THE NATION FRIDAY 12TH, 2013

Nigeria’s widest circulating newspaper

Lagos denies plan to seize fire victims’ land NEWS Page 9

•Govt to redesign area, says official

Policemen, soldiers clash in Ibadan NEWS

Page 8

•Guns boom at police station www.thenationonlineng.net

VOL. 8, NO. 2456 FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2013

TR UTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM TRUTH

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CBN recovers N6b from banks for cheated customers

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ENTRAL Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Gover-nor Sanusi Lamido Sanusi has said about N6billion lost to banks by customers has been recovered by the apex bank.

Sanusi spoke yesterday in Abuja at the yearly Isaac Moghalu Foundation (IMOF) Lecture and Symposium, entitled: Women in leadership, the education pipeline.

•Sanusi

From Nduka Chiejina, Asst. Editor

He said the feat was recorded by the CBN’s Director of Consumer Protection, Hajia Umma Aminu Dutse, whom he described as “ruthless and hard working”.

His words: “The director of Consumer Protection has recovered over N6 billion in the last one year for customers that were cheated by banks.

She takes sides with banks’ customers. Even when I plead with her to be gentle with the banks, she is very ruthless.”

Sanusi took a swipe at women at the top of their careers and those with political clout, accusing them of not doing enough for the womenfolk.

He said: “Not many women help other women and this is really a big problem. So, we

need to be careful about just thinking that if you have a group of people in top management level, things will be different.

“Ask the women in power what they do for other women who are voiceless, you may be the Minister of Finance or of Housing, many women cannot understand what we are saying here.”

The CBN helmsman la-

mented the low literacy level of girls in the North, saying in Jigawa State, for example, girls’ completion rate in school is as low as 7.6 per cent.

He explained that out of 100 girls, less than eight complete secondary school, adding that 70.8 per cent of girls in the Northwest between 20 and 29 Continued on page 60

Fear in Presidency as Boko Haram rejects amnesty Govt in battle to salvage peace plan Clark seeks special court for terrorists

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HE Presidency has launched a desperate mission to salvage its shattered amnesty-for-Boko Haram programme.

The fundamentalist sect rejected yesterday the planned clemency for its members, saying it should be the one to pardon the government.

Some prominent Northern elders believed to be close to Boko Haram have been enlisted to prevail on the sect

Surprisingly, the Nigerian government is talking about granting us amnesty. What wrong have we done?

On the contrary, it is we that should —Shekau grant you pardon From Yusuf Alli, Abuja

to embrace peace.

But a rights activist, Comrade Shehu Sani, who once facilitated talks with Boko Haram, said the rejection of

amnesty by the sect should be expected because the Federal Government failed to do its homework well.

Also, a former military governor of Kaduna State, Col.

Without dialogue, we will not know whether they are ready for ceasefire or not. So, we need to create room for them to identify themselves, what —Col. Umar their demands are...

Abubakar Dangiwa Umar, said dialogue with the sect ought to come first before amnesty.

To him, the rejection is not surprising.

After a parley with all service chiefs last week, President Goodluck Jonathan raised a committee to harness the various requests for amnesty for the sect.

The committee was given two weeks to come up with recommendations on the possibility of granting the militants pardon.

But Boko Haram leader Abubakar Shekau said the group has not committed any crime to deserve clemency.

In an audio statement, Shekau said his group had “not committed any wrong to deserve amnesty”.

Continued on page 4

Survivor of attack on policemen regains freedom From Bisi Olaniyi, Yenagoa

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OT all the 12 policemen ambushed in Bayelsa State died, it emerged yesterday.

Lucky Ebebi, 31, a bachelor from Esama, in Bomadi Local Government Area of Delta State, has been freed by the militants.

The charred remains of the 11 other ambushed policemen were retrieved on Tuesday from the creeks by a rescue team.

As at press time last night, the bodies were still at the morgue of the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Yenagoa, the state capital.

Security sources, who pleaded not to be named, said Ebebi met two expatriates - a Greek and an Indonesian - at the camp of the Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta (MEND) in the creek of Azuzuama, Southern Ijaw Local Government Area.

The sources said the hostages were released alongside Ebebi, after payment of the ransom.

It was alleged that one of the freed expatriContinued on page 4

•Former Military Head of State Gen. Muhammadu Buhari flanked by the mother of the late Deputy Governor of Ekiti State, Mama Adetutu Famuagun; and her husband, Chief Festus Famuagun, during a Condolence visit to the family home of the Famuaguns in Ado-Ekiti... yesterday

•P AGE 8 •PA

Buhari, Anyaoku, Shema, Ribadu, others condole with Fayemi

•SPORTS P24 •SOCIETY P25 •BRANDS P29 •POLITICS P43 •AGRIC P14

THE NATION FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2013

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Can Nigeria fe

•Oyo State Governor Abiola Ajimobi (middle) greeting the eldest son of the late former Managing Director of Wema Bank Limited, Chief Samuel Igbayilola Adegbite, Wale (right), at the funeral service for the late banker at St. Peter's Anglican Cathedral, Aremo, Ibadan...yesterday. With him is the governor's wife, Florence .

•Minister of State for Federal Capital Territory(FCT) Oloye Olajumoke Akinjide (left), receiving 2012 Christian Pilgrimage Report from the Chairman ,FCT Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board, Israel Akanji in Abuja ... yesterday.

PHOTO: ABAYOMI FAYESE

• ,Minister of Land, Housing & Urban Development , Amal Pepple cutting the tape to open t the third Aso Housing Exhibition & Conference in Abuja ...yesterday. With her are: Managing Director Aso Saving & Loan , Hassan Usman (left),Managing Director, Federal Housing Authority, (FHA) Terver Gemade, Chairman , Sub- Committee on Low Income Housing , Ministerial Implementation Team delivering in Nigeria , Ezekiel Nya - Etok and Managing Director ,Aso Investment Development Company, Mrs. PHOTO: ABAYOMI FAYESE Isoken Omoh .

By 2050, Nigeria’s population, according to the Population Reference Bureau, is expected to hit 400 million.

REUTERS examines the good, the bad and the ugly of the projected population explosion.

I

N the time it takes to read this article, Nigeria will have added 50 people to its population, or about 11,000 a day. While some see these new consumers feeding an engine of prosperity, others fear they will create a crisis of poverty and unrest.

By 2050, the global Population Reference Bureau (PRB) projects it will be the world’s fourth most populous country, with 400 million people just less than the projected figure for the United States, but with only a tenth of its territory.

While Africa’s most populous nation has long had business leaders salivating over its potentially huge market, especially retailers of fastmoving consumer goods, it is not clear whether it can turn a growing population - already at 170 million into a richer society with widespread higher living standards.

Nigeria is often used by promoters of an “Africa Rising” narrative urging investors to buy into the continent’s potential to reap a “demographic dividend” from an expanding population of young people of working age.

Yet in the waterside slum of Makoko, where 100,000 residents huddle together in homes on stilts that spill right out into the Lagos Lagoon, few feel on the verge of prosperity.

“We’re poor, and not much is changing,” said Benedicta Hunkpe, as she stirred a cauldron of fish stew over smoking charcoal while chil-

dren swept along the water in canoes.

Demographers fear a crisis of poverty and social upheaval could offset gains from the birth of new consumers.

The 3,000 naira ($19) a week that the 55-year-old Hunkpe earns from selling fish helps feed her eight offspring and 10 grandchildren; her house sleeps 40 people at a time.

“The money is never enough,” she said. “I wanted my children to go to school to give them a better life, but I couldn’t afford it.”

Skeptics say services and the environment can’t keep pace with a population rising at 2.4 percent a year, according to U.N. figures. They fear swelling numbers of jobless and uneducated youths threaten the stability of a country already suffering an Islamist uprising in the north and oil theft, piracy and kidnapping by criminal gangs in the south.

“If we keep growing our population at this rate, without also growing our means to sustain it, we are heading towards catastrophe,” says Owoeye Olumide, a demographer at southwest Nigeria’s Bowen University.

“We have to do something very fast ... or we face more poverty and agitation or worse - disease, hunger, war.”

NIGERIA RISING? Few investment funds share this view.

Banks like Renaissance Capital believe

Nigerian teen accused of raping 11-year-old girl NIGERIAN teenager, Opemipo Jaji, 18, accused of raping an 11-year-old girl in a park had attacked another schoolgirl a year before, a court heard yesterday.

Jaji is alleged to have followed the 11-year-old girl as she made her way home from school on a bus.

He followed her and dragged her into Jubilee Park, Enfield, north London, and subjected her to a three-hour rape ordeal in November, last year, the court heard.

Her glove had been stuffed in her mouth and she had been stripped and assaulted.

Rosina Cottage, QC, prosecuting, said the child had caught a bus in Enfield Town along with her friend

A

• Lagos State Commissioner for the Environment Mr. Tunji Bello (middle) addressing reporters at a ministerial press briefing at the Press Centre, Alausa, Ikeja...yesterday. With him are Special Adviser on the Environment Dr. Taofeek Folami (left) and the Commissioner for Information and Strategy Mr. Lateef Ibirogba.

PHOTO: MOSES OMOSEHIN

• President Goodluck Jonathan (right), discussing with the Prime Minister of Poland, Mr. Donald Tusk (left), during a meeting at the Presidential Villa, Abuja...yesterday.

With them is a Polish official.

at 4.30pm.

“She was 11-year-old and was wearing her school uniform,” said Miss Cottage.

“She got on the bus with her friend and they were giggling and chatting.

Also on the bus was a young male, the defendant. He watched her get off the bus and followed her.

“He dragged her into a local park in the dark and raped her. She ran home bleeding and injured. Her blood and DNA were found on his clothes and bag.”

Miss Cottage said the girl had been expected home by 5pm and her parents rang police by 5.30 after she failed to turn up.

The girl appeared at 8pm. ‘She was dishevelled, dirty and panicky.

THE NATION FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2013

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feed its 11,000 babies per day? ‘ “Middlebelt” - a region of central Nigeria populated largely by minority ethnic groups - violence is common among youth gangs, with disputes over scarce land and water.

Dozens have been killed in the past week in Plateau state.

In the Niger Delta, gangs of mostly unemployed armed youths steal tens of thousands of barrels of oil a day from pipelines.

And the biggest threat to Nigeria’s stability - the north’s Islamist insurgency - is driven by its desperate, unemployed youth population, said Mohammed Junaidu, a northern opposition politician and academic, adding that Nigeria had 12 million children of school age who were not in education.

“It’s a combination of failures of governance and the ticking demographic time-bomb,” he said. “They urgently need to pacify these youths or face more instability and terrorism.”

A Standard Bank study last year questioned Nigeria’s potential as a mass consumer market. It showed that in some of the urban centers seen as promising, like Lagos, household incomes are far below the ROOM FOR OPTIMISM? threshold for a The government has for decades retail boom tried to curb population growth

African demographics will spur an economic transformation of the sort Asia has seen.

“Only sub-Saharan Africa is positioned to experience 15-20 percent growth in the crucial 15-24 age range over the coming decades, which will provide the plentiful labor force the world economy will rely on,” the bank said in a 2011 report entitled “The bottom billion becomes the fastest billion”.

This will provide huge opportunities for retailers and the auto industry, for which “demographic data alone suggest Africa will be overtaking China within two generations”.

Nigeria is already a big market for basic goods, like the soap, beer or flour sold

by PZ Cussons (PZC.L), Nigerian Breweries (NB.LG) and Flourmills of Nigeria (FLOURMI.LG).

And some are preparing for the next step up; South African supermarket chain Shoprite (SHPJ.J) has plans for 700 stores in Nigeria, up from only a handful at the moment.

Yet countries that reap the “demographic dividend” usually do so only once population growth starts to slow.

While fertility rates are crashing across Asia and Latin America - mirroring falls in Europe a generation ago - in sub-Saharan Africa they remain high. A 2012 World Bank study put them at five children per woman; in Nigeria, it is 5.6.

The United Nations predicts subSaharan Africa’s population will double by 2045 to 2 billion. Nigeria will account for a fifth of that, and some fear city infrastructure, education and the job market won’t keep up.

“RUNNING TO STAND STILL” Sprawling around a lagoon and the Atlantic coast, Nigeria’s commercial hub of Lagos - a steamy, tropical city of some 21 million people, according to its government - receives hundreds of thousands of new arrivals each year from rural areas.

The city grows by 672,000 people a year, state data shows.

“It’s like we’re running just to stand still,” said Ben Akabueze, the Lagos commissioner for Economic Planning and Budget, a sharply dressed, bespectacled man whose phone trills constantly with demands from state governor Babatunde Fashola.

“You roll out services, then so many more people arrive,” he says.

“Sometimes we can’t quite cope.”

Two thirds of Lagosians live in what are effectively slums with no reliable electricity or water. Most crowd into “face me, face you” accommodation squeezing whole fami-

‘

She was 11-year-old and was wearing her school uniform. She got on the bus with her friend... Also on the bus was a young male.

He watched her get off the bus and... dragged her into a local park in the dark and raped her. She ran home bleeding and injured. Her blood and DNA were found on his clothes and bag •Jaji

‘She had a crop-top bra in her hand and said she had been attacked.’

The girl said her attacker ‘had kept

‘

making fists and cracking his knuckles’.

She later told police that after get-

‘

lies into seven- square meter rooms (75 square feet) sandwiched together along thin corridors.

Noah Semedi, head teacher at one of only two schools serving Makoko’s tens of thousands, is lucky he can read at all.

“My dad has 22 children. I am the last born in the family, so I am the only guy that went to school,” he told Reuters at the wood-hewn school, where 117 children in blue and yellow uniforms huddled around a jetty over the filthy water of the lagoon.

Residents of such areas are a long way from consumerism.

The 7UP (7UP.LG) that Owolala Elijah, 27, a fisherman, slurps at a village meeting was paid for by the local chief - he is rarely able to afford branded fizzy drinks himself, he says.

A Standard Bank study last year questioned Nigeria’s potential as a mass consumer market. It showed that in some of the urban centers seen as promising, like Lagos, household incomes are far below the threshold for a retail boom.

It found 93 percent of Lagos households were in the poorest category, with monthly income lower than $390, compared with only 38 percent in Johannesburg.

Only retailers targeting “the bot-

tom of the pyramid”, like brewers or Swiss food group Nestle (NESN.VX), can tap such people, said Standard Bank’s head of equity product, Matthew Pearson. “(Retailers) ... down in South Africa were most surprised,” said Pearson. “Received wisdom was that the middle class in Nigeria was a lot bigger than it actually is.”

That suggests retailers like highend South African supermarket Woolworths (WHLJ.J), which set up in Nigeria in 2011, face a small market for some time. Strategies targeting middle-income groups that worked in places like India and South Africa may not yet work so well for Nigeria, Pearson said.

Official figures say absolute poverty rose to 60 percent last year, from 54.7 percent in 2004, worsened by rapid population growth. Some 100 million Nigerians live in poverty.

“With that kind of pressure of population, the way Nigeria has worked ... would be very difficult to repeat over the next 20 years without some big catastrophe happening,” said Antony Goldman, head of Nigeria-focused PM Consulting.

The PRF says nearly half of Nigerians are under 15, and in the

ting off the bus, she noticed a male walking in front and then behind her. She had tried to avoid him because she felt something was not right.

In the park, he kept asking for her phone - which she did not have her Oyster travel card and her keys.

At one point, he had threatened to stab her if she moved and caught her when she tried to run away.

He had also threatened to film her and send copies to children at her school, she said.

The girl ran home dishevelled and bleeding and underwent an operation for her injuries.

Jaji, of Edmonton, north London, denies rape and says he was not the attacker, although he was on the same bus.

He claims her DNA on his bag, trainer shoe and the waistband of his boxer shorts was from when he went into the park later that evening, the Old Bailey heard.

But Rosina Cottage, QC, prosecuting, said it was ‘not a coincidence’ that in 2011, Jaji pleaded

guilty to sexually assaulting and robbing another girl dressed in her school uniform.

Miss Cottage said a tie had been placed in her mouth, her clothes had been removed and she was robbed of her telephone and sexually assaulted.

She added: ‘He had an interest in pre-pubescent girls and sexual acts with pre-pubescent girls.’

Blood belonging to Jaji’s victim was found on his trainers and Adidas bag and provided a one-ina-billion DNA match, the court heard later.

Further DNA from the girl was also found inside the waistband of his boxer shorts, while his fingerprints were discovered on the girl’s Oyster card wallet.

Jaji initially claimed the blood was from an accident and work. But he then changed his story and now says he went to Jubilee Park to ‘think about his music’.

‘He says he must have picked up the traces of her DNA from the grass,’ said Ms Cottage. ‘The pros-

DANGERS OF YOUTH

through family planning, but struggles to influence a poorly educated population, many living in remote rural areas, that values having many children, officials say.

“Nigeria needs an attitudinal change,” says John Adegbite, executive director of NGO the Planned Parenthood Federation of Nigeria, adding that only around 10 percent use contraceptives.

Yet those who take a bullish view of Nigeria’s economic future argue that its growth can still eventually lift large sections of society out of extreme poverty.

Charles Robertson at Renaissance Capital says over a third of children go to secondary school, compared with just 7 percent in 1975. That is now similar to India 20 years ago, he says.

He also thinks that, as Nigeria and Africa become more prosperous, populations will naturally rise more slowly.

“As African countries get richer, birth rates will drop dramatically,” he said - as has happened in India and Egypt. As a result, he says, U.N. projections for Nigeria’s population by 2050 will be “out by tens of millions”.

For demographers like Olumide, that is too complacent.

“Without a change of reproductive behavior, I can’t see how we can slow population growth,” he said. “We are just loading more people onto the table. Very soon, it’s going to collapse.”

ecution say this is a desperate attempt to find any explanation.’

The park was cordoned off for sniffer dog searches very shortly after the girl reported she had been attacked, she added. ‘He brutally terrified and raped her,’ said Ms Cottage.‘ Jaji had attended an appointment with the probation service just 90 minutes before the attack, the court has heard.

Jaji was arrested a few days later after CCTV was viewed, and his bedroom searched. A book was found about a little girl being sexually assaulted, ads for child care vacancies and a picture of a little girl in Australia marked FC - a possible reference to Facebook.

There was also an article about missing April Jones ‘the little girl who was taken,’ said Miss Cottage.

Miss Cottage outlined the attack on the schoolgirl in the park.

The trial was adjourned to tomorrow.

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THE NATION FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2013

NEWS MEND threatens more attacks in Niger Delta

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HE Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta (MEND) has vowed to carry out more attacks.

MEND’s spokesman, Jomo Gbomo told The Nation last night that its fighters were battle ready.

The militant group said: “Our fighters only engaged them (policemen at Azuzuama) in a shootout and were not involved in the burning of their bodies. There will surely be more strikes, as we have some key strategic tar-

From Bisi Olaniyi, Yenagoa

gets on our list.”

It was learnt that the militants, who held hostage Lucky Ebebi, one of the 12 policemen ambushed last Friday on Bayelsa waters, actually demanded for N5 million ransom from the State Police Command, before it reluctantly accepted N1 million.

The driver of the boat in which the policemen were attacked has gone into hiding to avoid being killed by militants

Insecurity : IBB rallies support for Fed Govt •The Lagos Centre for Rural Development (CERUD) Complex, Epe, Lagos during the Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babatunde Fashola SAN inspection visit on Thursday, April 11, 2013. INSET: Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babatunde Fashola SAN (middle), Commissioner for Rural Development, Hon. Cornelius Ojelabi (right) and the Special Adviser on Rural to the Governor, Mr. Babatunde Hunpe (left).

No longer business as usual, ACN tells Presidency

By Precious Igbonwelundu

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HE Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) had a piece of advice for the Federal Government yesterday.

It asked Dr. Goodluck Jonathan to step down if it ran out of ideas on how to steer the shipe of the state.

The party said the opposition would no longer spoonfeed the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on how to successfully run a government.

“If the Jonathan administration is overwhelmed by the demands of running the country, it should indicate so and step down,” the ACN said in a statement by its spokesman, Alhaji Lai Mohammed.

He was reacting to a statement credited to a presidential aide, Dr. Doyin Okupe, who accused the opposition of only criticising without proffering solutions to the problems plaguing the country.

Mohammed disagreed with the presidential aide and said his party went beyond its brief to offer suggestions on many knotty issues.

The statement reads: “If the PDP-led Federal Government is expecting the opposition to waste its time and energy in

helping it to run the government, then it is another clear indication that those at the helm neither prepared for the huge responsibility placed upon them by being voted into office, nor learnt fast enough on the job. Little wonder the country’s development has been in reverse gear since 1999.”

The ACN said its responsibility as the leading opposition party has always been guided by the highest ideals of democratic principles and the best practices of democratic opposition in the world.

It said: “In speaking truth to power in Nigeria, on many occasions we have turned ‘non-issues’ which are critical for democracy, liberty and justice into issues; we have, through our media interventions, created the possibilities of greater participation by Nigerians in the governance of the country, while canvassing for greater transparency and accountability in the affairs of government and public institutions. We are glad Nigerians appreciate this and have constantly told us so.

“Because we believe in constructive criticism, we have even gone beyond our brief to

offer suggestions. Any close perusal of our regular interventions, dating back to the Obasanjo presidency will realise that we have proffered solutions to oil militancy, in the Niger Delta and Boko Haram violence.

“We suggested ways to wean the country off fuel subsidy through local refining of crude oil instead of making Nigerians to bear the brunt of a corrupt system; pointed out what areas of the economy needed more government attention to enhance socio-economic development and alerted the government to the dwindling fortunes of the oil sector due to low investment and the emerging dangers of shale oil discovery in the US (United States) and elsewhere.

“But we have since realised that this Federal Government is not in power to improve the lives of the citizens but to enrich the few members of its clique and feather its own nest.

“That is why we are gearing up to take over the mantle of leadership at the centre through the support of Nigerians, who are totally fed up with a party (PDP) that has failed to make their lives better since assuming office in

1999.”

ACN also responded to the statement that it was misleading Nigerians be alleging that PDP members are being armed with the Subsidy Reinvestment Programme (SURE-P) funds in preparation for the 2015 elections.

The party said the Presidency got it all wrong.

It said: “Lest the Presidency and the PDP muddle the waters, what we have said is that after the SURE-P funds have been shared among the three tiers of government, the federal converts its own share into slush funds which are then given to persons who are neither elected nor recognised by law to ferret into the pockets of PDP members.

“We went ahead to list the names of those who have been appointed to coordinate the sharing of the funds, and noted that they are the same as President Jonathan’s campaign coordinators in the states - and no one has been able to fault us!”

The party said it was appalled by the increasing resort to the use of street language by presidential aides when responding to the criticism of the Continued on page 60

F

ORMER military President General Ibrahim Babangida has urged Nigerians to join hands with the Federal Government to tackle the security challenges facing the country.

Speaking with reporters in his Minna, Niger State country home, yesterday, Babangida said Nigerians should not abidicate the role of tackling the security challenges to government. Rather, all hands must be on deck to finding solution to the problem. ‘’If we all come together, elite, the media, the ordinary people and the government by taking a common stand just as the people of Azare in Bauchi did to tackle their security chal-

From Jide Orintunsin, Minna

lenges, insecurity will be brought to its bearest minimum,” the former president said, adding:. ‘’The problem did not start in one day but it was a gradual thing before it came to this level , owing to our negligence by the government, elite and the people but I cannot blame anyone..

“Some 20 years ago, we did not have this problem. What was the state of things then?

What have we forgotten that we have not done that led to the present challenges, this what we have look at. ‘’It is something that everyContinued on page 60

Survivor regains freedom Continued from page 1

ates later died as a result of the trauma he suffered at MEND’s camp.

The source revealed that the policeman and expatriates were held at one of the numerous and highly-fortified camps of MEND in the creeks of Bayelsa.

At the emergency ward of the FMC where Ebebi was treated, one of the health personnel on duty, who pleaded for anonymity, confirmed that the freed policeman was brought into the hospital.

Police spokesman Alex Akhigbe, who confirmed the development in a telephone interview at 6:34pm yesterday, insisted that no ransom was

paid.

Akhigbe said: “The policeman who was held hostage by the militants has been released.

He sustained gunshot injuries, but he is now in a stable condition.

“He was released through negotiations, prayers, contacts.

We did not pay any ransom before he was set free.

“We do not have that kind of money. Where do you expect the Bayelsa Police Command to get N1 million to pay to militants as ransom?

“The policeman met two civilians at the militants’ camp.

The families of the expatriates were, as at Wednesday, disContinued on page 60

Fear in Presidency as Boko Haram rejects amnesty Continued from page 1

“Surprisingly, the Nigerian government is talking about granting us amnesty. What wrong have we done? On the contrary, it is we that should grant you pardon,” Shekau was quoted as saying by AFP. The rejection was made in an audio recording in Hausa language, which was distributed by email in a manner consistent with the previous messages released by Boko Haram.

The voice was said to be similar to that of previous Shekau statements.

The group says its members are fighting to create an Islamic state in the North where churches and many public places have been bombed.

More than 1000 people have been killed.

According to the statement, Shekau said it was the government that was committing atrocities against muslims.

At the forefront of the clamour for pardon for the sect are the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar, the Alhaji

Clark seeks special courts for terrorists, sponsors

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HE country seems to be divided on the issue of amnesty for the dreaded terrorist group, the Boko Haram.

President Goodluck Jonathan last week set up a committee to look into the idea, following widespread calls for amnesty for the group by well meaning Nigerians as a way to stop the senseless killings in the northern part of the country.

But a group, Congress for Equality and Change (CEC) yesterday in Abuja asked for the establishment of special courts to prosecute Boko Haram suspects and their sponsors.

This, the group argued, would serve as a deterrent to others.

The group’s position was contained in a communique signed by its National Maitama Sule-led Northern Elders’s Forum (NEF) and eminent Nigerians.

They include Action Congress of Nigeria (CAN) National Learder Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, who backed the idea with

From Vincent Ikuomola, Abuja

Leader and First Republic Minister of Information, Chief Edwin Clark, and its National Chairman, former Senate President Ebute Ameh after an emergency meeting.

Over 40 politicians across the country attended the meeting, which was primarily to review contemporary national issues.

The group viewed the activities of the Boko Haram sect as being detrimental to national development, and so hoped that the amnesty programme being considered ”does not constitute an incentive for unpatriotic elements or groups to cash on to perpetuate criminality and seek refuge in amnesty”.

The group said: ”Amnesty (for Boko Haram) should not be left in the realm

a condition that those with blood on their hands should face justice and the candidate of the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) in the 2011 presidential election, Gen. Muhammadu Buhari.

of speculation and or ambiguity but rather, deliberate steps should be taken to ensure that it does not constitute an incentive for unpatriotic elements or groups to cash on to perpetuate criminality and seek refuge in amnesty.

“There should be a wider stakeholders’ consultation in arriving at the modalities expected to articulate the necessary preconditions to grant amnesty.

Special courts should be established for the speedy prosecution of terrorists to serve as a deterrent to others.

“We call on security agencies to ensure the speedy identification, arrest and prosecution of the sponsors of these acts of terrorism. We also call on the National Assembly to hasten the passage of Anti-Terrorism Bill.”

Gen. Buhari urged Nigerians to support amnesty if it will bring peace.

The violence continued yesterday; with unknown gunmen killing four policemen in Babangida, headquarters of Tar-

muwa Local Government Area of Yobe State.

The killings, which took place near the slain officers’ station, was confirmed by the State Police Commissioner Sanusi RuContinued on page 60

•Clark

ADVERT HOTLINES: 08023006969, 08052592524 NEWSROOM: LAGOS – 01-8962807, ABUJA – 07028105302 COMPLAINTS: 01-8930678

THE NATION FRIDAY, APRIL 12 , 2013

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Ex-UBEC Secretary, Rep sue magazine for N100b damages

FORMER Executive Secretary of the Uni versal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), Dr. Ahmed Mohammed Modibbo and a member of the House of Representatives, Hajiya Aishatu Dahiru Mohammed, have sued PowerSteering Magazine for libel.

The second defendant is Oga Tom Uhia They are demanding N100billion damages against the publisher of the magazine at the High Court of Justice of the Federal Capital Territory.

The magazine accused Modibbo of embezzling N80billion while in office as the Chief Executive Officer of the National Teachers Institute (NTI) and the Executive Secretary of UBEC. The publication alleged that the member of the House, who is Modibbo’s wife, was implicated in an admission scandal at the Ahmadu Bello University, which she never attended.

According to the writ, Hajiya Aishatu Dahiru Ahmed only attended the Federal Polytechnic Mubi in Adamawa State where she comes from.

In the action filed by Ben A Anachebe (SAN), Ocholi James (SAN) and S.I. Ameh (SAN), the plaintiffs are seeking the following reliefs: “A declaration that the words published by the defendants about the plaintiffs in the PowerSteering Magazine of April 2013 falsely and maliciously written to the public is defamatory of the persons of the plaintiffs.

“The sum of N100billion only to the plaintiffs as aggravated and exemplary damages against the defendants jointly and severally for libel, false and malicious publication by the defendants against the plaintiffs.

“A mandatory order compelling the defendants to publish a retraction of the libelous publication in five of their monthly editions in conspicuous pages as a libelous article for five consecutive months and a written apology to the plaintiffs for the damage caused them.

“An order of perpetual injunction restraining the

From Yusuf Alli, Managing Editor, Northern Operation

defendants, their agents, servants or privies from publishing or further publishing or caused to be published any other defamatory words about the plaintiffs to any person or persons.”

In a statement of claim in support of the action, the plaintiffs averred as follows: “The 1st plaintiff is the immediate past Executive Secretary of Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) whose five years tenure expired sometime 2012. A brief profile of the person of the 1st Plaintiff shall be relied upon at trial. Same is accordingly pleaded “The 2nd Plaintiff biodata, credentials and certificates obtained in the cause of her trainings before her election to the House of Representatives is hereby pleaded. And shall lead evidence to establish that she is a woman of integrity, good background, discipline, industrious, hard working, a mother and a good wife.

“The 1st plaintiff, before his appointment as the Executive Secretary of the Universal Basic Education Commission in 2007, was also the

Chief Executive of the National Teachers Institute where he was re-appointed his first tenure in 2003 as a result of his meritorious service that led to the rapid growth of the agency.

“The 1st plaintiff, before his appointment as the Chief Executive Officer of the National Teachers Institute, was an itinerary lecturer at the Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) Zaria.

“The 1st plaintiff was never indicted for any wrongdoing by any panel set up in ABU; neither was he ever suspended from being a lecturer at Ahmadu Bello University.

“The 1st plaintiff was a lecturer at the Ahmadu Bello University before he was recommended and eventually appointed to head the National Teachers Institute in year 2000 based on proven competence and meritorious services as a lecturer in ABU. “The 1st plaintiff was not a member of any sex-for-admission syndicate while serving in ABU as a History lecturer.

“The 1st plaintiff is a man of proven integrity and a stout Moslem who has the fear of God at the back of his mind and does not condone nor indulge in corruption or

embezzlement of public funds.

“The 2nd plaintiff is a member of the House of Representatives from Adamawa State, the home state of the 1st plaintiff.

“The 2nd plaintiff is the wife of the 1st plaintiff and are still living together as husband and wife.

“The 2nd plaintiff was never a student of the Ahmadu Bello University all her life but only attended the Federal Polytechnic Mubi in Adamawa State where she comes from.

“The plaintiffs state that they have never been lovers prior to their coming together as husband and wife.

“The 2nd plaintiff has never been employed in any organisation all her life but has been working as a contractor prior to her involvement in politics that saw her to the House of Representatives.

“The 2nd plaintiffs, being a contractor, had been securing contracts from the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) for years before the appointment of the 1st plaintiff as the Executive Secretary of the Commission.

“The 2nd plaintiff always got her contracts from the

Universal Basic Education Commission after competitive biddings and due process, unlike the Intermarkets case where the Lebanese wanted the second phase of a contract without due process and sued UBEC under Modibbo when he advertised for bidding–in line with Public Procurement Act, 2007.

“The 1st plaintiff has never lobbied or bribed anybody or given money to any government officials so as to confer an undue advantage on himself for appointment into any lucrative position.

“The plaintiffs state that the defendants jointly, maliciously and recklessly published in the Power Steering Magazine of April, 2013 ISSN: 2006-523X at the Cover Page with a loud screaming headline MODIBBO STOLE N80B IN TWELVE YEARS? and exhibited the Plaintiffs most recent picture, showing clearly the person being referred to in the article. The Magazine under reference is hereby pleaded. At page 24 to page 29 the damaging article which the writers and publishers knew to be false were printed out with the picture of Dr. Modibbo and Prof. Mahmood Yakubu.”

No date has been fixed for the hearing.

•Director-General, Legal Aid Council of Nigeria (LACN), Mrs Joy Bob-Manuel (right) speaking at the World Media Interactive Forum in Kaduna...yesterday. With her are LACN’S Director, Mrs Joanna Kadiya and Secretary-General, Civil Rights Congress, Comrade Nasir Abbas

Ige’s murder: Group petitions NASS, IGP, AGF for fresh probe

Etisalat to raise $500million for expansion

By Lucas Ajanaku

E

TISALAT Nigeria has said it plans to raise $500 million (about N78.8billion) from local banks to expand its network this year, its Chief Commercial Officer Wael Ammar, said yesterday.

Ammar said the facility will enable the mobile phone carrier grow its market share which is 40 per cent owned by its parent company, to 17 per cent this year.

It aimed to add four million subscribers to its existing 15 million this year, he said.

The company currently has a mobile market share of 15 per cent, behind MT’s 43 per cent and Globacom’s 22 per cent.

Airtel, a subsidiary of India’s Bharti Airtel, has a 20 percent share.

Ammar also said he expected average revenues for voice traffic across the industry to continue to decline to around $5 per user over the next 3-5 years, from around $67 per user currently. Average revenue per user or ARPU was $10 per user in 2008, he said.

“We are investing $500 million this year to expand our network and services to Nigerian consumers,” Ammar said, adding that Etisalat aims to increase its existing 3,000 cell sites by an undisclosed number,” he said at the Reuters Africa Investment Summit.

Ammar said Etisalat entered Nigeria’s fast growing market as a start-up operation with a $2 billion investment seven years ago, facing more established rivals like South Africa’s MTN and Globacom, owned by billionaire tycoon Mike Adenuga.

Ammar said Etisalat would be able to grow its subscriber base without having to poach large numbers of customers from rivals because some 40 per cent of Nigerians — tens of millions of people — still did not own a phone.

“We see the second wave of growth coming from the youth segment. It is a huge segment that will ... turn into future consumers and the growth will happen across multiple years,” he said.

The International Telecommunications Union (ITU) forecasts Nigeria to have 120 million mobile subscribers by end 2013, out of a population of 170 million. The country currently has a subscriber base that is slightly above 113 million.

•Demands fresh probe of death of Marshal, Afolabi too •Wants Halliburton case revisited

B

ARELY 12 years after the assassination of a former Attorney-General of the Federation, Chief Bola Ige, a new group has demanded a fresh, independent probe into the incident The Leadership Rescue Initiative is also seeking a revisit of the death of a former Minister of Internal Affairs, Chief S.M. Afolabi and ex- National ViceChairman of the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP), Chief Harry Marshal.

It made the demand in a petition to the President of the Senate, Chief David Mark, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Alhaji Aminu Tambuwal,

From Yusuf Alli, Managing Editor, Northern Operation

the Attorney-General of the Federation, Mr. Mohammed Bello Adoke (SAN) and the Inspector-General of Police, Alhaji M.D. Abubakar.

In the petition, signed by its Chairman, Mr. Richard Odusanya, the group admitted in writing to have been privy to some clues to the murder of Ige and the death of Afolabi.

The petition indicated that the chairman of the group ran errands for senior government officials between 1999 and 2003.

It said while the murder of Ige and Marshal had simi-

lar patterns, the government ought to look into the possibility that Afolabi may have been poisoned.

The petitioners urged “transparent revisit of the following national leadership abuse/calamities”, promising to be readily available to provide unassailable facts to assist in sincere and conclusive state investigations; viz: (a) corrupt enrichment by proxy (b) high-profile assassinations and (c) criminal imposition of personal will on the nation.”

“Chief Bola Ige of blessed memory had uncompromising resolve to work to sustain his party’s

(AD) control of the Southwest.

“It must be emphasised that the charade and drama of the past are national disgrace, such as when the then Inspector-General Sunday Ehindero paraded people who disgraced him in attempt to label them Ige killers.

“Late Chief Harry Marshal was a notable opposition ANPP leader…but he died.

“We need to know as a nation whether Chief SM Afolabi was poisoned in detention or he died of natural cause. A former minister of Internal Affairs, he was detained over a US$7million National ID Card bribe. The

government detained everybody but the actual culprit.”

Also, the group asked the government to look into how $6million of the $180million Halliburton scandal was shared by some top officials in the Presidency during the Obasanjo administration.

It claimed that its demand followed the alleged revelation by a suspect that he “admitted to the police that he collected only $6million but refused to implicate” anybody.

The petition added: “Without prejudice to any relevant national institution that may wish to act by virtue of constitutional provi-

•The late Ige

sions or responsibilities, we humbly and fervently pray that Your Excellency graciously oblige the setting up of an Ad Hoc Committee to scrutinise these issues exhaustively in the interest of the nation.”

THE NATION FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2013

6

CITYBEATS

NAFDAC smashes fake drug syndicate

By Oyeyemi Gbenga-Mustapha and Wale Adepoju

THE end of the road have come for a suspected syndicate which specialised in cloning several fastmoving pharmaceutical products including locally manufactured anti malaria and pain-relieving medicines.

They were smashed in Lagos by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC).

The syndicate is said to have perfected its cloning act in China and later imported the drugs into the country.

A suspected member of the syndicate, Mr. Maduabuchi Abuzu, who has a shop at 21 Ashogbon Street, Idumota, and who had been on NAFDAC's watch list of fake drug importers for about two years, has been arrested.

The agency said it had begun investigations to unravel his Chinabased partners.

The agency's Director of Enforcement, Mr. Garba Macdonald said Abuzu was arrested in his home, 9, Alhaja Hassana Street, Orile Iganmu, with fake drugs worth over N20 million.

Macdonald said: "The arrest of Abuzu was a major breakthrough in the fight to stem the activities of the syndicate who had in the last two years brought into the country fake drugs with his partners in China".

He revealed that the suspect had confessed to importing the drugs from China through his contacts and intelligence reports, adding that the suspect used his house as a warehouse where the cloned drugs were stored.

Meanwhile, the suspect is said to be assisting the agency in its investigations to get to the root of the matter as the fake drugs had been evacuated from his house sampled against him for laboratory analysis.

Shell pensioners' chair bags title ALL roads lead to the palace of Oba Sylvester Ajibola Akinniyi, Ajagungbade 1, the Olu of Ipaja, a Lagos suburb, on April 18, for the 12th coronation anniversary of the monarch. Indigenes of the community who have distinguished themselves in their various fields of endeavour will be honoured with chieftaincy titles.

Prominent among the prospective recipients is the 66-year-old Chairman, Ipaja Community Welfare Association (ICWA), Chief Femi Olowolagba, who will bag the title, Atunluse of Ipajaland. Olowolagba, who retired from Shell Petroleum Company in 1999 as Senior Human Resources Officer, last year, bagged the title, Ba-Meto of Ayobo land, a neighbouring community.

Olowolagba, an indigene of Ajade Village, Owuye in the Obafemi Owode Local Government Area of Ogun State, The Nation learnt, has contributed immensely to the socioeconomic development of Ipaja.

He is currently the vice-chairman of the Ayobo-Ipaja Local Council Development Area (LCDA); chairman, Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC); chairman, Parents Forum, Samuel Adegboyega University, Edo State, and President of the Shell Pensioners Association.

CITYBEATS LINE: 07059022999

'Policemen' shoot motorist dead in Lagos

•We'll fish out the killers, says police chief

A

motorist was shot dead in Lagos yesterday by some men on Police uniform.

The incident occurred about 9a.m, around Daleko Bridge, Iyana-Isolo, a Lagos suburb.

Passersby and onlookers ran for cover as gun shots rang out.

When the dust settled, the motorist, who reportedly had an argument with the uniformed man, lay dead in a pool of his own blood.

He was said to be driving a Toyota Highlander Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) before he was killed.

An eye witness who simply identified himself as Kolade, said: “Like everyone around, I was scared stiff seeing some men in police uniforms rain bullets on an innocent man.

Jude Isiguzo and Ebele Boniface

The man's killers were in police uniforms. We could only run for cover.

“There was stampede in the area.

Passersby and traders were running helter-skelter to avoid being hit by stray bullets.”

Many believe that the assailants might be policemen chasing robbery suspects. But after the motorist was killed, residents of the area believed that they might be hired assassins or robbers.

The state police spokesperson, Ngozi Braide, a Deputy Superintendent (DSP), said last night that the Commander, Area 'D', Mushin, received a distress call that there was shooting around Daleko Bridge, Mushin, adding that some policemen were immediately dispatched to the area. On arrival, according to her, the gunmen had disappeared.

Following enquiry, eye-witnesses told men of the Area 'D' that the

• Manko

gunmen who came in police uniforms operated in a commercial bus. The victim, Mr. Santos Korie,

Court upholds Lagos council chair's election

I

T was jubilation at the Local Government Election Appeal Tribunal sitting at the Lagos State High Court, Igbosere, yesterday.

The court declared Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) candidate, Dr Augustine Arogun winner of the Agbado-Okeodo chairmanship election held on October 22, 2011.

It set aside the November 22, last year judgment of the Election Petition Tribunal (EPT), which held that Otunba Busari Akande of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) won the poll.

The tribunal said the respondents had no one to blame but themselves.

The court was filled to the brim with ACN and PDP supporters. Joyous shouts of victory rang out following the verdict.

Many, including old men and women, were on their feet in the court for shortage of seats. Some sat on the floor. Policemen eventually asked some of them to move outside.

The Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC) declared Arogun winner at the end of voting, but Akande challenged the victory at the EPT (lower tribunal) and won.

The EPT, led by Justice Ade Owobiyi (rtd), voided the Certificate of Return which LASIEC issued the ACN candidate, holding that Akande polled the highest number of valid votes in the election. Dissatisfied with the decision, Arogun and LASIEC appealed.

•Arogun

By Joseph Jibueze

In a unanimous decision, the fiveman Appeal Tribunal, led by Justice Opeyemi Oke, the third most senior judge in the Lagos State judiciary, described the EPT's verdict as an error.

A member of the panel, Justice Kazeem Alogba, who read the lead judgment, said proceedings at the lower tribunal, were a nullity.

He said the hearing and determination of the petition at the EPT went beyond the 30-day limit provided under Section 14 (1) of the Local Government Election Tribunal Law. Justice Alogba held that it was “miscarriage” of justice for the tribunal to deliver judgment when the respon-

dent did not make any application for extension of time.

He said the petitioners (Akande and PDP) were "not entitled to complain about any misdirection by the lower tribunal."

He noted that Section 14(1) of the law made it mandatory for petitions to be heard within 30 days.

Such provision, he added, could not be waved aside without an application for extension of time.

"The lower tribunal ought to have observed that its proceedings lasted more than 30 days and ought to have asked parties to address it (tribunal) on the issue since there was no application for extension of time before it to regularise the proceedings.

"Sentiments should not be introduced into law especially when the jurisdiction of court is involved. The judgment of the tribunal is set aside and the appeal allowed,'' he said.

At the hearing of the appeal, LASIEC's lawyer Mr Oladapo Akinosun and Arogun's counsel, Mr Kunle Adegoke argued that the EPT lacked jurisdiction to deliver the judgment.

Akinosun said the law stipulated that a petition must be heard and dispensed with within 30 days, unless the petitioner filled a motion in writing seeking an extension of time.

"The issue of timing must be strictly adhered to," Akinosun said, adding that the petitioner did not obtain such

extension.

Jurisdiction, he said, was a creation of statute and could not be conferred by the court, which he noted the EPT tried to do even when it did not receive any express application for time extension.

On the issue of fair hearing which the PDP raised, Akinosun said it was only applicable when a petition is still alive.

"In this case, there was no petition since there was no application for extension of time when the 30 days lapsed. We urge your Lordships to dismiss the judgment of the EPT and uphold our appeal. The judgment of the lower tribunal was entered in error and should be set aside," the lawyer added.

ACN's lawyer Mohammed Ajibola (SAN) also urged the court to uphold the appeal.

But Counsel for the PDP and Akande Otunba Kunle Kalejaiye (SAN) said the respondents filed a preliminary objection on the competence of the appeal.

Urging the court to dismiss it, he said Section 36 of the 1999 Constitution superseded any law, such as Section 14 (1) of the Local Government Election Tribunal Law, which imposes time limit on determination of election petitions.

"The intention of the makers of the law is to provide an avenue for ventilation of election grievances. Therefore, any legislation that curbs the exercise of judicial powers would be null pursuant to Section 36 of the Constitution. We urge your lordships in the circumstances to dismiss the appeal and uphold the decision of the lower tribunal," Kalejaiye said.

Police warn abandoned vehicles’ owners

A

Oyo council holds auction PROSPECTIVE participants in the auction sales billed to be held at the Kajola Local Government, Okeho, Oyo State, have been asked to turn up on April 30.

The Chairman, Transition Committee of the council, Hon. Tirimisiyu Adesola, in a statement, said inspection of the items slated for disposal would be carried out that day.

He promised to attend to all enquiries pertaining to the exercise.

a foreigner, was said to have died on his way to the hospital.

“It was not immediately ascertained whether the gunmen were hired killers in police uniform or genuine police officers.”

The victim's vehicle, it was learnt yesterday, was parked at the Daleko Police Station; the body has been deposited in a morgue.

There were speculations last night that seven persons had been arrested in connection with the incident. They are reportedly being detained at the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) in Ikeja.

Police Commissioner Umar Manko is said to have ordered that the gunmen be fished out since they are suspected to be policemen.

Of recent, gunmen operating in military and police uniforms have been involved in such violent crimes.

Manko appealed to the public, especially the victim's family, to remain calm as the gunmen would be brought to book.

• L-R: Commissioner for Special Duty, Lagos State, Dr. Wale Hammed; Head of Service, Mr. Adesegun Ogunlewe; Permanent Secretary, Ministry for Special Duties, Dr Aderemi Desalu and Director-General, Lagos State Safety Commission, Mrs Dominga Odebunmi, during the flag-off of safety signage at Public Service Conference Hall, the Secretariat Ikeja.

PHOTO: OLUSEGUN RAPHAEL

HE Lagos and Ogun State Police Commands have warned owners of derelict vehicles parked at Adatan, Ijebu-Igbo, Ilupeju, Ikenne, Owode, Iporin and Ijede divisions to remove them or risk losing them to members of the public through auction in the next two weeks.

The vehicles are: Unregistered Honda car; a Mazda, Lagos commercial bus marked QV968SMK; Toyota Rav4 Jeep, TD 666AAA; Nissan BlueBird, BZ142GGE; Nissan Sarray, XH 499 KWL; Nissan Verneltc bus, XB473 IGB; Mazda 626 car, GE278MUS and Trice motorbikes marked, QC528 KJA and QF551FST. Others include: Hyundia HZ494AAA; Opel Astra, XD 146 JBD, Mitsubushi Lancer, BZ8694SD; Honda Accord, BK468RSH; Mazda car, XY871FKJ; Toyota car, BK18AKD; Honda Accord car, FY981EKY; BMW, FU119EKY; Mitsubishi, FC59APP; 911 Lorry, XD847 JJJ; Mazda car, CW410MUS, and Aveolt, BW890AGL. Also to be removed from Ijebu-Igbo and Ikenne police stations include 11 motocycles. Some of them are marked, QV646LSD, OG7983BA, OG8895B, and QE860BDJ.

