that Ugboland with oil deposit has associations that interface between host communities and oil companies with interference by the assembly. According to the letter, the Olugbo has the power to determine the dissolution and composition of executive committee of these associations who are representatives of Obas, Baales and

communities under the control of Olugbo. It explained that after the dissolution of the last executive committee of IRDC, a nineman committee was inaugurated with the mandate to demand list of representatives from Baales or heads of the communities The letter added that the Baales sent the list of their nominees following which they were screened putting into consideration educational qualification and exposure. The people however alleged that some of the people that lost out in the contest colluded with the committee chairman, “who has relentlessly clamoured for recognition of Mahin, Aheri and Etikan kingdoms.”

POS terminals to be deployed for GES By Adeyemi Adepetun OINT of Sale (POS) termiP nals are to be deployed as additional redemption channel by government under the Growth Enhancement Support (GES) scheme to enable farmers access fertilizers and other farming subsidies. According to the technology provider of the scheme, Cellulant Nigeria, by the development, whenever farmers get subsidized farm inputs the details of the transaction can now be stored in the POS terminals and later transferred to the central database of the scheme managed by Cellulant Nigeria. In addition; these POS gives the agrodealers the capacity to serve as mobile-money agents and enables farmers to enjoy various financial services. GES is a special scheme introduced by the Federal Government under President Goodluck Jonathan’s Agricultural Transformation Agenda (ATA) seeks to increase farmers’ access to subsidized farm inputs such as fertilisers and improved

seeds through the private sector. The scheme is designed for small scale farmers and currently over 10million farmers have been captured in the GES database According to the Chief of Party, Nigeria Team GES (Cellulant) Bolaji Akinboro terminals will provide very useful addition to the GES scheme as it will help to quickly capture data that could have either been lost or that would have taken a lot of time to reconcile. He said that both banks and dealers would be involved in the use of the terminals. Currently, there are three Nigerian banks and two POS terminal providers that are supporting the deployment. According to Cellulant; GES e-wallet is now evolving into the backbone of a payment system for agriculture; Nigeria farmers will be able to access various financial services in addition to the farm inputs they currently get through the scheme. cccHe said, “These POS terminals work in an off-line mode and evacuate data back to the GES platform on periodic schedules. The POS are issued

to agro-dealers at no cost by commercial banks and the agro-dealers via cellulant are responsible for maintenance and safekeeping of the POS. “These POS terminals allow us to solve the problem of capturing all categories of redemptions (farmer with phone/farmer without phone/no network) as they are happening from the side of the agro-dealer. The agrodealer himself becomes an additional source of data into the platform via the POS. This allows us to achieve faster reconciliation and problem resolution as we can trace/ compare transactions from farmer phone, register, RC& SL form and now POS data.” Akinboro added that the terminals will also allow operators of the GES to achieve total information symmetry/equality among the key participants (Banks, Suppliers, FGN, Agro-dealer) in the GES required for accurate reconciliation. In his words; the Nigerian Government is now implementing what we can refer to as “fast-tracking financial inclusion.”

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AfricaEconomy Africa’s GDP hits $2tr, needs $90b infrastructure investment yearly From Nkechi Onyedika, Abuja FRICA today has a comA bined Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of approximately $2 trillion, which is growing at a pace of 5.6 per cent per year. Meanwhile, the continent needs a yearly infrastructure investment of about $90 billion (this stands for momentum!) and 50 per cent of the 1.1 billion combined African population consists of 19 years and below young people. Also, Dr. Nicholas Duneas and Nuno Pires both from South Africa have been declared first prize winners for the 2014 Innovation Prize for Africa. The Winner Created the World’s First Injectable Regenerating Bone Graft Substitute Chairman, African Innovation Foundation, Jean-Claude who disclosed this at the 2014 Innovation Prize for Africa award held in Abuja, said that as a developing continent, Africa needs to first invest into all steps/actions which lead to the implementation of innovation and also invest into the creation of the innovation ecosystem by constantly supporting and incentivizing it. He noted that Africa should not expect to get all answers from the developed world regarding its challenges but has to go for African led solutions in which innovation can be a driving force. Jean-claude stressed the need to create design and innovation hubs, which understand the needs of the African consumers and have trend setting capabilities as well as a cluster approach for sector

focused Special Economic Zones “This fact is going to define the future demand, design and offer for products and services in Africa! Compared to Europe in which the median age of its population is 41.2 years, ... African governments, entrepreneurs and innovators ... will have to satisfy the needs of a much younger clientele. Africa needs to create ethical principles for the culture and value system of the African innovation space. This and much more... needs to done actively and focused, ... prior to be able to expect a big boom in real African innovation”. According to him, a working African led innovation system would help to promote and protect innovation, market it, create jobs, diversify the economy, boost entrepreneurship, enlarge the Small Midsized Enterprise-tissue of the economy,... attract global investors and eventually become an internationally recognized innovation space where we can proudly say this is ..... “Made in Africa”! He pointed out that African led design and innovation has to be a focus for African decision makers and entrepreneurs, otherwise the continent will not be able to satisfy the upcoming demand of our younger population! “By embracing an African and more comprehensive notion of innovation, we can open our minds to the power of innovation which is much greater than many people realize”, he added. Also speaking, Minister of Communication

Technology, Mrs Omobola Johnson stressed that for innovation to make impact in Africa, African leaders must increase access to technology. She stressed the need for Africa to create models that would address fundamental technological issues adding that innovations would revolutionalise Africa.

President Goodluck Jonathan

President Jacob Zuma of South Africa

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Tuesday, May 13, 2014 INTERNATIONAL ECONOMY 27

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Emirates Group announces $23.9 billion revenue By Bukky Oajide MIRATES Group has posted a $ 1.1 billion [4.1 billion Dhiram] profit, for its 26th consecutive year, a figure up by up 32 per cent from last year. The Group’s revenue reached $23.9 billion [87.8 billion Dhiram), an increase of 13 per cent over last year’s results, and the Group’s cash balance remained strong at $5.2 billion [19 billion Dhiram] “Achieving our 26th consecutive year of profit in a financial year marked by record increases in capacity and significant business investments across the Group, is testimony to the strength of our brands and our business fundamentals,” said Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline and Group, Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, “Throughout 2013-14 the Group has collectively invested over $6 billion [22 billion Dhiram], the highest amount ever in one financial year. We know that to be a sustainable and profitable business we have to keep adding value to our stakeholders, our customers, partners and

employees. To do this, we need efficient new aircraft, quality products and services, and cutting-edge facilities. Every dirham invested has been carefully considered against short and long-term goals - be it enhancing our capabilities, improving our product, or expanding our business footprint.” The Group also continued to invest in and expand on its employee base, increasing its overall staff count by 11 percent to over 75,000-strong representing over 160 different nationalities, across its more than 80 subsidiaries and companies. Revenue per airline employee increased by four per cent to $0.5 million (1.9 million). “We are moving into the new financial year with confidence, and a strong foundation for continued profitability with our strong balance sheet, solid track record, diverse global portfolio and international talent pool,” said Sheikh Ahmed. “Operating in a dynamic and highly-competitive environment means we have to stay agile, and

work even harder to meet and exceed our customers’ expectations. With the help of our 75,000 strong multicultural workforce, we have no doubt that we will be able to capitalise on the opportunities in the year ahead.” Similar to the last financial year, the Group declared a dividend of $ 280 million [1 billion Dhiram] to the Investment Corporation of Dubai. Emirates’ Destination and Leisure Management including hotels recorded revenue of $170 million [623 million Dhiram], an impressive increase of 35 per cent over last year. This positive development was supported by the first full year of operation of the JW Marriott Marquis Hotel in Dubai, the world’s tallest hotel. The second tower of the hotel will be fully operational later this year. In its 55 years of operation, 2013-14 has been dnata’s most successful yet, building on its very strong results in the previous year. dnata grew its revenue to AED 7.6 billion ($ 2.1 billion),

W’Europe to invest EUR30 billion in broadband scheme by 2017 VER EUR30 billion will O be invested in the next three years in Western Europe’s broadband sector according to new analysis from IHS. Across Germany France UK Italy and Spain government bodies and telecommunication companies are expected to spend EUR200 per household on next generation broadband rollout. “Across Europe’s big-five, companies and governments are looking to tap into the future economic and social benefits of having a future-proofed broadband network,” said Richard Broughton, head of broadband analysis at IHS Technology. Germany is to see EUR6 billion investment from Deutsche Telekom. The Deutsche Telekom made headlines when it committed in 2012 to a headline investment of EUR30 billion in high speed broadband technology in the years to 2015. A significant proportion of Deutsche Telekom’s investment is actually committed to the US for LTE build-out, but EUR6 billion is still being devoted to next-generation broadband rollout in Germany. Deutsche Telekom intends to ensure that 65 per cent of homes are covered by its fibre-to-the-cabinet (FTTC) network by 2016, with new ‘vectoring’ technology being deployed to raise transmission rates to 100Mbit/s.

In France, about EUR20 billion investment from public and commercial sources is to be invested. In 2013, the French government set out plans to invest EUR20 billion of public and private funds in next-generation fixed and mobile broadband, aiming to cover half of the population by 2017, with the remaining homes covered within a further five years. “Crucially, the government’s plans have stratified investment, asking ISPs to fund urban coverage, while providing a mixture of state and local government funding to ensure that semi-urban and rural areas are connected,” Broughton said. For the United Kingdom, about EUR5 billion investment from BT and central government In 2013, the UK government committed to ensuring that 95 percent of UK homes receive speeds of at least 24Mbit/s by 2017. Coupled with BT’s investment in FTTC and FTTH broadband, intended to cover nearly 20 million homes by the end of 2014, over EUR5 billion is being spent on upgrading the UK’s broadband infrastructure. “Less headline grabbing, but nonetheless, locally important investments are being made by other companies, including Sky and Talk Talk. They have unveiled plans to cover the city of York and a number of other yet-unnamed

areas with gigabit-persecond broadband,” Broughton said. However, in Spain, network sharing by main operators key to keeping costs low Telefonica Spain, Vodafone and Orange are to invest over EUR1 billion in a joint fibre optic network covering 6 million homes by 2017, and have signed additional deals to share fibre infrastructure in buildings in Spain. “In recession-hit Spain, network sharing - particularly as far as investment CapEx-heavy fibreoptic infrastructure is concerned - is a sound strategy for telecoms companies to engage in for reducing costs amongst ongoing uncertainty around immediate consumer demand for higher-speed broadband products,” said Broughton. For Italy, Telecom Italia strategic plan to invest EUR1.8 billion in ‘Ultrabroadband’ At the end of 2013, Telecom Italia ended speculation about its plans for next-gen broadband rollout by committing to significant investment in next-gen broadband - encompassing EUR1.8 billion in fixed access, and EUR0.9 billion in expanding its next-gen mobile network. The company aims to cover over half of the population with its ‘ultrabroadband’ by 2016.

Tuesday, May 13, 2014

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Tuesday, May 13, 2014 INTERNATIONAL ECONOMY 29

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China’s $50 billion Asia bank snubs Japan, India in power push N the first evening of the O Asian Development Bank’s yearly meeting in the capital of Kazakhstan this month, delegates from 16 countries skipped the scheduled Romeo and Juliet ballet for dinner at the Great Wall restaurant to talk about forming a totally different lender. They dined on Peking duck and tofu as China’s Finance Minister Lou Jiwei led discussions about the creation of the new $50 billion Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, to be mostly funded by China. Left out from the feast, however, were regional rivals Japan and India, as well as the U.S. China’s proposal is viewed privately by officials and diplomats as a challenge to the regional role of the ADB, a Manila-based multilateral lender founded in 1966 that is dominated by the U.S. and

Japan. It’s one of a number of moves by China to promote its influence in the region, from the suggestion of a “mega freetrade area” in Asia to promoting a a regional security summit hosted by President Xi Jinping this month with at least 14 state or government leaders attending, including Russian President Vladimir Putin. Japan and the U.S. are observers to the 24-member body. “China wants to play a more pivotal role in these kinds of organizations — so the best way is to establish an organization by itself,” said Oliver Rui, a professor of finance and accounting at the China Europe International Business School in Shanghai. “This is another way to think from a broad perspective in order to counterbalance Japan and the U.S.” China is seeking a more

Ukraine casts shadow as investors take pulse of fragile economy .S. and euro zone data will U help investors take the pulse of the global economy this week, but the crisis in Ukraine threatens to spoil any improvement. Steady prices and good retail sales are expected to show the U.S. economy in a more flattering light this week, in encouraging news for the Federal Reserve as it pares back the stimulus that has buoyed financial markets for the last few years. In the euro zone, where many investors are wondering if the European Central Bank will follow Washington’s example by turning on its money printing presses, a continued but modest improvement in output is expected. But a referendum on independence in eastern Ukraine called by pro-Russian separatists has underscored the threat of civil war in the country, a conflict that could rock confidence and hit trade between Russia and the rest of Europe. “An escalation of the Ukraine crisis might be the trigger which leads to a correction and can bring uncertainty back to the rest of the world,” said Carsten Brzeski, an economist with ING. “The return of uncertainty can really cost growth.” The crisis is having a dramatic impact on the already fragile Russian economy, dashing hopes that 2014 would be a year of recovery and placing the country instead on track for recession as investors dash to withdraw money. Although European Union sanctions have been so far largely symbolic, the threat of stiffer penalties from the United States or Europe against Russia’s banks or industry is scaring investors. Diplomats have told Reuters that the first companies would be added to the list of targets to be sanctioned this week, freezing their assets in Europe and marking a toughening of stance against Russia. The European Union is Russia’s top trading partner. The conflict threatens to upset Europe at a delicate moment. The 18 countries in the euro zone are expected to announce this week that economic output has increased at the strongest rate in three years. Germany, the bloc’s

industrial powerhouse, is also set to report growth. The recovery is fragile, however, with unemployment at record highs, banks reluctant to lend and sluggish prices meaning that the real burden of debts on countries such as Greece or Portugal is set to remain heavy. Although the United States does little trade with Russia, some analysts fear that its business with Europe could be hurt. “There could be a knock-on impact from Ukraine on the U.S. through Europe,” said Laura Rosner, an economist with BNP Paribas in New York. To compound problems, China, the engine of the global economy, is slowing. On Tuesday, a tally of China’s factory output and retail sales may portray a stable picture, following a recent improvement in exports. The government has meanwhile hastened construction of railways and affordable housing, while cutting taxes for small firms. In Europe, the president of the ECB, Mario Draghi, has said the bank is ready to act in June if slow price inflation persists. Investors are betting the ECB will cut the cost of borrowing. Some also await the launch of a program of quantitative easing (QE) or printing money to buy assets, such as bonds. But while pumping central bank money is easy to start, it is harder to unwind. The head of the U.S. Federal Reserve Janet Yellen recently said that shrinking its $4.5 trillion portfolio of assets to the pre-crisis size of $800 billion could take the best part of a decade. Britain’s economy too has rebounded thanks in part to the injection of central bank cash as well as record low interest rates. Bank of England Governor Mark Carney is due to present new economic forecasts on Wednesday when he will seek to explain why it is not in a rush to start unwinding stimulus for an economy, which is growing strongly. “With QE, it’s easy to get in but difficult to get out,” said Richard Koo of the Nomura Research Institute in Japan. “The market has got addicted to QE. I hope people are going to realize more the cost of getting out of QE. It’s going to be very messy.”

assertive international role as it tussles with neighbors such as Japan over maritime territory, and faces a U.S. that is shoring up its alliances in the region. The Chinese government is embroiled in disputes with the Philippines, which arrested Chinese fishermen near the disputed Spratly Islands, and Vietnam, with which it traded accusations after boats from the two countries collided near the site of a Chinese exploration rig in contested waters. The new bank, put forward by Xi during his visit to Indonesia in October, will initially be less than a third of the size of ADB, which has $174 billion in total capital, according to its 2013 report. “China’s expanding footprint in Asia might be perceived as less threatening to other countries if projects involving Chinese firms are funded by the AIIB instead of” policy lenders such as the China Development Bank or the Export-Import Bank of China, said Erica Downs, a fellow at the Brookings Institution in Washington D.C.. “China could use AIIB to legitimize its economic expansion.” China plans to pay a “relatively big portion” of the $50 billion but doesn’t necessarily have to own a controlling stake, Finance Minister Lou said in April. The working group for the establishment of the bank is based in Beijing and is headed by Jin Liqun, chairman of China International Capital Corp., one of the country’s lead-

ing investment banks. “Asia is in dire need of investment, especially in infrastructure, but ADB’s current capacity is really insufficient,” Lou said at a gathering of all ADB members on May 4 that included Japan, India and the U.S. “By comparison, the China Development Bank has been doing commercial infrastructure loans and its business size is far bigger than the ADB and World Bank combined - and that happened in less than 20 years.” Japan hasn’t been approached by China about the bank, Finance Minister Taro Aso said at a press conference in Astana. India, which has a disputed border with China, also hasn’t been invited to join, India’s Finance Minister Palaniappan Chidambaram said in a May 3 interview with Bloomberg. “I don’t know much about the Chinese proposal, the Chinese have yet to speak to us or discuss it with us,” he said. “What I know is what I read from the newspaper.” The delegates who attended the eight-course dinner included representatives from Pakistan, South Korea, Kazakhstan, Mongolia and Sri Lanka, according to a statement on the website of China’s Ministry of Finance. Japan and the U.S. are the two largest shareholders of the 67member ADB, with 15.7 per cent and 15.6 per cent respectively. The two countries also have a combined voting power of 26 per cent, compared with

China’s 5.47 per cent, according to the bank’s website. “The ADB is mainly led by Japan, and the World Bank is mainly led by America,” said Qi Jianguo, Director of Asia-Pacific Studies at the China Foundation for International Studies in Beijing. “And so the AIIB is mainly led by China.” Demand for infrastructure in the region means there’s room for coordination among different institutions, Indonesia’s Finance Minister Chatib Basri said in an interview on May 2. “It’s not like whether we should take the China side or the ADB side,” he said. Officially, the ADB welcomed China’s plan as well as another $50 billion development bank proposed by the BRICS countries. ADB President Takehiko Nakao told a press conference in Astana that his bank can provide about $13 billion in new lending every year, while Asia needs to spend around $8 trillion on national infrastructure over the next decade to sustain its growth trajectory. “I understand the reason behind these banks, so they should be welcomed,” Nakao said. The creation of the Chinese-led bank will mean the ADB has to “think more innovatively” how it can strengthen its capacity, he said. The AIIB will differ from the ADB by focusing on building infrastructure rather than prioritizing poverty reduction, Lou said at the Boao Forum in April. The bank is unlikely to

attach political conditions to its loans due to Beijing’s policy of not interfering in other countries’ internal affairs, according to Zhao Jianglin, a researcher with the National Institute of International Strategy at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences in Beijing. “As China’s economic power grows, it’s a natural process for China to play a bigger role in the region and to give more support to other countries,” Zhao said by phone. “Now China has the ability to show the real money.” China’s soft power push is driving other multilateral initiatives. It has proposed studying a “mega free-trade” agreement in the Asia-Pacific region and has submitted plans for a working group, Wang Shouwen, assistant commerce minister, told reporters in Beijing last month, according to the official Xinhua News Agency. Xi will preside over a summit starting May 20 in Shanghai of the Conference on Interaction and ConfidenceBuilding Measures, a body first mooted by Kazakhstan in 1992 to promote peace and security in Asia. The organization has a clear “Asian-led identity,” upholds China’s principle of non-interference in the internal affairs of other countries and has “enormous development potential in the future,” Cheng Guoping, Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs said at briefing last week.

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Business Tuesday, May 13, 2014

Govt unveils new standards for cement industry By Femi Adekoya OLLOWING raging controFindustry versies in the cement over the appropriateness and use of a cement grade by consumers, the Federal Government may have approved new standards for the commodity in the country. Precisely, the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) had reviewed and approved new gradestrengths of cement production in Nigeria. The Governing Council of SON gave approval to the reviewed standards for cement, pegging the product standard at NIS 444-1, which automatically becomes the new composition and conformity criteria for common cement in the country. The Agency’s Council also released 10 other testing stan-

dards as national standard requirements for the product in Nigeria. According to information obtained by The Guardian, the reviewed standards take immediate effect although monitoring and enforcement of the policy would kick off in the next three months in order to provide stakeholders the opportunity to implement the new rules. Following the new order, the cement grades CEM I 52.5R and 52.5N will be used in the construction of bridges; CEM II 42.5R, 42.5N for use in the casting of columns, beams, slabs, block moulding and CEM I & II 32.5R, 32.5N for plastering of buildings only. Furthermore, under the new review regime, manufacturers are saddled with labelling responsibility on their products.

Specifically, required features/information include: colour code for proper identification according to strength class and the coloured part of the bag with the labelling information is to take one-third of the bag surface on both sides. Also, the location address of manufacturer, batch number and expiry date shall be stated under the new regime on cement. A top official from SON noted that: “The standards were reviewed because they had attained five year mandatory period for review as well as due to concerns over the quality of cement in the Nigerian markets. There are also fears over misapplication of the different strength classes of cement which was allegedly attributed to the frequent collapse of buildings in Nigeria.” It could be recalled that the

relevant stakeholders and experts in the cement subsector such as Cement Manufacturers, universities, research institutes, consumer associations, Block Moulders Association of Nigeria, Non-Governmental Organisations, ministries, departments and agencies, and the media among others, had fully participated in the activities leading to the review of the standards.

Further information from the official revealed that the review incorporated information on the application of the various grades of cement as well as additional information and features on the bag of cement. It is expected that the new guidelines would enable the end-users to make the right choice, help to avoid unethical application of the different types of

cement; enhance proper identification of the different cement classes, for traceability as well as to guide the users. It would be recalled that SON in the wake of the crisis inaugurated a technical committee to look at the existing grades of cement in the country with a view to recommending the best grades that should be in place for the good of the

RegCharles woos investors, donors with Money Managers By Anthony Chidubem Nwachukwu MARTING from the sucSgrowing cesses recorded so far in Micro, Small and Medium Scale Enterprises (MSMEs) in the past two years through various schemes, an investment

firm, RegCharles Finance and Capital Limited, has unfolded fresh platforms for both big and small investors to reach their ends by empowering upcoming entrepreneurs. The new schemes, which

were unveiled in Lagos last week, include the RegCharles Philanthropy Investment Note, RegCharles Alternative Investment Note and RegCharles Lease Investment Note. Others are the RegCharles Employee Investment Plan, RegCharles Kiddies Investment Plan, and RegCharles SME impact Note. Addressing newsmen at the event, the company’s Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Peter Damian Mbama, said the nonbanking financial institution has mandate to “create, protect, multiply and catalyse the wealth of clients in chosen markets by ensuring access to finance, markets, information and advisory for the small and growing businesses, using various financial and strategic structures in the process.” According to him, Philanthropy Investment enables corporate organizations, ultra-high net-worth individuals, high net-worth individuals and high-income earners to “provide soft loans to their dependants or other entrepreneurs without their knowing the source of the funds.” And by so doing, Mbama said, they impact the community positively by reducing poverty and promoting entrepreneurship. This strategy, he noted, minimizes or obviates the probability of default in repayment by the borrower, thus ensuring that the investor gets back the capital at the end of the tenure, and the accrued interest, if so planned, while also satisfying the benefactor. Under the platform, the investor will refer the intended beneficiary, while minimum subscription is N1 million for three to five months period, with roll over option, among others. In the Alternative Investment Note, the investor gives RegCharles free hand to decide a suitable portfolio to plough the funds into and ensures “regular, high returns for securitization purposes.” Initial minimum investment here is N5 million, with additional N500,000 per quarter subsequently, and returns between 13 and 19.5 per cent per annum, among others. The MSME Impact Note allows investors to plough into long-term, sustainable growth of the high-impact MSME companies to enable them grow and create jobs in the whole value chain. Mbama said this scheme takes N200,000 minimum subscription for one to 10 years, with negotiable return rates, in addition to 2.5 per cent of invested fund for full maturity at one year, among others.

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Tuesday, May 13, 2014

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Tuesday, May 13, 2014

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Tuesday, May 13, 2014

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Appointments Sustaining economic growth through job creation

By Yetunde Ebosele NE of the major highO lights of the just concluded World Economic Forum (WEF) on Africa was the critical role of job creation in all developmental efforts. Held for the first time in Abuja, Nigeria, the forum which had as its team “Forging inclusive growth, creating job” dwelled extensively on how to ensure that economic activity translates into job creation, reduce poverty and lower inequality. According to various speakers, channeling revenues from natural resource extraction towards human capital development, particularly in the area of education and health is needed to support growth. The need to create job according to president Goodluck Jonathan who spoke at the conference is a global problem, adding that the International Labour Organisation (ILO) estimates that in 2013 over 200 million people were unemployed around the world including about 75 million young people between the ages of 15-24. Jonathan said: “Practically, all countries around the world are concerned about job creation. The developed economies, such as the United States of America (USA), the United Kingdom (UK) and the Euro zone countries are all monitoring their employment numbers very closely to see if their economies are recovering from the recent global recession”. Explaining further, the president said in southern European countries such as Spain and Portugal, unemployment rates have remained high in recent years at above 20 percent. Jonathan said: “In fact, there have been many reported cases of reverse migration of young graduates from Portugal and

Wogu

Okonjo-Iweala

Jonathan

Spain, who are now moving back to their former colonies such as Angola, Brazil and Mozambique to seek jobs! In Africa, we also have our employment challenges. The unemployment rates today are over 20 percent in many of our countries - Nigeria at about 24 per cent, South Africa at 25 per cent. “The second point I want to make is that in Africa, the unemployment problem is compounded by our youthful population and pending demographic transition. As you know Africa’s population is very young. Other continents are “ageing”, but Africa’s population of young people is growing. African leaders therefore face special challenges. We have the challenge to provide jobs, housing and healthcare. “If you walk down the streets in Europe, the median age of the person you see is about 40 years. In Asia, the median age of the person on the street is 29 years. In Africa, this median age is only 20 years, so it means that about half of the population in Africa today is under the age of 20 years. “Demographers are also predicting that this youth population is going to grow even further. McKinsey, the consulting firm, has calculated that an additional 122 million workers will enter Africa’s Labour force by 2020. And that, by 2035, the combined size of the African Labour force would be greater than that of the most heavily populated countries in the world, including China. “This is daunting, and should be a wake-up call to all of us in Africa to work harder on job creation with a great sense of urgency. We have a lot of young people who are unemployed but who also do not necessarily have the required competencies or skills, even if the jobs are available and that again, is a major challenge”, the President added. On what can be done to cre-

ate more jobs especially in Nigeria, Jonathan told the gathering that job creation has been the main focus of the present administration’s ongoing transformation agenda “which is our programme to modernise and diversify the Nigerian economy”. He added: “Job creation is one of the concerns that keeps me up at night, and it has been the main theme of our Federal Government Budget in recent years. We recognise that the private sector will be the engine of growth and job-creation. We are putting in place the necessary conditions to support this private sector growth such as ensuring a stable macroeconomic environment (low inflation, stable exchange rates and so on), investing in critical infrastructure (roads, railways, power among others.), and investing in the development of skills of our people”. Indeed, labour leaders and members of the civil societies have repeatedly called on various tiers of the Nigerian government on the need to create more jobs for unemployed Nigerians and tackle alleged graft. From the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, to Lagos State, Port Harcourt in Rivers State, Kaduna State and other parts of Nigeria, labour leaders are unanimous in their clamour for more jobs and better conditions of service. The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) recently called on the Federal Government to encourage industrialisation by putting measures such as security and steady power supply in place. President of NLC, Abdulwaheed Omar also recently identified unemployment, insecurity and corruption as some of the challenges confronting the country. Omar said “We (NLC) have chosen to focus specifically

on three key challenges which, if not dealt with decisively and in a timely manner, could very well undermine the survival of our nation. These are the challenges of unemployment, insecurity and corruption”. He added: “The country is faced by a monumental unemployment problem.

