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Nigeria, others lose $50b to illegal transfers, says minister

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IGERIA and other African countries lose about $50 billion yearly to illicit financial flows, Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala has said.

The minister spoke in Washington DC, United States at the on-going International Monetary Fund

From Simeon Ebulu, Group Business Editor, Washington DC

(IMF) and the World Bank Group meetings. She said the bulk of the transfers was effected “through tax evasion, transfer pricing; meaning that their profits are exported to jurisdictions where they pay less taxes, so we can’t tax this.”

She also accused those involved of engaging in “mixed

pricing over-invoicing and under-invoicing of goods and services that they bring into our countries, as well as corrupting our officials and the likes in the continent.”

To address the menace, she said a group of African countries approached the IMF and the World Bank for assistance. She said the African Finance Ministers constituted a panel, chaired by former

EKITI 2014

South African President Thabo Mbeki which looked into the matter. “Its findings revealed that almost $50billion a year is expropriated or disappeared from Africa, illegally.”

Mrs Okonjo-Iweala said all the African Finance Ministers requested for help from World Bank and the IMF to interface with the receiving Continued on page 2

•Fayemi defends N25b bond as necessary for growth •Bamidele seeks sanction for political violence AND MORE •Fayose: I won’t take up issues with APC •ON PAGE 10

2015: Five governors in cold war with First Lady Governors grumble as President’s wife back aspirants in Abia, Bayelsa, Delta, Bauchi, Kwara, Akwa Ibom, Rivers Aide: it’s not true

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From Yusuf Alli, Abuja

O fewer than five governors are in a “cold war” with First Lady Patience Jonathan over her alleged moves to impose their successors.

But the Office of the First Lady denied the claim last night.

In the crises are Bayelsa, Delta, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, Abia, Bauchi, and Kwara states, where the First Lady is believed to have anointed some aspirants for the governorship tickets.

A highly-placed source with deep insight into the challenges facing the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), said: “We have a crisis at hand, pitching some governors against the First Lady.

It is a cold war which will soon become a ma-

RA GE OF •RA RAGE NATURE: A building smashed by a falling telecom mast during a rainstorm in Onipanu, Ikorodu Road, Lagos... yesterday.

SEE ALSO PAGE 12

PHOTO: ADEJO DAVID

Continued on page 2

•IBADAN AGOG FOR OLUBADAN’S CENTENARY P8 •KWARA APC, PDP DIFFER ON BOND P54

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THE NATION MONDAY, APRIL 14, 2014

NEWS Jonathan to adjust conference membership on Muslims’ request •President to get SA on Islamic Affairs

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•From left: Oba of Lagos Rilwanu Akiolu (left); Oniru of Iruland, Oba Idowu Oniru and former Lagos State Governor Bola Ahmed Tinubu during the 28th anniversary of Oba Oniru in Lagos...at the weekend PHOTO: SOLOMON ADEOLA

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Our Boko Haram ordeal, by Emir

N Emir yesterday painted a gory picture of what his people are going through as a result of the Boko Haram insurgency in Borno State.

The Emir of Gwoza, the hilly community in the northeast state, said his 650,000 people are frustrated and ready to move out to other parts of the state or to a neigbouring country because of the activities of Boko Haram.

Alhaji Idrissa Timta, in a statement in Maiduguri, the state capital, said economic activities had been cut off, in addition to daily invasions and killings by the sect. There is no more social

From Bodunrin Kayode, Maiduguri

life. Farms are being invaded, he added.

The people have witnessed increased attacks with mass killings by the insurgents in the last four months, the Emir said in the statement signed on his behalf

by Gwoaza Emirate Council Information Officer Ahmed Karau.

The Emir called for a better policing of the Gwoza-Maiduguri highway to enable the people resume their normal economic lives stalled by the activities of the sect on the major highways.

“Even the food crops cultivated by them in the last farming season have ended up with the Boko Haram as the harvests were seized by the insurgents, making life unbearable.

“There is an urgent need for the security agents to intensify and change their tactics of operation to stop the mass killings in this area,” Alhaji Timta said.

He said the insurgents had also killed many people by blocking major highways, and appealed to security agents to intensify patrol on these roads to prevent the attacks.

“If care is not taken my people will completely flee the area to neighbouring states and coun-

tries for safety,’’ he said The emir urged the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 7 Division of the Army and other security arms to stop Boko Haram from killing people on the Gwoza - Maiduguri highway.

Alhaji Timta said poor security has caused the death of 350 people this year in the hands of the insurgents on the 135-kilometre Gwoza-Maiduguri; and 152-kilometre Askira-ChibokDamboa-Maiduguri Forest roads.

In January there were “ambushing and killing” of innocent motorists and passengers daily.

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From Sanni Onogu, Abuja

The Chairman, Senate Committee on Petroleum Resources (Downstream), Senator Magnus Abe, told reporters at the weekend in Abuja that the committee would invite the minister to provide the required details if the NNPC refuses to submit documents relating to the expenditure. Besides, Abe al-

leged that the NNPC had failed to submit its financial dealings as requested since 2012.

He said: “We’ve not informed the minister of the delay from NNPC and there are issues we know will involve the minister, but I don’t think this, at this point, involves the minister.

“But if we can’t resolve it,

Continued from page 1

Continued on page 58

The source said: “The anointed candidate is the Chief Executive of NSITF, Dr. Ngozi Olojeme.

“We learnt that a former minister and the wife of a former chairman of the PDP have been recruited to make a case for Olojeme,” another source said.

In Bauchi, Governor Isa Yuguda is opposed to plans by the First Lady to impose the Minister of FCT, Senator Bala Mohammed, as governor.

“We may witness a repeat of what happened in Bauchi State in 2007 if Mohammed is eventually made the candidate without Yuguda’s support.

The opposition will gain from it,” said the source, who pleaded not to be named.

“Yuguda wants to produce his successor and the National Chairman of PDP, Alhaji Adamu Muazu, may not allow him because this is his own opportunity to take control of affairs in his state,” the source added.

Governor Theodore Orji of Abia State is battling to convince the party to pick his successor. One of those believed to be in Orji’s consideration is the General Manager of Abia

State Environmental Protection Agency (ASEPA), Aba Zone, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu.

But the First Lady might choose between an oil magnate and a retired military chief, although the businessman is rated higher.

“The First Lady’s mother is from Abia State; she sees herself as a stakeholder in the state,” the source said.

In Kwara State, Mrs Jonathan’s preference for Senator Gbemisola Saraki is creating tension in the party. Some stakeholders plan to work for the All Progressives Congress (APC), if the popular wish is not respected.

The First Lady’s Media Assistant Mr. Ayo Adewuyi, in an electronic mail to our correspondent’s enquiry yesterday, said: “The First Lady has no plan and she is not planning to instal any governor.

“There are party processes for primaries and election of governorship candidates and, to the best of my knowledge, she is not a member of the party organs responsible for that.

It is, therefore another calculated attempt by mischief makers to use her name for their selfish interests.

Continued on page 58

we will ask the minister to come with them. But, at the moment, it’s between the committee and the NNPC. The NNPC is a corporation.

We believe we can sort this out.

“We asked about the crude swap transactions; to know exactly what volumes are being swapped and what the

2015: Five governors in cold war with First Lady Continued from page 1

jor one, if President Goodluck Jonathan does not intervene.

“Even Bayelsa, the President’s state is not spared the looming crisis.

In Bayelsa State, the First Lady is said to be backing the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Domestic and Social Events, Dr. Waripomowei Dudafa, for governor of the state.

But Governor Seriake Dickson’s supporters are believed to be unhappy with the push for Dudafa, a plot that has become public knowledge.

Dudafa was Commissioner for Local Government under former Governor Timipre Sylva. He was to be nominated as Dickson’s running mate in the last election, until the decision was changed.

“In spite of denial by the Office of the First Lady, there is already a campaign office in Bayelsa for Dudafa called ‘The New Dawn.’ This is a derivative of The New Phase, which was Sylva’s campaign structure,” the source, who pleaded not to be named because of what he called sensitivity of the matter, said.

Dudafa’s purported en-

dorsement has created tension, such that some Bayelsans are having a rethink on their support for the President, it was learnt.

The source said as a sign of this, the large turnout of party members and Bayelsans welcoming the First Lady to the state has shrunk.

Dickson, however, said Dudafa’s candidacy is a mere “rumour”. He does not think the First Lady is working towards supplanting him.

But Bayelsa is not the only state where the First Lady’s influence has sparked a cold war.

In Akwa Ibom, the First Lady is alleged to be teaming up with ex-Governor Victor Attah to back the immediate past Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Umana Okon Umana, from Uyo Senatorial District on the state as Akpabio’s successor.

Umana’s candidature is against the state’s zoning formula and power rotation pact.

Akpabio is said to be unhappy about this.

Eket zone is favoured to produce the next governor, Umana is from Uyo district that produced Attah.

The governor is said to favour the SSG, Mr. Udom Emmanuel, although commissioners for Justice and Local Government are also in the race.

In Rivers State, Mrs. Jonathan is alleged to be interested in installing Senator George Thompson Sekibo, her kinsman from Okrika, as governor. There are fears that the First Lady may dump Minister of Education Nyesom Wike who has been the arrowhead of the “gang-up” against Governor Rotimi Amaechi.

Said a source: “Many stakeholders are not happy that Wike, an Ikwere man like Amaechi, might be sacrificed in the end after leading the anti-Amaechi battle.

“The party is also thinking of facing a dilemma in Rivers State because power ought to shift to Rivers Southeast, which include the Ogoni and the Kalabari.”

The popular thinking in Delta State is that the First Lady has sympathy for a woman as Uduaghan’s successor.

It was learnt that there is a plan to use Delta State for the experiment to produce the first woman governor.

From Tony Akowe, Kaduna

insurgents which has been spreading fast in the north.

The Vice President, who assured of government’s readiness to ensure justice and fairness to all Nigerians irrespective of religion or ethnicity, added that the President had accepted to appoint a Special Adviser on Islamic Affairs.

Sambo said: “Mr President has also accepted my recommendation to appoint a special adviser on Islamic affairs. Government will see to the end of the barbaric acts of insurgency in the country. We are making efforts to ensure harmony between farmers and pastoralists, we have strategised on how to stop the constant crises between farmers and pastoralists.

“We are making efforts to address the issue of grazing range and grazing reserves.”

The Sultan reiterated his complaint that Muslims were being marginalised, particularly in the representation at the Continued on page 58

‘Nigeria, others lose $50b’ countries and build capacity to track and stop this illegal transfers of the continent’s wealth.

The ministers are seeking the engagement of the Bank and the Fund for the requisite training and skills required to deal with this type of crime, she added.

Mrs. Okonjo-Iweala, who is at the meeting with the Acting Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria CBN), Dr. Sarah Alade, Director, Budget Office, Dr. Bright Okogu, DirectorGeneral, Debt Management Office (DMO), Dr. Abraham Nwankwo and other senior officials including, Dr. Ahmed Mansur, said the economic developments in the United States and Europe, have thrust upon Nigeria the need to adopt certain measures to protect the economy.

“The biggest focus about these meetings is looking at the global recovery , looking at a

Senate to summon Alison-Madueke over N10b private jet

HE Senate is to summon Petroleum Resources Minister Mrs. Diezani Alison-Madueke, should the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) fail to tender documents relating to her N10 billion private jet expenses.

The House of Representatives is to probe the issue as from April 28.

HE membership of the national conference will undergo an adjustment, Vice President Namadi Sambo said yesterday.

This is sequel to the complaint by an Islamic delegation to President Goodluck Jonathan, led by the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar.

The delegation complained that the Muslims are underrepresented at the 492-member conference.

“On the imbalance of the national conference between Muslims and Christians, I want to confirm that Mr. President has directed that positive action be taken on the matter,” Sambo said yesterday in Kaduna at the 50th anniversary lecture of the Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI). The body is led by the Sultan.

Sambo said the government was taking steps to address the persistent clashes between Fulani herdsmen and farmers in parts of the countryin response to the concern expressed by the Sultan on the activities of the

group of countries and what needs to be done for them to either strengthen their position and make sure that whatever the circumstance, they are able to prevail and come out with a strong economy.

“The other issue is that the recovery is on, but the one in the Euro-Zone is quite fragile.

The reason for the fragility may be what looks to be an extended period of low inflation, which is not a good thing because it means that demands for goods and services is suppressed, and there’s even a fear of deflation, of fallen prices in Europe, as it happened in Japan.”

The implication, she argued, is that if these countries in Europe continue to suffer from a period of low pricing, internal demand for goods and services will be low, meaning that the rate of recovery for those economies will be either slowContinued on page 58

•Uduaghan

“It is also expedient to state clearly that the First Lady does not meddle in the affairs and selection process of the ruling party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

“Consequently, there is no way she can dictate or instal anybody in political offices. In the case of Rivers State, the First Lady wishes to state catContinued on page 58

ADVERT HOTLINES 08023006969, 08052592524

THE NATION MONDAY, APRIL 14, 2014

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THE NATION MONDAY, APRIL 14, 2014

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NEWS

A supersized e

•Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola cutting the tape to inaugurate the Eko Signature at Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos… at the weekend. With him are Managing Director, Eko Hotels, Mr. Ghassan Faddoul (left), Executive Chairman, Eko Atlantic, Mr. Ronald Chagoury (second left) and Chairman, Eko Hotels, Mr. Richard Herb

Nigeria has released figures suggesting the oil-rich country has overtaken South Africa in terms of gross domestic product (GDP).

But do the numbers reflect reality? Asks Deutsche Welle

N •Managing Director, Marketing Edge, Mr John Ajayi (left); President, National Institute of Marketing, Alhaji Ganiyu Koledoye, Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, Brand Ville Ltd, Mr. Bola Akingbade and Chairman of the occassion, Mr. Biodun Shobanjo, PHOTO: JOHN EBHOTA at the Marketing Edge’s 10th anniversary at the Federal Palace Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos.

IGERIA has long boasted the highest population in Africa, but now it is also officially home to the continent’s strongest economy. Recent calculations from the Nigerian statistics office estimate the value of the country’s economy at around •369 billion ($509 billion) - nearly twice as high as previously thought.

South Africa, long the economic frontrunner on the continent, has a GDP of •229 billion ($315 billion).

But what may come as a shock to most laypeople is less surprising to some experts. The director of the Standard Chartered Bank’s Africa

•President Goodluck Jonathan

department, Razia Khan, recently authored a study championing Nigeria’s economic might.

“Nigeria’s economy will achieve global relevance this year,” Khan said in an interview with Deutsche Welle.

When advising clients who are planning investments in Africa, Khan is quick to express her enthusiasm about Nigeria. “There is absolutely no way around it,” she said. But other observers are more cautious and even warn that the latest statistics should not be viewed as a precise appraisal of economic life in Nigeria, but rather as a forecast. The new calculations

GDP rebasing will attract investors to Nigeria, says World Bank chief economist

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•Nutrition and Health Manager, West Africa, UNILEVER, Mr. Victor Ajieroh (middle) speaking at the Nutrition Education Programme organised by Nutrition Society of Nigeria (NSN) in Lagos...at the weekend. With him are Director of Nutrition, Lagos State Ministry of Health/President, Lagos chapter of NSN, Dr. Abimbola Ajayi (left) and NSN President Prof Ngozi PHOTO: MUYIWA HASSAN Nnam

•Managing Director, Willemsen Hospitality, Snder Willemsen (left) greeting Chairman, Grand Towers Nze Chidi Duru at the first year anniversary of Grand Towers Hotel, Abuja...at the weekend. With them are General Manager of PHOTO: ABAYOMI FAYESE Grand Towers Sofia Gambino (second left) and the company’s Architect Nkoga Duru

R. Francisco Ferreira, World Bank Chief Economist, African region, said the rebasing of Nigerian economy would attract more investors into the country. He made the remark in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Washington on the sideline of the Spring Meeting of the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank.

It would be recalled that the rebasing of Nigeria’s nominal Gross Domestic Product (GDP) placed it at 509.9 billion dollars in 2013 from initial 285.56 billion dollars. The rebasing then placed the country as the biggest economy in Africa, ahead of South Africa. The World Bank chief economist then said “Nigeria’s GDP, which placed the country as Africa’s largest economy, has exposed its investment potential to the world.’’

He added that the rebasing had exposed sectors where Nigeria’s economy recorded dynamic growth, stressing that such areas would attract more investment inflows. He noted that apart from attracting investors, the rebasing would also expose those areas of the economy that had not witnessed astronomical growth.

Ferreira called for aggressive regional integration drive to drastically reduce cost among African countries. He said that “a situation whereby different countries in the region pursue immigration and trade policies that hinder trade and movement is expensive and wasteful.” Earlier in his presentation on “Sustaining Growth in Africa: State of the Africa Nation’’, the World Bank official said Africa had recorded

•Ferreira

about 20 years of resilient growth with per capita rates hovering around 2.4 per cent in the last decade.

According to him, growth is investment-driven rather than consumption everywhere on the continent. He noted that fast-growing non-resource rich economies generally have solid balance of payment profiles, pointing out however, that there was no room for complacency. He added that growth was uneven across countries, adding that what he described as “growth spurt” was not recorded in 22 countries over the 1995-2012 period.

“Among the 22 fast growers are oil producing countries, including Nigeria, Equatorial Guinea, Angola, Sudan and Chad, while non-oil resource nations in the fast growers scale are Liberia, Mozambique, Tanzania, Botswana, Ghana, Namibia, Sierra Leone and Zambia.

In the category of non-resource rich fast growers are Mauritius, Cape Verde, Uganda, Burkina Faso, Malawi, Rwanda, Lesotho, Ethiopia and Central African Republic.”

THE NATION MONDAY, APRIL 14, 2014

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d economy with supersized problems

•Finance Minister Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala

are higher than before because parameters have been adjusted to reflect modern conditions for the first time since 1990. Revenues from the telecommunications industry, for instance, as well as the film industry Nollywood, have finally been included.

An economic powerhouse on a shaky foundation When asked about the facts behind the figures, Michael Monnerjahn, who follows economic and political developments in Africa for the Africa Association of the German Economy, just shakes his head. “The absolute value of gross domestic product is

A

S if by magic, Nigeria has declared itself the biggest economy in Africa. Overnight, with the wave of a statistical wand, it has added 89% to its GDP, now worth $510 billion, and soared past the previous leader, South Africa, worth $370 billion. Nothing has changed in Nigeria’s real economy, except the way it is measured. Yet the magic matters.

The GDP revision is not mere trickery. It provides a truer picture of Nigeria’s size by giving due weight to the bits of the economy, such as telecoms, banking and the Nollywood film industry, that have been growing fast in recent years.

Other countries perform similar statistical magic—Ghana, for example, added 60% to its economy in 2010—though few wait two decades, as Nigeria inexcusably did, to update the national accounts. In Nigeria’s case, the new numbers confirm that it really is the colossus of the continent.

Its economy has been growing at an average rate of around 7% a year over the past decade. It is rich in resources, especially oil. It has energetic entrepreneurs and aspirations to be the tech hub of Africa, boasting startups such as Konga and Jumia, budding Nigerian Alibabas. In other industries, it has giants such as Dangote Cement, which plans to list in London—as a big oil firm, Seplat, did this week—and is likely to become part of the portfolio of many pension funds. Growing numbers of foreigners wanting to invest in Africa’s rise will buy Nigerian stocks; after Johannesburg, Lagos has the biggest, most liquid market in the region. Above all, Nigeria has lots of people: more than 170m of them. One in five people

not terribly helpful, especially in a place like Nigeria where 90 percent of export earnings are tied to oil,” Monnerjahn said, adding that even if Nigeria’s GDP is in the same league as that of South Africa, the two countries are far from equal.

South Africa, he said, has a much more mature and sophisticated economy.

“They have their own carmakers, machine manufacturers and chemical producers,” he said. One thing Nigeria does have is oil, but its status as the eighth-largest oil exporter in the world puts it in a precarious situation. Prices on the global mar-

•Statistician-General Dr. Yemi Kale

ket for crude oil are fickle and most refineries are located abroad. But Nigeria has little else, even if the mobile communications market and construction industry in Nigeria are booming and films produced in “Nollywood” are selling well internationally. As Khan notes, Nigeria still lacks important, socalled micro-level indicators.

“Do the millions of people there have purchasing power? How strong is the retail sector? How does Nigeria spend its revenue?” she asked. Nigeria’s dependence on oil exports makes it vulnerable to market fluctuations

Nigeria’s strength is in its people Nigeria’s most compelling selling-point for investors is its 170 million people. The country has the seventh highest population in the world and investors’ formula is simple: lots of people plus ample opportunity equals growth.

Yet even here, Khan warns that people who produce and consume are not enough to ensure a stable economy. So what is Nigeria lacking? First and foremost, it needs functioning infrastructure. Logistics costs in Africa are higher than anywhere else in the world. Second, it requires a diversified eco-

nomic landscape. Third, while Nigeria may indeed be the strongest country in Africa in terms of GDP, 63 percent of Nigerians live below the poverty line even after a decade of stable growth. “The new figures reveal a growing disparity between a strong GDP and a high number of people living on a dollar a day,” Khan said.

Additionally, the pace at which the middle class is growing is too slow. The economy has improved sharply but most wealth is concentrated among a small urban middle class. “Too little of Nigeria’s economic development is felt by the general population, especially in northern Nigeria,” said Monnerjahn.

South Africa has welcomed Nigeria’s rise. Monnerjahn described the South African economy as “stagnant,” adding that this has to do with the dominance of the ruling African National Congress (ANC), which “caters to particular interest groups, such as unions.”

The bump also has to do with changes in the country’s energy sector. “Energy was until now rather inexpensive in South Africa. For decades there was very little investment,” said Monnerjahn. Money will now have to be pumped in to this sector, and that will increase the cost of energy and make South Africa more expensive for investors.

“Anyone starting from scratch in Africa doesn’t automatically turn to South Africa anymore. Instead they shop around,” Monnerjahn said.

For its part, South Africa’s reaction to the new Number One have been largely positive. On Monday, the Ministry of Finance in Pretoria lauded Nigeria’s rise in status. “The announcement gives concrete expression to the fact that Africa is indeed rising,” the statement read.

Africa’s new Number One

‘

The country may be a giant, but it is still poor: Nigeria ranks 153rd out of 187 countries in the UN’s Human Development Index. Despite the rapid growth of recent years, unemployment remains high and the number of people in poverty has actually increased.

’

in sub-Saharan Africa is Nigerian.

Come 2050, the UN expects there to be around 440m Nigerians, by then far outnumbering the 400m or so Americans.

But the new GDP figures also provide a useful reminder of what must change. The clearest lesson is for sluggish, complacent South Africa, which has long taken its status as the continent’s giant for granted. With Nelson Mandela dead, it looks ever less like a rainbow nation. The ruling African National Congress is tainted by corruption: President Jacob Zuma is trying to explain how the state spent $24m on his private home. Without economic and politi-

cal reform, it will slip further behind.

But Nigeria, too, has plenty to do.

Size isn’t everything The country may be a giant, but it is still poor: Nigeria ranks 153rd out of 187 countries in the UN’s Human Development Index. Despite the rapid growth of recent years, unemployment remains high and the number of people in poverty has actually increased. Even with the revised figures, GDP per head is only $2,700; South Africans are more than twice as rich. Whereas large parts of South Africa have a rich country’s infrastructure, Nigeria suffers from clogged traffic and chronic power cuts. Lack of development is help-

ing to breed an insurgency in the mainly Muslim north and stokes violence elsewhere that creates no-go areas for foreigners. And the numbers also show its growth rate is slipping—to perhaps 6.5% this year. To absorb the millions of young people pouring into the labour market, Nigeria requires the sustained doubledigit growth that China has shown to be possible.

To achieve that needs reforms of the sort that President Goodluck Jonathan has, with the big exception of electricity privatisation, largely failed to bring about. He should attack corruption: instead, he sacked the central-bank governor (Sanusi

Lamido Sanusi) who raised the alarm over billions of dollars in oil revenues missing from the state coffers. Tax-collection is woefully inadequate; the bigger GDP number shows tax revenues to be even smaller as a share of the economy than previously thought. And the barriers to doing business are formidable, from bureaucracy and graft to port delays and murky land rights. Foreign companies that tough it out in Nigeria—the likes of Shoprite stores, Nestlé for food and SABMiller in booze—have shown they can prosper. Even so, it is not a place for the faint-hearted.

So let Nigeria celebrate its newfound status for a moment. And then let it get on with the task of living up to being Africa’s Number One. First published in The Economist on April 12

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THE NATION MONDAY, APRIL 14, 2014

NEWS ALGON: we support state, community policing From Victor Oluwasegun, Abuja

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HE Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) has backed the creation of state police as well as community policing.

The union said this would halt the rising spate of crime and insurgency in the country.

Addressing reporters in Abuja, ALGON National President Nwabueze Okafor said the time had come for the states to be involved in the management of police at their levels.

“I am of the opinion that though we have federal police, the state governments should be more involved in the management of the police force in the states.

“Community policing is very important; it’s a wonderful programme. I can tell you that in 1985, when the Nigerian Police Force decided to post officers between the ranks of Deputy Inspectors of Police to Inspectors of Police to their states of origin, we found a change.

“A lot of them started leaving the force because they could not operate in their communities and still perpetuate some of the things they were doing outside their communities. They could not afford to do that because their communities know them.

“It’s because when you’re working in your community and local government, where the people know you, there are things you can do but cannot get away with.”

The ALGON president said such an approach to policing engenders better police-community relations, which is essential for crime reduction and prevention.

Tank farm owners blast minister’s critics

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HE Jetty and Petroleum Tank Farms of Nigeria (JEPTFON) has decried the “malicious and deliberate” attacks on the Minister of Petroleum Resources, Mrs. Diezani AlisonMadueke, by those it called “disgruntled and misguided elements” disguising as anticorruption crusaders.

In a statement yesterday in Lagos, JEPTFON, which is an umbrella body of jetty and tank farm owners, regreted that rather than concentrate on the achievements of the minister, the whistle blowers would “rake up every imaginary allegation of wrongdoings to sustain their bitter and unwarranted attacks against her”.

It added: “These persons will never acknowledge the evident achievements of the minister in the oil and gas industry of the economy as their stock-in-trade is to feed the public with deceit and falsehood”.

The association defended the minister for “her innovative and effective leadership,” adding that as key players in the sector, it was well placed to commend her for the landmark changes she has made in the ministry.

JEPTFON listed the enactment of the Nigeria Content Act, which aims to increase the percentage of petroleum industry contracts awarded to indigenous firms, as one of the legacies of Mrs. AlisonMadueke in the foreign dominated Oil and Gas sector.

2015: APC chides Jonathan for premature campaign

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HE All Progressives Congress (APC) has accused President Goodluck Jonathan and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) of engaging in crass lawlessness by their serial violation of the country's electoral law, under the guise of liberation, family or unity rallies across the country.

In a statement yesterday in London by its Interim National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, APC said the President exhibited a gross abuse of executive power by leading his party to prematurely kick-start the campaign for the 2015 elections, in violation of the law.

The party noted that if the action was anything to go by,

By Olamilekan Andu

the 2015 elections would be everything but free, fair and credible.

It urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to assert its independence, if it has any, by sanctioning the lawbreakers, “since no one is above the law”.

APC warned that if INEC fails to act, it would lose any moral authority to stop other parties from also hitting the hustings ahead of time.

It said: “Hiding under nomenclature, this President has led his party to engage in brazen lawlessness and shameless impunity. They have gained an undue advan-

tage over other parties, or beaten the gun, in athletics parlance. Therefore, they should suffer the consequences of their action, the least of which is a strong public rebuke, to be followed by stipulated sanctions, if they persist.

“If nothing is done to check this lawlessness, Nigerians should brace up for more in the days ahead. What example is the President laying by violating the law? What signal is he sending to Nigerians about the need to respect the laws of the land? When a President brazenly violates the electoral law under the guise of some rallies, has he not started election rigging?

Has he not already started compromising the electoral

umpires and the security agencies?

“We know the President’s conniving handlers and advisers do not appreciate that a higher standard of conduct is expected of the President of Nigeria, through his statements, actions and body language. Unfortunately, everything points to the fact that the President, by his serial violation, is telling Nigerians and the whole world loud and clear that the coming elections will neither be free fair nor credible!”

APC said when Dr Jonathan boasted in Enugu last Friday, at the so-called Unity Rally, to capture the Southeast in 2015, he was engaging in elec-

tioneering, rather than reunification, campaign.

The party urged the President to concentrate his energy on putting Nigerians back to work, ensuring the security of life and property and stopping the massive looting of the common wealth under his watch.

“A President who cannot even commiserate with the families of innocent school children who were violently hacked down under his watch has no qualms about skirting around the scene of the dastardly act in the name of electioneering campaign. Yet, he has the temerity to point accusing fingers at others. What a cruel irony!” APC said.

Lawmakers, stakeholders seek prompt passage From Eric Ikhilae, Abuja

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•From left: Kaduna State Governor Mukhtar Yero; House of Representatives Speaker Aminu Tambuwal; Vice President Namadi Sambo and Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa'ad Abubakar III, at the launch of Jama'atu Nasril Islam (JNI) almanac to mark the JNI golden jubilee in Kaduna...yesterday. PHOTO:NAN

Senate orders probe into INEC’s alleged disregard for court judgments

S

ENATE President David Mark has directed that investigation be conducted into alleged refusal of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to obey court judgments.

Mark’s directive was particularly to the Senate Committee on INEC, headed by Andy Uba. The committee is to investigate the commission’s alleged “flagrant refusal to comply with valid and subsisting orders”, with focus on the direct implications of such refusal.

The Senate President’s position is contained in a letter, dated April 1, by his Special Assistant on Public Affairs, Victor Abang.

The letter acknowledged the receipt of the allegations in the petition, a copy of which The Nation obtained in Abuja at the weekend.

Abang said the petition “has

•Group: commission’s defiance threatens electoral process From Eric Ikhilae, Abuja

been referred to the Chairman, Senate Committee on INEC for further necessary action.”

The petition, dated March 31, was written to Mark by a group, Partners for Electoral Reform (PER), with copies sent to President Goodluck Jonathan and other stakeholders in the country’s democratic project.

The group alerted the stakeholders to the possible threat the INEC refusal posed to the nation’s electoral process.

It warned that if not urgently checked, INEC’s continued defiance to court orders and judgments could derail the democratic process.

PER, in the petition written by a lawyer and rights activist, Malachy Ugwummadu, referred to about six cases in which the court had allegedly given orders against INEC and which the commission disobeyed.

The group referred to, among others, the judgment given against INEC and others by Justice Ibrahim Auta of the Federal High Court, Abuja, on January 28, in a suit filed by a firm, Bedding Holdings Limited (BHL).

INEC allegedly disobeyed the court verdict.

The court, in the judgment, held that BHL possessed a valid and subsisting patent right over the process of application of the Direct Data

Capture (DDC) machines for voter registration.

It ordered that INEC and others first obtain BHL’s consent before applying the company’s patented process.

PER noted that although INEC was not the only government agency that disregard court orders, the implication of the commission’s refusal to obey court orders, especially those related to the electoral process, was worrisome.

PER recalled that in all the cases filed against INEC and others by BHL, the courts have “recognised and pronounced the plaintiff as the undisputed and bona fide exclusive patentee of the transparent ballot boxes as well as the owners of the patent rights and copyright in and over the process and application of the products used for voters’ register”.

N1b pension scam: Railways board meets this week

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HE axe of the board of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) may, this week, fall on over 70 workers of the corporation, including some senior officials indicted by a panel of enquiry into the missing N1 billion pension funds.

The board, under the chairmanship of Alhaji Bamanga Tukur, is expected to sit on April 16 and 17 to peruse the report submitted by the panel, headed

by Director Mechanical and Electrical, Fidet Okhiria.

The panel was set up by the NRC Managing Director, Prince Adeseyi Sijuwade, to probe the missing funds.

The panel reportedly uncovered the scam, which is suspected to have been going on for three years.

By Adeyinka Aderibigbe

It blew open when the management asked the Accounts section to prepare the settlements of some of its directors who are to retire early next year.

While two of the affected directors have been suspended, others, who are in the Accounts, Audit, and Personnel departments of the corporation, were asked to go on compulsory leave pending investigation into the level of their complicity in the N1 billion pension scam.

Among those allegedly having a case to answer, according to a top official, are two top directors and a former Secretary to the corporation.

Others, it was learnt, are two assistant directors and an accountant in the office of the NRC board chairman.

Our correspondent learnt that many of the suspected scammers may lose their jobs, if the case is proved against them.

The cat was said to have been let out of the bag when the Assistant Director Finance, Mr Euna Igbe, refused to buy an exotic Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) to settle one of the directors.

The Nation source said N16 million was traced to the account of one of the directors while N300 million was traced to a deputy director.

An Accounts Department worker, whose bank account was allegedly used as the conduit pipe for sharing the stolen fund, allegedly had N70 million in his account.

The exercise that exposed the scam was among those the management and the new board started to sanitise the corporation and improve its financial base.

HE Senate has been urged to urgently pass the Administration of Criminal Justice (ACJ) Bill 2013.

The Bill, which is pending before the Senate, is to end the delay and challenges associated with the nation’s criminal justice system.

The Chairman of the House of Representatives’ Committee on Justice, Dr. Ali Ahmad; a member of the committee, Dr. Stella Odogwu; a member of the Panel on Implementation of Justice Reform (PIJR), Prof Yemi Akinseye-George (SAN) and other stakeholders in the Criminal Justice sector spoke in Abuja.

They stressed the importance of the Bill to the nation’s growth, arguing that it would work against the country’s quest for development, should its passage be delayed beyond the tenure of the current National Assembly.

Ahmad said the Bill, passed by the House of Representatives last December and transmitted to the Senate for similar action, contains far-reaching proposals for removing the obsolete aspects of the country’s criminal justice system and replacing them with innovative and modern provisions capable of promoting speedy delivery of justice in criminal trial.

Highlighting the economic and social benefits of the Bill if enacted into law, Ahmad hoped that the Senate would ensure its urgent passage into law.

He noted that the Bill combines all other separate Bills intended to reform the nation’s criminal justice system.

“The nation’s Justice sector is in a mess. But we have decided to take the Criminal Justice sector first, because it affects the liberty of the citizens. After this one is passed, we can then look at the other aspects of the justice system.

“This Bill must be passed in the next two to three months, before the tenure of this National Assembly lapses,” Ahmad said.

The lawmaker stressed that unless an urgent action is taken, the victims of the current problematic and obsolete system would continue to suffer.

Dr. Odogwu highlighted the various innovative provisions in the Bill and called for the people’s support to ensure the Bill’s prompt passage by the Senate.

Prof Akinseye-George, who is the Convenor of the Technical Working Group of PIJR on ACJ Bill, said the nation would reap more - socially and economically - from an effective criminal justice system.

THE NATION MONDAY, APRIL 14, 2014

7

NEWS 2014 PALM SUNDAY

Christians mark Palm Sunday •Abuja, Lagos, Abeokuta residents celebrate HRISTIANS in Abuja, "Jesus' triumphant entry ‘The entrance Lagos and Abeokuta, into Jerusalem on a donkey the Ogun State capital, was depicted on an early of Jesus into joined other faithful around 1900's Bible card illustration. the world yesterday to mark "The church re-enacts or celJerusalem on a the feast of "Passion Sunday", ebrates Christ's entrance into donkey symbalso known as Palm Sunday Jerusalem to accomplish his with a call on Nigerians to paschal mystery. Jesus' triolised his huembrace peace. umphant entry into JerusaThe News Agency of Nigelem was recorded in the four mility and simria reports that unlike in the gospels. plicity as a past, some of the processions "Palm Sunday is marked by this year were held around the distribution of palm king. This is church premises to ensure the leaves, often tied into crosssafety of worshippers. es, to assembled worshipwhat all ChrisPalm Sunday or Passion tians are urged pers.

Sunday, according to the "Jesus rode on a donkey teachings of the church, into Jerusalem; the celebratto exhibit in marks the beginning of the ing people spread their Holy Week, the climax of the cloaks on the road, while oththeir various Lenten season. ers cut branches from palm callings’ It is a commemoration of trees and spread them on the

C •Bishop of Ibadan Catholic Diocese, Archbishop Gabriel Abegunri (third right performing open street Palm Sunday service at St. Mary Catholic Church, Oke Padre, Ibadan...yesterday PHOTO:NAN

•12-year-old Oladipo Solomon Olamidokun of African Bethlehem Cathederal Church, Lagos PHOTO: ABIODUN WILLIAMS Street, Ebute Metta, Lagos, riding a donkey...yesterday.

•Franklin Oha of St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Oke Padre, Ibadan, riding a horse to symbolise the triumphant entry of Jesus Christ into Jerusalem. PHOTO:FEMI ILESANMI

•Catholic faithful during Palm Sunday procession in Abuja...yesterday

PHOTO: NAN

•Young members of Army of Salvation, Motailatu Church, Cherubim and Seraphim Worldwide, Restoration Parish, Akute, Ogun State, during the Palm Sunday service...yesterday

the triumphant entry of Jesus Christ into Jerusalem, in preparation for his suffering and death on the cross.

The event is marked by processions among the clergy and the congregation, seen carrying palm fronts amid praises and songs.

NAN reports that special church services were held with faithful participating in the traditional procession, carrying palm fronts and chanting hymns, to mark the day.

At St. Peter-Clavers Chaplaincy, University of Abuja Staff Quarters, Giri, the faithful were seen in processions before moving to the church hall for service.

In his sermon, the officiating priest, Rev. Augustus Essien, urged Christians to imbibe humble, selfless, peaceful and loving to their neighbours, as exhibited by Jesus Christ in his passion and death.

He said Christ's passion and death on the cross was a perfect example of God's love for man, despite man's stubbornness and disobedience to His commandments.

The cleric urged Christians to always be guided by peace, "which is the true lesson of Jesus passion and death on the cross" noting that Nigeria was in dire need of peace.

At the St. Charles Lwanga Parish Apo, Abuja, Christians moved a few metres around the church premises and back into the church hall for the service.

The Assistant Parish Priest, Rev. Emmanuel Onuma, urged Christians, especially those in positions of authority, to be selfless in their service to the nation.

He said the message of "Passion Sunday" was sacrifice, selflessness and endurance, which Christ exhibited for the redemption of mankind.

"God has called you to be an instrument of liberation for the needy. Step out of your comfort zone and save others.

"I know it is not an easy task, but if you are determined to do it, God will give you the grace and strength to accomplish it," he said.

At Christ the King Catholic Parish, Kubwa, Abuja, the situation was the same.

Ffaithful were seen at the entrance to the church, wearing traditional attire for the event.

The officiating priest, Rev. Daniel Bot, advised Christians to reflect on the teach-

ings of Easter, particularly the lessons of Christ's passion.

Reading from Matthew 21, Bot said Christ taught his followers to exhibit humility in all their endeavours.

He noted that Jesus Christ, as king of the Jews, chose to ride on a donkey rather than a horse, like his contemporaries did during his time.

"The entrance of Jesus into Jerusalem on a donkey symbolised his humility and simplicity as a king. This is what all Christians are urged to exhibit in their various callings," he said.

The cleric said though it was often difficult for some people, especially those in high places, to sacrifice their comfort for others, such service was necessary for the work of salvation to be completed.

Bot said Easter is important in the lives of Christians, adding that without Christ's submission to the will of God, the plan of man's salvation would have been incomplete.

At the St Matthews Anglican Church, Gwarimpa, the Vicar, Canon Ephraim Akanya, urged Christians to be sober in their reflections during the holy week.

Akanya said the biggest message of Passion Sunday was that of peace.

The cleric said laying of palm leaves on the streets for Christ to ride signified peace.

According to him, despite the suffering Christ went through, he still called on his people to follow the path of peace, righteousness and sacrifice.

In Lagos, a Catholic cleric, Monsignor Gabriel Osu, urged Christians yesterday to live in peace and humble lives as taught by Christ's symbolic entry into Jerusalem.

