The Nation April 22, 2015

Newspaper of the Year

Mimiko’s deputy faces impeachment

Ekiti Assembly siege continues

NEWS

NEWS

Page 9

Page 8

•House, APC disagree over notice

•Schools reopen for new term

•Nigeria’s widest circulating newspaper

VOL. 10, NO. 3192 WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22, 2015

TR UTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM TRUTH

Buhari backs Adesina for ADB President

N150.00

How Indian perpetrated N32b bank fraud, by EFCC T

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RESIDENT-ELECT Muhammadu Buhari has requested the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to support the candidacy of Dr. Akinwunmi Adesina as president of the African Development Bank (ADB).

Adesina, the outgoing minister of agriculture and rural development, is contesting against seven others: Sufian Ahmed, Jaloul Ayed, Kordjé Bedoumra, Cristina Duarte, Samura M. W. Kamara,Thomas Z. Sakala and Birama Boubacar Sidibé .

The election is slated as part of the Annual General MeetContinued on page 4

•www.thenationonlineng.net

•Dr. Adesina

HE Federal High Court in Lagos yesterday heard how an Indian businessman, Patrick Fernandez, allegedly perpetrated a N32billion bank fraud.

Fernandez, along with three of his companies, is facing a 56count charge of fraud.

A former Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) investigator, Bashir Abdullahi, said the commission learned of the fraud when

By Joseph Jibueze

one of the banks contacted the agency’s Financial Intelligence Unit.

According to him, in July 2008, he was assigned to investigate the case of suspicious financial activities involving Fernandez and his companies.

The banks, he said, are Zenith, Afribank, Intercontinen-

tal, Union and Wema.

His investigations, he said, revealed high volume transactions from one account to another, which he said were suspected to be fraudulent.

Abdullahi said: “Our findings was that he was involved in cheque-kitting Continued on page 60

•EX-EGYPTIAN PRESIDENT MORSI JAILED 20 YEARS FOR ORDERING ARREST, TORTURE P59

IG Abba fired as Jonathan yields to his wife’s pressure OUT

IN

President ‘demands loyalty till last day’ Arase takes over

T

From Yusuf Alli and Yomi Odunuga, Abuja

P

OLICE chief Suleiman Abba lost his job yesterday, becoming the first major casualty of President Goodluck Jonathan’s electoral loss. He was immediately replaced

by Mr. Solomon Arase.

No reason was given for Inspector-General Abba’s sack.

The Nation, in a report last Saturday, said Dr. Jonathan was under pressure to give Abba the boot—for alleged security and protocol breaches.

A statement signed by presidential spokesman Dr. Reuben Abati said: “President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan has relieved the Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Suleiman Abba of his appointment and duties with immediate effect.

“President Jonathan has also appointed Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Solomon Arase as Acting Inspector-General of Police, also with immediate effect.

“Until his appointment as Mr. Abba’s replacement, Mr. Arase was the Head of the Force Criminal Intelligence and Investigation Department.

“Mr. Arase holds Bachelors and Masters Degrees in Law, as well as Bachelors and Masters Degrees in Political Science and Strategic Studies.

“He is also a Fellow of the Nigerian Defence College.”

Presidency sources said First Lady Patience Jonathan played a pivotal role in the events leading to Abba’s WILL THE CHIBOK GIRLS sack.

Abba, The Nation learnt, KIDNAPPED ON APRIL 15, LAST had earlier been summoned

?

YEAR EVER RETURN?

Continued on page 4

Boko Haram kills two soldiers in Baga rocket attack

WE S AID S O •Abba

•Arase

INSIDE

•How Abba got the boot •What manner of tenure •The man Arase •SEE PAGES 2&3

•The fron Natio n...last page of T t Satu h rday e

WO soldiers were killed in a Boko Haram rocket attack on a military vehicle in Borno State town town of Baga, residents told French News Agency (AFP) yesterday.

Six other soldiers and a civilian vigilante were critically injured when their vehicle hit a mine planted by the Islamists just outside the town on Sunday, the sources added.