Official statistics put the national unemployment rate at approximately 24 per cent. As high as this rate is, it nevertheless camouflages the enormity of the unemployment crisis in the country. If underemployment and disguised unemployment were to be added to the figure, the monumental

crisis will become more glaring. “More importantly, an analysis of the disaggregated unemployment data shows that the youths bear the greatest brunt of the unemployment problem. The unemployment rate

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APPOINTMENTS Tuesday, May 13, 2014

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Don harps on corporate governance, change for sustainability By Clarkson Eberu HANGE has become the “C norm today. We have all got a role to play to bring about change. Do not leave it to the experts because we are all experts. “We have low readiness for change. Dissatisfaction with our present condition should drive change.” With the above extracts, a lecturer with the Lagos Business School (Pan Atlantic University), Sir Charles

Ogbechie, has charged Nigerians, organizations and businesses alike to innovate if they must remain relevant and competitive. Speaking over the weekend in Lagos at the 12th yearly lecture of the Lagos Island Personnel Practitioners Consultative Association (LIPPCA) with the theme “Empowering Change” and topic, “21st Century Tools, 19th Century Mindset”, the guest speaker stressed the imperativeness of corporate

governance to the sustainability of any entity, noting that it builds and strengthens accountability. He said for any organisation to survive, integrity, accountability and transparency were of utmost importance as they create room for good clientele and partnerships. Corporate governance, according to Ogbechie, is a set of rules that governs management, boards and stakeholders. He submitted that our

Commissioner, permanent secretary appear before industrial court over unpaid entitlements From Isa Abdulsalami Ahovi, Jos AUCHI State B Commissioner of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Ahmad Abubakar Faggo and Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Hudu Yunusa, recently in Jos appeared before the National Industrial Court to respond to a subpoena issued by the court in the case filed by excouncilors over their unpaid entitlements. The court had on April 2, 2014 issued a subpoena to the duo to appear before it and explain why it has taken so long to settle the unpaid allowances of 323 ex-councilors. At the resumed hearing, the presiding Judge, Justice R. H. Gwandu asked of the whereabouts of those subpoenaed, saying, “At the last adjourned date, I ordered for appearance of respondents in court.” Counsel to the Bauchi State Government, Yusuf Adam told

the court that those subpoenaed are present in court and made application for more time to settle with the appellants, adding, “We are determined to complete the balance of their entitlements. We will be asking for two months to do so.” Counsel to the plaintiff, Dalbada Victor did not object to the application. In her ruling, Justice Gwandu cautioned the ex-councilors to guard their utterances and actions and not trample the

course of justice, adding, “You must exercise patience and be an agent of change. As politicians each and every one of you is a representative of his community and bear in mind that you are leaders that should not tamper with peace. I am appealing to you to remain calm and continue to pursue your rights according to the ambit of the law.” She adjourned the case to July 16, 2014 for report of settlement.

behaviours play a great role in driving corporate governance or culture. The don also stressed innovation, saying it reshapes the future of an organisation. He noted: “Managers must focus on innovation if they must remain in business. Innovation is not limited to new products and services, but also relates to how we invest in the future.” Ogbechie charged Nigeria to bring innovation to play so it could re-orientate and reenergise its value system if she must succeed as a nation. He cautioned that what sustainability was going to do to organisations that rebuff

change would be akin to what technology, the key driver of organisational change, did to a couple of local and multinational companies in the no distant past. The speaker however, underscored the need for robust corporate social responsibility (CSR) activities and employee empowerment while not eroding business ethics. “Empowerment is basic cornerstone of change,” he stressed, adding that entrepreneurial spirit should be included in an organisation’s scheme of things. He called for emergence of

transformational leaders and enthronement of a new world of workplace where an atmosphere of value and dialogue reigns. By embracing change, Ogbechie said new businesses, employment generation and better profitability are assured. The chairman of the occasion and Director, Business Services, Chevron Nigeria Limited, Emmanuel Imafidon, while expressing satisfaction with the topic and delivery, charged participants to imbibe what had been said at the event.

CAMAC elevates officers AMAC group of companies C recently promoted key officers to new positions in the group and its subsidiaries. Among those elevated are Laide Olufemi, who was promoted to the post of Group Executive Director (Corporate Services). He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemical Engineering and a Master’s

Public in degree Administration. He is also a fellow of the of Institute Nigeria Management (Chartered), fellow of the Institute of Credit Administration and an associate member of Chartered Personnel of Institute Management. Before now, he served as the group’s head of Human

and Resources Administration department. Also, Adekunle Alli is now the Group Executive Director (Finance and Account). He began his career with the firm of Ernst and Whinney as Senior Account. He later moved on to Mobil Oil Nigeria, where he served in the finance and services department, among others

Caverton appoints Ileoma as Chief Financial Officer AVERTON, one of Nigeria’s C leading providers of support solutions to local and international oil companies across aviation and marine services, has appointed Samuel Ileoma as its Chief Financial Officer, effective from 2 May 2014. Ileoma brings extensive

financial and operational leadership experience to Caverton having worked at senior management level at various multinational companies including BJ Services, Diageo-Guinness and Baker Hughes. He is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of

Nigeria and also holds a Master’s Degree in Business Administration. His professional career started with Peat Marwick (now KPMG) in 1987 from where he joined Mobil Producing Nigeria as an accountant. He served as the pioneer

Finance manager for BJ Services between 1991 and 1995 after which he was seconded to the UK office in Aberdeen. He moved to Diageo-Guinness in 2000 as Manager of West Africa Audit and Risk Management and served in that role for six

years, when he undertook several assignments across Africa, Europe and Australia. Ileoma also worked at Baker Hughes and more recently at Bristow Helicopters as Compliance Manager for the West Africa Strategic Business Unit.

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Tuesday, May 13, 2014 APPOINTMENTS 37

Panel on local government employee scheme of service inaugurated From Anthony Otaru, Abuja ETERMINED to improve the services and welfare of Local Government Employees across the country, the Federal Government has inaugurated a 13 member Presidential Committee on the Review of the Scheme of Service for the Local Government Employees. Inaugurating the Committee in Abuja, the Minister of Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Affairs, Alhaji Kabiru Tanimu Turaki said that the effort would in no small measure help to curb rural-urban drift of manpower. ‘’As it stands today, the teeming youths of this nation prefers working in the city centres than small towns or villages after graduation. But, if the conditions of Service are made attractive, most of them would be encouraged to seek employment at the local level’’, the minister noted. The terms of reference for the committee includes, To review the Current Scheme of Service [2006 edition], to liaise with the Establishment Department to incorporate approved cadres in the Scheme of Service and to produce a draft copy of Local Government Scheme of Service among others. The Minister said that the Committee is expected to complete its assignment in earnest to enable the Ministry present the documents for validation by stakeholders during the

Committee of Local Government Forum [CLGF]/ the United Nations Development Programme [UNDP] supported conference slated for 2nd week of June. Earlier in his welcome address, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Taiye Haruna said that it is hoped that through this review and the ongoing collaboration between the Ministry and the UNDP and other stakeholders, effective

and sustainable development will be realized at the local levels in Nigeria. Responding on behalf of the Committee, the Chairman, Local Government Service Commission, Niger State and representative from the North West, Alhaji Ibrahim Halidu appealed to the Ministry to assist to carry out a comprehensive evaluation of staff in all the councils in the country in view of alleged prevalence of ghost

workers. Halidu promised that the committee would do their best to turn around the fortunes of the local government service commission for the overall benefit of the nation. The 13 member committee drawn from the six-geopolitical zones, Head of Service, NULGE as well as the ministry has Umaru Amborosa as its Chairman and Dr. Rufai Attahiru from the Ministry as Secretary

Youths get training on bee farming From Joke Falaju, Abuja O help reduce unemployT ment in the country, a group, Grassroots Movement Group (GMG) has trained some youths on bee farming. Director-General, GMG, Dr. Betty Nnadi, while unveiling the organisation’s logo and slogan in Abuja, recently said the organisation was established to empower young people across the country to engage in agriculture and other small scale businesses. Nnadi said: “The Grassroots Movement Group (GMG) as the name implies, is a Community and Grassroots based Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) with a mission to provide a platform that would bridge communication gap between the urban and

rural dwellers through information dissemination and awareness creation especially on government programmes and policies”. Nnadi added:“Some of GMG’s objectives are to harness these potentials through empowerment of Nigerians and the youths in particular to go back to self-employment in the areas of Small Scale Enterprises, sports and farming, whether it is subsistence or commercial. “On ground, GMG’s presence is being felt in different wards through training, advocacy, workshop, seminars and research. For instance in Kaduna, GMG has been empowering youths in different wards on modern techniques of bee farming”. Explaining further, she said: “What GMG did was to form groups of 10 members,

empower them to harvest honey, while GMG buys from them since it already have established market. GMG plans to replicate this in all the wards across the country. This is but one of the many activities we engage in. “If youths are engaged, it will go a long way to reduce restiveness, curb criminality, and provide employment for a chunk of the 1.8 million Nigerian graduates that enter the labour market annually,” said Nnadi She further stated that the organisation was also negotiating on wheat farming with some farmers in Gombe State. She said:“One of such is the current discussion we are having with rural farmers in Gombe state to encourage them to go into wheat farming”.

EU donates N4.46b for reforms in civil service From: Karls Tsokar, Abuja N a bid to boost the reform Iservice, process in the Nigerian civil the European Union (EU) is committing 20 million Euros (N4.46 Billion) towards the coordination of the programme reform process, policy development and civil service administration. The Supervising Minister of National Planning, Bashir Yuguda made this known in Abuja during the signing ceremony of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and inauguration of the project steering committee for the EU Support to Federal Governance Reform Programme (SUFEGOR) in Nigeria, recently. In a statement signed by the Head of Information of the Ministry, Salisu Haiba, the Minister identified beneficiary agencies as the Office of Head of Service of the Federation, the Bureau of Public Service Reform, National Planning Commission, National Bureau of Statistics and the Federal Inland Revenue service. Yuguda, also noted that efforts would be made to ensure that the project is implemented as planned and “achieves the desired objectives and results which will go a long way to assist Nigeria in achieving its developmental goals articulated in the Nigeria’s Vision 20: 2020 and the Transformation Agenda” The Planning Minister also

recalled that the Federal Government of Nigeria, commenced the implementation of the National Strategy for Public Service Reform (NSPSR) in 2008, after recognising that, the weakness of the public service has negatively impacted on its ability to deliver social services and achieve the objectives of its long-term policy framework, “Vision 20-2020” He explained that the government’s 2010 Performance Monitoring and Evaluation Report notes that the marginal gains recorded by the Public Service Reforms are not sufficient to carry the service to the next level. Yuguda listed other factors, which make policy planning and forecasting less reliable and effective such as weak technical competences of key specialised agencies responsible for statistical development and policy planning namely the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) and the National Planning Commission (NPC) He further mentioned “the existing Medium-Term Sector Strategy (MTSS) is still weak, in spite of government’s efforts at improving the strategy in the past two years. Also annual budgets are neither prepared on the basis of this strategy nor linked to government’s Medium Term Economic Framework (MTEF), and this makes it difficult to monitor policy and budget performance in line with its policy framework and priorities.

Tuesday, May 13, 2014

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Tuesday, May 13, 2014 APPOINTMENTS 39

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Okorocha offers 25,000 jobs to Imo youths From Charles Ogugbuaja, Owerri OVERNOR Rochas G Okorocha of Imo State on Tuesday launched the “Youth Must Work” programme, offering a total of 25,000 Imo youths jobs into various establishments. Inaugurating the programme at the Dan Anyiam Stadium, Owerri, Okorocha disclosed that out of the number, 8,000 able bodied men and women were engaged in the Imo Civil Guards, Community Watch, Security Network, Agriculturists, Engineers, teachers among others, adding that the state government has approved the release of N500 million clothing allowances and monthly N20, 000 to each employee. Okorocha clad in the security uniform said the security outfits would help in tracking down kidnapping and other security prob-

*Inaugurates Community Government Council members lems in the state and country at large, adding that they would assist other statutory police and other agencies in tackling crime in the state. Also, the governor formally unveiled the statue of a freed man as part of the activities that marked the third Freedom Day anniversary marking the emancipation of lmo people from what he termed alleged misrule for 12 years by the previous administrations in the state. The occasion took place at Freedom Square, located near the popular “Ware House by Orlu Road, Owerri, on Tuesday.” The governor had declared the day, holiday to enable people participate in the event. The event witnessed in attendance workers, traders, and government

officials among others. As part the activities marking the events, Okorocha had inaugurated elected officials of the Community Government Council (CGC), elected from the 637 autonomous communities in the 27 Local Councils of

the three Senatorial Districts of the state (Imo East, Imo West and Imo North). The Commissioner administered the oath of office and allegiance for Justice and Attorney General, Mr. Chukwuma Machukwu

Umeh (SAN) at Ahiajoku Convention Centre, New Owerri. Okorocha said the essence was to bring rural development to the fore in the state, adding that the monarchs were the chairmen of the CGC in various communities they rule, adding that the CGC would be treated as a Parastatal under the

Ministry of the Community Government Council, with budget envelope. Those inaugurated included Secretaries General, Women Leaders and Youth Leaders. They are expected to work with the Government Liaison Officers (CLOs) and Community Liaison Officers (CLOs).

Ogun begins payment of outstanding pensions HE Ogun State Governor, T Ibikunle Amosun has approved the payment of gratuity to pensioners who have retired from the Public Service. A statement signed by the state head of service, Mrs. Modupe Adekunle explained that the pensioners whose gratuities are scheduled for payment in

April, May and June 2011 as well as October and November 2012 would be paid immediately. The statement explained that all affected pensioners would be communicated through text messages. According to the statement, the state government has so far paid a total of N5.6 billion as gratuity in 34 months

Group Managing Director, Lexcel Group, Anil Ahluwalia (left); Chairman of the group, Olajide Rosiji, (second right); jointly presenting best performance trophy to the Managing Director of Grand Oak Ltd, Akshay Kumar, (second left);while Sales Operation Manager,Dele Akinloye watch on during the first quarter performance review conference of all the subsidiaries in the group, held at Ikeja,at the weekend.

40 APPOINTMENTS Tuesday, May 13, 2014

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NUJ declares dispute with Champion Newspapers over 24 month salaries AGOS State Council of the LJournalists Nigeria Union of (NUJ) has declared industrial dispute with the management of Champion Newspapers over the non-payment of more than 24 month salary owed its members. In its notification letter to the Minister of Labour and Productivity, the Council listed some of its grievances against The Champion management to include, nonpayment of over two year salary arrears; non- refund of NSITF deductions to members; unremitted cooperative society funds, nonremittance of tax deductions to appropriate quarters as well as re-instatement of final entitlement benefits of workers stopped in December, 2005 among other deductions. In a press statement signed by the Chairman of the Council, Deji Elumoye and the Secretary, Sylva Okereke, the Council said the industrial dispute has become expedient as several attempts made to ensure the payment of all the workers’ entitlements in the past proved abortive. The statement said: “We decided to take this industrial action as several decisions taken to reach agreement with the management of Champion did not yield any result. We held several meetings with the manage-

We decided to take this industrial action as several decisions taken to reach agreement with the management of Champion did not yield any result. We held several meetings with the management and several promises were made but to no avail ment and several promises were made but to no avail”. The statement also disclosed that some other steps taken by the Council in this regard include ultimatum given on the issues in contention as well as several attempts made to meet with the publisher of The Champion Newspapers and a member of the Board of Trustees of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu. Lagos NUJ noted that the industrial action filed before the Minister of Employment, Labour and Productivity on April 1, 2014 was in accordance with Section 4 of Trade Disputes Act, CAP 432 of the Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 1990 and in its subsequent amendment, Trade Disputes (Amendment) Decree No. 47 of 1992.

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Job creation as panacea for economic growth CONTINUED FROM PAGE 35 among the youths has been put at 37.7 per cent. Some estimates actually suggest that the figure is over 50 per cent”. To reverse the trend, Omar urged the Federal Government to urgently initiate a range of measures to revive and protect labourintensive industries like textile, food and beverages, construction, iron and steel sectors among others. Jonathan told representatives from different parts of the world at the World Economic Forum that Nigeria has grown rapidly over the past decade - at about 7 percent per annum, pointing out that the country is now also the largest economy on the continent and the 26th largest in the world. He added: “After our GDP rebasing exercise, our GDP for 2013 is now estimated at about 510 billion US Dollars. Yet, the quality of our growth has been less than desirable in the sense that we are not creating as many decent jobs as we need to. “That is why we have focused on a number of priority sectors which have high job-creating potential, such as agriculture, manufacturing, housing & construction, and the services sectors. And in each of these sectors, we are working to unlock the various obstacles faced by businesses so they create jobs. We are learning from the example of other countries - such as China - to

see what they have done in this regard to create jobs for their citizens. “Our recent GDP rebasing exercise shows that the Services sector now accounts for about 51 percent of our economy, up from 26 percent previously. And so we are introducing targeted measures to further harness this sector by supporting the development of our Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). “For example, we are working to develop our housing and construction sector, given its potential to create jobs for our craftsmen and artisans. We also recently launched our National Industrial Revolution Plan, which will further invigorate our manufacturing sector. “In addition, in the shortterm, we have also introduced special, government initiatives such as a business plan competition for young entrepreneurs (called YouWiN) which provides grants of between $10,000$90,000 equivalents to the best business plans. This programme has thus far supported more than 2,400 young entrepreneurs who have created more than 26,000 jobs. “We also have a Graduate Internship Scheme which places recent graduates in private sector jobs. Also, a public works programme as part of our Subsidy Re-investment Program (SURE-P), which has created about 120,000 jobs. “Overall, the National Bureau of Statistics estimates

that 1.6 million jobs were created across the country in the past 12 months, but my Administration is not relenting because we are aware that even more jobs are needed to support our growing youth population”. The president also emphasized the need to ensure that the poorer and vulnerable members of our societies are also carried along. “We need economic growth - but we must work to ensure that this growth is inclusive. In Africa, most of our countries must begin to think about introducing social protection measures building on the strong traditions we already have of caring for one another. “Our friends in Latin America have more knowledge in this area and can share some of their experiences with us. We are look-

ing for example at President Lula’s work where he created the Bolsa Familia - which is a conditional cash transfer programme to support lowincome families and lift them up from the bottom of the ladder. It has been a successful programme, and we can learn from his example”, the president added. To reinvigorate Nigeria’s economy and empower teeming unemployed youths across the country, Supervising Minister of Education, Nyesom Wike, emphasised the role of technical and vocational education. Speaking during a business dinner organised by the Nigerian Embassy in Czech Republic in Prague, to mark his visit to the country’s Education Ministry and Technical Education institutions, Wike stated that the

President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration believes that equipping the youths with functional skills was key to tackle employment challenges in Nigeria. A statement quoted Wike as saying the benefits of technical and vocational education “are critical to the goals that this administration is aiming to achieve”, adding that, “we believe that youths that are equipped with the relevant tools will be self-reliant and employers of labour”. The statement added: “That is why we have resolved to seek cooperation with countries that have the capacity and experience to assist us in this direction. We have identified Czech Republic as a country with the relevant expertise that will be profitable to our country”. The Minister explained that the disparity between the

qualifications from universities and polytechnics is being address by the government to serve as an encouragement to Nigerians interested in acquiring technical qualifications. Head, Technology Agency of the Czech Republic, Petr Matolin, stated that his country has used technical and vocational education to drive her economy and improve the living condition of the people. He stated that the agency would fully collaborate with the Nigerian government to improve the application of technical and vocational education as an economic tool aimed at empowering the people, pointing out that the institution has developed techniques of translating ideas into positive applications that enhance national development.

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Labour CANMPSSAN tasks govt on job losses in construction industry By Yetunde Ebosele OrrIED by recent agitation W on the standardisation of the cement industry, organised labour has warned the Federal Government against pursuing unpopular policy that would lead to massive job loss, even as it said that cement has nothing to do with building collapses. Briefing the press on various issues in the chemical sector at its National Secretariat in Sango Ota, Ogun State, the National President of the Chemical and Non Metallic Products Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (CANMPSSAN), Abdul Gafar Mohammed said the union perceived the present agenda as a trend towards monopolising the entire industry, which he vowed would be resisted by labour. Noting that there are about 27 types of cement that exist all over the world, Mohammed

NITT gets ILO licence to train NPA staff From Saxone Akhaine, Northern Bureau Chief HE Nigerian Institute of T Transport Technology (NITT), Zaria has been granted

license by the International Labour Organisation (ILO) to run ILO Port-workers Development Programme (PDP) for training purposes and development of the nation’s Port workers skills. The officials of ILO issued the license to the NITT December, last year, with the aimed of encouraging worldwide development and standardisation of training programme for port-workers in Nigeria and the West African subregion. The license, which is for a period of five years, remains valid till December31st, 2018. In a statement by the NITT Corporate Affairs head, Paul Mshelizah, the license from the ILO was granted “based on the Institute’s active participation in the ILO train-thetrainer initiative as well as the suitability of its facilities and competence of resource personnel to run port-workers related training programmes”. He also pointed out “ILO officials have equally accredited NITT training facilities in Zaria, Lagos, Abuja and PortHarcourt to serve as bases for training of port-workers in Nigeria”. “By virtue of this new mandate by the ILO, “the Institute can now legitimately design and run port-workers related training programmes at its headquarters in Zaria as well as in each of its conference learning centres located in Lagos, Abuja and Port hacourt.” Mshelizah however explained, “NITT hopes to target Dock Labour Workers, Crane Operators, Container Terminal Operators, Multimodal Transport Service Providers, Port Operators/Concessionaries and Landlords, Customs Agents amongst other stakeholders in the maritime and ports industry when the PDP gets underway”.

said that each type of cement supports different purpose. “We have the following grades 12.5,22.5,32.5,42.5,52.5, sulphate resistance cement, oil well, white cement and others, none of the cement is inferior to others; “ No one size fits all”, he said. According to him, organised labour as stakeholder in the industry will support any effort that will stop the incidence of building collapses. Besides he affirmed that his union is prepared to partner with relevant governmental agencies to see that building collapses become a thing of the

past. He said that loss of lives because of building collapses is not only disheartening but also avoidable. Mohammed however explained that many reasons are responsible for building collapses, among which include poor application, site corruption stealing and compromises, soil test and lack of use of professionals on site. He argued that rather than pursuing the agenda of forcing out the 32.5 grade out of the market, the Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON) must rigidly ensure that standards are met

the construction industry. “Cocoa house in Ibadan was built with 32.5, so likewise the federal secretariat in Ikoyi, including all the construction works in Abuja in the early 90s, all these structures are still standing, we believe that the right application of all the materials will eliminate the incidence of building collapse. Besides a task force should be established comprising SON, government and professionals to track compliance”, Mohammed said. He said there is need for choice in selection of materials for different applications in construc-

tion industry, alleging that the agenda is out to fight and eradicate union. “Some cement plants will have to be shut-down because of need to upgrade thereby bringing an increase in price and about two years is required typically to upgrade some of the cement plant to produce only one type with attendant consequences”, he noted. The Labour leader who argued that it is only when consumers are allowed to have choice between different types of cement that standard would not be compromised, explained further that the north will be

heavily impacted thereby starving other geographical zones of development and employment opportunities. He stated further, “The action will likewise have implication on current ongoing projects because the contractors will have to redesign the structure based on a single cement type thereby increasing job loss and cost. “Our union will not stand by and look without challenging any undue politicization of this all important sector that will lead to loss of jobs as a result of inconsistent government policies.”

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Business Tuesday, May 13, 2014

NCAA raises benchmark for planes' airworthiness By Ibe Uwaleke ENCEFORTH, any comH mercial aircraft, which government officials cannot enter due to safety issues, will no longer be allowed to carry passengers of any category. This is the way Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), now wants to benchmark the airworthiness of all flying aircraft in the country. NCAA read the riot act yester-

day to all domestic airline operators charging them to avoid flying faulty aircraft or does unnecessary cancellation of flights. Acting Director General of NCAA, Benedict Adeyileka handed down this new order while issuing the Air Operators’ Certificate ( AOC), to AZMAN Air Services, the latest entrant in the domestic scene in the air transport industry .

Adeyileka said the NCAA issued the certificate to AZMAN Air Services after two years of scrutiny into the documents and manuals of the airline in line with the prescribed requirements. The era in which domestic airlines violate passenger rights through delayed flights and unnecessary cancellation, Adeyileka said, would no longer be tolerated by the regulatory authority. He said the airline must at all times pursue the safety of its operations as a primary responsibility, warning that any airline that has a questionable safety record would be banned. "Any airline that NCAA and its officials cannot fly will not be allowed to operate. Such airlines will be banned. “This is the reason all domestic airlines must ensure they have adequate spares for aircraft maintenance, avoid flight delays and unnecessary flight cancellations. The NCAA will not grant any extension for crew license approvals and aircraft maintenance. It must be noted that NCAA inspectors do not issue air operators ' certificate,” he stated. The President of AZMAN Air Services, Alhaji Adbulmunaf Yunusa said the path towards achieving the certification was tortuous. He said:" It is a day of celebration, having successfully accomplished the tedious

and grueling process of certification that the company embarked upon since 2011. “The process we have gone through is a comprehensive

well designed and crafted programme that is geared towards the provision of safe reliable and efficient airline services in Nigeria.

“No wonder there are not many investors who are interested in aviation, as a sector that is risky, competitive and hugely capital intensive.”

Head, Corporate Planning and Strategy, Skye Bank Plc, Tajudeen Ahmed (left); Former Finance Minister, Dr. Kalu Idika Kalu, at the Covenant University’s international conference on Africa's Development at Ota, Ogun State.