Osu, the Director of Social Communications, Catholic Archdiocese of Lagos, made the appeal in a sermon at Our Lady Star of the Sea Catholic Church, Lekki, to celebrate yesterday's Palm Sunday.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Christians celebrate every Sunday preceding Easter in remembrance of Jesus Christ's triumphant entry into Jerusalem.

The cleric said Jesus Christ entered Jerusalem as the Prince of Peace and not a warwaging king.

He urged Christians to always conduct themselves peacefully as Christ's followers.

road," he said.

Also, the General Overseer of the Restoration Church, Pastor Joseph Okhiria-Abraham, urged Nigerian leaders to emulate Christ's teachings of service and humility.

He said: "Jesus showed humility even unto death for the benefit of humanity, not minding he was mocked and shamed, he still asked God to forgive those who tortured him."

The cleric noted that the triumphant entry of Christ into Jerusalem, which led to the festival of Easter, showed that if Nigerians believe in him, they would be victorious, no matter the obstacles.

"This week is considered the most holy of all the weeks during the church year. Christians should deeply ponder the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ during this sacred period.

"If we cannot forgive those who offended us and make peace with them, our prayers and fasting during this Lenten period will be meaningless and useless," he added.

In Abeokuta, Rev. Gregory Fadele urged Christians to use the holy week to pray for peace and security in Nigeria.

Fadele made the appeal in his sermon at Our Lady Seat of Wisdom Catholic Church, Adigbe, Abeokuta, to mark yesterday's Palm Sunday.

He urged Christians to emulate Christ by upholding his teachings on love and sacrifice.

The priest said Palm Sunday celebration ushers in the beginning of the holy week, which is the last week of Lent in the orthodox Christian calendar.

He added that the holy week is a time for prayer, reflection and spiritual works.

The cleric urged Christians to use the holy week to reshape their life style and shun every act unpleasant to Christ and the Church.

"I want Christians to use this period to show love to their neighbours, by lifting the burden from the shoulders of those around them; those who may be experiencing some form of difficulty.

"This is a time you can offer help and assistance to the less-privileged, sacrifice yourself for God because Christ sacrificed and showed love to everyone.

"So, it is payback period for us Christians to reflect Christ's kind of love to our neighbours," he said.

THE NATION MONDAY APRIL 14, 2014

8

NEWS

Ondo by-election: APC candidate urges INEC to cancel poll

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HE Ondo State All Progressives Congress’ (APC’s) candidate in the Ilaje/Ese-Odo Federal Constituency byelection, Chief Adewale Omojuwa, at the weekend, urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to cancel the inconclusive April 5 by-election and conduct a fresh one.

Speaking with reporters in Akure, the state capital, Omojuwa said the by-election was marred by irregularities.

He alleged that the constituency was turned into a battle field by Labour Party (LP) and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leaders.

Omojuwa said: “I am not desperate about the outcome of the election. If it was free, fair and devoid of irregulari-

•’It was marred by irregularities’ •Arogbo residents demand supplementary poll From Leke Akeredolu and Damisi Ojo, Akure

ties, I would have accepted the outcome, knowing well that there can only be one winner in a contest. I would have openly congratulated the winner, if I did not emerge winner.

“But what occurred last Saturday was a direct “struggle for power” between the LP and PDP, ably represented

by Federal Government officials from the state and outside.

“Nay, what was supposed to be a democratic exercise through which Ilaje/Ese-Odo people would elect their representative turned out to be a do-or-die contest between the LP and the PDP.

PUBLIC NOTICE MOUNT OF HOPE DELIVERANCE MINSTRY This is to notify the general public that the above named church has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) Abuja for registration under Part C of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. PASTOR SYLVESTER JIMMY 2. MRS. GLORY JIMMY 3. MR. RICHARD UDOFIA

-

PRESIDENT

THE AIMS & OBJECTIVES INCLUDE: 1. To preach the good news of Christ.

2. To Evangelise the World.

3. To tell the world about the death and resurrection of Christ.

Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the RegistrarGeneral, Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) plot 420 Tigris Crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Garki, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

Dr. Victor Offiong Victor Offiong & Associates 42 Palm Street, Calabar Cross River State

“Prior to the election day, Governor Olusegun Mimiko neglected his constitutional duties and relocated to Igbokoda/Okitipupa with members of the State Executive Council. They deployed the state’s arsenals to sway the election outcome to favour his under performing administration. Hurriedly, he began inaugurating ridiculous projects.

“Officials of the PDP-led Federal Government, led by Kingsley Kuku, Olusola Oke and Minister of State for Defence Musiliu Obanikoro, also abandoned their official functions in Abuja and relocated to Ilaje/Ese-Odo to monitor electoral activities.

“On the Election Day, various acts of electoral irregularities were perpetrated by LP and PDP members. First, there were reports and widespread circulation of fake voter cards. This led to the

I

supplementary poll in the area.

In a statement after a meeting of traditional, religious, political and youth leaders from communities in Arogbo Ward Two, the people said their votes were important in the by-election.

The statement was signed by the Torunanawei of Ogidigba, Chief Morrison Tithiboh; the Amanaowei of Ebiaye/Gbaraungbini, Chief Josiah Pemi; the Ibe-atoru of Igangbo, Chief Fieleifa Buna; the Gbodo of Ewerebubogho, Chief Johnson Yeiyah; the Ago-Eri community; Boanerge M.J Ebeghe (JP); and Mr. Gabriel Ofoyeju.

The people said Arogbo Ward Two is an integral part of Ilaje/ Ese-Odo Federal Constituency.

Some youths suspected to be militants hijacked electoral materials in Arogbo

Ibadan agog for Olubadan’s centenary birthday

BADAN, the Oyo State capital, is agog for the centenary birthday celebration of the Olubadan, Oba Samuel Odulana, Odugade 1.

The monarch turns 100 today.

The week-long celebration was organised by the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII).

It begins today with a service at the famous St. Peter’s Cathedral, Aremo.

President Goodluck Jonathan and Governor Abiola Ajimobi are among eminent Nigerians expected at the service.

After the service, Baales, Mogajis and the 11 local government chairmen in Ibadan will pay homage to the monarch.

Senator Olufemi Lanlehin (Oyo South District) and former Abia State Governor Orji Kalu have felicitated with the Olubadan.

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cancellation of the election in three wards at Ogogoro. Election was cancelled in the 12 units of Arogbo Ward Two due to the invasion of hoodlums.

“At Ajapa, also in Arogbo, thugs belonging to a particular party reportedly stormed a centre and carted away ballot boxes. An NYSC member, Ismail Lawal, who was an INEC ad-hoc staff, confessed that he and other members of his team were held hostage for several hours by thugs loyal to a particular party and made to thumbprint thousands of ballot papers.”

Omojuwa, a former Chairman of the State Oil Producing Development Areas (OSOPADEC), told his supporters that he would never dump the APC. Also at the weekend, the people of Arogbo Ward Two urged INEC to fix a date for

Ward Two during the byelection.

They claimed that the government did not include them in the amnesty programme after they surrendered their arms.

Consequently, over 7,000 voters did not take part in the election.

Also at the weekend, an APC chieftain, Enas Mohammed, denied a report that he was planning to dump the party.

It was reported in a national daily (not The Nation) that Mohammed would be received by President Goodluck Jonathan into the PDP next week.

Mohammed, who was the former State Youth Leader of the defunct Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), described the report as the handiwork of mischief makers, who wanted to cause disaffection in Ondo APC.

•Lanlehin, Kalu hail monarch From Bisi Oladele and Oseheye Okwuofu, Ibadan

In a statement by his media aide, Olawale Sadare, Lanlehin described the monarch as “the greatest living hero of contemporary Africa”.

Lanlehin, who is the Ekarun Bamofin of Ibadanland, said: “This generation is, indeed, blessed with a legendary monarch in Oba Odulana, who has made indelible marks in many spheres of life as an upright individual and a courageous team player. It is on world record that Oba Odulana is a brave man, who fought gallantly as a soldier to restore global peace during the Second World War. “It is pertinent to reemphasise that our Kabiyesi is a brilliant one, who impacted and still impacts knowledge on both old and young minds. He

is a selfless man who served in politics to uplift the society; a blessed one who nurtured a generation of great minds and the revered one who leads a nation of warriors with success stories all the way.”

Lanlehin lauded the Olubadan’s decision to confer the chieftaincy title of Aare Akogun of Ibadanland on Senate President David Mark as part of activities marking his Centenary birthday celebration.

He said: “The Senate President deserves such honour, being a friend of Ibadan and a patriot.”

Kalu, in a statement by his Special Adviser, Prince Kunle Oyewumi, described Oba Odulana as “one of the few monarchs that command respect in the country”.

He said the Olubadan

•Olubadan

achieved this by jealously guarding the respect his revered throne deserves.

Kalu said the Olubadan should be commended for not engaging in partisan politics, “which could compromise his integrity and ability to speak up in the face of injustices and wrongs”.

He wished Oba Odulana many more years and good health in upholding Ibadan tradition and providing quality leadership to his people.

Mu’azu’s wish impossible, says Osun APC

HE All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State has described Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) National Chairman Alhaji Adamu Mu’azu’s statement that “it is difficult but possible for Senator Iyiola Omisore to lead the PDP to victory in the August 9 governorship election” as “wishful thinking”.

APC said it is “more of impossible than difficult.”

In a statement by its Publicity Director, Kunle Oyatomi, the party said what Mu’azu wishes for is equivalent to “replacing a Winston Churchill with an Adolf Hilter in Great Britain”.

APC said: “Omisore is the antithesis of Governor Rauf Aregbesola in every material.

These two people are poles apart. Mu’azu’s wish for Osun people is a poisoned chalice; it is evil. You cannot replace goodness with evil in broad daylight against the wish of the people who are beneficiaries of that goodness.

“What the PDP Chairman perhaps does not know is that Omisore’s only purpose for seeking governorship is his passion to reverse everything

From Adesoji Adeniyi, Osogbo

Aregbesola has done since November, 2010 to date.

“These include landmark projects and initiatives which the United Nation’s agencies, the British Parliament, the Deputy High Commissioner of Great Britain to Nigeria and several other international organisations have commended and cited as models for Africa and other developing countries.

“Even the PDP-led government acknowledged and replicated some of Aregbesola’s spectacular initiatives. So what could be their purpose for sponsoring a candidate who is sworn to destroy everything Aregbesola has done in the state?

“It is okay that, at least, the PDP Chairman recognises the difficulty of his misplaced wish to return PDP to power in Osun.

However, the APC assures Mu’azu that his party’s wish is outside the realm of possibility.”

However, Omisore urged security agencies to probe Aregbesola on his April 12 live broadcast.

Speaking through his media aide, Prince Diran Odeyemi, Omisore alleged that

Aregbesola, in the broadcast, incited the people to take up arms.

He said: “This open call to arms is the final stage of the governor and his party’s desperation in view of their imminent defeat in August. We call on security agencies to probe the governor and call him to order.

“The governor, in the live programme, openly incited the people to take up arms in August 9 governorship election.

Aregbesola, a week ago in an interview, declared that there

would be blood flowing in the state, if the PDP wins the election. We take these utterances by a man who is supposed to be the Chief Security Officer of the state to be a manifestation of gross irresponsibility, a direct threat to peace in the state and a reflection of defeatist attitude by the APC even before the election.

“We are shocked that the governor, by his conduct, has constituted himself into a security risk by directly threatening the peace of the state.”

Two die in Ondo road crash

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From Leke Akeredolu, Akure

WO people were killed on Saturday in an accident on the Owo-Ikare road in Ondo State.

Three others were injured.

It was learnt that they were on their way to write the Joint Admission and Matriculation Board (JAMB) Examination when the incident occurred.

Their identities are still unknown.

The Head of Operations of the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) in Ikare-Akoko, Mr. Samuel Ibitoye, said the injured were taken to the Ikare Specialist Hospital and Iwaro-Oka General Hospital.

The bodies were deposited in the morgue.

An eyewitness said the accident involved a Volvo tipper, a Nissan Almera and a white Peugeot J5 bus.

He said two of the vehicles were coming from Offa in Kwara State.

THE NATION MONDAY, APRIL 14, 2014

9

NEWS (SHOWBIZ)

Tuface Idibia, Bovi, others excite at Maggi Chicken launch

•Alabi

Biola Alabi gets Yale fellowship

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•Tuface and wife, Annie

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T was another exciting moment last week when award-winning Nigerian singer, Tuface Idibia, thrilled guests at the launch of the new Maggi chicken cube, amidst pomp and circumstance.

The sensational singer, who was accompanied by his wife, Annie, performed some of his popular songs to the admiration of the audience.

He was joined by Bovi, a stand-up comedian, and Toke Makinwa, who recently signed an endorsement deal with Maggi, at the well-attended event.

The show reached a crescendo when the celebrities performed their version of the Maggi Chicken dance.

The presence of hundreds of Maggi consumers, Nestle Nigeria officials, celebrities,

•Bovi

By Tonia ‘Diyan

media professionals and champions of Lagos kitchens, including Ghana High, White House, made the launch most memorable.

Annie narrated how she had, over the years, made her husband’s best meal of yam and beans tasty with Maggi, which described as her “special secret ingredient”. She also narrated how she cooked her husband’s first meal, using Maggi.

While unveiling the new Maggi, Nestlé’s Category Business Manager (Culinary), Guy Kellaway, said: “Maggi is all about innovation, constantly pleasing consumers and always one-step ahead of the game. We are very excited. It’s a renovated cube; it provides the best colour, aroma and taste to all your dishes. We encour-

age everyone to try it. Maggi is available in cube and tablet formats; it is already available for caterers and restaurants in large 800gramme powder format.”

Speaking on what informed the decision to re-launch the brand, the Brand Manager, Maggi, Emeka Nwodo, stated: “Maggi is the original seasoning and clearly the number one.

We have a high level of trust and that means we have to bring the best product into the market. Maggi star cube, which is the original cube, is totally unique. It is made of fermented soya beans, iodine salt fortified with iron, best colour and aroma of all chicken seasonings and taste.”

The brand, whose targets include old and young, is also strengthening its strategies to have more share of the market, a situation that informed

Fred Amata, Funsho Adeolu, Lydia Forson rock at AMAA nominees’ party

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HE Emperor Palace Hotel, Johannesburg, South Africa came alive recently, as a number of Nollywood stars, who were joined by actors, actresses and filmmakers from across Africa, gathered for the 10th edition of the African Movie Academy Award (AMAA) nominees’ party.

Some of the stars spotted dancing at the event were Fathia Balogun, Kunle Afolayan, Funsho Adeolu, Fred Amata, Kanayo.

O. Kanayo, Chinedu Ikedieze, his wife and Ghanaian-born Lydia Forson.

The party started when the CEO of AMAA, Peace Anyiam Osigwe, invited a Cameroonian band to perform a song titled Terima Jehovah.

Though different acts from

across the continent performed during the glamorous event, Nigerian music sensation, Kingsley Okonkwo, alias Kcee, wowed the crowd with his stagecraft.

The Limpopo crooner thrilled the crowd who sang along with him as he performed one hit song after the other.

The stars later attended an after-party at the popular Premiere Hotel, where they had fun before returning to Nigeria.

•Amata

•Adeolu

By Mercy Michael

NFC honours Animation Film Project winner

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HE Nigerian Film Corporation has presented the sum of N50, 000.00(Fifty thousand naira) to Okeremute Jonathan Ovuoroh, the winner of its Animation Film Project.

In a statement, Brian Etuk, the Head of Public Affairs, Nigerian Film Corporation, said: “His script, One Hundred Feathers, is to undergo treatment preparatory for production. The Nigerian Film Corporation initiat-

ed the ‘Film and Nigerian Project’ with the objective of providing the lead in the production of animation films that will feed the Nigerian child. The contents of such films are to portray Nigeria as truly a great nation with good people. The film project is conceived as a Public Private Partnership initiative.”

At the formal announcement of the winning script and the signing of an agreement between Okeremute Ovuorah and

the NFC, Dr. Danjuma Dadu, the Managing Director, said the animation project was in response to the yearnings of Nigerians on the need to strengthen the ethical values in the Nigerian child who, at present, is under intense foreign cultural and ethical influence.

The Ahmadu Bello University, through the Department of Fine Arts, is partnering the Nigerian Film Corporation on the film project.

the presence of popular restaurants like Ghana High and White House to give guests the opportunity to taste local and continental dishes prepared with Maggi during the launch.

Maggi chicken cube is one of the many flavours in the Nestlé Nigeria Plc. seasoning portfolio. Other Maggi seasoning flavours include Maggi Star cube, Maggi Crayfish and Maggi Mix’py in four different variants.

HE former Africa Managing Director of M-Net, Biola Alabi, has been named a 2014 Yale World Fellow, making her the seventh Nigerian selected for the fellowship since the inception of the programme in 2002.

While the programme lasts at the Yale’s campus in New Haven, Connecticut, Alabi will take part in specially designed seminars in leadership, management and global affairs; receive individualised professional development training; attend courses and engage in discussions with a wide range of distinguished guest speakers.

Until January when she was appointed the Director of Special Projects, Alabi served as Mnet’s Africa Managing Director for five years. During the period, she spent time increasing and enhancing M-Net’s African portfolio. She launched Africa Magic Hausa, Yoruba and Swa-

hili. She also expanded the Africa Magic brand to eight channels. Besides, she oversaw four editions of the popular reality series, Big Brother Africa, as well as the Face of Africa finale fashion and modelling extravaganza held in Nigeria in 2010.

Alabi, a 2012 World Economic Forum young global leader, was in 2013 voted the West African Businesswoman of the Year as well as one of the 20 Youngest Power Women in Africa by the Forbes magazine.

“Spending five years at the forefront of the flourishing African film and television industry with a business as dynamic and visionary as M-Net has been an incredible experience.

Now, as I look forward to immersing myself in the Yale World Fellows programme, I must express my sincere appreciation to M-Net for the opportunities I have had to learn and to lead,” she said.

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THE NATION MONDAY, APRIL 14, 2014

NEWS EKITI 2014

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•Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi (second left) receiving his Certificate of Return from the National Organising Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Chairman of the Screening Committee, Senator Osita Izonazo, after the party’s governorship primary in Ado-Ekiti...on Saturday. With Fayemi are (from left) Ekiti State Deputy Governor Prof. Modupe Adelabu; Fayemi’s wife, Bisi; House of Assembly Speaker Adewale Omirin; and the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Mr. Yemi Adaramodu.

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HE governorship candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in Ekiti State, Mr. Opeyemi Bamidele, has called for sanctions against parties that violate the Electoral Law. Bamidele, who is the Chairman of the House of Representatives’ Committee on Legislative Budget and Research, said Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Chairman Prof. Attahiru Jega must take punitive steps against parties found to be unruly.

In a statement by his campaign organisation, at the weekend, he said INEC should not wait until people are killed in daylight by desperate politicians before imposing sanctions to curb “mindboggling excesses”.

Regretting the “desperation” of some parties to win the June 21 election, Bamidele urged them to put the interest of the state above personal and narrow interests.

He said it was disheartening that some parties that pledged to make their campaigns issue-based reneged on their promises.

Bamidele said the LP had been conducting its campaigns lawfully, despite provocation from the opposi-

N25b bond necessary for growth, says Fayemi

HE Ekiti State government has described the N25 bil-

lion bond it obtained from the capital market in 2012 to fund some capital projects as the best option in view of the economic realities.

Commissioner for Finance and Economic Development Dapo Kolawole said the government settled for the bond after considering its options, including embarking on an aggressive tax drive to improve its revenue base.

He said Governor Kayode Fayemi insisted on seeking other ways, “rather than imposing extra-burden” on the people.

Kolawole said the government settled for the bond

Delegates at the governorship primary of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State, held at the Nelson Mandela Freedom Park in Osogbo...on Saturday.

Inset: Governor Rauf Aregbesola displaying his Certificate of Return after his emergence as the APC’s flag bearer in the August 9 poll.

With him are Chairman, Osun APC Primary Nomination Committee, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai (left); the Secretary of the Committee, Sir Emeka Akamukali (second right); a member of the committee, Hajiya Ramatu Aliyu (right) and others.

From Sulaiman Salawudeen, Ado-Ekiti

because it was the most transparent option.

He said it had a 14.5 per cent interest rate as against the normal bank lending rate of between 20 and 22 per cent and a longer repayment time of seven years.

Kolawole said less than two years after taking the bond, the Fayemi administration had judiciously used it to provide world-class infrastructure” and repaid over N11 billion.

He said the state was virtually comatose before the advent of the Fayemi administration, adding that the

agricultural sector had become almost non-existent and the education sector was in a shambles.

The commissioner said roads were barely passable and civil servants, owing to low morale, were inefficient.

He said the bond was taken to stimulate the economy and rapidly develop the state.

Kolawole listed projects executed with the bond to include 11 intra and inter township roads of over 170 kilometers, nine of which have been completed; a 10,000-seater pavilion in Ado-Ekiti, which is nearing completion; a four-storey

Bamidele seeks sanction for political violence

Liaison Office complex in Ikeja, Lagos State, which is nearing completion; and a Civic Centre, which has a 1500-seater amphitheater, three 150-seater cinema halls, three elevators, a museum and four floors of offices.

Others are the re-development of the Ikogosi Warm Spring into a tourist destination; resuscitation of the Ire Burnt Bricks factory; construction of a Government House complex; construction of lecture rooms, a multipurpose hall and hostel at the newly approved College of Technical and Commercial Agriculture and the completion of the Oba Adejugbe Hospital in AdoEkiti.

From Sulaiman Salawudeen, Ado-Ekiti

tion.

He said although some of his supporters had been intimidated, harassed and attacked since the campaigns began on March 23, the LP would not “betray the confidence reposed in it by the electorate”.

The lawmaker said: “We find it difficult to believe that some parties have derailed from their promises to make the campaigns issue-based and agenda-driven. Some parties no longer campaign about what they would do for the people, but take pleasure in character assassination.

“At campaign rallies, they pour invectives on perceived opponents.

They no longer tell the people what they have in the pipeline for them, if elected. Little wonder there were accusations and counter-accusations from different directions that parties were being attacked.

“INEC cannot afford to fold its arms to these shenanigans playing out in the polity else, the situation may escalate uncontrollably. INEC would have to invoke relevant provisions of the Electoral Act to check politicians, so that the election can be free, fair and devoid of bloodshed.”

Fayose: I won’t take up issues with APC

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HE governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ekiti State, former Governor Ayo Fayose, has said he will not take up issues with Governor Kayode Fayemi and the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the run down to the June 21 election.

According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Fayose told reporters in Abuja yesterday that: “This is not a sign of weakness on my part, but a sign of maturity, which I have gained over the years. I have vowed not to join issues with anyone on any matter between now and June 21.

“This is to show that Ayo Fayose is now more mature than he was when he was the governor of Ekiti State. I am going to focus on issues. My intention is to concentrate on our campaigns to ensure that we do not only win, but have landslide victory.’’

He said he would, henceforth, concentrate on his strategies to ensure that the PDP reclaims the state .

According to him, the strength of the APC at present is based on media propaganda.

Fayose challenged his critics, who accused him of corruption and other sundry vices while in office, to come up with fresh allegations.

THE NATION MONDAY, APRIL 14, 2014

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CITYBEATS Mall kicks off Easter fiesta Woman drugged into coma in Lagos hotel A

CITYBEATS LINE: 08023247888

By Tonia 'Diyan

TO reward its customers at Easter, a shopping outfit, Leisure Mall, based in Surulere, Lagos, will today kick off its ‘Easter Family Fiesta’. The promo will end at 2pm on Monday with a raffle draw.

Organisers said there will be free movie tickets courtesy Filmhouse; free crystal engraved pictures

by Deep Arg; free accommodation tickets to Durban, South Africa by Easy Holiday; free meal ticket by Barcelos; free shopping tickets by Mr. Price, and more than 500 free cocktail drinks by Blu Breeze; cocktail and lots more.

To enjoy the promo, shoppers are expected to spend up to N5,000 in any of the stores within the mall to get tickets to enter for the raffle draw at the grand finale.

Other activities lined up are: kiddies’ games, bouncing castle, face painting, egg hunt, candy floss and Friday night groove.

The mall’s consultant, Mrs Debola Majekodunmi, said to take their services to the next level, several innovations are being employed, including the fiesta.

“We are also coming up with a ‘link bridge’ between Leisure Mall and the Adeniran Ogunsanya Shopping Mall. It is the first of its kind,” she added.

22-year-old woman had a close shave with death last Saturday at a hotel in FESTAC Town, Lagos. She was allegedly drugged by a South African businessman until she went into coma.

The incident occurred at Carlton Gate Hotel, 7th Avenue area of the town in the evening on that day. It was gathered that the victim, Awe Rebecca, a resident of 21, Gani Adams Street, Shoba Town, came into the hotel about 3pm to meet a guest who was already lodged in a room.

The hotel’s manager, Andrew Iyere, said after about two hours in the room, the guest came down and stood by the stair-case, inviting a porter into his room.

He said: “The porter said the man looked troubled.

When he got there, he noticed a lady on the floor with blood coming out of her private part. The porter came to call me. When I got there, I saw the lady’s lifeless body with blood coming from her private part. I was scared.

The guest had dragged her back to the bed. The guest was behaving like an insane person. I called security

By Jude Isiguzo

guards who came and locked him up in the room. There was a bottle of Vodka and Alomo bitters in the room.

Those items were not purchased from the hotel.

“Immediately, I called my uncle who owns the hotel.

He asked me to call the police and I did. When the police came and opened the room, the guest saw them and started threatening everybody. He said he was going to deal with the hotel and that he was going to make sure the policemen lose their job. He described himself as a rich South African-based businessman. But the police arrested him.”

Iyere said minutes after the police took the suspect away, he was assisted by some people who were around watching the English Premiership football games to take the victim to the City of David Hospitals Limited on 721 Road, where she is being treated.

A doctor, Austeen Akaehomen, said: “She is not dead, but deeply unconscious. The blood was coming out from her womb, may be due to an infection

• Rebecca ... at the hospital

‘I saw the lady’s lifeless body with blood coming from her private part. I was scared.

The guest had dragged her back to the bed.

The guest was behaving like an insane person. I called security guards who came and locked him up in the room’ or a recent abortion. There is no tear of any kind.The good thing is that she is responding to a painful stimulus. We have conducted labo-

ratory analysis and discovered no injury in her private part. She was drugged but not raped. The police have also visited the patient and

confirmed that the suspect is in their custody.”

Investigations by The Nation revealed that the victim also work in Dublina Hotel at 4th Avenue in FESTAC. A police source hinted that the suspect usually meets the victim in the hotel whenever he is in town.

At the FESTAC Police Station where the suspect is being detained, a senior police officer confirmed he was brought in around 7.30pm last Saturday.

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THE NATION MONDAY, APRIL 14, 2014 CITYBEATS LINE: 08023247888

Rainstorm brings tears in Lagos

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HATTERED roofs, smashed ceilings and collapsed concrete structures. That was the scene yesterday in many parts of Lagos State, following an early morning rainstorm that destroyed property worth millions of naira.

The rain lasted about 45 minutes, but the magnitude of the destruction it left behind could not be immediately quantified.

In most parts of Ilupeju, a neighbourhood in Odi OlowoOjuwoye Local Council Development Area (LCDA), many tearful residents were counting their losses.

The worst hit areas are Iseyin and Adegboyega streets, off Oyewole Street, where about 10 houses had their roofs blown off. Residents ran out when an Internet server mast belonging to a Customs’ agency on 54, Iseyin Street fell on nearby buildings, injuring one person.

Another mast said to belong to a telecommunications company fell at Adebowale House, a popular electronics showroom in Onipanu, destroying the structure.

A victim, Mrs Abosede Dominic, broke down at the sight of her shattered two-bedroom apartment. She was returning from the morning mass. “I thank God that my ailing husband, mother and children I left in the house are not injured by flying objects,” she said repeatedly.

There is no more shelter for her household, at least, for now, because the ceiling of the two-storey building was blown off by the wind. Items in the rooms, including electronic gadgets and furniture, were covered by pieces of smashed building materials.

Mrs Dominic’s 19-year-old son, Olatunde, who was with his strokestricken father, said: “Everything happened suddenly. I was with my dad, grandmother and younger ones, discussing when the ceiling came down on us. Before we could get up, the roof had been removed by the wind. We had to assist my dad and grandmother out of the room to a safe place.”

Mr Olujimi Ogunbiyi, another victim, said: “I was in church when I received a call that something had happened. Then I rushed home and discovered that my room had collapsed.

The rain soaked everything in the house and damaged my electronics.

What happened is not good news for anybody, but we have to accept it with faith.”

The Customs’ agency’s mast fell on a provision shop where two teenagers were attending to customers. The Nation gathered that the teenagers, who are children of the shop owner identified as Iya Ahmed, ran out when the mast hit the roof. Both of them escaped unhurt but the shop, which is attached to House 50, caved in following the impact of the fallen mast.

Mallam Musa Garba, whose movable kiosk is beside the collapsed shop, was injured by the mast, which fell across Tawose Street.

A vulcaniser working on the spot, Sarafa Aliu, who escaped being hit by the mast, said: “I was with a customer in his car when the rainstorm started.

As I alighted from the car, the storm became intense and I sat under a shelter beside Mallam Musa’s kiosk. When the rain was becoming too much, I got up and ran towards a house. Before I got to the house, the mast fell on the spot I was sitting. The mast hit Iya Ahmed’s shop and I saw her two children running out of the shop for safety.”

A drama ensued when one of our reporters sought the view of the shop owner. Her husband told her not to speak. This drew the attention of some angry residents.

A youth and an elderly man attacked the reporter with an umbrella rod and dispossessed him of his writing materials.

“Your report can bring (Governor Babatunde) Fashola to this area; we don’t want that,” an angry resident said.

CITYBEATS

•It’s normal rain, says NiMet ‘I received a call that something had happened. Then I rushed home and discovered that my room had collapsed. The rain ... damaged my electronics...’

By Jude Isiguzo, Wale Ajetunmobi and Uyoatta Eshiet

Adeolu Awomolo, a resident of 15, Iseyin Street, whose roof was blown off, said he was preparing for church when he felt a vibration from the ceiling.

About 10 houses on Adegboyega and Iseyin streets had their roofs blown off. There are houses in Awoyokun, Egbeyemi, Adesiyan and Ilupeju streets, all in the community, which were affected by the storm. Although, there was no report of death, some occupants of the affected buildings were injured.

On Ijaiye Street in the Ajegunle area, over 500 buildings were affected. The rain also torched Ajeromi Public Primary School in the area.

Part of the roof of a three-storey building housing Christ the King Primary School, Orodu Street, was also affected.

Worshipers at the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) on Queens Street, in the same area escaped death as the roof almost collapsed on them.

An eyewitness, Jimoh Saka, said the rainstorm blew off the roof of a onestorey building which houses a mosque and a Muslim school, Mohinatu Ibrahimiyat Arabic School, on Moshalashi Lane.

The roof of a one-storey building on 40, Okito Street in the same area was blown off as other residents abandoned their homes in fear.

Another resident, Andrew Udoh, said: “Immediately the wind blew off our roof, I moved my wife and three children to my brother’s home in the Awodiora area of Ajegunle. But unfortunately, the rainstorm also blew off the roof of my brother. It is quite unfortunate.”

In Ebute-Metta area on the mainland, several buildings, including a police barracks, were affected.

Amukoko and Ijora seemed to be the worst hit.

In Ijora, The Nation gathered that the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witness on Town Hall Street and many houses were affected.

The roof of a two-storey building that was blown off blocked a major road in the area, causing a serious traffic snarl.

Residents of Alaba Oro Road in Amukoko on the outskirts of Lagos were rendered homeless.

At Palmgrove, Gbagada, Pedro and Bariga as well as its environs, tales of anguish were all over as the rainstorm blew off many roofs. Several residents experienced similar problems in Amuwo Odofin Local Government Area and Badagry.

However, the General Manager, Weather Forecast Services of Nigerian Meteorology Agency (NiMet), Mr Christopher Onu, has said that the rain’s pattern was normal.

Onu told News Agency of Nigeria (NAN): “The onset of the rainy season is always associated with violent wind which can cause some damages when it rains. It is a normal rain pattern as it was predicted during the Seasonal Rainfall Pattern report. We will also be expecting it at the end of the rainy season as predicted by NiMet between November and December.”

The Director-General of NiMet, Dr Anthony Anuforom, also said that based on the signal, this year will witness a shorter rainy season.

• Shattered Adebowale House ... yesterday

• A scene on Carter Street, Ebute-Metta

• A fallen mast on a roof on Iseyin Street

• Two of the affected structures on the mainland

PHOTOS: OMOSEHIN MOSES, ABIODUN WILLIAMS AND ADEJO DAVID

THE NATION MONDAY, APRIL 14, 2014

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COMMENTARY EDITORIALS

FROM OTHER LANDS

Rebasing rhetoric

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•Nigeria must ensure that reality aligns with perception

WENTY-three years after, Nigeria has finally revised its Gross Domestic Product (GDP), the total value of its goods and services. The results have been startling: the country’s GDP nearly doubled, rising 89 per cent from U.S. $283 billion to $510 billion, making it Africa’s largest economy and 26th largest in the world.

For a country that has long touted itself as the “Giant of Africa”, rebasing appears to confirm its self-perception and justify its sense of its place in the world.

Virtually overnight, Nigeria has put itself at the vanguard of the exciting new developments that characterise the world’s emerging economies. Economic sectors like telecommunications, information technology and entertainment have been incorporated into GDP, showing that the economy is in fact far more diversified

‘Given the Jonathan administration’s growing desperation to present a picture of economic growth ahead of the 2015 general elections, it is to be wondered whether the timing of the rebasing is more than mere coincidence. The current Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister for the Economy, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, was finance minister between 2003 and 2006; why did she not make a case for GDP rebasing then?’

than had hitherto been acknowledged.

The jump in nominal GDP brings with it an improvement in significant credit ratios, such as that of debt-to-GDP and interest payments to GDP, both of which are well within positive parameters. The country’s GDP per capita has risen to $2,689, higher than that of the Philippines and close to that of Morocco.

In spite of the good news Nigeria’s GDP rebasing appears to have brought, it does seem that it raises more questions than answers. There is the issue of why a fiveyearly exercise took more than 20 years to carry out. Given the Jonathan administration’s growing desperation to present a picture of economic growth ahead of the 2015 general elections, it is to be wondered whether the timing of the rebasing is more than mere coincidence.

The current Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister for the Economy, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, was finance minister between 2003 and 2006; why did she not make a case for GDP rebasing then?

There is also the point that GDP rebasing does not alter fundamental economic facts. Nigeria may now be Africa’s largest economy, but it still contends with an enormous infrastructural deficit, especially in the areas of power, roads, health and education. At about the same time that Nigeria’s new economic standing was announced, the World Bank declared that Nigeria, India and China had the greatest number of poor people in the world; the proportion for Nigeria is greater, given that the other two nations each have populations in excess of one billion people.

Rebasing has, in some cases, negatively

affected important indicators of economic well-being: fiscal revenues relative to GDP have fallen from 25 per cent to 14 per cent, on a par with Bangladesh and Guatemala; foreign exchange reserves relative to GDP are now much smaller. The ratio of interest payments to revenues remains unchanged, as is government’s revenue-generation capacity.

Nor does the GDP revision do anything to improve the negative attitudes that are the bane of the country. Far from lessening corruption and greed, it actually conveys the impression that the so-called national cake is even bigger than hitherto imagined, and therefore that there is more to share: this appears to be the thinking of the House of Representatives which last week demanded that the quarterly allowance of each member be increased to N45 million from the current N27 million. The country is still grappling with a host of corruption scandals in oil subsidies, pensions, duty waivers, employment recruitment and revenue remittances.

The best way to approach the rebasing of Nigeria’s GDP is to see it as an opportunity to embark on a new beginning. It does not only demonstrate how big the country actually is, but how great its potential is, and it offers indications of the ways in which that potential can be transformed into reality. If Nigeria can become a half-trillion dollar economy with all the infrastructural challenges it is facing, how much more would it achieve if the most pressing issues were properly dealt with? That is what government and the citizenry should focus upon.

Abuse of position

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•President’s wife perverts the process and ridicules her status with open support for aspirants

T has increasingly become difficult to sieve between right and wrong and even the good and bad in this unhallowed age. In this era of the parvenu, just anything goes, it seems. This would explain why the wife of the president, Dame Patience Jonathan, would openly admit that she endorses and supports a political aspirant. If only she understands the deeper import of her action?

Recently, some news reports had speculated that she planned to ‘install’ governors in three states of the federation in the coming election; the states being Bayelsa, Bauchi and Rivers. In a statement by her media assistant, she put out a vehement denial branding the report a figment of the imagination of the writers and noting that she does not meddle in the selection process of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

But in another breath, the same rebuttal says: “In the case of Rivers State, the First Lady wishes to state categorically that the supervising Minister of Education, Chief Nyesom Wike, is the leader of the PDP in Rivers State and he enjoys the followership of the people of the state. The First Lady is solidly behind Chief Wike.

“The people of Rivers State are also solidly behind Chief Wike and are prepared to follow him. It is therefore mischievous to insinuate that Mrs. Jonathan is working to ensure that the governorship candidate comes from one of the riverine areas of Rivers State which may not

be where the people are going. Mrs. Jonathan has not withdrawn her support for Chief Wike at any time …”

Let it be noted that the wife of the president is entitled to her right to support whomsoever she wishes in an election and it would be a wonder if she did not align herself to Wike’s aspirations in Rivers State, considering that the minister has been the unhidden proxy in the feud between the first family and the incumbent governor of the state, Mr. Rotimi Amaechi. Indeed, the first lady and not the president, has been touted to be the aggressor and arrowhead in that intractable fight for the soul of Rivers State. Her activities in the state she visits ever so frequently and her body language leave no one in doubt about her proprietary right in a place she calls her ancestral home.

In the last one year, she has established a vainglorious habit of shutting down Port Harcourt, the state capital, each time she visits.

We wish to admonish that no matter the lure to support and push her surrogate son to Government House, Port Harcourt, in 2015, her position as the wife of the president imposes on her, that enormous duty of utmost constraint and decorum.

Neither in her utterances nor action must she be seen to be perverting the electoral system. It is trite to note that her open declaration of support for any candidate would impinge on the election process both at the party level and among the electorate. It would therefore be perverse and

a subversion of the process for her to openly declare support for an aspirant even before the race has begun. And if we may remind, Chief Wike whom she roots for oversees a ministry in which teachers of polytechnics have been on strike for nearly 10 months with no solution in sight.

A first lady making the aspiration of a candidate a fait accompli is impunity raised to the level of thoughtlessness. It is most reprehensible if not irresponsible when we blatantly deny the people the opportunity to choose; we do damage to our democratic institutions and subvert our electoral processes with indiscretions such as this. We hope the president would call his wife to order.

‘A first lady making the aspiration of a candidate a fait accompli is impunity raised to the level of thoughtlessness. It is most reprehensible if not irresponsible when we blatantly deny the people the opportunity to choose; we do damage to our democratic institutions and subvert our electoral processes with indiscretions such as this.

We hope the president would call his wife to order’

Progress on the World Bank’s plan to end poverty

“B

Y ALMOST any measure, the world is better than it has ever been,” Bill Gates wrote in his 2014 annual letter for the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

“People are living longer, healthier lives.

Many — though by no means all — of the countries we used to call poor now have thriving economies. And the percentage of very poor people has dropped by more than half since 1990.”

Too few people recognize the progress, Mr. Gates notes, so too few understand how achievable further progress would be. And further progress is needed. More people have entered the middle class than most economists would have thought possible a generation ago, and the ranks of the poor have shrunk even as world population has grown. But more than 1 billion people still live in extreme poverty — on less than $1.25 a day.

Recognizing both the progress and the urgency, the World Bank has set a goal of virtually eliminating extreme poverty across the earth by 2030. In 1990, 36 percent of the world’s population lived in extreme poverty; by 2010 the ratio was slightly less than 18 percent. Even so, World Bank President Jim Yong Kim told us during a recent visit to The Post, the bank and other aid agencies will have to do things differently to accelerate the trend and reach the 2030 goal. One key challenge, he said, is using “precious aid dollars to prepare the ground for private-sector development.”