The attack and the mine explosion happened as the military escorted about 1,200 people from Baga on a brief return visit to their hometown from Maiduguri, the state capital.

Boko Haram seized the town on the shores of Lake Chad on January 3 and is suspected of killing hundreds in what was feared to have been the worst massacre in the six-year insurgency.

Nigeria’s military recaptured the town in late February, in an operation also involving Chad, Niger and Cameroon stepped up to drive out the militants from occupied territory.

“Boko Haram fired a rocket-propelled grenade on a military van in an ambush in Baga which killed two soldiers and destroyed the vehicle,” said resident KaContinued on page 4

•LIFE P13 •SPORTS P23 •MONE P26 •INVESTORS P28 •POLITICS P45 •FOREIGN P59

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22, 2015

2

NEWS

Eclipse of PDP in Northwest •Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola (second left); Commissioner for the Environment, Mr. Tunji Bello (second right); Special Adviser on the Environment, Dr Taofeek Folami (left) and Director of Research, Department of International Politics, Aberystwyth University, Prof Richard Beardsworth (right) at the opening of the Seventh Lagos State Climate Change Summit organised by the Ministry of the Environment at the Eko Hotel & Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos...yesterday PHOTO: OMOSEHIN MOSES

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has gained control of the seven states in the Northwest geo-political zone, thereby halting the influence of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the region.

Group Political Editor EMMANUEL OLADESU examines the tragic transition of the ruling party into an opposition in the most populous zone.

P •From left: Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc, Mr. Phillips Oduoza; Chief Executive Officer, Seplat Petroleum Development Company Plc, Mr Austin Avuru and Deputy Managing Director, FBN Capital, Mr. Taiwo Okeowo at the signing of the $700 million secured seven-year term loan and a $700 million Accordion facility for Seplat Plc, facilitated by UBA Plc and four other banks in Lagos...yesterday.

Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Gu Xiaojie and All Progressives Congress (APC) National Chairman Chief John Odigie-Oyegun when the envoy visited the party chair in Abuja...yesterday.

RESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan’s loss in the Northwest geo-political zone is Gen. Muhammadu Buhari’s gain. The most populous region is now dominated by the All Progressives Congress (APC). The turn of events is tragic for the ruling party. Before the election, only Sokoto, Kano and Zamfara were under the firm grip of the APC. But, at the close of the presidential and governorship polls, Katsina, Kaduna, Jigawa and Kebbi had fallen to the APC. Whatever gains recorded by the PDP in the Southeast were neutralised by the Northwest votes.

Like other zones in the North, the Northwest’s power shift battle was interesting. It was the project of the Northern political class, the royalty and aristocrats. To them, the President, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan has violated the zoning principle by using

Eight months U

• President, Court of Appeal, Justice Zainab Adamu Bulkachuwa flanked by Justice, Court of Appeal, Enugu Division, Justice Amiru Sanusi (left) and ex-Court of Appeal President, Justice Umaru Abdullahi at a retreat for chairmen of the Election Petitions’ Tribunal at the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Ceremonial Court Room in Abuja...yesterday.

PHOTO: AKIN OLADOKUN.

the weight of his office to press for a second term. If the President had stepped down his second term ambition, the PDP would have zoned the presidency to the North. It would have been a tough battle between the ruling and the main opposition party.

The crisis that consumed the PDP began from the Northwest. The Sokoto State Governor, Alhaji Aliyu Wamakko, was suspended. Although the suspension was lifted, the damage had already been done.

When the suspension was lifted, his Rivers State colleague Governor Rotimi Amaechi accused the national leadership of the party of being partial because his own suspension was not lifted.

The zonal leader, Alhaji Ibrahim Kazaure, was also suspended. His suspension was not lifted by Alhaji Bamanga Tukur, the former National Chairman. In protest, the zone, which

NTIL his sack yesterday by President Goodluck Jonathan, Suleiman Abba held the forte as the Inspector-General of Police (IGP).