Ijaw leaders laud Jonathan, Uduaghan on Delta gas city project From Chido Okafor, Warri EADERS of oil rich Ijaw comL munities of Sokobolou and Yokiri Ijaw federated communities have lauded the planned visit of President Goodluck Jonathan to flag-off

the N16 billion Export processing Zone (EPZ) project in Delta State The leaders were opposed to another group from both communities who had earlier urged the President not to perform the flag-off ceremo-

ny because the Ijaw stakeholders were not carried along. They said the project will boost the economy of the state and Nigeria in general. In a statement yesterday by representatives of the communities led by Hon. Larry O. Adanike, they frowned at an earlier publication in some national dailies, saying there was crisis over the project. According to them, the authors of the said statement in which they asked President Goodluck Jonathan not to perform the flag-off ceremony of the project does not have the mandate of the constituted authorities of the two communities. “The Sokobolou and Yokiri communities therefore urge Mr. President to ignore calls on him to abort the ground breaking ceremony of the gas project and proceed to do same if that is part of his itinerary. “Agreed that there are issues pending and yet to be resolved on the proposed gas project in which the communities are host, the communities are also making effort with the government in order to reach an amicable resolution”, the leaders explained. Consequently, the leaders directed that anyone who is aggrieved over the proposed gas project should ventilate such grievance through the constituted authorities. “The Sokobolou and Yokiri communities and the larger Ogulagha kingdom have proven to be respectable host of previous multi-Billion Dollars federal Government/NNPC shell investments in the forcados Yokiri oil fields without hitch. We intend to maintain this peaceful stance for peace to reign at all times”, said the leaders in their press statement. They however called on the federal and state governments to resolve the pending issues “bordering on the proper naming of the project, formal inauguration and integration of our inter-face committee into the main stream project”. They pleaded with the state government to carry Ijaw along in the project execution activities.

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74 Tuesday, May 13 , 2014

For The Record

Nigerian economy and the fu Text of a paper delivered by Ahmed ’Tunde Popoola, Managing Director/CEO of CRC Credit Bureau at the 10th NASFAT Youth Conference, on Thursday, April 10, 2014 at the National Mosque auditorium, Abuja, FCT. INTRODUCTION UR discussion today on the Nigerian economy is right on target as this has been the focus of national discourse in the last few days dwarfing even the on-going national conference. Hence this would not have come at a better time. On Sunday April 6, 2014, the Federal Government of Nigeria released the new rebased GDP which now put the Nigeria’s GDP at US$510 billion or about N80 trillion . This singular act has situated the Nigerian economy as the biggest in Africa and the 26th in the world. The rebasing has finally laid to rest, the controversy over the actual size and ranking of our economy. It was also the week when the two Houses of the National Assembly passed the 2014 Appropriation Bill into law. From the rebased GDP, it makes sense to set out the fundamental implications of the new reality. Nigeria is the biggest economy in Africa with a GDP of US$510 billion. Our per capita income has moved up to $2,688, which still places us on 121st position. The per capita income position is an indication of an economy with low productivity. The components of our national output and production, which had always put agriculture at over 30 per cent, showed that agric is now 24 per cent, oil and gas at 14 per cent, telecommunications at 8 per cent, services at 50 per cent and manufacturing at seven per cent. This new statistics depicted us as an economy moving away from a factordriven to knowledge or service-driven economy. The rebasing of our GDP has also done one thing: it has provided us with the impetus and the stimulant to see ourselves as a big economy. Hopefully, it also should be able to further improve the attraction of foreign directive investment provided we are able to put together the other important factors especially appropriate policy and conducive investment climate. This is an affirmation that Nigeria is the place to be. And the favourable, positive factors are there to achieve far much more than what we have recorded-huge population, youthful demographics, and large market. With an estimated population of about 174.5 million and growing at an average of 2.379 per cent per annum, Nigeria population, which makes us the most populous country in Africa and 47 per cent of West Africa population, would exceed 300 million by 2050 and place us as the fourth most populous nation on earth. Nigeria demographic characteristics are as interesting as it is scary due to its dominantly youthful population. About 43.8 per cent or 76 million people of the 174.5 million Nigerians are below 15 years while about 19.3 per cent are between ages 15-24. The implication is that over 63 per cent or 110 million Nigerians are under 25 years. To confirm the youthfulness nature of the population, Nigeria’s median age is 17.9 years. This feature of our population would likely continue for a long time. Nigeria is a country blessed not only with huge human resources but also with natural resources. Nigeria is the largest producer of crude oil in Africa and also has the seventh largest crude oil export in the world with a daily production capacity of over 2.5 million barrels per day. We are the 28th largest gas producer in the world and may be the second fastest growing gas producer in the world. But as an oil dependent economy, substantial revenues of government are derived from oil and gas which also account for over 90 per cent of the country’s foreign exchange earnings. Apart from oil and gas, Nigeria has thirtyfour other unexploited mineral resources. With democracy and the pursuit of a free enterprise economy, we have given impetus to free ownership of means of production and equal opportunities to all who may wish to embark on their own private initiatives. The size of the Nigerian economy through its newly calculated GDP, the growth of the GDP over the last decade and the nature of our youthful demographic all provide a beautiful outlook for Nigeria.

per cent in 1980 to 14 per cent in 2008. Poverty was halved worldwide in twenty years from 43 per cent in 1990 to 21 per cent in 2010. Most countries of the world, with the few exception that are in wars and local crisis, achieved remarkable progress. Why is Nigeria’s poverty rate moving up and not down to align with the trend in the world? Why are we moving against the tide in the fight against poverty?

The Reality of Our Economy aQuality of Life Our GDP growth in the last one decade has been between 6 and 9 per cent, making it one of the fastest growing economies in the world. This tempo of growth was sustained between 2007 and 2009 when most economies of the world were going through recession and despite the challenges we had in our capital market and the banking system. As a confirmation of the attractiveness of Nigeria for investment, the United Nations Conference on Trade and Investments, for the second year running for 2012 and 2013, has ranked Nigeria as the number one destination for investments in Africa and as having the fourth highest returns in the world. But the World Bank in its May 2013 Nigerian Economic Report stated that the impressive GDP growth is neither capable nor sufficient to reduce poverty in the country. The per capita income of $2,688 after the rebasing still makes us a low productivity economy. It indicates an economy that is not performing to optimum; an economy where an average output per person is unacceptably low. This is where the

Popoola issue lies. Nigeria remains a paradox. The critical issues relating to quality of life is at variance with the optimistic statistics of an N80 trillion economy and the impressive annual growth of GDP. There seems to be a serious disconnect between growth, poverty reduction and human development. This brings us back to the basic old question in the economic literature: which is more important or more appealing between economic growth and economic development? What is the essence of growth that does not improve the quality of life of the generality of the citizens of the country? Of what use is the concept of per capital income when income inequality is high? I align myself with the development economists who hold the view that economic growth that does not translate to improved living conditions, greater prosperity, and higher life expectancy is a mirage. The various indices used to measure quality of life do not give cheery news of our growth. The UNDP 2013 Human Development Index said it all. Nigeria occupied 153rd position out of the 187 economies in overall standard of living in 2013. We ranked 4th on Global Index on Modern Slavery beating only India, China and Pakistan. Life expectancy at birth remains low at 52.3 years. Official unemployment is about 24 per cent but when we realize that 522,650 graduates were shortlisted for interview to fill 4,556 vacancies in the elite cadre of the Nigerian Immigration Service, we should know that the official unemployment rate of 24 per cent is a gross understatement. The content of growth shows low employment elasticity with employment not keeping pace with growth expansion of the labour force. It has been a jobless growth. Income inequality at 0.49 is among the highest in the world with 65 per cent of assets in the hands of 20 per cent of the population. High inequality limits opportunity for poor people to benefit from growth. The most perplexed of them all is the growth in the rate of poverty among Nigerians. The whole world set an agenda to half poverty by the year 2020 as number one of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). The World Bank in its May 2013 Nigerian Economic Report highlighted that the number of Nigerians living in poverty was increasing too rapidly. This description was corroborated by statistical evidence. For example, 28.1 per cent or about 17.7 million Nigerians were in poverty, earning less than the proverbial one dollar a day in 1980. This had moved to 67 per cent or 112 million people by 2012. Poverty fell in China from 77

ENTREPRENEURSHIP AND PRIVATE SECTOR DEVELOPMENT Nigeria has been described as an entrepreneurial nation. The 2012 Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) confirmed Nigeria as very high in terms of the desire to explore available opportunities for starting a business and for possessing the self confidence to start one. The survey shows that Nigerians have high perceptions about the presence of good opportunities for starting a business and also believe that they have the skills and knowledge necessary to start a business. The study confirms that more Nigerians pursue entrepreneurial activity due to perceived opportunities than out of necessity. Nigeria also exhibited one of the lowest levels of fear of failure in the world indicating the readiness to start and run a business without fear of failure. It is interesting to note that Nigerian youths are excited about entrepreneurship and entrepreneurial opportunities. About 82% of Nigerian youths perceive a good opportunity for starting a business while 86% believe that they have the skills and knowledge necessary to start a business. The Nigerian experience is an interesting phenomenon. As a country endowed with abundant natural resources, one would have expected a leaning towards the theoretical postulation that entrepreneurial efforts and activities tend to be low in a natural resource-abundance economy, as rent-seeking is always pervasive and there is always no incentives to strive. But this seems not to be the case for Nigeria. Interest in entrepreneurship may have to do with the level of economic development. Development economists contend that entrepreneurial activity declines with the stages of development. GEM classifies economies as factor-driven, efficiency-driven or innovative-driven. This categorization is based on the World Economic Forum (WEF)’s Global Competitiveness Report, which identifies these three phases of economic development based on GDP per capital and the share of exports comprising primary goods. Nigeria is classified a factor-driven economy, dominated by subsistence agriculture and extractive businesses with a heavy reliance on unskilled labour and natural resources with the attendant implications. It may therefore be the case that entrepreneurial activity is high because of our level of development. The recent outcome of the rebasing exercise has pointed to the fact that we are on the path of leaving the factordriven economies and joining the efficiency or knowledge-driven economies of the world. However, Nigerians enthusiasm seems not to be supported by available infrastructure and environmental attractiveness. There are minimum requirements to succeed as an entrepreneurial nation. It is not sufficient that citizens are passionate about working for themselves and striving to be successful entrepreneurs. They must be empowered. Nigeria is confronted with the challenges of its level of development, poor state of socio-economic infrastructure, significant level of security challenges, high level of corruption and low quality of governance, low financial and credit penetration, poor business climate manifesting in such things as delay in obtaining registration and obtaining permits (where necessary), multiplicity of levies, taxes and charges, etc. All these conspire to make it difficult for interested persons to successfully start and run their businesses. The 2012 GEM report showed that in Nigeria, only 16 per cent of new businesses survived beyond 42 months. The reasons are not farfetched. The Doing Business 2014 exposed the weak nature of our situation and the frustration that Nigerians go through in starting and running a business. Enumerating the overall ease of doing business among 189 economies in the world, Nigeria ranked 147. South Africa (41st), Botswana (56th), Ghana (67th), Ethiopia (125th) and Kenya (129th) all feared better from the sub-Saharan Africa. In specific, the 2014 position showed that in starting a business, Nigeria ranked 122 out of 189 economies as it takes an average of 28 days and compliance with about eight procedures. Access to reliable and affordable electricity, is vital for business. Yet in Nigeria, Doing Business 2014 finds that getting electricity requires eight procedures and takes an average of 260 days, placing Nigeria at 185 out of 189 economies ranked on the ease of getting electricity. These indices point to the fact that starting a business is characterized by costly, duplicated and cumbersome processes. Significantly, Nigeria did not witness material improvement over the last ten years in most of the indices except in access to credit. Nigeria had an impressive growth in access to credit by ranking 13 out of 189 economies on the ease of getting credit. The

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uture generation availability of credit information made possible by the existence of licensed private credit bureaus and the continuous strengthening of legal rights for borrowers and lenders make this possible. For entrepreneurship to meet the aspirations of our political leaders in terms of serious wealth creation, employment generation and poverty alleviation, a lot still needs to be done. But as an economy trying to imbibe and uphold the tenets of western democracy and with a posture of free enterprise, we do not have many options; we just need to do the basic to promote entrepreneurship. b.FISCAL POLICY For over a decade, the Nigeria fiscal policy has been such that it is not designed to meet the aspirations of the ordinary citizen. Considering the level of the country’s development, and the urgent need to address issues such as poverty, build socio-economic infrastructure, enhance the quality of life and living through sound education and health services, one expected that the yearly budgets would give more to capital expenditure. But the reverse has been the case. At the national level, the share of capital expenditure in our budget has consistently been below 30 per cent and much lower in actual implementation. How then do we build the economy for tomorrow if we consume over 70 per cent of our public resources today. We acknowledge that some states such as Lagos, Edo and Akwa Ibom have reversed this trend. I wish to submit that in preparing the Nigerian economy for tomorrow and for the future generation, these three fundamental issues must be addressed. For emphasis, these are: bringing down the level of poverty and inequality; promoting policies that massively make it easy to start and run a business; and Instituting a fiscal policy and public expenditure management that make more funds available for the provision of critical socio-economic infrastructure. DRIVERS OF GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT I believe that Nigeria government needs to pay more attention to how we can empower our citizens who are desirous of making a legitimate and honest living. We need to bring down the level of unemployment and rate of poverty which have reached alarming and unacceptable levels. We need to pay more attention to the drivers of economic development. These include: quantity and quality of labour, capital formation, land and natural resources, entrepreneurship and managerial and organizational capabilities. The basic issues that will shape the future of our economy, on which a lot of attention is required, therefore, include the following: Education and Health We all agree that the Nigerian educational system is in crisis and unless this is taken up as such, the future of the Nigerian economy and the youths is in jeopardy and we may continue to live in hopes and potentials that are never realized. All nations of the world have agreed on the importance of human capital as national asset. But Nigeria has done little to put action into this reality. And the issues that confront us on education are too numerous. Underfunding and infrastructure are basic problems. Producing secondary and tertiary school leavers who cannot write is doing a lot of damage to the future of the affected citizens and the country. A lot of states in Nigeria still do automatic promotion in the public primary and secondary schools with clear implication for the future. There is dearth of universities and other tertiary institutions. With just 107 universities servicing 174.5 million people, we will continue to have crisis in the admissions of students into the universities. The curricular of our educational system still demand an overhaul; it is tailored towards the old need of producing graduates for the public service and it is not practical. As a nation with focus on free enterprise, the school curriculum at all levels should be to produce graduates who are able to start and run businesses. Education remains one of the most critical areas to revolutionalize for the Nigerian economy to achieve the quality and bounds that we dream of. Governance and accountability Every day, we wake up to read about issues that make one sad on the conduct of governance and lack of accountability among public office holders. The leadership challenge probably supersedes most other issues that we have. And there is a school of thought that belief that if we get our leadership right, all other challenges would be confronted. Nigeria remains on top on the Corruption Index list. Lack of accountability, misuse of office, acting above the law, impunity, etc are issues that we have to confront. We need a serious re-orientation, just as we need to get credible people to handle our affairs. Socio-economic Infrastructure Infrastructure deficit remains a major issue. And it is in all facetsenergy & power, transportation, health, etc. The sound footing of our economy in the future is dependent on the availability and efficiency of our key socio-economic infrastructure. An

economy that operates in the dark cannot achieve optimum. A country where productive activities and movement shut down at 5pm daily cannot achieve its potentials. If we solve the problem of energy and power, it has the potential to significantly reduce youth unemployment and boost our production. If our means of transportation makes it safe and easy to transport ourselves and goods, then we can boast of an economy that can compete. Security There cannot be an economic prosperity in the face of insecurity. The future economy of Nigeria depends on the peace and stability of the country. For the future generation to inherit a prosperous nation, we have to bequeath to them a secured nation where people can move around and live without religion and tribal killings or other forms of insecurity such as armed robbery and kidnapping or discrimination. Financial system’s depth, stability and development The financial system is a key aspect of a functioning and virile economy. The major role of the financial system in an economy like ours is to strengthen both production and domestic demand. In simple term, producers (entrepreneurs) should have access to cheap, the right mix and the right amount of finance. Consumers should also have the capacity for effective demand through access to cheap and right amount to fund their desired consumption. It has always been canvassed that the Nigerian banking system has not been supporting businesses especially the SMEs. The reality is that Nigeria is faced with low financial and credit penetration with a lot of bankable citizens not having access to banking services and a lot more denied access to finance. For the future, there is the need to enhance financial inclusion and the current efforts of the Central Bank to foster financial inclusion and promote electronic payments system are in line with international direction and the future of transaction management. Access to finance is curtailed by lack of access to financial services, absence of robust credit infrastructure such as credit bureau and collateral registry and the legal system that supports creditor rights and easy repayment terms. If banks are going to be lending in the dark, it will not promote or encourage lending to small businesses and consumers. The legal system has to be strengthened and collateral registry has to be established to complement the wonderful performance of the licensed credit bureaus which had solely been responsible for the improved ranking of Nigeria to 13th position in the ease of accessing finance in 2014 Doing Business. In addition, for start-ups to have access to credit, may demand direct government intervention through series of measures, incentives and schemes such as grants, direct loans, loan guarantees, and interest rate subsidies. The activities of the Small Business Administration (SBA) in the USA are a good model to follow. Though I do not support subsidies because hardly do they reach their intended targets and recipients, but I think it may be worthwhile for start-ups to access finance through this media. Another major area of the financial system that needs support is the capital market. Our capital market is shallow and heavily concentrated in few sectors such as banking, oil and gas and

Popoola

conglomerates. There is the need to make the capital market encouraging for companies and for SMEs so that access to long term capital as equity and bonds can be deepened. There is no successful strong economy without a strong capital market. Building enduring institutions and conducive macroeconomic environment Nigeria is an entrepreneurial economy. With the adoption of the American style of economic and political systems, we have to create a macroeconomic environment that supports enterprise development and private sector where citizens can engage in legitimate private endeavours. Our legal system and other institutions must run without personal interests and with equal access and opportunities. Registration of business, work permit, land and property ownership, payment of taxes and rates, etc must be simplified. People must have access to public institutions and public offices with ease. 4.CONCLUSION The Nigerian economy is no doubt going to be a major one in the future. All the features suggest that the future is bright for the young generation. As youths, it is your time to get ready and seize the momentum. Furthermore, a lot of efforts, actions and commitments have gone into enhancing the investment environment to make the economy be driven by the private sector. Few examples of these include special funds in form of grants and loans with low finance charges, some pockets of government policies to incentivize interest in certain specific sectors, privatization, some legislations, and fiscal incentives in some states and at the federal level, etc. These phenomenal enlarge free enterprise. We are in the wake of an economic renaissance with an array of policies to modernize farming and make it commercially viable, the reforms in the financial services industry towards financial inclusion and promotion of financial infrastructure, the new attempt on power reform, sustainable democratic governance, positive demographics, high foreign direct investment inflows, various efforts in building capacity and providing funds for selfemployment and entrepreneurship, etc. As a factor-driven economy, Nigeria is striving to migrate to an efficiency-driven economy. It is an economy with high growth prospects and still far away from maturity. Those going into entrepreneurial activities and self-employment now are going to be the major beneficiaries of the changing business climate, the array of government incentives and initiatives, the enhanced demand and the possible effects of globalization. Government still needs to do a lot more to foster growth and development in the high growth areas of our economy such as services and industry. For us to leave behind us the status of a factor-driven economy, we must strengthen our institutions, provide infrastructure, enhance the macroeconomic environment and actively promote quality health and primary/secondary education. To migrate to a knowledge-driven economy and join a country like South Africa, we have to pay attention to higher education and training, labour market efficiency, good market efficiency, financial market development, innovation and technological development. Moreover, we are currently living in the best time in all of human history for achieving financial independence and success. As a result of new information and knowledge, technological innovations, globalization and increasing customer demand, there are more opportunities today than it has ever been for me and you to achieve financial independence and become wealthy. And most nations, go through this experience, only once in a generation. I believe that Nigeria is in that mode now. Nigeria youth should not allow this phase to elude them. First, it will be wrong for you to continue to look at the challenges rather than the opportunities. The very smart ones among you will concentrate on how to get the best of what we have rather than embarking on lamentation. As you might be aware, the world is seen differently, depending on the lenses with which you are looking at it. It is your choice to be an optimist or to be a pessimist; to see the opportunities or the challenges. But optimists will see the great opportunities and prepare themselves for it. Because luck is opportunity met with preparation. Those among you who would benefit from the prosperity of the future will be those who would have armed themselves to be able to take the advantage when it comes. As we move to become a service/knowledge economy, accompanied by improved governance and the rule of law, the service industry will thrive the more. In a service economy and in a free enterprise economy, entrepreneurship thrives. Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) would be the major beneficiaries. Much more, professionals and highly skilled across all professions people will thrive – technology, engineering, ICT, health, accounting and business, law, real estate, education. You therefore need to develop your skills and competencies. Furthermore, the preparation for the future also entail having determination and ‘can-do-attitude’. Those who will be successful in the future would realise the importance of steadfastness and focus. I thank you for your rapt attention.

76 MARKET REPORT Tuesday, May 13, 2014

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MarketReport EQUITY MARKET SUMMARY

AS AT 12-05-2014

PRIMERA AFRICA www.primera-africa.com

Tuesday, May 13, 2014 77

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MArKeT INdICATOrS

AS AT 12-05-2014

PrIMerA AFrICA

Market records modest gain to open the week By Bukky Olajide

He equities market closed T yesterday, on a positive note, as Nigerian Stock exchange [NSe] All Share Index [ASI] appreciated by 0.02 per cent to close at 38,560.69 basis points, compared with the depreciation of 0.22 per cent recorded previously. Its Year-to-date (YTd) returns currently stands at 6.71 per cent. Market breadth closed positive as CUTIX leads 29 gainers against 25 losers topped by NASCON at the end of yesterday’s session- an improved performance when compared with previous outlook. Market turnover closes positive as volume traded appre-

ciated by 1.33 per cent against 1.33 per cent upbeat recorded in previous session. Access, Guaranty, and First Bank were the most active to boost market turnover. Nigerian Breweries and Guaranty top market value list. For sectoral indices, industrial records 0.59 per cent to emerge the most supportive sectoral performance among others while NSe Insurance is the most hit with -0.75 per cent loss recorded today. For corporate earnings, Uniondicon, in its first quarter of 2014 earnings report, records positive growth of 19.6 per cent in its revenue with positive growth of 21.5 per cent in its bottom-line.

Shareholders laud Nestle’s corporate governance, improved dividend HAreHOlderS of Nestle Scommended Nigeria Plc, yesterday He attributed the the company’s corporate governance principles and robust dividend payout, even as they approved the firm’s final dividend of N24.00kobo per fifty kobo ordinary share due to every investor of the company for the 2013 financial year. The company had earlier paid an interim dividend of N1.50kobo, putting the total dividend payout for 2013 to N25.50kobo per ordinary share. reviewing the company’s performance during the 45th yearly general meeting of the company in lagos yesterday, the Chairman of the company, david Ifezulike explained that the company increased its dividend by 28 per cent, compared to N20.00 kobo declared in 2012. He pointed out that revenue increased to N133 billion, from N116.7 billion achieved in 2012 while profit for the year rose from N25 billion in 2012 to N26 billion during the year under review. Ifezulike added that the percentage increase in revenue was 14 per cent while profit grew by four per cent. He attributed the improved performance to the staff commitment, wise business decisions taken by the company and other measures put in place to safeguard the company against the toils of the hard economic and political environment in the country occasioned by incessant killings especially in the northern part. To consolidate on the performance, as well as increase its market share, Ifezulike explained that the company has con-

improved performance to the staff commitment, wise business decisions taken by the company and other measures put in place to safeguard the company against the toils of the hard economic and political environment in the country occasioned by incessant killings especially in the northern part

cluded arrangement to commence ground breaking and foundation laying of its new Nestle Waters factory, located in Abaji near Abuja this month. The chairman said the new factory, which occupies 14.13 hectares will cost N4.6billion, adding that it has great potential for future expansion. “As the leading healthy hydration company in Nigeria, the new investment underpins our strong belief in the potential of local markets and resilience of the Nigerian economy. I can confidently say that Nestle is ready to face the headwinds which await us in 2014 and the year after, and to grasp the many possibilities this changing world is offering. “Our company has the right mindset and structures. We have the right action plans in place to deliver solid results in the short term and in the long term and above all, Nestle has the right people. Nestle Nigeria has great future ahead of it and I encourage you to play an active part in this future as our shareholder.” He advised.