THE NATION FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2013

7

C ITYBEATS DFID lists gains of partnership with Lagos

CITYBEATS LINE: 07059022999

T

HE United Kingdom (UK) Department For International Development (DFID) has said that its partnership had led to fiscal sustainability, timeliness of budget planning, execution, improved service delivery and best practices in procurement.

Its Regional Coordinator (Southwest, Lagos), Dr Sina Fagbenro-Byron, said apart from Lagos, its programme, State Partnership for Accountability, Responsiveness and Capability (SPARC) had facilitated public accounting reforms in Jigawa, Kano and Enugu States for the past three years.

By such partnerships, he said over 33million pounds had been retrieved from dormant government bank accounts

L

AMINATING and binding machines, soap-making chemicals, hairdressing equipment and photo printers, among other tools, have been donated to spouses and dependants of Armed Forces personnel in Lagos.

The empowerment exercise was a follow-up to the free entrepreneurial training offered to over 400 beneficiaries last December under the Skills Acquisition Programme for Spouses and Dependants of Armed Forces Personnel.

Sponsored by the Defence Headquarters, the scheme was initiated to achieve self-sufficiency and economic empowerment among relations of Armed Forces personnel.

It held at the Army Cantonment, Maryland, Lagos.

The representative of the Chief Defence Staff, Brigadier General Chris Olukolede, said: "We want

By Sunday Oguntola

every relation and dependant of Armed Personnel economically stable and independent so that officers can concentrate on security. We believe with their training backed with these equipment will ensure they make a living and stand on their own. Our dream is to see prosperous barracks across the nation with economically-independent occupants."

The chief trainer, Mrs. Modupe Wigwe, expressed confidence that the tools would push beneficiaries closer to economic prosperity and self-reliance.

Wigwe, also the Chief Executive Officer of Brand Edge Consulting responsible for the training said: "A whole lot of them have been trained but

unable to get take-off capital.

So, the co-operative will allow them this opportunity of a revolving loan scheme."

She hinted that subsequent training would have motivational and attitudinal pep talks "because we realised many of them are just hopeless about life, seriously unmotivated to try anything out."

Dayo Adesina of the photoprocessing class who got a brand new printer appreciated the organisers and sponsors for the gesture, saying: "I have been getting offers to cover occasions and events but not having a printer of my own has been pulling me back.

"With this, I can cover any event and make maximum profits. I have been offered a lifeline and will never remain the same again.."

Disabled employee gets car, wheel-chair

By Kunle Akinrinade

A

FTER many years of hopelessness, succour has come the way of a 44-year-old physically challenged worker of the Federal High Court, Ikoyi, Lagos, Mrs. Mercy Omogbayi.

She is now a proud owner of an automated wheel-chair, a Mitsubishi car and the sum of N250, 000. They were donated to her by Omo-Ilu Foundation, a nongovernmental organisation established by businessman cum politician, Chief Buruji Kashamu.

At the presentation, Kashamu, who was represented by his Media Assistant, Mr. Augustine Oniyokor, said his boss was touched by the plight of the woman during a recent encounter.

"This gesture was borne out of the vision of Omo-Ilu Foundation to help the needy and empower people in the society, irrespective of ethnic or political leanings. My boss had an encounter with the beneficiary a few weeks ago and had promised to assist her with mobility aids. He, however, felt that giving her a car would complement other mobility gadgets.

Amid tears of joy, Mrs. Omogbaiyi, thanked Kashamu for the gesture, saying: "I am short of words because I was not expecting a car and money. During our encounter, I told him that I needed

•Oniyokor ... presenting the car’s keys to Omogbayi

a wheel chair and it was a big surprise that he added a car and money to give me comfort.

"I have been a paraplegic since birth. I came to work this

morning as usual not knowing that a bountiful package was waiting for me. I pray that God will continue to bless him and his children."

and made available for productive uses.

Fagbenro-Byron spoke during the Lagos State Government/SPARC Joint Annual Review held at the state Secretariat, Alausa, Ikeja.

According to him, service delivery had been strengthened "through Government Agenda, Ministerial Service Charters, Mandates, capacity building and the passage of the Public Procurement Law." He, however, noted that Lagos State needed to do more to eradicate poverty and meet the challenges of a mega-city.

The state Head of Service, Adesegun Ogunlewe, said the state civil service had been very critical in implementing the reforms, adding that the Public

Procurement Law, which the partnership with DFID brought, had helped to block leakages and save more money for the state.

SPARC's Deputy National Programme Manager, Mark Walker, said the programme performance scored A-Plus in the mid-term and annual reviews.

Walker said: "Through SPARC, the Nigerian government can access some of the world's top advice on international best practices in areas like policy and strategy development, and financial and public service management, in order to build on impending reforms.

"SPARC is all about support - concentrating on helping Nigerian politicians and government staff access tools and knowledge that they need

'Leaders must care for the less-privileged'

• Olukolede (right) presenting Mrs. Adesina with the soap-making chemicals while Wigwe looks on.

Succour for army officers' dependants

By Joseph Jibueze

T

HE chairman, Association of African Traditional Religion (Nigeria and Overseas) (AATREN), Lagos State, Chief Olusegun Elegushi, has enjoined public office holders in the country to win people's confidence by embarking on programmes and policies that will improve the living condition of the masses, especially the youth.

He told The Nation yesterday that every political office holder, elected or appointed, should have programmes targeted at giving the people the dividends of democracy rather than pursuing personal interests.

Elegushi, the Opemoluwa of Ikate-Elegushi in Eti Osa Council Area, said leaders who ignore the interests of the

people whose mandate they hold are not fit for leadership positions, noting that the primary duty of leaders should be to put smiles on the faces of the masses through provision of basic social amenities and not illegal distribution of illgotten wealth.

He reminded leaders that they would not have attained such positions without the votes of the electorate, stressing that it is better to reward them with good development projects than make them regret voting them into power.

Elegushi also renewed his earlier calls on government to accord traditional religion its deserved recognition by declaring August 20 of every year a public holiday for practitioners to celebrate and offer special prayers to the

• Elegushi

gods, as done for other religions.

He noted with regret that African traditional religion had been relegated to the background by successive governments in the country, a situation he described as "very sad and regrettable."

THE NATION FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2013

8

NEWS

Buhari, Anyaoku, Shema, Ribadu, others condole with Fayemi

F

ORMER Head of State and Presidential candidate of the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) General Muhammad Buhari (rtd.); former Secretary-General of the Commonwealth Chief Emeka Anyaoku; Katsina State Governor Ibrahim Shema and the former Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) Mallam Nuhu Ribadu yesterday visited Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi to condole with him on the death of his deputy, Mrs. Funmilayo Olayinka.

Former Ministers Aliyu Modibbo and Femi FaniKayode; Wife of the Ogun State Governor, Mrs. Olufunso Amosun; the governorship candidate of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) in Ondo State, Mr. Rotimi Akeredolu; Ondo ACN officials and representatives of the Elders Forum of the Christ School, Ado-Ekiti, also visited him.

Anyaoku said the achievements of the administration were as a result of the good working relationship between the governor and his late deputy, as well as other members of the state executive.

Urging Fayemi not to be discouraged by the death of his “co-pilot”, he said: “I am here to commiserate with you on the death of your deputy. This is my first time in this state and I am impressed by the developmental strides, especially the road

Ekiti motorcyclists walk for deputy governor

T

HE Ekiti State Association of Commercial Motorcyclists yesterday held a condolence walk in Ado-Ekiti, the state capital, in honour of the late Deputy Governor, Mrs. Funmilayo Olayinka.

Led by their president, Mr. Ademo OluMartins, about 2,000 members of the association gathered at AUD Primary School, Irona, and walked to Ijigbo Junction before heading for the Governor’s Office, where they were addressed by the Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to the Governor on Social Mobilisation, Mr. Tope Osatoyinbo.

They sang various songs extolling the virtues of the late Mrs. Olayinka, who was described as “a true mother and worthy Ado daughter”. They carried portraits of the deputy governor, which had the inscription “Okada Riders mourn the amiable Deputy Governor, May her soul rest in peace”.

From Sulaiman Salawudeen, Ado-Ekiti

Olu-Martins said the walk was to honour the late deputy governor, “who meant well for the state and committed all she had to its progress”.

He said: “This walk is also to condole with Governor Kayode Fayemi, who lost a cosailor mid-sea. This is not an experience we expected, but it has come our way. We share in his grief and express our support for him.

“The late deputy governor touched our lives personally. She was always ready to receive us and was a wonderful person. Her humility was infectious. But, it is often said that the tall straight tree does not last in the forest. Our only consolation is that her great works would continue to live as a testimony to her life of hardwork, dedication, purpose, rectitude and forthrightness.”

‘

This is my first time in this state and I am impressed by the developmental strides, especially the road network. This shows that you and your late deputy and the rest of your executive are working as a team. Like you said yesterday, she was your co-pilot and that shows she played a very important role in the administration.

From Sulaiman Salawudeen, Ado-Ekiti

network.

“This shows that you and your late deputy and the rest of your executive are working as a team. Like you said yesterday, she was your copilot and that shows she played a very important role in the administration.

“You should not be discouraged by her death, rather you should strive to actualise

the vision to develop the state.

Shema, who was represented by his deputy, Alhaji Abdullahi Faskari, described Olayinka’s death as “a great loss”.

Ribadu said the nation has lost a rare gem.

He said he worked with the late Mrs. Olayinka during the electioneering period and observed her as a hardworking and committed

’

woman.

The former EFCC boss said the late Mrs. Olayinka’s dedication and loyalty would be missed by the progressives.

Akeredolu urged the government to establish more cancer research centres in the country.

Representatives of former Ekiti deputy governors also visited the governor. They are Chiefs Paul Alabi, Abiodun Aluko and

Ogun Assembly okays N16.6b loan for capital projects •Summons police commissioner over ‘shooting’ of students

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HE Ogun State House of Assembly yesterday gave Governor Ibikunle Amosun permission to take a N15 billion loan from Guarantee Trust Bank (GTB) to finance capital projects.

It also empowered the governor to obtain N1.6 billion from ECOBANK to pay the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) counterpart fund.

A few days ago, Amosun sought the Assembly’s approval to obtain the loans.

Yesterday, the Majority Leader, Israel Jolaoso, who moved the motion supporting the request, said the As-

Police, soldiers clash in Ibadan

From Ernest Nwokolo, Abeokuta

sembly had met with the Ministry of Finance on the modalities for repayment.

The lawmakers agreed that the projects for which the loans are being sought would improve the state.

Also yesterday, the Assembly summoned the Commissioner of Police, Ikemefuna Okoye, to appear before it by April 12 in respect of the students’ unrest at the Tai- Solarin College of Education (TASCE), Omu, Ijebu Ode. Also summoned were the Omu Divisional Police Of-

ficer; the Area Commander of Ijebu Area Command; the Commissioner for Education, Mr Segun Odubela; TASCE Provost and the representative of the Student Union Government.

They were summoned following a motion moved by the Chairman of the House Committee on Education, Mr. Adeyinka Mafe.

Mafe, who represents Sagamu 1, said over 190 students of the institution were allegedly arrested by the police and four killed.

He said it was important to find out who authorised the police to fire live bullets at defenceless students.

•Amosun

•The late Mrs. Olayinka

Abiodun Olujimi.

They described the late Mrs. Olayinka as “a woman with a deep sense of responsibility”.

Alabi said: “She served you very well, because you used to speak of her sincerity of purpose and loyalty to you in public. She was very humble. She was not carried away by her office. Her respect for elders was commendable. We pray God consoles you, her family and the entire people of the state.”

Former Oyo State Deputy Governor Iyiola Oladokun; members of the Afenifere Renewal Group (ARG), led

by Mr. Wale Oshun; Ekiti Council of Elders and popular musician Yinka Ayefele also condoled with the governor.

Arepo pipeline vandalism: Court remands four in prison JUSTICE Okon Abang of a Federal High Court, Lagos, yesterday remanded four men charged with oil pipeline vandalism in Ikoyi Prisons.

Wale Onana (43), Owekwere Olusor (22), Yaya Edimini (26) and Chuke Isoju (24) were arraigned on a fourcount charge of stealing, unlawful possession, sale and vandalism of oil pipeline.

They pleaded not guilty.

The prosecutor, Mr. Justin Enang, said the accused, all residents of Ikorodu, committed the offences on January 23.

He said they were apprehended by the police around 5:30am at Arepo in Ogun State for vandalising oil pipelines.

Enang said over 600 litres of petrol, valued N58,200, was recovered from the accused.

No bail application was filed on behalf of the suspects and Justice Abang remanded them in prison custody.

The case was adjourned till June 6.

SOLDIERS yesterday beat up policemen at Mokola Police Station in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.

It was learnt that the soldiers were retaliating an attack on their colleague by the police.

It was gathered that on Wednesday, policemen stopped a soldier for a routine check in front of the station. Sources said the soldier refused to obey them and the police shot him in the ankle.

Yesterday afternoon, eyewitnesses said about 10 soldiers stormed the station and beat up the policemen on duty.

A few minutes after they left for their barracks, a reinforcement of policemen arrived at the station and started shooting into the air. The gunshots caused panic and people scurried for safety. The police cordoned off roads leading to the station, causing a traffic gridlock in the area.

Ex-Oyo commissioner, wife arrested in Ibadan From Bisi Oladele, Ibadan

F

ORMER Oyo State Commissioner for Trade, Investment and Cooperatives Kazeem Adedeji and his wife, Biodun, were yesterday arrested in Ibadan, the state capital, by men of the Special Anti-Fraud Unit, Lagos.

They were picked up at Enterprise Bank, Agodi, Ibadan, where the wife works.

A source close to the couple said the former commissioner was at the bank earlier in the day to see his wife, but he received a distress call from her shortly after he left there.

“Honourable had to make a detour to know what the matter was. On getting to the scene, the police team told him they were sent to Ibadan to arrest the two of them,” the source said.

It was learnt that the bank manager tried in vain to resist the arrest, saying the bank’s leadership needed to be informed of it.

But the police had their way and took the couple to the Iyaganku police station before heading for Lagos around 1:30pm.

Oyo police spokeswoman Mrs. Olabisi Ilobanafor said she was not aware of the incident.

Ondo community residents protest kinsman’s murder

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ESIDENTS of Igbokoda, headquarters of Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State, yesterday protested the murder of Prince Lebi Titiola by those suspected to be the “palace boys” of the town’s traditional ruler, Oba Afolabi Odidiomo.

But the monarch debunked complicity in Lebi’s death.

The peaceful protest came four days after the monarch was granted bail by the police in Abuja.

It was organised by youths from all the ruling houses and various women‘s groups.

From Damisi Ojo, Akure

The protesters, including the parents of the deceased, Mr. and Mrs. Titiola, berated the police for granting Oba Afolabi bail without arraigning him.

The protesters went round the town, carrying placards with inscriptions, such as “Oba Afolabi must go”; “Governor Olusegun Mimiko, please save us from Afolabi’s dictatorship”; “Prosecute Oba Afolabi now”; “We don’t want you again”; “You can’t rule us anymore”; “Stay away from our town” and “Mimiko

please dethrone Oba Afolabi now’’, among others.

Mrs. Titiola wept profusely during the protest and invoked the spirit of the land to fight for her.

Mr. Titiola urged wellmeaning Nigerians and Non-Governmental Organisations (NGO) to come to his aid and ensure that his son’s killers are prosecuted.

He alleged that his son was killed by Oba Afolabi’s “thugs” on March 13 and his body was thrown into the river, where it was recovered three days later.

Two youth leaders, Prin-

cess Arobo Roseline and Mr. Debo Irowaninil, who spoke for the protesters, urged Governor Olusegun Mimiko and the Council of Obas to intervene in the matter.

Warning the monarch against returning to the town, Irowaninil said: “We can no longer tolerate his unwarranted brutality and harassment. The monarch can no longer rule us. Residents of this town are tired of him. We want peace in this land, not the shedding of innocent blood.”

One of the “victims” of Oba Afolabi’s alleged bru-

tality, Mr. Mayowa Iletuwa, a security guard at Igbokoda market and a cousin to the deceased, narrated his ordeal.

Iletuwa said he was arrested by the monarch and detained in the palace for four days for unknown reasons.

He said: “I was in the market when the palace boys, led by Oba Afolabi, came and asked why I did not pay homage to them. Before I could say a word, the monarch asked his boys to take me to the palace and lock me up.”

Oba Afolabi and eight of

his chiefs were arrested by men of the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID) in Akure, the state capital. They were detained for three days before they were granted bail.

The Inspector-General of Police (IGP) later directed that the monarch be brought to the Force Headquaters, Abuja, for further interrogation, where he was detained until he was granted bail last week.

Oba Afolabi, who became the monarch of Igbokoda last November, denied the allegation. He said it was the handiwork of his detractors.

THE NATION FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2013

9

NEWS I have photoLagos denies ‘plan’ to seize fire victims’ land ‘copies of the Daily Times of

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ICTIMS of the Jankara Market fire in Lagos have accused agents of the state government of attempts to seize their land.

They spoke on Wednesday before the Panel of Enquiry sitting on Lagos Island.

A fire occurred in the market last December when fireworks stored in a building at No. 45, Ojo-Giwa Street, exploded.

Some of the victims alleged that the Lagos State Urban Renewal Authority (LASURA) and Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) were trying to frustrate the panel.

But LASURA General Manager Kehinde Benedict denied attempts to seize the victims’ land.

He said the state was only proposing to redesign the area to comply with the original plan.

Benedict said: “We are not forcing them to release their land to us. We want to plan with them to improve their economic base and improve the aesthetics of the area.”

The victims alleged that the agencies met with them after

By Joseph Jibueze

the tribunal was inaugurated.

Their lawyer, Olawale Ajiya, tendered copies of letters from the agencies to attend meetings at the Old Secretariat, Ikeja.

The letters, dated March 12 and March 27, directed the victims to come to the meeting with photocopies of documents of the affected property.

In their testimonies, some of the victims alleged that the agencies urged them to give their land to the government.

Ajiya said: “When a tribunal set up by the state government and headed by a retired judge is presiding over a matter and the matter has not been concluded, why should government officials representing various ministries, including the Ministry of Justice, be meeting with the victims in a private place and threatening them to part with their land?

It is a serious matter.

“This is an insult to the tribunal. What the state agencies are doing is to prejudice the outcome of the tribunal.

They are also wasting the state’s resources.

Ondo tribunal deconsolidates CPC’s petitions From Damisi Ojo and Leke Akeredolu, Akure

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HE Ondo State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal sitting in Akure, the state capital, yesterday adjourned hearing in the petition filed by the Congress for Progressives Change (CPC) and its candidate, Prince Soji Ehinlanwo, till April 18.

The tribunal was to begin hearing yesterday, but Ehinlanwo’s counsel Segun Oghodo pleaded for a short adjournment to enable him prepare.

Mr. Ifedayo Adedipe (SAN), counsel to the first respondent (Governor Olusegun Mimiko), who earlier objected to an adjournment, later accepted.

CPC is challenging the declaration of Mimiko as the winner of last October 20 election by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

At its pre-hearing session, the tribunal struck out CPC’s petition on technical grounds.

The party appealed the judgment and the Appeal Court restored its petition, insisting that the tribunal should have heard it.

At yesterday’s sitting, the tribunal deconsolidated the CPC’s petition from that of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

At the pre-hearing session, the petitions of the three parties were consolidated to speed up hearing.

Speaking with The Nation after the sitting, ACN’s counsel Charles Titiloye said the CPC’s petition was deconsolidated because the tribunal was through with the petitions of the ACN and PDP.

‘Ogun LP is out of touch with the people’

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HE Ogun State Government has said the criticism of its infrastructural projects by the Labour Party (LP) “is borne out of ignorance”.

It said it was a demonstration that the LP leadership has lost touch with the people.

In a statement yesterday, the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Alhaji Yusuph Olaniyonu, said the projects were in response to the inadequacy and outdated state of infrastructure, many of which have not been renovated in the last 20 years.

Olaniyonu said: “The 16 roads being built across the state are aimed at modernising our state and making it an investor’s destination. That is why we have set a standard for our roads to be six-lane with necessary facilities.

“The administration has been very frugal and trans-

parent in the award of contracts. We can boldly say that with the quality of roads we are constructing, nobody can fault our contract costing.”

The commissioner advised the opposition to stop playing politics with development issues and support the government in improving the state.

He said: “Is the LP, which is rarely known in the state, working in sync with our people? Does it understand their needs? Why is it casting aspersion on projects our people are happy with? A good indication that our people are happy with the administration’s projects is the way they reacted to the demolition of their buildings to pave the way for road expansion.

“Our people know what they want and who is protecting their interest. They will not listen to mischief makers, who are pretending to be critics.”

“If the government does not need the tribunal, why ask the victims to appear before it? We have minutes of the meetings where our clients were told to submit their land. The agency said the land owners would not be allowed to rebuild their land individually and would have to go through a recommended developer.”

Ajiya urged Governor Babatunde Fashola to investigate the matter and assure the victims that they would not be dispossessed or restricted in the use of their land.

Benedict said no land would be seized.

Speaking with The Nation, he said: “The state government is not asking them to forfeit their property. If you go to the site, you will see that each plot is on a small piece of land.

“I have photocopies of the Daily Times of 1961, where it was reported that the colonial master then in charge of Lagos Colony wanted to redesign the place. The government acquired the entire area for redevelopment as early as 1951.

“Nobody wants a disaster to happen, but since it has happened, this is an opportunity for us to plan with the owners and give them back nothing less than their original number of square metres.

“We have held consultative meetings with them. Why continue to build on what we wanted to do away with since 1951? We are not acquiring anything and are not forcing them to release their land to us.

“Now that the place is burnt, nobody is occupying it.

This is an opportunity to survey the area and demolish the

burnt buildings, which have been tested and found to be structurally defective. We do not want any building to collapse on anybody.

“The government and each family will decide on what to build there. This is an opportunity to build commercial ventures, redesign the area, improve roads and put facilities in place. It is a win-win situation.”

Fashola inaugurated the tribunal on February 18 to find out the immediate and remote causes of the fire and recommend how to avoid a recurrence.

The panel is headed by Justice Sunday Ishola (rtd.). A Chief State Counsel, Mrs. Olubunmi Fagbayi, is the secretary.

Members include a Special Adviser in the Lagos State Of-

1961, where it was reported that the colonial master then in charge of Lagos Colony wanted to redesign the place.

The government acquired the entire area for redevelopment as early as 1951.

’

fice of Infrastructure and Asset Management, Mr. Olokunola Wasiu and Founding Secretary of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Section on Legal Practice (SLP) Mr. Richard Ahonaruogho.

THE NATION FRIDAY APRIL 12, 2013

10

NEWS Youths to Fed Govt: don’t sell oil blocks From Shola O’Neil, Warri

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HERE was tension in Warri and other communities of Delta State yesterday as prominent youth leaders from oil producing communities converged on riverside Ajudaibo, Ugborodo (Escravos) to protest the Federal Government’s sale of strategic oil fields in the area “to foreigners”.

The aggrieved community leaders lamented that the process of the sale was shady and did not consider the interests of the host communities.

They also demanded that Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) halt its relocation from the state or at least maintain a functional office in the oil city.

Youth leaders from Itsekiri, Ijaw and the Urhobo ethnic groups who attended the meeting, vowed to use all means to persuade the Federal Government to revert the sale and redress the breach of their rights.

The meeting was attended by Michael Diden, Thomas Ereyitomi and Mode Akoma, representing Itsekiri ethnic nationality as well as Boro Opudu of Ijaw ethnic nationality.

Henry Baro and Jaro Movudu Egbo, a lawyer, of the Urhobo

300 ex-militants empowered

By Kelvin Osa-Okunbor

VER 300 ex-militants were yesterday given resources and tools to start their small and medium scale businesses.

The delegates are beneficiaries of empowerment programmes initiated by the Presidential Amnesty Office for ex -militants, which include sales of building materials, electronics, fisheries, supermarkets .

Special Adviser to the President on Niger Delta Kingsley Kuku said the scheme would assist the trained delegates and equip them to be entrepreneurs.

Kuku, who was represented by a Technical Adviser, Larry Pepple, said the support would lay a solid foundation and break the cycle of poverty, contribute to economic growth and move the country closer to the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) of eradicating poverty and hunger by 2015.

The Special Adviser, who recapped the success of the programme, said over 13,000 delegates have been given local and foreign training, skill acquisition and formal education.

He said over 2,500 delegates have been placed in higher institutions around the world.

Kuku said 4,608 are undergoing skill acquisition in many other fields.

O

Governor to quiz commissioner over blackout IVERS State Governor

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Rotimi Amaechi has said the Commissioner for Power, Augustine Nwokocha, would be summoned to explain the incessant blackout in Port Harcourt.

Amaechi spoke while reacting to issues raised at the ECOWAS Town Hall meeting on Malaria elimination and ground-breaking ceremony of Biolarvicides factory in Port Harcourt, the state capital yesterday.

The governor, who regretted the failure of government to achieve 24 hours power supply in Port Harcourt, said his administration has almost achieve this feat, but for Nwokocha.

“Somebody may have to answer the question on light, because I have given the Ministry of Power money to give us 24 hours power supply.

“The commissioner must

From Rosemary Nwisi, Port Harcourt

explain to us why we do not have regular power supply.

“He will either give us 24 hours power supply or he leaves; he cannot keep telling me that he is doing something and we are not seeing light.

“I have told him that he will brief us at the next exco meeting.

On Wednesday, I drove round Port Harcourt, between 11pm and 1am, I did not see light in parts of Port Harcourt.

“When I called him, he said the National Grid has a problem.

“I don’t want to hear about the National Grid, I’ m funding power, I want to see result.

“It is only when you have light that we can demand that you pay electricity bill.

‘No justification for police harassment of Leadership’

A

GROUP, the Human Rights Writers’ Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has faulted the harassment of Leadership Newspapers’ journalists by the po-

lice.

It also berated Presidential media aide, Dr Reuben Abati, for justifying the police action.

In a statement by its National Coordinator, Emmanuel Onwubiko, and National Director of Media Affairs, Ms Zainab Yusuf, HURIWA said: “The hasty defence by the Presidency of the two-day detention of Leadership Newspapers’ journalists by the police is not only puerile but also stands logic on its head.

“It is also a subtle attempt to provide intellectual backup for an emerging regime of dictatorship in Nigeria.

“Abati, who wrote the presidential treatise defending the police harassment of the media workers, has done the journalism profession a great disservice.

“He drew an analogy of this ugly unconstitutional harassment of the Leadership journalists with the recent police inquisition in the United Kingdom of some reporters, who breached the privacy of some citizens.”

Two killed as ACN, PDP supporters’ clash T

WO people were killed on Wednesday in Fugar, Etsako Central Local Government of Edo State, as supporters of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) engaged in a free-for-all.

This comes barely 48 hours after the Commissioner of Police, Folusho Adebanji, met with leaders of parties and some candidates on the need to ensure a peaceful local government election.

The ACN Chairman in the

From Osemwengie Ben Ogbemudia, Benin

local government, Paul Osugbo, said property worth millions was destroyed.

He said the party’s chairmanship candidate, Emmanuel Momoh’s convoy was attacked by hoodlums.

The Nation gathered that a PDP supporter, Odion Agbabi, allegedly drove a vehicle into an ACN cam-

paign rally, sparking a fracas.

A retired teacher, Oboareye Ibharue, was shot in front of his home; the other victim was reported to have died at the hospital.

Momoh blamed the PDP for fomenting trouble in what he said was “ a desperate bid to disrupt the April 20 election.”

“As I speak to you now, our party chairman’s house

and vehicles were set ablaze while my convoy was attacked.

“However, security agents have been drafted to restore normalcy.”

PDP State Chairman Dan Orbih called on the police to apprehend and prosecute those behind the crisis.

He regretted what he described as the desperation of the ACN to win the election at all cost.

Adebanji said some suspects have been arrested and are being interrogated.

•From right: Vice-President Namadi Sambo; Cross River State Deputy Governor Efiok Cobham and Minister of Interior Abba Moro at a meeting of the Presidential Committee on the plight of displaced Bakassi people at the Presidential Villa in Abuja …yesterday.

STORY ON PAGE 56 PHOTO:NAN

I won’t dump PDP, says Amaechi IVERS State Governor Rotimi Amaechi yesterday declared that he would not dump the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

He spoke while speaking with State House correspondents at the Presidential Villa.

The governor was in the State House for a presidential committee meeting to be chaired by Vice President Namadi Sambo in the feud between Rivers and Bayelsa states over the Soku oil fields. The meeting was called off.

Stressing that there was no reason for him to leave a national party, Amaechi denied the allegation that

R

•Denies buying aircraft, helicopter for 2015 From Augustine Ehikioya, Abuja

he procured two aircraft for his 2015 election campaign.

He said: “I am still in the PDP. I am a member of the PDP. “PDP is the only national party in the country for now. Why will one want to leave a national party and go to another party?”.

On the aircraft allegation, he said the Federal Government gave Rivers State approval to buy a helicopter for security purposes.

Amaechi continued: “Till now, they have not allowed the helicopter to come in.

Maybe they are afraid that

it is for 2015. Please help us beg them on behalf of Rivers State that we need the aircraft to be able to secure the people of the state.

“Again, it is not within our control, it is in the control of the Air Force.

“Although we will hire a civilian pilot but Nigerian security forces will manage it, not us.

“How will you use what is in the hands of Nigerian security to campaign? You see the mischief?

“The helicopter is to ensure that Rivers State is under watch for 24 hours. It has cameras, so if somebody is committing a crime, we

are seeing it.

“The monitors are in the office of the Brigade Commander, office of the State Director of State Security Service (SSS), office of the Governor, office of the commissioner of police. So for Christ sake, tell me how you will use it for campaign.

“You can see a lot of mischief. As usual, people will try to dent your image to show that this man is not as transparent as he claims after all.

“We have argued about the first aircraft we bought, that is no longer a story. We did not buy two jets”, he stated

Youths vandalise vicarage in Delta

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POLICE van on a peacekeeping mission to avert the burning of the palace of Richard Okorefe, the Ovie of Agbarha-Otor in Ughelli North Local Government of Delta State was set ablaze by irate youths.

The two-week ‘Ekene’ fes-

•Police van set ablaze From Polycarp Orosevwotu, Warri

tival took a violent turn on Wednesday night, following the destruction of the vicarage of St Andrew’s Anglican Church by irate

youths.

The shop of the queen mother was broken intoand valuable items stolen by the rampaging youths.

It was learnt that the youths invaded the vicarage at 7 pm, destroying property

Wammako: I have no quarel with Akpabio

S

OKOTO State Governor Aliyu Wammako has denied the report that he is contemplating leaving the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and that he has issues with Akwa Ibom State counterpart, Godswill Akpabio.

A statement by Wammako’s Senior Special Assistant (Media), Sani Umar, said: “The report is false in its entirety and a figment of the imagination of the writers, which should be disregarded by responsible persons.

“We believe that apart from being a hatchet job, it is intended to cause mischief and denigrate Governor Wammako.”

The statement noted that the report was

part of a design to cause disaffection between Wammako and Akpabio.

“It is trying to cause disaffection between him and his colleague, is to say the least, very uncharitable and disrespectful, knowing that the two gentlemen have enjoyed a good relationship between them.

“We wish to reaffirm for the avoidance of doubt, that the tissue of lies being bandied by these disgruntled people should be disregarded.

“Any attempt to cause friction or bad blood between the two governors would not succeed no matter what, because they both share great patriotism and faith in a greater Nigeria.”

worth thousands of naira and assaulted the Vicar, Ven. Oghomena Edjere and his family.

A source said someone was seen taking pictures during the festival, which was held around the primary school adjacent to the church.

“During the festival, photographs, video coverage are prohibited. So when the youths saw him with the camera taking the pictures, they went after him and he ran into the vicarage.

“The youths chased him into the house and vandalised everything. They stole some of the property and manhandled the family,” the source said.

About 34 persons have been arrested for their alleged involvement in the mayhem and the Area Commander, Awosola Awotinde, said the suspects would soon be charged to court.

THE NATION FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2013

11

BUSINESS THE NATION

E-mail:- bussiness@thenationonlineng.net

Following the approval of Federal Executive Council, we have concluded arrangements to commence the construction of not just one, but five brand new world class international airport terminal.

- Ms Stella Oduah, Minister of Aviation

N360b required for safe water supply, says Minister

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• From left: Zonal Head, South-West 1, First City Monument Bank (FCMB) Plc, Mr Ayodele Ayodeji presenting a cheque to Mr Folawiyo Adisa, World Para-badminton Champion, for the sponsorship of his participation at this year’s Para-badminton tournament in Spain in Ibadan ... on Wednesday. With them is Chairman, Ibadan Northeast Local Government, Hon. Lukman Alatishe.

IGERIA requires N360 billion to achieve safe water supply nationwide, the Minister of Water Resources, Mrs. Sarah Ochekpe, has said.

Mrs. Ochekpe, stated this yesterday while briefing the leadership of the Peopels Democratic Party (PDP) who paid her a visit to assess the performance of her ministry.

She expressed worry over the manner Nigerians have been sinking boreholes without minding their long term environmental impacts.

She said there were plans by agencies in her ministry to collaborate with other regulatory bodies to streamline the sinking of boreholes in the future.

She said: “We are worried about the impact of

From Gbade Ogunwale, Asst. Editor, Abuja

boreholes on our environment. We are determined to control the impact and we are collaborating with the Federal Capital Territory to put in place measures to control drilling of boreholes.

“We are awaiting assent on an enabling bill for the Water Basin Commission to exercise regulatory functions on sinking of boreholes and to give directives on what should be done and sanctions for those who contravene.”

The Minister of Mines and Steel Development,Musa Muhammad Sada, said part of the target of the administration was to develop coal as fuel for coal fired plants, and that this is expected to contribute 30 per cent to power generation capacity by 2015.

Angry commissioners storm out of FAAC meeting

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ITTER that the Minis ter of State for Finance, Dr. Yerima Lawan Ngama kept them waiting endlessly after the conclusion of the technical session, finance commissioners stormed out of yesterday’s Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) meeting in Abuja.

Two and a half hours after the technical session ended by 4pm, the commissioners and the states’ accountantsgeneral were heralded into Ballroom 3 of the Sheraton Hotel, Abuja venue of the meeting for “lunch”.

From Nduka Chiejina (Asst. Editor), Abuja

Immediately after the late lunch, the commissioners, led their accountants-general out of the venue of the meeting in protest.

Their anger was fueled by the continued holding of the FAAC’s joint session, which they described as an illegality.

The joint session of both the technical session and the commissioners’ forum has become a routine because of the minister’s “unrepentant habit” of delaying the meeting and keeping proceed-

ings from ending in good time.

The technical session is the gathering of the accountantsgeneral of states, the accountants-general of the federation and some employees of the Federal Ministry of Finance.

The commissioners’ forum is the gathering of Finance commissioners, the minister of state for Finance and revenue generating agencies.

One of the commissioners from an Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN)-controlled state said the conduct of the FAAC meetings is “a total mess”.

The commissioner pleaded for anonymity on the ground that his anger might be misinterpreted as the opposition’s view, rather than a genuine opposition to the conduct of the minister.

The Chairman of the commissioners’ forum, Mr Timothy Odaah, told reporters that they were kicking against the attitude of the minister, which, he said, has resulted in the irregularity of the meeting Odaah said: “All finance commissioners are unhappy with the development. The minister has breached the FAAC Act of 1992, which says

NCC to launch MNP scheme April 22

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HE Nigerian Commu nications Commission (NCC) has set April 22 for the launch of the muchawaited Mobile Number Portability (MNP) in Lagos.

Director, Public Affairs, NCC, Mr Tony Ojobo, who, said the delays in the launch of the scheme was as a result

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-N10.6 trillion -Z5.112trillion -$10.84 trillion -£61.67 trillion RATES Inflation -9% Treasury Bills -7.08% Maximum lending -22.42% Prime lending -15.87% Savings rate -2% 91-day NTB -15% Time Deposit -5.49% MPR -12% Foreign Reserve $48b FOREX CFA -0.2958 EUR -206.9 £ -242.1 $ -156 ¥ -1.9179 SDR -238 RIYAL -40.472

By Lucas Ajanaku & Tayo Johnson, Ibadan

of the need to tighten loose ends so that once it is launched, there will be no hiccups.

The regulator recently outlined roles expected of stakeholders, particularly telecoms subscribers to make the scheme successful.

According to the NCC, while service providers and the regulator are getting set to roll out the service, certain important roles were expected from the subscribers using the over 113 million active telephone lines in the country who may want to port their numbers.

Also, Interconnect Clearing House, the company appointed

by NCC to create a unified interface billing system, is rounding off the process of bringing the various GSM networks on the MNP platform.

MNP is expected to address many of the ills in the industry, particularly that of poor Quality of Service (QoS).

MNP will allow subscribers to change operators without changing numbers.

The Minister of Communications Technology, Mrs. Omobola Johnson, recently assured of the readiness of the government to kick off the MNP service.

“We are going ahead with

Mobile Number Portability, because it is going to give subscribers lots of choice and freedom. MNP will bring new dimension to the competition in the industry. All network operators will have to work harder to earn the trust of subscribers, because they will now have choices.

“MNP will definitely give consumers varieties of choice but the major issue is for us to improve on our infrastructure and improve services, so that we don’t have to be moving from network to network,” she added.

Meanwhile, the Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the NC, Eugene Juwah has said MNP will lead to tariff decrease.

Juwah who was represented by the commission’s new media director, Dr Sylvanus Ehihioya spoke yesterday at the 72nd edition of Telecoms Consumer Parliament, held at Jogor Event Centre, Ibadan.

Juwah assured consumers that the commission will ensure that the tariffs platforms on all networks is transparent and will continue to emphasize that Quality of Index of all networks be published through the media at regular intervals for subscribers’ guide.

The NCC boss said that when the MNP is imple-

mented, it will also give subscribers the options of changing service providers who offer poor services at will while retaining their mobile numbers.

“MNP will definitely give consumer varieties of choice but the major issue is for us to improve on our infrastructure and improve services so that we don’t have to be moving from network to network.

“For the successful implementation of this initiative, the commission has developed comprehensive porting guidelines and engaged Number Portability Clearing House managed by a reputable and neutral operator which would act as a centralised databased and a unified billing system interface” he said According to Juwah, he said MNP will also cut down the carrying of many handsets by subscribers for fear of network failure, as they have the option to migrate to the best network of quality.

He noted that part of the major prerequisities for a number to be ported is to be registered in the SIM registration databased, while urging all telecoms subscribers to register their SIM Cards in other to benefit from the proposed service.

that the technical session must hold a day before the commissioners forum; that is not happening today (yesterday).

He said the commissioners would not “want to preempt his excuses. If he does not give a cogent reason we know what to do.”

Odaah and his colleagues said they could not be pushed around or treated with levity as representatives of the governors of their states.

They said that it was not the

first time the minister has delayed the meeting.

The meeting was supposed to be for the disbursement of last month’s federation allocation.

The spokesman for the minister’s office, Mallam Mohammed Nakoji, said his boss was absent at the meeting as a result of other pressing engagements which warranted the acccountant-general of the federation to go out to look for him.

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BUSINESS NEWS

Nigeria declines in global ICT ranking

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IGERIA has declined in global rankings of countries that deploy Information Communications Technology (ICT), and other new technologies to increase the growth and well-being of their citizens.

The country ranked 113 out of 144 countries surveyed in the Networked Readiness Index (NRI), declining by one rank from its position of 112 (out of 142) in the previous last year’s Report. However, the country inched up by 0.1 points in actual NRI scores to 3.3 points this year from 3.2 points in 2012, when measured on a scale of one (lowest) to seven (highest).

According to the latest World Economic Forum (WEF) report on Global In-

By Lucas Ajanaku

formation Technology Report (GITR) 2013 and published with the theme Growth and jobs in a hyperconnected world, it measured the extent to which 144 countries took advantage of ICT and other new technologies to increase their growth and well-being.

Highlight of the report about Nigeria’s ICT competiveness showed that though the country improved in its NRI ranking for this year to 113 from last year’s 112 , the country has remained in the lowest quartile of countries sampled in both reports.

This shows the extent to which the country still grapples with the necessary conditions to close the ICT competitiveness

gap with most advanced economies.

Notwithstanding this gap, the report notes that the country has improved in seeking the delivery of societal benefits from ICT by initiating a broad-based National Broadband and ICT Plan,which focuses on greater broadband adoption through intensifying the motivators of technology use. “This is attributed to ICT Skill Development Plan incorporated in Nigeria’s National Information Communication Technology (ICT) Policy Draft 2012. This development has led to Nigeria’s significant improvement in one of the ten NRI pillars – Social Impacts – ranking 88 in 2013 from 102 in 2012,” the WEF report noted.

The report also acknowl-

edged that Nigeria’s market and regulatory framework has been able to support high levels of ICT uptake, adding, however, that the cost of accessing ICT, either via mobile telephony or fixed broadband internet, has remained a constraint towards widespread technology adoption in the country.

The GITR 2013 underscored Nigeria’s clear divide in ICT usage between individuals and businesses. While corporate organisations in the country have intensified their efforts to integrate ICT into business processes – improving in that regard to a rank of 68 from 77; the penetration of ICT among individuals has deteriorated – to a rank of 111 from 105 in the last one year.

Govt seeks Polish investment in rural electrification

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HE Minister of Power, Professor Chinedu Nebo, yesterday enjoined the visiting Polish delegation led by Pan Jan Bielecki, to build small power holdings to provide electricity for rural dwellers in Nigeria.

Nebo said it was impossible to get the super grid to all rural communities. “We will like to engage with your various entities to build small power holdings that would provide electricity to the rural populace.

“We are also prepared to explore Polish assistance in metering in conjunction with our regulatory bodyNigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC),” he said.

From John Ofikhenua, Abuja

He listed other areas of collaboration to include capacity building, saying, “we can begin to forge a linkage with your technical universities, we need to develop a versatile capacity in the power sector.”

He said Nigeria has opportunities for polish manufacturers and investors to invest in, either as Independent Power Producers (IPP), or in partnership.

Nebo said the Ministry is concerned with the Polish expertise in transmission, as the lines in the country are weak.

“We ask of Poland to help develop our evacuation of power capacities. We are poised to take prompt action, so that all these proposals are turned into concrete outcomes.

“We want to get the best mileage from this partnership, so as to take the power sector to the next level,” added.

Meanwhile, the Chairman, Economic Council of the Polish Government and the Leader of the delegation, Pan Jan Bieleckin, informed Nebo of some projects in the sector that are attractive to the Polish delegation.

He said Poland has comparative advantage in coal for power generation, adding that over 80 per cent of power in Poland is generated using coal.

Bielecki said Poland controls substantial business interest in Central Europe, hence its potency in partnering with Nigeria in diverse areas of power, especially small generation plants, using coal, gas and steam.

69 get NSE’s fellowship From Franca Ochigbo, Abuja

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HE Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) has conferred its fellowship on 69 engineers.

Speaking at the society’s First Quarterly Dinner in Abuja, NSE’s President, Mustafa Balarabe Shehu, said: “I want to implore all those conferred to see this as a wakeup call, a tonic to galvanise you and increase your interest and contribution to the growth and development of your primary professional constituency, the NSE, engineering profession and the nation in general.

“The conferment must not be seen as an end in itself, but an opportunity to be of greater service to the society, supporting its project and programmes and lending voice and muscle to any of its quests where possible.

“On stakeholders’parley, it should be part of efforts to strengthening ties with stakeholders in both the legislative and in the executive arm of government, the NSE leadership recently reached out to our members who are elected into the National Assembly as well as those who are CEOs of Federal Government agencies. Far-reaching deliberations were held at the separate occasions, all with a view to improving engineering professions,” he stressed.

THE NATION FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2013

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THE NATION FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2013

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AGRO-BUSINESS

Expert warns farmers on risk of disease

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• HELLO: A herdman using his mobile phone.

‘Africa needs $50b investments for agric’ A FRICA requires about $50billion of investment to take a shot at food security and self-sufficiency, Olam Group‘s Regional Managing Director and Global Head of Palm, Ranveer Chauhan has said.

Olam group is the world’s largest trader in cashew nuts and the second-biggest coffee merchant.

In an exclusive interview published in the April issue of the pan-African magazine, African Business, Ranveer Chauhan, Olam’s regional managing director and global head of Palm, had called for a vast programme of investment and subsidies to boost African agricultural production and infrastructures.

Chauhan noted that Africa’s green revolution is not going to happen without such investments.

“I think Africa requires about $50billion of investment to take a shot at food security and selfsufficiency. Just taking broad num-

Stories by Daniel Essiet, Agric Correspondent

bers, let’s say Africa wants to produce 6million tonnes of palm oil and 10m tons of rice. Africa imports about 9million tonnes of rice and 4m tonnes of palm oil. Put together, these crops would require about $50billion of investment, “ he said.

He said an incentive and support programme for $10billion would help encourage the investments in the agri-sector.Chauhan said: “It could be an interesting framework for policy makers to consider. If policy makers don’t think along these lines, agriculture growth in Africa will be very slow. It would be dependent on the hard work of a few corporates who are in the lucky position we

are in, in that they have a large and multiple pool of resources they can dig into to commit on such a transformative scale. I think governments need to provide the agricultural infrastructure such as roads and access to markets. Ultimately, governments need to commit to training people. Today, the whole burden falls on conglomerates like ours.”

According to Chauhan, helping agribusinesses across the continent is not only a matter of food independence but also the best way to solve the unemployment problem prevalent throughout Africa. Despite the challenges in infrastructure and basic facilities for businesses to thrive he is optimistic about African government policy towards the agricultural sector and is a strong believer that agriculture is a large, genuine and viable sector in which Africa can carve a niche.

Nigeria, three others plan drought tolerant maize

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IGERIA and three other countries are embarking on a programme to encourage farmers to adopt drought-resistant crop.

The other countries are Mali, Benin and Ghana.The promotion of high value drought resistant crops is a strategy to cope with climate change challenges and repeated droughts in the Northern part of the country.

The researchers, policy makers and other stakeholders are working under the Drought Tolerant Maize for Africa.

They converged on the campus of the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) in Ibadan to develop work plans towards rapid dissemination and adoption of drought tolerant maize.

The meeting in Ibadan, also provided participants the opportunity to take a retrospect of the past and chart a way forward.

Addressing participants at this year’s yearly planning meeting, Coordinator of the DTMA Project, Dr Tsedeke Abate, reminded stakeholders that the project provided a platform for researchers to demonstrate to donors and policy makers in Africa the benefits of research.

“This is an opportunity for us to show our policy makers that with the right kind of approach, we can make a difference,” Abate added.

According to him, increasing the cultivation of drought-tolerant maize varieties in Africa will bring the necessary transformation and the needed boost for maize production in the continent.Other drivers of adoption of drought tolerant varieties, he noted, include increasing the participation of women in maize projects and also the creation of new/strong partnerships.

Abate said that the focus on women was strategic considering their invaluable contributions to agricultural development in Africa.

IITA Deputy Director-General (Research), Dr Ylva Hillbur, commended the researchers for their efforts in developing and dissemination of DT maize.

She noted that the DTMA project is important to Africa as it is addressing one of the most important constraints (drought) to maize production in the continent.Launched in 2007, the DTMA project provides insurance against the risks of maize farming, using conventional breeding to develop and disseminate varieties that can provide a decent harvest under reduced rainfall. IITA

Breeder, Dr Baffour Badu-Apraku, who is also the West Africa Coordinator of the DTMA project said, the project had so far recorded impressive milestones, mostly through the development of new varieties. For instance, between 2007 and 2010, Nigeria released 18 drought tolerant maize varieties while Ghana released 13 under the same period.