He assumed office as the nation’s 17th IGP on August 1, 2014. He walked his way into controversies shortly after he came on board.

Unlike his predecessor, Mohammed Abubakar, Abba left no one in doubt that he came into office as a ‘traditional’ police chief, ready to second guess the mood of the powers that be, in words and actions. He chose to play the ‘Bingo’.

Perhaps, the most glaring of his indiscretion was his meddling in the face-off between the leadership of the House of Representatives and the Presidency late last year. Not a few were appalled by his brazen partisanship when he mobilsed his men to occupy the National Assembly. Many said the police occupation of the lower legislative chamber was to pave the way for Speaker Aminu Tambuwal’s removal shortly after he defected from the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Abba, in a jiffy, withdrew Tambuwal’s security detail, citing constitutional provisions that by virtue of his defection, Tambuwal ceased to be Speaker. Even when summoned

From Gbade Ogunwale, Assistant Editor, Abuja

by a committee of the House, Abba stood his ground and insited that Tambuwal was not the Speaker. He refused to recognise his as such.

“I don’t recognise Mr. Tambuwal as Speaker”, he told the committee members to the consternation of Tambuwal’s colleagues, who ordered him out of the chamber.

Covertly or overtly, Abba continued on the same path in his subsequent actions, to the satisfaction of his paymasters, who saw in him a ‘dutiful IGP’.

The PDP took advantage of the former police chief to perpetrate unimaginable assaults on opposition elements in all parts of the country. The police, under Abba, were indifferent to the series of bloody attacks on leaders and members of the opposition, particularly in Rivers State. Under his watch, scores of opposition members were either maimed or killed during and after the general elections by those suspected to be supporters of the ruling party.

With Abba as IGP, the police in collaboration with suspected hoodlums ensured that Okrika, the country home of President Jonathan’s wife, Dame Patient, became a no-go-area for the opposition.

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22, 2015

•Dankwambo

•Yari

was united behind Kazaure, demanded the removal of the embattled chairman. An aggrieved Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso decried what he called, the injustice meted to the zonal leader. Warning about the danger of inflexibility on the part of the National Leader and the National Chairman, he said aggrieved chieftains had an alternative to seek political fortune outside the PDP. When the New PDP broke away from the ruling party, Wamakko and Kwankwaso led the aggrieved Northwest chieftains to its inaugural meeting in Abuja. The New PDP was an integral part of the ruling party, which did not foreclose the opportunity for reconciliation. But, the party failed to grab the chance to reconcile.

The conditions of the leading lights were simple: Let Tukur take the back seat, lift the suspension on protesting members and reinstate the National Secretary, Olagunsoye Oyinlola, a retired brigadier-general and former Osun State governor, whose election as the party’s national secretary was not faulted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The conditions for a truce were ignored by the President.

During the crisis, the aggrieved governors did not leave their followers in the dark. They were carried along during their face-off with the national leadership. Their supporters therefore, believed that the attack on the governors was an attack on them.

They resolved to either survive or sink with them.

In Katsina, nobody was in doubt about the soaring profile of the APC. The governor, Ibrahim Shema, knew

3

•Wamakko

it would be difficult to stop the Buhari train. The President-elect is from the state. During the campaigns, the people demonstrated their love for him by trooping out. Even, at the PDP campaigns in Katsina, the state capital, the people were shouting Sai baba, Sai Buhari (only Buhari). Although Shema is popular, there was no way he could have convinced his people to reject the former military leader, who was perceived as the symbol of the popular clamour for power shift to the North.

The perception of the Buhari candidacy was the same in Zamfara State. Since 1999, the progressives have dominated the politics of the state. The PDP was kept at an arm’s length by the defunct All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP) for 16 years. Even, when former Governor Sani Yerima’s successor, Memuda Shinkafi, dumped the ANPP for the PDP, he lost his seat in the next election to incumbent Governor Abdulazeez Yari.