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78 PERSPECTIVE Tuesday, May 13, 2014

Fayemi vs Fayose: Between political expediency and moral exigency (2) By John Ajayi Continued from yesterday Bamidele, his emergence as flagFheOR bearer was a forgone conclusion since decamped from his former political party, the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), the platform which gave him the Ekiti Central Senatorial District slot at the House of Representatives. Though a former accolite of JKF, he naturally felt embittered and unhappy with his erstwhile political co-travellers, hence, he decided to jump ship notwithstanding persuasions and pleadings to the contrary. Since he picked the LP ticket, Bamidele has left no one in doubt that he is poised for the governorship contest. While he has embarked on his campaign with all energies and political sagacity acquired over the years through his days as an activist, he has been cautiously treading Ekiti political turf with some level of political decency but has once in a while been throwing jabs at the least expected quarters. His recent attack and vitriolics on his kinsmen and political mentor, former Ekiti State governor Otunba Niyi Adebayo, was seen in most quarters as quite unbecoming. However, anyone who is no stranger to politics and politicking in this clime will see the development as in sync with the tradition of our politics. For Fayemi, the contest is such that requires all the wits and intrigues that it deserves. Although the urbane intellectual politician has truly made issues the bane and focal point of his campaigns, the debonair war strategist appears to have turned full circle as a politician of no mean repute. Not only has he been visible on every political platform to woo the votes of the Ekiti electorate, despite huge achievements in his first term, he has doggedly and cleverly moved beyond old political divides, mending ways with old political foes who actually share in the collective good of the Ekitis. Fayemi’s recent political master-stroke in wining erstwhile Governor Segun Oni to APC is nonetheless a well thought-out political strategy. Getting an Ekiti political heavyweight like Oni, a man without any known moral, social or political baggage, into the bargain is an indication of true political heroism. The governor who took his political campaign to the doors of his former rival in his Ifaki-Ekiti hometown recently got a rousing welcome by its politically articulate indigenes. Receiving Fayemi and his entourage, Oni was quintessentially at his best. No pretence, no deceit, no conceit. He told his guests and those crowd the reason that Ekiti State should not be thrown to the dogs. According to Oni, “I take the decision to support Fayemi because the future of Ekiti State is the most paramount more than any material gains. Today, we are erecting a new platform to build the future for the state. To us, the future is paramount in our hearts and what our children would say about us. “Though, we might have a past that was rough, but we have to let the past be past. We must think of who can take the right decisions for us to build a prosperous future for the state”. The people of the state, Oni further explained, “must ask themselves what type of legacy they want to bequeath to the next generations, adding “we must think of how we can make our tomorrow better than our past and today”. What else can one say? The thoughts and non-thoughts of Oni, a man of gentle mien but solid strength of character perfectly encapsulates the thinking of all well meaning Ekitis, home and abroad. For those who do not understand the real personae and the true essence and character of an Ekiti, being principled and self-respecting with good naturedness is second to none. You may be quick to adjudge an average Ekiti as ‘arrogant,’ yet, you cannot deny him or her the hon-

our he deserves when it comes to being principled and righteous on any issue that bothers on integrity of purpose. The western education which the mass of Ekiti have acquired irrespective of the limitations of birth and social milieu will readily come to play when ever situation and circumstances demand. It is on the basis of this that the forthcoming election will be assessed and determined. Of the three major gubernatorial hopefuls, Fayose, the most voluble and politically vivacious ostensibly because of the Aso Rock backing is a candidate that has lots of questions to answer the Ekiti electorate who he once served and disappointed! If our politics were to be refined, an Fayose would have long been consigned to the dustbin of political history. How does one explain the arguments of his newly recruited loyalists who were once his opponents in the last “controversial” primary election of his party. Though some of them once sworn never to work for him in his bid to return to the top position, they later gave up on their words as they were ‘forced’ or whipped into line by a desperate and confused presidency. Anyhow, that is still politics for you. However, what is as certain as daylight about the next month election is the strength of character, personality and the pedigree of each of the gladiators. The Ekitis are too knowledgeable and forthright enough to allow a political charlatan or ‘garage’ economists to lord it over them. Not even the intimidating power of the presidency can prevent the application of the native intelligence of the Ekitis. For the political umpire and those beating the drums of war as regards the forthcoming election in the state, they should be guarded and guided by the immortal words of Mathew Arnold. He it was who had cautioned on what really governs politics and saves or destroys states. The nation’s leaders cannot afford to plunge Ekiti State into an unnecessary war because of cheer desperation to capture the votes of the people. The earlier these apostles of political violence, war-mongers and election riggers realised this simple truth the better. Indeed, the die is cast! • Concluded •Ajayi is a Lagos-based journalist

Restitution in Christian living By Anthony Otaru E are living in an era that is plagued with changes in virtually every sphere of life. Unfortunately too, this gale of changes has infiltrated the church. Unlike the disciples of old, who continued steadfastly in the apostle’s doctrine and “earnestly contended for the faith once delivered unto the saints,” many, who are today professing the Christian faith hardly have any hold on the teachings of the word of God. Important doctrines of the Bible like restitution among others have been misconceived, misinterpreted and misapplied. Consequently, the society has been at the receiving end with vices multiplying daily since people think that they are neither accountable to their fellow men nor to God for their wicked acts. It is against this backdrop, therefore, that this article examines the place of restitution in Christian living. According to the Oxford Advanced Learners’ Dictionary, restitution is “an act of giving back something that was lost or stolen to its owner.” Going further, it adds that restitution is also “payment, usually money for some harm or wrong that somebody has suffered.” From scriptural perspective, restitution is an act of making amends for wrongs done against our fellow men. It involves restoring stolen or misappropriated things, properties or persons to their rightful owners; paying back just debts, giving back where one has defrauded, making confessions to the offended and apologizing to all those slandered so as to have a conscience devoid of offence toward God and men. (Genesis 20:1-8, 14-18; 2Samuel 12:1-6; Proverbs 6:30, 31; Matthew 5:23, 24; Acts 23:1-5; 24:16; Philemon). The doctrine of restitution is binding on all Christians today as it was for the saints of old. Christ affirmed that he never came to abolish the law but, rather, to fulfill it. And as Christians we are enjoined to continue in the word of God as a distinguishing mark of true discipleship (John 8:31). The disdain for this important teaching has led to the cheapening of life as it were, as men kill their fellow men or engage in human trafficking all in a bid to satisfy selfish interests. Many Christians consider restitution as ‘old testament stuff’ and this has fuelled the orgy of unbridled profligacy and unparalleled corruption as being witnessed in our society today. But the case of Zacchaeus in the Book of St. Luke, chapter 19 proves them wrong. Zacchaeus was “the chief among the publicans and he was rich.” The publicans were the common sinners of their day. Certainly, being a tax collector, Zacchaeus had forcefully taken what did not belong to him; he had misappropriated public funds. However, his encounter with Christ brought repentance but how

would the world (including those he had defrauded) know that such a change had taken place in his life? In fact, on seeing Christ sitting at table with Zacchaeus, the people “murmured, saying, that he was gone to be a guest with a man that is a sinner.” This means that although he had received Christ, something was still missing, that is, ‘repairing the wrongs’ that he did in the past. Immediately, Zacchaeus stood up and declared that he would restore ‘fourfold’ all that he forcefully took from them. His action was applauded by Christ who also declared that salvation had truly come to his house. In making such declaration, Zacchaeus was not acting by instinct. He was simply fulfilling God’s demand for restitution. In Leviticus 6:4, God commanded that a man who is guilty of fraud in any form should ‘restore that which he took violently away, or the thing which he hath deceitfully gotten, or that which was delivered him to keep, or the lost thing which he found.’ Even before this commandment, restitution had been practised by Abimelech, Jacob and others. The teaching on restitution can be applied to different areas of a Christian’s life. We live in a world where people steal from the public with reckless abandon. Political office holders, public servants and the private sector, are all guilty of this. When they are not stealing public funds directly, they engage in the award of fictitious contracts, which sometimes are over-inflated. Some even convert public properties to personal use. Others like security agents, teachers and lawyers engage in extortion of money from the ordinary people. Traders, businessmen and women, manufacturers engage in dubious practices like faking of products, which they sell as originals. There are robbers, who snatch people’s wives, money, properties, children etc. Some even commit adultery with their neighbours’ wives under the pretence of giving them jobs and political appointments. There are those that specialize in examination fraud. There are also those, who kill for money or position. Some others neither admit errors in past relationship nor seek forgiveness where they have hurt others; they consider their harsh words, quick tongue or cutting remarks or perhaps outright character assassination as nothing. The list of these evils is endless. Surprisingly, these people still belong to religious organisations where they parade themselves as Christians! Heaven is a prepared place for prepared people and nothing sinful can be found there. Most sins of men are against God

and their fellow men. When we pray to God for forgiveness we must also make our ways right with our fellow men as the only way to ensure having a conscience free from condemnation and getting to heaven at last. Difficult to be practised, isn’t it? God demanded it; perhaps the prospect of restitution should serve as a deterrent to the sons of men living recklessly. It is to check/curb any excesses in human relationships, thus prompting a healthier, peaceful and godly co-existence among people. It is clear from the encounter of Zaccheaus with Christ that restitution is neither synonymous with salvation nor is it a substitute for it. Restitution is consequent upon the salvation experience and should be done prayerfully and in humility. However, complex cases of restitution that involve others who have not yet repented should be approached with wisdom. In such cases, counsel should be sought from spirit-filled men of God on how to go about them. There are manifold blessings that accrue to the Christian who engages in restitution. Restitution frees one from the accusation of the devil and from all condemnation and guilt. The individual has peace with God and with his fellow men. He has greater assurance to approach the altar of God to pray and receive answers (Matt 5:23, 24). He has boldness to combat Satan and his agents (Acts 19:14-17). The testimony of restitution could convict others, thus leading to their conversion. The need for genuine repentance and restitution today cannot be over-emphasised especially as we see the signposts to the close of the age all around us. Any believer who aspires for heaven must hurriedly embrace this teaching and daily consecrate his/her life to the service of the Master in holiness and integrity. Sinners should no longer tarry but should repent of all their sins and make right all their wrongs so as to escape the damnation of hell. Have you repented of your sins? Do you have any outstanding restitution to make? Summon up courage and make it. Ask God for his grace and he will see you through in Jesus’ name. Don’t hide your past evils under your garment. If you do, they shall surely be uncovered over there! • Otaru writes for The Guardian from Abuja

Delta 2015: Need for equity, good conscience and democratic principles (2) By Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe Continued from yesterday HE state has produced three executive governors namely, Chief Felix Ibru (an Urhobo), Chief James Ibori (an Urhobo) and the incumbent governor, Dr. Emmanuel Iweta Uduaghan (an Itsekiri). These three personalities have done their bits and it is a truism that the Urhobo ethnic nationality may have benefited one way or the other from the two past Urhobo governors in the person of Chief Ibori and Chief Ibru. This is not to say that the Urhobo do not deserve Governor Uduaghan’s attention and patronage. But again, leadership credibility and performance in office is individual based and not necessarily the ethnic nationality. That Governor Uduaghan did not reasonably satisfy the yearnings and aspirations of the Urhobo ethnic nationality (as they claim) does not mean that the next governor will not do better irrespective of the senatorial district he or she hails from. Delta North has credible candidates who should not be disenfranchised in the next election. There are some of the aspirants who have for decades blended well politically with their Urhobo associates across board. As it is today, Senator Arthur Ifeanyi Okowa, Honourable Godwin Ndudi Elumelu and Mrs. Ngozi Olejeme are quality materials for the governorship race. Also, the Urhobo axis has credible candidates which include Godspower Orubebe, Chief Great Ogboru and a few others. These aspirants have equal rights to present themselves before the good people of Delta State. The political parties are fielding candidates for the governorship election, especially PDP, APC and the Labour Party. It is strongly rumoured that PDP may present a Delta North governorship candidate while the other two political parties will definitely present Urhobo candidates to fragment the votes. Mid-way, the two Urhobo

candidates may form political alliance to defeat the PDP candidate so as to produce an Urhobo governor in 2015. As good as this permutation may sound, it has its defects which are that the Urhobo will be seen as a people using their numerical strength to oppress the minority in the state. This should not be. UPU should meet with Governor Uduaghan to negotiate and to reach amicable settlement so as to ensure a peaceful and smooth transition of power in the state. However, some political observers say that if an accord is not reached between UPU, PDP and Governor Uduaghan, the UPU insistence on Urhobo Governor in 2015 may hit the rocks because of the might of the ruling party and the class of politicians who have benefited from the Ibori and Uduaghan’s administration in Delta Central and other parts of the state. The league of past and present lawmakers at both state and national assembly levels, past and present commissioners in Ibori and Uduaghan’s administrations as well as other political appointees are likely to back up the decision of Governor Uduaghan and PDP to frustrate the intentions of the UPU, its leadership and those yearning for an Urhobo governor, come 2015. I have always said that politics is an integral part of the “devil’s blue sea”, you never see the bottom of it. The more you look, the less you see in politics. Too many sophisticated meetings and crafty caucus deliberations in politics such that what men say in the day is not what they say at night. Therefore, the battle for the soul of Government House, Asaba, must be done through proper collaboration by key stakeholders. It is not out of place if an Urhobo man becomes the next Governor of Delta and it is not also out of place if a qualified and capable Delta North brother or sister occupies the government house in 2015. Therefore, the two contending groups, Delta Central and Delta North should reason together and negotiate power sharing in terms of portfolio allocation and developmental plans that

would spread across the state. I believe that tribal sentiments should not be the basis of politicking in the 21st century. Tribalism, nepotism and egotism belong to the Stone Age. We should discuss potential and capabilities rather than ethnic nationality or tribalism. An Okowa or an Elumelu or an Olejeme is reasonable and perfect to occupy the seat of governor in our dear state. In the same token, an Ogboru, an Orubebe, a Keyamo, a Dafinone is cool to be the governor. The focus should be: can he or she deliver? What is the past performance record of these candidates? Does any of them show trait of tribalism and nepotism in the past? Is there any of the candidates that truly flows well with other ethnic nationalities in the state? Who among the candidates is a progressive with good track records in governance or public administration? Who among them is likely not going to promote corruption and looting of our treasury? The above hypothetical questions and many more deliberate yardsticks should be developed as template to measure, select and elect the next governor of Delta State. Let us therefore be guided by the precious doctrines of equity, good conscience and sound democratic principles as we nominate and elect the fourth executive governor of the oil rich Delta State of Nigeria. Tribalism, sectionalism, nepotism and egotism are repugnant to equity, good conscience and natural justice and therefore should be relegated to the dust-bin of political irrelevance and adopt the 21st century progressive principles of constitutional democracy. • Concluded •Oghenesivbe, a public affairs and political commentator, is also the National President of the Green White Green Vanguard, a socio-economic and political advocacy group based in Lagos.

Tuesday, May 13, 2014 79

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Law

Quote of the week “Laws are spider webs through which the big flies pass and the little ones get caught.” Honoré de Balzac

NJC, judicial consultants and trajectory of justice Although Section 21 of the Third Schedule of the 1999 Constitution empowers the National Judicial Council (NJC) to recommend to the President and state governors the appointment of some high judicial officers in the country as well as to exercise disciplinary control over such officers, collect, control and disburse all monies, capital and recurrent, for the judiciary, it, however, does not include the power to sit on appeals originating from the decision of the lower courts. That power is reserved for the Court of Appeal. BERTRAM NWANNEKANMA writes that the recent compulsory retirement of some judges over allegations of gross misconduct on the recommendation of the NJC might have opened another controversy in Nigeria’s judiciary because of the alleged roles of retired senior judges, who practise as consultants in fixing judgments.

FOCUS T is the retired President of the Court of Appeal, Imony Justice Ayo Salami, who at the opening cereof the 2014 biennial Law Week of the Nigerian Bar Association, Ilorin branch, spoke on reports of some judges and retired senior judges, who practise as consultants in fixing judgments. Justice Salami alleged that these consultants take money from litigants to give to judges or intimidate judges to pervert justice. Speaking on the summit entitled, ‘A centenary of legal practice in Nigeria: 1914-2014: Legacies and lessons for the next century, Salami said: “It is my respectful view that appeal should be made to these retired senior justices to leave the despicable role of bribing or intimidating judges. They should engage themselves in other respectable vocations. “The judges, who lend themselves to these dishonourable practice of receiving money or lending themselves to pervert the course of justice under the guise of not receiving reward monetary or otherwise, should note that there are other means of checking the excesses. “The problem of corruption in the Nigerian judiciary is real and has eaten deep into the system. It must, however, be noted that it is not all judicial officers that are corrupt and dishonorable. There are some who are clearly identifiable as corrupt but they are protected by the system.” He also said the nobility of the law profession was waning. He stressed that the rot in the judicial system was compounded by the fact that Nigerians generally do not want the truth to be told and whoever told the truth is marked out for destruction. “The members of the Bar (tell) sordid tales about high ranking serving or retired heavyweights who act as arrangees or couriers of rights who reach out to judges to influence or change the course of justice in certain sensitive cases,” Justice Salami said. In very frank comments using his own experience as an example, he illustrated how endangered justice was in Nigeria, adding that members of the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA), who were represented on the Nigerian Judicial Council (NJC) hardly, were standing up for the truth. No doubt, the National Judicial Council (NJC) was established to safeguard the sanctity and the fairness of the judiciary in a country to live up to its mandate. Where impunity reigns, the judiciary is expected by all stakeholders to be above board, no matter what is happening in the polity. The NJC, among other functions, is empowered by Part 1 of the Third Schedule to the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), to handle the complaints made against judges and all other categories of judicial officers and disciplining them. Saddling the NJC with a function of such delicate nature, places it under public scrutiny all the time and informed observers, for veritable reasons, do not also want the body to be enmeshed in what could make the faith the people have in it be shaken. But the once-cherished and revered NJC, came into public odium, when the former Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Aloysius KatsinaAlu and a former President of the Court of Appeal (PCA), Justice Ayo Isa Salami, were rooted against each other to the chagrin of the many stakeholders. The decision of Salami to reject his elevation to the Supreme Court, what ordinarily was a promotion, considered as a Greek gift, became a dance of the absurd when Salami went to the High Court to depose to an affidavit in which he accused Katsina-Alu of interference in the judgment of the Appeal Panel in the Sokoto State Gubernatorial Election. Expectedly, the NJC waded into that embarrassing situation between the two most ranking judicial officers and prevailed on Justice Salami

Justice Mukhtar to withdraw the Court Case with promise to resolve the matter amicably. But that was not to be as Justice Salami was later suspended till he retired early this year. Thus, the thought provoking speech by Justice Salami must have come out of experience having occupied the second -highest position in the Nigerian judiciary as well as being a victim of power play in the NJC. However, the appointment of Justice Aloma Mariam Mukhtar as the first female Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) and by extension the chairman of NJC was expected to bring sanity to the troubled NJC. Expectedly, the reform- oriented CJN started with various reforms, which include the monitoring and discipline of judges and weeding out of unproductive judicial officials. Although some of these reforms were being applauded by many stakeholders, certain recent decisions of the NJC have left many tongues wagging; over allegation of external influences on the NJC by certain retired justices, who act as consultants to the litigants. “This is why despite the disposition of the present Chief Justice to rid the judiciary of these corrupt elements, the efforts are being frustrated,” they said. For instance, the recent suspension of Justice Peter Agumagu, who was sworn-in as the Chief Judge of Rivers State by Governor Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, has provoked several comments from stakeholders, with many calling for the scrapping or unbundling of the NJC. To a certain category of people, the NJC has no business in imposing a candidate on the governor, while others feel that the NJC should have waited for the decision of the court, since the case is pending in court. Another acid test is afoot: the compulsory retirement of Justice Gladys Olotu of the Federal

Justice Olotu High Court. Apparently keeping in line with its extant powers to hear complaints and see to the disciplining of judges, the NJC set up two investigative panels to look into the complaints against Justice Gladys Kpenikpe Olotu. Justice Gladys Olotu and U. J. Inyang of an Abuja High Court were recommended by NJC to President Goodluck Jonathan for compulsory retirement on grounds of gross misconduct. But the matter appears to be heading the Salami way, if NJC does not tread softly on matter of law, whereupon it based its recommendation of compulsory retirement against her. Already, Justice Olotu had filed a Motion Exparte against the NJC before Justice Ademola Adeniyi of Abuja High Court seeking an Order Certiorari for Judicial Review of her suspension and subsequent retirement. Already, the court has granted her leave to pursue the matter. President Goodluck Jonathan, Chief Justice of Nigeria, the National Judicial Council, the Attorney General of the Federation and the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court were all joined as defendants. The court has also ordered parties to maintain status quo and on the strength of that, Justice Olotu has refused to accept any correspondence from her employers. In Olotu’s case, the NJC said she was recommended for compulsory retirement in line with the findings of the Investigative Panel set up by the council on the allegations contained in the petitions against her. The two real allegations are: 1) Justice Olotu failed to deliver judgment for 18 months in a certain case after the final address by all the counsels in the suit had been entered into, as against the constitutional provision that judgments should be delivered within a period of 90 days.

The listing of a former Chief Justice of Nigeria along with other parties in the matter, she handled in Suit FHC/UY/CS/250/20003, as defendants in the fundamental human rights suit, has left many confused. But in an appeal letter to President Goodluck Jonathan date February 28, 2014, in respect of the NJC’s statement of February 27, 2014, Justice Olotu alleged that she was being hunted by a giant and Goliath in the judicial system, who asked her to take a decision in Suit No: FHC/PH/CS/450/2010 in a particular way contrary to her judicial oath and conscience

Justice Olotu, however, while appearing before the three-man investigative panel, graphically showed why the provision could not hold out in her own case. She had started the case in Uyo Division of the Federal High Court and later was transferred to Port Harcourt Division where the court case was later also transferred and concluded by her. But before she could deliver judgment, she was again transferred to the Abuja Division and by rule; she was not supposed to carry the Case File with her. Though, it was one of the allegations against her, contrary to the claim, she left the case file in Port Harcourt as expected. And for her to still deliver judgment on the matter, a Fiat was needed from the Abuja Chief Judge, which was eventually issued. This, however, took time, which was not of her making and she holds she ought not to be held accountable. The second contentious issue was that Justice Olotu entertained a post-judgment matter in Port Harcourt after delivering judgment, which made her functus officio. Justice Olotu explained and argued that the issue totally bordered on Garnishee Proceedings and therefore, she was perfectly in order. Olotu states that Garnishee Proceedings in law allow a party that won in a case to process part or whole of his/their claims where the losing party has filed stay of execution. Despite explanations, NJC still went ahead to recommend her for compulsory retirement. Justice Olotu now seeks the intervention of a common superior - the Courts. If, indeed, the delay in delivering judgment was caused by her transfer and other intervening variables that were outside her control and official time, the court may perhaps be persuaded to set aside that aspect of her indictment. The tricky one may be the Garnishee Proceedings where she argues that the allegations made against her in this regard are issues to be decided by the Appeal Court and not the NJC. On this too, Justice Olotu cited decided cases to show that a judgment creditor can apply for Garnishee Order Nisi to enforce the judgment entered in his favour. One of the cases held that garnishee proceedings are separate proceedings between the judgment creditor and the person or body, who has custody of the assets of the judgment debtor even though it flows from the judgment that

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80 LAW Tuesday, May 13, 2014

LawPeople

“If the misery of the poor be caused not by the laws of nature, but by our institutions, great is our sin.” Charles Darwin, Voyage of the Beagle

Adio: Canvassing for improved welfare for judges By Bertram Nwannekanma and Yetunde Abayomi Ojo HERE is no better place where the popuT lar Latin maxim: “Nemo dat quod non habet”, which means “no one can give what he does not have”, could fit in better than in the Nigeria’s judiciary, where complaints on quality have become the order of the day. Although there are some exceptions to the nemo dat rule, it is, however, much more pronounced in the judiciary, which has been conscientiously or unconscientiously, deprived of funding. Thus, not a few Nigerian lawyers believe that the poor state of the nation’s judiciary could be divorced from the poor funding and working conditions of the judicial officers. One of such personalities is Seni Adio, the Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association’s (NBA) Section on Business Law (SBL) Conference Planning Committee for the eighth edition of the conference slated for May 26 in Lagos. Although the astute commercial lawyer has recognized that a lot of progress has been made over the years, he, however, expects improvement on the welfare of judges, because of the nature of the work, they do. According to him, it would be rather presumptuous to think that being a judge is a glorious thing, the working conditions in the judiciary, is rather pitiable. “Being a judge anywhere, particularly in Nigeria, is a self-less sacrifice because the conditions in which many of our Justices and Judges work are very tough. “Here, the Justices and Judges conduct their research themselves and also write their judgments and rulings themselves, often times, doing so late into the night and early mornings of the following day. “At times, if there is no power, they have to resort to battery powered lamps and, sometimes, even more rudimentary illuminating devices. “Now, juxtapose it with the experiences abroad, where judges have two or three young lawyers working with them as law clerks. These judges abroad have very young lawyers to lighten their workload. Not so here,” he added. Adio’s background: Coming from the lineage of judges, where he experienced first hand, the difficulties, judges in Nigeria encountered in the discharge of their duties, might have influenced his advocacy for the welfare of judges. His father is retired Chief Judge of Oyo State, while his mother was the late Justice Busola Ogunlesi-Adio, a judge of the High Court in Ogun State. Justice Yekini. O. Adio, who sat on the Supreme Court Bench was his uncle. Adio attended Queens College, Taunton, Somerset for his A-Levels and from there, he proceeded to the University of Buckingham in the United Kingdom (UK) where he got my law degree LL.B (Hons). Upon obtaining his Law degree, Adio came back to Nigeria and attended the Nigerian Law School from 1987 to 1988 and was a member of the illustrious law school set of 1988. Thereafter, he did his one year mandatory National Youth Corps Service (NYSC) at the Ministry of Justice, Jos, Plateau State, where he caught Adio his legal teeth.

Being a judge anywhere, particularly in Nigeria, is a self-less sacrifice because the conditions in which many Justices and Judges work are very tough. Here, the Justices and Judges conduct their research themselves and also write their judgments and rulings themselves, often times, do so late into the night and early mornings. His desire to learn more, made him to stay with the late Justice Yekini Olayiwola Adio, his uncle, who was then at the Court of Appeal, Jos Division. Afterwards, he preceded to the United States for his Masters degrees, where he obtained a Master of Laws in Taxation from Boston University School of Law, Boston, Massachusetts, USA. Although, he intended to spend only one year, he ended up being there for many years, where he started private practice. During his stay in the United States of America (U.SA), Adio provided some consulting pieces of advice for companies in Boston, which was the mainstay of commercial law practice, comprising of Biotechnology, Healthcare, HiT e c h , Renewable Energy, Tax and Financial Services (with a bias towards Europe, South and Latin America). On the greatest challenge for commercial law practice in the country, Adio said lack of predictability of outcome when disputes

arose affected the practice in terms of sustaining foreign direct investment and making potential investors too comfortable about the way of risking their capital in this environment. According to him, there is a need for predictability in terms of outcome when disputes arise, that they would get a fair stakes in getting those disputes resolved promptly. “That is one area and a degree of progress has been made in that area through various bodies, including Chartered Institute of Arbitrators, UK and the Lagos Court of International Arbitration (LCIA). Even the Lagos High Court now has a Multi Door system, so there is an orientation towards trying to get disputes resolved justly and quickly and also resolved promptly. On how the activities of Section of Business Law (SBL) impact on government actions and policies, he said, the government too has on occasions tapped into the resources provided by the SBL one of which include, an ongoing legislation at the National Assembly

to bring the current Consumer Protection Act up to today’s standards in terms of addressing various issues that are not addressed in the current statutes, particular prospect to “encouraging” service providers to be good cooperate citizens and in the rare circumstances that they are not, for there to be adequate remedies for people who are victims of those wrong doings. Asked his expectations on the forthcoming Section on Business Law Conference (SBL), Adio is of the view that the conference, with the theme: “Exemplary governance Enhancing economic development in Nigeria”, would present a unique opportunity for stakeholders to address the imperatives of exemplary governance as a platform for enhancing economic development in the country given the fact that the Conference is being held in the penultimate year to Nigeria’s general elections. The conference, he said, “is not intended to be a forum for backslapping or just networking.” Sure, people are encouraged to network, while the 21 committees will be providing very substantive seminars and interactive discussions as well as provide written materials that attendees would jealously guard and take away with them. The astute lawyer and chairman of the SBL’s Committee on Consumer Protection and Products Liability said some of the dignitaries scheduled for the Conference to be declared open by Governor Babatunde Fashola, (SAN) of Lagos State, include the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Aloma Mukhtar, Lord Mark Malloch Brown, former Deputy Secretary General, United Nations, and Vice Chairman of the Soros Investment Funds and NBA President, Okey Wali (SAN).