India, despite its economic progress in recent decades, still is home to a third of the world’s poor. Add in two more countries, China and Nigeria, and you’ve accounted for more than half. But the poorest countries are, like Nigeria, in Africa: Three-quarters or more of the populations of Congo, Liberia, Burundi, Madagascar and Zambia are extremely poor.

Strategies for different countries will differ.

Economic growth is essential and, as China has showed, the best anti-poverty tool. As Mr. Kim suggested, such growth requires privatesector participation. But in areas of high inequality, economic growth alone won’t be enough. Aid is essential — and, as Mr. Gates also showed in his letter, aid has been far more effective than public opinion tends to credit.

Over the years, evangelists of various stripes have championed favorite methods to attack poverty: educating more girls, providing microloans to entrepreneurs, building farmto-market roads. There is no single route. One strategy that Mr. Kim said is proving its worth is conditional cash assistance — giving payments to poor parents who ensure that their children go to school, for example, or get their required vaccinations.

So flexibility matters, but so does determination. The case is pragmatic as well as moral. Mr. Kim pointed to research showing that inclusive growth is good for everyone: Bring up the poorest, and include women and other traditionally marginalized sectors, and the entire economy grows faster. His target, which once would have seemed outlandish, is now quite imaginable. As Mr. Gates writes, “Poor countries are not doomed to stay poor.

- Washington Post

TRUTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief Victor Ifijeh

• Editor Gbenga Omotoso •Chairman, Editorial Board Sam Omatseye •General Editor Adekunle Ade-Adeleye •Editor, Online Lekan Otufodunrin •Managing Editor Northern Operation Yusuf Alli •Managing Editor Waheed Odusile

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THE NATION MONDAY, APRIL 14, 2014

CARTOON & LETTERS

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IR: University of Ibadan (UI) management team was recently in Kano State to pay homage to the Institution’s Chancellor, the Emir of Kano, Alhaji Ado Bayero. The team led by the University of Ibadan ViceChancellor, Prof. Isaac Folorunso Adewole was also strategizing towards building a lecture theatre in honour of the Emir to be known as “Ado Bayero Lecture Theatre of UI School of Business”. This mission, as well as other matters of interest compelled the team to spend four days in the ancient city of Kano.

From the testimonies of the commercial cab operators to the visible evidence of modernity as well as on-going projects dotting the landscape, visitors to the state begin to savor the flavor of rich dividends of democracy. For instance, all major streets are well lit and illuminated by various gigantic power generating sets installed in conspicuous place for public monitoring. The traffic lights on all the major roads as well, are spectacles to behold. Among the amazing legacies of Governor Rabiu Kwakwanso is the superimposing flyover at Kofa Nasarawa which is still under construction.

Indeed, it was astonishment all the way when we visited Kwankwasiyya – one of the three new cities the governor is building. It is a virgin land turned to modern city with captivating structures of various sizes commanding attention. The

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How Kwankwaso is changing face of Kano road network is strikingly exciting.

Amazing duplexes, built in a large variety of configurations as well as bungalows and block of flats with spectacular colour and class in a well laid out fashion characterize the new city. At the permanent site of the second state university called NorthWest University, which the governor is building, we were told that he built the first state University called Kano University of Technology, Wudil during his first term in office (1999-2014) and he is now building the second university again.

As a demonstration of his passion for education, Kwankwaso has sponsored over 2,000 students to universities across the world to study Medicine, Nursing, Piloting, Aeronautical Engineering, Pharmacy and Marine Engineering among others. He has also rejuvenated all primary and secondary schools just as he has constructed more than 1,600 classrooms and 800 offices.

But apart from federal allocation

and Internally Generated Revenue, does he get money elsewhere?

Investigation revealed that prudence ,transparency and proper application of available resources to key priorities are the secrets behind the phenomenal performance of Kano State governor.

He reportedly cancelled the infamous security vote,through which substantial fund is being siphoned thus, drastically reducing overheads. He then initiated measures that jerked up the Internally Generated Revenue of the state from N400 million to about N2 billion monthly.

There are many inherent lessons that could be gleaned from the Kwankwaso story.

Fiscal discipline is a requirement for meaningful performance.

Development will continue to elude any country that frivolously wastes resources. There is a need to curtail financial recklessness in government circles.

Again, any government or public

office holder who performs well in office will be generally applauded and appreciated. A good name is better than riches, so says an adage.

Kwankwaso’s reputation is fast soaring away positively. He is winning laurels and awards here and there.

It is pertinent for all the governors to move round and compare note.

Many governors will feed challenged if only they can visit Kano to see what Kwankwaso is doing particularly his housing project. Although, there are still challenges in Kano, Kwankwaso has certainly taken the state to a better pedestal. For instance, there is still much more work to be done in the area of environmental sanitation.

Some of the places are still dirty.

Some market places visited were so untidy. Destitute are still on the streets despite the governor’s determination to rehabilitate them and clean the streets.

Sunday Saanu, University of Ibadan

So there’s no division in PDP?

S

IR: Wonders shall never end; the news is more than incredible. Despite the hullabaloo in the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from August to December, 2013, someone is saying there is no division in PDP. Is it the walkout staged by some warring governors/formation of New PDP or the season of letters

created by a former President or the mass defection of some PDP members to APC? From acts of impunity to suspension, no one can count the number of court cases which involved PDP during this period.

Did all these not portray division?

The issue is obvious, it is visible to the blind and audible to the deaf.

Only the dead will claim there is

no division in PDP last year because as we were reading it in newspapers, we watched on TV and listen to it on radio.

So, if with all the series of events that follows the party’s National Conference at Abuja, a judge now gives a verdict that “there is no division in PDP”, then we can proclaim loud and clear that God help Nigeria! May be, those who

believe that Nigeria’s judiciary is corrupt is right after all.

The truth of the matter is that, PDP is just resuscitating itself after it witnessed a season of war. So, the court judgement that declared the defection of some legislators to the APC is very funny. I can’t even stop laughing about it.

Jamiu Idowu Esho, Eruwa, Oyo State.

Plea on LAUTECH Teaching Hospital strike

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HE diverse and multiple sufferings and hardships that many citizens of our beloved country, Nigeria are experiencing nowadays are better imagined than described. The unemployment palaver, non-payment of senior citizens or retirees allowances and stipends, inadequate social amenities, psychological and physical trauma from activities of armed robbers, kidnappers and terrorists are issues that make life almost unbearable for the masses.

However, the indefinite strike embarked upon by health workers at Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH) Teaching Hospital, Ogbomoso, Oyo State, which has entered its third week, and its consequences necessitates a clarion call on the sensitive government of Oyo State to find immediate solution.

Among the grievances of the workers is the non- payment of the January-March salaries. The workers are also protesting the payment of their salaries and allowances to Osogbo, Osun State, more so, when Ogbomoso Teaching Hospital is an autonomous institution that should not be tied to the apron strings of its Osogbo counterpart. It is a truism that when two elephants fight, it is the grass that inevitably and unjustly bears the suffering. We therefore implore the amiable and genial Oyo State governor; Senator Abiola Ajimobi to do everything possible to end the strike immediately as anything that can be done to alleviate and ameliorate the suffering of Nigeria citizens is not only necessary, but imperative at such a critical time as this. A stitch in time goes the adage, saves nine.

•Pastor Adegbite A Sunday Ogbomoso.

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THE NATION MONDAY, APRIL 14, 2014

COMMENTS

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OT exactly an escapologist, Ebikeme Clark’s extrication from captivity nevertheless had a dramatic colour. Seized on April 2 in Kiagbodo community in Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State, the son of the vocal Ijaw leader and unapologetic partisan of President Goodluck Jonathan, Chief Edwin Clark, unexpectedly reconnected with society five days after, saying, “My abductors apologised for keeping me. They gave me N5, 000 for transportation when I was released.”

It was a rather disappointing anti-climax to an episode that had promised pyrotechnics. Earlier, reacting to the abduction and the N50 million ransom demand of the kidnappers, counsel to the elder Clark, Mr. Dickson Bekederemo was quoted as saying, “ If anything happens to him, they know the Ijaw custom very well: it is life for life. We’ll go after them, it’s declaration of war. They and their families will know no peace.” Whether this was bare braggadocio would perhaps never be established as Ebikeme’s release silenced the drumbeats of war and despoliation. It is also speculative whether this picture of doom persuaded the abductors to rethink.

However, an intriguing development has continued to fuel supplementary speculation, particularly about the actual circumstances or behind-the scenes activities that secured freedom for the captive. In a thought-provoking counter-statement to the claims of the family, the police and the state administration to the effect that no one paid a kobo to soothe the kidnappers, the Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta (MEND) alleged that this was a well-dressed lie. The group said it “has confirmed that the kidnap was actually a clever orchestrated fraud masterminded by Ebikeme who stage-managed his own abduction.” Reinforcing the damaging allegation, it added, “A ransom of N500 million was paid by the Delta

‘In the end, beyond the appearances and illusions that seem to be the defining qualities of this specific kidnap case, the political situation and public condition are at the heart of the matter. Potential kidnappers are perhaps born everyday across the country, and it is in the interest of the political leaders in particular and their friends to understand that they and their loved ones are endangered by their inexcusable omissions’

I

predicted in 2005 that the then National Political Reform Conference (NPRC) would end up in the dustbin of history because the delegates deliberately failed to tackle Nigeria’s fundamental problem, namely, an appropriate geo-ethno-polity for the country. Till date, there is nothing from that conference that forms a strategic part of the Nigerian political economy despite the huge sums of public money and man hours expended on it. The ongoing National Conference will suffer a similar fate if its delegates play the ostrich and ignore this nagging problem. In fact this conference should be concerned with only one question: What kind of geo-ethno-political structure will facilitate Nigeria’s development? This conference will not turn Nigeria around for the better without the restructuring of the country from the current 36 states to at the least a six geopolitical zone structure.

The current 36-state structure is extremely expensive. Cut Nigeria’s clothes according to her cloth. The current 36-state structure has created more avenues of corruption. Contract the states and reduce avenues of corruption. The current 36state structure makes politicians out of people who do not have the credentials and personal qualities to deal with the daunting problem of Nigeria’s development. Come to think of it, no one in mainstream politics today, federal or state, comes close to the commitment, dedication, vision and developmental acumen and courage of Nnamdi Azikiwe, Tafawa Balewa, Obafemi Awolowo, M. I. Okpara, Ahmadu Bello, Dennis Osadebey, J.S Tarka, I. U. Akpabio, Anthony Enahoro, to mention a few. The quality and achievements of ministers, parliamentarians, and bureaucrats of the pre-civil era were far superior to what we have today. They had their own weaknesses, but nothing close to the degree of political, economic and developmental incompetence and societal disorganization that Nigeria has witnessed since their exit.

They were saints and outstanding agents of development compared to what we have seen of Nigerian politicians and bureaucrats since the last 30 years. Contract the current 36state structure into six zones. This will widen the geographic space from which politicians are drawn. This will help to reduce tout politics.

Some delegates in this conference have indicated their interest in new states. Creating new states will increase Nigeria’s economic and social problems by enlarging the number of waste pipes by way of new governors, legislators, councilors, and bureaucrats most of who have no sense of urgency to change things in a country where more than 70% of the people either suffer from abject poverty or are managing to scrape-by in a land of plenty. Look at Nigeria’s development indicators over the years. One can extrapolate that the more the number of states the more dismal the national economic indicators.

Yes, Nigeria was recently named one of the 26 largest economies in the world because it posted an impressive GDP.

Ijaw reality show State government from its security vote and was shared among all those involved in this scam.”

It is instructive that MEND offered a motive for the claimed confidence trick, suggesting that it might just know what it is talking about. According to the alternative narrative, “It is rather unfortunate that in a desperate bid for relevance and extra funds to maintain a private jet, certain unscrupulous persons, including the police, will conspire to deceive Nigerians with a phantom abduction, release of the so-called hostage, influence over kidnappers and arrest of suspects and denying the payment of ransom, which has already been shared.”

Given the gravity of these accusations and the elasticity of belief required to accommodate them, in addition to the implications for the group’s veracity, disclosure of identities and other damning details would have been useful for clarification purposes. Not surprisingly, therefore, the haziness was exploited for defence. Speaking for the state administration, Secretary to the State Government (SSG) Ovouzourie Macaulay rubbished the allegation of payment of N500 million as ransom, and described it as “very foolish.” According to him, “For anyone who knows how government runs and the logistics of that volume of fund movement, it is impossible. There were only two working days during the period.” This was a clearly simplistic response because the accusation referred to “security vote”, which suggests funds outside the scope of official accountability and bureaucratic process. What this means is that if the government is indeed innocent, it simply cannot be because of the reason advanced by its spokesperson.

Perhaps the most potent counter-point to the payment claim is a straightforward question: Why would the state government allegedly pay N500 million to kidnappers who had demanded N50 million? However, beyond this telling poser, it is significant to ask how MEND arrived at

the figure, and to wonder whether it has qualms about selling and spreading falsehood.

Another point to ponder is the fact that Chief Clark introduced an interesting dimension as he blamed his son’s seizure on MEND leader Henry Okah and his brother, Charles. It is certainly not sufficient to finger Henry who is serving a jail term in South Africa for the October 2010 bombing at Eagle Square in Abuja, and Charles who is facing trial in Nigeria on related charges; and linking them with the kidnap would need more than mere declaration. Is it possible that the allegation against the brothers is the elder Clark’s method of expressing his bitterness at MEND’s unflattering accusations, especially the idea that he arranged the abduction with his son?

The picture painted by Ebikeme, who reportedly drew the attention of journalists to his head injuries, is striking for its revelatory aspects. By his account, “ They were ordered by their leader, Tompolo, to free me.” He explained that a call from Tompolo’s deputy, Boro Opudu, led to his release, which must be a testimony to the powerful influence of the duo. It is apt to wonder whether the kidnappers succumbed to the sheer force of intimidation.

Or is it that Tompolo, a well-known and supposedly reformed ex-militia leader who has controversially made a fortune from government security contracts, offered to compensate the abductors?

It is noteworthy that the police have arrested six people in connection with the kidnap and Commissioner of Police Ikechukwu Aduba said four other members of the gang were at large. According to him, “The suspects have all made confessional statements giving details of their individual and collective roles in the kidnapping.” He described the gang members as “extremely dangerous, ruthless schemers and bloodthirsty.” Against this background, if the suspects are actually culpable, getting them to let their victim go, apparently so easily and effortlessly, must rank as a miracle of sorts.

It is enlightening to reflect on Ebikeme’s recollection of his experience in the den of lions. He said: “When they were talking, some talked about being excluded from the amnesty programme. Again, some believe that the political class has failed them and they have to get money by force from the politicians. They are actually against politicians; they hate politicians.” He added that they also complained about the fact that the political leaders “always talk in millions”, which is unattainable in their own context.

In the end, beyond the appearances and illusions that seem to be the defining qualities of this specific kidnap case, the political situation and public condition are at the heart of the matter. Potential kidnappers are perhaps born everyday across the country, and it is in the interest of the political leaders in particular and their friends to understand that they and their loved ones are endangered by their inexcusable omissions.

Memo to National Conference

By Chikwendu Christian Ukaegbu It overtook South Africa as the largest economy on the continent, yet thousands of Nigerians regularly stream to South Africa, or die at the borders of lesser economies in search of basic sources of sustenance. GDP does not put food on the table. Gainfully employed people do. GDP does not, in and of itself, create and/or enlarge employment opportunities. Competent, imaginative and courageous governments pave the way through pro-growth policies that harness the private sector to diversify economic activity.

Some other delegates have suggested a six-year single term for the presidency rotated among six geopolitical zones. The concentrated decentralization resultant in a sixzone geo-political structure is a good start in the blueprint for geo-political restructuring. But you should remember that the rotation of the presidency and the number of years of incumbency are not as important as the amount of power embedded in the office. Dealing with the latter, that is, decreasing the power of the presidency is therefore part of the real restructuring endeavor.

Remember also that the idea of a National Conference has a history. Restructuring the geo-ethno-polity was the primary reason for agitation for a national conference by its initial proponents. This conference should not forget that history. The 2005 conference relegated that primary reason to the margins of its deliberations.

Restructuring was hardly discussed and those who talked about it were like voices in the wilderness. Hence the outcomes of that conference also ended up in the wilderness of history.

Put more directly, a six-zone regional structure as federating units will reduce cost of government and save a lot of public money, reduce avenues of corruption, provide a better chance of selecting better people into government, create a sense of regional ownership, and enhance the developmental consciousness that comes with that sense of ownership and economies of scale.

Yes, the delegates of the 2014 National Conference have proposed or created committees on social welfare, the environment, national security, science and technology, labour and sports, etc. Be informed that these are mere administrative issues. Failures in these areas occurred because the executive and legislative branches of government and their ancillary agencies failed in their duties over the years.

What haven’t we heard, or what don’t we know, about the

Nigerian economy, national security, energy, elections, science and technology, agriculture, transportation and the like that necessitate a national conference on them? I bet that volumes of reports on some of these issues have been gathering dust on the shelves of libraries of higher educational institutions, government agencies, private consultancies, and domestic and international nongovernmental organizations, These issues which can easily be hashed out by a task force of the National Assembly occupied primacy in the 2005 conference and rendered that conference redundant and useless.

So think of restructuring the geo-ethno-polity, that is, the intersection of geography, ethnic identification and political expression, as a more strategic issue. Think of restructuring as the path to your legacy in Nigeria’s history. Consequently, only two committees in the 2014 National Conference are worth spending the people’s money on. They are, The Political Restructuring and Forms of Government Committee, and the Devolution of Power Committee. The other committees are a waste of the people’s money.

The devolution of power in a six-zone regional structure should be such that regions will intrinsically own and shoulder the ultimate responsibility for their development.

That is what strong regions do all over the world. The present national psyche which sees the federal government as the ultimate instrument of national development is counterproductive and must come to an end. Geo-political restructuring holds the key.

Ukaegbu, Professor of Sociology & Development Studies, currently serves as Distinguished Senior Lecturer at Northwestern University, Evanston, IL USA

Yes, Nigeria was recently named one of the 26 largest economies in the world because it posted an impressive GDP. It overtook South Africa as the largest economy on the continent, yet thousands of Nigerians regularly stream to South Africa, or die at the borders of lesser economies in search of basic sources of sustenance.

THE NATION MONDAY, APRIL 14, 2014

22

COMMENTS

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HE death of a 17-year old secondary school boy, Chidiebere Edeh in the hands of officials of the Enugu State Waste Management Agency ESWMA has once again brought to the fore the recurring brutal conduct of some enforcement agencies in this country. Reports had it that the boy who was sitting for the ongoing Senior School Certificate Examination, had gone out early in the morning to one of the designated dump sites to discard some refuse.

Apparently not satisfied with the manner Chidiebere disposed the refuse at the dump site, the ESWMA officials accosted and began to beat him despite his plea that he tied the refuse in a black nylon bag as recommended by the agency.

The beating was said to have got out of hands when the boy refused to be forced into their bus. Not even the intervention of his mother who rushed to the scene later and other sympathizers could stop the officials from inflicting mortal harm on the poor boy. He was later abandoned after being severely beaten by the heartless agency officials and an accompanying policeman. Sadly, the poor lad died few hours after the gruesome ordeal in the hands of adults who should ordinarily have protected him from such acts of unprovoked brutality.

A doctor in the hospital where Chidiebere was eventually rushed by his mother described the gory state of the boy thus “he had a damaged brain and suffered deep wound at his back and rear of his head. His eyes propped out, the right leg was shifted and swollen”. Evident from this chilling account by the doctor is that the officials were really out to murder the poor boy for

‘Citizen Chidiebere must not be allowed to die in vain. The Enugu state government on whose behalf the culprits worked must be made to pay adequate compensation to the family of the young lad who has been sent to his early grave for no just cause’

I

Emeka OMEIHE 08112662675 email: EmekaOmeihe@yahoo.com

Heartless Enugu officials no just cause. And they must be demented for their unmitigated brutality on the hapless boy whose offence was that he disposed refused in an unapproved manner.

The matter is more irritating as the dump site where he disposed the refuse is approved for that purpose. If there was any slight infraction in the prescriptions of the agency, the minimum expectation was for such officials to educate him on the proper way of disposing refuse subsequently. At 17 years, Chidiebere is still considered a juvenile. Ordinarily, he should not be subjected to the full weight of the law for such a minor offence which at any rate is not capital punishment. But that was not to happen. Rather, what we got was the most brutal act of bestiality and very crude display of the law of the jungle. What a big shame!

Since the incident, nothing has been heard from the Enugu State government. Neither have there been any visible measures taken to identify the culprits. If care is not taken, it may turn out another case of the proverbial Unknown Soldier.

It is still very confounding why the heartless officials kept beating the young lad to the point of death if the intention was not to eliminate him. And if one may wish to ask, for what offence? It is incumbent on the Enugu State government and the police to as a matter of urgency identify the beasts behind the gruesome murder of citizen Chidiebere. They must be made to face the full wrath of the law.

There is no excuse why the erring officials cannot be identified as those who supervised that area on the day in question

N the words of Harvey Firestone, foremost American Business man, “Capital isn’t so important in business.

Experience isn’t so important. You can get both. What is important is ideas. If you have ideas, you have the main asset you need, and there isn’t any limit to what you can do with your business and your life.”

The Ehingbeti Summit is one of the several innovative ideas that the Lagos State government has initiated to enhance sustainable growth and development in the state. The Summit is a platform through which the state engages the organised private sector to serve as vehicle for the formulation of innovative ideas and policies that will enhance the state’s socioeconomic development. It is also designed to attract local and foreign investors just as it showcases the various investment opportunities that abound in the state.

Since the first edition of the summit in 2000, it has developed into a constructive intellectual forum for the stimulation of economic growth in Lagos State, and indeed Nigeria. As a result of the need for realistic assessment of implementable goals against set benchmarks, the summit, which started as an annual event when the first edition was held, was to later become a biennial event in 2008. The first three editions of Ehingbeti were deliberately, for obvious reasons, planned to be diagnostic in nature. This was to ensure that the challenges were properly identified and articulated so that short, medium and long term solutions could be found for them. Hence, experts and consultants in various fields were brought on board to share experiences together. However, by the fourth summit in 2008, which was the first edition to be held under the present administration, a blueprint had been developed for implementation. The state government has since implemented over 100 resolutions reached at past editions of the summit.

A review of the implementation of the resolutions and recommendation of the 2012 Summit with the theme, ‘’From BRICS to BRINCS: Lagos Holds the Key” by the Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) responsible for the areas of concentration revealed that a lot of success has been recorded with achievable targets in full focus. The core areas of the summit in 2012 were Power, Agriculture, Transportation and Housing, which gave rise to the acronym PATH. Massive investments and initiatives have since been undertaken by the state government in those sectors in conjunction with the private sector and other development partners. This is a clear evidence of the resolve on the part of government to ensure that the summit is not just another talkshop.

It is not surprising; therefore, that Lagos, in the last 13 years, has become a model for governance in the country. Novel attainments such as the Bus Rapid Transport System (BRT), Independent Power Plants (IPP), the on-going Lagos Light Rail System and the pattern of road designs with pedestrian walk ways are products of key decisions reached at past Ehingbeti summits. Similarly, the transformation of the Lagos Island

are very well known to the authorities of the host local government council.

The incident also brings to question the character and mental suitability of those charged with the enforcement of laws especially at the local government levels.

Often, those you find as enforcers of environmental, tax and other sundry laws at the local government levels are people who could easily pass for thugs or men of little virtue. They are easily given away by their quick temperament and easy resort to violence at the slightest provocation.

Matters are not helped by the tendency of political office holders to compensate political thugs and sundry characters through appointments into these agencies.

People who have scant regard for human life are the least qualified to handle the enforcement of such laws. Or how else do we rationalize the act of bestiality that played out in the instant case. It could only emanate from the mentally deranged and demented.

Enugu state is not alone in this. In most of our urban centers, records of traffic officers, environmental and other sundry law enforcers speak of gross abuses and constant violation of the rights of the people. Not long ago in Lagos, a 54-year old commercial driver, Isaac Popoola was killed by officials of the state traffic management agency for a spurious traffic offence. The two officials one of who was discovered not authorized to be on duty had overtaken the commercial vehicle and demanded that the driver should disembark.

In the ensuing argument, the officials were said to have hit the driver with the iron part of the seat belt and severally hit his head against the iron frame of the vehicle before he slumped and fainted. He died from that encounter. The two officials were quickly identified by the agency, disclaimed for acting contrary to their operational guidelines and handed over to the police for prosecution. The state government has since taken a number of steps to tame the excesses of its traffic management official. And the result has been well received.

The Enugu state government should learn from the above c ase, identify the culprits, disown and hand them over to the police for urgent prosecution. Obviously, those who murdered citizen Chidiebere acted on their own and contrary to the regulations guiding their operations and must by made to pay dearly for it. We can no longer continue to give the impression that human life can easily be discarded at the whims and caprices of errant and highly temperamental officials in the name enforcing traffic and environmental laws.

It is also very clear from the incident that character checks and the mental suitability of those prospecting for such jobs must come into serious scrutiny before they are recruited. That way, we will be reducing to the barest minimum the quick resort to the law of the jungle in sorting out issues that arise in the daily enforcement of their duties.

Admittedly, there is still much to be desired in the overall conduct of our people to traffic and environmental matters. On a daily basis, we are confronted with scant regard by sundry drivers and households for traffic and environmental laws. These have tended to impose serious constraints on traffic control and waste management. But that should be no justification for the constant resort to killings and maiming of suspected offenders as our laws are replete with appropriate punishment.

Citizen Chidiebere must not be allowed to die in vain. The Enugu state government on whose behalf the culprits worked must be made to pay adequate compensation to the family of the young lad who has been sent to his early grave for no just cause. My heart goes for the family of the boy whose poor parents must have invested so much in only for their dreams to be shattered prematurely. May the gentle soul of Chidiebere, rest in the bosom of the Lord, Amen.

Lagos, Ehingbeti and accelerated power delivery

By Tayo Ogunbiyi Central Business District, CBD, Badagry and Lekki corridors, Yaba, Surulere, Alimosho to mention a few are parts of the success story of Ehingbeti over the years. Today, all over the state, the state government is living up to one of its basic responsibilities to provide critical transport infrastructure by building new roads.

In order to sustain current pace of development in the state, this year’s Ehingbeti Summit with the theme: ‘Powering The Lagos Economy: Real Opportunities, Endless Possibilities’, focused mainly on the crucial issue of constant and sustainable electricity supply in the state. The essence of the 2014 summit’s focus on power is for the private sector to draw the attention of the government to places where its activities would enable the private sector achieve its potential in terms of delivering of service, provision of opportunities and growth of the economy.

On its part, the state government has been working tirelessly in pursuit of a new power agenda for the state. Presently, the state government is working on a plan to set up a one-stop shop to fast-track the handling of all issues relating to right of way and power infrastructure development in the state.

Similarly, apart from the three functional power plants in Akute, Lagos Island and Alausa, the state government is currently working to install two other plants in strategic locations of the state.

Being an integral part of PATH (Power, Agriculture, Transportation and Housing), the state’s new developmental direction, the Lagos State government’s resolve to evolve new strategies that will enhance stable and constant electricity supply in the state is quite logical. For instance, regular and stable power supply will enable the state to unleash the possibilities of the economy beyond imagination. Small businesses within the state will, no doubt, thrive better if more creative schemes are put in place to guarantee un-hindered power supply.

Equally, multi-national firms that have closed shop in Lagos because of the epileptic nature of power could be lured back if the power situation improves. This would not only bring back lost jobs, but will certainly restore lost ones. Similarly, regular power supply will, no doubt, lead to a much safer Lagos where every inch of it is lit up at night.

From the various discussions at the 2014 Ehingbeti summit, it is quite clear that the country would not be able to accelerate its

socio-economic growth unless, concerted efforts are made to develop creative initiatives that could confront and overcome current power situation. As the most populous black country in the world, we need to do more in respect of adequate power generation and effective distribution. The top 20 countries of the world such as China, which is currently the world’s largest producer of power, South Africa and Mexico, among others, generate power in excess of their demand.

For the power need of the Lagos to be effectively met, efforts must be made to ensure proper alignment of the entire value chain of power generation, transmission and distribution.

Equally, the development of emergency power system, increased partnership with Independent Power Plant (IPP) producers, the creation of necessary institutional frameworks and facilitation of an enabling environment would go a long way to accelerate power delivery to the state.

Undoubtedly, if effectively implemented, the various recommendations of 2014 Ehingbeti summit would help accelerate the socio-economic development and growth of the state, since effective power delivery is central to the realization of the state government’s Ten Point Agenda. Given the centrality of Lagos to the overall economic prosperity of Nigeria, it is essential that the state government continue to support new initiatives, ideas and visions that could improve power delivery in the state and, indeed, the country at large Ogunbiyi is of Features Unit, Ministry of Information and Strategy, Lagos.

‘It is not surprising, therefore, that Lagos, in the last 13 years, has become a model for governance in the country. Novel attainments such as the Bus Rapid Transport System (BRT), Independent Power Plants (IPP), the on-going Lagos Light Rail System and the pattern of road designs with pedestrian walk ways are products of key decisions reached at past Ehingbeti summits’

WEEK 6 RESULTS Kada Stars 50- 60 Gombe Bulls Plateau Peaks 75- 82 Kano Pillars Mark Mentors 78-40 Immigration Niger Potters 58-64 Bauchi Nets Islanders 75-55 Kwara Falcons Oluyole Warriors 93-82 Union Bank Dodan Warriors 53-62 Customs Royal Hoopers 71-57 Police Batons

BUSINESS

25

THE NATION MONDAY, APRIL 14, 2014

THE NATION

E-mail:- bussiness@thenationonlineng.net

ISSUES

We want a SONCAP programme that would serve its purpose; a programme that would be dynamic, where all the identified loopholes would be effectively plugged thereby making it difficult for the plaque of substandard products to continue to dominate the Nigerian business space.

-Dr Joseph Odumodu, DG, SON

THE CEO

Revealing all in sustainability reporting - P. 34

‘Nigeria is investment unfriendly’ - P. 27

News Briefing

Banks’ lending to economy rises to N15tr

CRR hike worsens insurance’ woes

THE policy of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) that has led to a hike in the Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR) will be counter-productive to the insurance industry as products sale will become Herculean, AIICO Insurance has lamented.

–Page 26

By Collins Nweze

B

Bad monetary policy weakens naira

THE Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) has blamed bad monetary policy policy for the continued decline in the value the naira, the naira, against major currencies, especially the United State’s dollar.

–Page 26

CBN advises banks, discount houses on account rendition THE Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has advised banks and discount houses on how to render their accounts.

–Page 29

DATA STREAM COMMODITY PRICES Oil

-$117.4/barrel

Cocoa

-$2,686.35/metric ton

Coffee

- ¢132.70/pound

Cotton

- ¢95.17pound

Gold

-$1,396.9/troy

Sugar

-$163/lb MARKET

CAPITALISATIONS NSE

-N11.4 trillion

JSE

-Z5.112trillion

NYSE

-$10.84 trillion

LSE

-£61.67 trillion RATES

Inflation

-8%

Treasury Bills -10.58%(91d) Maximum lending -30% Prime lending

-15.87%

Savings rate

-1%

91-day NTB

-15%

Time Deposit

-5.49%

MPR

-12%

Foreign Reserve

$45b

FOREX CFA

-0.2958

EUR

-206.9

£

-242.1

$

-156

¥

-1.9179

SDR

-238

RIYAL

-40.472

•From left: Chief Sales Officer, Weco Systems International, Mr. Ambrose Okougbo; Channel System Engineer, Cisco Systems, Ms Gbemi Munis; Chief Executive Officer, Weco Systems International, Mr. Obinna Ekwonwa and Partner Marketing Manager, Cisco System, Mrs. Morenike Alder, during the Bring Your own Device (BYOD) workshop at Victoria Crown Plaza, PHOTO: LUCAS AJANAKU Victoria Island, Lagos over the weekend.

Diaspora remittances to hit $436b

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BOUT $436billion is expected to be remit ted by international migrant workers to their home countries this year, the World Bank has said, adding that the remittances represent a 7.8 per cent increase over last year’s figures.

In its latest issue of Migration and Development Brief released at the bank’s headquarters in Washington DC, at the weekend, it said this year’s remittance flows to developing countries are equivalent of 7.8 per cent increase over the $404billion remitted last year.

It added that over the next two years, these remittamces are expected to jump to $516billion.

The bank noted that Nigeria remained the largest recipient of diaspora receipts in sub-Sahara Africa, with migrants remitting

•Nigeria received $21b, says World Bank From Simeon Ebulu, Group Business Editor, (Washington DC)

about $21billion last year to the country. The report added that the country is ramping up a diaspora bond issue to mobilise savings and boost financing for development.

According to the global lender, remittances to subSahara Africa grew by 3.5 per cent last year to reach $32billion, stating that flows are forecast to rise to $41billion in 2016.

The International Development and Reconstruction Bank (IDRB) said “global remittances, including those to high-income countries, are estimated at $581billion this

year, from $542billion in 2013, rising to $681billion in 2016.”

The bank noted that remittances have assumed a key source of external resource flows to developing countries, far above the receipts from official development assistance. It identified India, China and the Phillipines as countries among the greatest beneficiaries.

It said for many developing countries, remittances are an important source of foreign exchange, surpassing earnings from major exports, and in a sense standing as foreign reserves covering a substantial portion of imports.

Senior Vice President and Chief Economist of the

World Bank, Kaushik Basu, said: “Remittances have become a major component of the balance of payments of nations. India led the chart of remittance flows, receiving $70billion last year, followed by China with $60billion and the Phillipines with $25billion. There’s no doubt that these flows act as an antidote to poverty and promote prosperity.”

The bank noted that while the medium-term outlook for remittances is strong, it feared that associated risks arising mainly from conflicts, or migrants return to their home countries as a result of deportation, cannot be overlooked.

According to the report, last year witnessed a steep rise in deportation, with more than 370,000 migrants sent back to their home countries from Saudi Arabia, another 368,000 from the US and over 484,560 from Europe.

Foreign investors hasten sale of Nigerian equities

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HAT did the for eign investors see that made them to double up on the sale of their Nigerian portfolios?

This is the worrying question for the authorities at the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) as latest official data on foreign portfolio investments indicated significant disproportionate increase in divestments and investments in stock market.

The latest foreign portfolio investment (FPI) report by the NSE showed more than 100 per cent increase in sale transactions while there was also significant decline in buy transactions, illustrating the increasing negative foreign portfolio posi-

By Taofik Salako

tion in recent period.

While the NSE had been silent on previous reports of foreign divestments, the current report drew attention to the unusual increase showed by the latest data.

According to the report, there is need to note “the significant increase in foreign portfolio investment outflows in February compared to January and the same period last year. The outflows in February are about 107 per cent higher compared to January 2014 and about 183 per cent compared to February 2013”.

The report used two key indicators-inflow and out-

flow, to gauge foreign investors’ mood and participation in the stock market as a barometer for the economy.

Foreign portfolio investment outflow includes sales transactions or liquidation of equity portfolio investments through the stock market while inflow includes purchase transactions on the NSE. The latest report obtained at the weekend indicated for almost a kobo put in the Nigerian market in the period ended February 2014; more than three kobos were taken out. This underlined a worse divestment scenario compared with the previous month in 2014 and comparable period of 2013.

The report proved that while foreign transactions have dominated the stock market in the recent period, these have mostly been on the divestment side rather than new investment. The report also provided the first empirical evidence of foreign investors’ reaction to the suspension of Mallam Sanusi Lamido Sanusi as the governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), by President Goodluck Jonathan in February 2014.

While total transactions at the NSE increased from N181.97 billion in January 2014 to N198.70 billion in • Continued on page 26

ANKS’ lending to the do mestic economy rose by 0.5 per cent to N15.1 trillion at the end of January, an Economic Report by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has shown.

According to the report released at the weekend, banks’ lending to the Federal Government, on month-on-month basis, equally rose by 13.9 per cent to negative N1.2 trillion, compared with the growth of 37.7 per cent at the end of the preceding month, but was in contrast to the two per cent decline at the end of the corresponding month of 2013. The development relative to the preceding month, reflected largely, the increase in banking system’s holdings of government securities.

The report said the Federal Government estimated retained revenue in January 2014 was N262.88 billion, while total estimated expenditure was N368.35 billion. Therefore, the fiscal operations resulted in an estimated deficit of N105.47 billion, compared with the estimated monthly budget deficit of N73.92 billion.

It said crude oil production, including condensates and natural gas liquids in January was estimated at 1.92 million barrels per day (mbd) or 59.5 million barrels for the month.

Crude oil export was estimated at 1.47 million barrels per day (mbd) or 45.6 million barrels during the month. The average price of Nigeria’s reference crude, the Bonny Light (370 API), was estimated at $110.19 per barrel, indicating a decline of 2.6 per cent below the level in the preceding month.

The end-period headline inflation rate (year-on-year), in January 2014, was eight per cent, same as in the preceding month. Inflation rate on a 12month moving average basis fell by 0.1 percentage point to 8.4 per cent from the level in the preceding month.

Foreign exchange inflow and outflow through the CBN in January 2014 were $2.54 billion and $4.65 billion, respectively, and resulted in a net outflow of $2.11 billion. Foreign exchange sales by the CBN to the authorised dealers amounted to $4.04 billion, showing an increase of 42.9 per cent above the level in the preceding month.

Relative to the level in the preceding month, the average naira exchange rate vis-à-vis the US dollar depreciated in all the segments (WDAS, interbank and bureau-dechange segments) of the foreign exchange market. Non-oil export receipts rose significantly by 30.1 per cent above the level in the preceding month. The development was attributed, largely, to the increase in export earnings from the agricultural sector and manufactured products.

26

THE NATION MONDAY, APRIL 14, 2014

BUSINESS NEWS

Flight Schedule MONDAY - FRIDAY LAGOS – ABUJA Departure Arrival 1. Aero 06.50 08.10 2. Associated 07.00 09.30 3. Air Nigeria 07.00 08.20 4. IRS 07.00 08.20 5. Dana 07.02 08.22 6. Arik 07.15 08.15 7. Chanchangi 07.15 8. Air Nigeria 08.15 09.35 9. Dana 08.10 09.20 10. Aero 08.45 10.05 11. Arik 09.15 10.15 12. Chanchangi 10.00 11.00 13. IRS 11.15 12.35 14. Dana 12.06 12.26 15. Aero 12.20 13.30 16. Air Nigeria 13.25 14.45 17. Chanchangi 13.30 14.30 18. Arik 13.45 14.45 19. IRS 14.00 15.20 20. Aero 14.10 15.30 21. Air Nigeria 14.50 16.10 22. Dana 15.30 16.50 23. Chanchangi 15.30 16.30 24. Arik 15.50 16.50 25. Aero 16.00 17.20 26. IRS 16.30 17.50 27. Arik 16.50 17.50 28. Dana 17.10 18.30 29. Chanchangi 17.30 18.30 30. Air Nigeria 17.35 18.55 31. Air Nigeria (T/TH) 18.30 19.50 32. Arik 18.45 19.45 33. Aero 19.20 20.40 1.

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LAGOS – CALABAR 07.30 11.20 12.50 16.00 LAGOS – JOS 10.55 11.15

LAGOS – KADUNA Aero 08.00 Chanchangi 10.00 Arik 10.00 Arik 15.10

Others are the increase of the CRR on private sector deposit from 12 per cent to 15 per cent while the liquidity ratio was retained at 30 per cent.

Head, Strategy, Brand and Corporate Communication, AIICO Insurance Plc, Mr. Olurotimi Aleshinloye, said the regime of punitive interest rate in the country is a great disincentive for investors to access loanable funds to grow their businesses.

According to him, if the interest rate is low, people will be able to access funds easily and this will bring wealth creation which will

then be deployed into asset acquisition, business development, opening of new businesses and creation of new jobs.