The governor has been adjudged as a performer. As a silent worker, the former House of Representatives member has successfully built on the achievement of the ANPP administrations and carved a niche for himself. The progressive bloc in Zamfara is a united fold. When the APC was weaned by the leaders of the legacy parties, it quickly enlarged its coast.

There was no succession struggle as members were unanimous that Yari deserved a second term. When the APC presidential campaign train rolled into Gusau, the state capital, the crowd was unprecedented. Since that day, it was clear that the APC had grown in leaps and bounds in the

•Shema

•Yero

state. On poll’s day, it was a clean sweep.

In Jigawa State, the people were also rooting for the APC because of the Gen. Buhari factor. Although Governor Sule Lamido understood the implications, his loyalty to the PDP as a founding father was legendary. He knew that Gen. Buhari was unstoppable but he rejected the entreaties to jump ship, saying that the PDP can still overcome its problems.

On the eve of the general elections, Lamido, the last man standing in the Northwest PDP was a lone voice in the wilderness. It was evident that he has lost control. When the results of the poll got to him, he was said to have maintained his calmness.

Sources said that Lamido reflected on his failed efforts to save the sinking ship. Accepting defeat, he acknowledged that the outcome was not beyond expectation.

In the last eight years, the governor has tried for his people. He will be leaving behind legacy projects. In fact, the in-coming APC governor has a lot to learn from his style of governance. But, it was not about him. It was about the performance of his party at the centre.

But in Kebbi State, former Governor Adamu Aliero was sensitive to the wind of change. He refuted the allegation of defection to the PDP, saying that it was incongruent with the mood of the region.

As it turned out, the second term ambition of Kaduna State Governor Mukthar Yero also hit the rock. The casualty was heavy, with former Governor Ahmed Markafi also losing his senatorial seat. In the previous dis-

•Kwankwaso

pensation, what usually shaped the elections in Kaduna was the acrimony between the Muslims and the Christians. That gave way in the last election. The only factor was Buhari.

But, two states - Sokoto and Kano spearheaded the crusade in the Northeast. Wammako had put his house in order, ahead of the election.

Following his defection to the APC, his former supervisor and rival, Attahiru Bafarawa, defected to the PDP when it became obvious that the progressives have the tradition of making the governors the state party leaders. But, the party in Sokoto also moved swiftly by nominating House of Representatives Speaker Aminu Tambuwal for the governorship.

Thus, there was no succession crisis as no eyebrow was raised over the legislator’s aspiration. Unlike the PDP, which went to the polls as a divided house, APC maintained a united front.

In the PDP, members loyal to the deputy governor, Alhaji Mukthar Shagari, were bitter over his exclusion from the exercise. Since 2007, the former Minister of Water Resources has been on the queue. He stepped down for Wamakko in 2007. When the governor also left the PDP for the APC, he waited behind as the arrowhead of the decimated chapter. However, during the primaries, Senator Abdallah Wali surfaced. With the backing of the party machinery, he displaced Shagari. Thus, there was a repressed post-primary crisis in the Sokoto PDP. The ruptured confidence was not rebuilt. Genuine reconciliation did not take place.

As it was in Sokoto, so also was it

•Lamido

in Kano. Kwankwaso has a solid base.

He is very popular. In fact, he has a large followers as shown in Lagos during the APC presidential convention when he came second. Since he lost power in 2007, he has vowed never to allow the mistake to repeat itself. Eight years after, he regained the lost seat and became a towering figure. His Kwankwasia movement attests to his soaring profile. Thus, right from the onset, he has been an asset to the APC. When the governor became the APC leader, his predecessor, Alhaji Ibrahim Shekarau, hurriedly left for the PDP. He was rewarded with an appointment as the Minister of Education. That was not what the North wanted. The zone had its eye on the Presidency. When Shekarau pleaded with the people of Kano to vote for the President, his pleading was turned down. The Kano rally of the APC said it all. On the Election Day, commoners mobilised themselves under the leadership of Kwankwaso to vote for their idol, Gen. Buhari.