Badu-Apraku is hopeful that regional governments would support efforts to make these varieties available to farmers.Participants from Mali, Nigeria, Ghana and the Republic of Benin said farmers in their respective countries love the varieties.To effectively make the varieties available to more farmers, they proposed the strengthening of community seed producers to complement efforts of seed companies in the region.“We cannot but bring in the community seed producers if we want more farmers to have access and adopt drought tolerant maize,” said the Acting DirectorGeneral, Nigeria Seed Council, Dr Olatokun Olusegun.

Implemented by CIMMYT, IITA and national partners in 13 African countries of sub Saharan Africa; the third phase of the DTMA project will end in 2016. .

N outbreak of diseases in farms is immiment following the coming rains this season, a don, Prof Abiodun Adeloye, has said.

Adeloye, who is of the Department of Animal Production, University of Ilorin (UNILORIN), said seeds could be infected with fungal diseases.

He said farmers get their seeds tested and treated to minimise the risk.

He said soil and seed borne pathogens affect seeds and the infection can smother and kill young plants.

Adeloye said there were possibilities of high concentrations of diseases and advised farmers to get their seeds treated before they drill.

According to him, seed treatments will protect the seedling as it establishes and also reduce inoculum levels in the soil and at the base of the crop.

He said diseases could cause reduced yields, lower specific weights, reduced seed germination and in some cases contaminate the grain with mycotoxins which can be harmful to humans and animals.

Adeloye highlighted the need to observe the highest animal health standards as foot and mouth disease could pose serious threats.

With climate change, he noted that the government support developing advanced solutions that protect animal health.

Adeloye said animal health had complex consequences on the food chain, trade and the economy.

He said animal disease outbreaks in the growing livestock sector present significant losses in farm productivity,which causes market disruptions.

With expected heavy rains, a world bank consultant, Prof Abel Ogunwale stressed that poor nutrient status of rain drenched soils would require use of fertiliser.

He said careful soil testing and understanding of nutrient status will be essential if growers are to get optimum benefit from fertiliser application.

Following expected months of heavy rains, Ogunwale said a considerable amount of nutrients would have been leached from the soil and nitrogen index is likely to be low.

Union: 90 % of Nigerian farmers die of poverty

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HE Kwara State Chairman of Agricultural and Allied Employees Union of Nigeria (AAEUN), Mr Kayode Ehindero, said about 90 per cent of Nigerian farmers die of poverty.

Ehindero made the claim in Ilorin while speaking with reporters after members of the union completed an endurance trek as part of activities marking the commencement of the Kwara 2013 Agricultural Games.

He appealed to the Federal Government to spend more on productive sectors of the economy such as agriculture in order to boost the economy.

Successive administrations, he said, had been paying lip service to agriculture, adding that this had impacted negatively on the nation’s economy.

Ehindero, who noted that agriculture and sports had a symbolic relationship.

He said this informed the decision to use the games to send a message to government.

He said the endurance trek tagged, “Trek for the Forgotten Farmers, ’’ was to draw attention to the plight of local farmers as well as the need to institute a social welfare scheme for them.

The agricultural games, Ehindero added, was introduced to promote relationship and unity among stakeholders in the sector.

He also said the Agriculture House under construction would serve as the secretariat of the union as well as host its agriculture academy.

The academy,he added,will offer training on vocational studies relating to agriculture.

The agriculture house, according to him, had cost about N10 million and was about 90 per cent completed.

Katsina farmers to get 4,000 bags of fertiliser

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HE Fadama II project, under the African Development Bank (AfDB), has made arrangements to distribute 4,000 bags of fertiliser and multi-crops crushers to irrigation farmers in Katsina State.

The state’s Commissioner for Agriculture, Alhaji Musa Adamu, made this known in an interview with reporters in Katsina.

He explained that 300 bags of the commodity and one multicrops crusher would be distributed to Fadama Resource User Groups (FRUGs) in each of the 10 participating local government areas of the state.

The participating local governments, he said, include Katsina, Bindawa, Mani, Kankara and Faskari, Kaita,

Baure, Kafur, Kankia and Dutsinma.

He said 1,200 bags of the commodity had been distributed to farmers in Katsina, Bindawa, Mani and Kankia Local Government Areas, while the exercise was on-going.

He said: “The fertiliser is being sold to irrigation farmers at subsidised rate of N2,000 per bag as against the market price of N5, 200. This is part of the effort towards boosting agriculture.”

He said the exercise was part of production support of the AfDB. Musa, who commended both the state government and Fadama II project for the support, appealed to the beneficiaries to ensure optimum utilisation of the product to enhance productivity.

THE

2013

THE NATION FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2013

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AGRO-BUSINESS Agribusiness confidence dips

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ONFIDENCE in the agriculture sector has not improved due to unpredictable weather conditions, the Programme Coordinator, Farmers Development Union, Mr Victor Olowe, has said.

He told The Nation that the government has not given enough support to farmers left devastated by flooding and prolonged adverse weather disaster last year.

According to him, the weather was the worst he had ever seen. He said declines in crop output and quality, alongside difficult planting conditions, have undoubtedly shaped farmer attitudes.

He explained that there was a fall in farmers’profit because of dreadful weather that affected the harvest and caused difficulties for crops.

Fish imports on the rise, says society

• Farmers harvesting maize at a farm.

ECOWAS to review animal production standards to promote health, trade

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HE Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Commission is set to review set standards and develop a common approach to enhance animal production and trade in the region.

ECOWAS Commissioner for Agriculture, Environment and Water Resources, Dr Lapodini Atouga, said this at a meeting of ECOWAS delegates to the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) in Abuja.

Atouga said that the review was to ensure that OIE delegates from member states have a common approach to wholesome animal production and trade to promote a healthy and food sustained region.

He also said that maintaining a common approach would prepare ECOWAS OIE delegates ahead of the continental and international veterinary meetings in Abidjan and Paris in April and May. “The general objective of this meeting is to review the reports of the OIE in order to analyse the rationale and impact of the proposed draft changes to the reports on the

Stories by Daniel Essiet, Agric Correspondent

region’s effort towards trade in livestock.

“This meeting will help in the development of common positions for the ECOWAS region and improve participation in international standard setting process as standards will enhance the health and well being of ECOWAS citizens.’’

Atouga was represented at the meeting by Dr Johnson Boanuh, the Director of Environment in the ECOWAS Commission.

Also speaking, Prof. Ahmed ElSawalhy, the Director, African Union, Inter African Bureau for Animal Resources (AU-IBAR), emphasised the need to enhance compliance to set standards which he identified as a challenge.

El-Sawalhy was represented by Dr Raphael Coly, the Project Coordinator, AU-IBAR. He said that training stakeholders in member states on global best practises would ensure compliance to set regulations and complement AU’s efforts at encouraging trade among African regions.

Dr Vivian Iwar, the Principal Programme Officer, Livestock Development, told reporters that the region had adopted regulations on the harmonised standard of processing animal products.

She said the adoption of harmonised standards was vital to the increase in regional and international trade in animal products.

Iwar added that stakeholders in the ECOWAS region were being sensitised on global best practises in animal production.

“What we have done is to conduct sensitisation workshops to train trainers who in turn train the local producers in member countries because the local producers are the most important factor in this system.

“If he does not know what antibiotics to administer to animals or who to report to when a disease occurs, we have a problem, and all these things affect trade.

“So we have sensitised stakeholders on the development of the policies and advocated with policy makers to develop the standards,” he added.

Firm to boost rice production

• Onalaja

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N indigenous firm, HYST Global Business Limited, said it will continue to spearhead the advancement of rice production, in connection with promoting food sufficiency in the country for the coming years.

To realise this, its Chairman and Chief Executive, Mr Biodun Onalaja said the company was using recommended rice production technologies and will enhance the knowledge of local farmers on rice production by equipping them

Olowesaid high costs of fallen stock resulted in more pressures on the farming industry.

He said the severe weather affected farm farm productivity in many areas of the country.

Olowe said it was vital the government encouraged a shift to sustainable agriculture.

The FADU chieftain said farmers have continued to deliver in extraordinary circumstances to stay afloat.

Unseasonable conditions across the country,he noted has caused disruption in many homes and businesses, with farmers battling to ensure farms keep working and animals cared for.

Rising costs of feed, which are borne by the poultry meat industry, are contributing to declining confidence within that sector.

with the needed information on new technologies.

He said his firm sets out to take farming and value addition to agricultural products to new heights.

His firm’s rice farms is located in Niger River Basin, Ejiba, Kogi State.

He said the rice paddy is sold to the rice processor to generate income for the company. Hyst is into talks with some rice processors in the country to guarantee the buyback of the paddy.

Hyst has received production and supply order from two prominent processors.

The processors are Ebony Agro Industries Limited and Umza International Farms Limited) located in Ebonyi and Kano states.

The companies are to be supplied FARRO 52 and FARRO 44 rice paddy. Hyst is also concluding arrangement into signing Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the companies.

Onalaja said: “Presently, we’re focused on the production of rice paddies but would go into proper processing and packaging of products under the HYST brand as soon as our processing plant is set. We are also working towards exporting our products to

neighbouring countries in future.”

He said his company has 2,000 hectares of land in lower Niger River Basin, Ejiba in Kogi State to be developed for irrigated and rain fed farming.

A total of 1,600 hectares is being planned for rice production. Four hundred hectares had been developed for the production of rain fed paddy in anticipation to expand the production capacity of the land in readiness for the irrigated planting season.

He said: “There was a dam with well layed irrigation system on the farm which would enable the farm do three cycles of rice farming throughout the year.”

He said his organisation will also encourage entrepreneurship amongst inhabitants of the host communities by providing land and inputs for their farming operations, and buying the produce off them for processing as the need arises, especially during the third year of the project.

In future, Onalaja said his firm would go into complete rice production process - from planting to packaging - ensuring consumers get premium quality rice when purchasing the HYST brand.

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HE Chairman, Fishery Society of Nigeria (FISON), Dr Awotein George, has said that Nigeria imports 80 per cent of the fish it consumes.

George, who is also a lecturer in Faculty of Agriculture, Rivers State University of Science and Technology (RUST), said this in Abuja. ‘’Only about 20 per cent of the consumption requirement are locally produced both from the captured and aquaculture, while 80 per cent are imported.’’

George said the low level of production was caused by high cost of production and the insecurity on the high seas, among other factors.

He noted that most fish farms in the state had folded up due to the high cost of feed, adding that 15 kg of imported floating feed cost between N5,000 and N6,000.

The chairman said research had shown that more than 70 per cent of the cost of fish production was spent on feeds.

He, therefore, appealed to the state and Federal Governments to subsidise fish feeds the same way they subsidised inorganic fertiliser for crop farmers.

George noted that such subsidy would boost fish production in the country, encourage prospective farmers and enable farmers to expand their fish farm to increase production level.

He said the importation of 80 per cent of the fish consumed in the country had its economic and health implications.

The chairman noted that Nigeria was losing both revenue and employment opportunities to the exporting countries.

He alleged that most times, imported fish was preserved with chemicals and stored for six or seven months and advised Nigerians to reduce consumption rate of imported fish. ‘’Nigerians should reduce their in-take of imported fish because they have stayed in stores for six to seven months,’’ he added.

Vegetable sellers flay lack of processing facilities

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RUITS and vegetables sellers in Lagos have bemoaned lack of processing facilities in the state for easy processing of their perishable items.

Some sellers said the challenge of processing perishable items was overwhelming; stressing that it could only be tackled by the government.

A vegetable farmer, Mr Patrick Ike, said the dearth of processing facilities could discourage them from continuing with the business.

“Some of these vegetables are brought in terrible conditions and in most cases if they are not sold out on time they go bad and you are left to bear the loss,’’ he said.

Corroborating Ike, Mr Musa Balla, a fruit seller, said that the reason why fruits were expensive was because traders increase the prices to make up for losses.

“How can I buy and sell at a loss? There must be a balance so that at the end of the day the loss is shared between the buyers and the

sellers in order to remain in business,’’ Balla said.

Another vegetable seller, Mr Yakubu Ibrahim, said that it was painful to see big heaps of vegetable rotting away everyday and be completely helpless on how to savage the situation.

There was a huge heap of waste on the ground at the vegetable section of Oyingbo market.

A fruit seller, Mrs Chioma James, said it was not the traders’ fault that their produce rots away and urged the government to come to their assistance in providing processing facilities.

Chinaza Joseph, a 32-year-old vegetable seller, explained that when there were leftovers, to avoid waste, they take them home to dry and sell them as dry powder for animal feeds.

“Some farmers that rear animals come around to buy the waste to feed their animals but it is not enough to cover for loss incurred.

“The solution to the problem is to reduce wastages,’’ Joseph advised.

• A fisherma

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THE NATION FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2013

SOS

JOBS

HELP

Accident victim for surgery in India

111,312 benefit from micro-credit scheme

Ex-minister lifts alma mater

Akwa Ibom

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Delta

FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2013

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Enugu

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Email: news_extra@yahoo.com

127 indigent students get scholarship

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•Governor Obi

O fewer than 127 students from poor backgrounds have been given scholarship in Awka, the Anambra State capital, by a group known as Ambassador’s Club.

The club said its decision to help the students was inspired by the developmental strides of Anambra State Governor Peter Obi, with whom the group said it was in talks to build a recreational club

From Nwanosike Onu, Awka

in the city.

This was made known in the state capital when the member representing Awka South I, Hon Kenechukwu Chukwuemeka, of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) hosted the club members.

The chairman of the club, Collins Ben Iloanya told reporters

that the discussion with Governor Obi for the provision of land for the project had reached advanced stages.

He said: “We want to build a legacy in this town for the future generation and that is also why we have been giving scholarships to indigent students up to university level.

“Presently, we are building a hall in the town worth N500m, so

what we want is a place where people can go, look around and enjoy themselves especially during festive periods.

“The club has respected members of the society as its patrons like Sen. Ben Ndi Obi, Lt-Gen. Isaac Obiakor (retd), among others,” Iloanya said.

Furthermore, he said that the

D

ESPAIR has given way for scores of widows in Port-Harcourt, capital of Rivers State. They got cash.

They got food. They got clothing. And, above all, they got love from where all those gifts came.

Their benefactor was the Divine Elects Sapphires Club (DESC), a non-denominational group of Christian professionals.

The widows’ emotions got the better of them. One launched forward with outstretched arms and embraced the club’s president, Mr Anthony Oko-Ikpor. Others had tears flowing down their cheeks, but they were tears of joy.

The DESC gave each widow who turned up at the event a bag of rice, a piece of Ankra cloth, N10,000 cash and condiments to cook the rice, among other things.

Overwhelmed by the gesture, Mrs Hannah Etitinwo from Elekahia community in the state capital recalled how unkind life has been for her since she lost her husband years ago.

To worsen matters for her since 2007, an ailment left her dependent on medicine and hot water.

“I drank medicine until the medicine in the chemist’s shop almost finished. It was since this year that I told God that He must heal me and since then I have been receiving favour,” she said.

Mrs Ibiada Eugene from Bukuma-Agum in Degema Local Government Area of Rivers State, Mrs Alice Patrick who came from Port-Harcourt as well as many other widows who benefited from the kind gesture also had similar stories of sorrow to tell.

With tearful eyes, they prayed for the progress of DESC for sparing a thought for them in a society that is fast becoming too individualistic.

Addressing the widows, the

•The widows and their gifts

A lift for widows in Rivers Club donates food, cash From Clarice Azuatalam, Port-Harcourt

President of DESC, Mr Oko-Ikpor said that the club embarks on philanthropic services from time to time and that it considered it worthwhile to bring widows together and show them love.

Oko-Ikpor also told them that just as the club gave them a surprise message to come and

collect these items, they would still be called upon to receive empowerment but all they have to do is to believe that with God all things are possible.

Words of exhortation also came from a member of the Board of Trustees of the club, Mr Ndubuisi Oti who advised the widows to cast their burdens on God who is always the husband of the widows.

•A grateful widow embraces Oko-Ipkor

•Continued from Page 45

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Enugu upgrades seven hospitals

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• From left: Manager International Collaboration Unit, Health Canada, Mr Greg Monsour; National Agency for Food,Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC)Director,Registration and Regulation,Dr Monica Eimunjeze;Director for Vaccine Evaluation,Health Canada,Dr Lindsay Elmgren and NAFDAC Director-General, Dr Paul Orhil during the opening ceremony of Health Canada -NAFDAC Mentorship Launch Meeting in Lagos PHOTO: ABIODUN WILLIAM

35 youths get skills training

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O fewer than 35 youths in Bori, Rivers State, are to benefit from skill acquisition programmes aimed at reducing unemployment and poverty in the area, Sen. Magnus Abe, said in Bori.

Abe, who represents Rivers East, said the youths would be trained in manufacturing, welding, fabrication, carpentry, refrigerators and air conditioners repairs as well as joinery.

Other skills are technical drawing, tender estimation, quantity survey, bricklaying, control and measurement, he said.

Abe said he initiated the programme to help boost the socio-economic well being of

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Rivers the people.

He said the programme would equip the beneficiaries with requisite knowledge that would enable them develop business ideas and become useful to themselves and their families.

According to him, more youths from the district will be recruited for training after the graduation of the present set.

Abe praised the Rivers State Polytechnic and the Rivers State Sustainable Development Agency for their partnership toward empowering youths from the area.

NGO empowers women

HERE is urgent need for government and public-spirited individuals to address issues relating to women and children in the country.

This was the concern expressed by Mr Adeyinka Odukoya at the launch of Hand of God Support Organisation,a non-governmental organisation.He is the president of the group.

According to Odukoya, if women and children are empowered there will be less economic burden in each family and the society at large, adding that as a pilot scheme, the NGO is concentrating on how to create enterprising vocation for the less privileged especially women.

To make good his words, about 12 women were empowered with cash donations on the occasion while a good number of public school students were given free school uniforms and writing materials. The icing on the cake was the presentation of a two 14-seater urvan buses as free school ride for pupils from Alagbado axis, a densely populated area in Lagos State.

“Our main focus is not only women and children but the less-privileged in the society. We are primarily out to touch and change lives. We also aim to assist in areas of devel-

•Mr Odukoya giving cheque to a beneficiary

opment such as migration, education, skill acquisition, loan, counseling, accommodation and job placements, free education for the youth, among others. Our ultimate goal is to provide a safe world free from injustice against women and children across the globe.

Yes we are also out to fight against child abuse, domestic abuse in women and rape.

“The financial assistance we gave out today are in categories, based on the vocations the women had undergone. At least each beneficiary had passed through a 90-day intensive vocation training of their choice. Six women are empowered on water treatment profession. They are now water technologists that can empower any other person. Don’t forget that a person success only become real when it has incorporated the value he/she has to others.

He said the donation of the two buses was informed by the rigours students in the area have to pass through while crossing the busy Lagos-Abeokuta Express Road. He said: “ So we source for fund to get the two buses that are being used for free school ride for the pupils. We are happy doing it because it is a welcome initiative to school staff and parents of the pupils”.

HE Enugu State government has approved N1 billion for the renovation and upgrading of seven district hospitals in the state.

The state’s Commissioner for Information, Mr Chuks Ugwoke, announced this while briefing newsmen in Enugu on Tuesday at the end of the state’s Executive Council meeting.

Ugwoke listed the hospitals as Udi (Udi LGA); Awgu (Awgu LGA); Enugu-Ezike; Ikem (Isiuzo); Nsukka (Nsukka LGA), Poly-Clinic (Enugu North LGA) and Agbani (Nkanu West LGA) district hospitals.

The commissioner said that the renovation and upgrading had become vital for effective, efficient and quality healthcare delivery in the state.

Ugwuoke explained that the scope of the exercise would begin with the construction of new hospital complexes, laboratories, mortuaries and gatehouses.

Others include the sinking of boreholes and the construction of quarters and fences at the seven hospitals.

The commissioner said the move was geared toward providing affordable medical care for its citizens.

‘Perm Secs ’re bedrock of development’

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KWA Ibom State Governor Godswill Akpabio has described permanent secretaries in his administration as the bedrock of his “Uncommon Transformation” programme.

Akpabio stated this during a reception held at Sheer Grace Arena, Uyo after 20 years of marriage between Elder Etekamba Umoren, Permanent Secretary, Government House, Uyo and his wife, Glory, Permanent Secretary and Solicitor-General, Ministry of Justice, Uyo. The governor, who lauded the permanent secretaries for their co-operation and support to his administration in making uncommon transformation in the state to work, noted that the state has a high quality of staff who help to make the wheel of government work.

He described Etekamba Umoren as an efficient, humble and dependable ally, thanking him for his devotion to duty and assistance he has been rendering to make his work easier.

Akpabio acknowledged the useful contributions the wife who was trained by Nigeria Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies, Kuru, had been making to the Akwa Ibom govern-

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Enugu Ugwuoke said the council also approved the procurement and installation of 4,606-metre length of stainless designed fence with reflectors and 3207 pieces of Korean made reflecting safety guide posts.

The commissioner said the procurements were for some selected roads within Enugu metropolis.

“The essence of this is to enhance traffic safety of our road users as well as enhance urban beautification and renewal at the total sum of N306 million.”

Ugwoke said the executive council also gave approval for the construction of Ebonyi River bridge at the cost of N309 million.

He said the bridge would replace the old, dilapidated bridge along Ugwuofo-Neke-Ikem road in Isiuzo Local Government Area of the state.

He said the 45-metre long standard concrete bridge to be constructed in the area had been awarded to a reputable construction company.

Akwa Ibom ment, commending her for understanding the challenges the husband is saddled with in government.

The State Executive Officer, who was accompanied by his wife, Ekaette, Secretary to the State Government, Umana Okon Umana and Head of Civil Service, Mrs. Cecilia Udoessien, among others, congratulated the couple on their marriage anniversary, and thanked God for helping them to reach the zenith of their profession.

The governor enjoined the couple to love and worship God in all their dealings, thanking God for prospering and keeping them as husband and wife for 20 years, saying “Sometimes, God does not prosper some people in life knowing that they would not remember Him in life”.

Replying, Elder Umoren said they marked 20 years in marriage on April 3 this year and thanked the governor for supporting him and his wife for her love and understanding.

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•Governor Chime

MO State Governor Rochas Okorocha has said that a relief market would be built in Owerri to accommodate traders who had no shops at the Eke-Ukwu Market.

Okorocha, who made the announcement when he paid an unscheduled visit to EkeUkwu and New Market in Owerri, promised to construct all roads in the markets.

The governor also promised the traders that government would provide electricity, bore holes and street lights in the markets to boost their businesses.

He said that with the construction of the relief market, street trading would be abolished in Owerri, since traders without shops in other markets would now be accommodated.

Okorocha also told traders at the new market that government would re-roof the market before the rains set in.

The governor admitted that street trading was a big problem in the state capital.

He promised to supervise the election of the Owerri Market Traders’ Association,

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HE Delta State Commissioner for Poverty Alleviation, Dr Antonia Ashiedu , said a total of 111,312 persons benefited from the state’s micro-credit scheme between 2007 and February this year.

Out of the number, according to her, 67,861 were women while men were 43,451.

Ashiedu, who spoke in an interview with journalists in Asaba, said the beneficiaries of the scheme were involved in cottage industries, trading, agricultural production, service industries, among other enterprises.

She said the programme had helped to promote peace and security, human capital development and the government’s infrastructural development agenda.

“Uvwie Local Government Area was once known for youth restiveness and volatility but through the micro-credit scheme, many youths are now engaged in income generating activities.

“Now, Uvwie is the benchmark for agriculture in the state. Currently, there are more than 3,500 fish farmers and more than 8,600 fish ponds in the state as a result of the scheme,’’ she said.

The commissioner said the scheme, which was established in December 2007, was designed to address poverty in the rural communities.

She said the programme had also facilitated access of economically weak and disadvantaged segments of the population in the state to productive activities which had made some rural economies commercially active.

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Council, bank partner on climate change

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IRST City Monument Bank (FCMB) has struck a partnership with Isolo Local Council Development Area (LCDA) to establish a culture of sustainable environment within the council area.

The agreement, which is for a two-year period, will see FCMB supporting climate change initiatives of the council as it collaborates to remedy the depreciation of the environment from all forms of gas usage.

To kick start effort aimed at promoting sustainable environment, a Climate Change Unit and Special Green Brigade were inaugurated on Monday, April 8 at the council secretariat along Osolo Way, Isolo.

Already, the council in conjunction with FCMB, has recruited 25 special green brigade personnel who will be trained to monitor waste collection and disposal as well as ensuring there are greens where they should be.

Speaking during the inauguration ceremony, the Executive Chairman of Isolo LCDA, Hon. Shamsudeen Abiodun Olaleye, expressed delight over the collaborative effort, stressing that FCMB has really lived up to its billing as a responsible corporate citizen that is mindful of the effect of climate change on the environment as well as the well-being of the people.

“Climate change is a global problem and

we are glad that FCMB has offered a helping hand in our quest at ensuring a sustainable environment in Isolo. They are indeed a responsible corporate citizen who really mean well for the people of Isolo,” says the council chief Olaleye explained that the inauguration of the Climate Change Unit and Special Green Brigade would facilitate the LCDA’s alignment with the global green movement.

He added that the unit will be working towards emission reduction, with the initial priority on waste management and sanitation.

The Special Green Brigade will also ensure that members of the public are adequately sensitised on environmental sanitation and waste management.

Also speaking, the bank’s Executive Director, Mr. Olufemi Bakre, said “the immediate and further dangers posed by climate change are the basis upon which we are proud to partner with Isolo LCDA towards the realisation of the laudable objectives of establishing a Climate Change Unit and inaugurating a Special Green Brigade”.

He further stated that the project would go a long way to adequately enlighten and educate the public on environmental and waste management issues so as to combat these problems.

Imo scheduled for next month.

He said the two markets had been granted community status and that a liaison officer would be appointed to liaise between them.

On waste management in the markets, he directed the traders to buy cellophane bags for the collection and disposal of wastes generated on daily basis.

The governor said that a football competition would be organised for markets in the state , adding that a new bus and two million naira had been set aside for winners of the trophy.

111,312 benefit from Delta micro-credit scheme Delta She said that the scheme had given hope to many households and turned around the lives of the “rural and urban poor” in the state.

HE Iken-Ogbo Ijebu community and some adjoining towns in Odogbolu Local Government Area of Ogun State, have cried to the state government for help as the only link bridge to the area has collapsed. The bridge gave way under the heavy rains of Monday, July 16, 2012.

The community said this has nearly paralysed socio-economic activities in the area as pupils in the area find it difficult to attend classes and farmers and women face uphill task transporting farm produce and wares.

Iken-Ogbo-Ijebu is the gateway to such towns as Okelamuren-Ogbo, Ibido-Ogbo, IsanyaOgbo and Ijagun-Ogbo.

The chairman, Community Development Association (CDA) of Iken-Ogbo, Comrade Gabriel Adenrele Odulaja with the Alawunren of Okelamuren, Oba Lawrence Oguntayo and Baale of the town, High Chief Olalekan Odunfejo were believed to have

•The collapsed bridge

“The programme targets the rural and urban poor, unemployed people, particularly school leavers, women, physically-challenged persons and people living with HIV,’’ she added.

•From left: Alhaji Owolabi Issa, Adeniji and Hon. Abayomi Daramola at the occasion

‘ Repair our road, bridge ‘

•From left: Hon. Soji Balogun,Mr.Bakre, Hon. Olaleye and ACN chairman, Isolo LCDA, Alh. W.A. Raji, at the event.

Imo to build relief market

By Muyiwa Omobulejo

complained severally to the state commissioner of works.

Also, the only transformer in the town has stopped working, throwing the area into darkness. The road from Iken-Ogbo to Okelamuren-Ogbo and Ibido Ogbo-Ijebu is equallyin bad shape. Former Governor of Ogun State, Aremo Olusegun Osoba started the road project which terminates at IsanyaOgbo-Ijebu while in office but nothing has been on it since he left office.

“We are therefore appealing to Governor Amosun to use his good office find solution to these problems. The situation has adversely affected businesses and other activities in the community. During governorship election, we voted massively for the government which we believe will deliver dividends of democracy to our community”,the community said.

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HE Chairman of Ikoyi/Obalende Local Council Development Area Hon. Adewale Adeniji has praised residents of the area for their patience and support, when his election was challenged by the opposition party at the tribunal.

He said this during a Thank You and Support Programme at the council’s secretariat.

He said: “Today is the beginning of a new era in our lives after scaling through the turbulent court cases. This really challenged our election but at the end of the day, victory came our way. It is not our own making but the court gave us victory. I must tell you that members of the opposition really planned to upturn the elections.”

Adeniji remarked that it took about 15 months to resolve the matter at the court; however, his administration was undaunted as it had to fulfil his campaign promises. “It was within that period of time that we were able to put this new edifice in place, which had become our new secretariat. We were able to embark on some road projects.”

He stressed that the vigilance and support of the people gave ACN the victory otherwise members of the opposition party had planned to truncate the laudable efforts of the administration.

The council chairman stated that now that the litigation was over, government would settle down to address those issues that were pertinent to the development of area and urged the people to support the party.

“Most importantly the bottom line was that the game was not played according to the rule. So, we on our own side cried foul, so we had to move ahead and at the end of the day we had victory. We thank God, if the lower court had upheld the fact that ACN won the councillorship in almost all the wards why would it give the chairmanship the other way when there were ample evidence that we won.”

He maintained that administration was on course of delivering its promises but was help

•Governor Okorocha

Briefly

Orji identifies health sector challenges GOVERNOR Theodore Orji of Abia State has said that the basic problem plaguing the nation’s health sector is disharmony among the various categories of workers in the health institutions.

Orji made the assertion in a keynote address at the 2013 health week organised by the state branch of the Medical and Health Workers’ Union of Nigeria in Umuahia.

The governor, represented by the state’s Commissioner for Health, Dr Okechukwu Ogah, urged the workers to recoup the huge investment made in the sector by the government.

He said the state government had invested much in equipping the hospitals.

“Everybody must not depend on the federal allocation as the only source of revenue to pay the workers.

“We have installed dialysis machines at the Abia State University Teaching Hospital, Aba. “We also have dialysis machines at Abia State Specialist Hospital, Umuahia and these can help to generate revenue,’’ he said.

Thank you, council chief tells residents

By Musa Odoshimokhe

pull down. “We may not have surpassed their expectation but we would appeal to them to keep faith with us and we would not disappoint them in the execution of programmes.

Though we have lots of challenges on ground , we would do everything with our powers to fulfil our own side of the bargain.”

He stated that even when it was obvious that they won and the lower courts decided otherwise they kept faith.

“We have to play it low because it is not in our character to engage in media war. However, we thank the Almighty God who gave us victory at the end of the day,” Adeniji said.

Church holds programme THE Redeemed Christian Church of God Miracle Centre, will hold a day Jacob service on April 24. The theme of the service is: Antidote to Defeat and venue, 19, Bello Folawiyo Crescent, by Mr Biggs along Ikosi Road, Ketu, Lagos. The programme holds from 6pm to 9pm.

The host minister, Pastor Abiodun A. Doherty has assured those that will attend victory over satamic attacks, healing and total deliverance. “It will equally be a time for testimonies,” he said.

Ministering is the Regional Evangelist, Pastor J.T. Kalejaiye, among others.

THE NATION FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2013

19

COMMENTARY EDITORIALS

FROM OTHER LANDS

What’s in a report?

Detention of Leadership newspaper journalists is absolute disgrace in a democracy

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OR the police, the informant is something of a protected species; and the force treats as confidential information supplied by this source in the context of its crime-busting role. In this picture, information value is as important as source anonymity. It is interesting that the media also upholds a similar institutional protection for the provider of information in the context of its constitutional responsibility as watchdog on power.

However, the recent arrest and detention of some journalists betrayed the selfcentred thinking in the police force, which has refused to accommodate the reality that what’s ‘sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander’. If the police have a right to protect informants, why can’t the media, which has an equal right to shield its sources, be allowed to exercise same? This kind of governmental double standard is not only patently unreasonable; it is also deplorable.

Four media workers at Leadership Newspapers – Executive Director, Human Capital, Mrs. Chinyere FredAdegbulugbe; Managing Editor, Mr. Chuks Ohuegbe; Group News Editor, Mr. Tony Amoekedo; and Correspondent, Mr. Chibuzo Ukaibe - as law-abiding citizens reported at the Force Headquarters, Abuja, on invitation in connection with a published story entitled, “Outrage trails presidential directive on Tinubu and APC.” The paper had reported that there was a “presidential directive” to attack key figures in opposition political parties, which the presidency denied, claiming it was a piece of falsehood. “We published

the bromide to authenticate the story,” Amoekedo told reporters, while giving the background to their ordeal.

The journalists endured hours of grilling to disclose the source of the document; and while two of them were released on the night of their arrest, the other two were caged overnight and set free conditionally the following day. Reports said it took the intervention of the Attorney-General of the Federation, Mr. Mohammed Bello Adoke (SAN), to get the police to grant bail to Amoekedo and Ukaibe who are required to report at the police headquarters daily for further investigation.

In this matter, it is quite disturbing that the police force, to put it mildly, went beyond the law. There are worrying questions: Why were the journalists arrested and detained without evidence that they had broken the law? Why did the police force itself break the law by holding two of the journalists beyond 24 hours without charging them to court, contrary to the law? Who was behind the arrest and detention of the journalists? Why did the police allegedly insist initially that they produce the document, or else they would remain in detention? Why did the police demand that they disclose the source of the information, contrary to the ethics of their profession?

Also, it is apt to consider the presidency’s part in what is certainly an absolute disgrace. The authorities created room for suspicion as the journalists were invited for quizzing following the publication of the document by the paper, to corroborate

its report after the initial denial by the presidency. If, in the course of legitimately doing their work, the journalists put the presidency in an embarrassing situation, there can be no apologies for that. Rather, it is the government that should be shamefaced for its messy involvement in the reported plot against the opposition, and apparent moves to muzzle the press. The democratic system of government leaves no room for such uncivilised conduct.

It is, however, heart-warming that Amoekedo and Ukaibe have filed a suit against the Inspector- General of Police, Mohammed Abubakar, claiming N10 million for breach of their fundamental rights. It is a correct signal to the powerful that impunity within the government will be challenged with the instrument of the law.

‘In this matter, it is quite disturbing that the police force, to put it mildly, went beyond the law. There are worrying questions: Why were the journalists arrested and detained without evidence that they had broken the law? Why did the police force itself break the law by holding two of the journalists beyond 24 hours without charging them to court, contrary to the law? Who was behind the arrest and detention of the journalists?’

Catching them young •Delta State Government sets a template for hosting sports in Nigeria

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FTER the disappointment of Nigeria’s non-performance at the London Olympics last year, it appears that the country has begun to take steps to ensure that it once again attains the enviable heights of athletics prowess. This objective was clearly demonstrated at the recently-concluded African Youth Athletics Championships which took place in Warri, Delta State, from March 28 to March 31.

Organised by the Confederation of African Athletics for athletes no older than 17 years of age, the championships brought together 32 African nations, including perennial powerhouses like Kenya, Ethiopia and Egypt. Meant to become an important source for the identification of sporting talent, the championships are modelled upon similar tournaments in Europe and the United States.

The absence of qualifying standards makes it much more accessible than it

‘Nigeria came first in the championships with a total of 13 gold, 10 silver and 12 bronze medals; overhauling second-placed Egypt which led for most of the competition. It is particularly gratifying to note that the country not only asserted its traditional dominance in the sprints, but was able to make some inroads into the middledistance races’

would otherwise have been, and enables participating nations to try out athletes not already in advanced coaching programmes.

Nigeria came first in the championships with a total of 13 gold, 10 silver and 12 bronze medals; overhauling secondplaced Egypt which led for most of the competition. It is particularly gratifying to note that the country not only asserted its traditional dominance in the sprints, but was able to make some inroads into the middle-distance races.

The championships once again demonstrate that Nigeria has never lacked the talent to achieve sporting glory at the highest levels. The real difficulty is with the way in which sports is funded, organised and administered in the country. Resources meant for the development of athletes and the establishment of sporting infrastructure are wasted or stolen, there is a dearth of competitions with which performances can be objectively assessed, and administrative capacity leaves a lot to be desired.

Nigeria’s success in Warri offers the country a vital opportunity to put its house in order. The lessons learnt in organising the championships should become a template for the institution of similar competitions at the local level. Scouting for talent should be taken more seriously, and a comprehensive system of nurturing potential should be established at the local, regional and national levels. Greater focus should be placed on the training of competent administrators who can make sure that sporting policy is properly executed.

It is particularly important that measures

are put in place to ensure that the agefalsification virus that has plagued much of the country’s sport is not allowed to infect the cadet athlete programme. As football has demonstrated, little is gained when corners are cut in this manner. A system of age-verification, complete with supporting evidence, such as school records and a comprehensive timeline, should be developed to ensure that young athletes are truly the ages they claim they are.

Closely related to this is the entrenchment of a zero-tolerance policy against the use of performance-enhancing drugs. The increasing sophistication of this kind of cheating has combined with the appreciable material benefits derivable from sporting success to make the temptation to cheat almost irresistible.

The only way young Nigerian athletes can be saved from this practice is through a mix of continuous enlightenment and a strong regime of drugs-testing. If they are made to understand early in their careers that top performance entails self-discipline and sacrifice, they will be much less likely to engage in any actions that could disgrace them and embarrass their country.

The Delta State Government under Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan must be commended for the commitment and dedication that it brought to the organisation and hosting. It has made a name for itself as an unflagging supporter of sports development in the country, and is outstanding for the comprehensiveness of its efforts to ensure that its citizens are allowed to develop their sporting abilities to the fullest extent.

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Gates’ warning on test scores

N a recent op-ed article, he cautions against overusing students’ standardized test scores in evaluating how well teachers are doing their jobs.

A recent op-ed article in the Washington Post warned against overusing students’ standardized test scores in evaluating how well teachers are doing their jobs. There would be no surprise about that — if it had been penned by the leader of a teachers union. But it was written by Bill Gates, arguably the most influential voice over the last few years in pushing for the use of test scores to rate teachers.

Gates’ warning was based on a study released in January that his foundation funded. It determined that student scores have a useful but limited place in measuring a teacher’s work, and that some other measurements, such as student surveys, are more consistent.

The billionaire philanthropist’s reasoned perspective is appreciated; the problem is that schools in this country are already well down the testing-and-evaluations road. Prodded heavily by reform groups, many of which receive funding from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, states and school districts have in some cases taken the use of students’ scores to extremes that have no grounding in research, making them count for half or more of a teacher’s rating, or hastily concocting tests to measure unmeasurable subjects — and then applying the results to teachers. The most mocked example is Ohio’s extensive new exam in physical education, which includes measuring whether students’ movements while skipping are adequately smooth.

In 2010, California was denied $700 million in federal Race to the Top funds, largely because it declined to require that student test scores be linked to teacher ratings — something the Obama administration had demanded in return for the money, even though there was little if any evidence that the scores had value as indicators of a teacher’s work.

The Gates Foundation has a deserved reputation for testing its education hypotheses with expansive, high-quality studies. It rightly abandoned its previous campaign for high schools to enroll no more than 500 students after funding a study that found that smaller enrollments alone did not have a big impact on student achievement. But again, because the foundation’s billions were behind the small-school movement, districts across the nation switched to that more expensive model, which is hard for them to undo now.

The new study on teacher evaluations contains interesting findings, but much more research is needed.

When philanthropists have potentially useful ideas about education, they should by all means try them out, establish pilot programs, put their money where their mouths are. But before government officials incorporate those ideas into policy, they must study them carefully and make sure that what sounds reasonable in theory works in practice.

– Los Angeles Times TRUTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief Victor Ifijeh • Editor Gbenga Omotoso •Chairman, Editorial Board Sam Omatseye •General Editor Kunle Fagbemi •Editor, Online Lekan Otufodunrin •Managing Editor Northern Operation Yusuf Alli •Managing Editor Waheed Odusile

• Executive Director (Finance & Administration) Ade Odunewu

•Deputy Editor Lawal Ogienagbon

•Advert Manager Robinson Osirike

• Gen. Manager (Training and Development) Soji Omotunde •Chief Internal Auditor Toke Folorunsho •Senior Manager (sales) Akeem Shoge

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•Manager, Corporate Marketing Hameed Odejayi • Manager (Admin) Folake Adeoye

THE NATION FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2013

20

CARTOON & LETTERS

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IR: The plan by the Federal Government to grant amnesty to members of the notorious group, Boko Haram has continued to generate ripples in the polity. This should be expected.

This call, for comprehensive amnesty for the insurgent group - reputed for engaging in deadly bombings and killings of innocent people in Northern Nigeria - has become more pronounced after it was raised by the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III. The idea for the amnesty programme was mooted to encourage the group to halt the on-going insurgency and save the country and Nigerians the recurring agony of insecurity that had almost taken over the nation.

Unfortunately, the poor and uncoordinated response of our security agencies to the activities of the Boko Haram group has done little to stop the attacks, reduce the anxiety and sufferings by Nigerians.

President Goodluck Jonathan had previously rejected the idea during his recent visit to the North East region saying that the notion of amnesty would only apply to people who are known and are ready to engage and enter into meaningful dialogue with the Federal Government - not to those who operate as ghosts.

Why the u-turn? Why is the government now flying the kite of amnesty? First, it has been argued that politicians, especially those from the North-West and North-West may not be able to carry out their campaigns in the 2015 general elections if the lawlessness continued.

Second, apart from the President’s

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Amnesty for Boko Haram ambition to recontest in 2015 - even though he has not openly made known his intention known - members of the National Assembly from the north, traditional rulers and other very influential politicians from the North and other parts of the country, were said to be mounting pressures on the President to grant amnesty, to restore peace.

Again, is the alarming figure of the total number of security opera-

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tives on Internal Security Operation (ISO) in the region, who have already been murdered by the sect may also have prompted the President to consider the amnesty option.

Due to the complex nature of the Boko Haram issue, what I think is rational to do at this juncture is to go into deeper, honest, careful dialoguing and comprehensive crisis management.

Nonetheless, engaging in dialogue has to be contingent on all the par-

ties coming to a realization of the need for it. A sincere appraisal indicates that this pre-condition has certainly not been met by the Boko Haram as the leadership of the group appears to be more interested in violence and insurgency – to cow the government - rather than to cease-fire and engage in frank talks.

In short, offering amnesty will unlikely to make any positive impact on the peace process because

Now that the rainy season is here

IR: Several predictions have been made by different authorities about the intensity of rainfall to be experienced in various states across the country and the likely hazards that the downpour may cause if necessary measures are not put in place to curtail its devastating effects. DirectorGeneral of NIMET, Anthony Anuforom, had predicted that based on prevalent conditions, what happened last year might just be a child’s play compared to what lies ahead. But this can very well be mitigated if the right steps are taken to avoid being caught unawares.

Also, Lagos State Commissioner for Environment, Tunji Bello, warned residents of the state to prepare for at least 236 days of heavy rainfall this year. It behoves on farmers and citizens at large to plan their lives based on the available information. While much emphasis had been on the need for governments at all levels to ensure an all year drainage clearing programme and de-silting of existing canals to tackle this perennial surge, little or no mention has been made on the expected behaviour on the part of the citizenry that are capable of exacerbating the efforts of governments.

Many parts of the world have experienced flooding and a rising level of water in oceans and rivers.

The climate change has led to rising temperatures or global warming, resulting in the melting of the Polar Regions, Nigeria not being an exemption.

Nigerians must change their careless habits of erecting structures without due concern about the safety of their environment (.i.e. compliance with building regulations), desisting from the habit of turning drainage into dumps and building houses in places where they end up disrupting the natural course of water, (.i.e. proper waste

Attention, Nigerian Baptist Convention

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IR: The rumour about the crisis rocking the First Baptist Church, Oke-elerin, Ogbomoso has been making the round for some time before it blew open. One thing about the crisis resolution process of the Baptist Convention is that it is too slow and cumbersome. The process needs to be reviewed to make way for a more pragmatic crisis resolution process. Not being a member of the Church, although a Baptist, I will not like to speculate on the causes of the crisis let alone apportion blame based on hearsay or one sided press release. As a matter of

there is no existing framework for engagement or meeting of minds between the group and the government.

In the mean time, government should take urgent steps to compensate and resettle victims of Boko Haram carnage, as they seem to have been completely forgotten in the scheme of things.

Granting amnesty to the sect now would amount to injustice and encouragement to other criminallyminded groups to cause trouble and seek undeserved reward from the government.

It would be suicidal to appease the sect members without their readiness to surrender arms and unreservedly seek peace.

• Adewale Kupoluyi Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta.

fact, one does not expect the crisis to have been allowed to reach this critical stage in view of the resourceful men and women that abound in that church.

Oke-elerin Baptist Church, probably, the third Baptist church in Nigeria has been a source of pride, role model and example for all Baptist churches in Ogbomoso and beyond, due to relative peace and stability being enjoyed in that church over the years. While her twin church, Ijeru Baptist church witnessed an upheaval, in the late 50s, which dismembered it, Okeelerin church has been free from

such crisis. Today, Ijeru Baptist church’s members could hardly filled half of the pews of the church, ditto for Ori-Oke Baptist church and few others that have experienced crisis at one time or the other.

This has retarded the progress of these churches and equally denied them their rightful positions in the convention.

In terms of evangelization, educational efforts, financial commitment to the association, conference and convention, Oke-elerin Baptist church has never been found wanting. Obviously, its contributions to the expansion of the Baptist work

in Nigeria are legendary. Consequently, I am appealing to the President of the Convention, Dr. Supo Ayokunle to as a matter of urgency, wade into the crisis because First Baptist church Okeelerin is too strategic in the Convention to allow it to be dismembered. Convention resolution process which made it mandatory for association and conference to wade in before convention needs to be set aside in this case. A stitch in time saves nine.

• Adewuyi Adegbite Apake, Ogbomoso.

disposal), embracing alternative energy use and paying necessary attention to sanitation issues.

Besides, the presence of manholes on roads which are meant to provide access to underground pipes and wires, when left uncovered, could pose a serious danger to pedestrians when roads are flooded during the rainy season. People have been known to drown after falling through those holes. It is therefore important to have them covered, especially for the safety of this season.

The unprecedented flooding of last year, following an unusually high volume of rainfall, took many by surprise, not because there were no forecasts about the nature of what was to come, but essentially because the forecasts were not heeded. A repeat of this gory experience could be avoided if government on its part play its role and Nigerians on the other hand complement government’s efforts.

Most importantly, all stakeholders must ensure that all man-induced activities that aid flooding are stopped because any effort from the government would remain futile and a mirage if the desired behavioural pattern is not inculcated by its citizenry. This is a clarion call to all and sundry.

• Ayo Afuwape Iworo, Badagry

THE NATION FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2013 16

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COMMENTS

We are very bad people (3)

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OMEDAY, death will become more than an unexplainable mystery to the incumbent ruling class. Every public officer will die; their family members too.

Despite their inhumanity, they are human after all. They breathe and bleed just like we do. At their demise, they shall discover what manner of life they deserve in the afterlife. They shall find that money and rank they covet are useless after the last howl had fallen silent, at their funeral. They shall learn that currency-activated prayers their clerics hoist above them shall serve like raincoats under a blitz of cannon balls, at the end.

In the wake of their demise, how shall they be remembered? How do we remember men who summon our joys to harness it with a sable bind? Shall we remember them with rage and rant? Shall we wish they burn in the earth, like splinters of wood fed into the hearth to spite the fire? Shall we wish that they lie in plagued repose low down with the worm and ant?

How shall we be remembered?

How shall posterity remember the ones who have perfected the art of letting their voices trail off in confusion at decision time? What will our children think of our desperation to keep the worst of our kind in power? What pantheons or dungeons shall we inhabit in the annals of Nigerian politics?

The troubles of our world are unwieldy like a storm. By our perversions, we impregnate and corrupt history and civilization 53years old. Great evil lies in you and me, and by our perpetuation of it, we make history the way of the

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diabolic that decapitates his newborn to satisfy his hunger pangs.