He said interest rate is important to insurance business because it is the cost of fund to an average individual and business.

He stressed that if Nigerians are not wealthy and their standard of living is stagnant, it will be difficult for insurers to justify insurance.

The increase in interest rate has not really made people to buy asset, open new offices and employ people as much as they should, he said.

Aleshinloye said there was,

09.10 11.00 11.10 16.20

08.40 08.40 14.55 15.10 17.40

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LAGOS – KANO Air Nigeria 07.10 IRS 08.00 Dana 08.10 Arik 12.20 IRS 14.00 IRS 18.15

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LAGOS – OWERRI 07.20 14.00 16.30

08.30 15.10 17.40

LAGOS – UYO 10.35

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LAGOS – MAIDUGURI 1. IRS 11.15 13.15 2. Arik 15.50 18.00 08.00 18.00

LAGOS – ABUJA SAT/SUN Arik 7.15; 10.20; 2.20; 5.20pm – 7.30; 9.15; 10.20; 2.20; 4.50; 6.45 Aero 07.30; 09.35; 13.10; 14.50; 20.20 – 07.30; 09.35; 13.10; 14.50; 20.20 Air Nigeria 08.15; 14.30; 17.15; 18.30 – 08.15; 13.30; 14.30; 17.15; 18.30

however, light at the dark end of the tunnel as there are other opportunities insurers could derive as a result of the increase in the CRR. He said: “Insurers should not be distracted by the increases in CRR. It makes inflation rate to be steady and creates an environment where we can at least plan and make projections.

“What the government has done with the money they took form commercial banks is redeployed to areas of need like micro insurance and agriculture.

“So, yes it reduces customers for insurers but government has also injected the funds into real sector area of the economy where insurers can equally tap into.”

Foreign investors hasten sale of Nigerian equities • Continued from page 25

12.15 12.45

LAGOS – OWERRI Aero 07.30 Arik 07.30 Air Nigeria 13.40 Arik 14.00 Arik 16.30

LAGOS – ILORIN 1. Overland 07.15 2. Arik (M/T/TH/F) 17.30

By Omobola Tolu-Kusimo

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HE policy of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) which has led to a hike in the Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR) is counter-productive to the insurance industry as products sale have become difficult, AIICO Insurance has lamented.

CRR is a portion of banks’ deposits kept with the CBN as reserves that enables it to control the money in circulation to strengthen the naira. It is one of the instruments used by the apex bank to monitor the volume of money in circulation in the country. The Monetary Policy Committee of the CBN has retained Monetary Policy Rate (MPR) at 12 per cent; CRR on public sector deposits at 75 per cent.

08.30 09.10 11.50 12.45 13.40 15.20 16.30 16.40

LAGOS – PORT HARCOURT (CIVIL) 1. Aero 07.15 08.35 2. Arik 07.15 08.35 3. Arik 09.00 10.20 4. Dana 09.27 10.40 5. Aero 10.50 12.30 6. Arik 11.40 13.00 7. Air Nigeria 12.00 13.10 8. IRS 13.30 15.00 9. Arik 14.00 15.20 10. Dana 15.03 16.20 11. Air Nigeria 16.00 17.10 12. Arik 16.10 17.30 13. Aero 16.15 17.30 14. Arik 17.10 18.30

1. Arik 2. Arik 3. Arik

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CRR hike worsens insurance sector’s woes

• From left: Managing Director, Chams Plc, Mr. Ademola Aladekomo; Executive Director, Business Development, Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), Haruna Jalo-Waziri; Chairman, Chams Plc, Very Rev. Ayo Richards and Director, Dr.Evans Woherem, during the presentation of the “Facts Behind the Figures” of the company’s 2013 earnings report at the NSE.

Bad monetary policy weakens naira, says LCCI

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HE Lagos Chamber of Com merce and Industry (LCCI) has blamed bad monetary policy policy for the continued decline in the value the naira, the naira, against major currencies, especially the United State’s dollar.

Its President, Alhaji Remi Bello, said the naira has come under severe pressure over the last couple of months due to wrong policies and therefore asked government to address the issues without further delay.

He said though there were some measure of stability in the official foreign exchange (Forex) market, the rate in the inter-bank market, Bureau de Change and parallel market depreciated between N165

By Okwy Iroegbu-Chikezie

and N172 per dollar, as against N160 to the dollar in January.

He said the trend was worrisome due to its implications on inflation, interest rate, and the operating costs in the economy. It also poses the risk of round-tripping in the Forex market with its attendant distortions in the economy, he warned.

Bello said while the Organised Private Sector (OPS) appreciates the commitment of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN)at stabilising the Forex market, it is lamentable that the parallel market now has strong effects on the economy more than ever.

He wondered how long the CBN would be able to sustain the rate without addressing the fundamentals of revenue leakages and good fiscal measures in the economy.

Bello said some factors that may have put undue pressure on the naira capital flow reversals arising from developments in the global economy especially the fiscal tapering in the United States, declining capacity to fund the Forex market because of declining inflows, numerous fiscal leakages and oil theft.

Others are huge Forex demand for the importation of petroleum products and the escalation of speculative demand as a result of recent volatility in the Forex market and its inherent uncertainty.

‘Africa last frontier for global technology market’

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FRICA is the last frontier for most global technology firms searching for fresh markets to invest, the Chairman, Digital Africa Limited, Dr Evans Worehem has said.

He also said Nigeria, with the largest market on the continent, is better positioned to be the greatest beneficiary.

Speaking in Lagos over the weekend, he said most of the other markets in the world have reached their points of saturation, arguing that the continent will continue to be the haven of investment.

He said: “Africa is the last frontier for most global technology brands that are seeking fresh and virgin markets. North America and Europe have almost reached a market saturation point for many ICT products and services. Growth in Asia and Latin America is quite modest. As at today, the most ex-

By Lucas Ajanaku and Alvin Afadama

citing information communication technology (ICT) business opportunities lie in Africa and the Middle East.

“Although Africa had traditionally lagged behind in certain critical economic sectors, ICT is clearly a bright spot for the continent that must be seized to move the continent ahead confidently.”

He said for ICT to fast-track economic development in healthcare, governance, software development and entrepreneurship, there is need for forums for stakeholders to come together and cross-fertilise ideas on how to achieve this.

To this end, Digital Africa in collaboration with World Electronics Forum (WEF) will host a three-day conference and exhibition in Lagos between May 20 and 22.

He lamented that other continents are more developed than Africa because of the advancement and development in the ICT sector, adding that for a very long time, Africa has remained a mere user of technologies fabricated in other parts of the world.

He said the conference and exhibition would allow stakeholders to share knowledge with participants, especially in software development which holds the key to youth unemployment.

He added that entrepreneurship and software development would make Africa to transit from being a consumer of foreign technologies but innovator and producer of technologies.

He said the theme of the conference is ’Towards Digital Singularity in Africa’, noting that the ‘WEF’ will be hosting the conference in Africa and Nigeria for the first time.

February 2014, foreign outflows accounted for the increased tempo of activities and the higher proportion of foreign participation to local participation.

Foreign portfolio outflows stood at N103.53 billion in February 2014 as against foreign inflows of N32.75 billion. These indicated that foreign investors accounted for 68.59 per cent of total transactions during the period.

This contrasted sharply with the situation in similar earnings season of February 2013 when foreign investors had more inflows at N39.34 billion as against outflows of N36.63 billion.

Total foreign outflow had stood at N50.14 billion in January 2014 as against inflow of N39.53 billion during the period, bringing total foreign transactions to N89.67 billion.

In comparable period of January 2013, foreign inflow was higher at N40.96 billion against outflow of N20.50 billion.

Year-to-date analysis showed that for every unit of investment, there have been two units of divestments so far this year. Total foreign portfolio inflows so far in 2014, according to the latest two-month report ended February 2014, stood at N72.28 billion compared with total foreign outflows of N153.67 billion.

Recent reports have continued to highlight increased foreign participation, though negative. Foreign investors accounted for 49.28 per cent of total transaction value of N181.97 billion in January 2014 as against 36.89 per cent of total transactions of N166.60 billion in January 2013 and 48.91 per cent of total transactions of N142.24 billion in December 2013.

Gas shortage may worsen power problem

I

By Akinola Ajibade

NABILITY of the thermal plants to get enough gas for opera tions and its attendant poor power supply will continue for months, unless urgent steps are taken to address the problems, a report from the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has said.

The report titled: ‘’ Executive operations summary of the power plants’’ and made available to The Nation, said gas constraints and frequent drop in water level at the hydro power stations are the two factors causing power problems in the country.

It said the recurrent shortfall in gas and water supply has affected the capacity of the plants to generate enough electricity in recent times.

The report, which gives a detailed performance of the plants, as well as their production capacity, said a prolonged power problems was in the offing unless maintenance were carried out in many of the plants.

THE NATION MONDAY, APRIL 14, 2014

27

THE CEO Many things make Nigeria unfriendly for investors, especially in pharmaceutical business. Some of these things, according to the Chief Executive Officer of Emzor Pharmaceuticals, Dr Stella Okoli, are epileptic power, decaying infrastructure and lack of incentives.

Despite these challenges, she still has faith in Nigeria.

Things, she tells Assistant Editor MUYIWA LUCAS, in this interview, will get better if the government and the people patronise made-inNigeria goods.

• Okoli

‘Nigeria is investment unfriendly’ N

IGERIA’S business environment is believed to be peculiar. How are you coping?

The world has become a tougher place and it is getting tougher daily. Emzor is a Nigerian company and Nigeria is not left out of global happenings; we have experienced these hard economic climate. But we try to do our best and we look for a window of opportunity and we try and tap in there.

Some of the people we started with have either fallen by the way side or are not as successful as we are. Several factors account for this.

What is responsible for the high mortality rate of businesses in the country?

Bank loans with high interest rate is one of the major factors. Since we don’t have long-term money in this country, it is a great challenge. But we, by the special grace of God, will continue to make our mark. I tell people that this is our country and God didn’t make a mistake to put us here; so everybody should work hard to make a mark.

Nigeria is the investment destination of the world, so why can’t we, the owners of the country, excel and be at the top of the economy? Why should only expatriates come in and take away the best of our country?

Would you say investing in the country is worth the while given the policy inconsistencies and an unfriendly business environment?

I think it is a hard question to answer. We invested nearly 30 years ago when the naira was stronger in value than the United States dollars; but now the reverse is the case. So if you look at it from that perspective, you may probably say we lost some values, but that is also very difficult to measure. We don’t regret our investment here, we just find a way to be better; every mistake made in business is an opportunity to learn and to

move forward. My definition of success is “falling down seven times and getting up eight times.” It is worth investing in Nigeria; we may not get it right all the time but I can tell you that our country is a land of milk and honey; we may not get everything right 100 per cent, but we are on the road to that.

If you read Mr. President’s Transformation Agenda, and if it is well implemented and actualised, then this country will be a force to be reckoned with globally. Some of the challenges we have is the problem of implementation; and that is where leadership comes in-you have to constantly measure,

‘The Nigerian environment, as it is, is not investment friendly because if you don’t have power, infrastructure, incentives, then there is a problem.

Investment will only flow to a place where you have these facilities. In Nigeria there is a lot of attempts and things being done to make sure that the situation changes’

monitor, strategise, re-strategise and fine tune and put the enabling environment in place for business to flourish.

The state of the health sector is appalling.

What do you think is needed to revive the sector?

The situation is disheartening because we had the best medical school before; very brilliant students who go abroad to do specialist courses. But what has happened is that there has been a sort of decay in the country.

The education system is not working well and that has affected the health sector because if you are not churning out knowledgeable medical students, how on earth are they going to be good doctors and run the health system properly? It is this same thing that has affected all the para medics-nurses, pharmacists, physiotherapists and the others. The other problem is that of brain drain as all the brilliant people trained in Nigeria have left and gone abroad where they are making their marks, especially in science related fields. Most of these people love this country and would like to come back. They should be attracted to return. People should be trained and retrained to improve their knowledge base.

In developing the sector, will Emzor Phar•Continued on page 28

THE NATION MONDAY, APRIL 14, 2014

28

THE CEO

‘Nigeria is investment unfriendly’ •Continued from page 27

maceutical be involved in setting up training centres for pharmaceutical technicians?

Yes, we are already doing that, because we have some subsidiaries. Once you are in a medical institution or health care sector, there are a lot of opportunities. For instance, we have a subsidiary called Emzor Hesco, which is to provide hospital equipment and sundries. In University of Ibadan, we have set up a shop in the hospital where doctors can rent these critical equipment for use; it is done in partnership with ASCOLAB of Germany. Then we are also paying a lot of attention to training because that is what has taken us this far. The largest room in the world is improvement and our people are excited about this.

Counterfeiting is a major problem in the country. How have you been able to prevent Emzor paracetamol from being counterfeited?

When we started, we didn’t know much about manufacturing, but we got a lot of tips from people all over the world who were into manufacturing before us. We have tamper -proof packaging. We also ensure that our products are popular and affordable and are also everywhere. They start faking a product that is popular but not available and affordable. What we do is that we have devices like ROPP caps for our liquids and for the tablets we try to use tamper by the blisters. We ensure we have the right seal to make sure it is tamper proof and make sure we use the right products and ensure our quality is at the top. We do not cut corners at all because it is dangerous to do so. We also work with all our agencies, such as NAFDAC (National Agency for Foods Drugs Administration and Control) to ensure that we work together to minimise fake drugs or abolish it.

There is Made-in-Nigeria policy which the government has failed to implement. How much impact does this have on local investors?

It is unfortunate that we don’t seem to be patriotic enough in Nigeria. Everywhere you go, it is the citizens that build their country; so we would only be deceiving ourselves to think that foreigners will build our country for us. It is sad that government does not patronise Made-in-Nigeria goods. In the pharmaceutical industry, the national drug policy is that 70 per cent of the drugs used in the hospitals should come from local manufacturers; but most of the new entrants don’t even know that this policy exists. We have called the attention of the powers-that-be and we have been promised that it will be addressed, and we shall hold them to their words.

Any plan of getting quoted on the Stock Exchange?

Very soon, that will happen. You have to know that when you go to the market, you don’t just go there for jamboree to join the bandwagon. You go there when you are ready and know what you are doing, equipped with good information. What we are doing at the moment is to gather information and then we are preparing ourself.

The market will punish you if you are not ready before you go in to it.

What does it feel like being a female CEO managing such a successful pharmaceutical company?

It is a really a tough job, but God does not give you a thing without giving you the grace to carry it. I was going to study engineering but I found myself in pharmacy, and in manufacturing for that matter. Manufacturing in a Third World country can be very challenging; but we are still marching on, we thank God for that. I say to people, what you can do today, please don’t leave it till tomorrow because it might be too late. It is hard sometimes for people to understand.

But through consistency, and reinforcing, I have been able to hold on, with the support of people around me. I have good people around me that can represent me well. You have to invest in people- by training and retraining them constantly. Even ourselves, we have to train and retrain constantly. The

• Okoli

‘Bank loans with high interest rate is one of the major factors. Since we don’t have long-term money in this country, it is a great challenge. But we, by the special grace of God, will continue to make our mark. I tell people that this is our country and God didn’t make a mistake to put us here; so everybody should work hard to make a mark.

Nigeria is the investment destination of the world, so why can’t we, the owners of the country, excel and be at the top of the economy?’

• Okoli

essence of life is to give hope to people and believe in them. You cannot say you have a successful company or business when people around you don’t know what is happening. Through consistent training, I can tell you that I have been able to raise champions that are now even better than myself.

Would you say your vision for Emzor Pharmaceuticals has been realised?

The vision for Emzor is to be a world-class leader in the healthcare sector. The

healthcare industry is expanding all the time.

We are trying our best because we have subsidiaries- we are producing quality products at affordable prices; we now have Emzor Hescco, which is the hospital arm. We recently had an exhibition of our hospital equipment like beds, theatre equipment, etc.

We have “well-o-cracy” which is our mantra; we see a world where everyone is healthy and have access to affordable drugs and services; this is our gift to the world and to Ni-

gerians.

There are a few people left in your line of business. Why do you think this is so?

The Nigerian environment, as it is, is not investment friendly because if you don’t have power, infrastructure, incentives, then there is a problem. Investment will only flow to a place where you have these facilities. In Nigeria there is a lot of attempts and things being done to make sure that the situation changes because when that happens, it is those that have been steadfast and truly believe in Nigeria that will benefit; I believe in my country, it is just that we are not getting things right but that does not stop me from being consistent because I know that things will get better, and in this, we have to thank the press because you have also been consistent in sensitising people. I am sure that we are going to get a better Nigeria.

When I was born, Nigeria was beautiful; when I started my business, Nigeria was good, but along the line it changed; however, we thank God now because we are now going to take our rightful place as the giant of Africa. Then real investors will come in but you must note that the most important investor in any country is the people of that country because if we don’t invest in our country who will do so for us genuinely?

What this means is that Nigerians need to be empowered to be able to do this, and what we make in Nigeria must be used by Nigerians; that is the next job to be done. There were more players in the sector before the indigenous manufacturers entered the scene.

There hasn’t been a lot of encouragement, and it has really been neglected over the years. You will find out that people have taken their money and put it elsewhere to either trade or do other businesses. But with what the minister and banks are doing, we are planning to revive the sector and we are hopeful that we will be lucky to do this. It is a security for a country to ensure that it has its own pharmaceuticals because if we don’t and there is a crisis in the country, it means that we will continue to depend on outsiders for something that is vital to us.

If you were made the Minister of Trade, Commerce and Industry, what will be your immediate priority?

I will not be made minister of trade, commerce and industry because I am actually a mother of ministers. I am a grandmother; in my capacity, I am in advocacy and I play advisory roles to ministers, so I will continue in that role. If I had wanted to be a minister, then it would have been several years ago. But now, I am in advocacy for the betterment of the youth and the industry.

But if I were, I will create a more enabling environment; they are trying presently, but a lot more still needs to be done. Thank God, the president has unveiled the master plan for industrial growth, but that is at the micro and SMEs (Small and Medium Scale Enterprises) level. We must grow industrial giants in this country at all levels and across all fields of human endeavour so that our people can know that they can do it and they can also be “Bill Gates.” It is important that it is done. There must be a long term fund in this country without which industries cannot survive in this country.

Can you give the younger generation tips on how to own a successful business?

What is worth doing at all, is worth doing well. Don’t cut corners in your business, you need to have passion, be committed, love what you do, because if you don’t love what you do, then you can’t be successful; you need to plan and look at world best practice and benchmark. You need to study role models you want to be like; read their success stories, and don’t queue into the negative side of life, because in this country, there are a lot of people that like to tell stories; story tellers are time wasters, and you can’t afford that. You should associate yourself with people who are focused and read a lot of books and leverage on the influence of internet positively. It is a lot easier for people to succeed these days than when we started because you can now easily get access to information that can help your business. Don’t look at the negatives; and don’t be in a rush to make money; the most important thing in life is to make your people happier than when you met them. It is very important that you make that mark and then you also have fulfilment. God wants you to make a difference and you have to make the difference.

How do you unwind with your tight schedule?

What I find out is that the presence of the Lord is awesome. I unwind listening to Christian music and tapes; that is the best for me. I also read books and try to mix with my friends.

29

THE NATION MONDAY, APRIL 14, 2014

MONEYLINK

emerge in CBN advises banks, discount houses on Winners Ecobank promo E account rendition T HE Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has advised banks and discount houses on how to render their accounts.

CBN Director, Banking Supervision, Mrs Tokunbo Martins, made this known at the weekend.

In a circular, she said following the ‘Go-Live’ of the FinA Regulatory Reporting Application last December, all banks and discount houses had been required to submit daily, monthly, quarterly and semi-annual returns via the e-FASS and FinA Applications.

E-FASS is software that helps banks to transmit their daily transactions to the CBN. She explained to enable report-

G

ing institutions become familiar with the new application (FinA), the deadline for submission of returns was not strictly enforced, regretting that some institutions did not even render their returns through FinA. Martins said it has become necessary to remind all banks and discount houses about the timelines for the rendition of statutory returns through eFASS and FinA, should, henceforth, be strictly enforced, adding that daily returns should be submitted on or before

10.00 a.m. of the following day.

However, monthly, quarterly and semi-annual returns would be submitted on or before the fifth day after the month end.

Where the fifth day is on a weekend or public holiday, returns should be submitted the previous day.

She said the directive takes immediate effect, adding that all reporting institutions were requested to note the above timelines as any future breach shall be promptly met with the applicable sanctions.

•CBN Acting Governor Sarah Alade

cally and globally. We are thrilled to pioneer this initiative which will run till March 26, 2015.

“Director of New Markets and Business Development at Avios, Nick Pilbeam, said: “We are always looking for new ways to provide British Airways Executive Club members with accessible

ways to collect Avios. The partnership with Guaranty Trust Bank is a real step forward for members in Nigeria, providing them with an easy way to build their Avios balance and enjoy the multitude of flight and travel rewards open to them.”

GTBank has been a catalyst in the

cashless society initiative and has continually deployed Point of Sale terminals. The Bank has also introduced several value adding alternative products in this regard including GTBank Mobile Money which is designed to be a convenient, secure and affordable way of sending money using a mobile phone.

in the state for both local and foreign investors, as well as identifying practical solutions to develop key strategies that will serve as an integrated road map to achieving the economic transformation of the state through a framework of private sector partnership.

The main aim of the summit is to create an enabling environment that would attract business and investment opportunities in Oyo State from stakeholders

across board, and also strengthening the progressive partnership between the State Government and the private sector.

Oyo Sate Governor, Abiola Ajimobi will declare the summit open. Other dignitaries and discussants expected at the summit include; The South African Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr J. N. K. Mamabolo; Nigeria’s foremost businessman, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, Group Chairman FBN Holdings Plc, Dr. Oba Otudeko,

Stories by Collins Nweze

GTBank inaugurates Loyalty Reward Scheme

UARANTY Trust Bank PLC (GTBank) has launched its new loyalty scheme exclusively for GTBank credit card holders.

The scheme is in partnership with Avios, the leading global travel rewards firm.

In a statement, the bank said the initiative was part of its strategy to bring the best in card products to its customers. It would reward international GTBank credit card holders, who are also members of the British Airways Executive Club Programme, for using their cards to pay for purchases using Point of Sale terminals, it added.

GTBank’s Managing Director, Segun Agbaje, said: “At GTBank, we believe that it is important to anticipate our customers’ desires, and tailor the most rewarding experiences for them. The collaboration with Avios to introduce rewards on credit card spending cements our position as the best Bank in Nigeria, in line with our strategy to serve our valued clients lo-

F

FirstBank partners Oyo on economic development

IRST Bank of Nigeria Ltd is partnering the Oyo State Government on the state summit holding today and tomorrow in Ibadan.

In a statement, the bank said the event was part of its strategic initiatives to drive financial empowerment and boost economic development for the country.

The summit, which has as theme: “Oyo State: Right for business”, is organised to highlight the various opportunities that are abound

Tenor

Amount N

Rate %

M/Date

3-Year 5-Year

35m 35m

11.039 12.23

19-05-2014 18-05-2016

WHOLESALE DUTCH AUCTION SYSTEM Amount Amount Offered ($) Demanded ($) 400m 400m 400m 400m 400m 400m

MANAGED FUNDS

NIDF

OBB Rate

Price Loss 2754.67

PRIMARY MARKET AUCTION (T-BILLS) Tenor 91-Day 182-Day

Amount 30m 46.7m

Rate % 10.96 9.62

EXHANGE RATE 6-03-12 Currency

INTERBANK RATES 7.9-10%

Date 28-04-2012 “

Year Start Offer

NGN USD NGN GBP NGN EUR NIGERIA INTER BANK (S/N) (S/N) Bureau de Change

Current Before

147.6000 239.4810 212.4997

149.7100 244.0123 207.9023

150.7100 245.6422 209.2910

-2.11 -2.57 -1.51

149.7450

154.0000

154.3000

-3.04

152.0000

153.0000

155.5000

-2.30

SYMBOL

O/PRICE

C/PRICE

CHANGE

FO TRANSCORP COURTVILLE ACCESS WAPIC AIICO MOBIL CUTIX UBA CADBURY

122.70 3.55 0.57 7.41 0.69 0.76 120.05 1.94 7.20 77.00

135.27 3.84 0.61 7.78 0.72 0.79 123.99 2.00 7.40 79.00

12.57 0.29 0.04 0.37 0.03 0.03 3.94 0.06 0.20 2.00

DISCOUNT WINDOWx Feb. ’11

July ’11

July ’12

MPR

6.50%

6.50%

12%

Standing Lending Rate ,, Deposit Rate ,, Liquidity Ratio Cash Return Rate

8.50% 4.50% 25.00% 1.00%

8.50% 4.50% 25.00% 2.00%

9.50% 5.50% 30.00% 2.00%

LOSERS AS AT 6-3-14

SYMBOL

O/PRICE

MAYBAKER TRANSEXPR REDSTAREX PRESTIGE RTBRISCOE HONYFLOUR UBN COSTAIN MANSARD LIVESTOCK

1.81 2.47 4.39 0.63 1.15 3.70 10.35 1.29 2.32 3.09

C/PRICE 1.72 2.35 4.18 0.60 1.10 3.54 10.00 1.25 2.25 3.00

CHANGE -0.09 -0.12 -0.21 -0.03 -0.05 -0.16 -0.35 -0.04 -0.07 -0.09

NIBOR Tenor 7 Days 30 Days 60 Days

Rate (Previous) 4 Mar, 2012 9.0417 9.6667 11.2917

Rate (Currency) 6, Mar, 2012 10.17% 11.46% 11.96%

Amount Sold ($) 399.9m 399.9m 399.9m

Exchange Rate (N) 155.75 155.8 155.7

Date 2-5-14 2-3-14 1-29-14

CAPITAL MARKET INDEX

C u r r e n t CUV Start After %

(S/N)

GAINERS AS AT 6-3-14

Dr. Oby Ezekwesili and Mr. Bismarck Rewane.

According to the Head, Marketing & Corporate Communications, FirstBank; Mrs. Folake AniMumuney “at FirstBank, we remain committed to promoting thought leadership and driving economic development in various states of the federation. With our support of the Oyo State Summit we hope it will foster business development and enhance capacity building in the state,” she said.

DATA BANK

FGN BONDS

Initial Current Quotation Price Market N8250.00 5495.33

COBANK has rewarded another set of winners that emerged from its Card-4-Prizes promo second monthly draws that held simultaneously in Lagos, Port Harcourt and Abuja.

The 15 lucky winners, which emerged from a transparent electronic draw witnessed by officials from National Lottery Regulatory Commission (NLRC) and the Consumer Protection Council (CPC) went home with different prizes, including smart phones; Led TVs; air conditioners; home theatres and power generating sets.

According to Head, Cards and e-banking, Ecobank Nigeria, Tunde Kuponiyi, the promo, which kicked off in February, is gradually achieving its objectives as more customers of the bank use the alternative payment channels that includes ATMs, Point of Sale (PoS) terminals and internet Banking.

He called on those who are yet to obtain Ecobank cards to do so in order to enjoy the benefits embedded in the various e-payment channels.

According to him, “a point based rating” is usually applied when selecting winners, noting that customers are awarded points for every transaction done on the bank’s alternative channels.

NSE

6-2-14

28-10-11

% Change

CAP Index

N13.07tr 40,766.16

N6.617tr 20,903.16

-1.44% -1.44%

MEMORANDUM QUOTATIONS Name Offer Price AFRINVEST W.A. EQUITY FUND 154.22 ARM AGGRESSIVE GROWTH 9.17 BGL NUBIAN FUND 1.09 BGL SAPPHIRE FUND 1.17 CANARY GROWTH FUND 0.71 CONTINENTAL UNIT TRUST 1.39 CORAL INCOME FUND 1,634.20 FBN FIXED INCOME FUND 1,061.91 FBN FIXED INCOME FUND 1,063.29 FBN HERITAGE FUND 114.62 FBN HERITAGE FUND 115.39 FBN MONEY MARKET FUND 1,087.30 FIDELITY NIGFUND 1.67 INTERCONTINENTAL INTEGRITY FUND 1.05 KAKAWA GUARANTE ED INCOME FUND 143.11 LEGACY FUND 2.50 NIGERIA INTER DEBIT FUND 1,910.24 NIGERIA INTER DEBIT FUND

Bid Price 153.47 9.08 1.07 1.17 0.72 1.33 1,631.63 1,061.01 1,063.01 115.44 114.59 1,087.00 1.62 1.03 142.62 0.76 2.44 1,903.64

• UBA BALANCED FUND • UBA BOND FUND • UBA EQUITY FUND • UBA MONEY MARKET FUND

1.2543 1.3132 0.9098 1.1597

Movement

1.2655 1.3132 0.9270 1.1597

OPEN BUY BACK

Bank

Previous 04 July, 2012

Current 07, Aug, 2012

8.5000

8.5000

Movement

30

THE NATION MONDAY, APRIL 14, 2014

EQUITIES NIGERIAN STOCK EXCHANGE DAILY SUMMARY AS AT 6-4-14

DAILY SUMMARY AS AT 6-4-14

THE NATION MONDAY, APRIL 14, 2014

31

EQUITIES

Investors jostle for GTBank, Zenith Bank, Access Bank

T

RANSACTIONS last week were heavily concentrated on the trio of Guaranty Trust Bank (GTBank), Zenith Bank and Access Bank Plc as investors focused their bargain-hunting activities on banking, oil and gas and consumer goods stocks.

The increased tempo of bargainhunting was evidenced by the positive week-on-week return and increase in value of transactions. The three banking stocks- GTBank, Zenith Bank and Access Bank accounted for about 31 per cent of aggregate turnover last week.

The significant contribution by the three banks indicated a major focus on highly capitalised banking stocks. GTBank is Nigeria's most capitalised banking stock and the fourth overall most capitalised company. Zenith Bank is the second most capitalised banking stock and the fifth overall most capitalised stock while Access Bank doubled as the seventh most capitalised banking stock and the 12th overall most capitalised company.

The three banks accounted for 504.13 million shares worth N9.44 billion in 4,087 deals, representing 30.7 per cent and 40.8 per cent of aggregate turnover volume and value respectively. Aggregate turnover last week stood at 1.64 billion shares worth N23.16 billion in 21,620 deals. Turnover had stood at 1.94 billion shares valued at N21.26 billion in 21,641 deals in the previous week.

Stories by Taofik Salako Capital Market Editor

The financial services industry remained the centre of activities with a sectoral turnover of 1.38 billion shares valued at N14.24 billion in 12,596 deals. This represented 83.7 per cent and 61.5 per cent of total turnover volume and value respectively.

Further analysis showed the conglomerates sector as the second most active with a turnover of 108.55 million shares worth N597.56 million in 1,346 deals. It was followed by the consumer goods sector which pooled 60.38 million shares worth N5.53 billion in 3,407 deals.

The market sustained a largely positive pricing trend during the

week, which resulted in a week-onweek average gain of 0.96 per cent.

The benchmark index at the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), the All Share Index (ASI), closed at the weekend at 39,083.66 points as against its opening index of 38,712.76 points for the week.

Aggregate market value of all quoted equities increased from N12.435 trillion to close the week at N12.554 trillion.

Sectoral analysis of the pricing trend indicated widespread bullish sentiments with all the key sectoral indices closing on the upside, with the exception of the NSE Industrial Goods Index, which dropped by 0.84 per cent. The NSE Oil and Gas Index rode on the crest of demand for Forte Oil to record the highest

week-on-week return of 4.16 per cent. Forte Oil recorded the highest percentage gain of 27.37 per cent to close at N135.27 per share last week. The NSE Banking Index recorded the second highest average return of 1.89 per cent. The gains by banking and oil and gas stocks impacted on the NSE 30 Index, which returned 1.08 per cent. NSE 30 Index tracks the 30 most capitalised stocks on the NSE. The NSE Consumer Goods Index recorded a week-on-week gain of 1.43 per cent while the NSE Insurance Index recorded a modest return of 0.16 per cent.

However, the year-to-date return analysis still showed substantial loss for an average investor. Average year-to-date return closed the

week at -5.43 per cent. All sectoral indices showed similar negative outlook, with the financial services and consumer goods sectors with double-digit negative returns. The NSE Banking Index showed a yearto-date return of -12.34 per cent, the highest by any subsector. Average loss in the insurance subsector stood at 10.17 per cent while the NSE Consumer Goods Index indicated average decline of 10.23 per cent. For investors with portfolios that mirror the 30 most capitalised stocks, average loss stands at 7.63 per cent while an average investor has lost about 7.41 per cent in the oil and gas sector. The NSE Industrial Goods Index showed the best, albeit negative, performance with 1.26 per cent.

Computer Warehouse Group mulls acquisitions to deepen African presence

C

OMPUTER Warehouse Group (CWG) Plc is considering acquiring some other companies in the near future as part of its pan-African growth strategy.

Commenting on the outlook of the information and communication technology (ICT) company, group chief executive, Computer Warehouse Group (CWG) Plc, Austin Okere, stated that the company plans to consolidate its base in Uganda and Cameroun and make further acquisitions to increase its footholds on the continent.

According to him, the consolidation of existing businesses and acquisition of new ones would enhance the brand equity of the company and enable it to deliver better returns.

He said CWG would focus on growing its brand through initiatives directed towards empowering the African entrepreneur by making IT available to SME’s on a subscription basis, thereby lowering the entry barriers to the use of information technology.

“We hope to further tap into the growth potentials of emerging African economies thus bringing us closer to our philosophy of being the number one IT utility enabler in Africa,” Okere said.

He pointed out that the company used the 2013 business year to consolidate its operations by investing in new systems and processes which has culminated in the cost efficiencies.

He assured that the company will continue to make investments that would make it a global brand.

Audited report and accounts of CWG for the year ended December 31, 2013 showed that turnover rose from N18.76 billion in 2012 to N20.67 billion in 2013.

Gross profit increased from N3.75 billion to N3.91 billion. Profit before tax rose to N618.46 million as against N339.23 million while profit after tax increased from N339.23 million to N612.85 million. The company has recommended a dividend per share of 8.0 kobo.

S

Global Sukuk market looks promising in 2014, says S & P

TANDARD & Poor’s Ratings Services (S & P) has predicted a positive outlook for the non-interest debt market in 2014.

The global rating agency in its review of the Sukuk market stated that the long-term prospects for the industry remain promising as regulators continue to build and strengthen their frameworks to minimize barriers in the market and deepen liquidity.

The report noted the fledging Sukuk market in Nigeria with the debut issuance of Sukuk by Osun State in 2013.

According to the report, the small-$62 million, Nigerian sharia-compliant bond issued by Osun State in October 2013 may signal the start of a fresh source of Sukuk. Senegal’s plan to issue a $200 million sukuk in the first quarter of 2014 to fund infrastructure projects is drawing on support from the Islamic Development Bank.

“We believe that the use of Islamic finance could help Africa pay for multibillion dollars’ worth of infrastructure projects a year and help fund countries’ fiscal deficits.

African nations are also looking to diversify their funding sources and gain access to a pool of wealthy investors from the Middle East—investors who can only invest in sharia-compliant products.

In 2012, for instance, Sudan sold $160 million worth of sukuk while Gambia has been issuing shortterm sukuk over the past few years,” the report noted.

S & P stated that while Malaysia is already benefitting from a broad sukuk investor base and liquid

debt market, the increased interest from issuers, notably in the Middle East and Asia, in tapping the Malaysian ringgit and US dollar market should spur growth over the next few years as Malaysia cements its leading position in the industry.

After a slowdown in 2013 when sukuk volumes declining by 13 per cent, S & P anticipated that the sukuk industry will expand again in 2014, partly driven by corporate and infrastructure issuers in the Gulf.

“What’s more, total issuance will exceed $100 billion for the third year in a row if yields remain attractive for issuers. And, after weakening in 2013, we believe issuance could pick up again in Malaysia in 2014 as its investment program resumes,” S & P stated.

The report noted that there could be double-digit growth in issuance by Gulf corporate and infrastructure entities, due in part to large infrastructure financing needs pointing out that increasing private issuance could signal a change in the sukuk market characteristics.

According to the report, Sovereign sukuk could be slowly emerging as an alternative to fund growth in African countries.

It however noted that there is need for a regulatory push to strengthen frameworks, lower barriers to entry, and deepen liquidity in the sukuk markets.

“At the same time, we believe that global growth in sukuk issuance could be further supported through: stabilizing or improv-

ing investment projections in key markets such as Malaysia, meeting the high demand for infrastructure spending across the GCC, where we expect issuance to continue climbing at a double-digit pace in the next two years, supportive regulations in the UAE, and the use of sukuk for repurchase transactions with the Central Bank of West African States (BCEAO) and sovereign issuance, which could assist the development of sukuk markets in African countries looking to fund growth and diversify fiscal funding,” S & P stated.

It added that refinancing activities could boost the sukuk market as a result of the stock of both Islamic and conventional financings maturing in 2014, estimating that about $50 billion of sukuk will mature in 2014.

“Our economists are projecting relatively strong economic growth in key sukuk issuing countries including Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE in 2014. That said, we expect Malaysia’s public investment program to continue to drive sukuk issuance throughout the year,” S & P noted.

According to the report, sovereign and sovereign-related issuance, including corporate and infrastructure GREs, will continue to dominate the sukuk market in 2014, as it has in past years.

Sovereign and quasi-sovereign sukuk, which accounted for 75 per cent of the total in 2013, are primarily issued in Malaysia. External issuance out of Malaysia slowed in the second half of 2013, reflecting the country’s investment cutbacks.

Malaysia’s public investment

programme, as illustrated by the $2 billion dual tranche in 2011, is expected to continue to influence sukuk issuance in 2014-2015.

“Looking ahead, favorable economic environment in Asia and GCC member states, embracing China’s economic soft landing and the still-strong investment pipeline in Malaysia, provide good prospects in terms of sukuk volumes,” S & P stated.

It outlined that sukuk can give governments access to a new investor base by diversifying their sources of fiscal funding while sukuk issued to foreign investors can also help to cover external financing needs and support reserve building.

“We believe that for investors looking to buy Islamic bonds outside of traditional markets like Asia and the GCC region, Africa may soon offer a fresh alternative. In recent years, Senegal and South Africa have indicated that they are looking to issue sukuk, while North African countries such as Tunisia, Egypt, and Morocco have finalized or are finalizing their legal frameworks to promote sukuk issuance,” S & P stated.

For the first time since 2007, corporate issuance rose in 2013 as sovereign issuance declined. As a sign of possibly changing market characteristics, non-sovereign issuance increased by 20 per cent, while sovereign issuance declined sharply by 26 per cent. Global sukuk market activity across all asset classes largely reflected the trend in Malaysia, which is driven by sovereign and quasi-sovereign debt issuance.

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THE NATION MONDAY, APRIL 14, 2014

THE NATION MONDAY, APRIL 14, 2014

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THE NATION MONDAY, APRIL 14, 2014

34

ISSUES There is a global standard for corporate bodies to report their social investments. But in Nigeria, many companies shy away from following this standard because it appears they have something to hide. Stakeholders are advising such companies to change their ways and adopt the global standard in preparing their sustainability report. ADEDEJI ADEMIGBUJI reports.

•Environmental degradation; an area oil companies try to avoid disclosing

Revealing all in sustainability reporting

M

OST corporate organisations in Nigeria are yet to understand how to draft their sustainability reporting, a new buzzword in corporate social responsibility (CSR) practice.

Over the years, they have continued to publish their social investment report without following the globally acceptable framework despite the domestication of the international standard on CSR called, NIS: ISO 26000 last year.

The NIS: ISO 26000 was domesticated after many adoption processes sponsored by Etisalat Nigeria; Nigeria

Breweries Plc; First Bank of Nigeria Plc; Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) and Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON). The NIS: ISO was adopted for ensuring that charity and philanthropic activities of many corporate organisations are well documented in their social reporting in line with global sustainability reporting standard.