What is the future of the PDP in the zone? From May 29, opposition leaders in the Northwest zone will include Lamido, Bafarawa, Shekarau, Shema, Makarfi, and Shagari. One of the challenges that will face them is the proper coordination of the zonal chapter. Another challenge is funding of the party structures. ‘However, the greatest challenge is how to adjust to the role of the opposition, which the AD, AC, ACN, ANPP, CPC and APC exemplified before power shifted on April 11.

s after, IGP Abba out, Arase in The man Arase

A

N indigene of Edo State, Solomon Ehigiator Arase, a Deputy Inspector-General (DIG) of Police, was born on June 21, 1965 in Sapele, Delta State.

He enlisted into the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) at 25 on December 1, 1981.

Arase attended the Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, Kaduna State, where he studied Political Science and graduated in 1980. He also obatained a Law degree in 1998 from the University of Benin, Edo State and proceeded to the Law School in 2001.

In 2004, he obtained a Master’s degree in Law from the Lagos State University and went for another Master’s in Strategic Studies (MSS) in 2009 at the University of Ibadan (UI), Ibadan, Oyo State.

He has held several postings and positions in the force, including Principal Staff Officer (PSO) to three consecutive Inspectors-General of Police (IGPs). He was an Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG), Force Intelligence Bureau (FIB); Commissioner of Police (CP) in Akwa Ibom State and

Several attempts by the APC to campaign in Okrika were thwarted with sporadic gunshots and destruction of campaign venues. The police looked the other way.

The bloodbath was replicated in Akwa Ibom, Delta, Edo and other states, which the ruling party considered its traditional stronghold.

But all the abuse never meant much to the PDP-led Federal Government for as long as the victims were opposition elements.

in charge of Information & Communication Technology (ICT), Force Headquarters (FHQ); Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP), State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Panti-Yaba, Lagos, among others.

Until his appointment as Acting Inspector-General of Police yesterday by President Goodluck Jonathan, Arase was Head, Force Criminal Intelligence and Investigations Department (FCIID).

His hobbies include: reading, sports, travelling, investigation and music. Arase has passion for police reforms, intellectual engagements, team work, initiative and professional excellence.

Arase is a Fellow, Nigeria Defence College; member, Nigerian Bar Association; member, International Bar Association (IBA); member, International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) and member, Nigerian Institute of Management (MNIM).

He is a recipient of many awards, national and international commendations .

However, the outcome of the March 28 presidential and National Assembly elections, in which the opposition APC trounced the ruling PDP, jerked Abba to the stark reality of the shape of things to come. Pronto, the former IGP started retracing his steps. He did not want to sink with his outgoing employers.

But in his bid to carry out his duties with measured neutrality, Abba incurred the wrath of the powers that be. Ahead of the April 11 governor-

ship election, the former IGP deployed three commissioners of police to monitor developments in Rivers State, apparently mindful of the vitality of the state. He had directed each of the police chiefs to monitor events in the three senatorial districts in the state.

But Mrs. Patience Jonathan would have none of it. So, Abba was forced to withdraw the three police cops on the “orders from above”.

The former IGP also deployed Tunde Ogunsakin, an Assistant In-

spector-General of Police (AIG) to the troubled state to complement the efforts of the officers and men on ground. Again, Mrs. Jonathan allegedly kicked and Ogunsakin was ordered to leave the state in a hurry.

Before he was sent away from Rivers, Ogunsakin had called a meeting of all governorship candidates in for a pre-election briefing. While other candidates attended the meeting, the candidate of the PDP, Nyesom Wike stayed away. He probably foresaw the fate that awaited Ogunsakin. Abba also attempted to deploy 2, 800 antiriot police personnel in Rivers to ensure violence-free governorship and House of Assembly elections. That was also resisted by his paymasters.