Too many threads of heedlessness, woven of gluttony and lust, of racism and fear, inequality and blind hate of the stranger, form in our souls, a thick network.

Yesterday, we suffered violence and bloodshed by militants in our creeks, down in the Delta. Today, we suffer violence and bloodshed

by Boko Haram. Every day, we suffer greater violence and bloodbath by murderous and incompetent ruling class. The most remarkable characteristic of the Nigerian ruling class, according to Prof. Itse Sagay, “is its complete and total insensitivity to the public outcry and outrage over the percentage of our resources that the members appropriate to themselves for their own consumption.”

Sagay, in his lecture on ‘Good Governance and Enforcement of Law and Order’ at the Nigerian Institute of Management’s 2013 Management Day, lamented that while Nigerian Senators and House of Representative members earn $1.7m and $1.4m respectively per annum, American Senators and British parliamentarians earn 174, 000 and £65,738 respectively per annum.

Yet income per capita for the US and UK is $46,350 and $35,468, respectively, while that of Nigeria is $2,248. Simply put, Nigerian legislators pay themselves the highest salaries of all legislators in the world, even though their country is amongst the least developed in the whole world.

More worrisome is the government’s inequitable distribution of benefits and punishments meted

HEN President Umaru Musa Yar Adua on November 1, 2007 laid the foundation stone for the construction of the 140 megawatts Aba power plant to be constructed by a private power company, Geometric Power Systems Limited at the plant site in Osisioma-Ngwa, Abia State, not many Nigerians believed that the project would materialize at all. This was due to the persistent and perennial failure and crisis that had accompanied power sector reforms in the country that had thrown vast part of the country into perpetual darkness for years now. A development which had grounded many industries and discouraged foreign investors from investing in the country.

The project according to its designs was expected to be commissioned in April 2009, but will be now commission next month as deadlines were shifted to accommodate contingencies and tackle challenges. ( GPSL company which was owned by former Minister of Power, Prof. Barth Nnaji initiated and commenced the construction of the model power plant with an intention to serve the industrial hub within the Aba-Port Harcourt axis.

Most industries in the areas have gone into extinction owing to poor power supply system of the Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN) and so constructing of a model integrated power plant like the Aba plant was not only a good business initiative, but also good move to save the economy of the South-east region from total collapse.

As the power plant is set to take off operation any moment from now, kudos and praises must go to the brain behind this noble project, an illustrious son of Igbo land, Prof. Barth Nnaji for believing in Nigeria, despite the disappointment and humiliations he has suffered in it. Also to be commended for making the project a reality is the Abia State Government under the leadership of Governor Theodore Ahamuefuna Orji whose government provided enabling and secured environment for the project to be executed.

The company encountered a lot of challenges while constructing the project. Top among the challenges was the problem of insecurity which was occasioned by the kidnapping menace that crept into the state then. A menace that compelled workers of the company at the site to flee then for fear of being kidnapped. This was at a time notorious and politically motivated kidnappers took over the commercial city of Aba and its environs in a desperate bid to ground governance in the state for selfish reasons. Works were brought to a halt at the site, while commercial activities were grounded and residents fled for safety. There were calls for the state of emergency to be declared in the state by some people which include opposition politicians in the state

out to people from different classes and professions, along with the asymmetrical distribution of respect and dignity. Eventually, you get the feeling that some people don’t count and never expected to count in the Nigerian State.

In the wake of violence and bloodshed by successive terrorist groups, mostly constituted by youths, in the country, Mr. President, legislators and governors simmer in frustration and moral outrage. Jumping on to the bandwagon of these elected representatives’ deceitfulness and officialese, monarchs, clerics, newspaper columnists and other bastions of society pay lip service to the degeneration of the Nigerian youth and State.

It is hardly astonishing that the government and cohorts resort to explanations of criminality, a feral underclass, and dysfunctional parenting. These are easier explanations for which the government does not need to accept responsibility. However, a careful assessment of the situation reveals that a greater percentage of the culprits are motivated by poverty, illiteracy, dysfunctional parenting, unemployment and inequality induced by unfair government policies, insensitivity and oppression by the ruling class.

But such cruelties by the most insidious leadership as we currently have do not justify the descent of the Nigerian youth into barbarism or bloodthirstiness of

any kind – but they do anyway.

Insensitivity and bloodlust enjoy sweet repose in the psyche of the Nigerian youth thus habituating them to all manners of savagery and triviality.

Hence it wasn’t surprising to see the Nigerian youth, the media and the general public descend on Shema Obafaye, former Lagos State Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC) as violently as a mugger, as frighteningly as an armed robber, and as deadly as a hit man, over his gaffe when he featured as a guest on a breakfast show on Lagos-based private television, Channels Television.

For Obafaye’s “My oga at the top” slip-up and his inability to accurately state his organization’s internet address, he became an object of nationwide ridicule. Footage of his blunder went viral on the social media making him an object of malicious jokes and caricature on Facebook, Twitter, Blackberry Messenger, T-shirts, and rascally musical medley by local disc jockeys (DJs).

It was one gaffe that Nigerian youths particularly, couldn’t forgive; consequently, branded mugs, face-caps and T-shirts with the inscription: “My oga at the top!” were produced and sold at a profit in merriment over Obafaye’s gaffe.

Several celebrities cashed in on the madness and donned the branded T-shirts to major public events in pitiful desperation to re-

‘Jumping on to the bandwagon of these elected representatives’ deceitfulness and officialese, monarchs, clerics, newspaper columnists and other bastions of society pay lip service to the degeneration of the Nigerian youth and State’

plenish their dwindling acclaim. A smart movie producer attempted to cash in too on the national ridicule of a man and public servant while it lasted by hastily putting together and releasing a film titled, “My oga at the top.”

Nobody cared what sorrow or misery burdened Obafaye’s heart nor did anyone pause to imagine what shame and disillusionment his wife and kids are forced to relive and suffer daily long after the mockery had quieted to a murmur.

If the Nigerian citizenry, the youth particularly, could be so coordinated and methodical in their perpetration of such “good-natured” ridicule and hate, would it not do Nigeria immense good to have us unite in more coordinated and disciplined revolt against the oppression and cruelties of the incumbent ruling class?

We are past the novelty of coordinated mockery and moral outrage. The most powerful indignation we could express exceeds the pages of acerbic columns and social media; it subsists in latent courage and will we haven’t yet summoned the courage to express.

Until we mature in grace and learn to apply ourselves to passionate pursuits for the love of the good, our pains shall run amok where we seek ease and bliss, always. It’s a matter of choice; to which system of thought should we commit our lives to? Is there anything in our norms worth saving?

Shall we define the Nigerian dream in the language of humanity? Shall we begin to officiate for posterity’s sake? Shall we begin to affect the honesty and decency to which we pay lip service? Shall we choose the right candidates and vote them in at election time?

It’s about time we refined the subtleties that make the Nigerian dream the fantasy of thieves, looters and blinkered murderers.

As Aba’s Geometric Power takes off

By Romanus Uwa and the then President of Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Mr Joseph Daudu (SAN).

Orji’s government was never deterred with the kidnapping challenge then, rather it tackled the challenges headlong by providing all the needed logistics for the security agencies in the state to dislodge the rampaging kidnappers and restore normalcy in the area. This the security agents achieved when they gunned down the leader of the kidnapping gang in the area, Obioma Nwankwo aka Osisikankwu in a gun battle and flushed out his co-kidnappers in the state. That was how normalcy was restored to the area and the power company continued their project. A feat the few cynical political enemies of the state governor did not believe his government could overcome.

Obviously, if normalcy and security were not restored in the area by the state government then, there is no way the power plant could be executed and the idea of Aba returning to its lost glory would be a thing of the past by now. Ahead of the commissioning of the power plant, the state government has already completed the Osisioma NgwaGeometric road making access to the project site easy for the company workers and other communities around the area.

Fulfilling her promise during the rainy season last year, the state government had since the ending of last year commenced massive rehabilitation and reconstruction of many federal and state roads in Aba. The roads include Azikiwe road, Cemetery road, Milverton Avenue, Eziukwu/ Okigwe round about, Ama Ogbonnaya, Nwala by Faulks road to brass junction, linking Aba Owerri road, Ngwa road, Ohanku road, Eemelogu road (completed awaiting drainage) Ehere road, Omoba road, Umuola road, Ikot-Ekpene road from Opobo junction to Bata, Omuma by ACCN, Nwigwe

by Nwagba Avenue, geometric access road, and Aba-Port Harcourt road. The development is already boosting commercial activities in the city with massive influx of business projects ahead of the Geometric power plant take off.

Beside, it could be recalled that the present government in Abia State had last year partnered the Federal Government to evacuate power from the 132 Power station in Ohiya Umuahia. Since the commissioning of the project, there has

been steady power supply in Umuahia and its environs.

A situation that has made the state government’s rehabilitation of the Umuopara Regional Water Scheme a possibility, as the Water Scheme has since commenced operation, providing clean water for the residents of the state capital and its surrounding communities. Since then also, the medium and small-scale industries and several artisans in the state capital who were before now off business due to epileptic power supply have re-opened shops and business is booming.

With the take off the Geometric power plant any moment from now, Aba will surely become a haven of investment in the country as all the ailing industries in the commercial city will be revived and employment opportunities would created. It is a credit to the Orji administration that these achievements were being made possible at this point he is taking the state to the next level in the area of infrastructural developments, security and peaceful co-existence. With steady power supply in Umuahia, Aba and its environs, Abia state will go down in history as the first state in the country with steady power supply since the return of democracy in the country in 1999.

• Dr. Uwa, a medical practitioner wrote from Aba, Abia State

‘Most industries in the areas have gone into extinction owing to poor power supply system of the Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN) and so constructing of a model integrated power plant like the Aba plant was not only a good business initiative, but also good move to save the economy of the South-east region from total collapse’

THE NATION FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2013

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COMMENTS ‘Integrity is the life blood of democracy. Deceit is a poison in its veins.’ — Edward Kennedy RDINARILY, most Nigerians would have thought that the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN) had become history, but for the recent sudden attempt by Dr. Frederick Faseun, the Oodua People’s Congress (OPC) leader and his team, to revive it. It was coming 30 years after the military, through a coup de tat, compelled its death and that of other existing political parties on the nation’s political firmament. It was on December 31, 1983.

Incontrovertibly, the UPN was the dominant party in the West during the Second Republic and it tenaciously held on to the ideals of social democracy. The party’s manifesto comprises: Free education for all; Free medical treatment; Full employment and Integrated rural development, among others.

For the progressives, however, UPN is only dead in name. Reason: Ever since, the principles that the party stood for have in subsequent republics been the guiding spirit in the progressive camps. Even under the military, the Social Democratic Party (SDP) adopted the guiding principles of UPN as its manifesto and that in addition to the strong personality character of the late MKO Abiola, helped the party to win a truly pan-Nigeria presidential mandate on June 12, 1993.

When the Fourth Republic commenced in 1999, the Alliance for Democracy (AD) adopted the same principles of the late sage’s party. Then Action Congress (AC) and now Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) have done the same thing. So, it is just like the defunct UPN has continued its domination of southwest political turf under a different name.

But from the blues came the idea by some people, including Dr. Faseun, to revive the UPN. So, the move was met with curiosity because some pundits read motives to the idea of reviving the party, more so that this coming at a time when the south-west party, ACN is on the verge of forming an alliance with other major political parties across the country.

Questions were raised over the proprietary interest of promoters of the idea. Are they genuinely interested in promoting the ideals of the late sage under the current dispensation? Is there any external influence goading them on to secure undue mileage from the south west in the 2015 elections? Could it be that those averse to the move to re-awaken

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That is why God let go of them and let them do all these evil things, so that even their women turned against God’s natural plan for them and indulged in sex sin with each other. And the men, instead of having normal sex relationships with women, burned with lust for each other, men doing shameful things with other men, and, as a result, getting paid within their own souls with the penalty they so richly deserved. Romans Ch. 1 vs 26-27 (TLB) OE alas, the end has begun for humanity! America is capitulating and falling. Madmen are chasing away the specialists; deviants are finally winning the battle. Woe alas, the world stands on its head. Come June, the United States Supreme Court (USSC) will decide whether same-sex (SS) marriage could become the norm in the U.S. With about 58 per cent of Americans already loving SS union; with a serving president endorsing it; with bishops and archbishops proudly being gay and consecrating ‘strange’ wed locks, and some influential countries around the world already practicing it, the USSC would be hard put not to give its nod to it; if only to rest the matter once and for all.

THE FINAL FALL: Man has finally fallen from all grace. Across the ages, the battle between good and evil has raged.

Homosexuality, one of the greatest human deviant behaviors had been with man from Adam. Man had fought it, consigning it to the closet for a long time but it refuses to be still. For instance, just 40 years ago, homosexuality was listed as a mental disorder by the American Psychiatric Association. Today, it is considered a normal sexual behavior and a human right issue.

There are over 600,000 SS families in the U.S with about 115,000 of them raising children.

Today’s licentious world has convinced itself that deviant behavior is okay and acceptable; it has allowed maladjusted people to have their way. They have allowed people who need help, who need prayers and divine intervention to reclaim their checkered lives to take control of the driver’s seat of the human race. It is most aptly captured in the Yoruba saying: k’afi ibaje se ayo – to glory in rottenness. As humanity wallows in

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Steps without imprints

• Frederick Fasheun UPN are raising dust where none exists?

But Faseun has reportedly said: “UPN is an idea whose time has come. And no amount of blackmail will stop it.” This obviously, is in response to the allegations that the OPC headed by him had been awarded the contract of protecting oil pipelines in the southwest purportedly made by Lai Mohammed, chief scribe of the ACN. There should not have been any argument over the mens rea of OPC to collect the said contract from the President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration. Faseun himself confirmed that he spoke to the press on January 17, 2013 and in subsequent newspaper and television interviews, about the OPC contract proposal to Mr. President to secure pipeline against vandalisation in the southwest.

To Faseun, his organisation was only toeing the line of militants in the Niger Delta who secured pipeline protection contracts in

their areas. According to him, he has led the OPC to Abuja to defend the proposal and “equity and federal character dictate we should get a similar contract.” By this admission of intent, Faseun has unfortunately put the OPC on the same pedestal with Niger-Delta perceived ex-militants that are destructive and violence-driven.

It is doubtful if Faseun realised the import of the message he was conveying by trying, for pecuniary reasons disguised under the ambit of equity and federal character, to usurp the power given to security agencies by the 1999 Constitution (as amended). Perhaps he should be asked the following questions: Is OPC and the militants (whether ex or not), known to the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria? What does he believe in; the rule of law or that of the jungle?

The Jonathan administration applied the rule of the jungle by awarding pipelines protection contracts to the so-called notorious ex-militants that were ab initio, responsible for the vandalisation of oil pipelines. Can the president in all honesty say publicly that since the award of that immoral multi-billion-naira oil pipelines protection contract to militants, he has succeeded in stopping the incidents of pipeline vandalism? What he can possibly get is to create a fiefdom of lawless men and overnight illegal oil bunkerers in the OPC like we have among the militants now. But God forbid! Again, is Fasheun not aware of the fact that the contract has not stopped the criminality? Or was his push to get this contract at all cost his own idea of social justice…or his idea of even remedying the injustice of perceived marginalisation of his Yoruba people by the present administration? Let it be known to him that he can

EXPRESSO STEVE OSUJI

SMS O8181624757, email:steve.osuji@yahoo.com

Homosexuality, America and the end of humanity rottenness and extreme carnality, they are far removed from the divine and the glorious. If our permissive world accepts that it is a man’s right to sleep with another man, by the same token, shouldn’t it be his right and sexual preference to choose to sleep with his dog, goat, cow and chicken? And why should anybody worry when strange diseases begin to ravage the world and seek to exterminate humanity? If we accept lesbianism and homosexuality, we must by the same token allow kleptomania, sadism and other deviant behaviours as norm and individual right.

GOD, NATURAL ORDER AND SOVEREIGN WILL: Is any surprised that humanity has come to this sorry pass? For many decades, the Western world has repudiated God. It has civilized ‘beyond’ God. The West has bred generations of anti-Gods; denizens who never attended church, who read no scriptures; who have grown old soulless and never reading a word of the Bible. They have bred spiritual zombies, vacuous people who are infuriated by the very concept of deity or religious codes.

‘People of God must not despair but must remain in fervent prayers for the lost souls who have deviated from His natural order and are sold to the enemy’

The world is filled with carnal beings groomed on dollars, flesh and individual freedom. They are wise by themselves and are gods unto themselves; whatever feels good is okay, whatever their feeble minds can justify is right.

Sometimes one wonders which god is referred to on the American dollar bill which proclaims, “In God we trust”. It must be the god of dollars.

But God is God, his sovereign will is written and will be fulfilled in due time. Empires will rise and fall; superpowers will thrive and wane all according to his long-stated design. People of God must not despair but must remain in fervent prayers for the lost souls who have deviated from His natural order and are sold to the enemy.

Let us close with the exchange between God and Elijah as recorded in the letter of Apostle Paul to the Romans (Ch. 11 vs. 2-4) in which the prophet Elijah confronted God lamenting that the Jews had killed all the Prophets and torn down God’s alters. Elijah even claimed that he was the only prophet left in all the land who still loved God and he lived with the imminent danger of being killed. And God replied Elijah: “No, you are not the only one left. I have seven thousand others besides you who still love me and have not bowed down to idols!” God’s elect will stand in the gap and His sovereign will only, will be done.

not remedy injustice with crass infraction of and contempt for the constitution that his latest move for the pipeline contract has become.

In view of the desperation of the ruling People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and its non-performing leader, President Jonathan, to win elections in the south-west and retain power at the centre at all costs, it would not be outrageous to believe the insinuation in some quarters that the presidency would attempt to use the contract to lure Faseun’s OPC to create problems for the opposition parties in the region. The declaration by Faseun that he plans to revive UPN is just too inopportune and a confirmation of the widely held hint of Faseun’s Jonathan-mania, considered by many as not altruistic but a disguised attempt to despoil the name of the revered Obafemi Awolowo, for the unnecessary sake of promoting the unpopular President Jonathan’s re-election ambition in 2015.

The Yoruba should come out against any attempt to bring down the lofty name that Awolowo and his true disciples left for the UPN during their hey-days in politics.

Fasheun should be checked by that amiable OPC leader, Gani Adams, otherwise, the hard-earned shaky goodwill of the OPC will be frittered away just like that. This illegal and immoral contract is as bad as contemplating it by Faseun. And to think of using such alleged slush funds to revive and fund a party created by inimitable Awo is an insult to the sage in his grave and all free born Yoruba in general. The revival would not serve the interest of the Yoruba race. Perhaps, he should deploy his resources and energy to other areas of beneficial interests. I strongly believe that the move, to the discerning, is nothing but a step without imprints.

‘The declaration by Faseun that he plans to revive UPN is just too inopportune and a confirmation of the widely held hint of Faseun’s Jonathan-mania, considered by many as not altruistic but a disguised attempt to despoil the name of the revered Obafemi Awolowo, for the unnecessary sake of promoting the unpopular President Jonathan’s re-election ambition in 2015’ FEEDBACK: Re: Trouble with Things Fall Apart Mr. Osuji I have just read through your article on page 22 of The Nation (April 5, 2013).

I must admit that you are well aware of the ethnic politics that is ravaging us and your style of writing is living / alive. Please keep it up. Mrs. Fatoyinbo, 07030334456.

Steve I agree totally with you that the trouble with TFA is the trouble with Nigeria.

How could anyone equate Wole Soyinka with Chinua Achebe? Soyinka’s writings are esoteric while Achebe is lucid and devoid of jargons. If Achebe were to be a Yoruba, he would have been in the exalted horizon of literary pantheons. From Prof. S.O. Aghalino, UNILORIN, 08054896603 My dear EXPRESSO Steve, God bless you on your write-up on Things Fall Apart. Your ink will never run dry – 08033100848 Steve, on The Trouble with Things Fall Apart, I owe you a drink. From Ezeugo , Abuja, 08037003315 Steve, the Achebe vs. Soyinka controversy is unfortunate. With or without laurels, both are African literary icons. Achebe was a great novelist who treasured simplicity like the romantics. Essentially, WS is a great dramatist. He takes much interest in the literary approach of the post-modernists, the celebrators of obscurity. But WS had the Jero Plays and A Play of Giants presented in a simple language. A simple language does not diminish the greatness of a literary work, it enhances it. Each writer should be seen within the limits of his genre. From Kamaldeen, Ilorin.

Good work Steve. Talking about the Nobel, they seem to enjoy the writer who massages the Whiteman’s ego and WS played along and got the reward. Achebe had no time to massage anyone’s ego even for the Nobel.

For instance, while in Death and the King’s Horse man, the author warns the reader not to hold the White man responsible for the wrongs in the play, Achebe stated clearly that our past was not one long night of savagery from which Europeans acting on God’s behalf, delivered us. He demonstrated it twice in the case of the National Award. From Prof. Emeka Nwabueze, fmr Dean. Fac. Of Arts, UNN.

THE NATION FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2013

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THE NATION FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2013

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PEOPLE THE NATION

AN EIGHT-PAGE SECTION ON SOCIETY

The Alumni of the University of Lagos (UNILAG) Law Class 1980/83 gathered at the Hotel Presidential, Port Harcourt, Rivers State to celebrate their annual reunion. TAJUDEEN ADEBANJO writes

•From left: Justice Onibokun; Justice Karibi-Whyte; Prof. Adeyemi and Senator Bob

Destined to be unique T

HEY conceived the idea six years ago when they met overseas at a function.

Mr Mike Igbokwe (SAN) and Chief Godwin Obla thought it was time members of the University of Lagos (UNILAG) Law Class 1980/83 came together as a body and sold the idea to others. Their meeting at the International Bar Association (IBA) Conference in Singapore in 2007 has become a blessing of sorts to the set.

Since its coming, the set has been promoting the good of their alma mater and the welfare of members. Its objectives are to promote professional cooperation and collaboration among members; to facilitate the highest standards of professional conduct and support the Law Faculty of their alma mater, in any way possible to make it a world class faculty.

For members of the Class often referred to as “an unstoppable, unique and accomplished set,” March 22 to 24 will remain memorable.

They gathered at the Hotel Presidential in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital, to celebrate their sixth the annual reunion.

The set can boast of being among the best in the profession.

Members of the set has produced 20 high court judges, four professors, seven Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SANs), a senator, a member of the House of Representatives, four attorneys-general, three permanent secretaries and solicitors-general, army general, banks’ directors, top government officials, pastors, traditional rulers and Resident Electoral Commissioners, among others.

Their meeting in the Garden City attracted eminent personalities.

The group meets every year to cement the relationship which began over 33years ago.

The local organising committee headed by Hon Frank Okwor ensured that everybody had a good time.

The reunion started with a cocktail on March 22. On March 23, there was a business

meeting where issues affecting members and the alma mater were discussed. Awards for commitment were bestowed on some members.

The group also decided where subsequent reunions would hope. The next one hold in Abuja. It will be the turn of Las Vegas in the United States (US) in 2015; Abeokuta in Ogun State, 2016 and Benin, Edo State 2017.

The high point was the election of Justice Adedotun Onibokun as President; Mr. Omoruyi Omonuwa (SAN), Vice-president; and Mr. Jide Owootori, General Secretary, among others. Senator Effiong Bob retained his position as Chairman, Board of Trustees.

An elated Justice Onibokun thanked her ex-classmates for the confidence reposed in her.

“We won’t disappoint you. We will keep the flag flying as we throw open our doors for words of advice,” she said.

Business meeting over, the train moved to the massive premises of a member of the local organising committee, Mrs Onimim Jacks where they were treated to sumptuous meals. On Saturday evening, the Banquet Hall of the Hotel Presidential where the dinner was held became an Haven of many colours.

There was no dull moment as the Kikali Cultural Troupe added flavour to the evening.

Justice Adolphus Karibi-Whyte, who chaired the occasion, congratulated the alumni.

Justice Adolphous Karibi-Whyte, a pioneer lecturer of UNILAG in 1962, who quit teaching almost 40 years ago, praised the alumni for their comradeship.

“The Faculty of law, University of Lagos was a huge one but I admire the fraternity of a people to hold on. There is a lot of merit in what I call self-esteem and if you can keep it, you can justify it. UNILAG has survived and I am happy to be associated with you. As the only class that is organising this meeting

•Prof. Agbede (left) and Mr Wali

yearly, I implore you to sustain it because if other groups can emulate you, it will improve physical infrastructure and learning,” he said.

A former lecturer, Prof Emeritus Adedokun Adeyemi said the class needed no prophets to say it will be prosperous.

“During my interaction with you in your undergraduate days, I was able to assess the level of an individual and a group as a whole.

The comradeship had existed since your school days and we noted it. I have been in that faculty since 1967 and I am proud that you have made me proud. You are what you are today because of your commitment and dedication to work. You have not reached your pinnacles as I pray that you move from glory to glory. Your set was unique both at entry and exit. You have been the most prominent set in terms of contribution to the upliftment of the faculty,” Adeyemi said.

President, Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Mr Okey Wali, the special guest of honour, described the set as the genesis of the Law School Class of ’84, which now has a reunion.

“I want to congratulate your teachers for

being fulfilled as they have seen you excel,” Wali said.

Senator Bob said it was fulfilling to see his ex-classmates excel.

We met 33 years ago and we have been interacting as brothers and sisters. We continue to do this yearly, renewing our acquaintance, discussing the needs of the Faculty of Law of University of Lagos and the areas where we can contribute or uplift the faculty. That is the essence of this annual reunion and we have been doing that in the past six years,” he said.

Another former lecturer, Prof. Isaac Agbede said sitting among this unique set makes him fulfilled.

He said: “You came out and attained national and international reputation for yourself. I don’t think the sky will be the limit of your achievements. When a group becomes unstoppable, it is because it has distinguished itself as a product that is set to conquer the world like Harvard. That is what you have made yourself as products of UNILAG.” He urged the group to change its name to “Class of 1980-1983 Unique” because it is unstoppable.

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THE NATION FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2013

SOCIETY 54TH BIRTHDAY THANKSGIVING SERVICE FOR MRS FLORENCE AJIMOBI AT GOVERNMENT HOUSE CHAPEL, IBADAN

•From left: Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Hon. Moses Adeyemo; Oyo State Governor, Senator Abiola Ajimobi; daughter, Ajijola Ajimobi; the celebrator Mrs Florence Ajimobi; Mrs Bisola Kola Daisi and her husband Mr Kolapo Daisi

•From left: Mrs Yemisi Fakorede; Mrs Adijat Olajide and Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Akin Olajide

•Wife of Oyo State Deputy Governor, Mrs Janet Adeyemo

•From left: Senior Special Adviser on Political Matters, Alhaji Fatai Ibikunle and Oyo State Head service, Alhaji Tajudeen Aremu PHOTOS: FEMI ILESANMI

DESTINED TO BE UNIQUE

•Mr Emmanuel John and Mr Igbokwe (SAN)

•Mr Omoruyi Omonuwa (SAN) and his wife

•Mariam Olaniyi (left) and Prof. Oluyemisi Bamgbose

•From left: Hon. Edwards Ayo- Odugbesan; Justice Ojo; Mr Tayo Jegede (SAN) and Mr Vincent Uchendu

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THE NATION FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2013

SOCIETY

Celebrating ‘a man of character’ T HE atmosphere was serene.

There was Country music in the background, as guests

eagerly awaited the arrival of the man of the moment. Venue was the Oriental Restaurant, Victoria Island Lagos, where friends of Edo State Information and Orientation Commissioner Louis Odion organised a 40th birthday bash for him.

The atmosphere became charged when the Master of Ceremony (MC) announced his presence.

Many rose to catch a glimpse of him.

Odion was dressed in a black Agbada. It was an evening of encomiums from those who know the birthday ‘boy’. The celebrator shed tears as accolades were showered on him.

A band, the Manifest, thrilled the audience. Upcoming comedian ATM ensured that there was no dull moment. The MC read the citation of the celebrator. The birthday cake was cut and a toast made to the celebrator.

Managing Director, Leadership Azubuike Ishiekwene’s accolades on Odion were moving.

Odion broke down in tears, when Ishiekwene told what he called the ‘unknown Odion story.”

He said Odion was a friend who sticks closer than a brother, a family man and an astute professional.

Narrating how the celebrator helped salvage his relationship with a mutual friend of theirs, Ishiekwene said Odion is endowed with wisdom that is above his age, adding:“he is a young man with the heart of a lion.”

As a family man, Ishiekwene said Odion carries a lot of responsibilities gracefully. ‘’When we hang out as friends, you never know the burden that each of us carries because the clothes that we wear cover a lot.

The role that Louis plays in his own family is far beyond him but, he carries it with dignity. He is doing a lot and I keep praying that God will strengthen him and give him the resources to keep doing well,‘’ Ishiekwene said.

Former Health Secretary Prince Julius Adelusi-Adeluyi described Odion as a man of character, adding that he needed no special notice to come and celebrate with him.

Adelusi-Adeluyi said: “The voice of Nigeria is wholesomely represented here and that is how it should be because we are honouring one of your own. We are honouring a young man who has a very good name, born in a good month and has attained a unique age. ‘’His name, Louis, has a very proud pedigree. In French, it is given to describe someone as a famous warrior. Odion is very dear to me and I cherish him a lot because he is a man of character and it is only a man of character that can be trusted. He has been a good ambassador for the journalism profession.”

Lagos State Commissioner for the Environment Tunji Bello said his relationship with Odion dated back to 1989 when the Sunday Concord was established and strong hands were needed for the political desk. ‘’We discovered that there was this man who has been writing and every time he writes, it gets published. So, we decided to look for him and discovered it was a young boy inside Concord. He was with the advert department. So, I met the advert manager and told her she has to let Louis join us and that was how it started. ‘’When our newspaper was shut

Friends and associates of Edo State Information and Orientation Commissioner Louis Odion organised a reception to celebrate his 40th birthday at Oriental Restaurant, Victoria Island, Lagos.

PRECIOUS IGBONWELUNDU was there.

•Odion (third right) assisted by (from right) Mr Bello; Prince Adelusi-Adeluyi; Aremo Osoba; Hon Ikuforiji and Ishiekwene

•From left: Mr Ted Iwere; Mr and Mrs Omisore Abiodun

•Mr Adefaye (left) and Mr Tony Iyare

•Capt and Mrs Iriobe Victor down and other papers were wooing us to come, I was surprised that somebody like Odion who was still very young stayed with us. He was not willing to go while some others left until the paper was reopened. It was later shut within six months but Louis still stayed with us. ‘’So, we became very proud of him because we thought that someone like him should look for something else to do. Even when

•Mr Omatseye (left) and Alhaji Bello

•Mr Bamigbetan

PHOTOS: ISAAC AYODELE JIMOH

Abiola was in detention and things were very difficult for the paper, he stayed and we advised him to take up the offer with ThisDay,” Bello recalled.

Lagos State House of Assembly Speaker Adeyemi Ikuforiji, described Odion as a young successful fellow who knows his onions, adding that he is gifted.

Ikuforiji said: ‘’If these elders can come here to celebrate with Louis, and I know I am not the only elderly person who has

Louis as his friend. Even my own leader, the national leader of our great party, the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), is a friend to Louis and I am sure if not for his own very tight engagement, he would have personally been here with us. ‘’I do not know him at the professional level that the likes of Tunji Bello know him. But the much I know of Louis, I feel very grateful for the invitation that was extended to me to be here because truly, he is a man of character. ‘’The very day I met him, I knew he is a special breed. When you think of somebody like Louis, you will be happy that all hope is not lost. There is a generation coming that represents hope. Nigeria is in dire need of the help of ’men of the pen.”

Chairman, Edo State Internal Revenue Board Chief Oseni Elamah, also spoke glowingly about the celebrator. Odion, he said, conquered fear on the palace ground of the Oba of Benin, when he came out to make the threat to his life by a politician, a media issue, adding“and that was how he gained his freedom.

He described Odion as “Mr. Character and Integrity,” adding that he brought a professional touch into the Adams Oshiomhole administration with

•Mr Sola Oshunkeye which they have been able to achieve many things.

Overwhelmed by the outpouring of emotions, Odion said: ‘’I am honoured by such great love.

I do not even know what to say but I can tell you that I was fortunate to have a great boss in Tunji Bello, who aside mentoring me, gave me the opportunity to go back to school while working. ‘’If he did not give me such an opportunity, I would not be here today. It is not just about talent because there are so many talented writers out there who have not excelled. So, I remain grateful to Tunji Bello and my other friends, who believed in me as a young man.”

Former Ogun State Governor Olusegun Osoba; Chairman, Editorial Board of The Nation Sam Omatseye; Editor-in-Chief, Vanguard Gbenga Adefaye; Ekiti State governor’s Deputy Chief of Staff, Mojeed Jamiu; publisher, Global Excellence, Mayor Akinpelu; Special Adviser to Lagos governor, on Media and Publicity Hakeem Bello; General Manager, Mobil, Captain Victor Iriobe; Publisher, Encomium Kunle Bakare; Chairman, Ejigbo Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Kehinde Bamigbetan; Chairman, Bevista, Benny Obaze; Yomi Idowu; Ted Iwere; Omisore Abiodun and Ogbeni Goke Odeyinka were at the event.

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THE NATION FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2013

SOCIETY Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi and Access Bank Managing Director, Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede were honoured in Lagos last Saturday by Vanguard. Amaechi is the paper’s Personality of the Year; Aig-Imoukhuede, the runner-up. TAJUDEEN ADEBANJO reports.

Men diligent in their jobs E

VERTHING about the event was well planned. From the cameramen on the red carpet to the exotic design of the exquisite hall, everything was in shipshape.

The setting inside the hall was breathtaking. It met the taste of the calibre of guests.

At the event were finest of the political class and the captains of industry.

A newspaper was honouring two men who have excelled in their fields.

Step in Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, Rivers State Governor, who isVanguard Personality of the Year winner; and Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, Access Bank Group Managing Director, runner-up.

They were the cynosure of all eyes last Saturday at the Expo Centre of Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos.

Amaechi was accompanied by his Ekiti State counterpart, Dr Kayode Fayemi. The night took off on a musical note with a performance by Team Quba.

Shortly after, Aig-Imoukhuede arrived with his wife and children.

Holy Mallam and Gordons, comedians who emceed the event, were in their element, dishing out ribcracking jokes.

Many guests made fashion statements with their resource control hats.

Timi Dakolo set the hall rolling with the recitation of the national anthem. The anthem was on when House of Representatives Speaker Aminu Tambuwal and the principal guest, Gen Ibrahim Babangida, arrived. Gen Babangida chaired the occasion.

Vanguard Publisher, Sir Sam Amuka-Pemu, while delivering the welcome address, extolled Gen Babangida.

According to him, it was just a phone call that got the gap-toothed General to chair the function.

Amuka-Pemu also thanked Tambuwal who he described as Peoples’ Speaker. He beckoned on the General Manager and Editor -inChief of Vanguard, Mr. Gbenga Adefaye, to make a more formal welcome address on behalf of the company.

In his speech, Babaginda showered encomiums on Amuka-Pemu who he described as "my good friend, inlaw and compatriot."

The former military president said: "Looking back at those good old days like a series of snapshots in an album, with different phases and faces in our journey through life, one cannot but thank God for the successes we have recorded in our various undertakings, I make bold to say that Uncle Sam is that, uncommon Nigerian who understands the nexus between media and power, and the value and virtue of good friendship. I deeply cherish this association.

“Despite the fact that one of my Military Administrators briefly suspended Vanguard in 1990, it did not strain my relationship with Uncle Sam. We have trudged on like two great Nigerians who understand the dynamics of political power and the vanity of human nature.”

Babangida congratulated Amaechi and Aig-Imoukhuede.

“To me, the two gentlemen repre-

•From left: Governor Amaechi; General Babangida; Sir Amuka-Pemu; Hon Tambuwal and Mr Aig-Imoukhuede

•From left: Alhaji Ismaila Isa; Chief Osoba and Prof Amos Utuama

•From left: Prince Adetokunbo Sijuwade; King GNK Giininwa and Eze Robinson Robinson

•Hon Maruf Akinderu-Fatai (right) and Hon Opeyemi Bamidele

•Governor Fayemi

•Erelu Abiola Dosunmu (left) and Hon Abike Dabiri-Erewa

•From left: Mr Tarek Saidi; Mr Hussein Fawaz and Hassan Fawaz PHOTOS: SOLOMON ADEOLA

sent the normative order of a new generation leadership orientation that is anchored on love for country, service delivery and patriotism. In fact, given their humanity, there is nothing extra-ordinary about their creation but there is something extra-ordinary about their leadership emanations. For example, Governor Amaechi is not just a Governor in whom I am well pleased, but one that has been able to make a bold impression about promise and performance in a Nigerian political space that is grappling with challenges of development and good

for Vanguard to have outlived most of the banks, underlined the vision, capacity and tenacity of the leadership of Vanguard Media Limited," he said.

Yemi Sax performed for a while before IBB as Babangida is fondly called mounted the podium again to present Personality of the Year award to Governor Amaechi. IBB, Tambuwal, Amaechi, AigImoukhuede and Amuka-Pemu took a group photograph before Governor Amaechi gave his acceptance speech.

governance," he said.

His speech drew a standing ovation.

Afterwards, Dakolo, winner of the maiden edition of Nigerian Idol thrilled the gathering.

Tambuwal presented the runner-up award to Aig-Imoukhuede who came on the stage with his family.

He dedicated the award to his wife.

According to Aig-Imoukhuede, there are only two banks in Nigeria that are older than Vanguard, First Bank and UBA. "All the great deeds you ascribe to bankers, Uncle Sam has surpassed;

•Mrs Patricia Arawore

Amaechi dressed in the regalia of the Ikwere, people of Rivers State, dedicated the award to the team working with him and the people of Rivers State.

The governor said he felt the absence of his wife, given the fact that Mrs. Aig-Imoukhuede was present.

Amaechi, who came with a strong delegation from Rivers State said he paid little attention to awards in the past because he thought he was doing his job.

Omawumi was later invited to the stage to entertain the gathering.

THE NATION FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2013

29

Brandnews

NB unveils promo STAR Lager beer produced by Nigerian Breweries Plc has unveiled a promo with the theme Star League – Text & Play.

Speaking at the briefing in Lagos, Mr Walter Drenth, Marketing Director, Nigerian Breweries Plc, said: “Over the years, Star Lager Beer has risen to become the number one favourite beer (Lager and Stout) in Nigeria. As the undisputed Lager market leader (exit 2012), Star is, undoubtedly, the biggest beer brand in Nigeria. The brand has continued to keep its consumers actively engaged all-year round through its exciting consumer engagement platforms that cut through music, football and consumer promotions.”

He said Star upgraded its packaging (Staniol and new body and back label) in July last year to re-assure consumers of its premium quality and modern feel. The packaging upgrade saw the introduction of new brand communication and the launch of a new brand pay-off based on the Star brand story: Shine On. Said Drenth: “It is an innovative platform where consumers would be actively engaged throughout the duration of the promotion, while they stand the chance to win exciting prizes in the process. It is unique, interesting and different. The Star League-Text & Play will run from April 2 to May 31.

• From left: Drenth; Brand Manager Star, Omotunde Adenusi and Senior Brand Manager, Star, Itah Bassey at the event.

Diamond Bank to enhance service delivery in Delta

D

IAMOND Bank Plc has hosted a customer forum for its customers in Delta State. The event was held at the Chevron Club in Warri, Delta State.

Executive Director, Regional Businesses, South Directorate, Diamond Bank Plc, Mr Victor Ezenwoko stated that the job of the bank is service and if one is not being serviced well, the bank has failed in its responsibility.

“Our job is service. Banking is like the job of an insurance agent.

If one is not doing well and fails to listen or take corrections one has failed in his responsibility. We might be working and think we are doing well and that our customers are happy while that is not

Stories by Raji Rotimi Solomon

the case. We are here today because without our customers we will be nowhere. Some have been with us from the get-go and their businesses have grown and their children are grown also and they are still with us. We are here to ask how we have served you and how we can do better,” Ezenwoko said.

ATM Service Supervisor, Mr Chukwudi Ibeh spoke on the importance of cashless banking as it has been embraced in Lagos State stating that it is of great importance and he further encouraged Deltans to embrace the culture.

Group Head, Technology and Business Solutions, Mr. Edafe Omojughare highlighted the benefits of having a cashless Nigeria.

He said: “We have the infrastructure in place and I can assure you that your online transactions are safe with Diamond Bank. You can do immediate transfers. You can download the Diamond Mobile banking application on your smartphone and even transfer foreign currencies.”

Head, Customer Experience, Diamond Bank Plc, Mrs. Shirley Uyakonwu said: “Alongside hosting forums like this, there are other opportunities that allow for feedback from you. Customers may choose to complain by telephone, in person or in writing. We have the toll-free phones in our banking halls and ATM points where you can call for complaints or enquiries. There are people by the phones waiting for you to call”.

BATN supports BusinessDay’s conference

T

HIS year’s Business Day’s Annual Giving Back Conference themed: Investing in the Environment – Alternative Sources of Energy for sustainable Future with sponsorship considerations from British American Tobacco Company, (BATN) was held at the Civic Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos on Tuesday.

Discussions centered on sources of energy that would improve the economy, benefit the poor without harming the environment. The crux of the discussion was BATN’s presentation, tagged: Protecting the Poor and Vulnerable from the Effects of Climatic Change.

According to Head, Corporate Affairs, BATN, West Africa Area, Oluwasoro-midayo George, this year’s discussion is imperative “because increased economic growth comes with adverse impact on the environment with the children, women, the poor, the elderly, and the sick as most vulnerable in communities.”

This, she revealedm has seen her company focus its giving back to society efforts on agriculture to empower the people with knowledge that can take them out of poverty and equip them to protect their environment while engaging in economic activities. “Agriculture is

a sure way of alleviating poverty in Nigeria, employing over 70 per cent of the population and contributing over 10 per cent of the gross domestic product, so any action that strengthens that sector, is bound to impact on the population positively,” she said.

The problem of poverty is core and must be strategically tackled for Nigeria to make the required progress. “We focus on sustainable agricultural practices working with experts and government to apply sustainable systems of least adverse environmental impact while ensuring economic growth and wellbeing of the communities.”

Nigeria to host Xperiential marketing conference ALL is set for the maiden edition of XMC, the Xperiential Marketing Conference planned for Lagos, Nigeria in June.

Redbutton International, the conveyers of XMC 2013 birthed this conference out of a need to further empower marketing executives with strategies that not only deliver their brand message, but immersive, powerful experiences that forge connections and evoke the right emotions in consumers.

Across the world, marketers understand that there is a need to infuse the NEW. Strategies are being reinforced. Objectives are being modified and perfected. Campaigns are being integrated. And live experiences are getting refined and reinvented. This serves as the primary basis for having the 2013 Xperiential Marketing Conference The 2013 Maiden edition is themed “Experiential Marketing Paradigm; What Today Is Saying about Tomorrow”.

The event will hold on June 28 and 29 at The Civic Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos from 8.00am – 5.00pm daily.

The conference, which is expected to become the largest yearly experiential marketing conference and exhibition in Africa, inviting international participants from America, Europe and Asia, will attract strong opinion and key influencers in the marketing communications industry like company directors, CEOs, marketing managers, brand and communications managers, account directors alongside entrepreneurs and SMEs.

Bain’s Cape Mountain Whisky is world’s best SOUTH Africa’s first single grain whisky, Bain’s Cape Mountain Whisky, has been voted the World’s Best Grain Whisky at the yearly Whisky Magazine’s World Whisky Awards (WWA) in London.

Andy Watts, master distiller of Bain’s Cape Mountain Whisky, said the win was overwhelming news for the brand and South Africa.

Bain’s Cape Mountain Whisky became the first South African whisky to be awarded this coveted accolade, ahead of those from traditional whisky-producing countries, such as Ireland, Scotland and the United States. The whiskies were assessed blind, based on three tasting rounds, by an independent panel of judges that included some of the foremost international whisky palates.

Distiller of Bain’s Cape Mountain Whisky, Jeff Green, said: “This isn’t just a win for Bain’s Cape Mountain Whisky but for South African whiskymaking.

“Bain’s Cape Mountain Whisky, launched in 2009, was created to express the extraordinary properties of South Africa’s very best homegrown grains, fermented and distilled locally. With a distinctive South African taste profile, the maize is the same as that which was imported into Scotland up until the mid 1980s to make Scotch whisky.

“The whisky is proudly South African in profile. By taking the World’s Best Grain Whisky title we have amply demonstrated that South Africa can make exceptional whiskies. The 2013 title follows last year’s win by Three Ships 5 Year Old of the WWA’s World’s Best Blended Whisky, puts South Africa as a whisky producing country, squarely on the map.”

Entries open to Africa, Middle East agencies

• From left: Brand Operation Integration Manager, P&G Nigeria, Titilola Adetunji; Celebrity Endorser, Dr Sid Esiri; Brand Manager, P & G Nigeria, Ngozi Coker; and Regulatory and Technical Relations Manager, Adebusola Opanubi, during the World Oral Health Day organised by Oral B in Lagos.

ONCE again entries are open for the region’s most prestigious advertising and brand communication awards. Works produced in Africa and the Middle East are eligible for entry into the Loeries.

The entry deadline is May 31, 2013 and all work must be produced between June 1, 2012 to May 31, this year.

DDB Mozambique and Squad Digital are also positioned for first and second place in the official rankings for agencies from Africa and the Middle East. On being top of the rankings, Cristiana Oliveira, Strategic Planner Director at DDB Mozambique says: “Being first place means we are on the right track to become a reference in our region, if not one of the most creative agencies in Africa. Winning Loeries has a huge impact for us, because it puts us on the map not only for international but also regional clients.”

Managing Director, Squad Digital, Guarav Singh said: “Squad is a young agency, but has high aspirations to become a thought leader in the digital marketing communication space. Prestigious awards like Loeries are very important for agencies, it not only puts credibility to the agencies credentials but also helps to attract and retain talent.”

The Africa and Middle East category is open for entries in communication design; PR communication campaigns; digital and interactive communication; live events; print communication, outdoor and collateral media; radio; TV, Video and Film; and integrated campaigns.

THE NATION FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2013

30

O

Chicken Republic refreshes brand equity with innovation

WNERS of hospitality brands who are worth their salt know that healthy tasty meals, nice ambience and excellent customer relations are very important ingredients that will drive traffic to their outlets and make customers prefer them any time. Thus, forward-looking service providers are not known to joke with being continuously innovative on how best they can serve and satisfy their patrons in order to make them come back again and again.

Aligned to the need to strengthen positive and maximum leisure experience for lovers of good food, Chicken Republic, a world-class modern African Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) has introduced its variant of crispy chicken named Spicy Crunch™ as well as the commencement of the revamp of its restaurants in a bid to offer its customers extraordinary dining experience.

The latest initiatives, according to the management of Chicken Republic, are part of a global market repositioning strategy by the leading restaurant which has presence in 14 Nigerian cities and Ghana. Established in 2004, the world-class chicken QSR has 65 stores in the two countries.

Explaining the rationale for the initiatives, the Head of Marketing and Public Relations, Chicken Republic, Mrs. Susan Rotimi, told journalists during the experiential soft launch of Spicy Crunch at the revamped Bode Thomas outlet in Surulere, Lagos, that the steps were part of the company’s commitment to help customers get more out of life. The Marina and Jibowu outlets have also been revamped while work is in progress at the other restaurants across Nigeria and Ghana.

According to her, the new variant with rice, which is being offered at a promo price of N600 till May 28, is seasoned to perfection with Chicken Republic’s signature West African spices.

“Chicken Republic is committed to developing best-in-class ambience that offers customers more than an eating experience. This is the way we are living our commitment to helping our customers get more out of life,” she said.