Tuesday, May 13, 2014 LAW

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LawReport Once arbitral award is prima-facie good on the face of it, court will refuse to set it aside (2) In the Court of Appeal, Lagos Judicial Division, holden at Lagos on Thursday, February 14, 2014. Before Their Lordships: Sidi Dauda Bage, Justice, Court of Appeal; Joseph Shagbaor Ikyegh , Justice, Court of Appeal; Tijjani Abubakar Justice, Court of Appeal, CA/L/895/2012 Between Cel Tel Nigeria — Appellant And Econet Wireless Limited Elta State Ministry Of Finance Incorporated O.O Networks Limited DTSG Ecoshares Limited Bromley Asset Management Limited FBC Assets Limited Akwa Ibom Investment & Industrial Promotion Council Respondents Ibile Holdings Limited First City Telecom Limited LAC Telecom Limited All Speaks Nigeria Limited S & D Ventures Limited Oceanic Securities International Limited Boye Olusanya Tunde Hassan-Odukale Conoor Investments Limited Bolaji Balogun Broad Communications Limited Oba Otudeko Foluke Otudeko Ato Adeboye— Defendants st

T was further prefaced in the 1 respondent’s Iarbitral brief that the grounds for intervening in an award for the purpose of setting it aside must be as provided by the ACA and UNCITRAL Model Law on International Commercial Arbitration 1985 (the Model Law). Especially section 34 of the ACA replicated with Article 5 of the Model Law and emphasized by Law and Practice of Arbitration and Conciliation in Nigeria 199, page 269, to the effect that where the ACA does not provide for the intervention of the court, there should be no intervention with the arbitral award; that the court below correctly approached the issue when it stated that the grounds for setting aside an arbitral award are as contained in sections 30 and 48 of the ACA. The 1st respondent’s brief further stated that the power to set aside an award for error of law on the face of the award is not lightly exercised, because the court before whom an arbitral award is challenged cannot assume appellate jurisdiction over the award of the arbitral tribunal, and that three conditions must co-exist before arbitral award may be set aside to wit – the alleged error must be on a point of law which was incidental to the matter before the arbitral tribunal, not on a point of law specifically referred to the arbitral tribunal for the determination; that the court looks only on the face of the award and any document actually incorporated within the award, not the pleadings or even the underlying contract, in determining the ground of error of law; and that the error must be material to the arbitrator’s conclusion citing in support of the said submissions the cases of Taylor Woodrow of Nigeria Ltd (supra) at 144 -145, Baker Marina Nigeria Ltd v. Danos and Curole Marina Contractors (2001) 7 NWLR (pt. 712) 337 at 351-362. That the act of constituting the arbitral tribunal was contractual, not judicial, which was, also, to enable rather to frustrate the arbitration process under section 7(3) of the ACA and had nothing to do with waiver by the 1st respondent of the appointment procedure under clause 25 of the Shareholders Agreement; and that, upon the appointment made by one of the appointer’s power to appoint under section 7(3) of the ACA becomes defunct such that the first in time to appoint would be the one that made a valid appointment, therefore, the renewal of the application for appointment made to the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court was not an abuse of process, notwithstanding the first request for appointment was not terminated before the

said renewal; and given that the purport of section 7 of the ACA is to ensure that parties’ agreement to arbitrate is upheld, wherever possible; therefore, the said constitution of the arbitral tribunal by the CJ of the Federal High Court achieved the said objectives and should not be disturbed. It was stressed in argument on the second issues that the Offer Letter Contract arose from the performance terms of clause 17.2.2 of the Shareholders Agreement and that the arbitral tribunal did not assume jurisdiction to decide the parties’ dispute under the Offer Letter Contract but on the performance not otherwise, as the said clauses of the Offer Letter Contract was relevant and contemplated compliance by the parties thereto as was earlier argued under paragraphs 78 and 79 of the 1st respondent’s response at pages 784-785 of the record. The 1st respondent further contended that, even if there was an abuse of process, the remedy was to stay proceedings in the suit and proceed with the arbitration; that the principle of abuse of process does not apply to arbitral proceedings as argued in paragraph 91 of the 1st respondent’s response in pages 788-790 of the record, as arbitral bodies are creatures of the parties’ agreement and do not have inherent power or authority beyond that which is conferred on them by the parties; that public policy would only constitute a ground for setting aside an award in extreme cases, which is not the case here vide Profilati Italia Sri v. PaineWebber Inc. (2001) 1 All ER (Comm) 1066 at paragraph 17; and that the application for a stay of proceedings was not made in favour of the arbitration in issue and is therefore irrelevant. The 1st respondent further argued on the third issue that none of the conditions stipulated by sections 30 and 48 of the ACA for the setting aside of arbitral award was met by the appellant. Consequently, it was urged by the 1st respondent that the fact that the same or similar factual issues underpin multiple claims would not prevent a party from commencing more than one action based on different causes of action, therefore there was no abuse of process and/or waiver/estoppels by the commencement of the action in suit 841 and the concurrent existence of the arbitration proceedings, so the issue should be resolved for the 1st respondent.

Justice Zanaib Bulkachuwa The 1st respondent further argued that the arbitral tribunal merely interpreted clause 17.2.2 of the Shareholders Agreement in the course of which it referred to issues of performance or otherwise of the Offer contract relevant to compliance by the parties with clause 17.2.2. of the Shareholders Agreement that even if there was inconsistency in the process of reasoning by the arbitral tribunal regarding its interpretation of clause 27.7, which the 1st respondent does not concede, it is not a ground to set aside the award; that the appellant’s Ground 5 is an unacceptable invitation to the Court to substitute its own views for the arbitral tribunal’s findings of fact and its interpretation of clause 17 of the Shareholders Agreement in paragraph 316 of the record and should not be accepted by the court. Consequently, it was urged that the appellant having failed to establish that the court below was wrong in its decision on the merits and

also, that Grounds 4-7 of the appellant’s set aside submissions cannot be decided in favour of the appellant, the appeal should be dismissed and the decision of the court below affirmed. The 2nd and 4th respondents’ brief filed on 15.2.13 adopted the issues formulated by the appellant and urged in argument that:“3 The 2nd and 4th Respondents align themselves with the Appellant and adopt the arguments of the Appellant on all the issues formulated for the determination of this Honourable Court as contained in the Appellants” The 6th respondent’s brief filed on 18-3-13 formulated the following single issue for determination-. “Whether the Learned Trial Judge was right in refusing to set aside the award on the ground that the Tribunal misconducted themselves in assuring jurisdiction to entertain the matter” That the designated authority, the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, declined to exercise the power to appoint the arbitral tribunal under clause 25 of the Shareholders Agreement and directed the parties to apply to the court for the appointment of the arbitrators and the 1st respondent so applied by invoking the jurisdiction of the High Court to appoint the arbitrators; and, that it was thereafter that the 1st respondent successfully reapplied to the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court who made the appointment when there was no provision for re-application either in the Shareholders Agreement or in section 7(3)©. Consequently, it was urged that the appointment of the arbitrators by the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court in the circumstance was wrong and amounted to forum shopping which is an abuse of process and, also, it amounted to improper composition of the arbitral tribunal which struck at the jurisdiction of the arbitral to arbitrate the dispute and affords sufficient jurisdictional ground to set aside the award following the cases of MAdukolu and Ors V. Nkemdilim (1962) 2 NSCC 374, R-Benkay Nig. Ltd V. Cadbury Nig. Plc (2012) 3 MJSC185 at 211-212. The 7th and 9th respondents’ brief which was filed on 22-2-13, adopted the appellant’s issues for determination. The 21st respondent’s brief argued further that the power of the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court to appoint arbitrators under clause 25 of the Shareholders Agreement is ministerial, not judicial or quasi-judicial, therefore the issue of functus officio does not arise as it is a default provision intended to assist parties to an arbitration agreement constitute arbitral tribunal, therefore the appellant’s argument that once section 7(3)© of the ACA is triggered, there is no turning back even where circumstances have changed and the appointing authority is willing and able to act is untenable; that, as the 1st respondent did not intentionally and voluntarily surrender or relinquish the right provided by clause 25 of the Shareholders Agreement to invoke section 7(3)© of the ACA, the doctrine of waiver could not have caught up with it vide Fasade and Ors V. Babalola and Anor. (2003) 11 NWLR (pt. 830) 26 at 47, on the meaning of waiver. The 21st respondent’s brief cautioned that the lower court and indeed the court does not sit on appeal over an award made by arbitrators to ascertain whether the findings and conclusions of the arbitrators were wrong in law, but that the court places itself in the position of the arbitrator(s) to determine whether the arbitrator(s) followed the law as they understood and expressed it; and that, the award did not create substantial miscarriage of justice vide Baker Marine V. Chevron (2000) 12 NWLR (pt. 681) 393 at 40. Consequently, it was urged that none of the instances of misconduct as stated in Arbico (supra) is present in the appeal, nor was any substantial miscarriage of justice asserted and established against the arbitrators, therefore the appeal should be dismissed; all the more so the court below had exercised its discretion judicially and judiciously in refusing to set aside the award.

LAW Tuesday, May 13, 2014

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FamilyLaw

“Men marry because they are tired; women, because they are curious: both are disappointed.” Oscar Wilde, The Picture of Dorian Gray

Marriage counselling law & legal definition (2) By Paul Benedetti and USLegal EMEMBER, relationships are by their nature emotional, not rational, so don’t build a business case with facts and figures — focus on your feelings and the rest will follow. • No one “wins” unless you both do. If it’s about feelings, then nobody’s right — or wrong. It’s a conversation, not a fight, so stop trying to win. Beckow learned this in his own life when he realized that he was very good at making arguments that negated his wife’s points. “But I had an awareness that every time I proved her ‘wrong,’ I didn’t win anything.” A great example of this is fighting over division of labour in the home and how tidy a house needs to be. Dr. Grenier notes that some people like organization, while others don’t mind a bit of clutter. It doesn’t mean some are right while others are wrong, or that someone has to “win” — just that they have different preferences, he explains. Evans gives his couples a simple maxim: “When you are into a win-lose pattern, you are both going to lose.” • How you feel is up to you. “There is probably nothing more important in a relationship than the art of making yourself happy,” says Beckow. Some people expect their spouse to fill in their shortcomings, to meet all their needs or heal their wounds. But when that does not happen, they feel disappointed and angry. Instead, it’s healthier — for both partners — to recognize that they must learn the art of taking care of themselves. How? Take responsibility for your own thoughts and feelings. In some ways this has little to do with your partner, says Beckow. Instead of blaming others for how you feel (“You make me so mad” or “Your lateness upsets me”), realize that how you feel is up to you. You can choose to be angry or annoyed, or you can choose not to be. It’s not what happens, it’s what you make it mean. Reva Seth, author of First Comes Marriage (Fireside, 2008), a book about lessons anyone can

learn from arranged marriages, agrees. “Women in arranged marriages have a much better sense of owning their own happiness...and assuming responsibility for meeting their own needs,” she says. She recommends developing a life beyond your partner: play bridge, go hiking, join a book club, cultivate friendships. “Why should your husband be your best friend?” asks Seth. “Why can’t you have a best friend and a husband?” That’s good advice for all couples. • Women aren’t from Venus and men aren’t from Mars. And most of the gender stereotypes we have are wrong, too. Who talks more? Women? No. Studies show men talk more and interrupt more. Who lies more on a first date? No difference. Except each person lies about different things. (Men lie about themselves and women lie about the men!) “The vast majority of investigations that we do looking at male and female differences find that we are far more similar than different,” says Dr. Grenier. Knowing whether someone is a man or a woman does not tell us anything important about their communication style, emotional needs, financial style or anything else. “Thinking about and worrying about gender differences is almost a complete waste of time,” he says. So, forget gender and park your assumptions. May be your husband wants to be held more, maybe he needs to talk about his worries at work or his concerns about aging. You’re more alike than you think! • When you argue, it should be all about you. This powerful communication tool is simple: You know your own thoughts and feelings best, so stick to that. Don’t tell your partner “how they think, or what they should or shouldn’t be,” says Beckow. He calls this being in the “other person’s business.” Dr. Grenier agrees. “As soon as you start using the word you, you immediately just piss the other person off,” he says. “There’s no faster way to make another adult angry than to tell them what they think or feel... that you are more of an expert on their internal state than they are.”

So stick to I.O.U. (I Over You) language — say I think, I feel and I need. (The only exception is when you use you in a question: What do you want? What do you think?) • It’s not about money. It’s about what you think about money. Money is one of the three things couples fight about most, say therapists. (No surprise — sex and the division of labour are the other two.) Every person has a financial style — some people live for today, others want to save for tomorrow. “Neither is right or wrong,” says Dr. Grenier. “If there was an overall, indisputably correct thing to do with money, we would have figured it out and we’d all be doing that. The problem is, there isn’t.” So, the key is to stop trying to win and figure out what makes each person comfortable when it comes to money. One solution is to have three bank accounts, counsels Dr. Grenier — his, hers and ours. Also, major decisions have to be made together. “As soon as somebody makes an important financial decision without consulting the other person,” says Dr. Grenier, “the chances of that being a source, and potentially a permanent source, of conflict is huge.” Money, like sex, is about trust. Erode that trust and the consequences to a marriage can be fatal. • Sex. It’s mostly about talking... and fun.

Forget erectile dysfunction or lack of orgasms. In fact, what most couples struggle with is low sexual desire or mismatched levels of desire. Low libido is especially common today in dualcareer couples. At the end of a long, stressful day at work, after the homework, the lessons and the lunches, who has the time or the energy for sex? Assuming both people want more sex, the solution is to think more openly about sex and to talk about it. Sexual problems usually get solved not in the bedroom, say therapists, but in the kitchen, with people talking. When one person wants sex more often than the other, the main advice is still to talk about it. The couple may have misunderstandings about what they are doing, what they want to do and what they could do. Talking openly, honestly and without fear is a start. “We need to give people permission to think about other ways of having sex rather than the scripted, boring efficiency-driven versions of sex,” says Dr. Grenier, who did sex research for his PhD and taught human sexuality at The University of Western Ontario. That means talking about masturbation (yes, pretty much everybody does it), about quickies, about sex in the afternoon, about assumptions and perceptions. “We need to open up the opportunities for sex,” he says. “Sex is good. Sex is healthy. Sex is a great coping mechanism. Sex is a great stress management tool. Sex is a great form of relationship glue.” Marriage therapists emphasize that couples are on a long journey together. “The opportunity to learn to love is immense,” says Beckow. Marriage is a dynamic experience. “You have to keep having these conversations for the rest of your life,” says Dr. Grenier. “You don’t wish a house, you build a house.” Finally, therapists like to remind couples that being together should be fun. “So many people work their partners to death, work their problems to death,” Beckow says, adding that play, intimacy and ease are important. Evans puts it simply. “You have to remember to have fun!”

NJC, judicial consultants and trajectory of justice CONTINUED FROM PAGE 79 pronounced the debt owing. Another decided case had it that garnishee proceedings are legitimate exercises of the right of a party to employ auxiliary methods to enforce the judgment obtained in his favour, and they are competent not-withstanding the pendency of a motion for stay of execution. It has also been decided in the past that the existence of an application, seeking an order of stay of execution of a judgment does not preclude a judgment creditor from seeking to use Garnishee Proceedings to enforce the judgment. Therefore, the contention of a respondent that an appellant is un-entitled to enforce a judgment in its favour to Garnishee Proceedings because the respondent filed an application for stay of execution is unsustainable. But Justice Olotu has stated that the sanction imposed on her by the NJC was very severe and harsh considering her entire conduct of the case and that the reasons she gave for the delay, which include the volume of cases pending before her in Port Harcourt and the cases disposed of during quarters 2,3 and 4, in 2009 and Quarters 1, 2, 3, and 4 in 2010, as annexed to her response of April 4, 2011. From the foregoing, the judge insists that she did not err in taking the garnishee proceedings as a fresh suit filed in Port

Harcourt division and therefore could not have been Functus Officio with regard to the garnishee proceedings, which was filed as a fresh suit in Port Harcourt Judicial division. She argued that the Garnishee Proceedings were not filed as an application in Suit FHC/UY/CS/250/20003, if it has been so, maybe, it could have been said that she was Functus Officio but the suit has different number and was filed in Port Harcourt Judicial Division, where she was sitting and so she was right to have assumed jurisdiction and therefore did not act irregularly to assume jurisdiction to hear suit N0: FHC/PH/CS/450/2010 It is noteworthy that the law regarding Garnishing Proceedings is that it should be filed in the state where the funds of the judgment debtor are domiciled. Alleging corruption in the high places involving many highly-placed Nigerians, Nigerian and international companies, the judge felt that there was not only local conspiracy against her but also one with international dimensions. Justice Olotu has also filed a fundamental human rights suit marked FHC/ABJ/CS/221/2014 against the Economic & Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), Director, State Security Service (DSS), Inspector General of Police,

AGF, Adoke Code of Conduct Bureau, Centre for Network against Corruption, the Attorney General of the Federation and the NJC. Others listed in the suit, as defendants, are retired Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Alfa Belgore, Chief Gabriel Igbinedion, Ponticelli Nig, Ltd, Stolt Offshore Services S.A, the Vessel M.V Theo, and The Owners of the Vessel M.V. Theo. Elf. Nig Petroleum Nig. Ltd, A.B.C. Maritime AG, The Vessel M.V. Lara and The Vessel M.V. Krysia. The listing of a former Chief Justice of Nigeria along with other parties in the matter she handled in Suit

Justice Olotu FHC/UY/CS/250/20003, as defendants in the fundamental human rights suit had left many confused. But Justice Olotu, in an appeal letter to President Goodluck Jonathan dated February 28, 2014 in respect of the NJC’s statement of February 27, 2014, alleged that she was being hunted by a giant and Goliath in the judicial system, who asked her to take a decision in Suit N0: FHC/PH/CS/450/2010 in a particular way contrary to her judicial Oath and conscience. “ Since January, 2011, I have been hounded and harassed by this Goliath who cause my transfer from Port Harcourt to

Abuja. He has persisted unashamedly until in connivance with the present Chief Justice of Nigeria, he achieved his malicious intent”, she had written in the letter. In that letter, Justice Olotu had appealed to the President not to approve or assent to the NJC’s recommendation for her compulsory retirement but to question the severity and injustice vis-à-vis the offence. However after the recommendation was assented by the President, she went to court to seek for review of the decision. The judge has also through her family filed a N2 billion libel suit at the High Court of Benin, Edo State against a

national newspaper; the matter has been adjourned till June 20, 2014 for judgement. Much more than the reputation of the NJC is at stake here. If a motion for stay of execution cannot stop the application of Garnishee Proceedings, then her argument based on such decided cases, can hardly be a basis for the allegation of gross misconduct levelled against her unless the NJC has more facts yet undisclosed on the matter. The initial appeal by Justice Olotu that the NJC should seek interpretation of Garnishee Proceedings and its applications, since it solely based its ruling of misconduct against her on it, is a challenge the body could have taken up in the interest of the Law, justice and its public image. This would have also prevented another Salami-like controversy, by making her appear to be pitting her interest against that of the Olympian Judicial body. But Justice Olotu has a name to protect as well as a career that is being threatened and wants to see to the bitter end. Yet, while the matter rages, it is the Judiciary that is on trial. As the last hope of the common man, the judiciary needs to be shielded from such avoidable murky acrimony, which belittles it in public eye. President Jonathan can, however, intervene by revisiting the decision and that way, save the judiciary from itself and by so doing, shore up its battered credibility.

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Oputa: Exit of an iconic jurist TRIBUTE By Bertram Nwannekanma HE late Justice Chukwudifu T Akunne Oputa, an intellectual colossus par excellence, was renowned for his great knowledge base, which was not unconnected with his academic exposure. With a first degree in Economics, second in History before delving into Law, coupled with a thorough grounding in Literature and traditional lore, Oputa, unarguably, was a rare repository of sort and indeed, a human heritage. An iconic jurist, Justice Oputa was known for his intellectual robustness and unusual display of knowledge of the law. No wonder, he was regarded and addressed as the Socrates and Lord Denning of Nigeria by his colleagues, as well as those who admired him and his judgments, whether lead, concurring or dissenting, while he was on the Bench. Justice Oputa’s passion for law, the rule of law and constitutionality, was exemplary and worthy of emulation as most of his pronouncements were branded as legal and judicial activism. It was the late legal icon’s belief that justice should be made functional and relevant to the ordinary man, an advocacy he repeatedly admonished his colleagues on the Bench to continue to interpret the constitution and other relevant laws liberally for the benefit of all. Justice Oputa’s courage and conviction; listening; analysis and synthesis; instinct for the right call; and communication in accessible reasoning and language made him one of the most distinguished figures in Nigeria’s judicial circle. He also made an array of notable judicial pronouncements, delivering several incisive judgements replete with legal reasoning and authorities, which have become reference points and guides to all in the legal profession. The eminent jurist, besides his grand legal qualifications, possessed a mind that was peculiarly penetrating and fearless; which impelled him to speak straightforwardly and even caustically, when he met circumstances, which warranted such action. A great philosopher, Oputa had in many of his seminar articles and

books, preached that the country should sustain the democracy it has earned, adding that democracy, which is anchored on peace and peace in turn, is the by-product of justice and fair-play. Some of his works include: “Towards Justifiability of the Fundamental Objectives and Directive Principles of State Policy in Nigeria”, Legal and Judicial Activism in an Emergent Democracy: The last hope for the common man”, and Democracy: The Judiciary and the New Challenges”; Modern Bar Advocacy (1973); The Law and the Twin Pillars of Justice (1981); and Human Rights in the political and legal culture of Nigeria (1988); just to mention but a few. Incidentally, the story of the life and times of Justice Oputa could be described as the reward of determination, perseverance and focus. His story was an elixir for those who came into this world to discover that they were born orphans. Born on September 22, 1924, to the family of Chief Uzukwu Oputa and Mrs. Nwametu Oputa. Chukwudifu was only three months old, when Pa Uzukwu passed on and his mother followed suit when he was barely six months old. However, his grandmother, Madam Ogonim Enesha, a prominent merchant between 1890 and 1900, took over the responsibility of raising the young Oputa. The late jurist started his early education at Sacred Heart School, Oguta, from 1930-1936 and Christ the King College (CKC), Onitsha between 1937 and 1940. After his secondary school, he got admission to study at the then Higher College, Yaba, Lagos. However, as a result of the World War 11, he was moved to the famous Achimota College in the then Gold Coast (now Ghana) where he obtained a Bachelor of Science Degree in Economics in 1945. It was also at this same period through hardwork that he did home studies to obtain the Bachelor of Arts degree in History from the University of London. On his return to Nigeria from the Gold Coast, he took up a post as a teacher at the African College, which also had on its staff prominent Nigerians such as Chike Obi, the famous mathematician, and the late Dr. Pius Okigbo. Later on, he transferred to the Kalabari National College (KNC), Buguma, where he was made the Principal. Some of his

Oputa pupils then included Professor Tam David-West, a former Petroleum Minister. Spurred by his burning desire for more knowledge, Oputa abandoned his lucrative job in Nigeria and went to England to study Law. In June 1953, his ambition of becoming a gentleman of the Bar paid off. He received his LL.B (Hons.) degree and was called to the English Bar-Grays Inn. His background in the humanities set the stage for a successful and outstanding legal practice. He returned to Nigeria in 1954 and enjoyed a highly successful private practice for 12 years. He was the leading counsel in so many matters then such as the Harding Commission of Inquiry into the Onitsha Obi-ship dispute of 1960/61. In 1966, he began his career on the Bench with his appointment as a judge of the High Court of Eastern Nigeria. During the next 10 years, he discharged his duties honourably and creditably, serving on several divisions of the High Court of the region, which later became EastCentral States. As a result of his outstanding performance, he was appointed the first Chief Judge of old Imo State in 1976 He held this position for about eight years, during which he helped to set up a solid judicial structure for the fledging state. His career as a jurist soared when he had to exit the state judiciary as a result of his elevation to the Supreme Court in furtherance of his dedicated service to his fatherland. At the Supreme Court, Justice

Oputa continued to manifest his profound intellectual sagacity for equity and justice in his balanced judgments. He was, indeed, a principal participant during the golden years of the court, when the highest court in the land established a reputation as a veritable citadel of adjudicatory excellence and integrity. While at the apex court, Justice Oputa delivered several renowned judgments that are still being celebrated in most law reports today. One of the judgments was a lead judgment in the case between the Attorney General of Lagos State (Appellant) and the Honourable Justice L. J. Dosumu (Respondent) over property ownership in suit No. SC/257/1988. Oputa’s judgments at the court were, indeed, a compendium of wellresearched and deep philosophical thinking. He is a judge who is not at ease with legal technicality and very much on guard against lawyers whose only reason for going to court is to induce litigation fatigue on the other side, instead of seeking remedies. Like Lord Denning in England, he used his judgments to make a case for judicial activism in the interpretation of the Constitution and to act as a compass for legislative action and judicial reform. His locus classicus is in Ojukwu vs. the Military Government of Lagos State SC/241/1985 Citation: (1986) ANLR 233, (1986) 3 N.W.L.R. (Pt.26) 39. Since he stepped down from the Bench in 1989, he has been found worthy to serve the nation in various capacities because of his wealth of experience, evergreen knowledge of the law and his impeccable character and ingenuity. In pursuance of this track record, President Olusegun Obasanjo on June 4, 1999, appointed him to chair the Human Rights Violation Investigation Commission (HRVIC) known as the Oputa Panel, to ascertain the causes of gross abuses of human rights from 1960 to 1999. This was one last national assignment Oputa delivered good dividend for national reconciliation but his report was badly managed by the government at that time. Justice Oputa was a recipient of several awards including the third highest national honour, Commander of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (CFR), Doctor of Letters of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, (D.

Litt.), as well as the revered Knight Commander of St. Gregory, the Great (KCGG) and Knight of St. Molumba (KSM), among others. This great man of the moment was a good family man. He was married to Ntianu Oputa and they both have four children including the famous Charles Oputa (Charly Boy) and George Oputa, a lawyer. Justice Oputa also worked as an Assistant District Officer. It was there that he achieved a remarkable feat; when he studied and obtained his BA (Hon) History at home. Afterwards, he proceeded to London where he got his LLB (HON) and was called to Bar in Gray’s Inn, London. Upon his return to Nigeria, Oputa went into brilliant and successful private practice, handling such celebrated cases and special inquires as the Oguta Chieftaincy dispute 1958/ 59, the Amanyanabo Dispute 1956/ 60 and many more. In 1966, Justice Oputa was appointed Judge of the High Court of the then Eastern Nigeria and moved on to become the first Chief Judge of Imo State 10 years later. In 1984, the great elevation came, the exalted position of Honorable Justice of the Supreme Court of Nigeria. It did not take long before Justice Oputa put his stamp on the Supreme Court as a man profoundly moved by classical literature, history, divinity and philosophy and whose judgments possessed the temerity that is in the preserve of genius. No wonder that the then Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Mohammed Bello nicknamed him Cicero. Even as he was proceeding on retirement in 1989, it was quite clear that Justice Oputa still had much more to offer. A devoted Christian, who played active role in the church, Justice Oputa was honored in the Catholic Church with Knight Commander of St. Gregory the great. He was also Knight Commander of St. Sylvester pope, Knight of St. Mulumba. Justice Oputa, who published over 40 papers in lectures, conferences and seminars held several Federal Assignments even after retirement. Until his death on Sunday, May 4, 2014, he was a dedicated family man exemplarily devoted to his beautiful wife, Margaret and his lovely children. All lovers of justice, rule of law and democracy will surely miss Justice Oputa.