Trapped between the devil and the deep blue sea, Abba then chose to play by the rules in the discharge of his duties. It was too late. With supplementary governorship election scheduled to hold in Abia, Imo and Taraba states on Saturday, the Presidency and the leadership of the PDP can no longer leave security to Abba. Having lost some of its strongholds to the opposition, the ruling party was no longer comfortable with Abba in the saddle.

After looking inwards, the Presidency decided to replace him and the lot fell on Solomon Arase, a Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG).

Arase will be coming in as a man with nothing to lose. Either way, he will be retiring with the outgoing administration in less than six weeks. So much depends on his discretion. Abba holds degrees in History and Law. Prior to his appointment as IGP, he was the AIG in charge of Zone 7. The 55-year-old Abba was born on March 22, 1959 in Gwaram Local Government Area of Jigawa State, Northwest.

He was enlisted into the Force on December 31, 1984.

Abba became an AIG on February 22, 2012, a few days after the appointment of his predecessor, Mohammed Dahiru Abubakar as IGP. Abba and Abubakar were contemporaries. They were both on the AIG rank when the latter was appointed.

But for his sack yesterday, Abba would have served out his tenure as IGP. With AP24176 as his Service Number, Abba was billed to bow out of the service on March 22, 2019.

The new IGP served in various capacities and at various police formations. He was the Assistant Commissioner of Police in charge of State CID at the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Command, from where he was redeployed to the Force Headquarters as Deputy Commissioner of Police, (Deputy Force Secretary).

4

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22, 2015

NEWS

•President Goodluck Jonathan welcoming Ghanaian President John Mahama to the Presidential Villa in Abuja…yesterday.

PHOTO: AKIN OLADOKUN

•Ghanaian President Mahama being received by the President-elect Muhammadu Buhari in Abuja…yesterday.

PHOTO: NAN

Buhari advises politicians to keep in touch with base

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RESIDENT- ELECT Muh a m m a d u Buhari yesterday advised politicians to keep in touch with their base instead of being Abuja politicians.

He urged them not to abandon their constituencies.

Buhari spoke when he received a delegation from Kwara state led by Governor AbdulFatah Ahmed.

He said they should realise

N

From Tony Akowe, abuja

that four years is not for ever, saying: “if you are not in touch with the grassroots, you may not be lucky the next time to win their votes”.

Buhari also appealed to the incoming lawmakers to collaborate with the government in delivering the dividends of democracy and ensure quick passage of bills meant to enhance the welfare of the people.

The President-elect, who acknowledged his long-standing relationship with the people of Kwara, recalled that as Military head of State, his Foreign Affairs Minister, Prof. Ibrahim Gambari, drafted a foreign policy that was second to none.

Lamenting the insurgency in the country, Buhari said it was unfortunate that security agents could not curtail the activities of Boko Haram and had to rely on Niger, Chad and

Cameroun to fight the insurgents.

He maintained that after achieving great fear in foreign peace keeping operations in Burma, Liberia, Sudan, Sierra Leone and Dafur, the Nigerian military could not curtail the activities of Boko Haram in just 14 out of the 774 local government areas in the country.

Governor Ahmed said they Continued on page 60

Tinubu rejects Kashamu’s overtures

ATIONAL leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu yesterday rejected the overtures from Senator-elect Buruji Kashamu.

Kashamu, SouthWest Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Contact and Mobilization Committee chairman, last week in an advertorial, described Tinubu in superlative terms after funding hate advertorial against the former Lagos state governor before the elections.

In a statement from his Media Office titled: ‘I do not need your praise’ and signed by his media adviser Sunday Dare, Tinubu said: “Our attention has been

Kashamu: I only congratulated APC leaders

O

GUN East Senator-elect Buruji Kashamu yesterday said he only sent an “innocuous congratulatory message” to All Progressives Congress (APC) National leader Asiwaju Bola TInubu and other leaders of the APC In a response to Tinubu’s reaction to his open advertisement, Kashamu said: “For me, it is high time politicians and leaders rose above petty issues and raised the bar in constitutional democracy. We should not just be democrats in words but also in deeds. We should play politics withdrawn to the recently advertised letter by Mr. Buruji Kashamu to Asiwaju Bola Tinubu in which he described Tinubu in superlative terms and as his role model. Kashamu needs to stop this

out bitterness.