Mrs Rotimi explained that the new product offering was part of the ongoing market repositioning strategy aimed at serving the consumers better. ‘‘In our response to consumer need based on resaerch, there is a big demand for crispy chicken that is not oily and moist.

Crispy chicken is a product that Nigerians love but they complained about what is available out there. So, we decided to give them something they really love to have, and the testimony has been fantastic. Again, another testimony about our new product offering is the authentic fresh West African spices that we use and the fact that we understand the African palate; and our customers love us for that. This is what Spicy Crunch is all about,’’ she said.

On the revamp of the outlets, the Head of Marketing and PR said the initiative was in

demonstration of the visionary and market leadership of the Chicken Republic brand, assuring that the company will continue to offer soulful, African spiced chicken delivered in a world-class modern environment. ‘‘We realise the importance of constantly raising quality and standards to improve customer satisfaction,” she said.

Mrs Rotimi said the company has recorded a 70 per cent increase in sales year-on-year of revamped stores, a development which is said to be the result of the fresh modern ambience the revamped restaurants offer. She stated that the company is well focused in its commitment to the delivery of extraordinary customer satisfaction premised on quality product, product innovation and consistency.

Also speaking, the Chief Operations Officer, Mr Kofi Abunu stated that the revamp of the outlets and the introduction of the Spicy Crunch initiatives were among several initiatives being implemented by the company to strenghten the Chicken Republic brand in order to deliver more value and benefits to the consumers so that they could get more out of life.

According to him, the company in acknowledgement of the consumer as king, has continued to place the consumers at the centre of everything the company is doing, even as he assured that the vision of Chicken Republic was to make life better for the customers and other stakeholders alike by being a vibrant brand that delivers value at all times. ‘‘We are always committed to doing our best so that we continuosuly offer the best to our customers in terms of quality offerings. Our motto is ‘quality, kindness and value’, and it is on these pillars that our operation is premised. This new product offering and the revamp of our outlets, therefore, represent another step forward in our strive for excellence through innovative brand evolution,’’ Abunu said.

“Product variety is a key driver of delivering extraordinary satisfaction to our customers. Our guests love our soulfully spiced chicken and anything we introduce that builds on our authentic West African spiced chicken seems to be a hit, so we’re introducing Spicy Crunch to further reinforce our brand as a destination for wholesome, sizzling meals delivered in a fresh modern restaurant environement”.

He stated that Chicken Republic remains optimistic about its operations and confident that the investment made in key areas of its business will deliver strong competitive edge and position the brand for an upward growth in the QSR sector.

A customer, Mr Frank Afam, praised the new initiatives by the management of Chicken Republic, saying the marketing repositioning strategy would go a long way in builidng brand loyalty. He said he has made the QSR his number one choice over the years because of the authentic fresh African spices for which Chicken Republic offerings are renowned.

•From right: Operations Manager, Chicken Republic, Oye Idowu; Mrs Rotimi; Abunu and Assistant Manager, Omolabake Afuwape, during the experimental soft launch of Spicy Crunch in Lagos.

B

RANDS need social media. Social media - web and mobile-based technologies such as Facebook, Twitter, Tumbler, LinkedIn and BBM and others that readily turn any message into interactive dialogue among individuals in a community, organisation or a country - does not need brands. On the contrary, brands need social media.

According to recent reports, this year, social media is one of the most powerful news and updates sources. Because of this and similar reports, brands desperately need social media to be successful, to be social media savvy, to connect with grassroots, to sell their goods, and to be successful.

Brand managers have these reports and they do understand that, in the 21st century where technology has blurred marketing boundaries, no brand succeeds on its own. In addition to the traditional media, brands need the efficacious power of social media.

Reason: brands jostle for the attention of several millions of individuals who populate the social media scene. Brands need the attention and wallets of these people, as such; brand custodians would play all games, through different marketing gimmicks, to grab their targets.

Some of these games include asking you to download free cool logo and use it as a screen saver, new singles of a popular musician; or if that fails to deliver the number, you are enticed to record and upload your own music on a particular site to win a particular gift, or get opportunity to mingle, giggle and wriggle. “Catch the fun while it lasts!” The brands scream in ecstasy. That is the catch.

Guess what, the target, mostly youths, believe this sweet-sounding words hook, line and sinker. Who wins? It is not the target.

The brands win. That is why the brands keep going back to the social media space to recruit ardent fans, raving fans to fan the embers of their brands. Do not blame them.

Much of the space on social media is free.

However, that is the main reason brands need the social media. No, it is not only that, some brands have limitless pocket.

I think the bottomless pocket of some of these brands (and the social juice they can get) attracts them to social media circle. This (bottomless pocket) gives brands opportunity to acquire social media muscle and bask in the social juice it brings.

This used to be the exclusive preserves of the traditional media [newspaper, magazines, television and radio], but not any more, not any more, not any more. If a campaign breaks and it does not hit your Facebook page, it does not hit your Twitter handle, it does not hit your BBM anonymously, such campaign has not gone viral. If it has not gone viral, it has not succeeded. If it has not succeeded, it has failed.

Ask a social media-savvy brand manager.

That is the power of social media platform.

In addition to this is the ability to connect with the target at an emotional level and hit their passion points and create a hero out of a zero; generate emotion and keep it in motion, create meaningful content and be in contact, engineer powerful engagement and keep the arrangement, sustain interest and build large followers.

If you look at it with 20/20 eyesight, it is clear that social media allows the brands to set up infrastructure for their target and make the connection that makes the biggest difference (like the ones described above. I am sure you must have participated in one or two social media games).

The birth of BlackBerry, different web-based

Hook, line and social media applications platform and social sites have provided canvasses brands to tell their stories, to promote their ideas and be all to all people.

That is why brands would always be grateful to social media dais.

As social software that mediates human and brands communication, social media is the only platform that brands can flaunt their social juice, as it gives brands relevance, responsibility and recall, all year round, twenty-fourseven. Therefore, if a platform stays and sleeps with you that long, you are wont to believe everything it says hook, line and social media.

As Internet-based applications that allow the creation and exchange of user-generated content, social media also packs extreme believability. This is where Cynthia Osokogu comes in. Cynthia made that same mistake of believing the content of her BBM. Cynthia was a victim of social media mistrust. Save the gory details.

You remember her. Great. My job is not to regurgitate the ordeal she went through but to save a soul, by preventing a reoccurrence.

That Cynthia paid the ultimate price does not mean the social media platform is evil.

It is just prove that majority of social media fans are gullible. They would believe every twit. They would believe every ping. They would believe every contact. That makes them vulnerable to physical, viral and fraudulent attacks.

Kindly note, social media platform is a social gathering of friends and acquaintances.

Invariably, this indicates that you could meet genuine friends, strike legitimate business deal or find your bride while chatting in some professional chat rooms. On the other hand, social media space can be likened to clubbing.

In a restaurant, you could make new friends that would last a lifetime, meet a dupe, or be swindled by a woman who happens to be smarter than you are! Does that make clubbing evil? Answer to that question is not available on this page.

What you would get here is this: brands look for critical mass to strike the numbers, the critical mass are available on social media space, and brand custodians would do all to lick those numbers. If you have a Twitter handle, Facebook page, BBM or LinkedIn profile, look out. If the message it too good to be true, and you cannot authenticate the source, it is too good. Delete it. Ignore it. Watch who you follow. Follow whom you watch. As my mother would say, keep to well-lit streets after dark.

Be careful with your BBM. Know your pings.

This is not a revelation. It is a reminder. In her wildest dream, Cynthia would never think those pings are death messengers. She was innocent. She was blameless. However, she has offered a great lesson on how not to deal with BBM contacts: Not every contact should be contacted. Not every contact has a contact address. Be wary of contact who insists on physical contact, unless you are sure.

If you are not sure, delete the contact.

Several social media contacts hide under aliases. Aliases are guises. Guises are masks.

Masks hide dirt. Dirt tells bad story. Bad story is bad. Ask questions. Probe aliases. Be social media-wise. Have fun. Life is short. Do not shorten it further. Remember Cynthia.

For social media addicts, happy pinging. For Cynthia, adieu.

‘Guess what, the target, mostly youths, believe this sweet-sounding words hook, line and sinker. Who wins? It is not the target. The brands win. That is why the brands keep going back to the social media space to recruit ardent fans, raving fans to fan the embers of their brands. Do not blame them. Much of the space on social media is free. However, that is the main reason brands need the social media. No, it is not only that, some brands have limitless pocket’

*Editor - Wale Alabi *Consulting Editors - Rarzack Olaegbe, Sola Fanawopo * Correspondent-Jimi David * Business Development - Kenny Hussain * Legal Adviser - Olasupo Osewa & Co Brandweek is powered by Brandz Republic Consulting and published every Friday in THE NATION newspaper.

All correspondence to the editor - 0808.247.7806, 0805.618.0040, e-mail: korede2000@gmail.com © All rights reserved.

SHOPPING

31

THE NATION

e-mail: shoppingthenation@hotmail.com

Website:- http://www.thenationonlineng.net

FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2013

Shopping@thenationonlineng.net

The changing taste of shoppers Gone are the days when shoppers sacrificed quality for low prices.

Though they still try to save some cash, they are more interested in getting value for their money today, writes TONIA’DIYAN

•Shoppers at Adeniran Ogunsanya shopping mall

The market fire could not kill Page 32

•STORY ON PAGE 32

‘FLP products are 100% NAFDAC compliant’ Page 34

Washable table mats for chic, trendy dining Page 34

THE NATION FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2013

32

SHOPPING

The changing taste of shoppers A

S much as Nigerians would go for products with low prices, good quality and new innovations have become their main considerations these days. This trend, it appears, is attributable to convincing sales/promotions, well-stocked shelves and highquality fresh products available. Therefore, to boost sales as well as encourage shoppers, some retail shops launch attractive sales promos frequently.

Such actions, it was learnt, have worked for many shops over the years.

Mrs Modupe Shopeju, owner of Gbagada, Lagos-based Delightsome Gifts Concepts which has all kinds of home and office gadgets said: “Promotional offers are aimed at attracting more customers and enhance sales. There are misconceptions that when discounts are offered by shops, such shops stock inferior products, that is why they sell at cheap rates just to do away with the so called inferior products. It is not true.”

While factors relating to good quality, innovations and low prices are important determinants of where to shop and what to buy, retailers and manufacturers who offer good value, either through sales and promotions or via largereconomy packaging, stand to gain the most from hard-income-earning consumers in a tough economy like Nigeria.

That is why discount offers from some shops mean a lot to an average shopper.

Mr Todd Hale of Consumer & Shopper Insights, in a television interview, recently, said: “For the economically challenged, low prices are a must, but convenience may trump low prices for some, while travelling and from discount retailers, it is a challenge.

“For some shoppers, the value obtained from one-stop shopping can save them time and money. Therefore, manufacturers and retailers need to place a greater focus on shoppers’ benefits to achieve the differences that go beyond prices.”

Though price is a differentiator in any economy, store brand products, he said, must deliver a level of quality proportionate to their price points.

“Quality, at an affordable price, is what gets consumers to buy and repeat.

If quality and value are lacking, then consumers will buy fewer store brands.”

People no longer fancy cheap products, they prefer to buy products based on their quality and the benefits such products have to offer. In the market today, there seems to be more new products than the old ones, especially for consumables like canned foods which also comes in sachet leaving the shopper with choices to make.

When The Nation Shopping went round some of the malls in Ikeja and Surulere, a large number of shoppers indicated they prefer quality and innovation over low price. Some others said they prefer innovation at low prices, and only a few number of them said they prefer very low price not minding the value of the product.

Majority believe quality is not to be compromised; therefore while manufacturers are producing slightly low quality products, they should not forget to keep prices low as it is the least favoured option among consumers because raising prices is a strategy that consumers do not embrace. Consumers typically maintain reference prices for products based on prices they have seen or paid in the past.

A shopper, Mr Samuel Emenike prefers quality over low price. “Low price could be deceptive; I am usually not deceived when I want to purchase an item. I make up my mind to go for quality so I can be sure of having value for my money.”

Another shopper, Mr Chijioke Nwabueze was of the view that good quality and innovation is better than low price if a person wants the best from a product. “The life span of a quality product is longer than a cheap inferior product. You will only be buying what you need at once instead of buying the same thing twice because it is cheap.”

• Shoppers at Ikeja city mall

• Shoppers in a Perfume section at the Palms

Some people think the newly introduced products are either not trusted or they simply do not allow for patronage of the existing ones. May be because some people who will prefer to buy the newly introduced ones will want to explore them.

According to Mrs. Funke Bamgbose, a shop owner at Adeniran Ogunsanya Shopping mall, “Bringing new innovation into the market sometimes does not allow the sale of old products. But if the newly introduced product is of a higher price than the already existing ones, then I am sure of selling my existing products. Therefore, new innovations should be accompanied by low price, as

it is generally known that low price is the driver of any shopper,” she said Mrs Nsofor Chinwe prefers existing products. To her, existing products are better trusted “I have come to trust existing products over the years. I can only be lured to buying newly introduced products if I can get a testimony from someone else about that product. Most times when I go shopping, I don’t check out new products, I simply pick the old names I am used to.

Some shoppers are of the view that new innovations of products should be given a discount instead of adding price. So that people can be used to it or that they can be used to create a platform of intro-

‘For some shoppers, the value obtained from one-stop shopping can save them time and money. Therefore, manufacturers and retailers need to place a greater focus on shoppers’ benefits to achieve the differences that go beyond prices’

ducing it to people.

According to a shopper Mr Stanley Omokaro, discount offers should be attached to innovations so that shoppers can easily accept them when they are newly introduced into the market. “ It is only common with shoppers to want to buy new products at cheap rates. Some people would refuse to pay more or same amount as for an existing product for a newly introduced product.”

Mr Odundayo Agboola is an economist; he prefers innovation to low price stating that the country’s poor economic condition is a major challenge to innovations. “My question is, will these innovations stay? Is our economy encouraging such? Modernism has been brought into production and now we get newly introduced good items. I am of the belief that the newer a product, the better it is. Sometimes I get tired of the old product because some of them have reduced in quality and quantity. Therefore, I look forward to new products from time to time,” he said.

33

THE NATION FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2013

SHOPPING

• Displaced traders discussing their ordeal

• One of the burnt shops

The market fire could not kill

The fire at Alade market in Ikeja did not disrupt trading.

Many shoppers were found in the market after the fire.

TONIA ‘DIYAN reports.

O

VER the past few months it has become normal in Lagos to hear that buildings in public places, especially markets have been burnt. The rate at which this fire occur is becoming worrisome and it seems there is no end to such fire incidents.

Each of these fires leaves in its trace deaths and destroyed lives. For those who hear in the news, you may not understand what it feels like to build from scratch, only to be sent back to the scratch again by one misfortune.

Though when The nation Shopping visited the market after the sad incident, it was discovered that shoppers as well as majority of the traders were not affected. Only a few shops within the premises got burnt. These shops stocked mainly clothing for all ages, lace and jewelries, they are ten in number.

A shopper Mrs Aina Adeoti was seen buying toiletries after she left the shops of the bureau de change malams who were all around the market, from the entrance to welcome shoppers as they walked in. According to her, “I didn’t believe this is the market that was spoken about in the news. I was expecting to see a picture like that of the ketu plank market which burnt down completely. This section where I am shopping from is not affected, traders here are having a filled day making sales and going about

their usual daily activities.”

Another trader Mr Calistus Okoye who would have loved to buy clothes for his children got disappointed when he found out that one of his customers is affected. However, he was left with no choice but to visit another shop which sells the same item. “I am happy I got what I wanted, though my customer is one of the fire victim, but Alade market known for what it is, is a place where one can be sure of getting desired items always” The displaced traders were found sitting helplessly in front of the unaffected shops discussing their ordeal. One of them known as Mrs Theresa Maduka said she is waiting for the next line of action. “I want to see what the market authority and the Lagos state government will do for me; I know how much I have lost in this fire. I still don’t understand why some few shops will get burnt in this very big market?

Mrs Sulia Aminu is also one of the displaced traders who said she was short of words and confused as she is the bread winner of her family. “I sustain my family; my husband lost his job six months ago. As I speak now my family is looking up to me for their daily bread. What do I do now and where do I go from here? My entire fortune has gone down the drain.”

A sympathizer, also one of the shop’s

• Shoppers at a section of the market. owner who was lucky not to be in the section that was raced down by the fire Mrs Naomi Osaghae, a plane crash victim of EAS 2002, gwamasa, kano said she is thankful to God for sparing her life and shop from the horrible incident. “I have always prayed to God not be a victim of any terrible incident since God saved my life from a plane crash thirteen years ago. I was here on Sunday after church service to chill my drinks for sale on Monday, I left the market at exactly 6pm, only to come here on Monday morning and found out that a section has been burnt down completely. It is so sad and I pray such will not happen again.”

As part of the measures to stop a reoccurrence of such horrible incident, the electricity supply of the entire market has been temporarily switched off pending the time things will become normal, as it was noticed that the fire was caused by an electrically surge. However the market executive has agreed to put it on by weekend to help them make necessary repairs and changes.

The leader of the market, Mrs Elizabeth Adenuga has also appealed to the government to rehabilitate the damaged portion on time to allow the traders return to the market.

Isopako market in Itire, Lagos is known for stocking building materials. Traders are complaining about lack of patronage. People, they say, no longer buy building materials but are only renovating their houses.They blame the prevailing economic crisis for this development. TAIBAT IDOWU reports

I

SOPAKO , a market that stock mainly plank and building materials had some of the traders speak with The Nation shopping blaming the low sale situation in the market on the poor state of the country’s economy. A trader Mr Babajide Owolabi is a nail seller, he said, “we are only here because we want to leave our homes in the morning and go to our places of work, we are actually not making sales. This democracy is not for everybody it is only meant for the rich people. People are not building houses any more, they are only renovating because of the economic situation we are presently facing in this country.”

Mrs. Adejoke Shuaibu is a paint seller who thanked God for the peaceful state of the market. Though we are not making sales as at now, we only come here so that we will have something to eat at the end of the day, no matter how little, market is not really moving.”

She said.

The market which stocks mainly building materials, such as Planks, Pans, Nails, Wire, topboard, Pecks, and Flat- metals also have them

Hit by hard times in various prices, names, quality and functions.

The planks have names like; Otara, Maoganic, Iroko, Akala, Mazonia, Ipin, Poroporo, Omosida, Ita, Sanmi, Osara, Obeche, and many more. They all come in different prices, depending on their measurement. For Otara wood its measurement are 1x12by 12 and it cost N1, 300; 2x2by 12 cost N300; 2x3by 12 cost N4, 50; 2x12 by12 cost N1, 800 . Iroko wood has 1x12 by 12 cost N1, 500; 2x12 by 12 cost N2, 200. Mahogany 1x12 by 12 costs N2, 100; 2 by 7 feet cost N1, 500; 2x2 by 12 costs N3, 200.

Ipin, Obeche, Otako, and Omosida have the same price range depending on the inches 1x12 by 12 costs 1,100; 2x12 by 12 costs N1, 500; 3x8 by 12 cost N1, 600. The cheapest are Sanmi, and Arere with sizes like 1x12 by 12 costs N900; 2x12by 12 costs N1, 300; 2x3by 12 costs N300.

Plywood has different sizes and prices with

two types, the imported and local ones. For the imported type 1\8 inches cost N300; ½ cost N1, 500; half inch cost N2, 900; and 3/ 4 costs N4, 500. For the local one 1/ 8 cost N250; 1 /2 cost N1, 400; half inch cost N2,800; and 3 / 4 cost N4,400.

Pans, peck and flat metals are bought by bundles and piece. Bundles of pans cost N10, 000 containing 20piece; a piece cost N500. Flat metals cost N2,000 per bundle.

The market also stock paints of various colours, types and prices. We have Kaklus, Fine Coats, Jolak, Radiant, Daplux , and Soliguard.

These paints, apart from Care and Soliguard which are the more expensive ones because they are imported and only come in glossy and packed in 4 litre. The rest of the paints have three variations such as emulsion, texcoat, and gloss mix. All these have their different prices.

20 litres of any brand of paint that is glossy cost N2, 500: Texcoat cost N4,000: Emulsion cost N2, 600. Four litres of glossy cost N500: Texcoat cost N1,000: Emulsion cost N500, 1 litre its cost N300.Paint comes in three packs which are in 20, 4, and 1 litre. The amount of litres to purchase should depend on the individual who is buying.

Paint has different colours but has some special ones which are deep colours and more expensive, they come in 4 litre packs and sold for N3,100. They are orange, purple, silver and gold.

Prices of nails vary too, they come in two bags, the 50kg which cost N5,000, and 25kg which cost N2, 500. For those who want to buy small quantity, N100 worth is available.

Top-Board costs N70 for 200gm, N1, 500 goes for 250gm, 500kg is sold for N250, 1kg cost N400, 2kg cost N700, and 5kg cost N1, 200. All the aforementioned can be found at the Isopako plank market.

THE NATION FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2013

34

SHOPPING

‘FLP products are 100% NAFDAC compliant’ Forever Living Products are 100% compliant with the standards of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), ALADE ABIODUN writes

F

OREVER Living Products have been certified good. The firm’s Managing Director in Nigeria and Benin, Mr Cornelius Tay told reporters in Lagos it was out to give the best to its customers.

He said: “Since the inception of our company, we have offered Nigerians only the best in every product category we market and sell. Forever Living Products Nigeria have been able to supply Nigerians the many products that they have come to love because of the huge investment by our parent company in the United States of America (USA) in research and development, state of the art technology and stringent quality control.”

“The products of Forever Living Products are certified not only in the USA and Nigerian regulatory agencies, but also scientific, religious and professional bodies. All of these attest to the exceptional quality of every product that is marketed and sold in Nigeria by our company.”

On the clampdown on energy drinks in the market, Tay said his company appreciates the concerns raised about products generally classified as energy drinks and has no doubt that “we have a highly responsible regulatory system in place in Nigeria to control the importation, sale and consumption of all foods, drinks, supplements and health products in the Nigerian market”.

He added that it is the belief of FLP that all marketers of goods or products have a responsibility to ensure that only the very best is offered to Nigerian consumers in return for their patronage, stressing that “Forever Active Boost (popularly called FAB) is a natural energy drink that has been approved for sale and consumption in Nigeria by NAFDAC. He said it as “a functional Energy Drink” that is non alcoholic”.

He also said NAFDAC has confirmed that FAB does not contain caffeine as an added ingredient, clarifying further that the drink only contains guarana which is sourced naturally.

The Vice President, Africa, Forever Living International Incorporated, USA, Mr Gary Shreeve attested to the high quality standard of FAB and other products of the company, not-

•

ing that the company does not want to damage its reputation by producing inferior products.

“We set high standard and comply with strict regulations and I must confess that NAFDAC is one of the strictest agencies in the world in terms of standard. They don’t compromise and that is the joy of our company working in Nigeria and with them because we believe in giving out the very best”.

He added that products of the company are naturally sourced with aloe vera as the base hence side effect is greatly reduced. “Our products heal naturally. We believe the body is organic and can heal itself with the right supplements which our products are”.

The company’s Director of Operations Africa, Mr Jackson Adagala, based in Nairobi, Kenya, stressed that the company will never compromise standard and counseled Africans to be weary of cheap products as “ the sweetness of cheap product is temporary but the bitterness lasts longer”.

The company had earlier rewarded outstanding distributors during its March Business Opportunity Meeting with Mr John and Justina Ekperigin as double diamond managers’ award.

Mr Ekperigin, a lecturer noted that he and his wife, a pharmacist, struggled with poverty as his meager salary couldn’t provide for the family but “Forever Living Products has helped us achieve all we dreamt of in our lives.”

• Various souvenirs

Souvenirs for parties Souvenirs are distributed at parties to make the memories of such events evergreen. TAIBAT IDOWU writes on where to get them.

S

OUVENIRS are of different sizes, shapes, quality, and prices just like other products. Things such as mugs, unbreakable plates, stainless plates; sponge cases, hand fans of different shapes; kettles, portable pots, frying pans; handkerchiefs, face towels, buckets, slippers, exercise books, coolers and many more are souvenirs distributed at parties, maybe because they are affordable or widely used items.

Markets like Mushin Ojuwoye, Oshodi, Lagos Island, Ola market- Itire and many other markets stock varieties of souvenirs at affordable prices.

For a party planner who would like to buy in bulk, they range from N1, 500 to N3,000 depending on their quality and designs.

Sponge cases and plastic hand fans are sold

for the same price, between N1,200 and N1,500 per dozen. Pots and frying pans are sold based on their qualities, they cost between N2,000 and N3,500 respectively. A bag of slippers cost N4, 500. A set of combs cost N1,500, pack of handkerchief cost N500, as well as exercise-books.

A good coffee mug is sold for N1, 500, a nice t-shirt cost N1, 500.

Souvenir stores always want to be associated with places like higher institutions, busy markets or environments. These stores are sometimes a source of financial support for educational institutions.

Many shops that are not primarily gift shops become gift shops during periods such as Christmas, Valentine’s Day, Easter.

Souvenirs are also significant with online stores.

Washable table mats for chic, trendy dining A washable table mat is a simple way to change the look of your dining table quickly and economically. It is an essential part of the dining décor. It is advisable to go for the sturdy, attractive and well finished types. For some, it is more of a utility item, but it can also be a decorative piece for the home, if well handled. TONIA ‘DIYAN writes

D

INING tables, for obvious reasons, are generally very plain and boring.

Some people believe they sometime stop the flow of interior decoration. I have seen many dining tables that are poorly

• Washable table mats

decorated and give a dull look to the dining room.

To solve this problem, it is advisable to use washable table mats to complement the look of the home and to decorate the dining

table. Though there are different varieties of table mats available in various materials such as fabric, plastic, bamboo, crochet, leather and jute in the market, but the washables ones are better for convenience and they simply give value for ones money.

From sophisticated to whacky, ethnic to modern, the list is endless.

The washable ones are also made mainly of cloth, wire, vinyl, wood, cane, jute board or plastic appearing highly modern in their appeal with the aim of protecting the dining table as well as beautifying it.

They dress up the dining area and preserve it from early wear and food stains. They simply provide style, neatness, color and practicality to eating experience. They also make eating and winding up after eating neat and tidy. They go a long way in giving a face-lift and freshening the dining area at little cost and effort These table mats are widely available in a huge variety of material, design, prints, colors and textures. Their prices vary according to the material used, and a person’s choice of design. Material like cotton, linen, silk, jute, plastic are mainly used to make the washable table mat, they vary in their patterns and beautiful prints and are suitable for all occasions because of their features of being washable when stained.

They also double up as a decoration accessory and enhances the appeal of the home generally. It is also a stylish way of making a cultural statement. These mats are more flexible in terms of usability than those that are not washable. They can be used to place dishes of cooked food, cutlery

and eating plates. Their shapes and sizes make movement and placing easy.

While settling for a washable table mat, always keep the theme and decoration of your home in mind. Here are some useful tips to help you with the appropriate one.

The table mat should leave enough space on the table to place dishes while eating, the size of the dining table should be considered.

The color of the dining table should complement the mats. Dark-coloured table tops should be decorated with lighter coloured mats and vice versa. You can use any colour of table mats for glass table tops as long as they complement the look of the living room.

Also do not forget to keep the decor of your room in mind while choosing one. For example, for ethnic setting, the colourful ones will be perfect and for modern and chic setting, choose simple and subtle designs.

If you have children at home, the waterproof and stain-resistant type will be ideal.

These are easier to wash and they stay new for a longer time. They are generally available in plastic, wood and leather materials.

With the washable table mat, you don’t have to change your table mats often to give a fresh look to your dining room.

They are generally priced between N1, 500 and N2, 000 depending upon the design and material used. They normally come in sets of four or six mats, but you may also purchase each mat separately.

You can find them in gift shops mainly in Lagos Island especially for people who like to resell.

THE NATION FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2013

35

DISCOURSE

Forging a synergy between public and private universities for the attainment of national development Text of a paper delivered by Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN), former president, Nigerian Bar Association) and pro-chancellor and chairman of Council, University of Ibadan, at the debut of Distinguished Lecture Series of the Elizade University, Ondo State, on March 28.

• Continued from Tuesday

T

HE present structure of public universities in Nigeria was formulated, as noted above, in the Ashby Report.

The key points formulated in the Report include: • The Federal Government should give support to the development of new Universities of Nigeria, planned in 1955 and opened a few weeks before the publication of the Ashby Report in 1960; • A university should be established in the north using the old site of the Nigerian college in Zaria as its base; • A university should be established in Lagos with day and evening courses in business, commerce and economics; • University College Ibadan, should move away from its conservative position, widen its curriculum and develop into a full university; • All universities in Nigeria should be national in outlook; • There should be wider diversity and greater flexibility in university education; • All the universities should have B. A. (Education) degree courses; • Courses in Engineering, Medicine, Law, Commerce and Agriculture should be offered; • All new Nigerian universities should be independent of one another and each should confer its own degrees; • A National Universities Commission should be set up to have undisputed control over the affairs of the universities, particularly in terms of finance, staff and courses.

Below is a tabular presentation of Federal and State universities: Table 1 – Federal Universities in Nigeria &Year of Founding

•Chief Olanipekun

Emergence of Private Universities in Nigeria According to Ajadi, Public Universities had a near monopoly in providing university education in Nigeria until 1999. The marketfriendly reforms initiated under the Structural Adjustment Programmes (SAP), the deregulation policies, and the financial crisis of the states created an encouraging environment for the emergence of the Private Universities in Nigeria. The legislative measures initiated to establish Private Universities in Nigeria also helped the entry of cross-border education, which is offered mainly through private providers. At present, the private sector is a fast expanding segment of university education in Nigeria, although it still constitutes a small share of enrolment in university education.

The first attempt to establish private universities in Nigeria was between 1979 – 1983 after the Supreme Court ruled that establishment of private universities was legal. But in December

With the emergence of a democratically elected Government in 1999, the Federal Government immediately vested in the NUC the functions and power, amongst others, to receive and treat applications seeking to establish Private Universities and make recommendations for any approval to the Federal Government.

1983, General Mohammadu Buhari who took over government from a democratically elected government ordered the closure of the then 26 established private universities. The issue of private universities was not revisited until 1991 when the then ViceChancellor of the University of Agriculture, Makurdi in his convocation speech advocated the establishment of private universities and thereafter, the then Head of State, General Badamasi Babangida decided to lift the ban on the establishment of private universities and set up the Longe Commission in 1991 to review higher education in Nigeria. Amongst the recommendations of the Commission was the establishment of private universities.

With the emergence of a democratically elected Government in 1999, the Federal Government immediately vested in the NUC the functions and power, amongst others, to receive and treat applications seeking to establish Private Universities and make recommendations for any approval to the Federal Government.

Out of forty (40) applications received in 1999, only 3 of them met the NUC requirements and were granted operating licenses. They are: Igbinedion University, Okada, Edo State, Babcock University, Ilisan Remo, Ogun State, and Madonna University, Okija, Anambra State. As at February, 2013, 51 private universities have been licensed (see Table 6). This means that within a short space of ten years, Nigeria had more private universities than all the Federal Universities, the first of which debuted in 1948, as well as all the State Universities put together.

It is safe to submit that from the prevailing environment, particularly considering the large number of candidates seeking admission to the relatively few universities available against those seeking entrance to the polytechnics and other tertiary institutions put together, establishment of private universities to cope with the surging number of applicants on yearly basis became compelling, if not irresistible. The two tables below (Tables 3 and 4) summarise and demonstrate it all.

Akindele has suggested reasons private universities have become trendsetters in the Nigerian educational system. The first reason identified is the unsatisfied demand for admission into universities. It is no gainsaying the fact that universities are ‘ivory towers’ where knowledge and skills can be acquired. In Nigeria, many parents wish their children/wards to attend universities rather than the polytechnics/monotechnics and colleges of education. Table 3 shows the number of candidates that applied for admission into universities, polytechnics and colleges of education from 2007 to 2008. As indicated in Table 3, 911,679 candidates applied for admission into universities in 2007 as against 167,836 that applied for admission into the polytechnics/ monotechnics and colleges of education. In 2008, applications rose to 1,192, 050 as against 310, 022 for the polytechnics/monotechnics and colleges of education combined. What is vividly borne out by the data provided in table 4 is that over the years, whilst several candidates wished and still wish to have or gain admission into the universities, statistics show that many have been unsuccessful and frustrated for several reasons, including lack of spaces and regimented quota policy placed on the universities in respect of each discipline.

• To be continued

THE NATION FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2013

36

COMMENTARY

“I

SHALL pass through this world but once; if, therefore, there is any good that I can do or any kindness that I can show to any human being, let me do it now; let me not defer or neglect it; for I may not pass this way again”.

Little things that turn out to form the particles of greatness in human life do not necessarily emanate from men or women with silver spoon in the mouth.

Greatness is neither by birth nor by heritage. No notable Prophet of Allah, whether Ibrahim (Abraham) or Musa (Moses) or Isa (Jesus) or Muhammad (SAW) was born great in the temporal sense.

Yet all of those Prophets personify greatness in all its ramifications. History bears testimony to this.

Perhaps the above quoted poem motivated an unassuming woman of substance to initiate a poverty alleviation foundation called in 2009.

She is Dr. (Mrs) Lateefah Moyosore Durosinmi, a Senior Lecturer of Chemistry who is also the current Dean of Student Affairs, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife. Coming from a humble background this indefatigable woman’s topmost aspiration has consistently been how to show meaningful appreciation to the Almighty Allah over His bountiful blessings for her in life. The opportunity for making that aspiration a reality came in 2009 when she turned 50 and was incidentally elected the National President (Amirah) of the Federation of Muslim Women Associations of Nigeria (FOMWAN) that same year. Rather than celebrate her birthday with fanfare in typical Nigerian style, she chose a rare noble course that could assist her to leave a footprint on the sands of time.

Some of her colleagues, friends and well-wishers who had always admired her exemplary humaneness and humility rallied round her to ensure that her golden wish of gratifying Allah was fulfilled. That wish was translated into a book entitled ‘Women, Islam and Current Issues in Development’ to which those who value knowledge and intellectualism contributed. The book jointly edited by Dr. Wole Abbas of the Department of Arabic and Islamic Studies, University of Ibadan and Barr. Jade Muhammad, a Principal Lecturer at the Federal Polytechnic, Ede, Osun State, was publicly presented and the proceeds there from were dedicated to the establishment of a foundation. The name of the foundation is Lateefah Moyosore Durosinmi (LMD) Foundation. Its objective of was to assist the less privileged people, especially among women and children in laying hopeful stepping stones for them in their life’s odyssey.

The Foundation has a Board of Trustees (BOT) consisting of the following eminent personalities who are well familiar with the grassroots people: Fatimah Abdul Kareem, a Professor of Morbid Anatomy, University of Lagos (Chair); Muiz O. Durosinmi, a Professor of Dermatology, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife (member); Dr. Lateefah M. Durosinmi (founder and member); Dr. Wole Abbas, Senior Lecturer, Department of Arabic and Islamic Studies, University of Ibadan (member); Barrister Jade Muhammad, Senior Lecturer, Federal Polytechnic, Ede, Osun State; Dr. Sururah Apinke Bello, Lecturer, Computer Engineering Department, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife (Secretary).

The Foundation also has an Executive Committee which consists of the following people: Dr. Lateefah Durosinmi (Chairman); Barrister Jade Muhammad (member); Alhaji Abdul Rahman Balogun (member); Mrs. Misturah Sanusi (member) Mrs. Misturah Sanni, Lecturer, Computer Engineering, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, (member); Dr. Rafiah Oluwatosin Lawal (nee Durosinmi) and Dr. Sururah Bello (Secretary).

The first presentation of such assistance to the beneficiaries came up in 2012 at Ile-Ife, Osun State, where 50 indigent primary school pupils were aided with educational materials ranging from text and exercise books to complete school uniforms and some cash sums. It was a great delight to the parents of those pupils most of whom could no longer cope with the provisions needed by their children

FEMI ABBAS ON Femabbas@yahoo.com 08122697498

Poverty: Alleviation or prevention?

•President Goodluck Jonathan

‘In Islam, it is forbidden to live permanently on begging.

Only necessity should force a Muslim into begging and such necessity must be temporary. As soon as the problem that leads to it is solved, begging in whatever form, must stop. Any further begging thereafter is an abomination’

despite the free education policy of the government.

The second presentation came up on Monday, April 1, 2013 at ‘FOMWAN HOUSE’ in Akobo area of Ibadan. The beneficiaries this time were 24 mainly underprivileged Muslim women from Ogun, Osun and Oyo States who were financially aided with various cash sums. The number was in accordance with the applications received by the Foundation. And yours sincerely was invited as Guest Lecturer at the occasion. The theme of the lecture was ‘Concept of Poverty Alleviation in Islam (with references to Islamic history’).

In the lecture, I queried the word ‘ALLEVIATION’ which I had always perceived as unnecessarily political because it was the coinage of the ruling class used to deceive the poor masses in the society. I insisted that the word PREVENTION ought to have been used instead of ALLEVIATION as it was better to prevent poverty than to alleviate it.

I then told the audience that once you allow poverty into your life it becomes very difficult if not impossible to alleviate it because poverty is like virus which forages all organs of the body. The more you try to curb it in one part of the body the stronger it waxes in other parts. I pointed out that it was wrong to limit poverty to lack of possession of money or material substances alone and classified poverty as physical, mental, spiritual, psychological and material. If a person is lacking in health or in spirit or in contentment or in conscience or in morals he can be said to be poor and no amount of money he possesses can rescue him. But since the focus of today’s world is money along with material substances, it may become necessary to examine the causes of material poverty.

CAUSES: Material poverty is caused by a variety of issues and circumstances some of which can be enumerated as follows: (1) natural disasters like flood, drought, famine and epidemics (2) government policies like demolition, inflationary measures (e.g. increase in fuel price and power tariff), relocation or change of environment as well as prohibition of sale of certain products

or banning of their importation (3) weather variation such as excessive of rainfalls or unexpectedly prolonged dry season or devastating dunes (4) self-enticed poverty like war, extravagancy, ostentation and prodigality. Of all these causes, none is as biting as self-enticed poverty which is particularly rampant among Nigerian women who must wear the latest fashionable dresses in vogue at all costs and celebrate birthdays and funerals with borrowed money. And after spending so much on such unnecessary trivialities, some necessities of life will surface at a time when the wherewithal would have been exhausted thereby pushing the concerned person into the market of borrowing and indebtedness.

Women are also the ones who must celebrate their children’s birthdays every year with pump and pageantry thereby showing those children how to spend money without showing them how to make money. Thus, by the time such children grow up into men and women they would have become so much accustomed to spending spree that working for the money being spent would look like an aberration. As a result, poverty will set in and they will embark on stylish begging in the name of poverty alleviation.

Every living thing created by Allah is endowed with sustaining wealth which is called talent. One man’s wealth may be his mouth (e.g. comedian), another man’s wealth may be his legs (e.g. footballer).

There is no human being or animal or even plant without an endowed wealth.

The duty of identifying such wealth and utilising it to one’s advantage is then left to every individual.

In Islam, it is forbidden to live permanently on begging. Only necessity should force a Muslim into begging and such necessity must be temporary. As soon as the problem that leads to it is solved, begging in whatever form, must stop. Any further begging thereafter is an abomination. Even the institution of Zakah which is a whole pillar of Islam was introduced for the purpose of solving immediate problems for the poor, the indigents and the needy. No Muslim except an ally of Satan will take begging for a permanent job.

A poor man once approached Prophet Muhammad (SAW) seeking his financial assistance to enable him and his family feed that day. He told the Prophet that he had nothing at home with which to feed his wife and children. The Prophet then asked whether he had anything in his house that could be sold to enable him and his family feed for the day. In response, he said there was nothing.

Then the Prophet pressurised him to think of anything in his house that he could sell.

The man then remembered a small bowl made of bronze which someone had given him several years back. He, however, told the Prophet that no one would want to buy it because it was useless. The Prophet told him to go and bring it.

When he came back with the bowl, the Prophet took it from him and sought from his companions if anyone of them could pay for it. Sensing that the Prophet had reason for putting the bowl up for sale, one the companions volunteered to buy it for only one Dirham. The Prophet further sought to know if someone else could pay more for it. And another companion volunteered to pay two Dirham.

Then, the Prophet took the money and handed over the bowl to the buyer while he gave the money to the owner of the bowl instructing him to spend only one Dirham on food and the remaining one Dirham to purchase an axe.

The poor man rushed home and returned later with an axe as instructed by the Prophet. Then the Prophet told him to use the axe to fetch firewood and sell it so that he could use the money realised from it to feed his family the following day. The man followed the Prophet’s instruction scrupulously and after one week he returned with a better dress and informed the Prophet that he had been making 15 Dirham every day and therefore had no more problems feeding his family. There and then, Prophet Muhammad (SAW) came up with the Hadith that says: “the upper hands are always better than the lower hands” meaning that the giving hands are better blessed by Allah than the receiving hands. (This Hadith was related by Abu Huraira).

The wisdom in the above Hadith is not just about dignity of labour but also about self-esteem in feeding from one’s sweat.

This is the wisdom which Dr. Lateefah Durosinmi intends to inject the poor Muslim women who will be benefitting from her philanthropic largess some of whom were granted interest-free loan.

The objective is to let those women know that it is far more dignifying to sell coal, firewood or sachet water to earn a living than to depend on begging for survival.

If about one thousand other privileged Muslim women in the Southwest Nigeria could embark on a similar rewarding venture, surely, a reduction of poverty in this region would have become manifest by now.

The book that led to the establishment of LMD Foundation is still available for purchase by any good-hearted person who may wish to support the foundation in one way or another.

“Who shares his life’s pure pleasure and walks the honest road; who trades with heaping measure and lifts his brother’s load; who turns the wrong down bluntly and lends the right a hand; he dwells in God’s own country and tills the Holy land”. Dr. Lateefah has done this much.

We are witnesses. She deserves encouragement from all those who want to join in sharing the bounties of Allah with her.

The role of Zakah in poverty prevention and alleviation as well as the general misconception about Nisab which has turned many potential Zakah payers into Zakah recipients will soon be discussed in this column in sha’Allah.

Erratum

A

VERSE of the Qur’an about the devastating effect of imperialists’ intrusion into a territory as discussed in this column last week was inadvertently misquoted as Chapter 12 verse….. instead of Chapter 27 verse 34. My attention was drawn to this

by General Abdus-Salam of Nigerian Army. I pray Allah to reward him abundantly.

THE NATION FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2013

37

SOCIETY Of his parents' seven sons, he is the only surviving child. By 1937 when he was only four, he had lost all his brothers. Last Thursday, he turned 80. This is the story of Pastor Gabriel Olutola, President of The Apostolic Church, Nigeria and Chairman, Lagos, Western and Northern Areas (LAWNA) Territory. NNEKA NWANERI reports.

‘My life as only surviving child’ H

E didn't ask for honour; he earned it and he is worthy of it. He was not born with a silver spoon but rose from grass to grace. His ministrations are always inspirational and charismatic. He is an epitome of heroism and a great man of God." Those were some of the words the children of Pastor Gabriel Olutola, the National President of The Apostolic Church, Nigeria, used to describe their father, who clocked 80 last week.

The President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor, also praised Pastor Olutola, for his humility and hospitality.

Pastor Oritsejafor described Pastor Olutola as an "apostle, a pastor, an evangelist, a leader by example who defends, yet doesn't compromise his integrity. He is an epitome of humility and indeed an incredible man."

The CAN president prayed for the celebrator.

"May heaven reward you for the goodness you have done humanity; for the love he has for the church and the price you have paid for Christianity", he said.

With praise and thanksgiving, his children, friends and members of The Apostolic Church, Nigeria ushered Pastor Olutola into the octogenarian club. Clerics from other denominations were there in large numbers to celebrate with him.

A reception followed at the church's expansive International Convention Ground on LagosIbadan Expressway, Ketu, Lagos.

The temple was decorated in orange and green. There were ushers in the several walkways and entrances of the church.

People came from far and wide. The rich, the poor and Apostolic faithful were there.

Earlier in the week, Pastor Olutola visited the motherless babies' home and Ikoyi prison. There was also a launch of the celebrator's biography and a lecture by former Lagos State AttorneyGeneral and Commissioner for Justice, Prof.

Yemi Osinbajo.

Last Saturday's thanksgiving climaxed the weeklong events.

Special anthems were sung by the Choir of Samuel Adegboyega University (SAU); Lagos Metropolitan Areas Combined Choir and the Temple Choir of the church. The last anthem was sung by the children and great grand children of the celebrator.

The Anglican Archbishop of Lagos, Revd Adebola Ademowo, who delivered the sermon, said he first met the celebrator in 1972 in Ilesha, Osun State. He prayed that Pastor Olutola's strength be renewed like the eagle.

Revd Ademowo said: "We have been friends for over 40 years and I have come to know him

•Pastor Olutola at 80.

‘My mother had seven sons but since 1937, I have been the only one left. My mother used to pamper me though she was very instructive. So, I chose not to celebrate any birthday till I was 50. By then, I was sure I would have been married with children. as a man of God to the core. He is a role model of who a role model should be. I admire him so much. He is a dogged evangelist."

Ademowo said because of his admiration for The Apostolic Church, he did a special research as a theologian and a historian and wrote a book on it.

Wishing the celebrator a longer, healthier and peaceful life, Ademowo turned to him, saying: "You have been diligent and straightforward.

You haven't been a chameleon, but rather, a leader of great repute with quintessential personalities."

Pastor Olutola looks younger than his age as he still moves sprightly. He danced and sang

joyfully without showing signs of old age. He danced to the front of the church to drop his offering, accompanied by his children, as loud chants of praise worship songs filled the arena.

Before he gave the testimony of his life, he read Psalm 126 to glorify God. After that, he began his testimony in Yoruba, and it was translated to English. It went thus: “I thank God today because He has been faithful to me in all his promises. My mother had seven sons but since 1937, I have been the only one left. My mother used to pamper me though she was very instructive. So, I chose not to celebrate any birthday till I

was 50. By then, I was sure I would have been married with children.

"Thank God for the woman He gave me to marry. She is inestimable. On the 16th of this month, we would have marked our 57th wedding anniversary. Though we lived for 46 years, none of our parents settled any quarrel between us, so I needed not remarry because of how good she was."

After the service, guests moved to an open field, where two gigantic tents were erected.

Sunny Melody and his band dished out gospel juju music to the delight of guests. The celebrator sat on a special seat with his family members receiving pleasantries and gifts.

More than eight cakes were cut by the celebrator and every guest went home with souvenirs.

In attendance were Lagos State Deputy Governor, Mrs Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire; wife of the Lagos State Governor, Dame Abimbola Fashola; Vintage Press Limited Executive Director, Finance and Administration, Mr Ade Odunewu; all LAWNA Executive Council Members; representatives of the Ondo State government; the Bible Society of Nigeria (BSN); Chairman, Osun State, Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) Elder Adelowo Adebiyi and elders and leaders of the church.

•The celebrator Pastor Olutola (second left) assisted by his children (from left) Eunice Olugbemiga; Elder Gideon and Deborah Apeoso to cut the cake

•Pastor Duke (left) and Pastor Oritsejafor

•Mrs Orelope-Adefulire (left) and Dame Fashola

•Col Eni Oye and wife Ibukun

• Mr Toinba Deji and Mrs Yemisi Ariyibi

PHOTOS: ABIODUN WILLIAMS

THE NATION FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2013

38

SOCIETY A Permanent Secretary in the Ekiti State Civil Service, Princess Adekunbi Obaisi, has celebrated her 50th birthday with a church service and reception attended by family and friends in Akure, Ondo State capital, writes SULAIMAN SALAWUDEEN

S

HE wore a golden brown traditional outfit with blue pattern. The blue gele (headgear) spread about her head like the tail of a peacock. She kept waving her hands and dancing to and from the altar at the request of the officiating minister, Pastor Wale Adetuberu, at the Trinity Cathedral, Orital Obele, Akure, the Ondo State capital.