All mourn Oputa, Lord Denning of Nigerian judiciary By Bertram Nwannekanma (Lagos), Mohammed Abubakar, Adamu Abuh and Lemmy Ughegbe (Abuja) ORRENTS of tributes have continued to trail T the demise of the former Supreme Court Justice, Justice Chukwudifu Akunne Oputa, who died last Sunday, May 4, 2014 in Abuja. In his tribute to the late legal icon, President Goodluck Jonathan described Justice Oputa’s demise as “immense national loss,” saying his contributions to the national development would be greatly missed. Jonathan, in a statement by his Media aide, Reuben Abati, on behalf of himself, the Federal Government and people of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, he extended his sincere condolences to the eminent jurist’s family, relatives, associates and friends. According to him, “As they mourn the passage of the retired Justice of the Supreme Court, who will always be remembered, among other career highlights, for his celebrated chairmanship of Nigeria’s Human Rights Violations Investigation Commission 14 years ago, President Jonathan urges them to be comforted by the knowledge that Justice Oputa lived a long, very fulfilled and achievement-laden life.” “The President believes that Justice Oputa will always be honoured now and in posterity for having served the nation as a most distinguished and courageous jurist who made very significant and indelible contributions to the advancement of Nigerian jurisprudence. “President Jonathan is confident that although Justice Oputa has now left the world of the living, the late jurist will be long remembered for his spirited legal activism and will continue to serve as a splendid role model for present and

future generations of Nigerian judges. “He prays that God Almighty will receive Justice Oputa’s soul and grant him a welldeserved rest from his diligent and exemplary labours on earth.” Also, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Alhaji Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, described the deceased as a distinguished person who devoted his time in both his public and private lives to advance the cause of mankind. Speaker of House of Representatives, Aminu Tambuwal in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Public Affairs, Malam Imam Imam, described the jurist’s death as a great loss to the Nigerian federation. Describing Oputa as the Lord Denning of Nigerian judiciary. He noted: “He was an articulate jurist and the master of the rules. If you call him the father of criminal justice law in Nigeria you won’t be wrong. “For me, whenever matters of procedural and substantive law are mentioned, his name will come tops. He was never a concurist but a resolute and independent-minded justice who elevated the defence of democracy, human rights and rule of law to an art. We will all miss him,” the Speaker added. On his own part, former Vice President and chieftain of All Progressives Congress (APC), Abubakar Atiku described Justice Chukwudifu Oputa as an extraordinary jurist with extraordinary pedigree. In a tribute to the late jurist issued by his media office in Abuja, Atiku said the death of the retired Supreme Court Justice was like a huge branch being cut off from the nation’s judicial iroko tree. According to him, apart from his extraordi-

nary courage, the late Oputa was also a man of profound knowledge on account of which he was famously branded the “Socrates of the Supreme Court.” He explained that for Oputa to earn this appellation from colleagues was a demonstration of his erudition and colossal stature. Atiku recalled that with no less than 358 judgements and rulings under his belt, the late Oputa was a giant of law not only in Nigeria, but also the rest of Africa. The former Vice President prayed for the repose of his soul and condoled with his family on this irreparable loss. Also, the Nigerian Bar Association, (NBA), Attorney General of the Federation and Minister for Justice, Mr. Mohammed Adoke (SAN), Abia State Attorney –General and Commissioner for Justice, Kalu Umeh, renowned lawyers such as Chief Joe Kyari Gadzama (SAN), Funke Adekoya (SAN), Bamidele Aturu and Mark Ibekwe had paid glowing tributes to Justice Chukwudifu Oputa, whom they described as one of best legal minds. The NBA in a statement signed by its President, Okey Wali (SAN) stated that the late Hon. Justice Chukwudifu Akunne Oputa, JSC, was famously described by the Bar and the Bench as the Socrates of the Nigerian legal profession. According to the NBA, Justice Oputa did not only bestride the legal firmament of Nigeria like a colossus, but he also exhibited impeccable character, integrity, learning and professionalism. “He was, indeed, one of the best legal minds the Nigerian legal profession has ever produced. “ The legal profession and the nation have lost a rare gem.

“On behalf of the Nigerian Bar Association, I hereby, give our condolences to the Judiciary and his family, while praying for the repose of his soul, and also pray that God will give the family, the Bench and the Bar, the fortitude to bear the loss,” he added. In separate statements taken out by Adoke, Gadzama, Umeh and Aturu, they expressed shock at news of Oputa’s death, stating that he would be sorely missed by all. Adoke said Justice Oputa was, until his death, one of Nigeria’s foremost legal icons who served the legal profession, the country and humanity with characteristic candour, courage and dedication. For Chief Kyari - Gadzama , Oputa should be extolled for his selfless service to the nation and his contributions to the legal profession, noting that he carried unconditional love for all Nigerians in his bossom unto death. In a statement issued on behalf of the Abia State Ministry of Justice, Umeh said the demise of Justice Oputa has created a vacuum in the temple of the Nigerian legal system, as one of the soundest minds that ever graced the Bench of the Supreme Court has gone. While condoling with the Oputa family, the Abia State Attorney- General said the late Justice Oputa was held in very regard by the Bar, the Bench and indeed, the public in Nigeria, having made an array of notable judicial pronouncements and delivering several incisive judgements replete with legal reasoning and authorities, which have become reference points and guides to all in the legal profession. “ He was the Socrates of Nigerian Law and equally was often measured in the mould of the legendary English Master of the Rolls, Lord Denning.

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Tuesday, May 13, 2014 | 85

PHOTONEWS EXTRA

President, Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote; consoling the widow, Lady Doja Otedola, during a condolence visit to the family over the passing on of her husband, the former Governor of Lagos State, Sir Micheal Otedola.

Grand Administrator and Director, Supreme Board of the Rosicrucian Order, AMORC, Dr, Kenneth Idiodi (right); Mrs, Pauline Ikube, Managing Director, Future Solution Ltd., Johnson Ikube and Grand Councillor, Emeritus Amorc Oguama Okorie, at the public symposium, “One Word Religion, is it Attainable? in Lagos PHOTO: FEMI ADEBESIN-KUTI

Former Military Head of State, Major General Yakubu Gowon (rtd), Olori Ladun Sijuade and, Ooni of ife, Oba Okunade Sijuade the 2nd, the (bride), Oluwemimo Ayotokunbo Dosumu (grand daughter of late Chief Obafemi Awolowo) and (groom), Ayodeji Anifowose during their holy matrimony at Archbishop Vinig Memorial Church Cathedral at Oba Akinjobi Road GRA, Ikeja, Lagos. PHOTO:

Public Relations Manager, Startimes, Anetor Irete (right); Accounts Manager, Cutler Communication, Ihuoma Godspower-Omenazu; and Senior Public Relation Officer, Consumer Protection Council, Lagos Office, Nicholas Utsalo, during the launch of StarTimes ‘ExtraTime’ promo in Lagos. PHOTO: SUNDAY AKINLOLU

Access road being constructed by Federal Ministry of Works at Amakon Village, in Asaba axis, Delta State for the Second Niger Bridge.

Former Minister for Finance, Dr. Kalu Idika Kalu (left); Chairman, Amuwo Odofin Local Council, Ayodele Adewale, Director-General, Centre for Democratic Governance in Africa, Dr. Dafe Akpocha and guest speaker, Victor Ukutt, at the second yearly lecture and Global Award 2014 Theme: ‘Sustaining Momentum For Social Service Delivery in Good Governance.’ PHOTO: AYODELE

Area Sales Supervisor, West, Nutricima Ltd, J.K Samuel (left); Babaloja of Oyo State, Chief D.A Ladapo; N500, 000 winner in the on-going Nutricima Mega Cash Promo, Osshai Winnies, Regional Sales Manager, West, Nutricima Ltd, Adeshina Adeeko, and a major trade partner, Macaulay Ohikhuare, during the second prize presentation to winners at HPZ Depot, Dugbe, Ibadan. PHOTO: NAJEEM RAHEEM

Principal, Pacelli School for the Blind, Surulere, Sr. Jane Onyeneri; Matron, Sr. Anastacia Okolo; Corporate Relations Manager, Unilever Nigeria Plc, Mr. Yemi Adeboye; and Brand Building Director, Foods, Mrs. Nsima Ogedi-Alakwe, during the inauguration of a renovated Home Economics Laboratory sponsored by Unilever Nigeria Plc in Lagos at the weekend

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86 | Tuesday, May 13, 2014

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‘Plans to rig Ekiti poll will fail’ Barely a month and half hence, precisely on June 21, the people of ekiti will vote in a new governor. the incumbent, dr. Kayode Fayemi of the all progressives Congress (apC) is standing for a second term in office against a field of his friends and former political associates who are bent on “capturing” the state for their respective platforms. However, Fayemi told newsmen in ado-ekiti that he’s sure of victory, as the poll would be a referendum on his performance, and advised those who plans to rig the exercise to learn from history, as ekiti is not a good place for electoral manipulation, reports group political editor, ehichioya ezomon. OU are wont to label the June 21 Y election as a referendum on your performance; have you done enough to guarantee yourself a second term? First, what do I mean by that statement? An election is necessarily a referendum of what an incumbent has done or failed to do in the judgment of the electorate. Somebody running for the first time can only make promises and hope that the people will believe his promises. As an incumbent, I am running on the record of the public goods that I’ve delivered in every community and constituency. I have been on the campaign trail for over three weeks now and in every place I get to, the people are the ones who reel out what we have done in their communities. It is a much taller order for me in the sense that I must present tangible, palpable, verifiable evidence of what I have done. That is what I have to sell. In addition to that, with the record that you know that I have, I now want to do one, two, three and four (things) when I come back. So, it is a referendum on my performance. It may not be a referendum of the performance of my competitors. But even in the case of one of my competitors (Ayo Fayose), the election is a referendum on who he was when he was in office in the state and what he did. Even if he chooses not to talk about that, others would talk about his record in office. The record will be set straight. To your second question: have I done enough to earn a second term? I ran in 2007 on a platform popularly known as the Roadmap to Ekiti Recovery — My 8-Point Agenda. At the time, I was very specific about what I was going to do in office — as far back as 2006. When you talk about Social Security — if you read my inaugural speech, you will find Social Security Benefit to the Elderly there. If you read my inaugural speech, you will see Laptop Per Child there. There is nothing that we have done in this state that we have not picked up from the 8-point agenda. And everyone who is objective can attest to the fulfillment of what we promised Ekiti State people. And in the various communities that we are going to meet people, they speak to that. So, I think the answer to your question is, yes. My performance has earned me a reason to believe that I would be re-elected. A dimension to this: today (Friday, April 18), the result of one of the polls that we conducted at the various communities came to me. One woman they spoke to basically just said: “We like Fayemi. He has done very well. He has fulfilled all his promises. He has not done anything that we don’t like but the issue is that since he has already done everything he promised, he should allow another person come in.” I found that very interesting. But the thing is that we have not actually done everything. There are areas where I would score myself 70 per cent or even 60 per cent. There are still some things to be done. Seriously speaking, I think we have done reasonably well. Don’t forget that this state is No. 35 on the rev-

Fayemi enue ladder of the country. People often forget that. And this is a state that gets N3 billion a month against N23 billion Bayelsa with a smaller population. I think it is important to put this in proper perspective. We run a social democratic agenda and it is a progressive government. You will see that in many of the policies that we put in place, we concentrate on how to pull up the weak and the vulnerable in our state. Additionally, we have run a reasonably clean government. So, I think we have done enough to earn a second term. But we are also not unaware that performance itself is not the only factor in an election but it is the most critical success factor for an incumbent. If the election were a referendum on your performance, why would Vice President Namadi Sambo declare the exercise as a war front? Are you not worried by that pronouncement? Quite frankly, my immediate reaction when I saw the statement from the Vice President was disbelief until I eventually read it in about five newspapers and saw that the language was consistent and that the reports were similar in all the pa-

pers. The Vice President is someone I relate with very well. He and I are on the board of the NDPHC (Niger Delta Power Holding Company), the Nigeria Integrated Power Project (NIPP). He chairs the company and I represent the Southwest in the company. And through that, we meet fairly regularly. The Vice President has every right to push for his party in any election. That is his legitimate right but to have said what the media reported was quite unfortunate because we are not at war in Ekiti. We have enjoyed three and a half years of peace — and we are one of the most peaceful states in this country today. So, for someone who occupies one of the highest offices in the land as our Vice President to reduce the importance of his office and promote insecurity — either directly or by subterfuge, is quite unbecoming of the person who occupies the Number 2 position in our country. There is a part of me that still wants to treat it with scepticism and I still would like to take it up with the Vice President whenever I get the opportunity. I hope he would deny the report.

But I do think the underlying implication of the purported statement should worry any decent Nigerian who is interested in credible elections, especially in the light of what recently happened at IlajeEse Odo (Ondo State) and the role played by a minister of government, which has now been confirmed by the Resident Electoral Commissioner in Ondo State. In any decent polity, the minister would have been asked to leave by now. If you do anything that flies flagrantly in the face of the law — then the maximum weight of the law ought to be applied by INEC. The law is very clear on these matters and even the military is empowered to disobey manifestly unlawful orders. What happened in Ilaje-Ese Odo appears to many people as a precursor of the grand plan to steal elections in Ekiti and Osun States. And INEC ought to be sending a very strong signal that the institution would not take kindly to unlawful interference in the electoral process. I can tell you that there is a lot of intelligence available to me about people sewing fake soldiers and policemen’s uniforms in preparation for Ekiti election and I hope INEC

people who are familiar with the history here (ekiti) would know that this is not a very good place to rig election. You can afford to manipulate elections in anambra because anambra has a lot of rich people who are even richer than the governor and do not care too much about who governs the state. in ekiti, you will discover that everybody is interested in what happens here because we have 2.5 million potential governors in this state. every single indigene believes he has what it takes — that he understands government and that he knows how to govern. So, you can’t say such a person should not have an opinion on who governs. and every time election was manipulated in ekiti, the result had not been palatable. Whether you refer to 1964-65 — the wetie crisis, which eventually culminated in the 1966 coup d’état, or when you talk of the 1983 election rigging in ondo State, we all can remember what happened here.

would be reassuring not just Ekiti people, but also Nigerians because the Ekiti election is even far more important than the 2015 elections because if confidence is lost in INEC’s preparation and eventual implementation of the Ekiti election, that will rub-off terribly on the 2015 elections. I mean INEC is already on the tenterhooks given what happened in Anambra. To then see Ekiti election going in the wrong direction would totally put paid to any hope on the part of Nigerians that anything good can come out of the 2015 elections. And I don’t think President Jonathan needs that. I think he has conveyed an image of himself as a decent politician who is not going to manipulate or resort to extra-legal or illegal ways in election management in Nigeria. So, I think INEC, together with Inter Agency Committee on Election Security, would need to give Nigerians a lot of reassurance following the Vice President’s careless statement. But perhaps, out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaketh. I think it is very unfortunate. I think it is unbecoming of his office, and I think the Vice President really ought to withdraw the statement and reassure Nigerians that the agenda for Ekiti election is not going to be determined in Aso Rock but by Ekiti people because it is a referendum on the performance of the government in Ekiti; it is not a national election. It should not be expanded to a national election. But let me also say that whatever evil machinations are in place from Abuja, Ekiti people are fully ready. Doesn’t Sambo’s statement align with the determination of the PDP in the Southwest to recapture Ekiti? Are you not nursing any fears for the election? This is Ekiti and people who are familiar with the history here would know that this is not a very good place to rig election. You can afford to manipulate elections in Anambra because Anambra has a lot of rich people who are even richer than the governor and do not care too much about who governs the state. In Ekiti, you will discover that everybody is interested in what happens here because we have 2.5 million potential governors in this state. Every single indigene believes he has what it takes — that he understands government and that he knows how to govern. So, you can’t say such a person should not have an opinion on who governs. And every time election was manipulated in Ekiti, the result had not been palatable. Whether you refer to 1964-65 — the wetie crisis, which eventually culminated in the 1966 coup d’état — Ekiti was even a stronger zone of resistance than Ijebu where Chief Awolowo hailed from; or when you talk of the 1983 election rigging in Ondo State, we all can remember what happened here. And, of course, my own recent experience has also demonstrated that our people are far too sensitive to allow external interference in their affairs. People will make all sorts of claims — they would do this, they would do that — but the truth of the matter is even the PDP admits that this governor has done well but it is about

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INTERVIEW

‘Why Ekiti poll mustn’t be rigged’ CONTINUED FROM PAGE 86

I’m sure the President would adhere strictly to the provisions of the law, as far as this matter is concerned. . There were reports that the APC governors shunned a (previous) security meeting called by the President on the ground that they were not properly invited... (Cuts in) We didn’t say we were not properly invited. My brother, Governor Akpabio was the one who said we were not invited. I don’t know what he was talking about. The President invited us. The usual text message was sent and signals also came as they normally do for such meetings. APC Governors were in Abuja; actually, 14 of us were in Abuja on Tuesday night for our meeting and once we were in the Imo State Lodge for the meeting at about 10pm, we got information that the Security Council meeting had been stepped down. . So, it wasn’t that we were not invited; we were invited and then notified of a postponement. It was a surprise to us that the meeting later held. . Indeed, the following morning, we were in the hospitals to see victims of the Nyanya bombings; we were in Asokoro; we were also at the National Hospital before we all departed from Abuja since the meeting had been called off. . I don’t know what Governor Akpabio meant by his statement that we were not invited. In any case, if this was a meeting about security, APC states have been the most affected in the Northeast and our interest should necessarily be keener than those by non-APC states.

der, mayhem and crises for the bulk of the period. And don’t forget that for those seven and a half years, there were six governors. So, it was instability galore. That is what would have to be placed side-by-side what happened in our time in office. Federal might is always going to be a factor in any election, but I can assure you that the ‘peoples’ might’ is bigger than federal might. Thus, we have nothing to fear. We are ready for the worst but light will overcome darkness. HAT will really be the focus of your secW ond term in office? . Three things: agriculture, tourism and the

HERE are some things you said about the T disparity in the allocation the state gets from the Federation Account. That being the case, are you comfortable with the federal

OU were the only APC governor that atY tended Ondo State, Dr. Olusegun Mimiko’s inauguration for a second term; what does

Fayemi system being practised in the country? We don’t operate a federal system in Nigeria, or at best we operate a distorted pseudo-federal system, which does not operate coordinate powers among the federating units but a hierarchical, subordinate powers inherited from our military past. If we operate a federal system, then you will not have things like UBEC and TETFUND, which give people the impression that states are beholden to the federal government, whereas it is the funds jointly owned in the Federation Account that is being shared. If we run a proper federal structure, you will not have us here spending our meagre resources in sustaining the police whilst we have no authority over its activities in the state unless our views coincide with or reinforce the instructions from Abuja. It’s simply a distortion of federal system. As for the disparities in earnings between Bayelsa, or Rivers and Ekiti, I do not have any problem with it. I’m an advocate of fiscal federalism. So, I do not necessarily have a problem with Rivers State, for instance, earning what comes from its soil . However, in order for us not to undermine the nation, for any federal system to work well, we often need equilibrating mechanisms so that one side is not overwhelmingly rich and other side of the federation so despicably poor. We have to find a mechanism to balance this. . If you look at the

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Australian and the Canadian constitutions — even in the American constitution, you have these mechanisms there. We have them in ours as well but they are exercised in breach rather than in consistency with the law. . So, I hope those who are working on this in the national conference will be able to come up with a federalism that is more cooperative than combative because states are being forced into a combative mood. We once heard our President say, “if you are not for me, then you will be punished. Your purse would be depleted.” And that is what is happening. . You have states like Ekiti where we have done several federal roads but are being owed billions. You also have other states that are being owed and have collected all they are being owed. So, you would ask yourself, why that happens if there is justice, equity and fairness in our federal system? Are you bothered that the Federal Government may consider an extension of the emergency rule it declared in three APC states of the Northeast? . Well, the attitude of the APC to the current state of emergency is that it has not produced the result that we would have loved to see. I don’t want to pre-judge what might happen. In any case, there is a process for renewal of emergency rule in the Nigerian constitution.

My politics is not politics of bitterness. Opeyemi used to be a good friend; I’m sure you know. He chose to distance himself on account of his ambition and he has every right to be ambitious. Every human being should have ambition but that should not turn him into an enemy. He is, therefore, my opponent but not my enemy. Governor Fayose is my acquaintance and I’m sure if you asked him, he would probably tell you the same. I may have my own issues with him, he probably has his own issues with me but he is a former governor of this state and deserves to be respected. I do not think anyone who occupies this seat should do anything to denigrate the office because there is a mystique around the office that we must all protect. Whether you are a putative aspirant for the office or you are the occupant, you should not denigrate the position.

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knowledge economy. Let me explain what I mean by that. . Clearly, I’m not going to stop my focus on education but it is going to be narrowed into the creation of knowledge economy. We have a lot of focus on technological education, on vocational education, on ICT and the Knowledge Park that we are constructing. We have a 3,000-hectare Ekiti Knowledge Zone in the making. It is probably bigger than the Lekki Free Zone; it is going to be the base for education tourism, medical tourism and ICT outsourcing. We feel that is an area that can give us an edge. Agriculture, understandably because of our own ground but it is expanding and developing the food value chain. We would be focusing on cassava, the revival of our cocoa, rice and oil palm. Three, tourism; we feel that Ekiti can still be the best destination of choice. All of us talk about what has happened in Cross River but we still feel we are better placed than Cross River because Cross River is much more difficult to get to, particularly Obudu. It is much easier to get to Ikogosi than Obudu. And we are building Ikogosi into a tourism hub to serve our grand vision of making poverty history in our state. So, it is more of consolidation of what we have been doing, but it is going to be driven by how many jobs can be generated from these sectors. It is going to be largely job-focused. One of your programmes that the opposition has not criticised is the digitalisation of your income; would you throw more light on it? . You are talking about the Integrated Payroll Biometric System. I don’t know if the opposition has not criticised it. . When we started it, they called us all manners of names — that the agenda was to get rid of the civil servants but eventually, you are right, they couldn’t criticise it because the civil servants and the teachers became champions of the electronic payment system and it has saved us a lot of money spent on ghost workers. . We are now even trying to use the same system for our Citizen Identity Management System and our Social Security payment, which is still manual payment and there is still a level of inefficiency and waste that we have detected in the Social Security payment. But clearly, biometrics is the way to go. If you want to run an efficient government, technology has to play a major role. And that is how we have been able to reduce fraud in the system. We now save an average of N200 million (monthly). . Are you likely to pick another running mate? You know what they say — if it is not broken, why fix it? The deputy governor has done very well. She did exceedingly well managing the state’s Universal Basic Education Board. . My party has a position that the deputy must come from Ado-Ekiti and I cannot go against the position of the party on that. My late deputy was also from Ado-Ekiti, as you know. So, we just replaced her with another Ado-Ekiti person who happens to be a direct descendant of the monarch here. But that is not what qualifies her for the job. She is more importantly a professor and expert in education administration.

that imply? . If you know my politics, you will know that that is not really exceptional. I’m very friendly with Peter Obi, but I went to campaign for my party’s candidate, Chris Ngige, in Anambra State and I actually called Peter that I was in town to campaign for Chris Ngige. Governor Mimiko is my egbon in our local parlance here. I’d like to think he is still my friend. For me, there is a whole world of difference between ideological affinity and friendship. I have many friends in PDP – one of my closest friends was the PDP gubernatorial aspirant in Edo State (Prof. Julius Ihonvbere) before he eventually came back to us and became the Secretary to the State Government and even when he was in PDP and was working with President Obasanjo, he didn’t really affect our friendship. . In the same vein, are you likely to extend a hand of fellowship to both Opeyemi Bamidele and Ayo Fayose if you won the election? My politics is not politics of bitterness. Opeyemi used to be a good friend; I’m sure you know. He chose to distance himself on account of his ambition and he has every right to be ambitious. Every human being should have ambition but that should not turn him into an enemy. He is, therefore, my opponent but not my enemy. . Governor Fayose is my acquaintance and I’m sure if you asked him, he would probably tell you the same. I may have my own issues with him, he probably has his own issues with me but he is a former governor of this state and deserves to be respected. . I do not think anyone who occupies this seat should do anything to denigrate the office because there is a mystique around the office that we must all protect. Whether you are a putative aspirant for the office or you are the occupant, you should not denigrate the position. And you are right, after election is over, governance begins and don’t be surprised if there is any reason for us to come together in the ultimate best interest of Ekiti State and Ekiti people. I’m going to solicit for their assistance and their wise counsel. . And besides, Ekiti is unique; we are different from any other state. This is the only monoethnic place you can point to in Nigeria. Even Bayelsa still has strands but in Ekiti, we are one stock. We are the same people and we are probably all related in one form or the other in our various 132 communities. In politics, there are no permanent friends

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88 | Tuesday, May 13, 2014

INTERVIEW

Ekiti 2014: ‘There’s no LP, PDP alliance’ A chieftain of Labour Party (LP) in Ekiti State and the Director, Contact and Mobilisation Committee of the Michael Opeyemi Bamidele (MOB) Campaign, Prince Akin Olayisade, in this interview speaks on the chances of the party in the June 21 governorship election. He also denies there is an alliance between the LP and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). From Muyiwa Adeyemi (Head South West Bureau Ado Ekiti) HERE are opinions in the state that there is T no difference between LP and PDP. They are also suggesting that there seems to be a secret alliance between the two parties in the state. Are you aware of this? As I know, there is no alliance between PDP and LP. We have our own constitution, we have our manifesto and very soon, our candidate will launch our manifesto for people to see what he wants to do for Ekiti. Our constitution is quite different from that of the PDP and Ayo Fayose is not even a friend of our candidate. So, it is all propaganda. If we have alliance, how come we fielded different candidates? How do you marry that? Ayo Fayose will want to win the election more than anyone else and we all know his courage and belligerent attitude when it comes to elections. The way they sent him packing in Ekiti, he will want to come back by all means and at all cost. So, will you tell Fayose now that ‘oh, go and work for Labour’ or MOB, by his antecedents is it possible for PDP to tell him ‘work for us’. For what? Is it for money? Is it for pride? Is it for position? I see that as pranks people are playing. While I might not know all, if any of such thing happens in the party, there is no way that I will not know. We are not in any alliance with PDP. The only reason they can adduce is that we are not fighting ourselves because the incumbent is the person we want to remove from power. Fayose had been there, the people know his record that we can work against. Fayemi is there and has plunged Ekiti into economic crisis. He also has his records that we can work against. It is only MOB that has not been there before. He was in Lagos and spent quality time as a special assistant, special adviser and as a commissioner and while there, he was the one feeding the party in Ekiti for seven and half years. We all felt his impact. He was giving largesse to kings and the entire populace and thereby endeared himself to the people of the state. Again, he contested for the Senate; they took the ticket from him as they did to me and sent him to the House of Representatives. What are those things you think your candidate would do differently if he comes to power? The first is that he will govern differently. By that I mean that he will govern with human face. I have been saying it and I know it is his number one priority. I know that he will return our people to the pride of yesteryears. In the old Western Region, cocoa aided the development of the region. In the time of Awolowo, cocoa was the pride of the West and 35 per cent of the cocoa came from Ekiti. At that time, Western Region was the largest exporter of cocoa in West Africa and we know what we did with cocoa in the region. Any nation that cannot feed itself is not a nation. So I know he will face agriculture and I know that he will turn us all into agriculturists. He will make us to bring the beauty of God out of the ground by tilling it. He has analysed it, saying that about N4 billion worth of food is consumed daily in Lagos and most of it is imported from the North. Ekiti is just about four hours to Lagos. Even if it is only N200 million worth of food we supply to Lagos, our farmers will not go hungry. So, he will invest heavily in agriculture. He will open the rural roads so that the farmers can bring their products to the market easily. Another thing I know he will do is to make Ekiti people to start to benefit from her commonwealth. What I mean by that is that the people in Ekiti will be enjoying the benefits of Ekiti. Right now, it is foreigners that are enjoying what Ekiti people should have been enjoying. The entire infrastructure they say they are developing in Ekiti are being done by foreigners; they have been bringing people from Ghana, from China and so on. The Government House is being built by Chinese company. Pavillion and civic centre are all being built by foreign companies. Are we saying that we don’t have engineers from Ekiti? They have reduced our people to hewers of wood and drawers of water. They are not benefiting anything. But this MOB of a man has said if he becomes governor, he will engage artisans in the state. He will engage the Ekiti professionals in the