Many indigenous business concerns are yet to understand what sustainability reporting is except the use of CSR to sustain their relationship with the communities where they operate. However, most of the experts cham-

pioning the cause of sustainability reporting and CSR have always made efforts to enlighten business concerns on the need to ensure that social investments in their operating environments follow certain framework in other to enhance result.

According to experts, sustainability report of an organisation gives information about its economic, environmental, social and governance performance and not • Continued on page 35

THE NATION MONDAY, APRIL 14, 2014

35

ISSUES

•GRI Head of Africa Focal Point Office, South Africa, Douglas Kativu addressing a cross-section of the Nigerian Private Sector at the 2014 GRI Sustainability Dialogue in Lagos

Revealing all in sustainability reporting • Continued from page 34

just report collected data, but rather a method to internalise and improve an organisation’s commitment to sustainable development in a way that can be demonstrated to both internal and external stakeholders.

Meanwhile, corporate sustainability reporting has a long history going back to environmental reporting. The first environmental reports were published in the late 1980s by companies in the chemical industry, which had serious image problems. They were followed by another group of committed small and medium-sized businesses with very advanced environmental management systems.

Non-financial reporting, such as sustainability and CSR reporting, is a fairly recent trend, which has spanned the last 20 years. Many companies produce yearly sustainability report and there are many standards and ratings organisations.

There are various reasons why companies choose to produce these reports, but primarily, the reports are intended to be “vessels of transparency and accountability.”

Often, they are intended to improve internal processes, engage stakeholders and persuade investors.

Organisations can improve their sustainability performance by measuring, monitoring and reporting on it; helping them to have a positive impact on the society, economy, and a sustainable future. The key drivers of quality sustainability reports are the guidelines of the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI), Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) award schemes or rankings. The GRI sustainability reporting guidelines enable all organisations worldwide assess their sustainability performance and disclose the results in a similar way to financial reporting. The largest database of corporate sustainability reports can be found on the website of the United Nations (UN) Global Compact initiative.

However, in the light of these, stakeholders have said Nigeria accounts for insignificant two per cent in compliance to standard reporting of their sustainability practice, a situation industry experts regarded as dismal. “Nigeria accounts for a significant two per cent of GRI-based reports with South Africa leading with about 96 per cent and the other two per cent scattered around the rest of the continent. GRI Focal Point South Africa was launched in South Africa on February 26, last year. Though based in South

‘

Corporate sustainability reporting has a long history going back to environmental reporting. The first environmental reports were published in the late 1980s by companies in the chemical industry, which had serious image problems

’

Africa, the focus of its outreach and engagement is the broader Southern Africa region and key priority target markets on the continent namely: Ghana, Nigeria, Kenya and Mauritius,” Head, Focal Point, Douglas Kativu said.

The Lead Consultant/ Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Thistle Praxis Consulting, Ini Onuk, said while the standard reporting is germane to any sector of the economy, it is disheartening to see the country score low despite its huge potential. She noted that social sustainability reporting plays a tripartite role in institutionalising.

Onuk affirmed that the global reporting community takes sustainability reporting serious. “ThistlePraxis has been engaging GRI for about three years now. At the same time, we have watched the increase albeit slow, in the number of organisations who signed on to the GRI framework. While we engaged GRI often; locally, we advocated constantly for not just the GRI framework but main-streaming sustainable development and non-financial reporting.”

The Coordinator, GRI, Tendai Matika

also noted that while Nigeria is critical to African economies, the country needs to embrace reporting standard using the new GRI yardstick, G4, which is an improvement on G3 to measure the impact of its social investment as well as enhance ethical corporate behaviour in the operating environment.

“The visit afforded GRI the opportunity to also present sustainability reporting as a tool for the private sector to assess environmental, social, economic and governance impacts and performances to enhance competitiveness, raise awareness and promote better understanding of the GRI (G4) Sustainability Reporting Guidelines. It is also to meet and engage organisations in Nigeria currently signed up to the GRI reporting framework in order to promote GRI support services and operational sustainability (OS) membership program,” he noted.

While urging businesses to adopt G4 approach to CSR management, the new standard urged businesses to disclose grey areas in any category of their businesses in a financial year coded as DMA (Disclosure on Management Approach) in the G4 reporting standard information.

“There are 44 aspects proposed for G4, including procurement practices in the economic category, equal remuneration for women and men in the labour category, and two aspects: screening and assessment, and remediation, in four categories (Environment, Labour, Human Rights and Society),” Matika said.

Although adopting the global guidelines might not appear as easy as it sounds, issues of compliance have continued to prompt discussion among sustainability managers.

Absence of regulation hampers sustainability and CSR development

With slow adoption of global framework, Onuk said the absence of regulatory frameworks hampers the growth and development of sustainability and social reporting as key elements of business accountability. She stressed that compliance serves as a key driver to adopting accountability frameworks, which spurs organisations to become committed and demonstrate leadership in order to stay competitive.

“Compliance is key, yet, integrity and actual integration of sustainability; no matter how unfavourable, is the Holy Grail,” she said. Onuk explained: ‘ThistlePraxis has been engaging GRI for about three years. At the same time, we have watched the increase albeit slow, in

the number of organisations which signed on to the GRI framework. While we engaged GRI often; locally, we advocated constantly for not just the GRI framework, but main-streaming sustainable development and non-financial reporting,” she said.

While the road to this milestone may be far and seemingly unwinding, GRI’s organisational stakeholders have been encouraged to demonstrate leadership through competitiveness, leverage on supply chain and impacts from best practices in order to encourage other organisations.

According to her, G4 aligns with other recognised frameworks, such as UN Global Compact, ISO 26000, among others, to ensure that business sustainability is the goal and not just compliance.

Using regulatory big-stick to enforce compliance

The urgent need to regulate sustainability reporting in Nigeria was recommended by various experts. This call was made at a sustainability reporting dialogue organised by Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) Africa Focal Point office, South Africa. Meanwhile, Access Bank representative at the dialogue, Mr. Temitayo Ade-Peters, observed that the absence of regulations on sustainability would not foster level playing-grounds, hence making measuring commitment hazardous. However, the Lead, ICE, Shell Petroleum Development Company, Nigeria, Dr. Uwem Ite, described the use of regulatory agencies to drive the sustainability compliance as counteraction. He said using stakeholders to drive it would be a better option than “mandatory stick of government through regulations”.

In the same vein, the Managing Director, Quadrant Company, Mr. Bolaji Okusaga, also argued that the “implementation of sustainability principles should be through voluntary commitment and not enforcement by government regulations.”

The Advisor, Learning and Development, Chevron, Nigeria, Prof Yomi Fawehinmi, maintained that “if companies comply with writing the reports demanded by the different sectoral regulators in their industry, producing the sustainability report would be difficult”.

Fawehinmi, however, noted that “organisations may not need to leapfrog to G4 immediately”.

“With constant reporting annually, a sustainability report will align with global frameworks and standards in 3-4 years,” he added.

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THE NATION APRIL 14, 2014

THE NATION

BUSINESS INSURANCE

T

NAIC pays sugar firm N80m claims

The Nigerian Agricultural Insurance Corporation (NAIC) has paid about N80million claims to the Savannah Sugar Company, Numan, following the recent crop losses sequel to the fire out break and floods that ravaged a total of 458 hectares of cultivated farmland owned by the company in Gombe, its Managing Director, Bode Opadokun has said.

According to him, the sugar company which has over 4, 863 hectares of land, had over the years, paid its premium to NAIC promptly in view

Stories by OmobolaTolu-Kusimo

of the risk potentials that characterised its operations. He said the loss occured particularly due to the perennial fire outbreaks and floods in the vast farmland, situated along the Numan-Gombe road in the North eastern part of the country.

He further said the breakdown of the claims indicated that the total sum of N32.3million was first paid as insurance claims to the company in December last year for the fire outbreak which ravaged over

194 hectares of the farmland adding that the sum of N47.2million was settled last week in the second tranche to the insured in respect of the floods which had destroyed the vast sugar cane farmland covering about 265 hectares.

Opadokun who described the firm as a frontline client of the risk bearer, had directed prompt payment of the second tranche to the company.

He promised that NAIC would at all times, respond promptly to

genuine claim requests after due diligence has been carried out with a view to sustaining its good corporate reputation in the market place.

He said prompt claims response and adequate payments are key elements of good and credible insurance firms, saying NAIC would strive to be a role model in claims payment, given the peculiar nature of its specialised agric insurance obligation to all categories of insured farmers nationwide.

He said for NAIC to sustain its competitive advantage in the industry, the firm must be re-engineered and strategically positioned to expand its clientele base across the country.

He reassured all stakeholders including the small farm holders and corporate clients of a re-invigorated NAIC for optimal service delivery to all its clients nationwide and further tasked workers to be responsive to all clients’ requests and expectations.

FRSC, NIA partner on safer roads

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HE Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) and the Nigerian Insurers Association (NIA) have assured motorists of their commitment to making the roads safe and secure through effective enforcement of compulsory motor vehicle insurance.

The two bodies said the compulsory insurance will ensure that crash victims have adequate and prompt medical attention, while owners of damaged properties resulting from insured motor crashes are also adequately compensated.

FRSC Corps Marshal, Osita Chidoka, gave the assurance during the official presentation of some units of HP Elite Pad 900 by Nigerian Insurers Association(NIA) to assist the FRSC in its verification of genuine insurance documents of motorist on Nigerian roads.

Chidoka said the Commission was working out collaboration with relevant agencies and stakeholders including the insurance industry through a technology platform that would promote the right attitude of motorists and ensure safety and protection of road users.

He said: “We have one solution that has multiple facets that would assist in guaranteeing safety of road users and motorist, and one of it is the new vehicle plate number which when concluded will help several agencies key in to make the roads safer and secure for the Nigerian people.

“Insurance industry in Nigeria has come of age because they have become more responsive to their obligations, so medical bills of crash victims should no longer be an issue, while crash vehicles also will no longer be abandoned on the roads, because insurance companies will pick the bill once the insurance is established. Also, a situation where hospitals or doctors reject crash victims or deny them treatment is over because the insurance companies will pay” He however warned that the commission will not condone any insurance company that refused to pay their claims when there is accident saying they will raise alarm and make such company face the law.

NIA Director General, Sunday Thomas, who led the delegation, said the insurance industry appreciates the efforts being made by the FRSC at ensuring safety of roads users.

He said the donation of units of HP Elite Pad 900 to the FRSC was to assist its fieldsmen ensure that vehicles on the road carry genuine insurance documents so that there would be compensation to victims who sustain injuries or die as result of crash.

He noted that insurers see the collaboration as one that should enhance value creation for the people and also enhance insurance sector contribution to the social and economic development of the nation.

• From left: Thomas, Chidoka and a member of the FRSC board, Chief Jackie Umoru, during the official presentation of some units of HP Elite Pad 900 donated by the NIA to the Commission in Abuja.

Custodian & Allied grows profit to N4.3b

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USTODIAN & Allied Plc has recorded a profit after tax of N3.6 billion in its audited annual results for the year ended 31 December 2013.

The Custodian Group’s total asset base stood at N45.6 billion, a result achieved on the back of its robust insurance subsidiaries with gross premium written at N22.9 billion.

The Group however earned a gross premium of N18.7 billion plus notable fees and investment income contributions from the pension fund administration subsidiary and the holding company.

A Director of the firm, Mr Wole Oshin who disclosed this in a state-

ment said the Group remains a leader in the other financial services sector and its subsidiaries led in their respective sectors.

He stated that going by this achievement in the year under review, Custodian’s performance demonstrates its commitment to clients and shareholders.

He said: “We will always endeavour to remain one of the most attractive stock options in the financial sector, through innovative services, expanded product portfolio, improved operational

Mutual Benefits introduces Nollywood, school, 33 other products

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• From left: Head, Strategy, Brand and Corporate Communications, AIICO Insurance, Mr Olurotimi Aleshinloye; Executive Director, Technical, Mr Jide Orimolade and Head, Retail Business Division, Mr Olusola Ajayi, during a media parley in Lagos.

PHOTO: MUYIWA HASSAN

efficiencies and stronger financial capacity. The merger exercise we concluded last year is yielding favourable results and we will not rest on this performance. We have expanded services offered from General Insurance to Life Business, Pensions and Trusteeship and remain committed to upholding the best standards and practices in the financial sector in Nigeria”.The Custodian and Allied Plc Group is a wholly owned Nigerian investment holding company quoted on the Nigerian Stock Exchange.

UTUAL Benefits Assurance Plc has introduced 36 insurance products including Nollywood and celebrity insurance policies, the first of its kind in Nigeria.

Other products launched by the firm are motor dealers complimentary insurance; school insurance; church insurance; SME comprehensive; event centre; juvenile life; law firm insurance; hair salon insurance; laundry and cleaning insurance; mortgage endowment among others.

Its Group Managing Director, Akin Ogunbiyi while unveiling the products in Lagos said they are designed to meet the needs of professionals in different sector of the country.

He said the firm researched into the needs of the people and found out that the major problem with insurance in the country is accessibility and affordability to the insurance companies and their products.

He said: “We discovered that if people have access to insurance and see the benefits they will derive, they will buy the products.

This has also made us to go into the retail business which is a bit differ-

ent from microinsurance. This way, the product will become more affordable to the people. Presently, we have 76 products that are selling fast and we are adding 36 new ones.

“We believe the products too will empower the people which are what we look out for. We have empowered people like pepper sellers association, pure water association, butchers, etc, such that they now have their tools, machineries and companies. Our priority is that we have a gospel of insurance for it to take its rightful position within the economy.”

Also speaking, its Assistant General Manager, Mr. Demola Fagbayi said the new products are generic to the need of the people.

He said they are also coming at a discounted rate and have been narrowed down to meet the basic needs of professionals in the real estate, health , and education sectors of the economy.

He said: “We want people to get value for their money. We narrow the products down to customer needs such that they do not have to pay premium for what they do not need.”

37

THE NATION MONDAY, APRIL 14, 2014

BUSINESS MOTORING

Coscharis Motors, the sole representative of BMW brand of vehicles in Nigeria, has launched the new BMW X5 into the auto market. TAJUDEEN ADEBANJO, who was at Victoria Island Coscharis Motors’ office where the event took place, reports.

•BMW X5

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HE all-new BMW X5 has a solution for any challenge that comes its way.

The striking curves on the BMW X5 signify a personality that never fails to announce its one overriding attribute: Supremacy.

The first moment you come face-to-face with the BMW X5, your eyes will be instinctively drawn to its compelling design. Its expressive front with optional Adaptive LED Headlights and the athletic side contours generate a masculine look that is beyond comparism. No matter when and where you encounter the BMW X5, one thing is certain – its exclusive appearance will take your breath away.

In other words, since its global launch, the BMW X5 has been setting milestones in its class – a class of which it was the founding member. And now it is back: The third generation BMW X5 has again surpassed its own benchmarks – as a Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) that delivers outstanding luxury and unparalleled comfort in every regard and never fails to exceed expectations.

Coscharis Motors, the sole representative of BMW brand of vehicles in Nigeria unveiled the all-new BMW X5 into the auto market recently.

With the launch, Coscharis Motors said it has moved up a notch or more on the valueadded scale.

The company’s President/Chief Executive Officer, Dr Cosmas Maduka, who was represented by the Group Managing Director, Josiah Samuel, said: “We are showing that we have the potential to continue exploiting the high value-added auto sector. We must emphasize that in launching the 3rd generation of BMW X5, we are also celebrating the international aspect of the company with its links and business relationships with BMW, Germany.

“We are proud of the confidence that we were granted by BMW AG, by giving us the dealership rights for almost 12 years running to sell their vehicles in Nigeria.”

Coscharis Motors, he said, shall continue to provide the highest levels of customer service for the elite brand, in line with interna-

The new BMW X5 tional quality standards.

As with most BMWs, the X5’s interior layout is elegant, with solid construction and high-quality materials. Models with the upgraded and extended leather options are particularly impressive. From the driver seat, one is presented with classic BMW gauges and a large central display screen with crisp graphics. The front seats are nicely shaped and adjust for a wide range of body types, while the optional multicontour seats offer even more adjustments.

The iDrive interface works well for controlling and adjusting all of the X5’s systems, and this year’s version includes a touchpad on the control knob for handwritten inputs. The second-row seats are comfortable, but rear legroom is merely adequate. The optional third row is even more cramped and really only accommodates children. With both rows folded, cargo space measures 66 cubic feet, which is below average compared to many other models in this class. One distinct attribute of the X5 continues to be its split two-section liftgate. The lower, smaller section pulls down flat, making it easy to sit on for tailgating.

“I am so happy with the All-New BMW X5 because it supports our corporate philosophy which is – ‘value for your money’,” Maduka said.

The 2014 BMW X5 comes in three main trim levels: 35i, 35d and 50i, which essentially indicate what’s under the hood. All have all-wheel drive (“xDrive”), though there is also a rear-drive version of the 35i available (“sDrive”).

Standard equipment for the 35i and 35d include 18-inch wheels, adaptive xenon headlights, foglights, a panoramic sunroof, a power liftgate, front and rear parking sensors, automatic dual-zone climate control, a

power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, leatherette (premium vinyl) upholstery, 10way power front seats (with four-way power lumbar), driver memory settings and heated front seats. Electronic features include BMW Assist, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, smartphone app integration, a 10.2-inch central display screen, the iDrive controller, a navigation system, voice controls (navigation), and a nine-speaker sound system with a CD player, a USB interface and HD radio.

The X5 xDrive50i is equipped very similarly, though it has 19-inch wheels, leather upholstery, 16-way power (‘multicontour’) front seats, a rearview camera and a top-down camera system as additional standard features.

Naturally, a wealth of option packages is available to further customise your X5. Starting things off are three optional equipment lines — Luxury, xLine and M Sport — that include different wheel designs (up to 20 inches), color schemes and trim and upholstery types.

M Sport also includes sport front seats and a sport steering wheel with shift paddles for the transmission.

From here, you can go with the Premium package that adds soft-close automatic doors, keyless ignition/entry, satellite radio and leather upholstery (35i and 35d). The Luxury Seating package gets you the 16-way power front seats (35i and 35d) and ventilation for the front seats. The Cold Weather package includes a heated steering wheel and heated rear seats.

The Driver Assistance package features a rearview camera and a head-up display (35i and 35d). To this, the Driver Assistance Plus package adds adaptive cruise control, blindspot monitoring, a top-down camera system, speed-limit info, lane departure warning, forward collision warning (including pedestrians) and city collision mitigation. The Dynamic Handling package adds adaptive suspension dampers, a rear air suspension and

active suspension antiroll bars.

Some of these features are available as stand-alone options. Other X5 options include active steering, LED headlights, automatic high-beam control, automated parking assist, upgraded and/or extended leather upholstery, upgraded interior trim, fourzone automatic climate control, rear window manual sunshades, second-row comfort seats and a third-row seat (includes the rear air suspension). One can also order a 16-speaker Harman Kardon surround-sound audio system or an even more expensive 16-speaker Bang and Olufsen surround-sound system.

Lastly, a rear-seat entertainment system and a night-vision camera system are available.

The sDrive35i (rear-wheel drive) and xDrive35i (all-wheel drive) models feature a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine that produces 300 hp and 300 poundfeet of torque. All X5s regardless of engine or drive configuration get an eight-speed automatic transmission. All xDrive versions also have hill descent control.

The EPA estimates the sDrive35i’s fuel economy at 22 mpg combined (19 mpg city/ 27 mpg highway). The xDrive version is just slightly lower at 21 mpg combined.

The xDrive35d features a diesel-powered 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-6 that produces 255 hp and 413 lb-ft of torque.

Every 2014 BMW X5 includes stability and traction control, antilock brakes, automatic brake drying, front side airbags, side curtain airbags and active head restraints. Also standard is the BMW Assist emergency communications system, which provides automatic crash notification, stolen vehicle recovery and on-demand roadside assistance. In a simulated panic stop from 60 mph, it recorded a shorterthan-average 117-foot distance.

Optional safety features are effectively grouped into the Driver Assistance packages, and they include a rearview camera, blindspot monitoring, a top-down camera system, lane departure warning, forward collision warning and a collision mitigation system that can apply the vehicle’s brakes automatically to prevent or minimise a head-on impact at low speeds.

38

THE NATION MONDAY, APRIL 14, 2014

MOTORING

Toyota recalls more than six million vehicles T

OYOTA Motor Corporation has issued a massive recall of 6.4 million vehicles worldwide for a range of glitches, from faulty airbags and seat rails to defective windshield wipers.

The action covers five separate recalls, affecting about 2.3 million vehicles in North America and 810,000 in Europe.

Toyota said it is unaware of any crashes, injuries or deaths caused by the problems, which span more than a dozen nameplates.

The largest of the five recalls, which covers spiral cables in airbags, ranks No. 4 in Toyota’s recall roster.

Toyota’s largest single-part recall came in 2012 when it fixed 7.4 million fire-prone window switches. The No. 2 recall covered 7.1 million floor mat entrapment recalls from 2009-2012, and the third-largest was the 2010 remedy of 4.45 million sticky gas pedals to address unintended acceleration.

The latest recalls, according to

Breakdown • Faulty spiral cables for driver’s air bags: 3.5 million • Possible locking problems on seat rails: 2.3 million • Failing steering column brackets: 760,000 • Windshield wipers with drainage problems: 160,000 • Possible fire hazard in starter motors: 20,000 Toyota spokesman Brian Lyons, were announced simultaneously, even though they are unrelated, because that is how the timing of the investigations unfolded.

The move came amid heightened regulatory scrutiny of automakers in the United States following General Motors Company’s recall of 2.6 million small cars for faulty ignition switches. The defect has been linked to 13 fatalities. Internal documents show that some GM engineers knew of a defect at least 10 years ago, but the company failed to issue a recall.

U.S. dealers this week are beginning to perform the recall work while GM, regulators, prosecutors and Congress all are investigating why it took GM so long to issue the recall.

Toyota penalty Toyota’s recalls today took place after the company agreed last month to a pay a penalty of $1.2 billion to the U.S. government for misleading consumers and concealing facts about unintended acceleration in its vehicles.

The rash of acceleration problems, traced to sticky gas pedals and unsecured or incompatible floor mats, triggered more than 9 million recalls - for various parts and design flaws.

The recalls total 6.86 million vehicles. But because some vehicles are involved in more than one recall, only 6.4 million vehicles are being remedied.

The 3.5-million vehicle spiral cable recall, the largest of the fixes, addresses a cable that can become damaged when the steering wheel turns. This may trigger a warning lamp and deactivate the air bag causing it not to deploy in a crash.

Outside Japan, the spiral cable recall involves certain RAV4, Corolla, Matrix, Yaris, Yaris Sedan, Highlander, Tacoma, Reiz, Hilux, Fortuner, Innova, Land Cruiser Prado and Camry nameplates. It also affects the Pontiac Vibe.

About 1.7 million of the vehicles are in North America; about 130,000 are in Europe. Toyota did

not break it down by model.

Also on the fix-it list are driver’s side seat rails that may not lock in the adjusted position.

Overseas recalls In some cases, the seat may move forward during an accident.

Outside Japan, the recall covers certain Scion xD, Urban Cruiser, Yaris and Yaris Sedan nameplates.

About 670,000 vehicles are in North America; another 90,000 are in Europe.

The third recall remedies steering column brackets that can become unstable when the steering wheel is repeatedly turned with full force. In some cases, the bracket may fail to hold the steering column in place.

It affects certain Ist, Ractis and Yaris models. About 590,000 of them are in Europe. North America is unaffected. The last two recalls affect only models in Japan and Hong Kong.

Lube giants set for motor fair

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HE lube giants - Mobil, Total, MRS, Forte Oil, Lubcon, Ascon Oil, Honeywell, V-Gold, Techno oil, and Pepco are set to upstage one another at the forthcoming Ninth Lagos Motor Fair/ Third Auto parts Expo, which will hold between 1 and 7 May. The indigenous companies are not left out as all the big names in the lubricant sector have all declared their interest to participate in this year’s event, leveraging on the outstanding success recorded in the 2013 edition.

The event has been tagged as the ‘gathering of the heavy weights’ in the lube sector.

The lube giants, while stating their level of preparedness, revealed that they have been working round the clock with the organising committee to ensure a great outing.

They also highlighted that they will be at the expo with a wide range of products ranging from the Multigrade engine oil for petrol and diesel engines, SemiSynthetic Multigrade engine oil for petrol and diesel engines, super vehicle performance engine oil, Mineral based Multigrade engine oil for petrol and diesel engines, Mineral based Mono-

Stories by Tajudeen Adebanjo grade engine oil for petrol engines and other allied products Chairman, Organising committee and the Managing Director BKG Exhibitions, Ifeanyi Agwu, noted that exhibiting at shows of such nature provides a significant opportunity to enhance brand visibility, promote new and existing products, generate leads, and drive incremental sales.

Agwu said: “A whole lot of the brands who started with us and are still with us can testify to this.

They have moved to greater heights. That is the beauty of trade shows. They take you to another level by consistently keeping you in the minds of your target audience. And we will not relent in making the dreams of these exhibitors come true because of the faith they have put in us over the years.”

He reiterated the need for other stakeholders in the industry to utilise the opportunities provided by the platform to further strengthen and promote the automobile and allied sectors which have the capability of contributing more than 10 per cent to the annual National GDP.

•From left: Regional Director, MNET West Africa, Mrs. Wangi Mba-Uzoukwu, presenting car keys to Adochie.

With them is: Mr Timehin Tairu of Media Department, Hyundai Motors Nigeria.

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YUNDAI Motors Nigeria has donated two new Hyundai cars to support Africa’s film and TV industry at the just ended 2014 Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards (AMVCA).

The vehicles, which include Hyundai Veloster three-door sports car and iX35 crossover were given out to messrs Michelle Bello for emerging winner in the ‘Trailblazer’ category of the award and Pete Edochie, who was awarded ‘Industry Merit Award.’

This is the first time the Korean automaker country representative is supporting AMVCA since the show was inaugurated last year.

Hyundai lifts film industry “We are proud to be associated with Africa’s distinguished movie stars and the film and TV industry,” Hyundai Motors said.

The company said African movie industry has contributed immensely to the socio-cultural development and diversity of the African continent.

Hyundai Motors Nigeria Head, Sales and Marketing, Jatin Nadkarni, said: “Hyundai is a global brand with predilection for high quality with stylish and fluidic sculpture designs that not only

revere Hyundai sporty and dynamic styling but seeks to compliment efforts geared at celebrating African culture and values.”

He hailed the AMVCA initiative, describing it as yet another incentive to acknowledge African homogeneous socio-cultural heritage, which are divided into great number of ethnic cultures.

“We, at Hyundai, realise the need to enrich the process of education through the development of African culture and we appreciate the significance of cultural diversity,” Nadkarni added.

SAFE DRIVING

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Wanted: Special, customised training for tanker drivers

AM quoting from a report on tankers titled: "Getting tankers off the road" published in The Nation, of Tuesday, February 11, this year. It says: "Many lives are lost on the roads to fuel tanker explosions.

Should the nation continue to move petroleum products by road in the face of this recurring disaster?"

Another report by Saturday Newswatch of March 8, this year, titled: ‘Oil Tankers: Death on country's highway, says: "The incidence of petroleum Tanker accidents has become a source of worry to stakeholders as it has claimed lots of irreparable lives and properties worth billions of Naira.’’

These reports and others are pointing to the removal or restriction of oil tankers on Nigerian roads.

I am, however, of a different opinion. If we decide to opt for the movement of petroleum products by rail, how will the train get to the various filling stations in the cities, towns and villages?

The Bible says, if the foundation

be destroyed, what can the righteous do? Imposing a ban on the tankers is not the solution to the incessant accidents they are causing. The main problem is that the foundation of the drivers is very weak. Virtually all the tanker drivers did not attend any driving school and were not given the right professional training necessary for tanker drivers even up till now.

I have carried out a lot of research work on tanker drivers as well as truck drivers in Nigeria. They are all guilty of the same problem but the case of the tanker drivers are more pronounced because they carry inflammable products. A trip from Lagos to Abuja through Okene and Ekiti and from Abuja to Kano, among others will reveal the gravity of the nuisance of Truck drivers on Nigerian roads.

Driving goes beyond the movement of a vehicle from one point to another and under normal circumstances, would - be drivers of tankers and other types of articulated vehicles must be made to undergo thorough training programmes which must cover the fol-

lowing topics among others: Vehicle technology, vehicle characteristics, vehicle limits, driving forces (friction, traction, erratic handling, Jack - knifing, trailer swing, gravity, kinetic energy, momentum, centrifugal force, hydroplaning, inertia, forces on the load, loss of control, load shedding, control maintenance etc), analysis of articulated vehicles (weight, width, length, height, distance needed to pull up, distance needed to overtake, control needed when going downhill, power needed to climb uphill. The need to avoid any sudden change of speed or direction), braking system, load restraints, environmental impact, legal requirements, traffic signs and road markings, night driving, driving in adverse condition or bad weather, safe handling of breakdowns, vehicle maintenance, pollution, personal and occupational health issues among others.

The truth is that the moment the would - be drivers of articulated vehicles are not exposed to the above indepth training and in the language or ways that will make them under-

stand the topics, the result will continue to be catastrophic.

My research also revealed that despite the high rate of accidents and fatalities involving the drivers of articulated vehicles, their employers are not willing to release them for intensive re-training programmes. I have not seen any employer of tanker drivers that can release his drivers to undergo a one week training.

Most of the drivers also do not believe that they need further training.

Hence, their unwillingness to surrender themselves for training even when their employers want them to undergo re-training programmes.

It is expedient for drivers of tankers and other types of articulated vehicles and trucks to be compelled to undergo correctional re-training programnme of a duration not less than five days so that they will without compromise be equipped with all the knowledge and skills required to safely drive the vehicles in any environment and condition in Nigeria. Crash training programmes can never correct their

Jide Owatunmise Registrar / Chief Executive, Professional Driving and Safety Academy

weak foundation.

The governments, government agencies, employers of the drivers, driving schools and the drivers themselves have vital roles to play in this direction to drastically reduce and eventually eliminate the crashes and fatalities involving tankers and other articulated vehicles and Trucks on Nigerian roads. A stitch in time saves nine.

THE NATION MONDAY, APRIL 14, 2014

39

EMPOWERMENT CLINIC with

Emphasising your major strengths

GOKE ILESANMI

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OMETIMES , self-perpetuated decline occurs more slowly, through taking core strengths for granted while chasing the greener grass, says Rosabeth Moss Kanter, a professor at Harvard Business School and author of “Confidence and SuperCorp”. It is noteworthy that life is basically about competition. Whether you are a businessman, student, job-seeker or worker, you are daily confronted with peer competition. To stay ahead of competition, you need to identify and effectively emphasise your major strength(s) technically referred to as Unique Selling Point or Unique Selling Proposition.

Strategic articulation

In the course of preparing your curriculum vitae (CV) or cover letter as a job-seeker for instance, it is necessary for you

to think about your unique selling point, that is, what stands you out. Many job-seekers fail to get a job for a long period of time because they do not emphasise the right strengths in their curriculum vitae, which can easily attract the attention of prospective employers that can quickly invite them for an interview.

As a business organisation, for instance, identifying and articulating your unique selling points will make you become a respectable brand and greatly boost your chances of survival and profitability. The benefits you derive from effectively stressing your strengths are embedded in the three words making up the phrase “Unique Selling Proposition”. In other words, through structural decomposition or segmentation of the phrase into constituent parts, you can clearly understand the benefits.

Structural segmentation

Let us start with the first (adjectival) word “Unique”. Being unique implies that you will clearly stand out in a crowd of your competitors. But this can only be achieved through extraordinary hard work. The second constituent word is “Selling”. Being able to stand out will help you persuade prospects and customers alike to exchange money for your product or service. The third constituent word “Proposition”, a distinct proposal from a special person

WORKPLACE MATTERS

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or organisation that you have been, will easily help you get business or sales, especially that you have stood out in a crowd.

You can see the interconnectedness in the constituent concepts of the phrase Unique Selling Proposition.

Hard work

It requires investment of a lot of efforts to build your unique selling proposition or unique selling point. But it is a worthwhile venture due to the added advantage derivable from it in terms of edge over competitors.

The task of composing a Unique Selling Proposition can sometimes be extremely challenging.

Yet, every business needs to identify and emphasise its own, to be able to stay ahead of competition.

Many businesses market their Unique Selling Proposition by stressing the advantages of their products or services. In your Unique Selling Proposition, place emphasis on the positive differences between you and others in the marketplace, especially in a customer-benefits-focused way if possible. However, if you cannot differentiate your business in terms of what you sell, why not capitalise on the way you sell or your accessibility or good location? Most often, the Unique Selling Proposition is articulated through a slogan or credo.

Ineffective articulation

strength

The ease with which your competitors can copy your Unique Selling Proposition is worthy of note when you are trying to package what to emphasise as your major strength. Many people and organisations mistakenly use pricing as their Unique Selling Proposition. But this is ineffective and weak except you are capable of selling a large quantity on a consistent level.

As Andrew Griffiths says in his book, “101 Survival Tips for Your Business”, you need to charge the price your product or service is worth irrespective of the pressure of competition, especially when you focus on quality.

Extension

It is risky to rely on price competition. It is true that you need to know what your competitors offer. In short, you cannot compete effectively if you lack knowledge of what you have to contend with in terms of competitors’ activities. So take some time and conduct research into what they have. Even though there are many possibilities of composing a Unique Selling Proposition, the best thing to do, however, is to adopt a Unique Selling Proposition that creatively offers an answer to a clear vacuum in the market that you can actually fill.

Deploying SWOT strategy

It is easy to discover the vacuum by accurately deploying Strengths, Weaknesses, Op-

portunities and Threats (SWOT) Analysis strategy to assess the operations of competitors in your industry and building your strength in the areas of your competitors’ weaknesses.

Then you can communicate this strength through your Unique Selling Proposition. It is also noteworthy that communicating a Unique Selling Proposition that a person or an organisation lacks competence for can erode the overall credibility and cost such an organisation its reputation with attendant massive loss of business.

For instance, imagine a community newspaper that prints 1,000 copies using a Unique Selling Proposition such as, “We are the most circulated and most read newspaper in Nigeria”! What happens if prospective readers start looking for it to buy but cannot get it easily? So using an empty slogan as your Unique Selling Proposition may cause more harm than not having a Unique Selling Proposition at all.

Final note

To have an effective Unique Selling Proposition, you need to be specific not vague. For example, say “Our sealing machine seals 10 cartons in one hour” not “Our sealing machine has great sealing capacity”.

Identify and articulate your Unique Selling Proposition today and you will be able to stay ahead of competition with ease.

Till we meet on Wednesday.

Building the right type of teams for productivity

EAMWORK is fast becoming the preferred practice in many organisations as traditional corporate hierarchies give way to flat, multiskilled methods of working.

There is no limit to the potential of a good team. If given a seemingly impossible task, team members will reinforce each other’s confidence as they seek to turn the task into reality.

Michael Harrison, an author, publisher and business consultant, says the collective ability to innovate is stronger in a good team than that of individuals because the combined brainpower of a team, however small in number, exceeds that of any one person. By harnessing this power, a team can go beyond simple, useful improvements to achieve real breakthrough.

Vague usage

One word that is vaguely used in Nigeria, especially in the corporate environment is “Teamwork”. Having teams in place or engaging in teamwork without actually defining the type does not automatically guarantee organisational success. Effective teamwork is the foundation of all successful management and a true and effective team is a living, constantly changing, dynamic force in which a number of people come together to work. Team members discuss their objectives, assess ideas, make decisions and work towards their targets together under strong and effective leadership.

Realising corporate goals

By Goke Ilesanmi

Carole Sue Jones, a training and instructional design professional with a strong focus on management development says managers need to be able to build effective teams and relationships in order to accomplish business priorities and goals. In Jones’ words, “They define success in terms of the whole team’s performance and will allow people to be responsible for the work they do.” Such managers must balance that with the ability to provide the information their team members need to do to complete their tasks while helping them to feel good about the work that they do. Informing is a critical task in productivity and team-building.

Ineffective teams

Ineffective teams are either metaphorically not seen as teams or they are literally seen as purposeless teams just as a cowardly man can either be metaphorically referred to as a woman or literally called a fearful man. That is why Jim Clemmer, the bestselling author of “Pathways to Performance and The Leader’s Digest” says, “For all the big talk, matching Tshirts..., calling a group of people a team does not make it one.

These groups are usually just a collection of individuals from the same department who meet periodically. Few of us have been lucky enough to participate in a strong, united team.”

Clemmer adds that giving everyone a T-shirt may produce short-term warm and fuzzy feel-

ings but it rarely leads to a powerful, united team unless root issues are addressed. An example of a root issue is chronic animosity between managers working with the team.

Success factors and types of teams

Preparing the ground rules and setting goals are just a few of the guidelines that can help your teams reach their goals such as improvement in productivity, process management, innovation, cost-effectiveness, etc. According to Kevin Eikenberry, a leadership expert, everyone thinks teams are a good thing.

Leaders like to form teams. People, for the most part believe in the value and purpose of teams.

Two types of teams have been identified. These are football/ basketball teams; and track and field teams. Your organisation’s success depends on your choice out of these two types and how effective you are able to manage the right choice you have luckily made.

First type and 2013 Fifa Under-17

Football/basketball teams are teams that naturally require that everyone should play as a unit.

Such teams naturally compel people to cooperate and remain committed in organisations because it is not possible to be successful alone as individuals.

Despite parading really very young Under-17 team during the 2013 Fifa Under-17 World Cup at the United Arab Emirate last year, we were able to win

the tournament because our players played cohesively as a team with a common goal.

Second type

Track-and-field teams constitute the second type of teams in organisations. Organisations need to avoid putting this type of teams in place because people will target individual success instead of being committed to effective teamwork. For instance, we lost in the final of the 2009 edition of Fifa Under-17 World Cup that we hosted because some players were pursuing individual agenda, trying to impress the football scouts and/or winning golden boots, etc. Track and field teams are unconsciously created in organisations when individual efforts are predominantly rewarded instead of team efforts.

Then rivalry will start among staff instead of healthy competition among different teams in an organisation.

Addition

For example, we normally have Team Nigeria whenever we are going to the Olympics.

The team will naturally be made up of sprinters, high jumpers, shot putters, distance runners, footballers, etc. Even though members or sub-teams are collectively known as Team Nigeria, they are not interdependent in their engagements when they get there as they target individual or sub-team success.

This is because the shot putters can succeed without the high jumpers, sprinters or football-

ers. In track and field events, except in relay events, athletes are not interdependent. Though members of the football subteam at the Olympics need each other to succeed, the football sub-team does not need other sub-teams to succeed because their set skills are different, even though all the sub-teams are Team Nigeria.

Last words

Success of any organisation depends greatly on effective teamwork. So organisations need to set priorities right and review them frequently; balance teams for strengths; give team members proper orientation as regards overall corporate goals, etc. To achieve results, encourage team performance in your firm and discourage personal reward. When there is a promise to reward players that score in a football match, we know they will no longer pass to each other very well, not even to a player that has clear chances to score.

Till we meet on Wednesday.

•GOKE ILESANMI, Managing Consultant/CEO of Gokmar Communication Consulting, is an International Platinum Columnist, Certified Public Speaker/MC, Communication Specialist, Motivational Speaker and Career Management Coach. He is also a Book Reviewer, Biographer and Editorial Consultant.

Tel: 08055068773; 08187499425 Email: gokeiles2010@gmail.com Website: www.gokeilesanmi.com

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THE NATION MONDAY, APRIL 14, 2014

TAXATION

Becoming tax certified - the TCC B EFORE the advent of the Europeans, Nigerians willingly paid their taxes in kind by rendering free services such as clearing of bush and fallow farmlands, digging pit toilets, wells, etc. for the benefit of the community as a whole. Properties were usually seized whenever there was a default and such properties might be reclaimed on payment of money.

Today, the voluntary payment of taxes in Nigeria has systematically deteriorated as few taxpayers enjoy paying taxes voluntarily, although many regard it as a public duty to pay tax as required by government and law, which of course comes back to them in the form of social services. However, some citizens perform this duty but do not see what benefit they derive from it; others still have the simple mentality that the tax collector is a public enemy to be outsmarted by all possible means.