Each time she smiled, her face revealed wellset teeth which accentuated her beauty. Beads adorned her wrists and neck.

She acknowledged dignitaries and fellow permanent secretaries in the Ekiti State Civil Service who attended the church service and the colourful reception at the her Awule mansion with smiles.

Many did not believe Princess Obaisi was 50 as she looked younger.

The tunes from the church choir kept drawing the celebrator and her husband, Bishop Daniel Obaisi, to the dance floor. They were occasionally joined by their children Rereloluwa, Obaloluwa, Alaanuloluwa, Olubukunloluwa and Ajagunmoluloluwa.

Pastor Adetuberu, in his sermon, congratulated the couple for a successful marital journey, noting that not many had been equally successful. He encouraged mothers to mother their children rather than “murder them” through condemnable conducts.

Urging a ‘live and let live principle’, the pastor noted that the “value of the life of a man is the amount of good seeds sown in that of others”.

The reception was grand.

The shades of red and white that dominated the venue added colour to the event. The cake covered with a golden veil lent a tinge of elegance to the venue; it accentuated the class and high taste of the celebrator.

Guests had more than enough to eat and drink. The versatile Ekiti State cultural group enlivened the reception with various songs which often had the Princess and her husband on the dance floor.

Princess Obaisi recounted the difficulties her mum, now late, underwent bringing them up after the death of her father and the initial opposition to her proposal to marry

50 royal beads for a Princess •The celebrator assisted by husband and children to cut the cake

Mr Obaisi. She also recounted the material hardship she went through at the early stages of her marriage, adding: “But, I thank God for this great day.”

Her husband, Bishop Obaisi, recalled the periods of courtship and the opposition from his wife’s mother and siblings, noting that the opposition was actually meant to protect Princess then as there was no way the family could have guessed the purity of his intention and purpose.

One thing which worked well for our marriage is that whenever we quarrelled over any issue, we ensured that we found a way to make amends within ourselves.

ExpressING his appreciation to Mrs. Obaisi for making Efon Alaaye, her roots, proud.

The Alaaye of Efon-Ekiti kingdom, Oba Emanuel Aladejare, said each time he met Obaisi, she would ensure that she tried her best to ensure that he gets answers to her demands.

The Head of Service, Mr Olubunmi Famosaya, commended her courage and attainment. He mentioned her dedication to duty which he described as great, noting that whenever you give her any assignment you can go to bed.

Dignitaries at the service and the reception included the Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Ganiyu Owolabi; wife of the monarch of Ado-Ekiti, Olori Eyesorun Bosede Adejugbe; Chief Judge of Ekiti State, Justice Ayodeji Daramola; Aare Kunle Olajide; Ekiti State Commissioner for Women Affairs, Social Welfare

•Oba Aladejare and Olori Adejugbe

and Gender Empowerment, Mrs. Fola RichieAdewusi and other commissioners in the state including, Dr Eniola Ajayi, Chief Ronke Okusanya and Mr Funminiyi Afuye.

Others included Chairperson, Ekiti State Universal Basic Education Board, Prof. Modupe Adelabu; Special Assistant in Governor’s Office, Mrs. Kehinde Daramola; Special Assistant to the Governor on Strategy, Mr Bisi Omoleye; Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) chairman, Ekiti State, High Chief Jide Awe and his wife; Justice Toyin Abodunde; and Elder and Mrs.

Segun Bankole.

Permanent secretaries in attendance included Dr. Bola Fakunle; Mr. Lekan Ayeleso; Mrs. Bimpe Aderiye; Mrs. Peju Babafemi; Mrs. Florence Oke; Mr Fred Ologuntoyo; Mrs. Funmi Ajayi; Mr Tayo Aluko; Mr Sesan Alabi; Mrs. Funke Falodun; Mrs Folake Olomojobi; Mr. Kola Ajumobi.

Church heads at the event included Bishop Felix Adejumo, Revd Kayode Aboderin; Revd Marylance Olaoye; Revd Tola Afuye; Revd Funmi Ojumu; Pastor Olusoji Bello among others.

10TH YEAR MEMORIAL THANKSGIVING FOR JUSTICE ATINUKE OMOBONIKE IGE AT ST. ANNES ANGLICAN CHURCH, MOLETE, IBADAN, OYO STATE

•From left: Deputy Governor of Osun State, Mrs. Titilayo Laoye-Tomori; Osun State Governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola; Senator Sola Adeyeye and deceased’s son and Commissioner of Urban Development, Arch Muyiwa Ige

•From left: Owa Omiran of Esa-Oke Oba Adeyemi Adediran; Olotan of Otan-Ile Oba Sunday Olatokun and Olomu of Ijaregbe Oba Emmanuel Adetimo

•Prof. Bimpe Aboyade (left) and Mrs Folake Solanke (SAN)

•Chief Dele Aiku (SAN) (left) and Justice Omotayo Onalaja

PHOTOS: FEMI ILESANMI

THE NATION FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2013

39

SOCIETY

Yeyelaje, the minister’s wife

COMMUNICATE YOUR IDEAS Good Speaker or Great Speaker; Your Choice!

D

Chairman and Editor-inChief of Gaskia Media Limited, DARE BABARINSA, pays tribute to the wife of former defunct Western Region Minister Chief Oduola Osuntokun and mother of politician Akin Osuntokun, the late Madam Hannah Folorunso Osuntokun, whose remains will be buried today in Okemesi-Ekiti •The late Madam Osuntokun

T

HE public seldom cast a glance at the other side of glamour of the politician’s wife. We know about the Better Life, the glitz of firstladism, but what of the lonely peril of the wife of the soldier who failed at coup plotting or the politician on the run for his life after a misadventure? Chief (Mrs)Hannah Folorunso Osuntokun certainly had an untold story. She was married to Chief Oduola Osuntokun who served for eleven years as a Minister in the old Western Region, first in the cabinet of Chief Obafemi Awolowo and later that of his successor, Chief Ladoke Akintola. She knew the peril of power and the gory side of the glamour of being the minister’s wife.

In the Okemesi of the 1960s, the Osuntokuns had a dominant presence.

One was the minister. Another was a captain in the Nigerian Army and yet another was a high-flying medical doctor who was to become world famous as Professor Oluwakayode Osuntokun, the neurologist who became the first person in the world to win the Charles Drew award for medicine. Coming up then were Taye Osuntokun, later to become the Auditor-General of Local Government of Ekiti State and Akinjide, distinguished professor of history and first Nigerian ambassador to united Federal Republic of Germany. All these people were names in the air. The one we knew and saw everyday in Okemesi-Ekiti was iyawo Osuntokun, Folorunso.

In 1965, at the time of the regional elections in the West, she was a teacher at Local Authority, L.A. School, where one of her brothers-in-law, Tunde Osuntokun, was the headmaster.

Though her husband was a regional minister, she did not have a car. Accompanied by pupils from Ile Osuntokun and other parts of Ile Aro Ogeregere, the ancestral compound of the Osuntokuns, she would trek the almost three kilometres to school everyday. Often on her heels were Gbonjubola, her daughter, Akin, her son and the late Adekemi Ibipomola Bamigbade, daughter of Mrs Kehinde Bamigbade, the minister’s only uterine sister, who was destined to become my wife. Though the distance was long, Iyawo Osuntokun loved to count her steps. She was very slim, elegant and carries herself with an air of dignity.

Those were the days when Nigeria was simple and a minister’s wife can do without a car of her own. Think of the first lady of a local government now!

Then the storm came after the election. Chief Akintola’s Nigerian National Democratic Party, NNDP, was said to have won the regional election of 1965,

defeating the Action Group of Chief Awolowo, who was then serving a 10year term for treasonable felony at Calabar Prison. Many of the NNDP candidates were “returned unopposed” because the candidatures of their opponents were invalidated fraudulently.

Everyone knew that Akintola had stolen the election, but that would not dampen his supporters’ spirit in Okemesi. They trooped into the street singing: Akintola wo’le Asofin, Ese wo!

Ki e ma ba ku ni kekere, Ese wo!

Akintola has recaptured the House of Assembly, Be careful!

So that you will not die young Be careful!

We followed the dancers round the town. I was in primary four at Saint Andrew Anglican Primary School, and like most of my mates, we did not understand the full import of the drama.

We thoroughly enjoyed ourselves.

Then one day in early 1966 before the coup that killed Akintola and his powerful friends, Alhaji Ahmadu Bello, the Premier of the Northern Region, and Alhaji Abubakar Tafawa-Balewa, the Prime-Minister, Okemesi was overcast with fear. Everyone ran indoors. Thugs were in town as part of the general campaign of the opposition resistance against Akintola known as Operation wet e!

That day, the two houses in the Osuntokun compound were gutted.

One of them was razed to the ground and the other is still standing till today.

It was renovated after the extensive damage. Folorunso and her children, fled to Esa Oke through the bush path.

Mama Ootola Osuntokun, the matriarch of the house and mother of the Osuntokun boys, relocated to her family house in Okeloro quarters of the town. Few days later, the First Republic was toppled in a military coup. After some times in Ibadan coping with the aftermath of the loss of power, Chief Osuntokun relocated home. Never again was he to mount the rostrumin electoral gladiatorial combat. Instead, he picked up a job as the principal of Amoye Grammar School, Ikere Ekiti.

This was a man who had been a minister for more than 10 years. We can just imagine what would have been the situation today for a man who has been a minister for 10 months! Osuntokun was an honest man who served his country with passion and patriotism.

But the Osuntokuns remained foreshadowed with the halo of power and politics. Iyawo Osuntokun was Baba

Osuntokun’s second wife. The first was Chief (Mrs) Mabel Osuntokun, Mama Tinu, who was (and still is) based in Ibadan. She was the daughter of Bishop Osanyin, the first Bishop of Ekiti Diocese of the Church of Nigeria, (Anglican Communion). She is an eightysomething great grandmother.

But Folorunso remained anchored in Okemesi. She picked up a teaching appointment with Okemesi Grammar School after obtaining a higher certificate from the Adeyemi College of Education, Ondo. In the early 1970s, she opened the biggest supermarket, including a medicine store, in Okemesi.

Though she did not play any visible role in the politics of the Second Republic, there was no doubt that she had learnt a lot from the master, Chief Oduola Osuntokun. She was a significant member of the Alliance for Democracy, AD, and Egbe Afenifere, at the dawn of the Fourth Republic. Her son, Akin, had grown into politics, serving first as an aide of late Major-General Shehu Musa Yar’Adua and later as a fiery critic of the General Sani Abacha dictatorship.

Akin later served with distinction as the managing director of the News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, and political adviser to President Olusegun Obasanjo.

Mama Osuntokun, who had been installed as the Yeyelaje (Mother of Commerce) of Okemesi, had lived to see the political coming of age of her first son Akin. Events had come full circle before our very eyes.Yeyelaje was the pillar of the home front while her husband and later her son were out there weathering the storms of politics.

Her greatest strength was her capacity to remain busy and relevant. Throughout her life, she remained a dominant business person in Okemesi.

The last time I met her was in August last year at Akin’s house in Abuja. Her daughter, Bukola Ogunsina and my niece and Akin’s wife, Ronke, were present in the house and some of her grandchildren too. She was still her jovial self, though it was evident that her illness had taken its tolls. She was in good spirit, her laughter, ringing through the house like in those days when she was the lady in command.

Now, she commands no more. Today, Friday April 12, 2013, she would be committed to Mother Earth in Okemesi, ending a part of a story she started as the minister’s wife more than half-a-century ago. She was a significant part of the Osuntokun story, bringing her practicality and common sense to blend with the tradition of public service that is the hallmark of the Osuntokun legacy. Now she is gone, but the Osuntokun family saga continues.

O you know we sometimes settle for ‘good’ when we can be ‘great’? O yes we do. Sometimes we don’t put as much effort into what we do because we think we have nothing (physical) to gain.

But when we invest ourselves into any activity, the knowledge and experience we gain become ours for life. We have to develop the AMODU LANRE OLAOLU attitude of being the best at (Ph.D) sospeak2lanre@yahoo.com. whatever we do, whether we are 07034737394 rewarded or not. Excellence is not an action but a way of life. If you are given any task, do it so well that little or nothing can be added.

Excellence is the best bargaining chip you can have. I heard the true story of a man who chose to engage in vigorous self-development and to put his best into all he did at work. While his colleagues stylishly escaped responsibilities, he gladly took them up. While his colleagues mocked him for always “being available,” he was busy developing himself. Unknown to them, he was making himself indispensable. One day, he told the management of his place of work that he was quitting and there was confusion! An emergency board meeting was called and he was asked to renegotiate the terms of his employment; the board was willing to give him a raise and even a better position just to retain him in the organization. Imagine that!

In relation to public speaking, you also have a choice to make. You either go the extra mile to be outstanding or you vanish in the crowd as ‘yet another speaker.’ I listened to a speaker recently and I was left unsatisfied after his presentation. He delivered a good speech but I wished he had made it a great one. So, instead of writing his points, I found myself writing what made him good instead of great. Here are my findings: •Facts without proofs: the speaker made brilliant points, but he couldn’t convince us that they actually work. If he had cited examples of those who achieved success busing those principles, we would have benefited more from the presentation. Fact without proof is like wind without rain.

•Expression without experience: the speech was eloquently delivered. The speaker was quite expressive, but he obviously didn’t have any experience to fall back on. It is actually easy to know when someone is speaking from wealth of experience and when he/she reads up the topic just for presentation.

•Presentation without passion: when a speaker is not passionate, there is no way his/her speech can ignite fire in the audience. An unmotivated speaker will turn a great speech to a good one any time any day; in fact he can do worse.

•Definition without depth: if a speaker has 15 minutes to speak and he spends 10 minutes giving definition, when should we expect the substance of the speech? Depth is not how much you understand your subject matter, but how much you can show your audience its applicability.

•Volume without Value: public speaking is not about how much you say, but how valuable your words are. Someone can deliver a 20 minutes speech with only 2 minutes value with someone else can deliver 5 minutes speech with 20 minutes value. It is not about the number of points you make; it is about the relevance of your words to your listeners.

At this juncture, I’d like to appreciate my readers immensely, I mean you reading right now. I also want to appreciate those who have sent mails and SMS, both to express goodwill and to ask questions. Most of the questions I received have been answered in one article or the other, while some that required direct information have been attended to. Here are a few of your messages (you can be sure I will publish more from time to time): Good morning. I’m both impressed and blessed with your articles on communication. Thank you for teaching me. I know I will learn a lot from you. –Chinkata, FUTO You wrote a great piece today. I enjoyed reading it especially the Barber’s story. - Dr. Biodun Your article “intrapersonal communication” is such a remarkable one that no one would like to be left out of sharing in the wonderful IDEAS!! Kip it up. – Idris, Kano I applaud you for such a wonderful and inspiring piece on mass communication. Kudos to you. – Jessica, Abia State Shallom. I read your article in today’s The Nation. Keep it up. - Elder Olutex, Kwara State I read your column in The Nation newspaper of 22nd march, 2013. Your prescribed therapies are wonderful and healing and I’ll continue searching for more of yours in the dailies.- Collins, Abuja Thanks for your article on communication. It is an eye opener. Must meditate on it. More Grace. - Prof. Duro, Kwara State Thanks a lot for your messages. Please keep reading and keep letting me know what you think about our topics.

Dr. Amodu teaches at the Department of Mass Communication, Covenant University, Ota, Ogun State.

THE NATION FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2013

40

SOCIETY Fiyinfoluwa, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Adeyemi Obakin, owners of popular Abuja eatery, Biobak Kitchen, got married to her beau, Olukayode, son of the late Mr Gabriel Aladejebi in Abuja last Saturday. YUSUF ALLI, MANAGING EDITOR, NORTHERN OPERATION reports

‘We met on the campus’

I

T was a wedding that drew the cream of the society. Top gov-

ernment functionaries, military brass, former political office holders and captains of commerce were there.

It was the wedding of Fiyinfoluwa Oluwatunmise, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Adeyemi Obakin, owners of the popular Abuja eatery, Biobak Kitchen, to her lovebird, Olukayode Adebayo Aladejebino last Saturday.

The wedding was preceded by a traditional engagement at BMO Centre in Wuse District of Abuja.

For the two families, it was a journey back to their roots in Ijeshaland, Osun State as they displayed the rare cultural heritage which make the Ijesa tick.

Besides the melodious tune of ace musician Yinka Ayefele at the traditional engagement, there were words of exhortations at the church service on Saturday from the Senior Pastor of the Family Worship Centre, Mrs. Sarah Omakwu, who charged the couple to make God the foundation of their home. Quoting from Deuteronomy 30:5, she said: "My prayer for the couple is that you will achieve greater things than your parents in life." She also asked the couple to write down all the prayers offered by the clerics in the church and work towards the points for fulfilment.

Guests were later regaled with the couple's love story at the reception held at the International Conference Centre, Abuja.

The bride, Fiyinfoluwa said: "Kayode and I met about five years ago while I was still at the university. We attended the same university and even studied the same course (Accounting). So, we had been mutual friends but we didn't start talking until I was in my final year. My friends and I had gone to cinema and one of my friends was invited for a birthday dinner afterwards. So, we all tagged along…lo!

"He was one of the guys who attended the dinner and I remember him really trying to catch my attention and talk to me but I was fronting...! Later that night, he just walked up to me and asked for my number and willingly I obliged…strange!

"He called me later that night and we had one of the most beautiful and interesting conversations ever and that was the beginning. Since then… he has become my best friend, my confidant and the love of my life. Everything is easier when I'm with him and I can't wait to spend the rest of my life with this amazing man."

Olukayode, the son of the late Mr

•The couple flanked by their parents

•Senior Pastor, Family Worship Centre, Pastor Sarah Omakwu(right) with her sister, Regina .

•From left: Dr Adesina; Mrs Biodun Obakin and a former Editor of the Sketch Press Limited, Mr. Fisan Bankale

•Wife of former Minister of Health, Mrs. Eyitayo Lambo

•From right: Mrs Comfort Obakin; Mrs Alao-Akala and a guest

Gabriel Aladejebi, said his courage at a friend's birthday hangout in his final year in University of Lagos (UNILAG) did the magic to win Fiyin's heart."

He said: "My first contact with Fiyin was during my final year in the university when a friend introduced her as the younger sister of one of our mutual friends. Since then, we never met again until 2008

at a friend's birthday hangout. While at the outing, my eyes caught a glimpse of the beautiful face across the table and that was 'it.'

"By the time we were all set to leave the venue, I summoned courage and walked up to her and 'politely' asked for her number to which she obliged. By the time I got home that night, I had made up my mind that there was no need

to further waste time over what my heart was already telling me. We have grown so much in love and are fond of each other that I feel so incomplete without her. Words cannot best describe how much I have looked forward to this day to take the vow to commit the rest of my life to my pride and joy."

In attendance were Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Dr. Akinwumi Adesina; the

WHAT AND WHERE

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Funeral

UNERAL service for the late Mrs Florence Mopelola Adunni Omotade will hold today at St. David’s Cathedral Church, Ijomu Akure, Ondo State.

Interment follows immediately at the church cemetery. Guests will be entertained immediately after at Alagbaka Primary School field, Ijomu Akure.

Wedding

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EDDING between Uzoamaka Henrietta Nwaosa and Oshomah Julius Osakwua holds tomorrow at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, IreAkari Estate Road, Isolo, Lagos State.

Reception follows immediately at the church social complex within the estate.

Funeral

S

T. MICHAEL Catholic Church will tomorrow hold its 20th anniversary at the church premises Alapere-Ketu, Lagos.

The anniversary will feature N250 million fund raising for the parish’s developmental projects. The chief host is Archbishop Alfred Adewale Martins.

G

former Deputy Governor of Ekiti State, Mrs Biodun Olujimi; former Minister of Health, Prof. Eyitayo Lambo; former Deputy InspectorGeneral of Police, Deacon Adedayo Adeoye; Justice Edward Ojuolape (rtd); Brig Gen M.A.O Amolegbe; former governorship candidate in Lagos State Chief Oluremi Adiukwu-Bakare; Alhaji Bisiriyu Adenle and Chief Bolarinwa Obakin.

Convocation

REEN Hills University Denmark will tomorrow hold its special convocation ceremony at the guest house lecture theatre Hall, University of Lagos, Akoka.

The convocation is to celebrate the conferment of a professorial seat in leadership and political science by Green Hills University on Prof Mwajei Chuks Nwajei.

A

Obsequies

COMMENDATION service for the late Mother Mary Affiong Ukpeh will hold today at the Presbyterian Church of Nigeria, Port- Harcourt.

Burial and funeral service will hold tomorrow at her family house in Ema- Itam, Itam; ITV local government area, AkwaIbom.

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THE NATION FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2013

FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2013

43

POLITICS THE NATION

E-mail:- politics@thenationonlineng.net

ABIA POLITICS Ahead of the 2015 general elections, there is the agitation for power to shift to the ‘Aba Division’ of Abia State.

In this report, AUGUSTINE AVWODE examines the issues.

Abia 2015 : Will power shift to Aba Division?

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OLITICS is in the air in Abia State. There are two political parties battling for the soul of the state; the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA). However, what will shape the forthcoming governorship contest is zoning or rotational principle agreed upon by the leaders of the state 14 years ago.

The agreement is enshrined in the famous ‘Abia Charter of Equity’, which stipulates that the governorship should rotate between • Orji • Wabara the “old Bende” and old Aba”. Therefore, in Abia State, the zoning is not based on the namely ‘Old Bende’ and ‘Old Aba’. from the Aba division has always been for an three senatorial districts, but on the two criti“One could say that the position of Chief Ngwa Man to be governor to ensure that the cal political blocs.

Wabara may be correct to the extent that we all vision of our founding fathers is realized. Except It all started in 1981 when the agitation for the want power to shift, at least for once. But his we are careful, we are going to play into the creation of the state was at its peak. The elargument is faulty. As far as anybody in the state hands of those who would not want us to realize ders and leaders of the state who champiis concerned, Old Bende has been in power since this dream”, he warned. oned the agitation crafted the document to 1999 till date. Therefore, at the expiration of the Fromer Speaker of the state House of Assemensure equity, fairness and justice among the tenure of Governor Theodore Orji, ‘ Aba’ should bly, Honourable Chris Eweremadu told The Natwo blocs. A provision was made for the rotacome into office. Chief Orji Kalu and Chief Orji, tion on phone that the call for Abia South to protion of power between the two blocs seeking as far as I am concerned, are both from Bende” duce the next governor is a ploy to exclude poto merge as a state . he said. tentially qualified people of Ngwa extraction that The dream of the people for a new state came There are three senatorial districts in Abia with are not resident in what is now called Abia South. into reality in 1991. The ‘perfect document’, as a total of 17 local government councils. But the “People who are calling for the next governor it was described, was however, jetissoned problem of categorization arises from the fact to come from Abia South are undermining the when civil rule was restored in 1999. The that while some local councils in the Bende diviagreement that had been made in the past, espeold Bende Division has been producing the sion fall exclusively into Abia North Senatorial cially with the present governor that after his governors. Up to now, the governorship has District, and some councils in Aba division fall term of office, that he would be succeeded by an eluded the Aba Division. exclusively into Abia South Senatorial District, Abian of Ngwa extraction. And this does not Two months ago, former Senate President the Central Senatorial District is made up of an make any reference to any zone. Therefore, it Adolphus Wabara stirred the hornets’ nest amalgam of councils from the two blocks of would include the Ngwa people in Abia Central when he declared that it is the turn of Abia Bende and Aba. Here, there are three local counand the Ngwa people in Abia South.

South Senatorial Zone to produce the govercil areas that are made up of people of Ngwa “Any person agitation for any other thing outnor. He spoke at a meeting of the Ukwa Peoples extraction. These are Isiala Ngwa North and side this is simply trying to cause mischief. And Assembly (UPA), which he hosted in his South and Osisioma Ngwa which are clearly part I also think that these people are trying to exOhambele country home. Wabara urged the of the Aba division. clude some quality candidateaspirants that we politicians from the zone to work for the The problem of referring to the people here have within the Ngwa people in Abia Central actualisation of power shift. being from Abia Central and at the same time and obviously we will not allow that to happen.

“Every where in Nigeria, people are talking being from Aba division may eventually jeop“This will not be the first time that the leaderabout 2015. Yet, we are sitting down here, not ardize the clamour of the people of Aba to get ship of Ngwa people will make attempt to govdoing anything. In politics, one plus one can be one of their own into the driving seat in the ern the state. I am appealing to all Ngwa people zero. When I was the Senate President, I was state. to come together for the purpose of attaining the working towards the goal of an Ukwa man beThe military, which lumped these local govgovernor of Abia of Ngwa extraction and in docoming the Governor of this state. But Immediernment areas together by fiat with part of Bende ing so, show support to the present administraately I was exited, the politics of that time has been blamed for the political friction it has tion that has promised to use the weight of his changed because we agreed that we are patient caused in the state. present office and the support that he enjoys from dogs in Abia State.

According to the party chieftain, the founders numerous Abians to assist us in actualising this “Today, all kinds of things are flying around of Abia State freely agreed at the creation of the goal”, he said. the whole of Abia State and we cannot keep state that, “for peace, justice, security, fairness In the same vein, the National President of quiet and allow it. We need to talk as a people. and harmony, the governorship should be roNgwa Elite Social Club, Chief Emmanuel I don’t believe in individualism, I believe in a tated between Bende Division and the Aba”. He Otuonye, expressed optimism that without system. We kept waiting, and we can’t wait for avered that the ‘Charter’ was made before the doubt, the next governor would be from Aba ever. Now it is our turn, the game changed then, creation of the state and the coming into existdivision albeit, not that it should be restricted to but it can no longer change now because it is ence of the three senatorial districts arrangement. only Abia South Senatorial District. our turn. Give the Governorship to Abia South He argued that the founding fathers never en“We are looking at equity here, is it not? If that come 2015, there is no way anybody can change visaged three zones otherwise they would have is the case, this is a perfect document prepared the game, Theodore Orji knows this. made provision for it. for us for the sake of equity, justice and fairness. “ If he has power to choose, he should choose He said if care is not taken, the call for the next The objective is to make sure that everybody has somebody from Abia South. We, the Ukwa governor to come from Abia South Senatorial a sense of belonging. This idea of Abia North, people, support him. What we are asking for District could be exploited by those who are Abia Central and Abia South are not in the Charmust be done for us”, he had challenged the waitng in the wings for any slip by the staketer, what we have is Bende and Aba. people. holders from Aba. “Ngwa is one indivisible people. I mean indi“This call is not only divisive but contentious. visible underlined. Ngwa is Ngwa. If for any Problem of identity To the best of my knowledge, the rallying cry political reason some of us are now in Abia CenWhile some people from the state agree with Wabara that the time has come for the next governor to come from the old Aba Division, they faulted his reference to Abia South Senatorial District. A chieftain of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) told The Nation on condition of anonymity that, although Abia State may has three senatorial districts, but for the purposes of actualizing the ‘Abia Charter of Equity’, only two divisions exist in the state,

‘People who are calling for the next governor to come from Abia South are undermining the agreement that had been made in the past, especially with the present governor that after his term of office, that he would be succeeded by an Abian of Ngwa extraction. And this does not make any reference to any zone. Therefore, it would include the Ngwa people in Abia Central and the Ngwa people in Abia South. “Any person agitation for any other thing outside this is simply trying to cause mischief’

tral while others are in Abia South, we remain one united entity. We are Ngwa and nothing can change it any more. So, wherever the Ngwa man comes from he is an Ngwa man.

“Those who are agitating for the governor to come from only Abia South are not looking at equity. If they are looking for equity then they should talk aboutAba Division and not Abia South. Are they now saying that since Nsiala Ngwa North and South and Isisioma Ngwa are from Abia Central they are no longer part of Ngwa people or Aba? I hope you understand me? Does it make any sense? It is true that we are not political but we have the duty to protect the interest of all Ngwa people.”

Chief Victor Oti, vice chairman of Aba Union and lawyer, said that equity demands that the Aba division should produce the next governor since Bende has been the one ruling. “The creation of senatorial districts is a later development. Isiala Ngwa North and South and Isisioma Ngwa belong to Aba division. The basic foundation upon which the state was created is two major blocks of Bende andAba. Therefore, the quest for the governor of Abia State in 2015 is a quest for all Ngwa people irrespective of where they belong or are living”, he said.

Another source in the state told The Nation that the latest development of trying to limit the ticket for the governorship to only Abia South is not only mischievious but a classic example of the politics of exclusion. The source vouched that the political players are pretty certain that the incumbent will honour his words and promise to them, therefore, they want to quickly ‘corner’ the position for selfish reasons.

“This is what we are talking about; these people see a governor who is ready to honour his words and promise. Perhaps they are sure that he would do what he promised; they want to corner the position early enough.

“How come the same people, when they are agitating for the creation of Aba State, included these three local government areas but now that there is some level of assurance than ever for the governor to come from Ngwa in 2015, they are suddenly driving away Isiala Ngwa North and South and Osisioma Ngwa as belonging to Abia Central Senatorial Disrict?

“In all the memoranda and documents relating to the creation of Aba State, the agitators included Isiala Ngwa North and South and Osisioma Ngwa local government areas as part of the proposed Aba State on the basis of the fact that they are one and the same with their kit and kin in Abia South”.

Can Orji implement charter?

But for the seemingly wrong categorization of the issue at stake, which political opponents of Abia Governor of Ngwa extraction project could exploit to their detriment, there is much hope for its realisation. It was learnt on good authority and as attested to by various stakeholders from the state who spoke in confidence that at no time in the history of the state exists a sure commitment by a governor to give meaning to the spirit of the Abia Charter of Equity.

In the words of one of the stakeholders: “The present governor is committed. He has said it in different fora. When he went to the US he even said it that he would like to hand over to an Ngwa man. Mark you, the operative word is an ‘Ngwa man’ not a man from Abia South.

And you know that he is an experienced administrator. He will not say what he cannot defend. As the governor, he is the father of all of us and he knows what justice means. But if for any reason, the people concerned choose to divide their own ranks, there will be little the governor can do in such a circumstance. But I can tell you that he is committed to it. He is a man of his words and we are happy about that”, the source said.

Another stakeholder said: “It is left for the Ngwa masquerades to dance well, if they fail, the shame will not be for the state or the governor, it will be for them. But our prayer is that the project comes out well.”

Will power shift to Ngwa in 2015? Time will tell.

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THE NATION FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2013

POLITICS Kwara State Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed spoke with ADEKUNLE JIMOH on the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) crises, national insecurity and other partisan issues.

Anambra 2014: Ngige, Ekwunife, Ubah begin mobilisation

‘Amnesty to Boko Haram should be conditional’

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HAT is your reaction to the allegation that you and some PDP governors are planning to defect from the party?

In Nigeria, we play politics with everything. It is not true that I am planning to leave the PDP. It does not make sense for me to leave the PDP for another party. PDP is the biggest party in Africa. Why would I be dumping a big party for a small party? It does not make sense to me, personally. Why would I move from a national party to a regional party? As it is today, PDP is the biggest party in Africa and the only national party. Other parties are regional. And by the grace of God Almighty, it is the ruling party in Kwara State. So, there are the reasonswhy I will continue to remain in the PDP. I will continue to strengthen the PDP because it is the only fair platform today that has been able to manage its differences. Other parties also have differences, which have reduced them to the regional levels they are.

They all started as national parties, but became regional levels because they could not manage their differences. We take opinions and try to correct our stance because we do not have monopoly of wisdom. We are open to corrections from well meaning Nigerians who can suggest alternative ways by which we can deliver service.

Plans are underway to grant amnesty to the members of the Boko Haram sect. What is your opinion?

It is unfortunate that, in Nigeria of today, we are faced with an unprecedented security challenge. I must commend the Federal Government in its effort to check all sorts of violence, whether in form of Boko Haram or attack on ethnic groups as we have in the clash between ethnic nationalities and nomads. We have other security challenges in forms of kidnapping, attack on Federal Government installations such as crude oil pipelines. They require a very critical look.

Amnesty is very simple. What do we mean by amnesty? It means that we should pardon those who have committed crimes against the state.

That is what it means. Start with our brothers and sisters in the Southsouth.

They had a grievance about degradation of their environment, largely from exploration and exploitation. On the strength of that, they felt that they needed something to make them feel part and parcel of the country, hence they tried to frustrate the lifting of crude oil.

The Federal Government suggested amnesty for the militants at that time.

It could be recalled that when amnesty was suggested for the militants, it was vehemently opposed by Nigerians who wanted to know why we give amnesty to those who have wilfully

taken up arms to destroy Federal Government and oil companies’ installations?

However, it became clear that the path to amnesty was a possible path to peace because the whole essence was to achieve peace. When there is peace, then we can talk about justice.

When we talk about justice we can now talk about equity.

Peace has to come first. As we have it today, there is an insurgence of an Islamic group in the North in the name of Boko Haram. We all know that it has nothing to do with Islam because, for those of us who are Muslims, we know very well that there is nothing that they preach that is in consonance with the tenets of Islam.

Everything they stand for negates the very principle and policy of Islam.

However, they have engaged in wanton destruction of lives and property of innocent Nigerians. The question is: how do we arrest this situation?

What were the problems that led these young men into taking up arms along with non-Nigerians to create havoc on our people? Destroying everything we stand for, trying to create problems that could probably escalate into civil war. We begin to see the relevance of amnesty, forgiveness of this group of people. What is the cause of amnesty and what is the result of amnesty, if we grant it? What have they brought to the table that they stand for? The Southsouth youths came out with an environmental degradation issue, joblessness, lack of infrastructure. It was understood. It was clear.

And there were negotiations and amnesty was brought in. Since then, we have a peaceful environment, at least in our context.

Amnesty is desirable for the Boko Haram to the extent that they are able to bring to the fore, the issues they have against the system. These are the areas they think they have been shortchanged as a people, as Nigerians.

Then, we can begin to look at what manner of peace and pardon will be made available to this class of people.

We can then come together again and move on as a people. So, it is neither here nor there. We cannot stand up and say amnesty is not desirable or amnesty is desirable. We must begin to look at the issues that will determine whether they deserve amnesty or not. Let us see, firstly, the face of the people we are speaking with.

Secondly, what is their grievance against the system? What is it that they have against innocent women and children that they are throwing bombs at? What is it that they feel should be done rightly that is not done right?

This implies that the concept of dialogue should come in first. When dialogue comes in, then, the issue of amnesty will follow. I feel that with that

From Nwanosike Onu, Awka

A

• Ahmed

kind of approach, we will begin to see some succour coming to our people that find themselves in this tough terrain where there is a high level of insecurity and they cannot on their strength carry out their normal activities. We need to give it a critical look. To the extent that we are facing a challenge which we have never seen before, we must approach it in a way and manner we have never done before.

If we begin to allow the thing to be politicised, that is, these are Muslim dissidents, or these are a group of aliens or these are just people who are just out to create problems and we try to shove them away with a wave of the hand, we will not be solving the problem. The cost of peace is not too much.

To the extent that I do not support amnesty for every group that comes up, having gone into willful destruction of lives and property, having gone into creating problems for the country and now, we begin to see it as a way of getting our own share of the national cake. It should not be misunderstood. Because, before you know it, another group will stand up in one other guise, create mayhem and ask for amnesty. On the strength of that, an armed robber could as well ask for amnesty. So let us be very careful about how we design amnesty.

We must understand what is on the table. Whoever is talking about amnesty, must bring something to the table.We will then look at it and see how they fit into driving us as a nation to desired level of progress and growth in the comity of nations.

The Federal Government is assisting the state in the area of road construction...

The issue of roads cannot be taken for granted, especially as it relates to economic growth and safety for our people.

On the strength of that, from the inception of our administration we’ve taken it upon ourselves to ensure that all our state and rural roads are put to proper useable levels. We have also made several efforts in getting all Federal Government roads rehabilitated and made motorable for our people in Kwara State. Our effort is already yielding fruits.

We have drawn attention to the IlorinKabba Road that is in a state of disrepair. This has not only hindered movement of our people but also encouraged armed robbers to attack vehicles plying the road.

HEAD of the governorship election in Anambra State, there are four top contenders aspiring to succeed Governor Peter Obi. They have been campaigning across the 21 local government areas.

The aspirants are former Governor Chris Ngige, who is representing the Central District in the Senate, House of Representatives member from the Anaocha,/Njikoka/Dunukofia Constituency Hon. Uche Ekwunife, Senator Andy Uba, and the businessman, Dr. Ifeanyi Ubah.

Ngige is contesting on the platform of the Action congress of Nigeria (ACN). Ekwunife and Ubah belong to the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA). Uba is a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Other light weight aspirants are playing hide and seek game. The only thing that shows that they are scheming for the position is that they are collecting chieftaincy titles in the communities.

Ekwunife has set up her campaign teams in three local governments; Anaocha, Njikoka, and Dunukofia. She told our correspondent that the campaign teams for other councils would be inaugurated next week. The federal legislator has already branded her campaign vehicles.

Also, Ngige has declared that he was battle ready. Already, the ACN senator had doled out over N300 million to his followers. He also gave the party and many supporters cars and money.

Besides, Ngige and Ekwunife had held consultations with the traditional rulers in the 21 local governments on their ambitions. They said that since they would not contest the poll in the Diaspora, they had to be close to the communities.

Ngige said: “It is operation totality and earth quake. I do not need any further introduction in the state and I believe in doing things early enough.”

Ekwunife said: “My brother, delay is dangerous. Some of us who are close to our people should be able to tell them where we are going, what we are doing. I see no reason why I should be contesting election in Anambra and I will be staying in Abuja everyday. But I will love to attend to the sittings in the House of Representatives. That is the only thing to keep me there”.

• Ekwunife

‘APC ‘ll liberate Nigeria’ From Damisi Ojo, Akure

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NDO State Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) chieftain Mr. Tunde Imolehin has warned the Federal Government and the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) against interfering in the activities of the electoral commission. He said the allegation that they were making moves to prevent the registration of the All Progressive Congress (APC) was worrisome.

Imolehin said that the merger of progressive parties would strengthen democracy and good governance because there will be a viable opposition after the merger.

The politician who spoke in Akure said the days of the PDP in power were numbered.

He added: “Even, the progressives in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) know that a merger is the only option now because of its collateral strength.

APC will come alive, especially when it is supported by many progressive governors who are party leaders in their respective states.”

Imolehin lamented the poor state of the economy, pointing out that the woes have been aggravated by corruption.

He said the situation in Ondo State mirrored the ineptitude at the centre, urging the people of the state to take their destiny in their hands.

Imolehin added: “The last governorship election was full of irregularities.

ACN did not loose that poll. Its third position was premeditated, but with the proceedings at the tribunal, the party will triumph because there was a precedence”.

My plan for Ekiti, by Aluko

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KITI State Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship aspirant Senator Gbenga Aluko has unfolded his plans for the state.

He said industrialisation and infrastructural development will be the priority of his administration, if elected as the governor in the forth-coming election.

The Ode-Ekiti-born politician represented Ekiti South Senatorial District in the Upper Chamber of the National Assembly between 1999 andf 2003. He defeated Prince Dayo Adeyeye of the Alliance for Democracy (AD).

At the PDP primaries, Aluko will face no fewer than 14 aspirants, including the former governor, Mr. Ayodele Fayose, the former deputy governors, Chief Abiodun Aluko from Ikere-Ekiti, Mrs. Abiodun Olujimi and Mr. Bisi Omoyeni; Minister of Police Affairs Navy Capt. Caleb Olubolade (rtd), Prince Adeyeye, and former House of Representatives member, Mr. Aribisala.

Aluko, who spoke in Ado-Ekiti, the state capital, said that infrastructural development will enhance industrialisation and attract investors to Ekiti State.

He called for power shift to the South District, saying that the zone has been marginalised.

The politician pointed out that, since 1999, the district has not produced the governor, urging the PDP to zone the slot to the area in the spirit of equity, fairness and justice.

•Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi, (left) receiving a letter of condolence from Katsina State Deputy Governor, Alhaji Abdullahi Faskari, over the dealth of his deputy Mrs. Funmilayo Olayinka, in Ado-Ekiti... yesterday.

THE NATION FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2013

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Accident victim for surgery in India FTER a car crash in 2004 left her with a badly fractured leg, Mrs Ndifreke Godwin, a native of Mbak Itam in Akwa Ibom State, now has a chance to walk normally again.

That chance was provided by the Eunice Development Foundation (EDF), operated by The Apostolic Mount Olive Church in the state.

The foundation sponsored Mrs Godwin’s corrective surgery in India.

When she had the accident in August 2004, she was rushed to Barry White Memorial Hospital (BMH) unconscious. She lost so much blood. The situation at the hospital was so critical that she was said not to be not responding to treatment. She was referred to Enugu Hospital where it was recommended that the leg be amputated.

She declined, saying that help will come one day and she would walk normally again.

Upon her discharge from the hospital in Enugu, she was referred to Rehoboth Hospital in Port Harcourt for another round of surgery. A comprehensive surgery was carried out, with one of her lumber bones used to replace her tibia. Still, she had no respite.

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MIDDLE-AGED man, Smart Jack of Abonnema, headquarters of AkukuToru Local Government Area of Rivers State, has said that telecom scammers defrauded him of N300, 000. While he was still brooding over the misfortune, it was discovered that other members of this coastal community also lost various sums of money to the scammers.

Mr Jack disclosed this at the Abonnema Town Hall during the Nigerian Communications Commission’s (NCC’s) Eighth Consumer Town Hall Meeting. The theme of the meeting was “Protection of Telecom Infrastructure.”

Representatives of some service providers attended the meeting.

Jack said he received a call on his MTN line, adding that the caller eventually defrauded him and many others of money totalling N1 million. He asked the NCC to do something about the ugly development so that subscribers would not lose their

Ukata, a lawyer and member of the foundation’s welfare department, presented $2,000 and travelling documents to Mrs Godwin and her husband

By Mike Akpan

In one of the church services, the General Overseer of the church, Apostle David Udo Udo told her it was her life that the devil was after, and that she should be happy she was alive. He also promised to send her to India for surgery.

Apostle Udo lived up to his promise.

•Ukata presents a cheque to Mrs Godwin Speaking to reporters, Mr Chile Ukata, who represented the foundation, appreciated the vision of the General Overseer to help the lessprivileged, saying the EDF has dug boreholes for communities in Cross River State, distributed wrap-

pers to widows and the needy as well as built a bungalow for a widow in Akwa Ibom State.

During the floods of last year, the church sent a team of welfare committee members to the Ahoada camps for displaced persons and

presented them with relief materials.

Ukata, who is a lawyer and member of the foundation’s welfare department, presented a cash of $2,000 and travelling documents to Mrs Godwin and her husband.

Rivers community bemoans fraudsters’ rampage From Bisi Olaniyi, Port-Harcourt

hard-earned money to fraudsters anymore.

The NCC’s Executive Commissioner, Stakeholders Management, Okechukwu Itanyi, noted that there are scammers everywhere who set up parallel networks and reach subscribers faster. He urged the people to be careful to avoid being victims of fraudsters.

The NCC boss also noted that the scammers dupe individuals and corporate organisations. He urged subscribers to always verify their information.

Itanyi, who was represented by NCC’s Assistant-Director, Consumer Affairs Bureau, Dr. Femi Atoyebi, lamented that telecoms installations across Nigeria were being vandalised daily by criminals. He condemned the spate of

bomb attacks on telecoms infrastructure; especially in the northern part of the country.

He said: “There have been numerous challenges, revolving around tariff and quality of service, power and vandalisation of telecoms infrastructure.

“The vandalisation of telecoms infrastructure and equipment has become a worrisome development in Nigeria’s highly competitive telecoms market.

“This act of vandalism could send negative signals to investors that Nigeria is not a safe place to do business. Security concern is one of the several considerations that could potentially discourage foreign and local investments.

“The advent of GSM in Nigeria has significantly enhanced the lives of Nigerians, individually and collectively, even as it has stimulated economic growth and facilitated cross-industry linkages and improving efficiency.

“Nigeria’s telecoms sector has witnessed phenomenal growth in the last decade and has emerged as the leading mobile telephony market in Africa, in terms of subscriber base and revenue.

“The resultant increase in investor confidence led to an abundant inflow of foreign direct investment (FDI), which provided the financial lubricant required to sustain growth and expansion in network infrastructure and services deployment in the country.”

Itanyi also stated that in order for telecoms services to be delivered effectively and efficiently, it required building of infrastructure, upon which voice data and video services would be delivered to telecoms subscribers.

The NCC boss stressed that in most countries, transmission infrastructure for telecoms serv-

ices, such as fibre cable links and power supply were built and provided by the government. But in Nigeria, telecoms operators build the required infrastructure for effective service delivery.

Mr Damian Udeh who is Etisalat’s Regulatory Affairs Manager lamented the vandalisation of the company’s equipment and stealing of its generators, equipment and diesel at the base stations. He described the situation as unfortunate.

Speaking in the same manner, MTN’s Iyasi Afam said the company’s equipment and cables had, on many occasions, been vandalised and stolen, even as he added that personnel of the company have been harassed by local government officials over payment of tenement rates and levies.

127 indigent students get scholarship

•Continued from Page 17

Ambassadors had spent more than N50 million in the scholarship scheme, adding that they want to extend it to other states in the near future.

Also speaking, the state coordinator of Transform Nigeria Movement, Comrade Obi Ochije told reporters that what they are doing is in line with the policy of the Obi administration in developing the state.

He said, “All hands are on deck to give Awka capital city a facelift and moreover, the less privileged people in the society will not be

•Midwives at their orientation course in Kaduna

left out and not only indigent students but also the widows’’.

The ACN lawmaker, Hon Kenechukwu Chukwuemeka, told reporters that the aim of the 22year-old club is to bring enduring peace and unity not only in Awka but the entire Anambra State.

“I am interested in peace, unity and development of this town; since our childhood days, we have never had it so good like this for like-minds coming together to lift the city,” the lawmaker said.

THE NATION FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2013

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Uduaghan advises Ijaw to shun violence From Shola O’Neil, Warri

•Governor Uduaghan

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ELTA State Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan has cautioned the Ijaw of Egbema/Gbaramatu kingdoms against violence and other unlawful acts as a way of expressing their grievances.

The governor spoke during the inauguration of executive members of Egbema/Gbaramatu Communities Development Foundaction (EGCDF) at Hotel Excel, Effurun, Uvwie Local Government Area of the state.

Speaking through his Senior Special Assistant on Community Affairs, Mr. Vincent Omorie, he said the state government is delighted that since the creation of the EGCDF through a Global Memorandum of Undertanding between the people and Chevron Nigeria Limited, there has been peace within the communities in the two kingdoms and assured of government readiness to continue to work with the body.

Speaking in the same vein, Mr. Deji Haastrup, General Manager, Policy, Government and Public Affairs said the event was significant in two main ways: “It re-affirms the commitment of the NNPC/ Chevron Joint Venture to partnering with the communities in the areas of its operations for socio-economic development through the Global Memorandum of Understanding (GMoU) while maintaining its policy of non-interference in their internal affairs, including the selection of their leaders and representatives. It also confirms that the EGCDF and its

constituent communities and the other Regional Development Committees (RDCs) have solid processes of appointing their leaders under the GMoU framework.”

While reiterating that the GMoU is not only meeting its objectives, but has also become a choice model for sustainable socio-economic development that is imitated by other organizations globally, he said it is a development model that is driven by the communities through a participatory approach that involves all stakeholders.

They commended the solid foundation laid by previous leaders which brought about peace and development and urged the new ex-

ecutive to live up to its billing.

In his acceptance speech, the new Chairman of EGCDF, Chief Michael Johnny, assured the people of Egbema-Gbaramatu, Chevron Nigeria Limited and government at all tiers of cordial working relationship, and to bring more development to the different communities.