Olayisade business of Ekiti. The onus would now be on the professionals so engaged to do it right and if you fail to do that, everybody knows your father’s house. You will spoil your own father’s name. But right now, they siphon the money out of the system, the money does not stay in the economy and people are suffering in its entirety. Those are some of the things I know that he will do differently. At the outset of your fallout with the Kayode Fayemi administration, you were said to have suffered some persecution. What about it and have you forgiven your alleged persecutors? They didn’t offend us, they offended God. In the Bible, when there was unnecessary envy between Cain and Abel, and Cain killed his brother Abel and thought he could hide it from God, and God asked him and he queried if he was his brother’s keeper, God said to him that the blood of your brother is crying for justice. That day God cursed him that he would be a wanderer, and that nobody should kill him and He put a mark on Cain. So, in the same vein, it is God that gives life. Whoever that takes another man’s life either for politics or for anything, the judgment is between the person and God. So, who are we to say that we have forgiven somebody when we come to that? It is only God that can do that. In my wisdom, I can only say that they should beg God for forgiveness. As for us, God said “touch not my anointed and do my prophet no harm.” God is able because of his anointing. How do you see the chances of LP in the election? Our chances are bright because we have been mobilising for the party since about seven months ago. We have been going from one house to another; unit by unit; ward by ward and local government by local government and the response by the people has been heartwarming due to a number of reasons. The first reason is that LP is regarded as the only progressive party in the real sense of progressivism because ideologically, the All Progressives Congress (APC) has lost it as a party. They have merged with some sections of PDP, the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) and all other parties. So, ideology has taken flight and APC just wants to win election by all means and at all cost. So, it is no more ideological the way it used to be in the time of Awolowo. Besides, there is no entrenchment of internal democracy in the party. So, the people have seen what Governor Kayode Fayemi can do and he is still doing it. People have tested former Governor Ayodele Fayose and people have known his worth. But Honourable Michael Opeyemi Bamidele, we have seen his antecedents due to what he has done in Lagos State and what he has been doing in Ekiti endeared him to the mind of Ekiti people. When we commenced our movement, we started with Bibiire Coalition. This coalition is a conglomeration of good people from APC, PDP, from Accord Party and even people who are apolitical. They are now joining us to form a common front to rescue Ekiti State from political doldrums we have found ourselves now. And that has made the chances of Labour Party very bright. Internal democracy is lacking in

APC and PDP is enmeshed in crisis following their primaries and while they are trying to mend their fences, we have seen that it has been difficult to put together a bottle that has been broken. All these and due to the hard work have shown us that for sure, Labour Party is the party to beat and we know that come June 21, we will win the election. Ekiti has 177 wards and it is the belief of many that your party has not got presence in many of the wards. How do you react to the contention that your presence is lacking in most wards in Ekiti? It is a misnomer for people to say that we don’t have presence in all the wards in the state. I can tell as the chairman of Contact and Mobilization Committee of LP that in 80 per cent of the wards in Ekiti, we have over 600 members. We have a register and we registered people right from their units. In my community in Ido/Osi Local Government Area of Ekiti State, we have two wards and we have over 3,000 registered members. So, tell me how any other party would come to my town and defeat me there? It is not possible. And this is even so in the local government area. The people saying it know that it is not true, that is why they have been pursuing us with cutlasses, guns and cudgels in any part of the state we have gone to campaign. If we don’t have presence in all the parts of the state, why are they worried about us and have been disrupting our rallies? They should ignore us and go on with their campaign business. The PDP and APC know this fact and the apprehension is why the APC is unnecessarily being aggressive now. In each ward in Ekiti today, we have an average of 500 members in our register. We have over 118,000 members in our register, I mean genuine people, not fake. You started with Bibiire Coalition you described as ‘a conglomeration of good people’ from other political parties and apolitical people. You also said the APC is made up of people from other parties too. Don’t you think something is common in APC and LP? There is no similarity. In every household there are good people and bad eggs. The meaning of Bibiire is “people with good antecedent” who have ideology and whose interest is not all about money and never allow money to interfere with the vision they have for their communities. We searched for ourselves, not necessarily for this governorship election but we want to take our people out of the political crisis and economic chaos we have found ourselves in. The people want LP because it is the only true progressive party as I stated which political blueprint is truth in line with what Governor Olusegun Mimiko is doing in Ondo State with respect to internal democracy. Any party that does not entrench internal democracy, which is fond of imposition and hand-picking of candidates, cannot be said to be democratic. It is also the contention of some people in the state that your party was waiting for those who would dump the PDP following the crisis that would erupt after their primaries. Are you not disappointed that it did not happen? I am not disappointed because people are defecting to our party on daily basis. Strategically, we are not making noise about it? I mean prominent politicians? There is no ‘big fish’ in Ekiti politics. No big fish, but when we are talking about big fish in Ekiti today, all the big fishes are all in Labour Party. Apology to pride, when you are talking about big fish, we are talking of people who can win two are three wards in an election. In Ekiti, there is nobody who is like the late Lamidi Adedibu of Oyo State or Rashidi Ladoja or Mimiko of Ondo State. We have not produced such a political leader in Ekiti politics. We, however, have two or three people who can work together and win their local government. In Ido/Osi Local Government for example, before I joined the defunct Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), then in Ido/Osi, the ACN had never won a single ward. I joined when former Governor Segun Oni was there; I joined ACN when Professor Babalola Borishade was there, when Professor Tunde Adeniran was a minister and other chieftains of the PDP were there with bags of money. But in Ekiti, money alone does not win elections for you. You will spend your money and it will be in vain because people will just take your money for nothing. I did not collect any money from either the ACN or Governor Fayemi but I

called my people and they rallied round me; I spent 80 per cent of the money but the party (ACN) paid for the party agents and we won seven out of the eleven wards in Ido/Osi. Through rigging, four wards were declared and we took the remaining three to the tribunal and that is what gave Fayemi victory. So if you are talking of big fishes, take MOB for example, he won almost all the polling units where he contested election for the House of Representatives in 2011. This is because of what he had been doing to benefit his constituency. Won’t you say former Governor Niyi Adebayo is a big fish in Ekiti politics? They are only big by name. The political influence of former Governor Segun Oni has waned because when you have political machinery you cannot oil, it will dwindle. So, the first layer of people that you call the ‘big men’ may not join us for reasons best known to them. Some of them are getting contracts in Abuja, some of them are old, some of them have failed and fear of the unknown are all factor. But the people in the second layer are all with us in the LP and time will tell. Sir, you could be referred to as a key member of the administration of Dr Kayode Fayemi in Ekiti State. At what point did you realise that you could no longer continue in the administration and in your former political party? I contested for the Senate in the party and I won the primary but they took the ticket from me the same way they took the ticket form MOB. I didn’t join the party because I must be in the Senate. However, when you are in a party as a full-fledged, strong financial member; despite the fact that I fought hard for the emergence of the Fayemi administration, and you are being treated like an interloper by your party and your presence fails to matter to them and only a few people are managing the entire affairs, it calls for concern. If you don’t know (Bola) Tinubu in Lagos, if you are not in the good books of Yemi Adaramodu here in Ekiti and if they lie to the governor against you, it is a serious cause for concern. Then, when MOB comes to my house to say hello, they will tag you ‘MOB man’. If they want the governor to ostracise you, they will just go and say you are ‘MOB man.’ And you join politics out of free will. In the government, I was put in charge of project monitoring but I had no single vehicle to work with, there was no running grant. I said how can I monitor projects without a single vehicle to move about? So all these things combined made me to decide that enough is enough. So, the ‘enough is enough’ amounted to your quitting the government? Yes. I quit the government and I quit the party. You now want your former party out of government through the ballot? Yes. And by the grace of God I will do all that is humanly possible within my own power, and in everywhere I have people in the state to achieve this. I am very much entrenched in the politics of Ekiti State because I have been around since the year 2000. But the APC refers to your party as ‘minute’ in the state? They say you have the least presence among your co-contestants. How would you react to that? There isn’t really anything to react to in that because they know that they are deceiving themselves. When I am deceiving you, it’s okay. But when I start to deceive myself, then there is a problem. If we are minute, like I asked earlier, why will they be chasing us all around the state with thugs and be killing our members? The claims are that when you get to each of the towns you have gone to campaign, your Labour Party visits the APC chiefs there with violence? They said this had happened in Okemesi, Ipole-Iloro, Aramoko, Erijiyan. If you contact the Commissioner of Police, they will show you the approval given to us before the commencement of the campaign. We secured omnibus approval for our campaign for the 90 days that the law permits us to campaign. That is also the benchmark they used for other political parties. For example, when we are to campaign in one town today, the other political parties already know that we shall be there. I can say that the PDP has been law-abiding for now but the APC will come there and cause confusion. What will they say is their business at our rallies? We have never

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INTERVIEW

‘Why Ekiti will reject Fayemi’ The candidate of Accord Party (AP) in the Ekiti State governorship election, Kole Ajayi, a lawyer, in this interview speaks on why the people will vote for him and what he would do differently if elected. From Muyiwa Adeyemi (Head South West Bureau Ado Ekiti) OW do you see the chances of H Accord Party in the coming election? Our chances are very bright, first of all, the game is now very obvious against the incumbent, people don’t want him again. This is very imperative and sacrosanct within the opinion field of Ekiti people. So once the incumbent, Dr. Kayode Fayemi is no longer wanted, people are now looking for where do we go from there, they want a credible alternative. But we are the only party that has a message, because we lay our principles on home-based government. We started from Ekiti Koya. The principle of Ekiti Koya is for home-based government, welfarism, no to capital flight and no to godfatherism, good and transparent governance. It was on this four reasons that Accord was brought to Ekiti and we keep re-echoing this because if you look at the history of Ekiti, you will realize that since 1999 to date people that have been coming to superintend over the state as governor, they do not understand the terrain, they are people that are alien to the system, they don’t know where the shoe pinches the people, they even do not understand the cultural values of Ekiti, the truth is that they cannot even speak Ekiti dialect as homogenous as Ekiti dialect is, so Ekiti people have identified where the lacuna is, and they believe that the only panacea to ensure that, is for the home boy to take over the reign of governance and with what is on the ground now Accord is the only home grown political party and I, as the candidate is the only contestant that has been living among the people since I was born. Though I was exposed but I have been deeply involved in the nitty gritty of Ekiti politics. The synergy with the people is very strong. That is why you see me campaigning to people in Ekiti dialect. I am the only candidate that can do that, by and large, our networks are everywhere, our campaign buses everywhere, our posters are very visible. Though we have not started open campaign, but we are already in touch with the people that matter especially at the grassroots and we shall soon begin mass rallies. You have to be careful especially when the giants you are competing with are violent, we want the vote, not the noise. Winning election is not a matter of people showcasing rented crowd. We are all students of history, we saw the crowd APC put together in Ondo State, but they could not win a polling booth. It is not a matter of crowd, it is a matter of serious political work, and that is exactly what we are doing. We understand the terrain and the people. But your party is not that visible compared to the APC, PDP and LP? Feasibility is subjective, you have said it, the face of some parties may be more feasible but to some other people the Accord is more feasible. It depends on individual assessment, and I don’t understand what you mean by feasibility. Are they

feasible because they share some bags of rice, is it as a result of many posters, is it because they are dishing out money or moving around in exotic Jeeps (SUVs). To me, that is not feasibility. One thing I want you to know is that ever before the preparation for this election that we have been with the people. When we started Ekiti Koya, Fayose was still probably relaxing and yet to understand what to do and of course, Bamidele was still enjoying the blues with APC, but we were out. Ekiti Koya was the only group confronting this present government, telling the present government its excesses. We roll out drums and of course, we have not wavered at all, from Ekiti Koya, we moved to a political party to make sure we achieve what Ekiti people wanted. So when you talk of feasibility, we are more feasible because our message is like spirit that moves around with the people. We are not doing badly at all, if anything, we are more in the consciousness of people than other parties. We have about 20 campaign buses in town, we have molue type, which none of them has and our posters are everywhere. Yes you may see the billboard of the incumbent everywhere because he has this monopoly of signage when I don’t think he needs these advertisements because people know his capabilities, they know his Ajayi policies and what he is capable of doing, but we are relatively new There are 177 wards in Ekiti State. want negotiation, I would have and innocent, I have been consis- Do you have structures in all these done that long time ago but I want to assure the public that tent in my message. wards? As I have told the people, I am go- Yes, we have our structures. We had there is no going back, no retreat, ing to sign a comprehensive open our congress in May last year and it no surrender. Everybody that bond with the people on what I was adjudged to be the best in the knows my antecedent knows am going to do, this is an oath, so entire state by INEC. At that time, that I was not brought up as a that by and large by the time we all other parties were yet to find coward. Check my resume, you get there, we want to focus on the their footing. We are everywhere will see that God has, indeed premasses, that is welfarism. but because we do not flaunt pared me for the journey. There is this impression in the money like others do, may be that Amongst all of them, I don’t think state that the election is going to is what is giving people impression anyone of them can rank me, outbe a straight contest between that Accord is not feasible. Go to side government, at the entry Fayemi and Fayose. Do you agree? the farmsteads, Accord is the song point of government none of No, that is wrong, this election is they are singing. We are going to them have achieved what I have not between Fayemi and Fayose, spring a surprise. achieved, in terms of contribuplease go to town again and do How will you react to insinuations tion to the development of Ekiti random sampling, people don’t that you may step down for an- society, I stand to be corrected, it like violence, anywhere there is vi- other stronger candidate? is very obvious. Educationally, I olence, the mind of the people That is not possible because my be- am prepared, I had my first deshift from there. You should be ing in this race, it is because of my gree in Sciences at the age of 20 in hearing the shoot out between strong belief in the fact that I will 1987 and 18 years after I went back the supporters of these candi- be the next governor of Ekiti State. to secondary school to write Litdates you mentioned. In fact We are not God, when God says yes, erature to read Law. For five years Labour Party has also joined them nobody can say no. I have been try- I was in a classroom, the sixth in this game of violence, the rea- ing to exercise some reservations year, I went to Law School and left son why the party is also being re- in terms of the spiritual thing. I in 2011 after which I joined polijected by the people. Everyday have a very strong conviction that tics. So when we are talking of rethey keep shooting at each other. this is a divine project. If I wanted silience, I am there, when you are We don’t shoot, we don’t carry to negotiate with any candidate, talking of adhering strictly with guns, we are free with the people that must have happened since be- what you believe, I am not desas you can see me, I am the freest cause all the other contestants are perate but I know God will see me man on earth. not strangers to me. The incum- through. With the obvious achievement Election is not supposed to be a bent was my senior in school, if I do-or-die affair, if you want to rule over the people and you keep Election is not supposed to be a do-or-die affair, if you want to killing and maiming, it is appalling. You can see the number rule over the people and you keep killing and maiming, it is apof killings since the campaign palling. You can see the number of killings since the campaign started, it is like a couple looking for a baby and by the time the An- started, it is like a couple looking for a baby and by the time gel brings the baby, there is tur- the Angel brings the baby, there is turmoil between the family, moil between the family, the baby will reject dwelling in the womb the baby will reject dwelling in the womb of a mother full of criof a mother full of crisis, the baby sis, the baby will prefer to reside in the womb of the mother will prefer to reside in the womb that is peaceful. of the mother that is peaceful.

we have seen in the state in the last three and half years, what do you want to do differently? There are a lot of areas previous and present governments have abandoned in Ekiti especially, the area of welfarism and industrialization. I don’t know why Ekiti does not have industries, so our government will shift the economy of Ekiti from the table of the governor to a system driven economy. We want to package a holistic programme that will put Ekiti on a very economic stead and we shall do all these within a comprehensive frame work, more importantly, the economy, education, agriculture, infrastructure and all will now dovetail into solid industrial development. We are planning to make sure industries spring up in every local government and these industries will be based on tapping materials from prevailing agricultural product available in that local council. Where we have a lot of fruits, grapes, oranges, lemon, we shall set up a fruit juice making industry in that locality, so with that our market women don’t have to travel to Lagos or South Africa to bring juice. We shall ensure investors come around with basic standard. Government will not involve directly in setting up of these industries but government will put equity, involved financially on behalf of Ekiti people. It is going to be a tripartite arrangement, the community cum local government will be on one side, investors on the other side while the government will be on the other side to ensure that it works well. The basis of industries set up in each local government is to ensure one hundred per cent employment for people in that area. To achieve this, we shall put up programmes to complement human development which starts with education. We shall ensure that apart from basic qualitative free education, we want to ensure that they also key into technical education. Our government will run free technical education with basic modern equipment. Unfortunately, all the technical education we have on ground are obsolete, so we are going to ensure that we take advantage facilities with World Bank, UNO etc to bring in modern equipment and we shall encourage the youths to go into that. We shall also ensure that every local government has Skill Acquisition centres even people that graduated from any course will go to these centres to learn skill. This will help them to equip their capacity to equip themselves. So we will create that opportunity for our youth to learn fabrication, moulding, welding refrigeration etc, the centres will be well equipped for people to spend three, six or nine months to acquire skills and government will assist them with financial opportunities to set up their own or connect them to where they can upgrade their skills. We will patronize them by ensuring they key into many state projects that we shall embark upon. It is going to be a total economic package that will, on the long run boost the economy of the state. We want to make sure that the capital flight currently affecting Ekiti stops forthwith, one hundred per cent of contractors working in Ekiti now are from Lagos, Ekiti people are not patronised, that is why poverty is written in everybody’s face. We shall put things back into normal and ensure Ekiti economy resides

Tuesday, May 13, 2014

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Tuesday, May 13, 2014

SPORTS Tuesday, May 13, 2014

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Sports Countdown To Brazil 2014 World Cup

Honeywell explains support for sporting events

This is Mikel’s opportunity to lead Eagles to success, says Okocha By Christian Okpara uper Eagles’ former Captain, Austin ‘Jay Jay’ Okocha, believes the Brazil 2014 World Cup is specifically made for players of John Obi Mikel’s caliber, saying the Chelsea midfielder should seize the opportunity to show the world the stuff he is made of. Looking at Nigeria’s prospect at the Mundial Coupe, Okocha believes that the Super Eagles would do well if players like Mikel take up the leadership roles in the team. According to Okocha, who jokingly said he is jealous of the type of support the current Super Eagles are getting from the football federation, governments and corporate Nigerians, the Eagles have all it takes to get to the second round and “from there, depending on luck, anything can happen.” The Guardian recalls that Mikel played a sterling role in Super Eagles’ defeat of Cote d’Ivoire in the quarterfinal of the South Africa 2013 Nations Cup, which paved the way for Nigeria to win the trophy by beating Burkina Faso in the final. Okocha said: “The World Cup is a bigger stage than the Nations Cup and for a player like Mikel, there is no better stage to show the world that he is as good anybody in the game. “Some people may have written him off because of his problems in Chelsea, but I

believe Mikel, if he comes out to play, is as good as anybody.” Okocha commended Nigerians for their support for the Eagles, saying the team have all it takes to succeed in Brazil. “We saw what the president did for them when they came back from South Africa and I think that is enough to push them to excel in Brazil,” he added. Okocha refrained from commenting on the caliber of players coach Stephen Keshi picked for the preliminary camping ahead of the World Cup, saying, “the coach has been given an assignment, so should allow him to di the job.” Another Super Eagles’ former captain, Kanu Nwankwo, believes Nigeria has the quality to get to the quarterfinal of the World Cup, saying the team is as good as the best sides going to Brazil. According to Kanu, “forget what you read in the media, all the teams in Nigeria’s group are afraid of the Super Eagles. “We are a quality team and I think if the coach harnesses the players very well we will surprise the world in Brazil. “During our time, if we were placed in this kid of group, we would go to sleep because I don’t see any problem in any of the teams, including Argentina.” Okocha and Kanu spoke to the press during the unveiling of Globacom’s ‘Go Ahead Eagles campaign’ in Lagos yesterday.

Standard Chartered International Tourney

Nigeria meets cup holders, Thailand, in first game at Anfield HE Nigerian team to the T 2014 Standard Chartered international tournament taking place at Anfield, Liverpool, will today will face defending champions, Thailand, in their first game of the round-robin first round after both teams were drawn together in Group A yesterday. Thailand won the 2013 tournament by beating Dubai in the final. Thailand are again one of the favourites at this year’s edition . “We know they’re good in Futsal (5-aside) football but we are ready for them,” Nigerian captain, Demola Omitayo, said confidently after the draw held at the famous Liverpool Boot Room at Anfield. “Our strategy is to win or get at least a draw in our first game, then take our chances in subsequent games. Our target is to qualify for the semifinals. After that, anything can happen,” he said. Other Group A teams in the order that Nigeria will face them are Kenya, Korea, MENA, Singapore and West African brothers Gambia. Group B is made up of Vietnam, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Europe, Pakistan,

Bangladesh and Indonesia. The top two teams in each group will qualify for the semi-finals from whence the tournament will be played out on a knock-out basis. The Standard Chartered Road to Anfield Trophy is sponsored by Standard Chartered Bank to promote friendship amongst its major markets around the world .

ONEyWELL Flour Mills H Plc, maker of Honeywell noodles has explained its support for sporting events in the country, saying its ambition is to promote good cause through sponsorship of sporting activities and other laudable programs. The company was visibly at the weekend, during the grand finale of the Lagos Ibile Games where Ojoo Local Government floored their Surulere counterparts 3-1 on penalty. Executive Director Marketing, Benson Evbuomwan said the company would continue to support good causes especially those that has to do with grassroots development in sports. According to him, “Honeywell is interested in using sports to get across to consumer of our products, like you know, children, teenagers, and young adults are lovers of our products, so any opportunity that we have to interacts with this target groups, which sports provide, we love to take full advantage of this. Explaining the essence of the partnership, he said “we are always interested in supporting sports events because sports could be expensive.’’

Mikel

Scotland names squad for friendly against Eagles ERBy County duo, Chris D Martin and Craig Forsyth, have received their first Scotland call-ups for the friendly against Nigeria. Manager Gordon Strachan announced his squad yesterday for the match at Craven Cottage on May 28. Martin has scored 25 goals this season, including two as the Rams beat Brighton 6-2 on aggregate to secure a Championship play-off final spot. The striker, 25, was born in England but his father was born in Scotland. Martin played four times for England under-19s, scoring two goals, and Strachan has been impressed with his linkup play with Derby midfielder, Craig Bryson, who has also been called up. “Chris Martin would have

been in the squad the last time but unfortunately we couldn’t get the clearance from FIFA in time,” Strachan explained. “He’s got a physical presence but he’s a footballer. He’s not the quickest but he’s got a quick mind, he sees people in, he scores goals, and when the ball comes up to him it very rarely goes back the other way. “When you look at the link up between him and Bryson I think it’s 40 odd goals they’ve scored between them. It’s a smashing partnership.” Bryson, who has won two Scotland caps, has scored 16 goals this term and Forsyth has also enjoyed an excellent season for Steve McClaren’s Rams. “young Craig at left back, I think he’s played every game this year, and if you get picked by Steve McClaren every game

there should be a good chance of getting picked by me,” Strachan added. Forsyth started his career at Dundee and clinched a move to Watford in 2011. The 25-year-old had loan spells at Bradford and Derby before moving to Pride Park on a permanent deal last summer. PFA Scotland young player of the year Andrew Robertson, of Dundee United, has received his second call-up. In the squad are: Goalkeepers: Cammy Bell (Rangers), Matt Gilks (Blackpool), David Marshall (Cardiff City) and Allan McGregor (Hull City). Defenders: Christophe Berra (Ipswich Town), Gary Caldwell (Wigan Athletic), Craig Forsyth (Derby County), Gordon Greer (Brighton and

Hove Albion), Grant Hanley (Blackburn Rovers), Alan Hutton (Aston Villa), Charlie Mulgrew (Celtic), Andrew Robertson (Dundee United) and Steven Whittaker (Norwich City. Midfielders: Ikechi Anya (Watford), Barry Bannan (Crystal Palace), George Boyd (Hull City), Scott Brown (Celtic), Craig Bryson (Derby County), Chris Burke (Birmingham City), Graham Dorrans (West Bromwich Albion), Darren Fletcher (Manchester United), James McArthur (Wigan Athletic) and James Morrison (West Bromwich Albion). Forwards: Leigh Griffiths (Celtic), Shaun Maloney (Wigan Athletic), Chris Martin (Derby County), Ross McCormack (Leeds United) and Steven Naismith (Everton).