In an attempt to ensure that taxpayers pay their taxes as and when due, the Federal Government in the late 1970s, introduced the issuance of the Tax Clearance Certificate (TCC) as a tool to enhance revenue collection. This was especially necessary in order to enable governments and other related third parties to, at a glance, confirm that the holder of the certificate had in the three preceding years of the date of the issuance of the TCC, paid his or her taxes. The logical obverse is that persons that do not have a TCC are deemed not to have paid their taxes.

The best description on what a TCC is can be found in the statutory provision of Section 101(1) of the Companies Income Tax Act (CITA) as amended, which provides that ‘Whenever the Board is of the opinion that tax assessed on profits or income of a person has been fully paid or that no tax is due on such profits or income, it shall issue a tax clearance certificate to the person within two weeks of the demand for such certificate by that person, or, if not, give reasons for the denial’. Reference to the Board in this provision is the Federal Board of Inland Revenue now the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS).

A tax clearance certificate must disclose, with respect to the three preceding years of assessment, of the mentioned taxpayer, the total profits or chargeable income of

the taxpayer, the tax payable, the tax actually paid and alternatively, a statement that no tax is due for payment.

Section 101(2) & 101(4) of CITA, as amended, further elucidated that it is a mandatory statutory requirement that all departments of government and commercial banks must demand for the TCC, for the three preceding years, of any person with whom they intend to have any dealing in the areas of applications for government loans, contracts and other businesses, registration of motor vehicles, applications for firearms license, foreign exchange transactions or the remittance of funds outside Nigeria, applications for certificate of occupancy of land, building plans, transfer of legal title to land, applications for plot of land, export or import licenses, pools or gaming licenses, distributorship, registration of a limited liability company or a business name, allocation of market stalls, etc.

A point of contention with regard to tax assessments and TCC has always been whether they are by themselves final and conclusive tax documents. Section 76 of CITA, as amended provides that where no valid objection or appeal has been lodged within the time provided in the relevant tax law against a tax assessment, or where the total profit and the tax payable on such profit of a company has been determined after an objection or an appeal, the determined assessment shall be final and conclusive for all purposes of compliance with the tax provisions of CITA, as amended.

There is, however, no specific Section or provision in the Act or in any tax circular which makes the issuance of a TCC a final and conclusive evidence of the tax paid or payable for the stated period. The professional view in this regard is that many TCC are generally issued based on the tax returns which are filed under the self-assessment procedure. However, should the tax authority detect any under-payment of tax or fraud in the payment or non-payment of tax, the various tax legislations allow the FIRS to undertake a tax audit and/or issue further tax assessments based on the audited accounts filed with the self-assessment forms, or apply the best-of-judgment

• Acting Executive Chairman, FIRS, Alhaji Kabir Mohammed

Mashi

principle or other methods allowed under the tax laws to raise further tax assessment.

Therefore, the amount of tax paid and indicated as such in a TCC will be final and conclusive only where it has been adjudicated upon and or finally determined by a judicial authority.

So, whenever you plan to apply for a government loan or contract, firearms licence, foreign exchange transaction, certificate of occupancy of land, building plans, transfer of legal title to land, plot of land, export or import licenses, pools or gaming licenses, distributorship, registration of a limited liability company or a business name, allocation of market stalls or the remittance of funds outside Nigeria etc, be sure you are tax certified with the TCC.

BUSINESS UK sees more scope for refinery closures

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RITAIN said there was scope for more United Kingdom (UK) refining capacity to close without undermining energy security but set up a new task force to help the struggling sector fend off overseas competition.

The government’s longawaited review of Britain’s refining and fuel imports sector comes a week after Murphy Oil said it could be forced to close its loss-making Milford Haven plant in Wales after talks with a potential buyer collapsed.

In a 44-page report, the Department of Energy and Climate Change said environmental regulation along with the United States shale boom and the rise of new refiners in Asia made it harder for Britain’s seven refineries to compete.

“Looking to the future, given current overcapacity in product supply there is scope for further rationalisation in the UK without impacting on supply security,” the review said.

“Government recognises ... the benefits of ensuring that refining and imports business sectors are able to operate successfully in the UK, whilst also recognising that ultimately market forces will decide what supply configuration prevails.”

It announced the creation of a new joint government and industry Midstream Oil Task Force to look at ways of easing the regulatory burden and market distortions to help refiners meet global challenges that have seen their profits dwindle.

European refiners have struggled with stagnant demand and increased overseas competition which has crushed margins and seen several plants closed or idled in recent years.

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‘Africa needs to refine its oil’

HIOPIA’S leading private oil marketer plans to expand into neighbouring east African economies and is interested in part financing a refinery after commercial discoveries in the region.

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of National Oil Ethiopia, Tadesse Tilahun, said untapped crude deposits in Kenya and Uganda handed governments and investors the

opportunity to construct a refinery able to compete with cheap imports from India, the Gulf and beyond.

Doing so would help African countries extract more value from their resources and cut their import bills, Tadesse said.

“Africa’s demand for refined products is growing hugely because of its economic growth. The crude findings are also increasing. That is the opportunity,” Tadesse said in

Addis Ababa as part of the Reuters Africa Summit.

“We want to (build) a refinery. We have already discussed this in principle with our shareholders, who are very much committed.”

National Oil’s (NOC) shareholders include Saudi billionaire Mohammed Hussein Al Amoudi, whose investment portfolio in construction, gold, hotels and energy has helped amass an estimated fortune of

over $15 billion, according to Forbes.

Tadesse said other private and public investors would need to come on board.

Eastern Uganda has become the latest frontier in the global hydrocarbon hunt after gas finds off Tanzania and Mozambique and oil discoveries in Uganda and Kenya.

Even so, Sub-Saharan Africa faces headwinds supplying more of its own refined petroleum products. Regional coop-

eration and funding for oil-related infrastructure are proving slow, while foreign oil refiners and traders are flooding the $80 billion market with imports.

Existing pipelines also tended to run to the coast, Tadesse said, either for the export of crude or the import of refined products from small-scale refineries found near ports.

“That has to change,” Tadesse said. “Refineries are now needed inland so that Africa can supply itself.”

e-government: Anambra embarks on resident identification programme

T •From left: Regional Head, South South, Ecobank Nigeria, Mr. Chinedu Ibe; Staff member Cards & eBusiness Unit, Ecobank, Mr. Oyebode Akande; Senior Surveillance & Enforcement Officer, Consumer Protection Council (CPC), Chinyere Iloene; CPC member, Ugochukwu George; Staff member Cards & eBusiness Unit, Ecobank, Nkoyo Ekop, at the bank’s Cards for Promo regional draws in Port Harcourt ... at the weekend.

Global trade unbundled, says report

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LOBAL trade patterns have changed dramatically in the last two decades. Emerging markets now account for 42 per cent of world exports, up from 19 per cent in 1990, or 52 per cent excluding intra-EU trade. Asia has firmly established itself as the centre of the “made in the world” vertical global supply chain, with China

emerging as a mega-trader.

Trade is increasingly “unbundled” with countries no longer trading in goods so much as in “tasks”, such as design or assembly. Services trade is expanding faster than goods trade driven by improving communications; it cannot easily be measured at the border and some estimates put services at 40 per cent

of total trade now.

Historically trade growth has averaged about 1.4 times GDP growth. But since the 2008 peak, world exports have risen only five per cent, while nominal GDP has grown more by than10 per cent.

Some fear that this slowdown is structural. We, however, believe trade growth will pick up and this ratio can be restored.

O improve public service delivery to her citizens in the areas of health, welfare and transportation, among others, the government of Anambra State is investing in residents’ identification programme. The project being executed by Chams PLC will enable the government of Anambra State to provide better public services at less cost to residents across rural and urban areas of the state.

Commenting on the project, Mr. Demola Aladekomo, Managing Director, Chams PLC said, “The utilisation of information and communication technology to improve service delivery in the public sector in Nigeria will make governance inclusive – bringing it closer to the people. It implies improved access to public service and drastic reduction in the high incidence of fraud and wastage often associated with public sector

welfare programmes”.

Aladekomo stated that, globally, governments are investing in meeting the identity management needs at city, state and regional levels. Because it provides exceptional opportunity to cut capital and recurrent administrative costs, while also protecting citizens such as pensioners by making it difficult for dishonest persons to steal their benefits. He added that, “It is a welcome development that Anambra is at the forefront of heralding access to improved public services through e-government channels”.

Mr. Olufemi Williams, Deputy Managing Director, Chams Plc said, “The ongoing implementation of residents’ identity management programmes by Anambra State will enhance the ability of the state government to make short, medium and long term plans for the benefit of their people.

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THE NATION MONDAY, APRIL 14, 2014

POLITICS

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MONDAY, APRIL 14, 2014

THE NATION

E-mail:- politics@thenationonlineng.net

RIVERS POLITICS

• Wike

• Abe

• Peterside

• Sekibo

Politics in Rivers State is shaped by the upland/riverine dichotomy. Ahead of the next year’s governorship election, the riverine area is agitating for power shift, claiming that the upland area has enjoyed the slot for 16 years. Correspondent BISI OLANIYI reports that the Supervising Minister of Education, Chief Nyesom Wike, with the tacit supportof the Presidency, appears determined to upset the zoning arrangement.

T

HE upland/riverine dichotomy is a very strong factor in the politics of Rivers State.

In terms of population, the uplanders are more than the riverine people.

Thus, the riverine people fear that the upland politicians would always produce the governor at the expense of the equally qualified and competent persons from the riverine communities.

The riverine people are clamouring for power shift. They want a politician from the area to succeed Governor Rotimi Amaechi in 2015 in the spirit of fairnes, justice and equity.

Since 1999, the three governors: Dr. Peter Odili, Sir Celestine Omehia and Amaechi, who was the Speaker of the Rivers House of Assembly for eight years (1999 to 2007), are from the upland part. Thus, the area would have enjoyed the slot for 16 years by 2015.

Amaechi, who is the Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) and the leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) wants to hand over to an anointed successor in 2015. But, he has not publicly indicated his preference for either the upland or riverine person.

The leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), especially President Goodluck Jonathan, an indigene of Otuoke in Ogbia Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, and his wife Dame Patience, who hails from Okrika, the headquarters of Okrika LGA of Rivers State, want the party to produce the next governor.

President Jonathan is seeking reelection in 2015 and Rivers State is strategic to his ambition, in view of the over two million registered voters in the state. Thus, the Niger Delta state is likely to become a battleground.

The riverine (Ijaw) people, under the umbrella of the Eastern Delta People’s Association (EDPA), are insisting on producing the governor, A leader of the group, Lawrence Jumbo, declared that: “On upland/ riverine dichotomy we stand.”

The Eastern Delta people inhabit 10 local governments. They are Andoni, Opobo/Nkoro, Bonny, Okrika, Ogu-Bolo, Port Harcourt (South), Asari-Toru, Degema, Akuku-Toru and Abua-Odual.

A chieftain of the PDP, Opunabo Inko-Tariah, admonished Mrs.

2015: Zoning battle in Rivers Jonathan to ensure that a riverine person succeeds Amaechi.

Inko-Tariah, a Kalabari, who is also the President of the socio-political group, the Rivers Liberation Alliance, said that power shift would give the zone, sense of belonging and compensate them for their earlier support for the upland people.

He said: “We want the First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan, to be solidly behind a riverine person as the next governor of Rivers State to ensure equity, justice and fairness.

“Rivers is a peculiar state. Emphasis must be placed on upland/riverine dichotomy in 2015. We are talking of God-made, not man-made dichotomy. Governor Amaechi’s successor must be a riverine person. The best candidate can be found in any of the riverine communities.

“If an uplander is forced on Rivers people, the political haemorrhage would occasion the death of the PDP. It could lead to a serious crisis, if we are not circumspect. The PDP, APC or Labour Party should allow a riverine governor in Rivers State in 2015. We are pleading today. Tomorrow, we may no longer do so.

“The Presidency and the national leadership of the PDP should ensure that the right thing is done in Rivers State, ahead of 2015. President Jonathan is in a fix because of his ambition. A leader should be able to say what is right or wrong.

“Nobody should be desperate.

Violence is a function of desperation.

The Rivers State’s political engine is overheated. The peace of the state is being constantly threatened. Any slight error on the part of the gladiators would consume the state.

It is not a battle of ideology, but of ego.”

Inko-Tariah also stated that he envisaged crisis in Rivers State ahead of the 2015 elections, if the problem of the upland/riverine dichotomy was not resolved, stressing that it would

take the grace of God to stave it off and that anybody could be the victim.

He warned that if an uplander emerges as the next governor, the riverine people would agitate for the creation of a new state.

The President of Rivers Liberation Alliance admitted that it was the constitutional right of all qualified Rivers people to vie for the governorship in 2015, but it would only be fair to allow a riverine person to be the next occupant of the Brick House (Government House), Port Harcourt.

The governorship aspirants are Nyesome Wike, Magnus Abe George Sekibo and Dakuku Peterside.

Wike, an Ikwerre from Rumueprikom in Obio/Akpor Council, is a two-term Chairman of the council; former Chief of Staff, and Director-General of Amaechi Campaign Organisation in 2011, before he was appointed as a minister of State for Education. He is also the grand patron of the Grassroots Development Initiative (GDI).

The President’s wife is now backing the minister, who is at the forefront of the re-election campaign for her husband, in spite of the ban by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The First Lady was earlier pushing for the candidature of Senator George Thompson Sekibo, who represents Rivers East District. But, suddenly she changed her mind.

Sekibo, who hails from Ogu, the headquarters of Ogu/Bolo local government, also the hometown of the self-acclaimed Speaker of the Rivers House of Assembly, Evans Bipi, is banking on Dame Jonathan’s support, since Okrika and Ogu people speak the same language.

Wike and Amaechi from Ubima in Ikwerre local government, are both Ikwerre. Wike is from Ikwerre South, while the NGF chairman is from

Ikwerre North.

Many politicians, have been endorsed the minister as the PDP’s governorship.

The Movement for the Survival of the Ogoni People (MOSOP), however, dismissed the claim by the few “selfserving” Ogoni politicians that Wike had been endorsed as a governorship candidate.

MOSOP, through its President, Legborsi Saro Pyagbara, called on all Ogoni people and the members of the public to discountenance the spurious, deceitful and misleading claim, declaring that Ogoni had not endorsed any politician. He said that the next governor would come from any of the four Ogoni LGAs of Khana, Gokana, Tai and Eleme - which had not produced the governor since the creation of the state on May 27, 1967.

The Kalabari people from AkukuToru, Asari-Toru and Degema Councils also indicating that, since Rivers was created nobody from the area has emerged as governor.

A PDP chieftain from Etche Prince Emma Anyanwu, claimed that the people of Etche ethnic nationality, in Etche and Omuma Councils had endorsed Wike as Amaechi’s successor on the platform of the PDP. Anyanwu stressed that he was endorsed because of his detribalised nature, capacity and integrity.

The Commissioner for Energy and Natural Resources, Okey Amadi, an Etche indigene, however, dismissed the purported endorsement saying that majority of Etche people belong to the APC. Amadi insisted that a God-fearing person, with the interest of Rivers people at heart, would succeed Amaechi in 2015.

Some of the founding fathers of the PDP in Rivers State and members of the Rivers PDP Third Force Movement (RPTFM) declared that the supervising Minister of Educationwould not be Rivers governor in 2015.

‘The riverine people are clamouring for power shift. They want a politician from the area to succeed Governor Rotimi Amaechi in 2015 in the spirit of fairnes, justice and equity’

They said that, to ensure equity, justice and fairness, somebody from another ethnic group or senatorial district should succeed Amaechi.

PDP leaders in Rivers State: Chiefs Lolo Ibineye and Anab Sara-Igbe, from Kalabari, Elemchukwu Ogbowu from Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni LGA in Orashi Region have asked Wike to forget his 2015 ambition.

The PDP chieftains maintained that it would be difficult for another Ikwerre person to succeed Amaechi.

In their opinion, a Kalabari should be the next governor and he should be succeeded by an Ogoni.

They admonished President Jonathan and other leaders of the PDP to call Wike to order, addiing that imposing him as the standard bearer of the party would lead to the failure of the PDP. Rivers PDP’s spokesman, Jerry Needam, claimed that Ibineye and Sara-Igbe were not card-carrying members of the party, which they denied. But, the Secretary of the PDP, Ibibia Walter, has announced the suspension of Ogbowu for anti-party activities.

The Rivers PDP Third Force Movement, through its General Secretary, Oprite Amachree, however, accused Wike of taking over the PDP, through his GDI. The group said: “The PDP in Rivers State no longer exists because Wike’s GDI has taken over the machinery and functions of the party. As a result , Rivers PDP continues to go down whileWike’s political empire is increasing.

“Wike is using the name of President Goodluck Jonathan to build a political empire for himself. PDP should not allow Wike to field himself as the governorship candidate of the party for the 2015 election, because it would amount to grave injustice to the people of Rivers State, with plurality of ethnic nationalities.

“If the PDP insists on fielding Wike as its standard bearer in Rivers State in 2015, it would lose abysmally. Wike must be sacked so that the source of power which he uses to build his political empire at the expense of the Rivers PDP will be cut off.

“Rivers PDP must be restructured to give other stakeholders the opportunity to contribute to the development of the party. We also wish to state that Wike’s PDP State Executive in Rivers State, led by Felix Obuah, is grossly incompetent.”

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THE NATION MONDAY, APRIL 14, 2014

POLITICS EKITI POLITICS Ekiti State All Progressives Congress (APC) Director of Publicity and Media Mr. Segun Dipe spoke with SULAIMAN SALAWUDEEN on the chances of the party at the governorship poll.

‘APC already looking beyond this election’ T

HE Ekiti State governorship election is slated for June 21.

What are the party’s chances?

We in the All Progressives Congress (APC) don’t see it as ‘chances, but a very good opportunity to retain power in Ekiti State. We know we have done everything we need to do to n is to rule Ekiti for unbroken 10, even 15 terms. We have done the registration of our members across the nation. In Ekiti alone, we have no less than 300,000 membership. This large turnout of people in Ekiti State showed the enthusiasm with which people have accepted the APC and the government of the day led by Dr. John Kayode Fayemi. We are prepared and even if they want to conduct the election today, we will always go there and sweep every part of the state.

You speak with unusual confidence?

I like what you have said. I speak with confidence, but I am not boastful. Confidence builds up from assured preparations. What should we do as a party that we have left undone? We don’t just say we are planning, we do the planning for every one to see and feel. Our preparation started from having a governorship candidate who, as the sitting Governor, has done so commendably well that praises and commendations come tumbling down on him from those who matter not only in Nigeria but across the world. The best preparation we have made for the party is the excellent performance of Governor Kayode Fayemi himself. Let me add that he is a promise keeper; he made promises and he had kept all of them. He has fulfilled all that he said he would do and for that we are very confident of the support of the people of the state.

The performance of Dr. Kayode Fayemi is a good foundation for us to build on. Secondly, we also have APC which is the happening party in Nigeria today. Let me repeat myself somehow, when you are at the top, you become the topic and as you can see, APC is the topic in Nigeria today.

The fear of APC is the beginning of wisdom.

APC is the party to beat and it is a party you cannot beat. So, we are there to serve the people well. People want to enjoy the dividend of democracy the way they are doing now. We started by identifying the develop-

ment needs of the people. In the first four years, we made developmental landmarks, now we are giving them the prospects and they want to continue to enjoy it. So, we are confident about our performance which will give us the stake, come June 21, 2014.

The APC has alleged that President Jonathan is planning to use federal might in the coming election in Ekiti.

Please throw more light on that?

We have all the evidences to prove that case and so it is not an allegation.

The President the other day accused some governors of abusing him, rather than focussing on the development of their states. But we know that it is the President who has been shortchanging the states. It was lately discovered that the federal government has been underpaying Ekiti to the tune of N500 million every month for the past six months. This is a policy of deliberate plans to stiffle enemy states with the ultimate scheme to underdevelop them, using the evil federal might. How do you develop when you are impoverished of the very tool -- capital -- with which to develop. Remember also that the Ekiti State Chairman of their party, the PDP, has said there is nothing wrong in using federal might in Ekiti. This is why they have been staying in Abuja. If they want to sneeze, Abuja; if they want to sleep, Abuja; if they want to eat, Abuja.

Anything, everything they want to do, Abuja. For the past two months, all those who call themselves aspirants have moved their very homes to Abuja. They so much believe in federal might. They think they can use force to enforce error in Ekiti in the coming election. But we in APC believe in the might of the people and the ultimate might of God. We are set to win the June 21 election and no robber, however stubborn and armed would be able to reverse the will of the people this time around.

But the opposition has criticised Fayemi for faking performance?

If by faking, we can drive on good roads today and the roads are certified for having the quality to last a minimum of 10 years; if by faking we have renovated all 18 secondary and one tertiary health institution in the state today; if by faking

• Dipe

we have sustained the payment of N5,000 monthly lifeline to 25,000 elderly individuals for two years; if by faking we have reconstructed and renovated all the 183 secondary schools across the 16 councils of the state; and many more compelling initiatives, including health, agriculture, tourism, job creation, and many more, then faking has indeed become a commendable and enobling act. With the faking, Fayemi has received the 2012 Leadership Governor of the Year and a one-time Justice of the World Court recently honoured him with the 2012 Senior Citizens Care Foundation Excellence Award. If these recognitions came with faking, let us just rally round and support Fayemi to continue to fake. I am sure by the time the Governor concludes his second four-year term, the so-called opposition would join the band to celebrate the achiever that he (Fayemi) is.

What are your fears as the election approaches?

Yes, we have fears regarding the unnecessary involvement of Abuja in the election. We notice the tendency to see the Ekiti election as an extension of next year presidential election. We are wary of the so-

called federal might and we have been saying that we should be allowed to do our thing in Ekiti. There shouldn’t be any intrusion that can create resistance from the people.

That is the only fear that we have. If it is the people going to the poll to cast their votes without any violence, we don’t have fears about that. If it is about votes and votes counting, we always say that election is not just about voting, it is about counting of the votes. If the votes are properly counted and properly announced, we don’t have fears about that. But, if there is intrusion of the ‘federal might’ and they are trying to create artificial crisis, we are concerned about that. So, we are warning that they should not turn Ekiti into a centre of violence. They should allow Ekiti people to vote for their own candidate.

But, the opposition has accused the APC of foisting violence in the state?

As you have rightly put it, they are accusations and so they would remain. Other parties would look for loopholes, gaps and gapes to criticise us. We are very conscious of that. We are the topic in terms of performance.

Everybody is seeing and everybody is hearing about our performance.

We are not leaving any stone unturned. The job of governance is going on. We are not politicising governance. We are governing well in Ekiti and luck is shining on us because the other political parties are not organised. Well, I would say they are entitled to their opinion. I should say it is the opposition that is behind the violence in the state. We know particularly that Mr. Opeyemi Bamidele, who defected from our party, has been trying to create crisis in the state. He has been trying to create artificial crisis in the state, so that he can latch on that. We assure the people of the state that Ekiti would continue to enjoy dividend of democracy under the administration of Dr. John Kayode Fayemi (JKF).

What do you mean when you say the opposition is not organised?

They are not only disorganised, they are upside down. They don’t seem to know their right from left and people don’t see them as serious also. Do your findings and you will know what I am saying. They just cannot get their acts

together at all. So, we are working and we are conscious of what we are doing.

What is your advice to the people?

My strong advice is that our members should always conduct themselves peacefully. We should always allow peace to reign. We should always look up to the government of the day as a performing government.

We should always trust the government. If it says it is going to do anything, we should always believe that it is going to do it. We should continue to enjoy the dividend of democracy. We should not get derailed. We should not go and try anything that we have not tested. We have tested APC and we have seen what APC is doing. We should not go about fighting ourselves; we are all Ekiti people who are one from Ilejemeje to Ado Ekiti and to the far corners of the state.

We are all homogenous people of Ekiti, we should not allow ourselves to be treated as thugs by anybody. We should allow APC to lead us well and continue to develop the state. The sky is our footstool; Ekiti will always come up to the top and rise to the challenges.

We should allow the government of the day to continue because it fulfils its promises to the people.

But, in some quarters, people are still complaining about the APC? We have a contract with the people that we would do A, B, C, D, E, F, G and H and we have done all that. What would they complain about? We are all human beings and we know that we cannot have it all. Even a wife in a house complains even after the husband might have fulfilled his promises. Every human being is an Oliver Twist. We know the people. Having seen a performing government and governor, they would always put in more requests. But we are equal to the task and having fulfilled the eightpoint agenda, the next thing is for us to move on and set another bar for ourselves and make sure we cross the hurdle. Where the people raised their concerns, let them build their hopes on a performing party. After all, we have had political parties in the past that people cannot even look forward to doing anything. So if they have APC that gives them things to enjoy, it is normal for them to say that they want more and we are ready to do more for them.

In this interview, Ekiti State Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Publicity Secretary Pastor Kola Oluwawole speaks with SULAIMAN SALAWUDEEN on the party’s preparation for the election.

‘PDP has what it takes to win’

• Oluwawole

H

OW far have you gone with preparations for the election?

Our preparations are in stages.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is displaying the voters list at the moment, for people to ensure that their names are in the list. They have started issuing permanent voters’ card. The second is the selection of the party’s candidate for the election. We are through with

the primaries. We are reaching out to our members, we are sensitising them, and we are keeping within the ambits of the law. We are following the timetable set by the INEC and we are following guidelines. Preparations are in high gear and we are very hopeful because this is an opportunity for us to win the election fair and square and we are leaving no stone unturned as we prepare. Records show that numerically, the PDP is stronger than other parties.

Howe can the PDP to unseat the APC in Ekiti?

We are fully prepared to dislodge Fayemi and his party, the APC come June 21. Our people have seen that PDP is the only party with the solution to their problems.

APC is just pretending. They go around doing asphalt overlays on the roads the PDPconstructed and they call that road construction. Majority of the people are tired of the Fayemi Administration and they are ready to dislodge him with the coming election.

What are you offering the people as an alternative?

Our stand is on better life for all.

Ours is not a pretender party. We understand the plight of the people and we are ready to offer it. Simple. If the election is truly one man one vote, we would defeat the uncaring government in Ekiti and institute a regime of care in the state, come June 21.

What makes you think the PDP would win the election?

PDP has what it takes to win the election. The party has a solid structure at the grassroots. Go to every local government, in every ward and in every unit in Ekiti State, PDP has structure and nobody can take that away from us. I challenge any other party that says its structure is better than that of the PDP. What are your chances of winning this election?

Given public perception of my party by the people of Ekiti State, we have won the election already. It is not a matter of thinking whether we have

chances of winning. We are not underrating any party also. Labour Party, Accord or APC. All the parties are strong. I don’t consider any party weak and some other strong. Some other parties may still come. We will soon know who is who.

The South Senatorial District is pushing for power shift, based on zoning. Don’t you think they have a legitimate claim?

I don’t know about the legitimacy of zoning. The party’s focus is on internal democracy. Every son and daughter of Ekiti has the right to contest the governorship, provided he or she has the requisite qualification to contest. It is politics for candidates to seek advantages and argue in ways that would favour them. But the party’s position remains supreme.

APC has alleged that President Goodluck Jonathan is interested in Ekiti and he is prepared to do anything to win Ekiti. What’s your comment on this?

Well I don’t know of such an allegation. APC is already afraid of

defeat. They can concoct any allegation. They are free to do that.

Mr. president is the president of the whole of Nigeria. It is not a president of PDP alone. His entire interest is the country and he would not do anything that would compromise that fact. It is the responsibility of INEC to ensure free and fair elections.

I am telling you nobody is leaving PDP for any other party in Ekiti. Those you think are leaving the party have never really been members if our party. They came from somewhere and just returned where they came.

APC has said that the membership strength of its party is 300,000, a figure arrived at after the membership registration drive. What is the strength of the PDP? PDP has always been the most numerically strong party. We won’t deceive people through any fake membership drive. We are solidly on ground in all the electoral wards of the state. On the Election Day, APC’s 300,000 or what do you say would not have much to avail them.

THE NATION MONDAY, APRIL 14, 2014

49

THE NATION MONDAY, APRIL 14, 2014

50 USEFUL PHONE NUMBERS ON ANY EMERGENCY

Council endorsed the useful phone numbers submitted by the agents for easy access in case of any emergency on the metropolitan Roads. The public may easily contact KAROTA for breakdown of vehicle(s), traffic congestion, accidents, and illegal/wrong parking on – 08091626747. Similarly, the State Police Command could be contacted on – 08032419754, and 08123821575. In addition, the State Fire Service can also be contacted on – 07051246833, and 08191778888.

Daily Domestic flights in Kano. Aero- abuja and Lagos 8.30am and 6.50 pm Everyday. Arik Kano-Abuja 9 am 4.50 pm Mon-Friday. Lagos Sun-Friday 8pm

144TH KANO STATE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL MEETING PREPARED BY COUNCIL AFFAIRS DIRECTORATE, OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY TO THE STATE GOVERNMENT, GOVERNMENT HOUSE, KANO.

T

oday Wednesday 9th April, 2014 (9th Jumada Akhir, 1435 AH) Governor Engr. Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, FNSE presided over the one hundred and forty-fourth (144th) sitting of the Kano State Executive Council.

As in the previous sittings, sustenance of the main preoccupation of the “Kwankwasiyya Model” of administration was maintained.

Policies/projects/programmes were deliberated upon with the sole aim of improving the socio – economic wellbeing of the citizens.

The superlative performance towards the positive transformation of all sectors is discernible if the efforts of the present day Government in Kano State are holistically viewed from an unbiased vintage point. Confident and sure of this, the Kano State Executive Council forged ahead and deliberated upon the forty-three (43) memoranda submitted from eight (8) MDAs of which twenty-five (25) were approved for execution with an expenditure of Six Hundred and Fifty Four Million, Three Hundred and Fifty One Thousand, Five Hundred and Forty Seven Naira, Seventy Four Kobo (N654,351,547.74) covering thirteen (13) projects. The rest (12) were on policy issues or informative.

MINISTRY OF HIGHER EDUCATION Five (5) memoranda were submitted for deliberation by Council from the Ministry of Higher Education. Three (3) of them were approved for execution. Thus: a) Presentation of Information Memorandum (IM) on the Selection of Sa’adatu Rimi College of Education, Kumbotso as National Committee Member of West Africa Examination Council (WAEC):The Honourable Commissioner, Ministry of Higher Education respectfully notified Council, through the contents of this memorandum that the Nigeria National Commission of WAEC selected Sa’adatu Rimi College of Education Kumbotso as a representative of all Colleges of Education in Nigeria among members of its Nigeria National Committee for a two (2) – year term effective from March, 2014.

Council was proudly informed that the Nigeria National Committee of WAEC is its highest decision making organ and the selection of Sa’adatu Rimi College of Education, Kumbotso is an attestation of the exalted position of the College and Kano State in recognition of the achievements recorded toward the upliftment of Education under the leadership of Governor Engr. Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, FNSE. Details were presented to Council for consideration.

Council acknowledged the presentation appreciatively. c) Request for Funds to Enable the Accreditation of Some Courses and Renovation of Existing Structures at Audu Bako College of Agriculture Dambatta:Council was reminded of its approval granted for the transfer of Audu Bako College of Agriculture Dambatta to Kano University of Science and Technology (KUST), Wudil as the Faculty for Agricultural Studies so as to commence awarding degree certificates. Concurrently, the recommendation to Council for approval to continue utilizing the existing structures/facilities at the existing site of the College to offer courses leading to the award of National Diploma (ND) and Higher Diploma (HND) was approved.

As such, Council was requested to approve the release of the aggregate sum of N96,000,000.00 to the College to enable the smooth implementation of the transfer and continuation of utilization of the structures/facilities at the existing site of the College. The money is to be expended on the improvement of facilities for the accreditation of some courses by the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) and general renovation of dilapidated structures and facilities at the existing site of Audu Bako College of Agriculture Dambatta. Council approved the request.

•

The Draft MoU was vetted by the Kano State Ministry of Justice and endorsed by the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, Cooperatives and Tourism as assented by the State Government.

•

Required structures/facilities were provided by the Ministry of Works, Housing and Transport for the immediate take–off of operations of the Center.

Council acknowledged the presentation with appreciation.

b) Presentation of Request for Funds to Enable the Implementation of 2014 Malaria Annual Operational Plan:The Ministry of Health submitted the cited request to Council for consideration. Details of the requirements cost the aggregate sum of N3,768,000,000.00 for the overall activities of the 2014 Malaria Annual Operational Plan (AOP) were presented to Council for consideration. However, the Kano State Government was expected to contribute only N850,000,000.00 while the Development Partners supporting Malaria Control effort in the State contribute N2,918,000,000.00. Council appreciatively acknowledged the presentation. c) Request for Funds to Enable the Provision of Educational Assistance to Abdulkadir Abdussalam:The Kano State Ministry of Higher Education complied with an Executive Directive to appraise and re–submit the cited request for consideration by Council. The applicant was confirmed as indigenous to Kano State who secured admission to undergo a course of study for the award of MSc. Certificate on Projects Management at Robert Gordon University, Aberdeen, United Kingdom.

He solicited for assistance from the Kano State Government for the release of 50% of his registration fees for the course to the tune of N1,242,000.00 up to completion.

Congruence of the request to the empowerment policy of the present administration prompted Council to approve the release of the requested sum of N1,242,000.00 to the Ministry of Higher Education to enable the provision of the requested educational assistance to Abdulkadir Abdussalam. d) Presentation of the Communiqué and other Documents from the Northern Governors’ Forum Convened on 17th February, 2014:The Northern Governors’ Forum convened at Presidential Lodge, General Hassan Katsina House, Kawo, Kaduna on 17th February, 2014.

The meeting deliberated on topical issues of national concern, especially those of concern and particular bearing on the socio– economic development of the North. Specifically, Council was notified that eight (8) main issues were deliberated upon, which include the following: i.

Security situation in the North. ii.

Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation. iii.

New Nigeria Development Company (NNDC). iv.

The National Conference. v.

Multiple taxation on agricultural produce along the high ways in the Country. vi.

The Almajiri phenomenon. vii.

Contribution to OMBATSE victims. viii.

Nigeria Centenary Celebrations.

Council appreciatively acknowledged the details of the deliberations presented on each topical issue.

OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY TO THE STATE GOVERNMENT Fifteen (14) memoranda were submitted for deliberation by Council from the Office of the Secretary to the State Government on behalf of the Chairman and some MDAs. Six (6) of them were approved for execution as follows:

f) Presentation of Modalities for the Regularization of Undocumented Titles in Kano State and Request for Funds for its Implementation:The present administration assigned the authorities at Kano Geographic Informatics System (KANGIS) to immediately formalize the existence of all houses/business premises in the State through the issuance of Certificates of Occupancy (C of O).

To effectively carry out the assignment, KANGIS submitted the cited presentation along with the request for the release of the sum of N32,574,060.00 to cover the procurement of working materials/ equipment. Details were presented for consideration. Council approved the request.

a) Presentation of Notification of the Execution of an MoU Between the CBN and Kano State Government on the “Domestication” of the Northwest Zonal Office of the CBN’s Entrepreneurship Development Center (EDC) in Kano State: The Secretary to the State Government submitted an update on the issue cited for consideration by Council on behalf of the State Ministry of Commerce, Industry, Cooperatives and Tourism.

Details on the history and genesis of the MoU were presented to Council for consideration. Final updates on related developments were presented as follows:

2.

OFFICE OF THE HEAD OF CIVIL SERVICE The four (4) memoranda submitted for deliberation by Council from the Office of the Head of Civil Service were approved for execution as follows: a) Request for Funds to Enable the Payment of 2014 Books Allowance in Respect of 289 Kano State Indigenous Medical Students Sponsored for Studies on Bond in Various Universities in Nigeria:The cited request was submitted from the Kano State Hospitals Management Board, which was endorsed and presented to Council for consideration by the Head of Civil Service. Council was tacitly

1.

Rabi’u Musa Kwankawaso reminded of its approval granted for the Kano State Government to implement and maintain sponsoring all eligible medical students indigenous to Kano State effective from their 400 Level of studies by placing them on salary GL 07/1 in addition to the payment of books allowances to the tune of N51,243.60 annually to each of them under the bonding arrangement coordinated by the Office of the Head of Civil Service.

As such, Council was requested to approve the release of the aggregate sum of N14,809,400.00 to enable the payment of the books allowances for the year 2014 to the two hundred and eighty-nine (289) bonded Kano State Indigenous Medical Students.

The details presented were summarized as follows: • 400 Level Students –157 x N51,243.60 = N8,045,245.20.

• 500 Level Students – 67 x N51,243.60 = N3,433,321.20.

• 600 Level Students – 65 x N51,243.60 = N3,330,843.00 Total= 289 Students at N51,243.60 = N14,809,400.40.

Council noted, considered and approved as requested. b) Request for Funds to Enable Upward Review of Weigh – in – Allowance for Media and Cultural Workers in the Kano State:The Head of Civil Service substantiated to Council, through the contents of this memorandum that 658 staff work under five (5) media and cultural establishments under the services of Kano State Government. They Include: • Kano State Ministry of Information, Internal Affairs, Youths, Sports and Culture.

• Abubakar Rimi Television (ARTV).

• Kano State Radio Corporation.

• History and Culture Bureau.

• Kano State Censorship Board.

Further, Council was informed that two (2) categories of staff work in the five (5) media and cultural establishments in the State. They comprise operational and non–operational staff.

Importantly, the cited request was presented to Council as a long standing issue and the demand was from the Radio, Television, Theatre and Arts Workers Union (RATTAWU) of Nigeria, which requested for an upward review of the weigh – in – allowances for the media and cultural workers in Kano State as follows: i.

Operational staff – 17.5% to be reviewed upward to 35%. ii.

Non – operational staff– 10% to be reviewed upward to 20%.

The total monthly financial implications to the tune of N5,877,803.96 for the upward review of the weigh–in– allowances for 658 media and cultural workers under the service of the State was presented to Council for consideration. Council noted, considered and approved the release of 50% of the requested sum or N2,938,901.98 monthly for the stated purpose. c) Presentation of Report on the Recruitment of 420 Different Categories of Centrally Controlled Staff Conducted by the Office of the Head of Civil Service Between 2008–2010:The contents of this memorandum presented adequate details on what transpired on the issue cited for consideration by Council along with forwarding of the following two (2) prayers: i.

Approval should be granted for the formalization of the appointments of the 420 staff with effect from their initial (first) dates of appointments. ii.

Approval should be granted for the reversion of staff wrongfully placed/graded among the 420 to ranks/salary grade levels commensurate with their educational qualifications with effect from their initial (first) dates of appointment.

Council acknowledged the presentation and approved the execution of the two (2) prayers forwarded on the cited issue by the Office of the Head of Civil Service.

3.

MINISTRY OF WORKS, HOUSING AND TRANSPORT Five (5) of the ten (10) memoranda submitted for deliberations by Council from this Ministry were approved for execution as follows: a) Request for Funds to Enable the Installation of Streetlights from Mandawari to Kwanar Goda (750m) using Newly Fabricated Poles:The provisions of required infrastructure/beautification/upgrading the aesthetic value/status of metropolitan Kano are among the

THE NATION MONDAY, APRIL 14, 2014 commendable preoccupations of the present administration in Kano State. Installation of streetlights is prominent along major streets in the metropolis.

The cited location was identified to benefit the laudable endeavour for which the Kano State Ministry of Works, Housing and Transport presented a request for the sum of N13,342,876.50 to enable the installation of the required streetlights at the cited location. The request was approved. b) Request for Funds to Enable the Installation of Streetlights Along Sabuwar Kofa Road (750m) Using Newly Fabricated Poles:Cognizant of the resolve by the present administration in Kano State to provide the necessary infrastructure for use by the citizenry instigated the Ministry of Works, Housing and Transport to identify and present the cited location for the installation of streetlights for a distance of 750m at the sum of N13,836,976.50.