“We shall embark on execution of projects across all communities, but we must ensure to live in harmony, and put aside personal interest in order for the foundation to make much progress.

“We did not elect ourselves, rather the various communities elected us to serve you. So, I can

We shall embark on execution of projects across all communities, but we must ensure to live in harmony, and put aside personal interest in order for the foundation to make much progress

assure you all that it is what the people want us to do that we shall do. My government is going to be people oriented, and for the people”.

On his part, the out-going chairman, Mr. E. E. Doyah-Tiemo implored the new executive to continue to employ the instrument of peace and dialogue as a means of meeting the crying needs of communities. He, however, called on the people to give their unreserved support to the new leadership to succeed.

Those elected along Chief Michael Johnny (chairman) are; Apostle Sunny Jero (Vice Chairman), Comrade Jude Ukori (Gen. Secretary), Austine Ojo (Asst. Secretary), Hon Sunny Abilo (PRO), Alex Bubor (Asst. PRO), Hon. Silva James (Fin. Secretary) and Chief Godspower Gbenekama (Communication Director).

Others are Sheriff Mulade (Treasurer), Gloria Grikpa (Provost), Chief B. E. Tiemo (Mobilization and Advocacy), Mrs Ati Edith Odafe, Mrs. Beauty Warizowie Mr. Segun Ebiwei and Chief Aweh December.

Residents rue property loss on pipeline route

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ESIDENTS of Ikotun and Ijegun in Igando/Ikotun Local Council Development Area of Lagos who live along the Pipeline have expressed their misgivings over the demolition of their properties by the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) without sufficient notice.

The demolition exercise affected owners of structures built on the right of way of the NNPC pipelines who refused to heed to earlier warnings from the corporation to move away from the right of way of the pipelines.

So, they came face to face with two bulldozers from the NNPC which pulled down structures that stood on the right of way of the NNPC pipelines.

Residential buildings, churches, mosques, walls, stores, kiosks and other makeshift structures that extended beyond the stipulated line for the pipelines were destroyed by the menacing bulldozers.

Before they could blink, the bulldozers had started pulling down their precious structures. The pillaging continued until late in the day.

In confusion, people scurried to evacuate their properties. Some which could not be evacuated were seen among the rubbish heaps. The bulldozers had reduced the offending walls, stores and intruding living apartments to piles of rubble.

By the time they finished for the day, the once-boisterous and bubbly area, wore a lonely forlorn look. Features that made the pipeline milieu attractive are now nothing but memories. They no longer count for anything; as they gave way for the normal straight roadway.

While narrating their ordeals,

By Chinaka Okoro

there were tell-tale signs of hopelessness and helplessness in the voices of those who spoke to Newsextra. Their voices, shrilled with anger and distress, pierced the dense atmosphere which has become charged with some of the victims’ lamentations. Tiny drops of water formed like beads on their faces expressive of pain and resignation.

Among the victims displaced by the exercise and who were in a flutter of disquiet and confusion, there was a rumble and a grumble of suppressed anger. Many of the displaced persons huddled up in groups. They looked downcast and worn out. Some others were in pains and anguish, gnashing their teeth and gazing into illimitable distance while others, with chins in palms, looked confused and sober.

When asked whether they were given enough notice by the NNPC before the demolition of illegal structures on the right of way of pipeline locations, majority of those affected by the exercise who spoke to Newsextra in confidence, said they were not given sufficient notice or information concerning the planned demolition exercise.

For instance, a member of a mosque that was affected by the exercise who pleaded anonymity told Newsextra that “there was not enough notice that our property which had initially been marked for demolition would be pulled down on a particular day. If they had given us enough time, we would have made alternative arrangements.”

Another resident of the area Mr. Sunday Ekong former Travel Man-

Petroleum products are highly inflammable and when people build structures on them, it becomes very dangerous to live on because they may become combustible and cause bodily harm to the residents. One also believes that it is part of the Present government’s transformation agenda

•The bulldozer roared past this place ager of the Daily Times said: “Though we feel pained about the loss of properties, since it’s about development and our safety, we have to accept it in good faith.”

On the issue of notice, he said that the NNPC had, since 2007 when there was pipeline explosion at Ijegun which claimed so many lives and property, started mounting pressure on the residents to move away completely from the right of way of the pipelines locations.

He said: “To be objective and fair to the NNPC, it has kept on reminding residents along Pipeline Street of the need to move away from the pipeline zone for safety.

To me, enough notice had been given. But it is not that the residents affected were recalcitrant or willfully refused to obey instructions. It could be a matter of nonavailability of easy alternative, judged by the economic situation in the country.

“Even though one may feel sad seeing properties erected with heard-earned money destroyed, as long as it’s for development and safety, one should not have any-

thing against the government.”

Justifying the action, an official of the NNPC who would not want his name mentioned for lack of competence to comment on the matter told Newsextra that “the residents had been served notice of government’s intention for several times but they seemed to ignore them.”

When contacted for comment on the issue, Col. Ibiba Briggs of the Nigerian Army Corps of Engineers, Bonny Camp, Lagos said the Nigerian Army Corps of Engineers

was only contacted to help in supervising the “operation maintain the right of way of the pipeline installations by the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC).”

Col. Briggs maintained that the action by the NNPC was for public good, even as he said that “when there was pipeline explosion in Ijegun in Ikotun, lots of lives were lost and property worth millions of Naira lost. One believes that NNPC’s decision to clear the right of way of the pipelines was taken for safety reasons.

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I felt bad when I visited the school last year and saw the appalling condition of the science laboratories in the school. When I was here as a student, there was a functional library equipped with books and the laboratories were well equipped

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ORMER Minister of Power, Prof. Barth Nnaji has paid a visit to his alma mater St. Patrick’s College, Emene Enugu. He was accompanied on the visit by some members of the old students association of the school led by its National President, Chief Clement Okwor.

It was a memorable visit during which they discovered that the school which shaped their destinies had remarkably dilapidated. The school was almost in ruins. Classrooms, laboratories and dormitories were deteriorated, a situation they blamed on government’s take-over of schools. The school lacked science laboratories.

All equipment in the once-well equipped science laboratory had disappeared altogether.

This particular scenario touched the former minister.

Nnaji wondered how such a dilapidated school could produce quality students.

Right there, the former minister promised to undertake the renovation of the buildings housing the science laboratories. Not only the renovation of the building; he also promised to equip the laboratories with the most modern science equipment.

That promise was fulfilled as the science laboratories consisting of physics, chemistry, biology and agricultural science were unveiled and inaugurated.

During the occasion, the school which was recently returned to the original owners, the Catholic Church, was in festive mood. The students were in their best while the Catholic Diocese of Enugu ensured that the event was a memorable one by providing the necessary logistics.

While inspecting the laboratories, the representative of the Catholic Bishop of Enugu, Monsignor Luke Adike was full of gratitude so much so that he exclaimed: “These are above secondary schools laboratories. It’s the first of its kind in this part of the country.”

In addition to the science laboratories, there was a computer laboratory with 100 laptop computers unveiled and inaugurated by Prof.

Nnaji. Nnaji said to the students: “I felt bad when I visited the school last year and saw the appalling condition of the science laboratories in the school. When I was here as a student, there was a functional library equipped with books and the laboratories were well equipped.

“It was here that I was molded and that was why I became an engineer today. I did practical experiences of

•Prof Barth Nnaji cutting the tape

Ex-minister lifts alma mater From Chris Oji, Enugu

almost all subjects during my secondary school period.

“Whatever you take here will make you what you will be tomorrow. Your tomorrow is being shaped today. The world today is a world of science. Aeroplanes, computers, televisions, medicines and so on are all as a result of science.

“If you have these laboratories, you are going to be good in science.

Learning science will help students know much; even those who are not science-inclined will benefit a lot by having some knowledge of science.”

Nnaji thanked Governor Sullivan Chime for his wisdom in handing the schools over to their original owners.

President of St. Patrick’s College, Emene Old Boys’ Association Chief Clement Okwor thanked Prof. Nnaji for fulfilling all his promises to the school which included provision of transformer, science and ITC laboratories.

Okwor, who was the former Head of Service in Enugu State, described

the new laboratories as the best school laboratories in Enugu State.

During the High Mass which preceded the inauguration, Monsignor Luke Adike who represented Bishop Callistus Onaga lamented the gross decay in infrastructure and equipment in secondary schools since the government forcible took over f schools from their original owners.

He recalled the efforts of the mis-

sionaries who built the schools for us to become professionals in our different endeavours; only for the government to seize the schools and neglect them.

He praised the good nature of Prof.

Nnaji in single-handedly providing the learning equipment for the school, even as he said it was for the benefit of the leaders and citizens of tomorrow.

He prayed that God would continue to bless Prof. Nnaji in his selfless service to the society. He called on other well-to-do old students of the school to emulate Prof. Nnaji and do more for the school.

The Principal of the school, Rev. Fr. Chijioke Eze who expressed his joy also blessed and thanked Prof.

Nnaji for his kind gesture. He promised that he would do everything within his ability to ensure that the students put the laboratories to good use.

Japan boosts child survival in Nigeria

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HE United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) has received a grant of about N443 million for the prevention of infectious child diseases in Nigeria. Donated by the Government of Japan, the grant was meant to strengthen routine immunisation, including the cold chain system.

Although Nigeria is making progress in reducing high child mortality rates, persisting challenges need to be addressed if Nigeria is to achieve the health-re-

•Chairman, Ikeja Local Government, Hon Wale Odunlami receiving the Award of Excellence in Public Service from the coordiantor, the Citinet International Organisation, Mr Ola Akintonwa

lated MDGs. Childhood killer diseases are still rampant, though preventable. The level of child mortality can be reduced with simple interventions such as immunisation and other child survival interventions delivered in an integrated manner.

This year’s contribution from the Government of Japan will be used to procure cold chain equipment such as solar refrigerators to fill existing gaps. This will boost routine immunisation efforts as well as the drive toward polio eradication, especially in the context of introduction of new vaccines.

In addition, the grant will support the operational cost of strategies to reduce the number of unimmunised children. A strong routine immunisation system is a major foundation for polio eradication and must be on the agenda of all development partners.

“Japan’s grant to Nigeria to combat infectious diseases in children has been a significant contribution to Nigeria’s efforts to reduce child mortality. This included the expansion of the cold chain system to the health facility level; malaria con-

trol programmes; as well as a final push to stop the transmission of the wild poliovirus in Nigeria.

The support from Japan remains a most valuable contribution to our joint efforts to give every Nigerian child a fighting chance to survive,” said Mr. Jacques Boyer, Deputy Representative and Officer in Charge, UNICEF Nigeria.

Since 2000, the Government of Japan has been a major donor in support of child survival interventions in general and infectious diseases prevention in children in Nigeria in particular, through the UNICEF/Federal Government of Nigeria Programme of Cooperation.

“The people of Japan remain committed to the welfare of Nigerian children,” Mr Ryuichi Shoji Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to Nigeria said.

Continuing, he said: “Over 13 years, we have worked with Nigeria and supported the country’s efforts to achieve the MDGs. We will continue to take actions to help Nigeria consolidate and sustain gains made in child survival.”

The people of Japan remain committed to the welfare of Nigerian children… Over 13 years, we have worked with Nigeria and supported the country’s efforts to achieve the MDGs. We will continue to take actions to help Nigeria consolidate and sustain gains made in child survival

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NEWS Awka businessmen protest From Nwanosike Onu, Awka

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•Obaze (right) and Ms Oraedum addressing the protesters at the Government House...yesterday

Two dead as Anambra, Kogi boundary crisis worsens D

ESPITE efforts by the governments of Anambra and Kogi states to restore peace to Aguleri-Otu in Anambra State and Echonwa/Ideke in Kogi State, the dispute between the two boundary communities escalated yesterday.

Sporadic gunshots were heard in the troubled area, even as the casualty figures could not be ascertained.

The Nation learnt that several people have been killed and property worth millions of naira lost since renewed hostility began in the disputed area two weeks ago.

Addressing reporters at his palace, the Igwe of Aguleri, Christopher Idigo, said his people’s patience was running out.

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From Nwanosike Onu, Awka

He said two of their kinsmen, Obalum Udealor and Onyeka Nnebe, who were abducted when the people of Ibaji invaded Aguleri Otu two weeks ago, were confirmed dead yesterday.

“When they came to attack our people yesterday, they were telling us that they have eaten our brothers and this is heightening the tension in the area.”

The monarch added that in addition to the burnt houses, the invaders, believed to be from Kogi, also razed a primary school built by the Anambra State Government

‘We are enduring, but what pains us is that this shooting is taking place on our soil’ and other schools belonging to the Catholic church and a pentecostal church.

He said: “As we are talking, the people of Ibaji are shooting heavily at Okpeze, which is in Anambra East.

“It is not that we cannot retaliate but we are obeying

the directive of our governor, Peter Obi, that we should remain calm as the government is handling the situation.

“We are enduring, but what pains us is that this shooting is taking place on our soil.

“If the Federal Government does not want to intervene in this matter, it can as well allow us to handle the matter our own way so that government can come in later.

“There is an atmosphere of insecurity in the area and we also believe that taking up arms will never solve the problem.

“What we think can solve the problem is a roundtable discussion. That will bring lasting peace to the area.”

Drama as Imo AG, predecessor disrupt court proceeding

MO State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice Soronadi Njoku and his predecessor, Ken Njemanze, yesterday disrupted court proceedings in the case of former Deputy Governor Jude Agbaso and the House of Assembly, the Speaker, Clerk and the Chief Judge, when the duo engaged in am open confrontation.

It, however, took the intervention of other lawyers and law enforcement agents to restore normalcy to the court.

The Nation gathered that Njemanze was in court for a private business.

Counsel to the applicant Patrick Ikwueto (SAN) asked the court through Alex Williams to grant leave for the withdrawal of his notice of continuance filed on April 8.

He asked to file in its place a motion on notice for the leave of the court to discontinue the suit.

Alex Williams said because the motion was not contentious he would like to proceed with it.

Lead counsel to the first, second and third respondents Akintola Williams (SAN) acknowledged receipt of the notice before the court’s sitting.

He held that the matter had been argued, stressing that Order 3 Rule 2 does not apply in the matter.

Williams asked the court to

From Okodili Ndidi, Owerri

dismiss the matter.

In his submission, Njoku also admitted being served the motion on notice.

He contended that “the parties have exchanged all their processes, especially their affidavit.

“The effect in law is that evidence has been made.

What we have come to do today is to adopt our submission based on evidence laid before the court.”

He said the “proper order the court ought to make is an order of dismissal.”

At this point, Justice Florence Duruohaigwe asked the applicant whether he had made application or moved

the motion for withdrawal of the initial process filed on April 8 because, according to her, she did not record him as having formally moved the motion for the withdrawal of the matter.

Alex Williams said he accepted the record of the court on the matter, arguing that he wanted a date to enable the lead counsel to be present.

He said Ikwueto could not come to the court because he was indisposed.

At this response, the Attorney-General flared up, describing the action as irresponsible.

He said the counsel had earlier stated that he was in-

structed by the lead counsel to withdraw the matter only to deny again.

Njoku alleged that the former Attorney-General whispered to him not to accept withdrawal.

This led to an outburst between the commissioner and his predecessor.

Emotions became high that the judge left the court for about 15 minutes to allow the situation to normalise.

At the resumed sitting, she said she left the court because of the altercation.

Williams apologised for the behaviour of his colleagues. Each of them also apologised for the “embarrassing conduct.”

Justice Duruohaigwe adjourned the matter till June 4.

HE Anambra State Government yesterday warned those with business interests to stop maligning the government. It assured that their problems would soon be over.

The assurance followed the peaceful protest by Nnamdi Azikiwe Avenue Business Owners Association yesterday at the Government House in Awka over what they described as “triple taxation” by the State Waste Management Agency (ASWAMA).

The protesters were received by the Secretary to the State Government, Oseloka Obaze, Commissioner for Local Government Ms Azuka Enemo and Director of ASWAMA Ms Njideka Oraedum.

The group’s Vice-Chairman, Nze Ikechukwu Okafor, told the government delegation that the way government agents collect levy from them was appalling.

He said: “These things are becoming unbearable, because it seems the government wants us to turn to robbers and kidnappers.”

Obaze told the protesters that the government would not allow the rascality going on in the state to continue, adding that “the rascality has to stop”.

“We know that some government officials are involved in this act, but that is not the reason why government should be losing revenue every year.

“Governor Peter Obi is aware of what ASWAMA is doing and we are happy with it because Awka and Onitsha cannot continue to be dirty.

“It is your right to protest but not your right to challenge the government,” Obaze said.

Ms Oraedum said she had held a meeting with the business owners on the issue yet, there has been no sanity” She said throughout last year the only money the government received from Zik Avenue business owners was just N65,000, adding that the government had lost revenue.

“What they want is N1,500 flat rate, including filling stations, we cannot continue like that, this is not acceptable to the government.”

Police ‘arrest’ bishop, nuns

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HE police in Anambra State may have arrested a prominent Catholic bishop and some Indian nuns over the discovery of about 20 expectant teenagers and the alleged sale of a baby boy in a home, owned by the church.

The Nation yesterday sighted the bishop and the nuns at the State Criminal Investigation

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•Calls on elders to caution Umeh From Chris Oji, Enugu

Odumegwu-Ojukwu, as an “extremist”, during the APGA convention in Awka, Anambra State, on Monday.

Okwu said he wondered why Umeh should attribute falsehood to people.

He said: “I hereby call on his people to apologise on what was clearly falsehood, as I never at any point called Ojukwu an extremist or used an abusive word against him.”

He insisted that Umeh, “from the manner he talks and the way he behaves these days, needs an assemblage of Igbo elders to talk sense into him and restrict him from attacking anyone who disagrees with him.”

Speaking further, Okwu said Umeh should allow the spirit of Ojukwu to rest in peace instead of invoking it at any given time to attract public sympathy.

He begged Igbo elders to explain to him that the dead,

Awka

Department at 10am and shortly after, their phones went dead.

As at yesterday night, they had not left the station.

However, a source at the station said the bishop has been released after series of interrogation, but the nuns were yet to be released.

Ex-council boss’s wife kidnapped From Sunny Nwankwo, Aba

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HE wife of the former transitional committee chairman of Obingwa Local Government of Abia State, Onyekachi Nwulu, has been kidnapped.

Mrs. Glory Nwulu, a student of the State Polytechnic, Aba, was kidnapped at Umuodukwu in Ogbor-Hill on Wednesday in company of her husband and a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Commissioner of Police Usman Tilli Abubakar confirmed the incident yesterday.

“My men and other security operatives are in the bushes working to rescue the woman,” he said.

Abubakar urged the public to assist the police with useful information to rescue the woman.

The commissioner said the lady was kidnapped at the gate of her house while trying to drive into the compound after a violent attack by gunmen.

JTF releases seized vessels From Rosemary Nwisi, Port Harcourt

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PERATIVES of the Joint Military Task Force (JTF), yesterday released three boats held on suspicion of illegal oil bunkering in Rivers State to the owner, Tarinath Company Nigeria Limited.

The boats which included a barge: MT Frank, a vessel: MT PSV Deby and a Tugboat: MT Marebell II were impounded in January by JTF officials, while trans-loading petroleum products on the Bonny water ways.

It was gathered that the products belonged to the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC). especially people of The authorities of the Ojukwu’s calibre, deserve Defence Headquarters some respect. approved the release after Okwu said as the new investigations proved that chairman of APGA, one of the product was genuine. his cardinal points is reconAt the handover ceremony ciliation. on Bonny Island yesterday, He said he had led a team JTF spokesman Flt-Lt. Chris of APGA chieftains to visit Erondu said: “The release the founder of the party, being carried out today was Chekwas Okorie. informed by the “And from our discusconfirmation of laboratory sion, one could see that analysis that the product Chekwas Okorie has the potrans-loaded was genuine, litical interest of Igbo peoand the confirmation by the ple at heart, but everything Navy’s Pathfinder that the about Umeh is selfishness,” company has a licence to lift Okwu added. petroleum products.”

Okwu denies insulting Ojukwu ACTIONAL National Chairman of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) Maxi Okwu yesterday called on Igbo elders to caution the embattled national chairman, Victor Umeh, “against his penchant to blackmail anybody who differs with him.”

He spoke to reporters in Enugu while reacting to a statement credited to Umeh that he (Okwu) should apologise for insulting Ojukwu.

Umeh accused Okwu of describing the late APGA Leader, Dim Chukwuemeka

From Nwanosike Onu,

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THE NATION FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2013

EQUITIES NIGERIAN STOCK EXCHANGE

Equities lose N77b again

DAILY SUMMARY AS AT 11-04-13

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HE selling spree spurred by the dissatisfaction of financials of some quoted companies continued yesterday as the main index at the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) dropped by 0.59 per cent, indicating a loss of N77 billion.

The All Share Index (ASI), the main index at the NSE, dropped by 198.82 absolute points, representing 0.59 per cent depreciation to close at 33,466.76 points. Similarly, market capitalisation dropped by N77 billion, representing 0.71 per cent decline, to close at N10.698 trillion.

A total of 124 stocks were traded compared with 107 posted on Wednesday.

Thirty-one stocks closed lower than their opening figures as against 43 posted the previous day. The number however, improved on the gainers side with 22 stocks appreciating in value compared with 12 recorded previously while 71 closed flat.

On the price movement tables, Nigerian Aviation Handling Company led

By Tonia Osundolire

with an increase of N0.50 to close at N0.50 followed by Wapic Insurance with a growth of N0.12 to close at N1.39. Others were Unity Bank, IPWA, UTC, Diamond Bank, Julius Berger, Japaul, Ashaka Cement and Wema Bank.

On the losers, table, Ikeja Hotel led with a drop of N0.08 to close at N0.72 followed by Neimeth with a decrease of N0.09 to close at N0.81. Also on the table were Costain, AG Leventist, Academy Press, Prestige, AIICO, Air Services, ABC Transport and African Prudential Registrars.

The full year report of Mobil Oil Nigeria Plc and Total Nigeria Plc for 2012 were reported on Wednesday. For Total Plc, Revenue grew by 25.2 per cent from N173.95 billion posted in 2011 to N217.84 billion. The profit after tax grew by 22.6 per cent to N4.67 billion compared of N3.81 billion announced in 2011.

The company had earlier announced a dividend of N8.00 per share with closure

date of April 22, 2013.

Mobil‘s results revealed that revenue grew by 30.1 per cent to N80.8 billion compared to N62.1 billion posted in 2011.

As a result of increased cost of business, the profit after tax dropped by 29.4 per cent to N2.88 billion compared to N4.08 billion reported in 2011. The company had earlier announced a dividend of N5.00 per share.

The register of the company closes on April 30th.

Diamond Bank emerged the most traded stock on trade log. It sold 40.850 million shares valued at N243.936 million and exchanged in 376 deals.

African Prudential Registrars, FBN Holdings, Access Bank, UBA, Zenith Bank, Unity Bank, Fidelity Bank, Skye Bank and Transcorp followed in sequence.

The volume of shares transacted dropped to 375.907 million valued at N4.790 billion in 6,670 deals compared to 573.76 million valued at N5.85 billion traded in 7,232 deals in previous trading session.

The financial services sector still retained the lead with 294.160 million shares worth N2.237 billion in 4,011 deals.

Others with relatively high volume were consumer goods, conglomerates, services, oil & gas, industrial goods, agriculture and healthcare.

NIGERIAN STOCK EXCHANGE DAILY SUMMARY AS AT 11-04-13

THE NATION FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2013

55

MONEY LINK Money laundering: CIBN examines global initiatives

CBN opens bids for Disaster Recovery Solution

B

IDS for the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN’s) Informa tion Technology Disaster Recovery Solution (DRS) for its operations are now open for vendors to submit their bids.

In a statement on the CBN website, the apex bank said vendors expected to handle the project should have certified knowledge, verifiable capacity and experience in the data center industry.

The apex bank said it is retrofitting its Data Centres in its Head office and two other locations to achieve high availability and true disaster recovery capability that will enhance its operations.

The regulator said it is seeking to design, implement and commission an Information Technology disaster recovery solution and has invited sealed bids from bidders for the design, implementation and commissioning of the project.

It also requested that experts sub-

Stories by Collins Nweze

mit tenders for the design, implementation and commissioning of Information Technology DRS for its operations. It said that to fulfill its vision of being the best in class among the world’s central banks, the bank has deployed Information Technology (IT) infrastructure and enterprise applications to support its core business processes and enable delivery of its strategic objectives.

The CBN said it occupies a central position in the economic and social development of the country, adding that it has embarked on a technology refresh project to modernise its information technology infrastructure base.

The CBN earlier disclosed that it secured $510,000 grant from the United States Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) for the es-

Naira falls as investors sell bonds, equities

T

HE naira weakened the most in two weeks amid speculation that investors in Nigeria’s bond and equities market were demanding dollars to exchange profits made in the local currency.

Consequently, the naira depreciated as much as 0.2 per cent to N157.68 per dollar, the most since March 28, and traded at N157, according to data compiled by Bloomberg.

The local currency has retreated one per cent this year. The Nigerian Stock Exchange All Share Index fell 0.2 per cent, taking its loss this week to 2.1 per cent as it heads for the first fiveday decline in five weeks. ”There’s significant demand from investors who want to cash out of bonds and equities. The central bank

has increased the sale of dollars and the demand is “coinciding with the endof-year company earnings,” Jide Solanke, an analyst at Lagos-based First Securities Discount House Ltd., said.

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) sold $600 million this week, the biggest amount at its twice-a-week auctions in nine months. The CBN has enough reserves to defend the naira and “keep it where we want,” Governor Lamido Sanusi said in a March 24 interview in Lagos.

Nigeria’s foreign-currency reserves advanced 10 per cent to $48.7 billion this year, according to the institution’s data. Yields on Nigeria’s $500 million of Eurobonds due January 2021 dropped six basis points, or 0.06 percentage point, to four per cent.

tablishment of a DRC. The centre is expected to assist the apex bank fortify and protect e-payment transactions in the country.

It said the grant will be used to finance qualified US firm to provide expert consulting services in determining the technical requirements, business and operational models for the project.

Already, a vendor has been evaluated and selected by the CBN, which has also received a ‘letter of no objection’ from USTDA. Besides, he said the legal unit of the CBN is already drafting contract agreement that will be reviewed and binding on both parties.

He also said the banking watchdog is also developing modalities or work plan for implementation of shared tier-three Disaster Recovery Centre infrastruc-

T

• CBN Governor Sanusi Lamido

ture and services. The apex bank is also working on shared power infrastructure service to the banks and developing the Nigeria Financial services network (NFSN) to effectively achieve these objectives.

MasterCard reports $605m Q4 profit •Targets Nigeria, others for growth

M

ASTERCARD Incorpo rated has posted $605 million, fourth-quarter 2012. The profit, it told Bloomberg beat analysts’ estimates as customers made more purchases.

“It was a solid quarter capping a really solid year despite the economic challenges,” MasterCard Chief Financial Officer Martina Hund-Mejean said.

Chief Executive Officer Ajay Banga is fending off competitors Visa Incorporated and Shanghaibased China UnionPay as he seeks a larger share of the electronic payments processing market.

Banga is targeting developing

countries such as Myanmar, Ghana, Nigeria and Angola for growth amid a global consumer shift from cash to plastic. “We are gaining traction in our United States credit business with some recent wins, continuing to experience momentum in our mobile initiatives around the world, and securing important business in emerging markets like Africa and Brazil,” Banga said.

Profit comparisons were skewed by a $770 million expense tied to settling litigation with merchants taken in the fourth quarter of 2011.

Including that cost, earnings a year earlier were $19 million, or 15 cents a share.

FGN BONDS

DATA BANK

Tenor

Amount N

Rate %

M/Date

3-Year 5-Year 5-Year

35m 35m 35m

11.039 12.23 13.19

19-05-2014 18-05-2016 19-05-2016

WHOLESALE DUTCH AUCTION SYSTEM Amount Amount Offered ($) Demanded ($) 350m 150m 350m 138m 350m 113m

MANAGED FUNDS Initial Current Quotation Price Market N8250.00 5495.33 N1000.00 N552.20

NIDF NESF

OBB Rate Call Rate

Price Loss 2754.67 447.80

INTERBANK RATES 7.9-10% 10-11%

PRIMARY MARKET AUCTION (T-BILLS) Tenor 91-Day 182-Day 1-Year

Amount 30m 46.7m 50m

Rate % 10.96 9.62 12.34

Date 28-04-2012 “ 14-04-2012

GAINERS AS AT 11-04-13

SYMBOL NAHCO WAPIC UNITYBNK IPWA UTC DIAMONDBNK JBERGER JAPAULOIL ASHAKACEM WEMABANK

O/PRICE 5.08 1.27 0.64 0.70 0.71 5.67 51.00 0.61 24.50 1.34

C/PRICE 5.58 1.39 0.70 0.76 0.77 6.14 54.49 0.65 25.97 1.40

CHANGE 0.50 0.12 0.06 0.06 0.06 0.47 3.49 0.04 1.47 0.06

IKEJAHOTEL NEIMETH COSTAIN AGLEVENT ACADEMY PRESTIGE AIICO AIRSERVICE ABCTRANS AFRIPRUD

O/PRICE 0.80 0.90 2.40 1.31 2.05 0.62 0.82 4.28 0.86 1.70

C/PRICE 0.72 0.81 2.16 1.18 1.85 0.56 0.75 3.87 0.78 1.55

Exchange Rate (N) 155.2 155.8 155.7

Date 2-7-12 27-6-12 22-6-12

CAPITAL MARKET INDEX Currency

Year Start Offer

Current Before

C u r r e n t CUV Start After %

NGN USD NGN GBP

147.6000 239.4810

149.7100 244.0123

150.7100 245.6422

-2.11 -2.57

NGN EUR NIGERIA INTER BANK (S/N) (S/N) Bureau de Change (S/N) Parallel Market

212.4997

207.9023

209.2910

-1.51

149.7450

154.0000

154.3000

-3.04

152.0000

153.0000

155.5000

-2.30

153.0000

154.0000

156.0000

-1.96

Feb. ’11

July ’11

MPR

6.50%

6.50%

12%

Standing Lending Rate ,, Deposit Rate ,, Liquidity Ratio Cash Return Rate Inflation Rate

8.50% 4.50% 25.00% 1.00% 12.10%

8.50% 4.50% 25.00% 2.00% 12.10%

9.50% 5.50% 30.00% 2.00% 11.8%

July ’12

CHANGE NIBOR Tenor 7 Days 30 Days 60 Days 150 Days

NSE CAP Index

27-10-11 N6.5236tr 20,607.37

Rate (Previous) 4 Mar, 2012 9.0417 9.6667 11.2917 12.1250

Rate (Currency) 6, Mar, 2012 10.17% 11.46% 11.96% 12.54%

28-10-11 N6.617tr 20,903.16

% Change -1.44% -1.44%

MEMORANDUM QUOTATIONS Name

DISCOUNT WINDOW

0.08 0.09 0.24 0.13 0.20 0.06 0.08 0.41 0.08 0.15

Amount Sold ($) 150m 138m 113m

EXHANGE RATE 6-03-12

LOSERS AS AT 11-04-13

SYMBOL

HE Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) has concluded arrangements to examine some global Initiatives in Combating Money Laundering with a view to assisting the Federal Government in its efforts towards ensuring sound and secured financial system.

In a statement issued ahead of a conference with the theme: “Anti-Money Laundering Workshop” holding from April 16 to 17 in Abuja, the body said participants will also be discussing other subtopics such as Anti-Money Laundering Legislation in Nigeria; New Regulations and Guidance Notes: An Overview;Preparing for the Next Generation of Money Launderers; Mitigating Threats posed by m-payment and e-money; Counter Terrorist Financing: New Intelligence Methods to Detect, Deter and Disrupt Terrorist Financial Operationsm. It will also focus on Customer Due Diligence (CDD) and the Risk-Based Approach to Money Laundering.

It said the workshop will also enhance the experience and operational performance of compliance/money laundering reporting officers, branch/relationship managers of Banks and Other Financial Institutions; government regulators; compliance officers of the Nigeria Customs Service among others.

Offer Price

Bid Price

ARM AGGRESSIVE GROWTH 9.17 9.08 KAKAWA GUARANTEED 1.00 1.00 STANBIC IBTC GUARANTE 138.34 137.92 AFRINVEST W.A. EQUITY FUND 152.72 153.03 LOTUS CAPITAL HALAL 0.80 0.78 BGL SAPPHIRE FUND 1.14 1.14 BGL NUBIAN FUND 1.10 1.09 FBN MONEY MARKET FUND 100.00 100.00 FBN FIXED INCOME FUND 1,000.00 1,000.00 NIGERIA INTERNATIONAL DEB. 1,786.88 1,781.87 PARAMOUNT EQUITY FUND 15.58 14.82 CONTINENTAL UNIT TRUST 1.39 1.33 CENTRE-POINT UNIT TRUST 1.87 1.80 STANBIC IBTC NIG EQUITY 10,855.53 10,528.92 • ARM AGGRESSIVE • KAKAWA GUARANTEED • STANBIC IBTC GUARANTE • AFRINVEST W.A. EQUITY FUNDARM AGGRESSIVE

Movement

OPEN BUY BACK

Bank P/Court

Previous 04 July, 2012

Current 07, Aug, 2012

8.5000 8.0833

8.5000 8.0833

Movement

THE NATION FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2013

56

NEWS

APC: ANPP NEC endorses merger T

HE National Chairman of the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP), Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu, yesterday urged members of the party to support the merger with other progressive parties for the formation of theAll Progressives Congress (APC).

The ANPP chairman spoke in Abuja against the backdrop of the party’s National Executive Committee (NWC), which accepted the merger report.

The report was presented by former Kano State Governor Ibrahim Shekarau Onu told the NWC meeting that only APC can cure Nigeria of the ailments inflicted by the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

He advised all to put aside their differences and struggle for

From Gbenga Omokhunu and Grace Obike Abuja

a better future.

He said: “The merger we seek with other opposition parties is for the sake of our country. The point is simple: the more, the merrier; the bigger the number, the better for us. I believe the ANPP should be part of efforts made by committed democrats and resolute patriots to provide Nigerians with a broad, strong and a united alternative political party that can return power to our people and redefine the role of politics in our development process. Our party will benefit in such an arrangement because it will expand our horizon.

“This will make Nigerians to love us even more, because

they will see us as a body of honourable men and women who sacrificed self-gains in the pursuit of the happiness of their fellow citizens, the greatness of our beloved country.

“What achievement can be greater for us as leaders, when history will record us as soldiers of honour and champions of justice, who fought for freedom and liberty and placed others above self so that good governance will thrive in a more prosperous, more peaceful, more secure and a more united Nigeria?

“Distinguished leaders of our great Party, we must ask ourselves this simple question: why are we involved? Before we give an answer, we must think deeply. We must remember

the saying that the strength of a chain is determined by the strength of its weakest link. We must reflect on the reason why we are in politics. We must remember that Nigerians are anxious that the merger of the ANPP, Congress for Progression Change (CPC), Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) and others should work so that there can be competition in the political arena. We must remember that our country men and women are tired of misrule, poverty, joblessness, hunger, misery and insecurity.

“We must remember that they desire change and a new political order where no one political party can take them for granted, act with impunity, dis-

regard the laws of the nation and boast to remain in power for ever. Above all, we must remember that as things stand in our dear nation, only the APC has the ability to cure our dear nation of its headache and secure the happiness of our fellow country men and women, guarantee a better future for our beloved country as well as strengthen our great party as an equal partner in the marriage of like minds that will chart a better future for our beloved country.

“It is with the utmost humility that I urge you all to rise to the challenge, which recent events in our political development demand of us. We should resolve to be on the side of honour and integrity for the good of our country..”

Labour Ministry takes over SURE-P community service scheme From John Ofikhenua, Abuja

T

HE Permanent Secretary in the Federal Ministry of Labour and Productivity, Dr. Clement Illoh, has said the ministry would implement the objectives and target of the Community Service Scheme of the Subsidy Reinvestment and Empowerment Programme (SURE-P), which the Finance Ministry has handed over to the ministry.

Illoh, who spoke through the Director, Human Resources Management in the Ministry of Labour and Productivity, Mr. James Ogwuche, said: “The ministry will ensure a successful implementation of the scheme by also ensuring that the set targets are met.”

A statement yesterday in Abuja by the ministry’s Assistant Director, Press, Mr. Samuel Olowookere, said Ogwuche hailed Mr. Papka, the Project Director of Women and Youth Empowerment Project (CSWYE) in the Ministry of Finance, for effectively managing the scheme.

Each year, the Community Service Scheme (CSS), an arm of CSWYE of SURE-P, provides temporary jobs for unemployed youths, women and the vulnerable with a target of 5,000 people per state, including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

Papka recalled that the CSWYE project was initiated at the Ministry of Labour while the elaboration of its concept, project design and implementation were done at the Federal Ministry of Finance.

He added that the project was initiated under the Subsidy Reinvestment and Empowerment Programme (SURE-P) to ensure that the unemployed youths, the vulnerable and women benefit from the accrued proceeds of the partial withdrawal of fuel subsidy.

Papka added that the scheme had engaged 120,000 people from the 185,000 persons targeted for this year.

According to him, all transactions are done directly with the beneficiaries, while supervisors are expected to ensure that the beneficiaries work for the stipulated hours to earn their pay.

NDLEA uncovers 40.255kg drug in melon

By Kelvin Osa-Okunbor

O

PERATIVES of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) at the Murtala Muhammed International (MMA), Ikeja, Lagos, have foiled a plot to smuggle 40.255kilogrammes of methamphetamine to South Africa on board a South African Airline.

The drug was detected at the cargo section of the airport.

Forty-one parcels of the drug were found hidden inside ground melon packed with cosmetics and provisions.

NDLEA Airport Commander Hamza Umar said: “The drug was packaged in 41 parcels in white transparent polythene and hidden inside ground melon.

“Other items, such as sausages, biscuits, milk, body creams and food ingredients, were also in the package, to divert attention. We have impounded a Hummer Jeep, a Range Rover and a bus from suspected members of the cartel.”

The NDLEA chief said a suspect, Chidi Ihedioha, 25, who was said to be a patent medicine dealer, has been arrested.

Agency, gynaecologists sign MoU on maternal mortality From Vincent Ikuomola, Abuja •From left: Princess Ronke Adeparusi-Akintokun, founder, African Charity Worldwide; Ade Jimi Olusola, eldest son of the late Ambassador Segun Olusola; Aremo Taiwo Alimi, former Director-General, Voice of Nigeria (VON); Lola Akande, Deputy Leader, Lagos State House of Assembly; Ranti Alebiosu, Senior Special Assistant to Lagos State Governor on Tourism and Intergovernmental Relation; Dr Remi Aroyehun, Coordinator, Civil Enlightenment Association (CEA) and Dr Jacob Ayantayo of the University of Ibadan PHOTO: SOLOMON ADEOLA (UI), during the first post-humous birthday for Olusola.

Bakassi: Fed Govt to get report from panel this month

V

ICE-President Namadi Sambo has urged the Presidential Committee on Bakassi and the Right of the Displaced People to submit its report before the end of this month.

Sambo spoke yesterday in Abuja at a meeting with members of the committee.

The Vice-President said all Bakassi-related matters must be concluded before August, adding that the relocation of the displaced persons should be urgently addressed.

“There must be a final report by the end of this month, taking into consideration the interest of the people of Bakassi,” he said.

The committee’s recommendations, he said, should also include the time-frame to guide the government on what to do.

The committee has four months to complete its assignment.

The Vice-President assured the committee members that funds would be made available to them to discharge their duties effectively.

Cross River State Deputy Governor and Chairman of the Presidential Committee, Efiok Cobham, hailed the government for alleviating the plight of Bakassi residents.

He said there was need for the committee’s members to carry out an on-the-spot-assessment of the proposed settlement of the

From Augustine Ehikioya, Abuja

dislodged people.

The committee chairman condemned the Cameroun Gendarmes for evicting about 2,000 Nigerians from the disputed peninsula.

Cross River State, he said, was harbouring another set of displaced people, who are living in an open area with their families.

Addressing reporters after the meeting, Interior Minister Abba Moro condemned the recent attack on Nigerians at the peninsula.

He said appropriate actions were being taken to address the situation.

Morro said: “As it is now, as a good player on the international scene, Nigeria has subscribed to the Green Tree Agreement and, on our part as a country, we will continue to abide by the provisions of the agreement.

“For one reason or the other, resulting from little skirmishes here and there, the Camerounian Gendarmes have attacked some innocent Nigerians.

T

HE Society for Gynaecology and Obstetrics of Nigeria (SOGON) and the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) yesterday in Abuja signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the reduction of maternal/ child mortality in the country.

Under the pact, SOGON will provide mentoring service to midwives in the nation’s health facilities.

The agreement is part of the efforts to reduce maternal mortality rate and enable Nigeria attain the 2015 maternal/child Millennium Development Goals (MDGs).

SOGON President Dr Fred Achem said the society’s members have volunteered to assist in health facilities across the country.

He said: “The last MDGs survey done in 2012 has said our figure of maternal mortality rate in Nigeria today is about 350.”

Court stops Akingbola from seeking medical treatment abroad

A

LAGOS High Court in Ikeja, Lagos, yesterday turned down the application of the former Managing Director of the defunct Intercontinental Bank (now Access Bank) Plc, Dr. Erastus Akingbola, to travel abroad for medical treatment.

Justice Adeniyi Onigbanjo said Akingbola might run from trial, having known the weight of evidence against him while his trial lasted before Justice Habeeb Abiru, who could not conclude the case before he was elevated to the Court of Appeal.

The judge, however, granted the banker’s application and that of his aide and co-defendant, Bayo Dada, for the varia-

By Adebisi Onanuga

tion of their bail conditions.

Akingbola and Dada, the General Manager of Tropics Finance Limited, are on trial for allegedly stealing N47.1 billion belonging to the defunct Intercontinental Bank.

In an application on March 19, which was filed by his counsel, Mr. Mike Igbokwe (SAN), the former bank chief sought leave of the court to travel abroad for medical treatment.

Akingbola said he needed to keep a medical appointment fixed for April 15 at Harley Street Hospital in London, the United Kingdom.

His counsel, Wole

Olanipekun (SAN), who moved the application on Wednesday, referred the judge to some of his recent rulings, including that of Abdulahi Alao, Mahmud Tukur and Olawale Babalakin (SAN), whose similar applications were granted.

The lawyer said there was no reason a similar application

by Akingbola should not be granted.

But Justice Onigbanjo said the authorities cited by the learned counsel were not binding since the circumstances of the cases were different.

The judge held that Akingbola did not bring any evidence before the court to show

that no medical institution in the country could treat him.

He said there was also no evidence before the court that the banker had made any effort to contact for treatment any hospital in Nigeria.

The judge, in separate rulings, varied the bail conditions for Akingbola and Dada.

He held that it was no longer necessary for the defendants to report at the office of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on the first work day of every week.

Justice Onigbanjo held that a particular condition had outlived its usefulness since the EFCC had concluded its inves-

•Akingbola

tigation of the alleged offence preferred against the accused.

Justice Onigbanjo adjourned further trial in the matter till July 10.

THE NATION FRIDAY APRIL 12, 2013

57

NEWS Tukur condoles with Mama Awolowo

Police kill two 'robbers' in Taraba

•Yakassai, Utomi, others visit family

T

From Fanen Ihyongo, Jalingo

T

HE National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Alhaji Bamanga Tukur, has condoled with the matriarch of the Awolowo family, Chief Hannah Idowu Dideolu Awolowo, on the death of her son, Chief Oluwole Awolowo.

In a condolence message delivered on his behalf yesterday by the Chairman, Caretaker Committee of the PDP in the Southwest, Chief Ishola Filani, the PDP chairman described the late Awolowo as “a gentleman, an exemplary politician and a thoroughbred professional who would be sorely missed by his immediate community, Ogun State and Nigeria in general”.

He said it was painful that “death took him at a time when his soothing words and wise counsel would have been needed not just by Mama but all who knew him”.

Tukur prayed God to grant the Awolowo family, his associates and friends the strength to bear the irreparable loss.

Chairman of the Nigerian National Summit Group (NNSG), Alhaji Tanko Yakassai, and the group’s Executive Secretary, Mr. Tony Uranta, yesterday led other National Working Committee (NEC) members on a condolence visit to the Ikenne, Ogun State home of the wife of the late Western Region Premier, Chief Hannah Idowu Diedeolu Awolowo.

Other NNSG members on the delegation were popular economist, Prof Pat Utomi; Oodua Peoples Congress (OPC) founder, Chief Frederick Fasehun; former Anambra State Governor Emeka Ezeife, Mrs. Baarong TonyUranta, Prof Ebere Onwudiwe, Amb. Sobomabo Jackrich, Binta Sukai, Alhaji Lekan Abiola, among others.

Mama Awolowo received the delegation with her daughters, Mrs. Omotola Awolowo and Dr. Tokunbo Dosunmu Awolowo, as well as her grandson, Olusegun Awolowo and Mr Olugbenga Awolowo, among other family members.

Uranta introduced members of the delegation and sympathised with the family on the death of the publisher of Nigerian Tribune titles, Chief Wole Awolowo.

He described the late Awolowo as a brother, an inlaw and a friend who represented the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, in various capacities.

Yakasai said the NNSG joined millions of Nigerians to mourn with the Awolowos, the Yoruba, Nigeria and mankind.

He said: “We have come, not with many words but to join our spirits to yours, Chief Mrs Awolowo and the rest of the Awolowo clan, in these sober moments and to pray that we will all witness the Nigeria Chief Obafemi Awolowo fought so valiantly for in his own life time…”

•From left: Special Adviser to the President on Aviation, Capt. Shuhu Iyal; Minister of Special Duties, Alhaji Kabiru Taminu and Alhaji Bello Sani, at a cocktail organised in honour of Taminu, at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja.

PHOTO: AKIN OLADOKUN

Police arrest 56 murder suspects in Gombe T HE Gombe State Police Command has arrested 56 suspected members of a killer squad, the Kalare Gang, for alleged murder.

The police said assorted weapons were recovered from the suspects, who have allegedly confessed to the murder of some residents.

Addressing reporters in Gombe on the command's activities, Police Commissioner Mohammed Sule said the suspects were arrested between April 1 and 9.

"Those arrested include two of their ring leaders - Nasiru Ali Abubakar (aka Bakano)

A

From Vincent Ohonbamu, Gombe

and his deputy, Abdulmalik Musa (aka Marleyday) - who have confessed to the murder of innocent persons in the state," Sule said.

The police chief said security operatives also cracked down on a nine-man gang of rapists allegedly led by Usman Umar (aka Nimi Saleh) and Abubakar Umar (aka Battes).

They reportedly specialised in gang-raping women between

6.30pm and 11pm.

Sule alleged that Nasiru Abdullahi and Bello Mohammed, said to be Keke NAPEP operators, were arrested as they attempted to kidnap a lady in Gombe, the state capital. He said the suspects carried the lady at BCGA area of the state capital.

According to him, luck ran out on the suspected abductors as the police intercepted them at the eastern by-pass in the town when they attempted to escape with their victim.

'Stop politicising proposed amnesty for Boko Haram sect'

PROFESSOR of Islamic Studies at the University of Ilorin (UNILORIN), Lanre Badmus, has accused the Federal Government of politicising its planned amnesty for members of the Boko Haram sect.

The don noted that the sincerity of the Federal Government in the matter was suspicious.

Badmus spoke in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital, after launching The Learned, a journal of the Law Students' Association (LASA) of the state’s

From Adekunle Jimoh, Ilorin

College of Arabic and Islamic Legal Studies.

He said: "I'm not sure the Federal Government is sincere in the promise to give amnesty to Boko Haram members. All that the Federal Government is doing is politics and to play on the people's intelligence.