England names youthful team for Brazil 2014 IDFIELDERS Frank M Lampard and Steven Gerrard were among just six World Cup veterans selected by England for its 23-man World Cup roster. Forward Wayne Rooney, goalkeeper Joe Hart, defender Glen Johnson and midfielders James Milner were the other players picked with World Cup experience. Lampard turns 36 on June 20, the day after England plays Uruguay in its second groupstage match. “Frank is a very important part of our setup and you shouldn’t

think about players in terms of age, but of position,” England coach, Roy Hodgson, said yesterday. “When you’re in midfield, you have many more positions to choose from. “Frank has been captain on many occasions and has been vice captain to Steven Gerrard. He still plays an important role for his club and we think his leadership qualities and his abilities will help us in the summer.” 11 players have made 10 appearances or fewer for England, which plays Italy in its first-round opener on June

14 and also is grouped with Costa Rica. “He has had a wonderful season ... and is capturing the headlines with his form and ability,” Hodgson said. 19-year-old Liverpool winger, Raheem Sterling and 20-yearold Everton midfielder, Ross Barkley, who total five international appearances, also were selected. “He’s a very, very exciting player, a very exciting talent and if he can continue at that level he has a very exciting future ahead of him,” Hodgson said of Barkley. “But I would hope

people will temper their expectations of him.” The only player picked who isn’t with a Premier League club is backup goalkeeper Fraser Forster of Scotland’s Glasgow Celtic. In the team are goalkeepers Joe Hart (Manchester City), Fraser Forster (Glasgow Celtic, Scotland) and Ben Foster (West Bromwich Albion). The defenders include Leighton Baines (Everton), Gary Cahill (Chelsea), Phil Jagielka (Everton), Glen Johnson (Liverpool), Phil Jones (Manchester United), Luke

Shaw (Southampton), and Chris Smalling (Manchester United). In the midfield are Ross Barkley (Everton), Steven Gerrard (Liverpool), Jordan Henderson (Liverpool), Adam Lallana (Southampton), Frank Lampard (Chelsea), James Milner (Manchester City), Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain (Arsenal), Raheem Sterling (Liverpool), and Jack Wilshere (Arsenal). The attack includes Rickie Lambert (Southampton), Wayne Rooney (Manchester United), Daniel Sturridge (Liverpool) and Daniel

Tuesday, May 13, 2014 SPORTS

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Jonathan launches ‘Protect The Goal’ campaign • UNAIDS pledges 2m condoms to Brazil 2014 World Cup From Mohammed Abubakar and Ezeocha Nzeh, Abuja ReSIDenT goodluck P Jonathan yesterday officially launched the United nations AIDS campaign, tagged ‘Protect The goals,’ with a promise to use football as a tool to spread the antiHIV/AIDS campaign in the country. Performing the ceremony at the State House, Abuja, the president said the campaign would seek to harness the convening power of football as a tool to support HIV interventions in nigeria, stressing that the prevention of HIV/AIDS, polio and the reduction of maternal and child mortalityhad been and remain core priorities for his administration. He noted that “over the years serving in various capacities from my days in Bayelsa State

as a governor till today as the President of this country, I have been personally involved in efforts at addressing this scourge, that is why in July last year we hosted the Abuja plus 12 special summit of African Union Heads of States and governments on HIV/AIDS of which we launched the programme, which resolved to implement measures to accelerate the eradication of these diseases in Africa by the year 2030. “Ahead of that summit, we will launch a landmark comprehensive response plan to eradicate HIV/AIDS from nigeria beginning with an initiate aimed at getting 80 million nigerians tested for HIV in the next two years.” earlier during a visit to the Minister of Sports/Chairman of the national Sports Commission (nSC) in Abuja,

2014 CBN Open Tennis

Atseye begins well, as women top seed crash out efenDIng champion, seed, Babalola enjoyed a D Henry Atseye, made a comfortable 6-0, 6-1 win over winning start to the Central Chukwu Abaa, while the fireBank of nigeria (CBn) Open Tennis Championship with a 6-3, 6-3 win over qualifier Sodiq Tswako, but the first major upset of the championship was recorded as women top seed, Blessing Samuel was bundled in the first round. Samuel was a finalist last year and was widely expected to win the match after winning the Dala Championship in Kano, the last major tournament before the CBn Open, but she met her match in Aiyegbusi, who won 6-4, 4-6, 7-5. Aiyegbusi bagged two qualifying wins to reach the main draw. A host of other men’s seeded players, including top seed Clifford enosoregbe, Abdulmimunui Babalola and Candy Idoko also progressed to the second round following first round wins. enosoregbe was not made to sweat much as Alozie Ikechukwu, a qualifier retired with scores at 5-0 to enosoregbe, who will now confront Destiny ford-Da Silva, a 6-1, 6-4 winner over wildcard beneficiary, Martin Abamu in the second round. 2012 champion and fourth

power of Holland-based Idoko overwhelmed Sani Waziri, who retired at 6-1, 5-0. Old warhorse, Sunday Maku, beat Tyolumun Tyav 63, 6-2 to also advance to the second round, while Musa Bala defeated Sani Adamu 61, 7-6 (6).

the Special Assistant to the UnAIDS executive Director, Dr. Jubril Diallo, in the company of the director general of the national Agency for the Control of AIIDS, (nACA), said as part of its measures to promote an HIV/ AIDS free championship, the agency had concluded plans to distribute over two million condoms to football fans at the Brazil 2014 fIfA World Cup. Diallo explained that the ‘Protect The Ball’ campaign seeks to harness the power of sports through the 2014 fIfA World Cup in Brazil to promote an Aids free generation, stressing that the campaign aims to achieve three things, including the need to have zero HIV infections, zero discrimination towards HIV patients and zero AIDS related deaths. He noted that the campaigns objective was to raise awareness of AIDS and prevention of pregnancy among teenagers, adding that the campaign, which kicked off in a world tour that started with South Africa on March 5, during the friendly game between Brazil and South Africa, would tour all the 32 nations that have qualified for the World Cup where their heads of states would sign their endorsement on the campaign. He also revealed that that the ‘Protect The goal’ campaign would be officially unveiled in Salvador city of Brazil on June 9 before the first game of the World Cup.

Luis Enrique may become new Barcelona coach eLTA Vigo coach Luis tragic passing of former boss, C enrique is on the verge of a Tito Vilanova, late last o n t h . summer switch to Barcelona m and is keen to make Lionel Messi the central piece in the Catalan club’s new sporting p r o j e c t . The former Barca B boss, who played for the Blaugrana between 1996 and 2004, met with sporting director, Andoni Zubizarreta, last week at his house in the seaside town of gava and, according to Goal.com, he is now in pole position to take over at Camp nou at the end of the season. Current coach, gerardo Martino, is set on leaving Barcelona following a season blighted by problems off the pitch, including the controversy surrounding neymar’s move to the club, Sandro Rosell’s resignation and the

Luis enrique was considered for the coach’s job when Vilanova stepped down on health grounds last July, but the Asturian had already taken over at Celta and Barca opted for Martino instead. But after a successful season, which has seen the galician side impress following a slow start, Luis enrique’s reputation has grown and the northern outfit sit in eighth place in the Primera Division after beating Real Madrid 2-0 on Sunday. The former Spain midfielder has refused to comment on a possible move, but said on Sunday: “I would like Barcelona to win La Liga. I have no reason to hide that.”

Nigerian stars at the Standard chartered Anfield Challenge: Opeyemi Dairo (Standing left), Pelumi Joseph, Oladipo Lawani, Toochukwu Amachoi. Amrit Ratnani (Squatting left), Taofeek Edidi and Demola Omitayo.

Super Eagles’ star, Victor Moses (right) outpaces Italy’s Di Maggio during an international friendly in London. Fowler hails the Nigerian international’s contribution to Liverpool’s success this season.

Fowler praises Moses’ skills, Barnes explains Liverpool’s slide ORMeR Liverpool striker, fapplauded Robbie fowler, has the contributions of nigerian midfielder, Victor Moses, to the club’s second place finish in the just concluded english Premier League season despite the player failing to tie down a regular place in the starting l i n e - u p . fowler passed his verdict during a media conference at the ongoing 2014 Standard Chartered Road to Anfield international tournament taking place in Liverpool. “I saw Moses close-up at our training sessions and I was always amazed at his high level of skills,” began fowler, when asked whether he was disappointed by the player’s limited contributions to the title challenge. “I’m sure he left Chelsea on loan to Liverpool with an intention to play a big part in our club but, obviously, he didn’t get much playing time

this season. “I will put that down to the great partnership that the other strikers Luis Suarez, Daniel Sturigge and Raheem Sterling were able to establish as the season developed. Those three struck a great understanding and scored lots of goals amongst themselves, so it was difficult for Moses or anyone else to separate them. That doesn’t make Moses a bad player, in my o p i n i o n . ” fowler will, however, not be drawn on whether Liverpool should keep Moses for next season when the club will return to european Champions League action. He said: “We definitely need to strengthen the team to mount another challenge both for the Premier League and the Champions League. But who we bring in or who goes or stays are decisions for the manager Brendan Rogers to make.”

Meanwhile, former england international, John Barnes, said a “dip in form” was responsible for Liverpool’s failure to end their english Premier League title drought despite coming very close in the just-concluded season. The reds were top of the table and in control of their title destiny until three weeks to the end of the season when they lost 2-0 at home to Chelsea, followed by a 3-3 draw away to Crystal Palace, which all but ended their challenge and handed the initiative to eventual champions Manchester City. “We didn’t lose the title to Chelsea, neither did we lose it at Crystal Palace as many people have suggested,” said Barnes, while talking to journalists at the Liverpool Academy as part of the 2014 Standard Chartered Road to Anfield tournament programmes.

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94 SPORTS Tuesday, May 13, 2014

Cameroun picks familiar faces for World Cup AMEROON coach Volker C Finke has opted for a tried and trusted line-up in his 28-man provisional World Cup squad. The German has picked all but one of the group of players who earned the Indomitable Lions’ place at Brazil with the play-off win over Tunisia. Striker Jacques Zoua, who plays for Hamburg, is the unfortunate man to miss out because of injury. Much will be expected of forward Vincent Aboubakar after his 16 goals for Lorient this season. That places him joint-second highest scorer in the French Ligue 1 behind only Zlatan Ibrahimovic. He is set to partner elder statesman Samuel Eto’o, who remains Cameroon’s all-time leading scorer with 55 goals. Goalkeepers: Charles Itandje (Konyaspor), Guy Roland Ndy Assembe ( Guingamp), Sammy Ndjock

(Fethiyespor), Feudjou Loic (Coton Sport). Defenders: Allan Nyom (Granada), Nounkeu Dany (Besiktas), Cedric Djeugoue (Coton Sport), Aurelien Chedjou (Galatasaray), Nicolas Nkoulou (Marseille), Jean-Armel Kana-Biyick (Rennes), Henri Bedimo (Lyon), Benoit Assou-Ekotto (QPR), Gaetang Bong (Olympiakos). Midfielders: Enoh Eyong (Antalyaspor), Jean Makoun (Rennes), Joel Matip (Schalke 04), Stephane Mbia (Sevilla, on loan from QPR), Landry Nguemo (Bordeaux), Alexandre Song (Barcelona), Cedric Loe (Osasuna), Edgar Salli (Lens). Forwards: Samuel Eto’o (Chelsea), Eric-Maxime Choupo-Moting (Mainz 05), Benjamin Moukandjo (Nancy), Vincent Aboubakar (Lorient), Pierre Achille Webo (Fenerbahce), Mohamadou Idrissou (Kaiserslautern), Fabrice Olinga (Zulte Waregem).

Aston Villa for sale STON Villa owner Randy A Lerner has announced that the Premier League club is being put up for sale. The American assumed control of Villa in 2006 after a £62.6m takeover was agreed with the club’s board. “I owe it to Villa to move on, and look for fresh, invigorated leadership, if in my heart I feel I can no longer do the job,” he said in a statement. Villa finished the season in 15th position, five points above the relegation zone. Their Premier League status was only secured with victory over Hull City on 3 May and the future of manager Paul Lambert remains uncertain. Lerner, who bought the club in August 2006 from Doug Ellis, had said last month that he would address speculation regarding his own future at the club in the summer. In his statement issued on Monday, the 51-year-old owner said he had engaged Bank of America Merrill Lynch to advise on the club’s sale.

Aboubakar is named in Cameroun’s World Cup squad

...Ghana picks 26 for camp EICESTER City defender, Lpicked Jeffery Schlupp, has been in Ghana’s preliminary 26-man World Cup squad. The Germany-born Schlupp has only one Ghana cap but his form helped Leicester win promotion to the Premier League. Helsingborg striker, David Accam, is another surprise inclusion, winning his place after a burst of 10 goals in 10

games for his Swedish club. Ghana coach, Kwesi Appiah, dropped a number of big names, including ex-captain John Mensah and Isaac Vorsah. Michael Essien has been selected for his second World Cup after missing the 2010 tournament through injury, while Asamoah Gyan and Sulley Muntari are on course to appear at the tournament for their third time.

The Black Stars will begin training in Accra on May 20 before travelling to Amsterdam for a friendly against Netherlands on May 30. Appiah says he will then prune down his squad to 23 players before heading to the United States of America for the final phase of preparations in Miami. Ghana’s final pre-World cup friendly will be against South

Korea in Miami before the team arrives in Maceio, their World Cup base on June 11, five days before their world cup opener against USA. They will also face Germany and Portugal in Group G. In the team are goalkeepers: Fatau Dauda (Orlando Pirates), Adam Kwarasey (Stromsgodset) and Stephen Adams (Aduana Stars). The defenders are Samuel Inkoom (Platanias), Daniel

Opare (Standard Liege), Harrison Afful (Esperance), Jeffrey Schlupp (Leicester), John Boye (Rennes), Jonathan Mensah (Evian), Jerry Akaminko (Kisehirspor) and Rashid Sumalia (Mamelodi Sundowns). The midfielders picked are Michael Essien (AC Milan), Sulley Muntari (AC Milan), Rabiu Mohammed (Kuban Krasnodar), Kwadwo Asamoah (Juventus),

Emmanuel Agyemang-Badu (Udinese), Afriyie Acquah (Parma), Christian Atsu (Vitesse), Albert Adomah (Middlesbrough), Andre Ayew (Marseille) and Mubarak Wakaso (Rubin Kazan). The strikers are Asamoah Gyan (Al Ain), Kevin-Prince Boateng (Schalke 04), Abdul Majeed Waris (Valenciennes), Jordan Ayew (Sochaux) and David Accam (Helsingborg).

Tuesday, May 13, 2014 SPORTS 95

THE GUARDIAN www.ngrguardiannews.com

I can win Commonwealth Games medal, says Brume • Oduduru, Akerele also dream big By Gowon Akpodonor long jumper, Ese Fit toEMALE Brume, is sure of making the podium if included in Team Nigeria’s contingent to this year’s Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. Brume is now competing with elite athletes after ruling the continent’s junior ranks in Mauritius last year, where he won two gold and a silver medal at the African Junior Championship. Brume gave her senior counterparts a big scare two weeks ago in Ilorin, where she out jumped senior girl, Chinazom Amadi, with a leap of 6.40m to claim the long jump title. She was again the cynosure of all eyes at the weekend, as she brushed aside all challengers to win the long jump title with a leap of 6.37m. Brume told The Guardian in a telephone chat yesterday that she would improve on her jump depending on the level of opposition she gets before the Commonwealth Games. “I have the belief that I can make it to the podium if the AFN believes in me. I want to be part of the Commonwealth Games,” Brume said. Also dreaming of an appear-

Goalkeeper Daniel Akpeyi is one of the players invited by Coach Stephen Keshi for camping ahead the Brazil 2014 World Cup.

Countdown To Brazil 2014 World Cup

Akpeyi on standby, players have equal opportunities, says Shorunmu By Alex Monye UPER Eagles’ assistant Sdisclosed coach, Ike Shorunmu, has that Warri Wolves’ Goalkeeper, Daniel Akpeyi, will only be picked for the Brazil 2014 World Cup if any of the other goalkeepers, Vincent Enyeama, Austin Ejide and Chigozie Agbim, are injured before the final list of players is submitted to world football governing

body, FIFA. Super Eagles’ coach, Stephen Keshi, recently named 30 players, including four goalkeepers in his provisional list for the World Cup. The team will begin their final preparation for the World Cup next week when the players are expected to assemble for the friendly game against Scotland at the Craven Cottage on May 28. Shorunmu, who is Super

Eagles’ goalkeepers’ trainer, told The Guardian that that the coaches added Daniel Akpeyi to the three regular goalkeepers to avoid a vacuum in the goalkeeping position should any of the other three cop an injury in the run up to the World Cup. “We will use all the available means to bring out the best from these players and I want to say that Keshi should not be blamed for selecting

Standard Chartered thrills Liverpool FC fans HARTERED Bank Nigeria C organized a match viewing event to delight customers and prospects, who love football at events also marking the conclusion of the Bank and Liverpool FC’s: “This is our home ground” campaign, the global campaign to increase awareness and build positive association for Standard Chartered with its sponsorship of Liverpool Football Club (LFC). Liverpool defeated Newcastle United 2-1 in the final premier league game last Sunday at Anfield. During the event tagged “This is Our Home Ground,” which took place simultaneously at two viewing centres in Lagos; on the mainland (Bheerhugz) and Island (Get Arena), the guests were thrilled with comedy, music, quality refreshment and rewarded with LFC branded gift items. There were also raffle draws where lucky winners went home with autographed Liverpool footballs and jerseys.

According to officials of the bank, the LFC “This is Our Home Ground” campaign represents an offering in the industry where existing customers with dormant or zero balance accounts who reactivated their accounts received LFC branded gift items like face caps, drawstrings bags, key rings etc. The offer was also extended to new customers who opened Savings or Current accounts within the period of the campaign. Commenting on the Bank’s focus on driving the retail Business, Standard Chartered Bank Nigeria CEO, Bola Adesola, had this to say: “Football is the world’s most popular sport and the English Premier League has tremendous appeal as the world’s most popular annual football event - broadcast to 211 territories around the world, with a total cumulative audience of 2.9 billion . “In Nigeria, football is one of the biggest passion points and owing to the huge followership of the game in the

country; our market is highly receptive to campaigns that offer good experience for football lovers. This is the reason we put this event today to give some of our customers this exclusive experience of viewing this match in a fun-filled atmosphere. “Our Bank is proud to be main sponsors of Liverpool Football Club. This partnership with Liverpool FC will help raise the profile of our brand on a global scale, enabling us to reach our target audience across our footprint,” he said. A customer of the bank and winner of authentic LFC branded jersey, Ms. Ogundokun Uyi, noted that viewing the last game of the season with other fans was exciting. “It is big fun and especially since I also won a branded jersey from today’s event. But mostly, it is also a very deserving tribute to Standard Chartered Bank for bringing customers and fans of the club in such a fun environment.”

bench warmers in the World Cup squad because he has to make use of what the country can offer. “But be assured that we shall go the extra mile to fish out the best legs out of the 30 players on ground. The screening process would be hectic for the big boss because he has just less than 10 days to release his final 23man list. “Another goalkeeper was added to the team to avoid confusion when a keeper gets injured or does not satisfy the coaches in training. This also relates to other players in the team, as Keshi would still invite any player, who proves he can be useful at the World Cup,” he said.

ance in the Commonwealth Games are two other junior athletes, Divine Oduduru and Omeiza Akerele. Oduduru produced one of the fastest times in the 100m for home-based athletes at the weekend with a time of 10.39 seconds, which is also his personal best. Over 600 athletes competed in the league and the promotional races held at the Federal University of Technology (FUTA) minisports centre, Akure. Olubodun Kehinde was second in 10.49secs, while Emuobonuvie Mamus placed third with 10.51secs. In his post race comments, Oduduru expressed gratitude to his coach for guiding him this far. He also has his eyes set on the Commonwealth Games as he promises to improve steadily in his event. Omeiza won the men’s 400m event in 46.88secs, beating experienced quartermiler, Goody James, to the second position in 47.13secs. The third position went to Ifiok Andrew Umor in 47.40secs. The fourth leg of the AFN Golden League is expected to hold in Kaduna on May 24, while the final will be in Benin on June 7.

Dawn Games: Team Lagos begins closed camping O ensure a befitting perT formance for its team during the maiden South-West States Secondary School Games, tagged DAWN Games 2014, Team Lagos will today begin closed camping of its athletes. Over 220 athletes will move into the Mahyonng Barracks in Shomolu for the camping. In a release signed by the Public Relations Officer, Lagos State Sports Council, Bashir Agunloye, the team comprises 116 male and 104 female athletes.

“We have carefully selected the best of our athletes from the junior category of the just concluded Lagos State Sports Festival, tagged IBILE Games 2014. I want to say that, while we are ready for the DAWN Games, the advantage of having just come through a competition will stand our athletes in good stead in coming out tops in their various events”, said Kweku Tandoh, the Director of Sports, Lagos State Sports Council.

African Youth Championship Qualifier Fall-Out

It’s not over yet, Obuh tells Flying Eagles By Alex Monye LYING Eagles’ former Coach, John Obuh, has called on the national U-20 team to remain focused and steadfast in their preparation for the second leg of their African Youth Championship qualifier against Tanzania despite beating the East Africans in the first leg played

Head, Business Marketing, Consumer Banking, West Africa, Standard Chartered Bank, Chima Nwuke (left) and Area Manager, Standard Chartered Bank, Jamiu Dina, at Bheerhugz Cafe when the bank hosted Liverpool fans…at the weekend.

at Dar-es-Salaam. Obuh told The Guardian yesterday that the Flying Eagles should have at the back of their mind that they would face stiffer oppositions as they forge ahead in their campaign, saying they should not allow the victory over Tanzania to get into their heads, He was, however, optimistic that the Coach Garba Manu led side would not disappoint the country in the race for the AYC ticket. “The Flying Eagles victory over Tanzania was a good start for the team. But the players need to be focused and remain resilient as they move ahead. “The Flying Eagles coaches should understand that they need to keep working on the players to able to contend with stiffer oppositions in subsequent games. In all, I believe the boys have all it takes to make Nigerian football lovers happy,” Obuh said. On the Super Eagles’ preparation for the World Cup, the Enugu Rangers coach urged Nigerians to stop criticizing the team’s boss, Stephen Keshi, for not picking some players for the championship, saying that the ‘Big Boss’ needs all the support he can get to succeed in Brazil.

TheGuardian

Tuesday, May 13, 2014

Conscience, Nurtured by Truth

By Olamide Bakare IRTUALLY every government that has V presided over the affairs of this country has caused the poor masses a great psychological and emotional trauma. This is due to the various national ills that have characterised each government. The unresolved high profile corruption cases that typified the Obasanjo Administration between 1999 and 2007 has left an indelible pain in the heart of many, having witnessed the unimaginable profligacy and wastefulness of our national resources under the disguise of fighting corruption. While those woes are still fresh in my memory and in the memory of many concerned Nigerians, the absurd gruesome killings of thousands of innocent defenceless Nigerians by the Boko Haram insurgency that have marked the Jonathan Administration in recent times have caused many defenceless citizens greater pains. One of such pains came as a result of the level of callousness displayed by the presidency shortly after the Nyanya bomb blast in Abuja on Monday, April 14. It beats my imagination that President Goodluck Jonathan could display such level unfeeling, dancing at a political rally in Kano 24 hours after witnessing the scene of the bomb blast where the blood of helpless Nigerians littered the ground. It equally beats my thinking that the presidency could muster enough effrontery to justify its callousness for attending the Kano rally. My heart bleeds when the Information Minister, Labaran Maku justified the President’s visit to the Kano rally, saying that the President was making a loud statement that the insurgents’ activities cannot stop the government from working. What a thoughtless statement! To compound the presidency’s insensitivity of the people’s sorrow, the President himself said the horrendous activities of the insurgency, particularly the carnage at Nyanya bomb blast are “unnecessary distractions.” What a pitiful exhibition of irresponsibility! Would the President have tagged the Nyanya’s ugly scene as “unnecessary distraction” were his relatives to be among the people whose blood were spilled and mutilated bodies littered the ground? Would he have gotten the fortitude to dance at the rally had the children of his relations been among the over 120 abducted school girls by the insurgents? Better still, how would our President have reacted if the venue of his daughter’s wedding suddenly got blown up? That may seem impossible due to the fact that virtually every arm of our security agencies was present on the ground to provide maximum security. Still on the same thought, would Maku have gotten the courage to justify the President’s action had any of his own immediate family been callously murdered in cold blood like those killed in the bomb blast? Probably things would have changed for the better if any of our political office holders’ relatives had fallen victim of the horrific act of the insurgency. Perhaps! It is obvious that they give themselves maximum security and leave the citizens vulnerable. If the President called the incessant heartless killings of vulnerable citizens “unnecessary distraction”, the question to ask is: From what is he being distracted? From the helpless plight of the ordinary citizens for whom there is obviously no security? Being the Chief Security Officer of the country and the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, his foremost constitutional obligation to the county is the protection of lives and property of the people. But if the President fails in his primary constitutional obligation which he has sworn to uphold, what else is he focusing on that is distracting him? Perhaps his political career! No responsible government would sacrifice the safety of the poor masses for the actualisation of its political ambition or for any other reason whatsoever. Probably the President does not realise that the blood of those who have been murdered by the insurgency since he became the President of this

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National security: Between executive protection and safety of the poor

Chief of Defence Staff, Air Marshal Alex Badeh

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country is in his hands. Although he may not be directly responsible for the massacre, providence would not exonerate him of the blood of those innocent souls that were killed under his leadership. He ought to know that—that he bears responsibility for the safety of every Nigerian. He took on the task of his own volition. He went round to ask for everybody’s vote that he be given the opportunity to bear

the tasks. It is unfortunate that Nigeria’s leaders are fond of excoriating every attack but fail to take drastic steps to put an end to the woes. Condemning every attack by the Boko Haram sect has more or less become a cliché. Terrorism is not won by mere assurance and rhetoric. Unfortunately, this has been the habitual response of Jonathan’s administra-

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tion to every dastardly attack that has claimed the lives of innocent and helpless citizens. They are fond of promising Nigerians that they will bring the perpetrators to book, yet no one has been brought to book, except Kabiru Sokoto whose fate is yet to be concluded despite the life imprisonment passed on him by the Federal High Court, Abuja. President Jonathan promised Nigerians about April 2012 that the Boko Haram sect would be eliminated by June of that year. Unfortunately, it turned out that our President was just bluffing as far as the dreaded sect was concerned. Since then several lives have been lost in the various attacks that greeted the President’s boasting. There was shake-up in the Security Council alright with Sambo Dazuki taking over from General Andrew Azazi. There was a new inspector general of police. Other new officers were appointed; new assignment was given with a view to tackling the insecurity. All to no avail. When the present Chief of Defence Staff, Air Marshall Alex Badeh, assumed office, he, too, vowed to get rid of the Boko Haram sect by April 2014, that is last month. According to him, “The security situation in the north-east must be brought to a stop by April so that we do not have constitutional problems on our hands. If we do our work cohesively, I can tell you, we will finish that thing in no time,” he said. On the contrary, April eventually became the worst period of heavy casualties of helpless Nigerians recorded, even at the FCT, Abuja and the Defence headquarters in Maiduguri. When are we going to move from the habitual passivity stance to a drastic activeness that depicts a responsive government? The modus operandi of the dreaded sect and the speed at which they carry out their attacks undermines the acclaimed military superiority of our security agencies. How could different attacks take place successfully within 72 hours in the same geographical location without being challenged by our security operatives? Yet, the SSS and the JTF always claim they are on top of the situation, even though a handcuffed terrorist suspect was able to disarm our SSS right in their headquarters. Security experts believe that intelligence gathering has been one of the major challenges that have rendered our national security agents impotent. In the same vein, heads of our national security agents are canvassing for support, collective action and collaboration of the poor masses in the bid to tackle insecurity. But who will guarantee the safety of the identity of the poor masses whose protection is not ordinarily even guaranteed by the government? Initially, the insurgents were attacking government facilities. Now that those facilities have been sophisticatedly fortified and our leaders have drawn security agents to and around themselves, what is left for the protection of the vulnerable Nigerians? The rate at which the insurgents are killing helpless Nigerians has shown that the government is been busy protecting itself at the expense of the governed and the suggestion of another tier of policing at the state and local government levels for law and order is being stiffly opposed by the same functionaries and their agents that have ringed themselves with a fortress of police or soldiers. Sadly, while the poor masses are expecting the government to find a lasting solution to the problem on ground, the ruling government is busy trivialising and politicising the woes that are befalling the masses. What a pitiful exhibition of heartlessness! Playing the blame game on the blood of the people. They are guaranteed of executive protection, because they are in charge of the armed forces. But who is protecting the defenseless and helpless Nigerians in those troubled states? For how much longer would they take to stop the shedding of innocent blood? Is Nigeria under siege? • Bakare is of the Department of Mass Communication, University of Lagos.