Congruence of the request with the urban beautification policy of the present administration prompted Council to approve as requested. c) Presentation of Progress Report on the Installation of Streetlights within Kano Metropolis as at March, 2014:The Kano State Ministry of Works, Housing and Transport submitted a comprehensive progress report on the execution of the installation of street lighting along twenty-four (24) roads/ locations within Kano Metropolis. The details were summarized and presented to Council for information and records. Thus:

51 Twenty-four (24) roads/locations were installed with lighting with the progress of work as follows:

direct labour. Council noted, considered and approved the release of the requested sum.

•

Eight (8) roads/locations = 100% completion = N138,342.045.00

•

Three (3) roads/locations = 95% completion = N238,140,726.90

b) Request for Funds to Enable Connecting the Corporate Security Institute, Zakirai, Gabasawa to the National Grid of PHCN and Provision/Installation of 300KVA, 11/0.415 KV Electricity Transformer at the School of Hygiene Kano:-

•

One (1) roads/locations = 85% completion = N95,709,249.70

•

Two (2) roads/locations = 75% completion = N353,424,501.10

•

Two (2) roads/locations = 60% completion = N77,861,673.80

•

One (1) roads/locations = 55% completion

•

Four (4) roads/locations = 45% completion = N463,448,164.80

•

One (1) roads/locations = 40% completion

= N17,383,913.40

Council considered the relevance of the project, appraised the request and approved the release of the trimmed down sum of N13,868,079.39 for the project.

•

One (1) roads/locations = _

= N6,413,339.70

MINISTRY OF HEALTH

•

One (1) roads/locations = 50% completion = _

= N81,424,459.10

Total = Twenty-four (24) roads/locations = N1,462,148,063.50.

Council appreciatively acknowledged the presentation. a) Request for Funds to Enable Payment for Diesel Consumed by MDAs in the Month of February, 2014:As custodian and centrally designated supplier of fuel to MDAs, the Ministry of Works, Housing and Transport submitted the cited request to enable payment for diesel supplied to ten (10) MDAs for the Month of February, 2014. Appropriate receipts covering the aggregate sum of N10,175,000.00 were presented to Council for consideration and approval. The routine nature and purpose of the request prompted Council to approve as requested. b) Presentation of Report in Respect of Contract Awarded for the Construction of 1.8km Kofar Ruwa – Kansakali Road:The Honourable Commissioner, Ministry of Works, Housing and Transport notified Council through the contents of this memorandum that the cited Contract was awarded by the Dala Local Government Council at the sum of N93,160,421.97.

Experts from the Ministry of Works, Housing and Transport were instructed to inspect the project site. The assignment was carried out and findings were satisfactory while the Contractor promised to complete the entire project in three (3) weeks. Relevant photographs from the project site were presented to Council for perusal. Council acknowledged the presentation appreciatively.

OFFICE OF THE DEPUTY GOVERNOR/HONOURABLE COMMISSIONER, MINISTRY FOR LOCAL GOVERNMENTS Council deliberated upon the five (5) memoranda submitted from this Office and approved only one (1) of them for execution whilst the rest were directed to be handled administratively. The approved memorandum for execution was as follows: Request for Funds to Enable the Payment of Three (3) Months (February, March and April, 2014) Salaries to Kano Pillars Football Club Players and Technical Crew Pending Approval of the Clubs Budget for the Year 2014:The Players and Technical Crew of the Kano Pillars Football Club survived for three (3) months without salaries due to the non– existence of functional budgetary provision for the purpose. The accrued payments were computed to the tune of N52,568,397.00, which was requested for release by Council pending the expenditure’s reflection in the club’s budgetary provision for the year 2014.

The Honourable Commissioner, Ministry of Rural and Community Development amply substantiated to Council, through the contents of this memorandum, the need for the execution of the cited project. The scope of works was assessed by the Kano State Rural Electrification Board to the tune of N14,008,161.00 oncontractual basis.

Request for Funds to Enable the Construction of Additional Structures and Landscaping at the Permanent Site of Kano State Drug and Medical Consumables Supply Agency Complex, Kwanar Kwankwaso, Madobi LGCA:The cited request was considered expedient by the Kano State Ministry of Health in order to ensure the achievement of the envisaged goal of according a befitting status for the appropriately relocated facility. The scope of works involve the provision of two additional warehouses, supply of 500KVA transformers/ distribution, landscaping works, construction of mosque and 2 VIP latrines, and maintenance of workshop at the total sum of N151,245,115.57. Council approved the request.

UPDATE ON ACTIVITIES OF THE 144TH EXCO- SITTING INDUCTION COURSE/WORKSHOP CONDUCTED BY THE OFFICE OF THE HEAD OF CIVIL SERVICE KANO Council happily acknowledged the conduct of the cited event and the inclusion of the 1004 Newly Employed youths in the exercise.

The participants were taught the basics idea of Public Administration and the Civil Service Rules and Regulations. During the occasion, the participants expressed their appreciation to Governor Engr. Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, FNSE for the workshop.

MEETING ON PEACEFUL CO-EXISTENCE WITH ULAMA CHAIRED BY GOVERNOR ENGR. RABI’U MUSA KWANKWASO, FNSE Council witnessed a meeting on Peaceful Co-existence in the State with the Ulama. In his welcome address on Thursday 3rdApril, 2014 (3rdJumadaThani, 1435AH) Governor Engr. Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, FNSE expressed appreciation for Ulama support to the administration. During the meeting, the Governoremphasized the need for peaceful co-existence among the Muslim Ummah and the Christians neighbors. He also called for tolerance among Muslim groups, and the need to forget differences and share common value. He reminded the Muslim and Christian communities to pray for peace and stability of the country.

Further, the Governor outlined some of the successes achieved by his administration in areas to do with the promotion of religion and the benefit of humanity in general such as: i.

Government set aside the sum of N220,000,000.00 for the renovation of Friday Mosques across the 44 LGCAs.

ii.

Kano State Government embarked on the renovation of graveyards (i.e. fencing and installation of lights) across the State.

iii.

Government had conducted census for all Islamiyya pupils in the State for proper educational planning.

iv.

In order to protect and guard the privacy and sanctity of women, the administration sponsored 145 female students for studies abroad to specialize in medicine and other related health subjects.

Both memoranda submitted for deliberation by Council from this Ministry were approved for execution as follows:

v.

a) Request for Approval to Relocate/Replace the Electric Poles along Old BUK Road from Kofar Famfo to Kofar Dan’ Agundi and Release of Funds for the Purpose:-

In order to live with one another peacefully, this administration made a giant stride towards carrying different religious groups along in all activities of the State.

vi.

Implementation of the laudable policy on the Mass Wedding of Zawarawa and Spinsters across the State comprising both Muslims and Christians.

Council considered the negative implications and immediately approved the release of the requested sum of N52,568,397.00 to the Kano Pillars Football Club to pay the salaries of its players and technical crew for the months of February, March and April, 2014 pending approval of the Club’s budget by the Ministry for the year 2014.

MINISTRY OF RURAL AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

The commendable resolve to provide infrastructure and maintain it for use by the citizenry in Kano State was applauded as one of the laudable achievements of the present administration. The myriad of road construction, renovation, maintenance projects in progress necessitate the removal/relocation/replacement of electric poles along such roads. The cited road/location was identified as requiring the relocation/replacement of the electric poles which were removed due to the renovation project in progress.

The scope of works required was assessed by the Kano State Rural Electrification Board (REB) to the tune of N6,140,525.00, which was requested for release to enable the execution of the project on

PRESENTATION OF AWARD TO THE GOVERNOR ENGR. RABI’U MUSA KWANKWASO, FNSE Council witnessed the presentation of an award to the Governor in recognition of his educational support from the sixty (58) sponsored students presently studying in Ukraine.

Signed: Hon. Commissioner, Information, Internal Affairs, Youth, Sports & Culture, Kano State

52

THE NATION MONDAY, APRIL 14, 2014

53

THE NATION MONDAY APRIL 14, 2014

NEWS

‘Sylva credible to lead Bayelsa APC’

T

HE All Progressives Congress (APC) in Bayelsa State has said former Governor Timipre Sylva is credible to lead the party.

The party’s interim Chairman, Tiwe Oruminighe, who spoke in Yenagoa, dispelled insinuations that the party would collapse, if Sylva remained its leader.

Oruminighe said those leading such campaign were members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who were regretting the loss of a great politician like Sylva.

He said the former governor was the brains behind

From Mike Odiegwu, Yenagoa

the solid foundation of the PDP in the state, adding that PDP had begun to fret over his absence.

He said Sylva’s leadership has started attracting people to APC, adding that many PDP members will join the opposition.

“Sylva is very credible to lead APC in the state. Someone who has governed a state, if he is not credible why is he a leader? He is very credible and that is why the party is making progress,” the chairman said.

Oruminighe, who was a

former Chairman of Southern Ijaw Local Government Area, claimed that APC will form the next government in 2016.

On why he was confident of victory, he said: “Everybody knows we are on ground. When we were in PDP, we won the elections for PDP. We are grassroot politicians. We are serious and in the different levels we have served, we served the people very well.”

Oruminighe assured members that the party would ensure internal democracy.

He said the ultimate aim of the party was to guarantee equity and fairness to enable

anyone aspire to any political position.

“Sylva is the leader of this party no doubt. I am interim chairman but the party is built on equity and fairness.

We are trying to create a party where everybody will have platform to play politics,” he said.

The chairman said the party has good rapport with security agencies in the state, adding that such existing relationship was the reason why the party postponed its ward congresses, which coincided with the day President Goodluck Jonathan visited the state.

Agumagu’s lawyer faults reports of court proceedings

R

IVERS State Chief Judge’s lawyer Akin Olujinmi (SAN) has faulted reports that Justice Adeniyi Ademola of the Federal High Court, Abuja denied granting an order staying the suspension of his client, Justice Peter Agumagu.

Olujinmi, former Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), in a letter dated April 11, complained about what he described as the “misrepresentation of what happened in court on April 10”.

He said the issue of suspension did not feature in the proceedings and that the judge “denied nothing.”

Justice Agumagu was suspended by the National Judicial Council (NJC), after which he went to court to challenge the NJC’s decision.

Sued with the NJC are Justices Babatunde Adejumo, Jubril Idris and Comwell Ida-

•Says judge denied nothing on suspension From Eric Ikhilae, Abuja

hosa, who are chairman and members of the panel, set up by the NJC to investigate allegations against him.

The court, on March 31, heard an ex-parte application by the applicant, and granted some of the prayers contained in it.

The applicant’s lawyer later wrote the NJC, informing it about the orders granted by the court.

The case came up on April 10 and it was reported on the second day that the judge said he did not grant an order staying Justice Agumagu’s suspension and proceeded to clarify the orders he granted.

In his letter, Olujinmi said: “Nothing happened in the proceedings, which warranted a denial of anything by Justice Ademola and indeed,

his Lordship denied nothing.

“There was no letter produced in the court which carried any such suggestion. Indeed, nothing turned on the letter throughout the proceedings of the day.”

A certified true copy of the court’s proceedings of April 10, signed by Justice Ademola and the court’s Registrar, O. A. Akpan, said: “That leave is hereby granted to the applicant to apply for judicial review by way of an order of certiorari, prohibition, declaration and injunction in the terms and on the grounds set out in the statement accompanying this application.

“That an order of this court is made directing the first respondent (NJC) to produce and file in this court, a certified true copy of the minutes of its emergency meeting

•Justice Agumagu

held on March 26, containing the decisions taken concerning the applicant, which decisions the applicant is seeking an order of certiorari to quash.

“The grant of leave shall operate as a stay of proceedings or any further actions by the respondents in respect of the investigation of the applicant for which the first respondent has set up the panel of the second to fourth respondents, until the hearing of the substantive application for judicial review.”

A

A

MAN identified as Steve has been killed in a gas explosion at 2, Aruosa Street, Benin City, Edo State.

Steve, who owned a gas shop, was blown up few hours after he opened for business yesterday.

The blast, which shattered his limbs, caused panic in the area as bureau de change dealers, passers-by and residents scampered to safety.

One of Steve’s neighbours,

‘Ibori did not benefit from V-Mobile’ client’s account.

Krolic said: “During the submission on V-Mobile, only the name of Ibori’s former solicitor and his former Commissioner of Finance, respectively reverberated in the court; Ibori’s name was never mentioned and the court records are there to prove me right.”

He insisted that Ibori only approved documents relating to V-Mobile.

Krolic also told the court that even when a financial forensic expert was invited to

the court and was cross-examined by both the defence and the prosecuting teams, there was no trace of Delta State money that Ibori could have benefitted from.

He added: “The case is so clear because the forensic expert dealt with the issue of Delta State money in great detail and nothing there indicted Ibori or linked him as to having benefited from Delta state funds in any way.”

Krolick reminded the court that the case has changed from the concluded one and

the new one is now a ‘pure law’ of money laundering.

He said confiscation trial, which is totally different from the concluded one where Ibori pleaded guilty to some charges, is a quantitative case and that he once pleaded guilty is not enough for confiscation.

“It is on record that we have stated this stance before, I repeat, we said no then. I am saying no again. And this is not being ambushed.”

The matter resumes this week.

From Osemwengie Ben Ogbemudia, Benin City

who pleaded for anonymity, said: “This is a very sad day for us because Steve was a good man.

“When we heard the loud noise, we thought it was Boko Haram. People started running up and down.

“Shortly after, we saw Steve’s body few metres away from his shop. He was taken to the Central Hospital, where he died.”

Army denies killing APC member

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From Osemwengie Ben Ogbemudia, Benin

HE 4 Brigade, Edo State, denied yesterday that a soldier killed an All Progressives Congress (APC) member, Matthew Adams, at Ward 8, Ekiadolor in Ovia North East Local Government Area.

The Brigade’s spokesman, Capt Abubakar Abdulahi, said: “We heard of the incident but we have checked our personnel deployed to the state’s Operation Thunderstorm.

“We have checked all the ammunition with their serial numbers and we found all of them complete.

“So the allegation that our men killed someone is not true and we have not received any report of engagement from our men.”

The Okao of Isiwa, Dr Samuel Aibueku, said: “A man called soldiers who came in a Hilux Van 028, they came to the APC ward congress and started shooting.

“Before we knew it somebody was on the ground and the boy is from Uniaro village. The soldiers ran away after the shooting. We are not known to be violent; this is a new trend in our area.”

Eight ‘drug traffickers’ convicted

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HE National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Akwa Ibom State, said yesterday that eight persons had been convicted between January and March for dealing in prohibited drugs.

The State Commander, Mrs. Josephine Obi, said some of the convicted persons had been to prison for the same offence.

She attributed the suc-

From Kazeem Ibrahym, Uyo

cesses recorded in the raids and destruction of drug joints to the increased trained manpower in the command.

“The most important thing about our work is that we are saving lives. We have saved hundreds of thousands of lives by the amount of drugs we are withdrawing from the society daily.”

‘Govt stopped our inauguration’

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•Bayelsa State Governor Seriake Dickson (right) congratulating Commissioner for Trade, Industry and Investment Kemela Okara after his swearing in at the Government House, Yenagoa.

LONDON Crown Court has heard that former Delta State governor James Ibori did not receive any financial benefits from V-Mobile (now Airtel).

During last Friday’s proceedings in the London confiscation case against the former governor, his lead counsel, Mr. Ivan Krolic (QC) said there was no evidence linking Ibori to the £37 million V-Mobile money.

The lawyer said there was no proof that the money, or part of it, was paid into his

One killed in Edo gas explosion

From Kazeem Ibrahym, Uyo

LDERS of Ikono/Ini Federal Constituency have accused the Akwa Ibom State government of stopping the inauguration of a socio-political organisation, Ntippe Ibibio.

The elders, led by Senator Aloysius Etok, Obong Bassey Inuaeyen, Dr Clement Bassey and Chief Ibanga Udoh-Akpan at a briefing yesterday, said 30 truck-loads of policemen and soldiers prevented the inauguration from taking place.

Etok said: “The stopping of the inauguration by security agencies was an attack on democracy.

“What we want to know is what have we done wrong to deserve this? We are not antagonising anybody? What do we use to antagonise the person?

“We don’t have the resources. Do we have development?

Do we have road that if anything happens we would run back to Ikono/Ini? As at today,Ikono doesn’t have one road constructed by this government.

“We want our people to remain calm. The will of the people shall prevail. You can stop the inauguration but you cannot stop the will of the people. You can’t stop their focus.

"We must inaugurate Nitppe Ibibio socio-political organisation in Ikono/Ini land as soon as we put together all the logistics. If what transpired yesterday happens again, at that point we will be all ready to die.

"At that point, because you cannot stop us if you cannot remember us in development why should you remember us now and concerned yourself with how and where we go and live our lives."

The elders also said they were not planning to take out the people of Ikono/Ini Federal Constituency from Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District.

The Commissioner for Information, Aniekan Umanah, advised the elders to stop attacking the government.

"It is so unfortunate that the elders’ argument doesn't hold water. If anything, the elders should face their monarchs, who claimed that the inauguration of the Ntippe Ibibio is an embarrassment.The elders should face issues and stop calling names.

"Even if the elders are denied the hall, it is the duty of the local government chairman as the chief security of the area to grant or deny anybody access. How does that concerns the governor or the government?"

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THE NATION MONDAY APRIL 14, 2014

NEWS Five killed in boat mishap From Jide Orintunsin, Minna

FOUR men and a woman got drowned at the weekend, when a boat conveying them capsized on River Egah in Edati Local Government Area of Niger State.

The Sofanla-bound boat hit a rock before it capsized, few minutes after it left Gbanchi village.

It was gathered that the casualty figure would have been higher but for the intervention of some fishermen and villagers, who launched a search.

An eyewitness, Iliyasu Gambo, said: “The passengers would not have drowned, if they wore life jackets.”

Police spokesman Richard Oguche confirmed the accident.

He gave the names of the victims as Baba Mohammed, Abu Yaba, Audu Saidu, Jibrin Mohammed and Aisha Usman.

Troops recover arms, livestock in Kaduna, Plateau

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MILITARY assault on camps of armed militia men in Kaduna and Plateau states has led to the recovery of arms and stolen livestock, the Defence Headquarters said yesterday.

A statement by Defence spokesman Maj-Gen Chris Olukolade said military operations in Dahia Luka, Makera and some communities in Plateau and Kaduna states resulted in the arrest of three men.

The statement said over 90

From Gbade Ogunwale, Assistant Editor, Abuja

cows and 45 sheep, believed to have been rustled, were recovered.

Fifty other cows have also been recovered from rustlers, who attacked herdsmen in another location.

“The cows have been handed over to the traditional rulers in the area while the arrested armed men are still being interrogated.

“The herdsmen, who were injured by the rustlers are

also being treated.

“Six rifles, 25 dane guns and 10 locally fabricated pistols as well as four revolvers were recovered in the two states.

“Cordon and search of identified locations have also continued.

“In the process, various rifle parts as well as empty ammunition boxes were recovered in Shendam, Yelwa and in the house of a suspected arms dealer at the boundary between Plateau and Taraba states.

“The arrested suspects are among those being interrogated by the Special Task Force.

“One of the suspects arrested on the outskirts of Jos is helping with information on his links with terrorists operating in other parts of the country.

“The counter terrorists’ campaign in the Northeast has continued; identified terrorists’ make-shift camps are being dislodged in air and land raids.

Church holds men’s conference

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NSCDC arrests impersonator From Ahmed Rufa’I, Dutse

THE Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Jigawa State has arrested a man, Ifeanyi Eze, for allegedly impersonating his wife in last Saturday’s Joint Admission and Matriculation (JAMB) Examination.

A statement by the commandant, Muhammed Gidado, said the suspect was arrested at the Lautai Science Secondary School, Gumel Centre.

Eze, a doctor, works at the Gumel General Hospital.

Gidado said: “After the screening, our officials were going round the hall when they discovered that the picture on the examination slip was that of a woman while a man was writing the examination.

“In the course of the investigation, we discovered he is a doctor.

His wife was not around, so we can not confirm if she is truly his wife or not.”

PUBLIC NOTICE DALOEK

I formerly known and addressed as Miss Eunice Kyale Daloek, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Eunice Kyale Managdong. All former documents remain valid. Plateau State Polytechnic and General Public Should please take note.

PUBLIC NOTICE OYEKOLA

I formerly known and addressed as MISS OYEKOLA ADENIKE ADEWUMI , now wish to be known and addressed as MRS AFOLAMI ADENIKE ADEWUMI. All former documents remain valid. General Public Should please take note.

PUBLIC NOTICE BENSON

I formerly known and addressed as MISS BENSON DORCAS EDITH , now wish to be known and addressed as MRS ONEN DORCAS EDITH. All former documents remain valid.

Nigeria Police Force and general Public Should please take note.

“Armed terrorists have continued to attack travellers on highways, especially between Maiduguri-Damboa Road and Gwoza-Bama Highway.

Others make occasional attacks on surrounding villages, looting food items.

“Some have been attacking soft targets in Borno and Yobe states apparently in retaliation for casualties incurred by their camps.

“Troops also repelled a weekend attack on Bunu Gari Market and no life was lost.

“Troops have been directed to maintain the aggressive patrols of the local communities to complement the assault on the terrorists.”

Delta State Deputy Governor, Prof Amos Utuama (middle) leading the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Richard MofeDamijo,(left), Works Commissioner Solomon Funkekeme, Commissioner for Special Duties (Infrastructure), Mrs Oreizi Esievo and the Transition Chairman of Udu Local Government, Raymond Edijala on an inspection of the ongoing sanitation exercise in Udu council area.

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Kwara APC, PDP bicker over N23b bond

HE All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Kwara State are bickering over plans by the government to access N23 billion from the capital market.

The PDP accused the government of embarking on endless bond sourcing with no genuine reasons, “all with the motives of impoverishing and liquidating the state’s financial base”.

But the government described PDP’s accusation as an attempt to incite public disaffection through mischief and disinformation.

A statement by the Senior Special Assistant (media) to Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed, Muideen Akorede, described

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From Adekunle Jimoh, Ilorin

the PDP’s criticism of government policies as the latest in a futile campaign of fallacy and mischief against a high-performing government.

“The PDP is either completely out of touch with reality or plainly ignorant of public sector finance. It is obvious to all but the mischievous that Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed has remained highperforming since inception through life-transforming programmes.

“Contrary to the PDP’s ignorant claim that the Kwara State government has taken out two bond issues, the government actually revised the earlier planned bond value

from N30billion to N23billion having identified alternative means of funding identified projects internally.

“To educate the PDP, the planned bond will actually reduce government’s expenditure on debt servicing and free up funds for additional lifetransforming projects and programmes as existing liabilities are restructured.

The Ahmed administration is committed to enhancing the lives of its people and refuses to be distracted by the antics of a diminished party.

“Like the previous efforts to discredit the populist Ahmed administration, the PDP’s latest mischief has failed.”

The PDP caretaker committee chair, Solomon Edojah,

said: “Once again, it is obvious that the state under the leadership of APC cannot achieve anything meaningful without approaching either money or capital markets for bonds which will eventually spread on the periods that will even out-leave them in government.

“To be precise, Kwarans in their large numbers said in a very loud ovation that they are tired of governance without probity, adequacy and transparency.

“PDP urges Kwarans not to relent in their perseverance and steadfastness even in the face of intimidation towards ensuring the freedom of the state from all sorts of financial bondage and slavery.”

Lawmaker to Adamawa PDP: no violence

HE Chairperson of the House of Representatives Committee on Constituency Outreach, Hajiya Aishatu Dahiru Ahmed (Binani), has urged members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Adamawa State to reunite for the 2015 poll.

She also urged party leaders and members to avoid politics of hatred or attack against other parties.

The lawmaker said although Governor Murtala Nyako belongs to the All Progressives Congress (APC), PDP members should respect him and avoid partisan politics, which could disrupt the peace.

Hajiya Ahmed, who gave the advice during a visit to the PDP Chairman in Adamawa State, Joel Madaki, said she has no plan to defect to any party.

A statement from her office said: “I have come here to plead with our members to

From Yusuf Alli, Abuja

remain united and work for the progress of PDP in 2015.

“I want to appeal to the former members of the State Executive Committee to partner the new leaders to move the party forward.

“Although the former SEC leaders have been supplanted by the new team, let us forgive and forget the past. This is the time to heal wounds.

“I urge the new executive to be large hearted in accommodating past members of the SEC. And if there is any vacancy, please try to integrate past leaders.

“I hope that as from today, we would turn a new leaf and put the PDP in good shape for the coming poll.”

On alleged plans to leave PDP, she said: “I have no intention of defecting because this party made me what I am today.

“I also hold the party total loyalty.

“It is a great opportunity to be the first elected woman member of the House of Representatives from this state, I owe the PDP a lot and I will continue to do my best to uplift the party.”

Hajiya Ahmed, however, warned PDP members against attacks on Governor Murtala Nyako, who has joined APC. She added: “We should not attack Nyako because when he was in PDP, he gave some of us the opportunity to be what we are now.

“Without Nyako, I will not be standing here to address you as a lawmaker.

“The governor, his wives and family have been present at all my programmes and project inauguration.

“He is a leader we cannot deride because we were all in the same party together before.

“We are now in different parties but we must accord him due respect as the governor and chief security officer of the state.

“Now that we are apart, let us sell our manifestoes to the masses; let us avoid politics of hatred or pull him down syndrome.

“Partisan politics does not mean violence because after elections, the state will remain.

“Let us not create tension in our state. Irrespective of where we stand politically, this state must remain peaceful. This is an obligation on our part.”

The PDP State Chairman, Joel Madaki, said: “I will do my best to keep this party united. There is no victor, no vanquished.

“We should all learn from what she has done. A young woman has come to preach peace and unity to the elderly ones. Let us love ourselves.”

LAGOS church, Grace Chapel, will hold its men’s convention next weekend.

The theme of the conference is: “Ye shall be the head.”

(Deut 28:13).

A statement by the presiding minister, Rev Tope Ogunnoiki, said the convention, which coincides with Easter, starts on Thursday with a vigil in the church’s auditorium at 129 Awolowo Way, Ikeja.

The convention will climax with a thanksgiving service on Easter Sunday.

The officiating pastor, Rev Ogunnoiki, said there will be fulfillment of prophecy, deliverance and healing.

‘Invoke FOI on lawmakers’ pay’

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GROUP, Civil Society Network Against Corruption (CSNAC), has urged a High Court in Lafia, Nasarawa State, to compel the government to disclose information on subventions and allowances of the House of Assembly members.

The legal step by CSNAC, which is a coalition of over 150 anti- corruption organisations, was a result of the failure of the Speaker to respond to the request by the Chairman of the coalition, Olanrewaju Suraju, demanding for the information.

The defendants are the Speaker, the House of Assembly and the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice.

The group wrote to the governor on September 9, last year, requesting for official information on payment for the new Assembly complex.

The Permanent Secretary, Government House, Administration, Usman I. Abu, on October 29 replied partially but directed the group to ask House for the remaining information.

The Clerk of the House, Ego Maikeffi Abashe, on December 9, last year, said: “The information cannot be released to the plaintiff owing to the fact that the Economic and Financial Crime Commission (EFCC) is investigating the matter regarding the said information.”

Not satisfied with this reply the group headed to court to ask for a declaration that the Assembly’s withholding of the information is not within the exceptions contemplated by the Freedom of Information Act 2011.

THE NATION MONDAY, APRIL 14, 2014

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NEWS Anambra shines in NECO exam

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NAMBRA Sate has emerged first in the National Examination Council (NECO) 2013 National Common Entrance.

This is coming a few days after the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) placed the state first in last year’s West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE).

An indigene of the state, Agbasi Praise Chinemelum, also emerged the best candidate.

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Former Commissioner for Education Dr. Uju Okeke said this had justified the huge investment on education by ex-Governor Peter Obi. He said the performance would get better as the effect of the return of schools, provision of boreholes, generators, Internet facilities, computers and others begin to manifest.

National Examination Council State Officer Mr John Tumba congratulated the State on the achievement.

Ultimatum for vehicle owners

HE Lagos and Ogun State Police Command have warned owners of abandoned and accident vehicles parked at Ipakodo, Ojo, Seme, Ikotun and the Ogun State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Eleweran, Abeokuta to remove them or lose them to members of the public through auction, two weeks after this publication. The vehicles are Mack head XS743KRD, Vanagon bus YE653KJA, Jetta BF59APP, Premira GN354AAA, Mazda OF503AAA, Ford GX410KJA, Nissan Almera LSD68AV, Nissan Truck Cabster EJ46LND, Nissan Almera UF741AAA, Honda Civic YB381JJJ, Nissan Sunny FQ97EKY, Honda Accord MX115APP, Honda Accord unregistered, Mercedes Benz V-BootDB293ABJ, four Bajaj unregistered and 13 other motorcycles. Also at Elere division in Lagos, one Vanagon bus YE111KJA.

NSE panel to probe building collapse

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HE Nigeria Society of Engineers (NSE), Enugu State chapter, has inaugurated a nine-man committee to probe the collapse of a threestorey building at No. 222 Enugu road, Nsukka.

Chairman of the chapter Ezekesili Onah said the committee would carry out an on-thespot inspection to establish the cause of the collapse.

He said the chapter would also inspect three blocks within the

By Jude Isiguzo

site being constructed by the same contractor.

Onah said the committee would adopt technical investigative methods of choice and analysis.

The committee is headed by the Chief Inspector, Engineering Regulations and Monitoring (ERM), Chilaka Okwuonu, and has two months to submit its report.

‘Nigeria at threshold of new dawn’

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ESPITE the sundry challenges Nigeria is facing, Minister of Power, Prof. Chinedu Nebo, has said the nation is on the verge of a new dawn.

The minister spoke yesterday in Abuja during a special thanksgiving service on the wedding of President Goodluck Jonathan’s daughter, Faith, and her husband, Godswill, at the Aso Villa Chapel.

In a sermon, titled: Jehovah, the Omnipotent is Our Refuge and Strength, Nebo said: “Nigeria is now at the verge of a new dawn. The enemy of mankind knows what God is going to use Nigeria to achieve.

That is why he will fight. But he will not succeed. The great enemy has been beheaded.

“The devil is just using these people to see what they can do.

Some of us are close to our Promised land of good health, spiritual breakthrough and promotion.

“But there are trials, obstacles, hindrances and banana peels. They will frustrate you, but it is left to you to keep keeping on.

“Nobody can stop Nigeria

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From Augustine Ehikioya, Abuja

from getting to the Promised land. Neither the country nor our President will be put to shame, according to the word of God. This is because if God be for us, nobody can be against us.”

The minister noted that there was spiritual warfare against Nigeria but assured Nigerians that God is in control.

He said: “We are in a spiritual warfare and many do not realise this. Our military will continue to do their work and God will help them. Intelligent agencies will continue to do their work and God will help them.

“But those of us who are vast in spiritual warfare should be able to know that there is more to these things than meets the eye. There are people who hate Nigeria; those who believe that except they rule, this country will not be in peace. But there is God in this country and He loves this country. He is God, and one with God is majority.”

•From left: Bro. Olutayo Oteniya; Babatunde Odufuwa - Vice Lay President, Lagos Mainland Diocese; Master Kolawole Damilare - Boy Jesus; Rt. Rev. Samuel Ajayi; The Rev. M.O. Agbelekale; Bro. Bunmi Osunrinade at the Palm Sunday parade of the African Church Cathedral Salem, 121, Freeman Street, Ebute-Metta, Lagos...yesterday

Jonathan may sanction Obanikoro, others over security abuse

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RESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan may sanction some ministers and aides for jumping the gun in the campaign for the 2015 elections and misuse of soldiers for political advantage.

Dr Jonathan is said to have received reports in which top military chiefs complained about the abuse of security by the Minister of State for Defence, Senator Musiliu Obanikoro.

Our correspondent learnt last night that the military high command expressed reservations about the minister’s use of soldiers in land matters between the Federal Government and Lagos State Government.

The military top brass were also said to have complained to the President about “the inappropriate use of soldiers for a local election” in Ondo State on the orders of Obanikoro.

A Presidency source, who addressed some reporters in

From Gbade Ogunwale, Assistant Editor, Abuja

Abuja last night, confirmed that Jonathan received briefs from the military high command and that the President was not taking the report lightly.

The source, who spoke in confidence because he was not authorised to comment on the matter, explained that Ondo State Governor Olusegun Mimiko also complained about Obanikoro’s conduct during the election which ended in a stalemate in the state.

Mimiko was said to have laid the blame for the violence that characterised the House of Representatives bye-election at the minister’s doorsteps.

Obanikoro, the governor said, conducted himself in manners unbefitting of a minister.

Dr Jonathan and Mimiko are known to have enjoyed

a cordial political relationship even though Mimiko is of the Labour Party (LP) while the President leads the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

The source said: “The use of soldiers or any other security personnel during elections has to be authorised. In this case, I doubt if it was so.

Our preliminary, though informal, findings show that the minister was indeed in Ondo State to campaign for the PDP. “The issue here is whether he was right or wrong to have gone to another state, outside his state, to campaign. This is serious because any act of violence or irregularity could be blamed on him, that he prepared the ground for such.

It is also being interpreted in some quarters to mean that the President has unleashed his men on the opposition.

“For the avoidance of doubt, Mr President will not, and does not have such at-

tributes. He is a gentleman who wants his party to win under clear circumstances and not through tainted means.

“So, in his readiness to avoid a recurrence, the President has asked that all ministers, and even aides who are not from states where elections are being held, should not go near campaign grounds of such states, except otherwise directed by him or the national leadership of the PDP.” The Presidency source added that Dr Jonathan was worried because the opposition might be forced to launch a counter-move against the minister’s action with hired thugs.

More disturbing to the President, the source added, is the security situation in the country, with militia groups and disgruntled former Niger Delta militants who may become willing tools for electoral violence.

13 African global leaders to benefit from Dangote Fellowship

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HIRTEEN among the 19 Africans recognised as Young Global Leaders (YGL) by the World Economic Forum (WEF) are to benefit from the Dangote Fellowship, instituted by the Dangote Foundation.

The African youngsters were among the 214 young leaders from 66 countries honoured for leadership and service to society by the WEF. One hundred and nine of them are women with 19 from sub-Saharan Africa.

The Dangote Fellowship, created by the WEF and Alhaji Aliko Dangote, President and Chief Executive Officer of Dangote Group, aims at increasing the quality and number of young African leaders by supporting African YGLs in the community, such as those from small enterprises or the non-business sector.

The fellowship assists YGLs from Africa to attend YGL and WEF events. It funds the organisation of an YGL Afri-

ca Education Module.

Dangote said the fellowship award was his contribution to the intellectual development of exceptional young people in Africa.

The YGLs come from diverse backgrounds and bring a range of expertise to the community from across the world.

Over 50 per cent of the new intakes are women, half of who come from the private sector and the other half from the public sector. These include the academia, arts and culture, civil society, government, media and not-for-profit organisations.

“The YGL Community assembles the world’s most outstanding next-generation leaders who have a proven record of extraordinary achievement and helps them further develop in their leadership journey,” said David Aikman, Managing Director and Head of New Champions at the World Economic Forum.

BoI approves N25.322b loans in Q1, says acting MD

HE Bank of Industry (BoI) approved N25.322 billion as loans to 968 enterprises in the first quarter of 2014, its Acting Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Waheed Olagunju, has said.

This was contained in a feedback document to the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment by the bank’s chief when he briefed the supervising ministry on the bank’s activities.

A breakdown of the figures showed that 98 per cent of the beneficiaries were micro, small and medium enterprises

By Simeon Ebulu

(SMEs).

“In line with the focus of Nigeria Industrial Revolution Plan (NIRP) and the National Enterprise Development Programme (NEDEP), all the assisted firms can potentially generate 182,926 direct and indirect jobs. Sectorally, building materials firms account for N9.8 billion, followed by agribusiness with N5.9 billion,” Olagunju said.

Olagunju, who was appointed acting MD, pending the an-

nouncement of a substantive MD, is the most senior executive director of the bank.

He assured stakeholders that BoI would continue to build on the solid foundation laid under Ms. Evelyn Oputu.

The bank chief stressed that the institution would continue to operate in line with best practices to enable it contribute effectively to the successful implementation of NIRP and NEDEP. The Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Mr Olusegun Aganga, hailed Ms Oputu for her brilliant performance

in office.

The minister said the erstwhile BoI chief transformed the bank into a first class development finance institution, and wished her the best of luck in her future endeavours.

Olagunju will be required to ensure continuity with respect to the ongoing diligent implementation of NIRP and NEDEP in line with BOI’s mandate.

President Goodluck Jonathan, on February 11, officially launched the NIRP and NEDEP, describing the NIRP as

the most ambitious and comprehensive road map that would transform the nation’s industrial landscape, boost skills development, enhance job creation and conserve foreign exchange.

“The NIRP is the flagship industrialisation programme ever embarked upon by this country.

It will fast-track industrialisation, accelerate inclusive economic growth, job creation, transform Nigeria’s business environment and stop the drain on our foreign reserves caused by importing what we can produce locally,” the President had said.

•Olagunju

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FOREIGN NEWS

THE NATION MONDAY, APRIL 14, 2014

Ukraine to fight pro-Russia forces

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KRAINE's president says a full-scale operation involving the army will be launched in the east after pro-Russian militants seized government buildings.

Acting President Oleksandr Turchynov said he would not allow a repetition of what happened in Crimea which was annexed by Russia last month.

His live televised address from parliament came after proRussian forces targeted half a dozen cities.

Moscow has strongly criticised Kiev's plan to use its armed forces.

Earlier, Nato's secretary general voiced concern at events in the region.

And the US ambassador to the UN said the attacks this weekend bore the "tell-tale signs of Moscow's involvement." But the Kremlin denies involvement in events in eastern Ukraine.

Eastern Ukraine has a large Russian-speaking population and has seen a series of protests since the ousting of Ukraine's pro-Russian President Viktor Yanukovych in February.

"We will not allow Russia to repeat the Crimean scenario in the eastern regions of Ukraine," said President Turchynov.

"The aggressor... is continuing to sow disorder in the east of the country."

But Mr Turchynov offered not to prosecute militants who gave up their weapons by early Mon-

day.

According to a Ukrainian presidential decree, pro-Russian separatists should give up their weapons and leave buildings they have occupied by 0600GMT, Reuters reported.

Responding to Mr Turchynov's address, a Russian foreign ministry spokesman said the plan to use the armed forces was "criminal" and caused "particular indignation".

Ukraine was, the spokesman said, "waging war against its own people".

He added that Russia wanted the crisis in eastern Ukraine to be considered as a matter of urgency by the UN Security Council.

Nato chief Anders Fogh Rasmussen's statement on Sunday drew parallels with some aspects of last month's seizure of Crimea.

He said the "reappearance of men with specialised Russian weapons and identical uniforms without insignia, as previously worn by Russian troops during Russia's illegal and illegitimate seizure of Crimea, is a grave development".

A Nato source told the BBC the organisation believed that "Russian forces have been involved in the seizure of some of the buildings".

And the US ambassador to the UN said the attacks on police and other buildings in eastern Ukraine had "telltale signs of

Moscow's involvement".

"It's professional, coordinated. Nothing grass-roots about it," ambassador Samantha Power told ABC News.

"The forces are doing in each of the six or seven cities they have been active in exactly the same thing."

A senior Ukrainian intelligence official said his country's special services had evidence proving Russia's direct involvement in the events in eastern Ukraine.

"We have not only evidence, we have 18 detainees, we have career officers of the Main Intelligence Directorate of the Russian Armed Forces, we have arrested agents complete with instructions, arms and explosives," Security Service head Valentyn Nalyvaychenko said in a live TV discussion programme.

On Saturday, armed men took over police stations and official buildings in Sloviansk, Kramatorsk and Druzhkivka.

Similar accounts emerged of armed men dressed in camouflage arriving in buses in Sloviansk and Kramatorsk and storming the police stations.

BBC reporters in Sloviansk said the gunmen were wellorganised and quickly established control throughout the town. Checkpoints had been set up on the main roads into the town.