"When you want to set up a committee to take care of the

interest of a certain disadvantaged section of the community and you are setting up people that have had their hands soiled with the blood of most of the members of such organisations as members in the amnesty committee programme, it is like you are putting the dog in charge and you are inviting people to come in and the dog would not allow them to come in.

"Majority of the members in the government committee

Fed Govt urges Poland to invest in rural electricity

T

The police commissioner said some of the suspects have been charged to court while the others would also be arraigned as soon as investigation into the matter is concluded.

He warned those sponsoring hoodlums to refrain because the command would treat them the same way under the law.

The police chief advised parents and guardians to warn their children and wards to shun criminality.

Sule also urged the public to give useful information that to the police to track down hoodlums in the society.

HE Minister of Power, Prof Chinedu Nebo, yesterday urged a visiting Polish delegation, led by the Chairman, Economic Council of the Polish Government, Pan Jan Bielecki, to build small power holdings to provide electricity for Nigeria’s rural dwellers.

Nebo said: “It is impossible to get the super grid to all rural communities. We will like to engage with your various entities to build small power holdings to provide electricity to the rural populace.”

The minister said the Federal Government was ready to explore Polish assistance in electricity metering.

He said: “We are also prepared to explore Polish assistance in metering in conjunction with our regulatory body – the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC).”

Another area of concern in the power sector, according to the minister, is capacity building.

A statement yesterday in Abuja by the Deputy Director/Head of Press, Mr. Tim-

From John Ofikhenua, Abuja

othy Oyedeji, quoted the minister as saying that Nigeria “can really begin to forge a linkage with your (Polish) technical universities. We need to develop a versatile capacity in the power sector.”

He added: “We also have opportunities for Polish manufacturers and investors to come in either as Independent

Power Producers (IPPs) or form a partnership with Nigerians.”

Bielecki said there some projects in the power sector were attractive to the Polish delegation.

He said Poland has comparative advantage in the use of coal for power generation.

According to him, over 80 per cent power is generated in Poland with the use of coal.

Abuja to host Islamic fashion show

T

HE third edition of the Muslim Identity (MID) Fashion Show will hold on Sunday at the International Conference Centre, Abuja, it was learnt yesterday.

In a statement in Abuja by the Chief Executive Officer of MID Kollections, the organisers of the event, Adetona Abdulhameed, said this year’s event would be “bigger and better” than last year’s because of the high profile designers of Islamic fashion.

“This year, we have local and international designers, who have carved a niche for themselves in the ever-expanding global fashion indus-

From Sanni Onogu, Abuja

try, coming to showcase their products,” the statement said.

Among the products and designers that would be showcased the statement said, are: Islamic sportswear

by Capsters (Netherlands), Friniggi sportswear (Botswana), Modestly Active (UK), Bridal Gowns by Jenebu, African Textiles by Vlisco (Netherlands), Abayas by Aab (UK), Jilbabs by Islamic Design House(UK), Thawbs by Lawung (UK) Top & Skirts by Mybatua(India), Hijabs by Bokitta (Lebanon) and Wedding Gown by Jenebu.

are people that may not be acceptable to Boko Haram members because they will be thinking that they are being set up. They will be looking at them as a way the government is setting a trap for them.

"So, when the Sultan of Sokoto made an appeal to the Federal Government to grant the amnesty, the first fundamental mistake the President made was to reply the Sultan in public. The President forgot that the Sultan is a father figure of this country. He's the spiritual head of the entire Muslims of this country, who are in the majority.

"In my own opinion, Mr. President should have been wise enough to consult with the Sultan, saying: 'Please, enlighten me on what you said earlier.' Then, when he went to announce the committee, I don't think the Muslim Ummah leadership was contacted.

So, it might be that the wrong people have been put in place to do the work."

HE police in Taraba State have killed two armed robbers in Mararaba town.

But their leader was said to have escaped after a gun battle with the police.

It was learnt that three robbers were operating at a road block on Mararaba-Tati road when a police patrol rounded them up.

Two of them were shot dead on the spot.

The police said they were combing the area to arrest the hoodlums.

Police spokesman, Joseph Kwaji, an Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP), told The Nation that the robbers were killed in a gun battle. He added that no policeman was hurt during the gun duel.

Daniel’s suit: Lack of quorum forces court to adjourn

T

THE Court of Appeal in Ibadan, Oyo State, has adjourned till June 13 hearing on the motion filed by the former governor of Ogun, Otunba Gbenga Daniel.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the court could not sit on Thursday due to the inability of the judges to form a quorum.

NAN reports that the court was already filled up with Daniel and his supporters in attendance when it was announced that the court would not sit due to the absence of two of the three judges. The High Court adjourned till April 22, but declined on stay of proceedings of the case.

CHANGE OF NAME SUNDAY I, formerly known and addressed as MISS UKWU NNEOMA SUNDAY now wish to be know and addressed as MRS IHEANACHOR UKWU NNEOMA. All former documents remain valid. Standard organisation of Nigeria and the general public should take note.

CHANGE OF NAME CHUKWUDI I, formerly known and addressed as Chukwudi Courage now wish to be know and addressed as Nebeuwa Chuks Courage. All former documents remain valid.

General public should take note.

AUCTION ! AUCTION!!

There will be auction sales of seized /unclaimed vehicles and Motorcycles and electronics At MERIAN Police Station .

The Items are: (1) Toyota Rabit Reg Number AT558KRD (2) Mazda Car Reg Number PG720KLA (3) Christler Sport Car unregistered Date: 16th April 2013 Time: 10.00am Auctioneer: Chief G. A. Akinyemi & Sons.

25A, New Ipaja Road, Iyana Ipaja.

PUBLIC NOTICE AJISAFE'S CHRIST TRIUMPHANT FOUNDATION This is to inform the general public that the above named foundation has applied for registration under Part C of the Companies and Allied matters Act, 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: Pastor Folami Odunayo Fawehinmi-------------PRESIDENT Deacon Olureanti Eyitayo Ola-Fawehinmi------SECRETARY Mrs. Senami Adeola Dawodu---------------------MEMBER THE AIMS/OBJECTIVES To raise a godly standard against the on-slaught of demonic attacks To raise a prayer army against all forms of diabolic manipulation against people To preach the undiluted word of God to deliver people from their sins and to publish tracks and literature that will enlighten people about their freedom in Christ.

Any objections should be forwarded to the Registrar General Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 565 Ndola Squre, Wuse Zone 5, Abuja, within 28 days of this publication.

Signed: TITILAYO T. AKINBIYI (MRS,) GREEN & AKINBIYI, SOLICITORS No. 16B AGIP ROAD RUMUEME PORT HARCOURT 08033170774.

58

THE NATION FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2013

FOREIGN NEWS Mali’s leading party picks presidential candidate

M

ALI’S largest political party, Adema-PASJ, has chosen Dramane Dembele, a 46year-old mining engineer, as its candidate in a July presidential election aimed at ending a tumultuous political transition in the West African nation.

Once an example of democracy in what is known as West Africa’s “coup belt”, Mali has been mired in turmoil since March 2012, prompted by a Tuareg rebellion, an occupation of the north of the country by Islamic militants and a military coup.

Dembele was chosen following a meeting of the party’s executive committee late on Wednesday, a senior party official told journalists.

The party’s current leader and Mali’s interim president, Dioncounda Traore, is prevented from contesting the poll following a deal struck with coup leaders that allows him to lead the country during the transition.

Dembele will be up against about a dozen other candidates including former Prime Minister Ibrahim Boubacar Keita and ex-Finance Minister Soumaila Cisse, but he will be able to count on Adema-PASJ’s popularity.

The party controls 54 seats in the country’s 160-seat national assembly following the last election in 2007.

France, which led a lightning intervention to drive out the Islamists who had occupied northern Mali, has pushed for the election to complete Mali’s transition to democracy.

But there are widespread concerns over the organisation of credible elections following continued Islamist rebel attacks in northern Mali and the lack of an effective government presence in many areas.

Thatcher’s funeral invitation list released

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OWNING Street has released an initial list of invitations to Baroness Thatcher’s funeral next Wednesday.

All surviving US presidents and British prime ministers are on the guest list, as well as a representative of the Reagan family.

Ronald Reagan’s widow Nancy is understood to be too frail to travel.

Former Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev will also not be attending owing to health problems, his spokesman has said.

The guest list for the event was drawn up by Lady Thatcher’s family with the assistance of the government and the Conservative Party.

More than 2,000 invitations will be sent out, with most set to be dispatched today.

The Queen and Prince Philip are already confirmed for the ceremony, which will take place in St Paul’s Ca-

•‘Looks like a who’s who of the past four decades’

thedral, London.

It will be the first funeral of a British politician the Queen has attended since that of Sir Winston Churchill in 1965.

The cathedral has a capacity of 2,300 and is expected to be full on the day.

All surviving members of Lady Thatcher’s cabinets will be invited, as will the current cabinet and Labour leader Ed Miliband.

The Queenand Prince Philip, all surviving ex-prime ministers, all surviving US presidents, all surviving members of Lady Thatcher’s cabinets, Current cabinet, Labour leader Ed Miliband Scotland’s First Minister Alex Salmond, Michael and Carolyn Portillo, Dame Shirley Bassey, Jeremy Clarkson, Terry Wogan, Lord and

P

Labour former Prime Ministers Tony Blair and Gordon Brown have confirmed their attendance, as has Alex Salmond, First Minister of Scotland, and FW de Klerk, the last president of apartheid South Africa.

More than 700 armed forces personnel will line the route of the procession from Westminster to St Paul’s, including three bands whose drums will be covered in black cloth.

A gun salute will be fired from the Tower of London and the coffin will be carried into St Paul’s by service personnel from regiments and ships closely associated with the Falklands campaign.

Prime Minister David Cameron said he believed it was right that Lady Thatcher was being given a ceremonial funeral with full military honours.

•G8 Foreign Ministers (L-R) EU foreign policy chief Catherine Ashton, Canadian Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird, French Foreign Minister Laurent Fabius, US Secretary of State John Kerry, British Foreign Secretary William Hague, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, German Foreign Minister Guido Westerwelle, Japanese Foreign Minister Fumio Kishida and Italian Prime Minister Mario Monti pose for a photograph before thier meeting at Lancaster House in central London... yesterday, PHOTO: (REUTERS/Peter Macdiarmid)

Bangladeshi police arrest editor OLICE in Bangladesh yesterday arrested the acting editor of a pro-opposition newspaper on several charges, including sedition.

Mahmudur Rahman of the Bengalilanguage Amar Desh newspaper was arrested in a raid on his office in the capital, said Dhaka Metropolitan Police official Masudur Rahman.

Additional Metropolitan Magistrate Shahidul Islam ruled later Thursday that police could detain Rahman for up to 13 days for questioning.

Rahman faces charges including se-

Lady Lloyd Webber, Lord and Lady Archer Other invited guests from around the globe include former US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso and a representative of Nelson Mandela.

Guests from the world of entertainment who have already confirmed their attendance include BBC Top Gear presenter Jeremy Clarkson, Welsh singer Dame Shirley Bassey, broadcaster Terry Wogan and Lord Lloyd Webber.

Author Frederick Forsyth, a longstanding supporter of the Conservative Party who is also late Dim Odumegwu Ojukwu’s confidant and authour of “The Biafra Story” has also been invited.

dition and unlawful publication of a Skype conversation that resulted in the resignation of the head judge of a war crimes tribunal, prosecutor Abdullah Babu said.

Leaders of the government’s ruling party have accused Rahman’s newspaper of inciting violence during recent political unrest.

In December, Nizamul Huq, the head judge of a tribunal dealing with alleged crimes against humanity involving the nation’s 1971 independence war against Pakistan, resigned

after the London-based Economist said it had obtained 17 hours of recorded telephone conversations on Skype and seen more than 230 emails between Huq and Ahmed Ziaduddin, a lawyer of Bangladeshi origin living in Brussels.

Amar Desh later published the Skype conversation.

Opposition leader and former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia condemned Rahman’s arrest and demanded his release.

Malawi labels Madonna a ‘bully’

M

ALAWI has accused US singer Madonna of “bullying state officials” after she reportedly complained about her treatment on a visit to the country.

Madonna - who has adopted two Malawian-born children - recently visited 10 primary schools funded by her charity.

The government accused the star of exaggerating her contribution to the country and demanding VIP treatment.

Madonna’s manager accused Malawi’s government of having a “grudge” against the singer’s charity, Raising Malawi.

In a statement to the BBC, Trevor Neilson also accused the government of financial mismanagement of school project funds, and of “harassing organisations that Raising Malawi has donated to”.

Madonna was said to have been angered that she and her entourage were stripped of their VIP status on their way out of the country, the UK’s Daily Telegraph reported.

ANALYSIS

Venezuela election to test Chavez’s socialist legacy

T

HE late Hugo Chavez’s self-declared socialist revolution will be put to the test at a presidential election on Sunday that pits his chosen successor against a younger rival promising change in the nation he polarized.

Most opinion polls give his protege, acting President Nicolas Maduro, a strong lead thanks to Chavez’s endorsement and the surge of grief and sympathy over his death from cancer last month.

Maduro, a burly 50-year-old former bus driver, is promising to be faithful to Chavez’s socialist policies and he has copied his former boss’ fierce rhetoric throughout the campaign.

“Do you want one of the rancid bourgeois to win?” Maduro shouted at one of his closing rallies. “Or do you want a worker, a son of Chavez, a patriot and a revolutionary? You decide!”

Waving posters of his late boss, the crowd sang back the campaign slogan: “Chavez, I swear to you, I’ll vote for Maduro!”

Opposition candidate Henrique Capriles, the 40-year-old governor of Miranda state, says Venezuelans need a change from the divisive politics of Chavez’s 14-year rule, and he is hoping a late surge will turn things in his favor.

At stake is control of the world’s biggest crude oil reserves, economic aid to a host of left-leaning governments around Latin America, and the legacy of “Chavismo” socialism.

At each of his campaign events, Maduro has played a video of Chavez giving him his blessing in an emotional last speech to the OPEC nation of 29 million people before he succumbed to cancer on March 5.

If Maduro wins, he will face big challenges from day one as he seeks to control the disparate ruling coalition without his predecessor’s dominant personality or the robust state finances that helped the ailing Chavez win re-election just last October.

Capriles would face an even tougher landscape if he wins as he would have to try to win over Chavez’s millions of ferociously loyal supporters, including suspicious employees at state-run companies that have long been tied to Chavez’s movement.

At every rally, Capriles has rejected Maduro’s claims that he plans to cancel the oil-funded social welfare projects, or slum “missions”, that were a highprofile cornerstone of the late president’s popularity with the poor.

Capriles has drawn blood with scathing attacks on Maduro and others whom he denounces as “skin-deep revolutionaries.” He accuses them of betray-

By Daniel Wallis ing Chavez’s legacy by filling their pockets while paying only lip service to his ideology.

Maduro, meanwhile, paints his rival as a pampered rich kid who represents a wealthy and venal Venezuelan elite - and their “imperial” financial backers in Washington.

A descendant of European Jews on his mother’s side, Capriles does come from a wealthy family, but has sought to project a man-of-the-people image riding into slums on his motorbike and nearly always wearing a baseball cap.

Maduro, a former member of a rock band and a union activist, rose to be Chavez’s foreign minister and vice president, but has been playing up his modest roots at rallies, frequently calling onto stage fellow workers whom he recognizes.

During a bitter, lightning campaign punctuated by highly personalized attacks from both candidates, Maduro has stressed his close ties to Chavez at every turn. He even said he was visited by the late leader’s spirit in the form a little bird.

In another surreal turn, Maduro also warned anyone thinking of voting for his rival that they would bring down a centuries-old curse upon themselves, playing on the fertile mix of animist

and Christian beliefs in Venezuela’s plains and jungles.

In a nation where Chavez’s confrontational rhetoric helped fuel deep mistrust between his supporters and the opposition, both political camps have repeatedly accused the other of dirty tricks and fomenting violent plans.

Loyal “Chavistas” often accuse the opposition of plotting a re-run of a brief coup against Chavez a decade ago, while the Capriles camp says the government is shamelessly using state resources to try to ensure Maduro’s triumph.

Maduro has accused the opposition of planning to use mercenaries to kill him and sabotage the electricity grid, and also accused the U.S. government of plotting to kill Capriles and then blame it on his administration to sow chaos.

Capriles says those kind of shrill claims are an echo of the worst of Chavez’s rule, and only aim to spread distrust and fear. Chavez himself often unveiled supposed assassination plans targeting him, which critics dismissed as cynical efforts to keep voters on a war footing and distract them from daily worries such as violent crime, inflation and corruption.

Capriles also sees the hand of Cuba’s Castro brothers - close allies of the late Chavez - in Maduro’s campaign.

“I’m not the opposition, I’m the solution! ... I ask the late president’s supporters to vote for me. Nicolas is not Chavez. Capriles is the guarantee that this country advances.”

He is offering a Brazil-style model that blends pro-business policies with strong spending on social welfare projects, and he says Maduro’s tenure as acting leader has only added to people’s problems with a devaluation and new currency controls.

Capriles says that if he wins he will stop “gifting” Venezuela’s oil wealth to other nations, and will cool ties with distant Chavez-era allies such as Syria, Belarus and Iran.

The U.S. government will be watching the vote closely in the hope of better relations after years of tensions with Chavez.

Many supporters say they will stay true to the dying wish of their “commander” and vote for Maduro, whatever they may feel about how he stacks up as successor to the towering Chavez.

“It’s a question of loyalty. It doesn’t matter who the candidate is,” said Luis Vegas, a 23-year-old motorcycle courier from the huge Petare slum in Caracas. “On Sunday, we will show our support for Chavez and continue defending his revolution.”

•Culled from Reuters.com

THE NATION FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2013

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THE NATION FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2013

NEWS Fear in Presidency as Boko Haram rejects amnesty Continued from page 4

fai.

He said the gang also lost five of their members in the gun duel that ensued.

Rufai told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that the policemen were attacked as they took guard behind the sandbags which provided barriers at the entrance of the station.

The gunmen, who failed in their plan to raze the station, carted away some rifles, Rufai said.

He said: “The gunmen came around midnight, trying to enter the police station with intent to burn it down, but were resisted by the police.

“We lost four policemen and their rifles were carted away but the station was protected,” Rufai said.

According to sources, there has been anxiety in the Presidency and security circles since

the position of the sect was made known.

It was gathered that the government got to know of Boko Haram stand on Wednesday night.

A source said: “No one is happy in the Presidency and in the security agencies because the decision of Boko Haram leaders is a setback.

“That is why everyone is wearing somber look because President Goodluck Jonathan and his security chiefs have been working round the clock to make the amnesty work.

“The government is already exploring options to salvage the situation, including liaison with Northern elders who could help persuade Boko Haram leaders to open up talks with the government.”

Asked why the Boko Haram leaders rejected amnesty, the source added: “I think they

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have reservations about the process. There was a lot of celebration in the media before the thing took off.”

In Sani’s view, the rejection should have been expected because the Federal Government failed to do its homework well.

He also accused the government of focusing on a monetised amnesty instead of a genuine type.

Sani said: “Well, I am not surprised. In fact, it should be expected that they (Boko Haram leaders) should reject it because the government has put the horse before the cart.

“First and foremost, the whole idea of amnesty is a charade. The concept brought by Northern elders is an amnesty modelled along the line of Niger Delta and it is attached to financial commitment from the side of the state. They wanted to buy peace at a heavy amount of money just the way it is being brought about in the Niger Delta “The committee being set up by the government would naturally be rejected by Boko Haram because it was not constituted after a consultation with the leaders of the sect.

“The whole idea is about extracting billions of naira to be shared to insurgents and also giving out contracts, using the names of Boko Haram leaders.

“They simply rejected being used by some persons who want to profit from the amnesty deal.

“The way forward is for the government to go back to Dr. Ahmed Datti Ahmed peace talk which was facilitated by a journalist, Ahmad Salkida of which the group acknowledged and endorsed at that

very time.

“The outcome of that talk should then be preceded by a committee, which will have the input of the sect and also be recognised by the government.

“The next stage will then be a six to eight or nine-month ceasefire, which will ensure justice for all the victims of Boko Haram.

“So, any thought of using tax payers’ money to back up a fraudulent amnesty is an exercise in futility.”

Col. Umar said dialogue ought to have come first before the Federal Government rushed into the amnesty offer.

He said through dialogue, the government ought to have allowed the people to identify themselves, present their demands, consider the demands and open talks with the victims of Boko Haram insurgency whether they are ready to forgive or not.

Col. Umar said: “Well, I have all been skeptical about this amnesty issue. I align myself with the fact that there should be dialogue between the government and Boko Haram so that we will know what the insurgents want before we jump into amnesty.

“Without dialogue, we will not know whether they are ready for ceasefire or not. So, we need to create room for them to identify themselves, what their demands are and discuss with the Federal Government whether the government can meet these demands or not.

“Also, in considering amnesty, the Federal Government must take into account that there are victims that have been killed, maimed and those that lost their property. We need to know whether the families of those killed and other victims are ready to forgive or not.

President Goodluck Jonathan does not have the power to forgive, which is the whole essence of amnesty. There are victims who must be ready to forgive before we can talk of amnesty.

“To be honest, I am not surprised that they (Boko Haram leaders) have come out to reject amnesty. This is the first time the nation must come together or be united to address this insurgency.”

Insecurity : IBB rallies support for Fed Govt

•Gen. Babangida Continued from page 4

one should have a hand in solving the problem ensuring peace, stability in the country.

Therefore, we should not leave to government alone.’’

On the planned amnesty for Boko Haram, Gen. Babangida said he would reserve his comment until the Federal Government make public the terms of reference to the committee set up for the purpose. ‘’I do not know the terms of reference of the committee, therefore, I cannot speak about the plan, until the terms of reference have been released before commenting on the amnesty plan’’, he concluded.

He, however, praised the Federal Government, saying “the move was part of measures to ensure that peace and stability return to the Nirthern region.

No longer business as usual, ACN tells Presidency Continued from page 4

Federal Government.

The party said: “It is sad that this presidency is being increasingly defined by the use of rude and crude language against the opposition.

The ACN and its leaders have been mercilessly maligned and called unprintable names to such an extent that the deeper you sink into the gutter in talking about the ACN and its leaders, the more assured your meal ticket is at the Presidency.

“But we are, honestly, not surprised. When a key spokesman for any government is a

corrupt and undignified personality who, under a decent dispensation, should be undergoing trial for collecting huge funds for contracts not executed, that government has already defined its own public image.

“When a key spokesman for any government is a man who has jettisoned every principle he used to hold dear and has negated everything he ever wrote, just to secure a meal ticket that the government cannot and should not expect to be respected and believed by the citizenry. That is the crisis facing the Jonathan administration.”

Survivor of attack on policemen regains freedom Continued from page 4

cussing with the gunmen who kidnapped the two men how they would be released. As at today (yesterday), I do not have information about their release or on the death of one of them.”

The released police corporal was reportedly admitted at the emergency ward of the FMC, where he was treated for gunshot wounds and discharged.

A security source said: “The released policeman, after his

treatment at the FMC, Yenagoa was discharged yesterday (Thursday) morning and he reported at the Bayelsa police headquarters in Yenagoa, where he was debriefed.”

Ebebi’s elder brother, Victor, confirmed his release, expressing gratitude to God for sparing the life of the “jolly good fellow”.

Victor expressed the optimism on Wednesday that his younger brother would later rejoin the family alive.

CBN recovers N6b from banks for cheated customers Continued from page 1

years, cannot read when compared to nine per cent in the West.

Sanusi wondered how the country can be built when 93 per cent of the girls in the most populous region do not complete secondary school education.

He criticised female ministers who spend time in government without any tangible proof of their stewardship for the womenfolk. “If you spend four years in the cabinet and you cannot say after four years what you did for women during the period, shame on you!” he declared.

Sanusi said his deesire is to see more women in positions of authority. “We want many skirts out there, and we want these skirts not to be limited to the top of the board, because for every one woman that makes it up there to the board, there are probably up to 5,000,000 or 10,000,000 women in the villages who don’t have access to education,” he said.

The CBN governor was also unhappy with the practice of credit processing in the country which he condemned as being “gender biased.”

According to Sanusi, “if you have a credit process that says you need tangible collateral or landed property in a society where women do not generally hold titles to land, you have already cut them off because men own the land and houses and for you (women) to even approach a bank for a loan is almost impossible.”

As a result, the CBN, he said, has resorted to forcing “the banks to look at those credit policies and get them to answer, how do you get credit to that group.”

“It is also wrong to promote men simply because they put in more hours at work whereas women have to go home by 5pm to attend to their families and as result get bypassed for promotion often. They are able to put in these hours simply because they are men.”

To promote gender balance in the banking sector, Sanusi disclosed it has been “agreed that by 2014, at least 30 per cent of the board seats in banks will be held by women and at least 40 per cent of senior management positions will be held by women.”

He further stated that “this year we require that all banks’ when they publish their statement of accounts, must publish its gender positions to name and shame, even the Central Bank will not be exempted from this.

There is a lot of public pressure on these institutions that fall behind to make them to catch up.”

In the 50 years of the CBN’s existence “only four women had made it to director level and this was a period when we had 10,000 staff, today we have seven or eight female directors, this comes from a conscious policy of looking for qualified women to take these positions.”

The foundation’s executive director, Mrs Maryanne Moghalu said the lecture will “examine how far we have come in developing women leaders across Nigeria, why it is important to have women leadership as part of a broad agenda as part of our social and economic agenda, how we can ensure this goal in a sustainable manner by ensuring that women are trained and ready for leadership roles in the public, private and non profit sectors and that they are sent to such roles in their own merits and not just the values of voters.

THE NATION FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2013

61

NEWS

•L-R: Former Head of State, Gen. Mohammadu Buhari; Secretary to Ogun State Government, Mr Taiwo Adeoluwa and Commissioner For Environment, Mr Lanre Tejuoshso, when Buhari visited Abeokuta... on Wednesday

•President, Guild of Editors, Mr Femi Adesina, President, Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote and Publisher of Source Magazine, Comfort Obi, at a breakfast meeting with Dangote in Lagos... on Wednesday

•Niger State Governor Babangida Aliyu (left) receiving documents from agriculture promoters, Mr Ola Adigun Daniels, CEO Topwedges Ltd and Alhaji Shuaibu Bello, Managing Director, Interproducts Link Nigeria Ltd in Minna... on Wednesday •Kebbi State Governor Saidu Dakingari (left) condoling with the Permanent Secretary,Government House Protocol Department, Alhaji Bello Bande, on the death of his wife, Hajiya Hussaina, in Birnin Kebb...on Wednesday •L-R: Chairman, Action Committee, Youth Wing of the Christian Association of Nigeria (YOWICAN), Mr Kingsum Joshua; National President, Dr Simon Dolly, and Secretary, Southeast, Mr Nwanya Christian, at a news conference in Abuja... on Wednesday.

•L-R: Anglican Bishop of Lagos, Rev. Adebola Ademowo; Bishop ofRemo, Rt. Rev. Micheal Fape and the Most Rev Adebayo Akinde (Archbishop of Lagos and Bishop of Lagos Mainland) at a provincial meeting at the Cathedral of St. Jude Ebute Metta.

PHOTO: SOLOMO ADEOLA

•Master Ochalefu Jeremiah of Ahmed Memorial Muslim Primary School, Agege, Lagos (second left) receiving a cheque of N100,000 from Representative of Lagos State Commissioner for Education, Mr. Alao Joseph Olugbenga (left) and Marketing Director, Unilever Nig., Mr. David Okeme (second right) at the presentation of cheques to winners of Omo Art Competition tagged: Omo and Achieve Competition at the Sheraton Hotel, Ikeja,Lagos. With them is representative of Chairman, State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Mr. Saheed Ibikunle.

•L-R: Naeem Muhammad, Abdul-Malik Ahmad and Joshua Salaam of Nativedeen Group, an American Musical Group receiving a copy of Islamic Magazine from Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Arabel, Alhaja Sherifah Andu, when the group arrived in Nigeria for a concert...yesterday PHOTO: ISAAC JIMOH AYODELE

PHOTO: ISAAC JIMOH AYODELE

•Head, Programmes, Vchannels & Odua TV, Awal Abdulfatai(left); Public Relations Manger, Startimes, Rete Anetor and Brand Content Manager, Startimes, Bose Adewara, at a news conference on “Startimes Family Rewards” in Lagos PHOTO: SOLOMON ADEOLA

•L-R: Vice Chairman, Isolo Local Government Development Area (LCDA), Hon. Soji Balogun, Secretary, Aswani Market Men/Women Association, Mr. Nuru Oloyede, Iyaloja Aswani Market, Mrs. Matilda Aderonmu, Chairman, Isolo LCDA Hon. Abiodun Olaleye and Zonal Head, FCMB Plc, Mr. Endwell Brown at the FCMB Community Social Responsibility Initiative OperPHOTO: DAYO ADEWUNMI. ation Clean held at Aswani Market in Lagos .

SPORT EXTRA 62

Friday, April 12, 2013

THE NATION FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2013

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SPORT EXTRA APRIL 2013 FIFA RANKINGS

Eagles drop to 31st spot T

HE Super Eagles have dropped one step from 30th to the 31st spot in the latest edition of the FIFA rankings released yesterday by the world football governing body.

The Eagles failed to make the best use of the points that would have accrued from their World Cup qualifying home match against the Harambee Stars of Kenya where they luckily escaped with a 1-1 draw.

The Kenyans, however, benefited as they moved up

LMC sacks NPL staff

four places on the ladder to occupy the 34th spot in Africa and 122nd in the world.

As expected, the Elephants of Cote d'Ivoire, who secured an emphatic 3-0 win over Gambia in their own World Cup qualifying match, maintained their rating as Africa's highest ranked team and even moved a step to 12th spot n the world rankings.

Ghana, Mali, Nigeria, Algeria, Tunisia, Zambia, Burkina Faso, Equatorial Guinea, and Cameroon complete the list of the top ten

African team in that order.

The leading trio of Spain, Germany and Argentina remain unchanged. They are now being chased by Croatia, who have climbed five places to fourth after two World Cup qualifying wins; while tournament host, Brazil, dropped to No 19.

Colombia remains No 6, followed by England and Italy, which both fell three places behind the Netherlands.

A total of 120 "A" interna-

tional matches have been taken into account for the April edition of the FIFA/ Coca-Cola World Ranking, majority of which are qualification matches for the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil (83 matches) and for the AFC Challenge Cup (20 matches), the remaining 17 matches being friendlies.

The total number of matches taken into account so far this year is 275.

The next FIFA/Coca-Cola World Ranking will be published on May 9.

From Segun Ogunjimi, Abuja HE League Management Company (LMC) has sacked the entire staff of the Nigeria Premier League yesterday.

In a letter signed by the Chief Operating Officer of the LMC, Alhaji Salihu Yussuf, the staff were given three days to reapply if they still wanted to work as the staff of the Nigeria Professional Football League.

The League Management Company Chairman, Hon. Nduka Irabor recently disowned the NPL staff and also said that the LMC has no obligation or duty to pay the outstanding five months salaries owed them.

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Dike seeks more success after win From Tunde Liadi,Owerri A S A W A R A UNITED’S Technical Adviser, Alphonsus Dike has stressed that their away win in Ilorin against Kwara United is the beginning of their leap to the summit of the Nigeria Professional Football League(NPFL).

Nasawara stunned the Afonja Warriors 1-0 at the upgraded Kwara State International Stadium through a dying minute goal from Leonard Ugochukwu and the Lafia based team held on to the victory for their first road win of the season.

Dike in a chat with NationSport said that he was happy that his boys rose up to the occasion but that he has warned the players not to over celebrate the important victory.

"We won and we are grateful to God. We are gradually coming up the league table and we shall get there. We are happy but we don't need to go to the extremes because of the other matches we have this season and most especially our home game against Gombe United," Dike said.

Dike, a former handler of Rangers and the Golden Eaglets however praised the conduct of the ilorin fans during and after the game for being law abiding throughout the course of the game in spite of the home loss suffered by Kwara United.

Nasarawa United are in the top half bracket having garnered 11 points from 6 games. They have scored 6 goals and conceded 3 in those matches.

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Heartland falls 1 - 2 to Dolphins in PH

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EARTLAND football club of Owerri fell to Dolphins of Port Harcourt by two goals to one in the week six encounter of the Nigeria Professional football League played at the Liberation stadium yesterday.

With Chidiebere Okorie of Dolphins pulling out of the game due to early injury and replaced by Atuloma Emeka, the encounter which looked more like a training match within the first thirty minutes dragged on.

Olawale Isiaka came with the first goal around the 16th minute from the spot kick that resulted from the bringing down of Emem Eduok in the penalty box.

Another crossing from Emem Eduok got scored by Fred Okwara in the 29th minute giving Dolphins a 2 0 lead against Heartland at the half time.

The second half proved to be better as both sides came out hungry for goals that almost failed to come.

From Florence Nkem Israel, Port Harcourt Heartland succeeded in picking a second half consolation through Akor Issa as he scored a pass laid by Happy Okuoka in the 84th minute.

The goal led to a sudden pick up by heartland towards the dying minutes as they mounted pressure on the home side making several quick and almost successive attempts within the period.

The coach of the club, Ndubuisi Nduka said it was a good game and attributed the loss to fatigue.

"Maybe the hang over of the long trip we had from Gabon spending almost six days without training at the airport, it affected most of the boys.

"We have a very good team and the league is still very young. We are going to establish ourselves and occupy the proper position.

"For Dolphins, they fought.

They fought very hard for the victory", he said.

Imo assures of winning protest against US Bitam

I •Super-Eagles-Players-coolling-off-during-Wednesdays-training-session-in-Calabar

Chelsea into Europa s/final despite defeat

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HELSEA became the first club to qualify for the semifinals of this season’s Europa League yesterday despite losing 3-2 to Rubin Kazan in the second leg of their quarterfinal tie.

The London club goes through 5-4 on aggregate after winning 3-1 in last week’s first leg and remain on course to win the Europa League a year after triumphing in the Champions League.

Thursday’s match was played on the artificial surface at the Luzhniki stadium in Moscow, 800 km west of Rubin’s home in Tatarstan, because UEFA ruled the Russian club’s own pitch to

•Moses

be in unfit condition.

Chelsea fans will forever associate the Luzhniki with their team’s painful penalty shoot-out defeat to Manchester United in the 2008 Champions League final, although this occasion had a very different feel to it, with the 80,000-capacity venue barely a quarter full.

The Premier League side got off to a glorious start, taking the lead in the fourth minute when Fernando Torres — who netted a brace in the first leg — lobbing into an empty net as Rubin ‘keeper Sergei Ryzhikov came racing out of his area.

Rubin were given hope when Spanish defender Ivan Marcano headed in a cross from compatriot Pablo Orbaiz six minutes into the second half, but Victor Moses soon restored Chelsea’s lead on the night, playing a one-two with Ramires and then curling a shot into the net from 15 yards.

That goal left the Russians needing to score four times without reply to rescue the tie.

Captain Gokdeniz Karadeniz did pull one back before Bebras Natcho converted a penalty after Cesar Azpilicueta was harshly penalized for a foul on Aleksandr Ryazantsev in the box.

That allowed Rubin to win the game on the night, but Chelsea interim manager Rafael Benitez was pleased to be in the semi-final draw.

“The scoreline doesn’t matter too much. We did a professional job and I am really pleased with the players,” he told ESPN television.

“Playing on this pitch and in that atmosphere was not easy, but the main thing for us was to do job.” The remaining quarterfinal second legs will be played later on Thursday, with Newcastle United hoping to recover a 3-1 firstleg deficit when they host Benfica, Tottenham Hotspur facing Basel in Switzerland after a 2-2 draw in London last week, and Fenerbahce defending a 2-0 lead against Lazio in Rome.

MO STATE Government has stated its conviction that Heartland FC would win the protest lodged against US Bitam of Gabon in the botched first round, second leg tie of the CAF Confederation Cup. US Bitam walked over the Nigeria's representatives after they failed to arrive Gabon before the stipulated time for the game but the Imo State Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Comrade Kenneth Emelu in a brief chat with journalists in Owerri has come out to explain what transpired in before, during and after their visit to Gabon.

Comrade Emelu said the team's problem started with their flight arrangements with Asky Airlines which the commissioner opined made the team's trip to Gabon very difficult with their hike in the ticket fare from N90,000 to N196,000 before the Imo government intervened with two chartered aircraft at the rate of N7.5million.

He enthused that Heartland's players and officials got to Gabon on Saturday at around 5pm but that the match officials had already concluded walk over formalities despite the club's duly sent correspondence through the Nigeria Football Federation(NFF) seeking for a shift in date by 24

UNILAG, FUNNAB in top spots at NUGA Zone F preliminaries

A

S the preliminaries of the 2013 Nigeria University Games Association (NUGA) Zone F kicked off yesterday at the Sports Complex of the University of Lagos (UNILAG), host - UNILAG and Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB) are in top spot after winning the most medals in the squash and table tennis events in the preliminaries of the 2013 Nigeria University Games Association (NUGA) Zone F.

With six schools taking part in the three-day tournament, which serves as qualifiers for the 2013 NUGA Games holding in June at the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), UNILAG team confirmed its superiority in the squash event dominating in the men and women categories.

Also yesterday, FUNAAB were in superb form in table tennis beating University of Ibadan (UI) and Lagos State University (LASU) to the title in the men and women team events. UI and LASU suffered 3-1

defeats in the hand of FUNNAB. However, UNILAG have started working their way to the top at the championship with victories over FUNAAB and UI in the volleyball and basketball events.

In volleyball, the Akoka boys beat FUNNAB 3-1 to record victory in their first game, while in the basketball event; UNILAG ladies pounded UI 48-17 to be on top.

According to NUGA Zone F Co-coordinator, Cecilia Arinye, six schools are taking part in the

competition after Lead City and Bell Universities were turned back following their inability to produce proper registration for the games.

“The games had started and the athletes are putting all their efforts to ensure that they make the school proud and for us at NUGA, we are also working hard to ensure that only bonafide students take part in the tournament.

Any athlete or school found using mercenaries will be disqualified,” she said.

From Tunde Liadi,Owerri

hours as early as Thursday.

Emelu pointed that the US Bitam officials and those in the Gabonese FA never came to welcome them and that there was no arrangement regarding their accommodation when they got to Bitam among other inconveniences not properly catered for.

The commissioner expressed confidence that CAF would rule in favour of Heartland based on the overwhelming evidence submitted as back up and has asked Imo people and the Naze Millionaires' supporters to remain peaceful and law-abiding.

First league win excites Baraje From Tunde Liadi,Owerri

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L Kanemi Warriors Technical Adviser, Zakary Baraje has expressed relief at his club's first victory of the season.

The Maiduguri based club has been playing very well both home and away but have been finding a win difficult to come by until that got resolved in their NPFL Week 6 duel at home to Akwa United.

Haruna Babalo and a certain Mabai scored to rescue maximum points for El Kanemi and Baraje in an interview has stated that he was over the moon when the referee signalled the final whistle in their game with Akwa.

"We have eventually won our first game of the season.

The jinx has been broken and we shall start getting win upon win from now henceforth. We worked for the full points and I am happy we got it eventually.

"We shall continue to stabilise and ensure that we are not at the wrong end of the table," Baraje assured.

TODAY IN THE NATION

‘People of God must not despair but must remain in fervent prayers for the lost souls who have deviated from His natural order and are sold to the enemy’ FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2013

TRUTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM

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HE Presidency has responded to critics who accused it of complicity in the police detention of Leadership newspaper journalists on an allegation that the journalists deliberately published a false story. It is interesting that the “false story” itself was about a “Presidential Directive” on opposition leaders. And when that story broke, the Presidency was alleged to have directed the police to clamp down on the journalists. The Presidency has therefore been in the business of issuing directives. The response was to deny this allegation. Did it succeed?

The Presidency rightly and, in my judgment, validly argued that once it convinced itself that the Leadership story was false, it denied it and “the rebuttal from the Presidency was appropriate.” We should also accept the suggestion that publishers and editors have the professional obligation to “double check their claims, and where errors had been made, to quickly retract the story.”

Let us go further and accept the Presidency’s favorable reference to the principle that “the freedom of expression goes hand in hand with great responsibility” and that professional ethics requires that journalists abide by this principle at all times.

The question that follows is this: Assume that a journalist errs and fails to abide by this code of ethics. Let us assume further that the said journalist does so deliberately and with malice. What, on the part of a republic that is founded on the rule of law, is the appropriate response to such a deviant behaviour? It is the response to this question that distinguishes a democracy from a dictatorship and it is where the response of the Presidency still appears troubling.

The presidential response speculates that Leadership story, which it considered “fictitious” was intended to “cause civil strife, engender a breakdown of law and order and negate the values of our democracy” and it concluded that it is a “very grievous act which should not be ignored.” We heard this before and it was not in a democratic setting! Once you start speculating about intentions, it is a short course towards clamping down “in the interest of the nation”, the interest which you determine on behalf of the nation. This has always been the challenge that democracies must respond to. No one—no matter how highly placed— has the right to determine

VOL.8 NO.2,456

C OMMENT & D EB ATE EBA

SEGUN GBADEGESIN gbadegesin@thenationonlineng.net

Leadership matters

•President Goodluck Jonathan

‘You are not going to like everything that citizens choose to say or do. But we have laws and processes. You have no right to abuse those laws and processes just because you feel offended and abused by a story. You do not have the right to determine what story endangers national interest.

That is for the courts of law to determine’

the interest of the nation because behind every such move lurks ubiquitous self-interests camouflaging as national interest.

The presidency response leaves no one in doubt concerning its leaning. Once it considers itself the aggrieved party, it has no problem claiming the right to feel offended and bruised. If a journalistic action that is judged to be a “disruptive act erodes the ethos of governance and professionalism,” as far as the Presidency is concerned, it “naturally stirs up those entrusted with the protection of law and order.” In other words, while the Presidency denies directing law enforcement officers to clamp down on Leadership journalists and detain them, it has no scruple defending the detention because it is “natural” for the police to “act in the public interest.”

We are told by the Presidency that its response is not a brief for the law enforcement and security agencies, but it defends their actions by its insistence that “such a publication (as Leadership’s) like all others that threaten our democracy and undermine law and order, become the duty of the Police as an institution to investigate.” The danger here is obvious. It is the Presidency that has the certain knowledge that a publication threatens our democracy and undermines law and order. What is unclear is the basis on which the Presidency makes the judgment and, more importantly, what gives the Presidency the prerogative for that determination.

Surely no person or agency is above the law. However, it is also true that we have separation of powers for good reasons, part

RIPPLES THERE IS HOPE FOR NIGERIA , says Cleric

Hope...our usual CONSOLATION

HARDBALL HIEF Justice of Nigeria (CJN) Aloma Mariam Mukhtar is determined to grab a prominent space in Nigeria’s judicial history. Sworn in as the 13 th indigenous Chief Justice of Nigeria in July last year, she has since taken a few decisive steps and made many radical statements worthy of attention. One such statement was made early this week when she declared open a refresher course on judgment writing and delivery organised by the National Judicial Institute (NJI) for judicial officers nationwide. Judges, she observed, had become the butt of jokes nationwide on account of the decline in quality and quantity of their judgments. “A judge should write judgment in a simple and unambiguous manner such that it leaves no one in doubt as to what the judgment has addressed,” she advised. According to her, some judges wrote judgments either to exhibit their obsession with judicial jargons or to purposely create ambiguities for the mischievous to exploit.

She is probably right, for lawyers and judges have a tendency to immerse themselves in deliberate arcana, sometimes mystifying themselves and getting entangled in complicated verbosity, thereby requiring the services of an impatient senior judge to cut through the maze. But let us hope that in the campaign for simplicity, the renascent Lord Dennings (as in Beswick v. Beswick) would not forsake the profound veneer and logical complexities that have set jurisprudence apart from other less esoteric disciplines and given oomph and meaning to the phrase “my learned friend.”

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STEVE OSUJI

of which is to avoid one arm of government from being the accuser, prosecutor, judge and jury at the same time to the detriment of the rule of law. The police is an agency of the executive for all intents and purposes. The reason that the Federal Government, including the Presidency, has been unsympathetic to the demand for state police and has blocked the amendment of the constitution to establish state police is the argument that state governments, including the governors, will use the police as a political weapon against opponents. There is understandable fear that this is exactly what is going on with the federal government.

We can picture a different scenario. The Leadership newspaper publishes a story that the Federal Government deems false and defamatory. The Chief Law Officer of the Federal Government goes to court with a case against Leadership. Each side argues its case before a court of competent jurisdiction. The judge, an independent arbiter, pronounces a judgment. If Leadership is found guilty, it pays the price and other media houses learn from the case. This is the ideal path of democratic governance. More than a decade ago, we heaved a sigh of relief when we ushered in a new era of the republic and we vowed never to go back to the era of dictatorship and jungle justice. We cannot afford to go back.

The Presidency suggests that the case of Leadership “offers the media an opportunity for introspection” on issues of “ethics and professionalism.” Indeed, it is also an occasion for the Presidency and governments at all levels to come to terms with the meaning and practice of true democracy. You are not going to like everything that citizens choose to say or do. But we have laws and processes. You have no right to abuse those laws and processes just because you feel offended and abused by a story. You do not have the right to determine what story endangers national interest. That is for the courts of law to determine. Each of us has a genuine interest in making sure that the rule of law is protected from those who would choose to drag it in the mud just because they have the power to do so. In the final analysis, it is what good governance is all about.

•For comments, send SMS to 08111813080

•Hardball is not the opinion of the columnist featured above

CJN reads the riot act to judges But nothing can detract from the engaging idea Justice Mukhtar tried to communicate to her audience at the NJI workshop: that justice must not only be done, but that it must be seen to be done, with no cumbersomeness of fact, logic or language. In fact her asseveration was in tune with the drastic and unexpected step she took late February under the aegis of the National Judicial Council (NJC) when she approved the sacking of two judges, to wit, Justices Charles Archibong of the Lagos Division of the federal high court and Thomas Naron of the Plateau state high court. The CJN also referred a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Otunba Kunle Kalejaiye to the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) for disciplinary action.

The public, which the CJN referred to as a barometer for sound judgments, may, however, have made up its mind on just how nearly impossible it is to bring farreaching reforms to the judiciary, especially because the judiciary is part of a society that has lost its moral compass. The public views the impasse in the reinstatement of Justice Ayo Salami of the Court of Appeal as a better barometer not only of the lack of rectitude of the judicial branch but also a measure of the lack of will of judicial officers to dispense justice in difficult and excruciating circumstances. Shortly after she assumed office, the CJN attempted an activist and moralistic approach to the Salami impasse, like Justice Dahiru

Musdapher before her, but met a brick wall in the Jonathan presidency. Justice Mukhtar will probably wisely concentrate on other less controversial areas of sanitising the judiciary, and severely avoid issues that deal with judicial independence.

Though her effort on the Salami case foundered, the CJN at least indicated her admirable perspective on sanitising the judiciary and helping it to regain respect in the estimation of the public. She will press on in battling such malaises as are within her gentle reach, and she will do battle with style and grace. Under her watch, more judges will be made to shape up or ship out, and perhaps the quality of jurisprudence will inch up somewhat. But it is hard to see the quantum of improvements, both in quality and volume, that the CJN expects manifesting soon. This column will back her, as long as she follows her own counsel by giving those accused of indiscretions fair hearing. (Justice Archibong’s supporters, it will be recalled, claimed he was not given fair hearing). But at the risk of being described as a pessimist, Hardball will be unwilling to hazard a guess that the CJN will make a substantial dent on the malfeasances that have undermined the judiciary, for that sector is neither insulated from the rest of the society nor, because of decades of practiced compromise with the system, does it show any eagerness to live, like Caesar’s wife, above suspicion.

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