LENTEN MESSAGE Theme : In God, I am unstoppable! Part 1 Text: “....... if these should hold their peace, the stones would immediately cry out.” Luke 19:40

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HEN God has made up Him mind to do whatever, there is no power that can stop, hinder or obstruct Him. By same token, when He decides to bless anyone, He goes all the way to actualise it no matter whose ox is gored. God does not depend on any human order when He wants to do anything; in fact, He suspends every law and ignores established protocols.

At Jesus’ triumphal entry to Jerusalem, the people of Jerusalem were ecstatic with the arrival of the new found King who was riding on a donkey. As He rode along, the crowd spread out their garments on the road ahead of Him. The joy of the people knew no bounds as they began to shout and sing as they walked along praising God for all the wonderful miracles they had seen. The obvious excitement of the people however elicited the anger of some of the rulers of the temple who requested Him to ask the people to keep quiet.

That there are people that are angry when others are rejoicing and are delighted when things go awry for others is an axiom of life that has been since time immemorial.

David puts it more succinctly that “the dark places of this earth are filled with habitation of cruelty”(Psalm 74:20). What this portends is that there are adversaries within and without looking for whom to devour (1Peter 5:8).

When a great child is born to a family for instance, not everybody is happy; in fact, such arrival draws the ire of family members such that they will commence to hatch plans on how to kill the star.

This explains why great children have problems with education, growth, development and life until their case is brought to Jesus for His intervention. When King Herod heard that Jesus Christ had been

By The Revd. Henry O. Adelegan

born, he and the people of Jerusalem were troubled and started scheming on how to eliminate the star but all their plans were thwarted - Herod and all the evil schemers died in the process ( Matthew 2:3, 16,19-20).

To further lay the foundation of human wickendness is the fact that it is not everyone that wants others to receive their testimonies of promotion, deliverance or breakthrough in life. There was a sister that Apostle Luke recorded was bent over for 18years. When Jesus Christ saw her in the temple, He ordered the ‘rope’ used to tie her to be loosed and she was made straight. One would have expected that people in the temple will be delighted to see the bound sister made straight but it was the elders that stood up against her testimonies ( Luke 13:11-14).

It is equally interesting to know that when a person has been murdered in his prime and people ought to be sad that a life has been cut short, there are people that throw parties and celebrate at such an exit. They may put on the garb of sympathisers but they are devouring wolves. When James the brother of John was killed with the sword by King Herod, the Jewish people were very happy (Acts 12:1-3) which motivated him to continue his devilish onslaught against the brethren by stretching his hands to kill Peter after Easter but the lives of his guards replaced Peter’s life.

What Jesus expects from us as His children, as salt of the earth (Matthew 5:13) is not to rejoice at anyone’s loss or be sadists. Rather, we are supposed to heal people’s wounds and make the world a better place for all to live in. When people are rejoicing we should rejoice with them without any pretension,

•Revd Adelegan

malice or hatred and when things go wrong or bad with anyone, we are duty bound to show love to our neighbour, either Jew or Gentile.

When the Pharisses accosted Jesus to cut short the excitement of the people, He told them that if they compel Him to order human beings to keep quiet, what can’t be kept quiet will defy laws of nature and cry ‘Hosanna’. What this statement of Jesus Christ means is that He has power that can never be stopped. He does as it pleases Him. It is through Him that all things were made and nothing was made out of the things that were made (John 1:3; Colossians 1:15-18 cf Genesis 1:13).

When Sarah had failed with the stipulated laws of child bearing and was long past the age of having children, God lifted the decree of menopause, suspended the laws of nature, changed her body system and she became pregnant at a very old age - stone spoke!( Genesis 18:9-15).

During this Lenten season, the Almighty God will visit your life, take cognisance of your home, pay attention to your work, destroy every law that is against your life and give you an awesome testimony in Jesus’ name.

Prayer: Almighty God, do what no man has the capacity to do in my life, in Jesus’ name.

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FOREIGN NEWS Clashes as police evict squatters in Rio de Janeiro

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•There were desperate scenes during the police operation...yesterday.

PHOTO: AFP

Afghan poll: Abdullah slightly ahead as count continues

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ARTIAL results from the Afghan presidential vote show former Foreign Minister Abdullah Abdullah slightly ahead of Ashraf Ghani.

With about 500,000 votes in 26 provinces counted, Dr Abdullah has 41.9% with Mr Ghani on 37.6%.

Some seven million votes were cast in total across Afghanistan's 34 provinces in the 5 April poll.

Full preliminary results are due by 24 April. A runoff will take place in May if no candidate gets a majority.

The Independent Election Commission has warned that the front-runner could easily change as counting continues in the coming days.

"Maybe today one candi-

date looks strong. Tomorrow, maybe another will pull ahead," commission chairman Ahmad Yousuf Nouristani said.

The results will now emerge every day, and some ballot boxes have yet to arrive in Kabul from remote places travelling by donkey, says the BBC's David Loyn in Kabul.

Dr Abdullah's team have exhibited quiet confidence since the election, our correspondent adds.

The partial results gave another main contender and former Foreign Minister, Zalmai Rassoul, who is believed to be President Hamid Karzai's preferred successor, 9.8% of the vote.

Possible electoral fraud has

been a concern, but the election body responsible for dealing with complaints says it will be weeks before it rules on the issue.

There were allegations of large-scale fraud when Mr Karzai was re-elected in 2009 - Dr Abdullah came second in that poll.

The Election Complaints Commission said there appeared to have been less fraud in this election.

"We have received 1,892 complaints with evidence, (including) 1,382 through phone, spokesman Nader Mohseni said on Sunday.

He said 870 fell into the most serious category.

There were also fears that Taliban violence could disrupt the election, but millions

•Abdullah

turned out despite threats and several high-profile attacks in the run-up to election day.

The vote heralds the first democratic transfer of power in Afghanistan.

The next president will have to contend with a range of difficult issues, including continuing Taliban violence and how Afghanistan adapts after the withdrawal of foreign combat forces this year.

FOREIGN MUSINGS

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Back to Syria

ERE we are at it again. Out of the hopelessly expectation of a dejected and long exasperatedly ruined Syria, it is just as if there is no light at the end of the tunnel. At the end of the week we still end with recriminations and jigsaw accusations about who did what in terms of human rights abuses and war crimes against each other. What is certain is that enormous inhumanity against inhumanity pervades the horrendous landscape o f this Middle Eastern encl terrain even as we speak. We have spoken about the number of casualties in the now almost 150,00 thousands of dead and unspeakable displaced refugees in the neighbouring regions.

The United Nations is now overwhelmed to the extent of dealing not only with a recalcitrant and continually militaristic Assad-led regime but a disparate and und uncoordinated rebel groups aided unfortunately by jihadist elements no means dissent.

Anyway, the west contenders, as in most contests in recent years, are rolling their eyes and concatenating their intent consternations and disputations in a war of contestation over who eventually controls the spoils of war. We have seen this before and no one in his livid imagination and unsurprising figuration will ever think of a leopard changing its skin so soon, so fast.

We have unfortunately reminisced in this column how and why human misery needs to be minimized and as a matter of fact eliminated in the surface of the human planet, yet these things still happen to the chagrin of decent human contents.

The form and content of these acts are not only confounding but befuddling as to how they keep happening over and over again. From the trenches of Nigeria’s Biafra; to Kosovo, from the Sahelian desert of Chad to arid land of Somalia; how about the nodic enclaves how much human misery can humanity or should humanity be bestially enthralled to just be it?

What a year a war makes? Assad’s allies have now

Global Focus DAYO FAKUADE, Foreign Editor sms 08134230367

daborgu@gmail.com portrayed him as confident and in control and they expect him to run for and win a presidential election in July - a turnaround from last year when he looked on the verge of defeat as rebels advanced.

Ukraine is still on our radar while Egypt remains contentious with our now Field Marshall Sissi set to be the new president in a scheduled June election.

We remain focused on your globe as we implore you as always to stay green. See you next week.

‘

What a year a war makes?

Assad’s allies have now portrayed him as confident and in control and they expect him to run for and win a presidential election in July - a turnaround from last year when he looked on the verge of defeat as rebels advanced

’

HUGE police operation to evict hundreds of families from abandoned buildings in Rio de Janeiro has ended with violent clashes and some injuries.

More than 1,500 police officers had arrived at dawn to evict nearly 5,000 people from the site, belonging to a telecommunication company.

Some families left peacefully, but clashes began when others resisted.

Groups of squatters threw rocks at police who responded with tear gas and stun grenades.

Hundreds of children were among the crowds.

Vehicles were set on fire and supermarkets were looted.

Several people were injured, including children and police officers.

Cranes and tractors demolished wooden huts built around the buildings, many still full of the belongings residents had had no time to pack.

"They (the police) came here breaking everything, removing the people from there," said Sandro Sousa, a squatter.

"We lost our home and we are now trying to have a house," he told the Associated Press news agency.

"I am crying because I have nowhere to go to. I have no place to live," said another,

Drielo Almeida.

But the Rio municipal authorities insisted that help had been offered to the homeless families.

"Teams of social workers were on site, but only 177 squatters accepted the support," the local government was quoted as saying by the Globo news portal.

"The city provided trucks, buses and machinery so that the work of clearing the ground and evicting the people could happen in an orderly manner," it said in a statement.

The police said the operation went as planned and had followed standard procedures.

The families began occupying the abandoned plot in northern Rio 10 days ago, moving in from the city's favelas or shanty towns.

The site was already being called Rio's newest favela.

The BBC's Julia Carneiro in the Brazilian city says pictures on local media showed how fast work was progressing.

"The area was quickly divided into tiny plots, shacks were being raised and some residents already had illegal power connections," she says.

Owned by a telecommunications company, the buildings are not far from one of the venues for the 2016 Olympic Games, which will take place in Rio.

Libyan PM to step down after attack on his family

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HE newly appointed Libyan Prime Minister Abdullah al-Thinni is stepping down after he and his family were attacked by a militia.

A statement released by the Prime Minister said that "no one was injured in the attack, but it was very close."

Mr al-Thinni was only confirmed as PM last week after Ali Zeidan was sacked for failing to improve security.

Libya has been plagued by instability since armed groups toppled Muammar Gaddafi's regime in 2011.

In a letter published on the government website, Mr alThinni said he and his family had been victims of a "cowardly attack" and he could not "accept to see any violence because of my position".

Details of the attack remain sketchy and it is not clear who was behind it, but it appears to have been carried out on the road to the airport in Tripoli.

Ahmed Lameen, a spokesman for the Prime Minister, told the BBC's Rana Jawad that Mr al-Thinni and his cabinet would continue in their roles until a new PM was appointed by the Libyan congress.

Mr al-Thinni was appointed earlier this month as interim Prime Minister and his mandate was extended last week on the condition he formed a new government to bring some stability to Libya.

The Libyan cabinet has been in a state of limbo since the sacking of former Prime Minister Ali Zeidan last month.

Mr Zeidan was dismissed by parliament after a North Korea-flagged tanker laden with oil from a rebel-held port was said to have broken through a naval blockade.

The ship and its cargo was eventually handed over to Libyan authorities after the US intervened and sent Navy Seals to board the ship south of Cyprus.

Deadly Chile fire forces evacuation

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ORE than 10,000 people have been evacuated to escape a fire in Chile's port city Valparaiso, which has killed 11 people.

Earlier, the authorities said 16 residents had died, but it turned out that one family had been counted twice.

President Michelle Bachelet put the army in charge of the evacuation after declaring the city, 110km (70 miles) west of Santiago, a disaster zone.

The forest fire has also destroyed hundreds of homes since Saturday.

A regional official said it was the "worst catastrophe" he had ever seen.

"We fear that the fire will spread to the centre of the city, which would increase the severity of the emergency," regional governor Ricardo Bravo, a life-long resident of Valparaiso, said.

The old centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, packed with old buildings that are vulnerable to fire.

Strong Pacific coast winds have pushed the fire deeper into the neighbourhoods of Valparaiso, hampering the battle to contain the blaze. The city is also built on a series of steep hills, separated by narrow winding streets, making the job of firefighters all the more difficult, says the BBC's Gideon Long in Santiago.

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THE NATION MONDAY, APRIL 14, 2014

NEWS ‘Our Boko Haram ordeal ’ Continued from page 2

Besides the “blocking and taking over” of three roads in the chiefdom, two bridges on the Bama-Gwoza and DamboaGwoza roads have been blown up and destroyed completely with explosives by insurgents.

According to the Emir, these and other life threatening activities of insurgents have prevented many traders and motorists from travelling to Maiduguri.

“In fact and sincerely speaking, my people, including the traders and other businessmen and women, have been prevented from travelling to Maiduguri to buy industrial and household goods for sale to customers in my chiefdom with an estimated population of 655, 000 in 11 wards and other border communities with Cameroon.

“Besides, there is no blessed day the Boko Haram gunmen have not killed between seven to 15 commuters on these three roads that they’ve taken over.

“My people have been prevented from going to work on their farmlands since last year and even the limited cultivated farmlands with harvests, including my 350-hectre farmlands and Orchards at Jaje village, were seized by the insurgents last October.

“How can the people of Gwoza meet their family requirements for basic needs of food, water and security? This is why my people cannot go to farm or market to survive and continue to face these challenges of insecurity to lives and property in this chiefdom, bordering Came-

roon along the hill dwellers of Duhwedeh and Mafa communities.

“I am pleading; and will continue to plead with the military, police and other security agencies to take urgent actions on the three major trunk roads which have been blocked and taken over in Gwoza council area,” he said.

Also at the weekend, Minister of State for Power Mohammed Wakil said Federal Government projects in Borno and Yobe states would be completed on schedule in spite of the harassment of contractors by insurgents.

Wakil spoke in Maiduguri during a visit to the site of a 33 KVA transmission substation on Damboa/Biu road.

•Mrs. Alison-Madueke Wakil said the substation was Continued from page 2 almost 80 per cent completed. He said the substation was designed country is getting in return. to support power supply to the “We haven’t seen that. We entire Borno State, which he said has very low level of power sup- also wanted information on the rehabilitation of the refinply.

“I am glad to announce that de- eries to know exactly how far spite the insurgency, power they’ve gone with those proprojects and other Federal projects grammes; we haven’t seen are ongoing. Our people are un- that.

“We wanted information daunted in their determination to benefit from the transformation about the volumes of prodagenda of the President. I commend the project team for not bowing to terror,” he said.

Deputy Managing Director of Continued from page 2 the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), Alhaji Abubakar er or reversed.

Atiku, said: “The implementation According to her, of greater is progressing on schedule; the team working on the project is in concern to Nigeria is the taperhigh spirits despite the security ing that is taking place in the challenges. On completion, the US that has to do with the substation will ensure improve- phasing out of liquidity being ment in the power situation in pumped into the economy. She warned that the development Borno State.”

Continued from page 2

ucts that are being sold via the Pipelines and Product Marketing Company (PPMC). We actually haven’t seen that. We wanted information on the aircraft that has now become an issue.

We’ve actually asked for this information since last year and we haven’t seen that.

“So, there are lots of what I would call routine information from the NNPC, which should be between us, the committee and the NNPC. “The last sitting of the committee on these information we require was particularly bad! They didn’t send anybody.

“It was only when I got back to the office that I saw a letter from the NNPC, saying that they were still trying to collate this information...since last year, they’ve been collating this information.”

On the time frame to submit the required information to the Committee, Abe said: “We’ve given time frames from the start and the time frames have not been met but we believe that this is an issue that neither party would like us to take to the extreme.

“So, we still believe that we would be able to work this out because a lot of the information we are asking for are practically already in the public domain and, apart from that, this is our responsibility, as the oversight committee, to have access to this information.

“It is not a witch-hunt or that we are automatically going to share this information with the public but we need to know so that we can work with them to see how we can improve the things we think can be done better and if we have advice we can proffer;

we will do that; after we know exactly what is going on.

“But definitely, we don’t think that any public corporation that is being oversighted by parliament has a right to keep a committee of parliament in the dark. Whatever they know, we are entitled to know as well.

“We are also asking for details of how the 2013 budget was implemented. It’s part of what we are asking for now; so that we can look through the budget together and it’s part of what we asked them to bring because I’ve not even seen the budget. I haven’t seen NNPC’s budget for this year.”

On what the committee would do should the NNPC fails to avail it of the required information, the committee boss said he could not speculate.

Nigeria, others lose $50b to illegal transfers, says minister

Jonathan to adjust conference membership on Muslims’ request National Conference.

He said: “We have discussed with the government on the national conference and how to make it a success. We don’t want another jamboree, we have been giving advice to our leaders; it is left for them to take the advice or jettison them.

“Every day we hear of people killed in different parts of the country. It is a nightmare that is spreading to parts of the country in the name of cattle rustling. We are worried about the Muslims, Christians and Fulani being killed because life is sacred.

“Why are we fighting each other in the name of ethnicity and religion? We should all go about our religion peacefully.

Our non-Muslim brothers should join us to look at problems bedevilling the country and find solutions.”

Guest speaker Prof. Shehu Galadanchi, said no Islamic organisation had been able to give Muslims in Nigeria adequate leadership and protection. He proposed the merger of the JNI and the Nigerian

Senate to summon Alison-Madueke over N10b private jet

Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) and Muslim Ummah of South Western Nigeria (MUSWEN), to form a single body that would be a rallying point for all Nigerian Muslims.

has very serious implications for Nigeria’s economy and its impact on portfolio flows, as well as bonds in the European market.

She said the varied global economic developments have place on Nigeria the need to continue to improve on her economic buffers, “because (what) they are telling us in the

Euro-zone (is that) they are not sure which direction it is going. In our case, that means we have to build our reserves, shore up our Excess Crude. We have to maintain very solid macro framework, because of our ties to the Euro-zone, in case something happens there.

We are already doing that, we just need to emphasise that we must continue doing that.”

On job creation, Mrs. Okonjo-Iweala said the World Bank and the IMF have agreed to create a Social Protection Programme to address the issue of growth and job creation for Nigeria and some other developing countries at the bottom end of the development lad-

2015: Five governors in cold war with First Lady Continued from page 2

egorically that the Supervising Minister of Education, Chief Nyesom Wike, is the leader of the PDP in Rivers State and he enjoys the followership of the people of the state. The First Lady is solidly behind Chief Wike. The people of Rivers State are also solidly behind Chief Wike and are prepared to follow him.

“It is, therefore, mischievous to insinuate that Mrs. Jonathan is working to ensure that the governorship candidate comes from one of the riverine areas of Rivers State, which may not be where the people are going.

“It is also imperative to state that the First Lady is always with the people and will continue to go with the wish and expectations of the people.

“Mrs. Jonathan has not with-

drawn her support for Chief Wike at any time and will always work for the interest and the good of Rivers people.

“The First Lady is also portrayed as positioning some other candidates to take over from the incumbents in Bayelsa and Bauchi states in an attempt to pitch them against the governors.

“Dr. Waripomowei Dudafa is not only a son to the President, but his employee and very close to the family. Dr Dudafa is not ready to quit his job to contest the governorship election. Similarly, the FCT Minister has been a competent and loyal appointee of Mr. President. Both of them are loyal to Mr. President and their governors.

“They are sons of the First Lady, as the mother of the na-

tion, who also has very cordial relationship with the governors in question and will never interfere in any process that will lead to the emergence of governorship candidates in the states.

“Mrs. Jonathan appeals to the governors of Bayelsa and Bauchi states to ignore the mischief makers who are bent on disrupting the peace prevailing in those states.

“The First Lady is a mother of peace who believes in the supremacy of the party and democratic principles at all levels and does not dump her friends because of politics, whether they are contesting or not.

“She, therefore, urges all Nigerians to uphold the truth at all times, and not be swayed by actions of mischief makers.”

der.

She said Nigeria came into the spring meetings, well prepared. “We just announced our rebased Gross Domestic Products (GDP), and this was very favourably accepted and looked upon, particularly when the institutions themselves participated, especially in the quality control. The rebase is stronger, it was well received; it elicited a lot of interest among participants and also private sector people who came to say they were interested in investing,” she said.

She said Blumberg Green, a

global investment firm, is willing to invest $250million in grain storage facility in the country, adding that the firm has already sent a team to the country that is working with the Minister of Agriculture.

“They want to make Nigeria the hub for grain storage and cold storage in Africa for agriculture logistics, and they want to invest $250million. They have their team, but the fact that we have the largest economy in Africa, is making them feel that this may be the place to make the hub.”

There’re enough lowerdenomination notes, says CBN

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HE Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has assured that it has sufficient volume of lower denomination notes.

Is Assistant Director, External Communications, Isaac Okoroafor, stated this at the World Bank Group’s headquarters in Washington DC. According to him, said the CBN has instructed its branches in the 36 states and Abuja, to ensure that members of the public are sufficiently provided with the lower denomination notes, if they so request.

He said: “What we have done is to instruct all our 37 branches all over the country, to go further down to interface with members of the public, shop owners, just walk into any of our branches, and they will change the money for you.

He refuted allegations that the CBN charges banks for bringing mutilated notes to the apex

From Simeon Ebulu, Group Business Editor, Washington DC

bank, rather, he explained, “what people refer to as a charge, is actually a punitive charge, and it arises from the fact that banks which have responsibilities of sorting the currencies they lodge with us, have failed to carry out this duty. “ When they bring these notes to lodge with us, we look at them, and when we find out that they are not sorted, we now use our own facility to sort them, and impose a penalty upon them, that is the charge.

The penalty is N12,00 per box of about 10,000 pieces of currency which value is N10million.”

He said if banks lodge money with the CBN which they have sorted, no charge is imposed on that, adding that the essence of sorting is to separate the fit notes from the unfit notes.

THE NATION MONDAY, APRIL 14, 2014

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THE NATION MONDAY, APRIL 14, 2014

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SPORT EXTRA Doctor advises referees to shun alcohol before matches

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AUL Onyeudo, a medical doctor with the National Sports Commission (NSC), has advised football referees to shun alcohol before matches to enable them be in control of their games.

Onyeudo, a Deputy Director at the NSC, gave the advice in Abuja on Saturday while delivering a lecture titled, ``Fitness for Referees,’’ at the FIFA Member Association (MA) Course.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Course is for Elite Referees, Technical Instructors, Referee Assessors and Physical Fitness Instructors.

Onyeudo said that alcohol caused too much urination which could lead to dehydration for the referee. ``Dehydration can lead to fatigue and referees must ensure adverse events do not mar the game,’’ he said.

According to him, it will be abnormal and unpleasant for a referee to be changed or match halted for a referee to urinate. He, therefore, noted that referees

must be healthy and to avoid being substituted in a game.

The medical doctor pointed out that referees must submit themselves to pre-season medical assessment with emphasis on the lungs and muscles. ``All existing medical conditions must be identified and controlled. These include hypertension, diabetes mellitus, exercise-induced asthma, febrile illness, arrhythmias and other cardiac abnormalities. ``Healthy practices which involves good nutrition must be followed; tobacco, stimulants and caffeine should be avoided,’’ Onyeudo added.

He noted that football had changed from what it used to be in the past, adding that referees seen as ``professional athletes’’ must have good health programme to remain fit.

The lecture marked the end of a five-day FIFA MA Course supervised by former FIFA referee, Lim Chong, from Mauritius.

Commander commiserates with Ultimate Warrior’s family

• Begins consultations for ‘Nelson Mandela’

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OMMONWEALTH Nations and America U n i f y i n g Championship Universal Professional Wrestling Federation’s (UPWF) world champion, Nigeria’s Osita Offor, also known as De Ultimate Commander, yesterday described the death of American wrestling icon, The Ultimate Warrior, as a huge loss not only to the US, but also to the entire sports world.

Speaking when condoling with the United States of America and the family of the late Ultimate Warrior, De Commander described the American wrestling legend as one of the role models who ‘made me interested in wrestling. He was such a brilliant wrestler, who brought flair, flamboyance and drama to the profession.

“Alongside Hulk Hogan, Jake the Snake and Shaun Michaels, among others, the Ultimate Warrior made wrestling a must watch for many Nigerian homes. That I am now a top wrestler is partly because of the seed he sowed in me early in my life. If I knew he would die so soon, I would have asked him some of the questions that have been on my mind for so long.

May his soul rest in peace.”

Speaking on the forthcoming Nelson Mandela Commonwealth Nations and America Unifying Championship, which will take Nigerian, American, Canadian,

South African and European wrestlers to South Africa, Britain, the US, Canada and Nigeria in celebration of the late South African legend, Dr. Nelson Mandela, De Ultimate Commander said he has been in consultation with top local and foreign wrestlers to ensure that he emerges from the bouts with his title still intact.

“I have been in touch with my coach, Jimmy Superfly Snuka, as well as the Barbarian and Earthquake because they are the ones in charge of my training. I am also training locally here with Jimmy Palm because I want this title to remain in Nigeria. If you look at the belt, even though I am the world champion, Nigeria’s flag is not among those emblazoned on it.

The authorities are waiting for me to confirm my superiority to other wrestlers before they put Nigeria on the belt, so that is why I am leaving no stone unturned in my quest to defend the title successfully.”

De Commander said the Mandela Championship will begin in the South African cities of Johannesburg and Durban on July 18 and 20 respectively, hold in Lagos (July 25), Abia (July 27) and two cities in Britain on August 1 and 3, 2014.

On August 9 and 16, the championship will hold in the United States’ cities of Dallas and North Carolina on August 9 and 16, while the Canada leg on August 23 will round off the programme.

•Onazi celebrates his goal against Napoli

Onazi scores first Serie A goal of the season

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AZIO midfielder Eddy Onazi registered his first goal in the Italian Championship for close to a year against Napoli in the 33rd round.

But the capital team lost 4 - 2

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reopen the race for a few minutes,” the website said on the former My People FC starlet.

Onazi last struck in the Serie A on May 8, 2013 in the 3 - 1 away win over Inter Milan.

than hit the outside of the post when unopposed eight yards from goal.

The game then changed dramatically in a three-minute spell around the quarter-hour mark. Chico Flores was booked for a cynical foul on Willian, and when he then repeated the trick on the edge of his own box on Andre Schurrle, referee Phil Dowd eventually decided it

was worthy of a second yellow card. Swansea manager Gary Monk raged at the fourth official by the dugout, while Chico grumbled in the same direction as he went down the tunnel.

Chelsea knew then that the remainder of the game should be one-way traffic, and it proved to be largely the case.

Samuel Eto’o screwed a poor

shot wide from a great position when the ball dropped to him six yards out in the second half, but moments later Chelsea made the breakthrough.

Nemanja Matic laid the ball on a plate for Ba with a long ball from midfield and the Chelsea striker’s shot took a deflection on its way beyond Michael Vorm in the Swansea goal.

Sone Aluko helps Hull reach FA Cup final

ONE Aluko looked good and in fine form when he came on as a 46th minute substitute as Hull City got a 53 victory over Sheffield United to secure passage into the final of the FA Cup on Sunday.

Hull will play Arsenal in the final on May 17 at Wembley.

The Tigers twice came from behind to win the high scoring encounter. Jose Baxter opened scoring for Sheffield in the 19th minute before Yannick Sagbo equalised three minutes before half time.

The League One side retook the lead two minutes later via Steven Scougall and went into the break with the advantage.

Hull came back firing soon after Aluko came on and equalised four minutes after the restart via Matt Fryatt and Tom Huddlestone gave them

their first lead of the game on 54 minutes.

Stephen Quinn scored to make it 4-2 on 67 minutes in what seemed like the game was beyond Sheffield but Jamie Murphy’s strike on 90 minutes meant that the Premier League side would endure a nervy finish as their opponents searched for the equaliser.

David Meyler put the game beyond reach for Hull in the third minute of added-on time for 5-3 as Steve Bruce’s side marched on to the final where Arsenal awaits. The Gunners triumphed over Wigan on Saturday via penalties after regulation ended 1-1.

Aluko would hope to enter into the history books among the illustrious

Nigerian players to have won the FA Cup. He would follow in the footsteps of such names like Daniel Amokachi, Nwankwo Kanu, Celestine Babayaro, John

Utaka and John Obi Mikel.

It could also underline his push to be part of the Nigeria squad to the World Cup as Stephen Keshi continues to mull over his final team.

•Hull players celebrates their 4-2 victory over Sheffield United

2014 WORLD CUP: Rep harps on early preparations

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•Ultimate Commander

the Super Eagles’ player highly after the encounter at the Stadio San Paolo, Napoli.

“He grew in the second half, throwing himself into it with pride in the final.

Scored the equalizer to

Demba Ba claims 1-0 win for Chelsea

HELSEA made hard work of playing against 10 men for 74 minutes of the match against Swansea, but Demba Ba’s second-half goal was enough to keep them two points behind Liverpool at the top of the Premier League table.

Mohamed Salah came close for Chelsea after six minutes but should have done better

S

to Napoli with Argentina international Gonzalo Higuaín netting a second half hat - trick for the Naples bases outfit.

The editors of Tuttomercatoweb.com rated

member the House of Representatives and Deputy Chairman Committee on Sports, Hon. Ayo Omidiran has harped on early preparations for the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.

Omidiran, who spoke during the House of Representatives Press Corps’ “ Hot Seat” series at the weekend, said this is necessary in order to achieve success at the tournament.

“Football is played on the field in 90 minutes, including extra time, not on paper. Nigeria needs to prepare and also pray for goodluck in the tournament,” she said.

From Victor Oluwasegun, Abuja The lawmaker who represents Ayedaade/ Irewole/Isokan Federal Constituency of Osun State, however expressed optimism that Coach, Stephen Keshi will lead the Super Eagles to the 2014 World Cup. According to her, the Super Eagles have equal chances as other participating teams at the World Cup. She, however, said she was unaware of any plan by the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) to hire a Technical Adviser for Super Eagles.

Her words: “To the best of

my knowledge, I don’t know of any plan by the football authorities to hire a Technical Adviser. These kind of reports will only serve as a distraction to the team and it will not help us in the build-up to the 2014 World Cup.” Speaking on the recently passed 2014 budget, Omidiran denied the insinuations that her party the All Progressives Congress (APC) ordered its members in the National Assembly to delay the passage of the 2914 budget unnecessarily.

“We were not instructed to delay passage of the 2014 budget unnecessarily, in spite of different

interpretations given to the instruction from our party leaders.

“Budgets are done at committee stage, the APC had half of the entire members in the House during the period in question and we scrutinized the budget at the committee level.

We have done what we are supposed to do and it does warrant the passage of the budget, remember three months have already passed.

“We were being blackmailed by some people that APC does not mean well for Nigerians, but yesterday (Thursday) we showed the whole country that it is not true”

THE NATION MONDAY, APRIL 14, 2014

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TODAY IN THE NATION

MONDAY, APRIL 14, 2014 TRUTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM

VOL 9 NO 2,818

‘Citizen Chidiebere must not be allowed to die in vain. The Enugu state government on whose behalf the culprits worked must be made to pay adequate compensation to the family of the young lad who has been sent to his early grave for no just cause’ EMEKA OMEIHE

C OMMENT & D EB ATE EBA

W

HEN the news of Nigeria’s new laurel broke as the GDP icon of Africa, I was interested in the celebrity status for a different reason. I looked for indices. I thought about oil. But they said our status came not because of oil but because we had added other players to the repertoire of our economic drama.

Without oil, all the other indices will pass for little. Oil money provided the capital for the other investments, including agriculture.

We live and die by oil as a state, in spite of the greater roles of agriculture, technology and, of course, Nollywood. In oil, we live and move and have our beings. Is it not because of dwindling oil revenue that we cannot pay states their allocation? Yet, if we read the news well, we will worry over what is going on with oil giant Shell. It has decided to sell off its wells in Nigeria. Few people are asking: to whom? If we don’t handle that sale transparently, we shall fall into a bad place. So what oil has given us in GDP, oil may take away in revenue, jobs and other areas of an already tottering economy.

However, everyone likes a little praise here and there. We want to take credit when we do well, just as some persons in government are happy that Nigeria is the biggest economy in Africa. But no one wants to be mentioned if we describe that economy as big for nothing. As we select language, so also we select figures. The beauties of words and figures are in the eyes of the beholder.

You can find the words that can make a thing great and the same thing a devil. For instance, an imperiled man can look at a gun and describe it as a weapon of liberation. In another breath, an opponent can condemn it as a murder weapon. The South African athlete, Pistorius, has said he shot his girl friend, Reeva, accidentally. Others say he committed murder. The bottom line is Reeva died.

The Bible says money is the root of all evil.

The same book says money answers all things.

When the United States fought with Iraq in the era of President George Bush, Sr., missiles were unleashed to Saddam Hussein’s territory. The United States media called them Patriot missiles. When Iraq shot similar weapons, the U.S. media called them scud missiles. Both killed and destroyed. But from the U.S. angle, patriot missiles fulfilled a noble mission of death, while the scud missiles pursued an ignoble mission of death.

So we do with figures. A football team manager once said he could turn a billion dollar profit into a billion dollar loss and vice versa. As Einstein said, it is not the figures that matter but those who count them.

And I may add, how they count them. So while GDP made us one of the best in the world, the World Bank says we are at the bottom three of the poorest in the world. So, what statistic do you want? I do not however belong to the ambience of those who say the

RIPPLES SMOKE IN PUBLIC AND PAY N50,000 FINEMinister

N50,000? i bet that’ll be an ‘EXPENSIVE CIGARETTE’

SAM OMATSEYE

IN TOUCH

intouchnation@gmail.com 08054501081(sms only) Twitter: @samomatseye

Big for nothing oil

‘

If the selloffs by Shell are not transparent, the consequences will be dire. If they lack strong and resilient financial bases and lack competences, we shall wake up one morning and discover that our oil wells cannot yield oil because those in charge are still working on the technicalities of drilling and shopping for those who can do the job

’

• Mrs. Diezani Alison-Madueke GDP status is a bad thing. But it is not a good thing until we turn it into prosperity. Until then, it is only numbers. Numbers don’t lie.

But numbers don’t put food on the table.

We have seen here how banks turned red accounts into black and the chief executive officers of the banks basked in glamour. They became role models, philanthropists and pastors. Until the ousted CBN chief, Lamido Sanusi, exposed them, we did not know that they were fraudsters and famous debtors in suit and agbada and immaculate syntax and the snob culture of the polished. Of course, they were frontbenchers in Christian crusades against iniquity and they donned our national awards and chieftaincy titles. Our leaders anointed them and our marquee pastors solemnised their paths.

So let no one rejoice at the size of an economy that hoists the same size of suffering. What is the size of our healthcare, or

G

EE, whoever thought up this rebasing of economy a la Nigeria must be a genius. Delayed rebasing is like delayed gratification – it just streams in endlessly like someone on an extended trip to cloud nine.

Imagine what it would be for Hardball, who had never based his economy before, not to talk of rebasing – I instantly became a billionaire upon first basing and then rebasing my economy in one sweet stretch.

Now it was a bit complicated considering that I am neither a statistician nor an economist, but I just applied a few rules of the thumb.

I first created baskets of all my portfolio of assets. For instance, all my bank accounts – both live and moribund; all my two-bit stocks, including those I cannot find the addresses of the companies anymore and those that had never paid nary a kobo dividend since I was corralled into buying their public offer. In another basket are my salary and other incomes from P-P (we all know what that means don’t we?) and beneficence from well-wishers and people of goodwill. Yet I opened another basket for my pension scheme, esusu, co-operative and thrift penny clubs. I also worked out my landed properties, which comprised a city boy’s quarter apartment and a village cottage.

Wow, you never really know how much you were worth until you begin to tab it. I threw in

education, or middles class? How many people live on less than one dollar a day? Most Nigerians. Some countries with smaller GDP have power and many of them have better educational systems and health care guarantees.

We cannot have real growth without power and today we pretend in that category. Just after we spent billions of dollars to get DISCOs and GENCOs, we are told things have fallen apart and darkness is still here to stay. That leaves us with oil, the free gift of nature. But it seems that also is in danger. We cannot get good refineries. All we do now is rely on swapping our crude oil for dollar and other products on arrangements known only to the NNPC and the presidency.

To complicate that, we have the story of Shell, the oil giant. Just as we saw due process doomed, I fear that if care is let loose, oil wells managed by Shell for decades will fall into incompetent hands. This is because the oil giant is throwing in the towel and is about to sell off our patrimony. The oil wells belong to Nigerians. If Shell is pressured to

HARDBALL

sell it without transparency, we shall have what Fela described as “dead body get accident”.

According to reports, some of the bidders include Vertex and LetterOne, Aiteo and Taleveras, MidWestern Oil and Gas with Mart and Notore, Lekoil, Seplat, Transcorp, Sahara Consoritum, etc. Licences known as OMLs are now choice cake and the pedigrees of the owners of the bidding companies must be scrutinised. Who are they? What are their links with government? We must know whether they have strong competences. That is one of the critical agonies with our DISCOs and GENCOs. We did not do due diligence. Unlike the telecoms companies, the power deals were handed over to the friends of the powers that be. They thought it was all gold in the power sector. They got the DISCOS and GENCOs and they were disappointed to see dross instead of gold. They felt like a bridegroom who did not know his bride well and choked on body odour at night. The DISCOS and GENCOs complain every week. The victims are the common Nigerians who sweat it out with their I better pass my neighbour power generating sets when they can afford it. The Frankenstein wonder has become their Frankenstein monster.

The NNPC owns 55 percent of the OMLs while Shell owns the balance with AGIP and ENI. I know the presidency and the oil minister must have voices in this matter.

The National Assembly has to intervene and probe the financial profiles of the bidders. We don’t want government loan guarantees for them or those who woke overnight into money whose sources we cannot verify.

If the selloffs are not transparent, the consequences will be dire. If they lack strong and resilient financial bases and lack competences, we shall wake up one morning and discover that our oil wells cannot yield oil because those in charge are still working on the technicalities of drilling and shopping for those who can do the job. Today, the federal government has complained that it does not have enough money to pay states even though oil revenue is soaring higher than the budget benchmark. Imagine the scenario when we don’t even have the oil to sell.

Shell is selling off because of pipeline vandalisation, oil theft, oil spills and restive host communities. The next complaint might be just like the story of Nigeria with great GDP side by side with great hunger. It will be a parody of poet Samuel Coleridge’s line: oil, oil everywhere but not a drop to drill.

If it is one thing to be without power, have we imagined Nigeria without both power and oil! Our oil will be big for nothing, just like the big-for-nothing billions of dollars spent on big equipment that has given us darkness for electricity.

•Hardball is not the opinion of the columnist featured above

Wow! Hardball rebases his economy too my seven-year old corolla and my wife’s 10year old. I then opened what I termed the domestic basket. Here, I threw in my wife and four children and, of course, the house-keeping money over the years (they are assets aren’t they?); I listed the household items in the houses – from the settee to the kitchen utensils down to my boxers and even madam’s small pieces of clothes and lipsticks. I captured also, all the school fees I had paid for myself, my wife and even my children from their kindergarten days up to this moment (now this is huge). There are also the school books, uniforms, all the little extortionate side payments.

There is also the social basket, which will hold all such activities like naming ceremonies, birthdays, weddings, aso-ebis, etc. The church is not to be lumped in one basket with the socials – the offerings, the harvests, bazaars, special thanksgiving, building funds, welfare fund, this fund and that fund. The more I give it a thought, the more baskets of assets I fill out to overflowing.

It can also get a little complicated: would I

include all the gifts and donations I had made to less privileged people, including relatives?

What about servicing of vehicles, payment of mai-guards, all the drinks I have quaffed and offered to friends and other kuru-kere expenses, the specificity of which are better loaded under miscellaneous, as one may not be terribly proud of them?

But surely, I must capture all my written works – books of poems, hundreds of articles which could translate into books someday; one must also quantify the column name, which has become a high value brand, and the person behind the column, which could become an instrument of brand/corporate endorsement someday soon.

There must be so much more left un-captured, especially some brilliant ideas I have swimming in my head all this while. But these will do for now. Upon quantifying all these, I found that I am suddenly a billionaire; what feel good feeling it gives me, but I dare not mention my new worth at home, lest the house-keeping money instantly skyrockets to the status befitting of a truly wealthy man. But great feeling it is all the same.

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