“It is on record that no Nigerian politician has taken former President Olusegun Obasanjo to the cleaners even as a sitting President like Asiwaju Tinubu did. Yet, Chief Obasanjo forgave him. As for me and Baba Obasanjo, he remains my father and leader, just as I am his son and follower. At no time did I abuse Gen. Muhammadu Buhari.

“As a true party man, I campaigned vigorous-

cynical fawning. It will not work.

“The days of false adulation are gone in Nigerian politics.

Fake praise singers like Kashamu will find that their particu-

Continued on page 60

lar craft is no longer in vogue.

During this election cycle, their practice has dramatically turned from the way things are to how things used to be.

Continued on page 60

Boko Haram kills two soldiers in Baga rocket attack Continued from page 1

rimbe Maina The soldiers were driving back to their base outside Baga to mobilise more troops to help drag an armoured vehicle stuck in the mud across town on the shores of Lake Chad, he added “Following the attack which killed two soldiers there was a prolonged gun battle ýbetween soldiers and the Boko Haram gunmen, which forced the gunmen to flee,” said vigilante Haruna Shuaibu.

The attack disrupted the

tour, forcing the residents to leave their badly damaged and pillaged town as quickly as possible, said Musa Bulama who was on the visit.

The visit was initially planned for Sunday but was temporarily stalled after a military vehicle set off a mine in Kauyen Kuros village, six kilometres (four miles) from Baga.

“We had to spend the night in Kauyen Kuros as a result of the explosion which injured six soldiers and a member of the civilian vigilantes giving Continued on page 60

Buhari backs Adesina Continued from page 1

ing (AGM) of the bank on May 28 in Abidjan, Ivory Coast.

Gen. Buhari has communicated his backing of Dr. Adesina’s candidacy to Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama, the chairman of ECOWAS, a statement by spokesman Garba Shehu, said.

According to him, Gen. Buhari said his support of Dr.

Adesina’s candidacy was not just because he is a Nigerian. ”Dr. Adesina has a proven track record in a career that predates his position as Nigeria’s Minister for Agriculture and Rural Development.”

He added that Dr. Adesina had years of experience of working in Francophone and Anglophone countries, and a passion to help eradicate povContinued on page 60

IG Abba fired as Jonathan yields to his wife’s pressure Continued from page 1

by the President to defend himself against allegations by some Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leaders and security chiefs regarding his role during the March 28 and April 11 elections.

Abba got the push because he rebuffed a presidential directive to make some “strategic moves” that would have favoured the ruling party in the two elections, the sources said.

One of them specifically mentioned Abba’s reluctance to redeploy the Assistant Inspector General in charge of Zone 6 Tunde Ogunsakin, from Rivers State to Cross River on the eve of the gubernatorial and Houses of Assembly elections.

The aim, it was gathered, was to enable the ruling party perfect what was described as its ectoral heist in some states in the Southsouth.

A source said when it became apparent that Abba was “using delay tactics” in carrying out the order, the First Lady, who was with some of her aides in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital, instead of Bayelsa State

where the President had gone to vote, called Dr. Jonathan demanded an immediate implementation of the directive, it was said.

Miffed by what she considered to be an affront, said the source, the First Lady said Abba would regret his tardiness.

Said the source: “I can categorically tell you that Abba would have saved his job but for what happened on the eve of the governorship election when we were in Port Harcourt. Could you believe that despite an initial signal from the authorities that Ogunsakin should be moved to Calabar, Abba was playing games with the directives? He was apparently not in the mood to comply. The President had to call him directly before the order was carried out, following a complaint made to him by the First Lady.

“I am also aware that the authorities are not happy with his conduct during the presidential election, especially his seeming closeness to the president-elect and his presence at presentation of Certificate of

Return to Gen. Buhari in Abuja.

He would have been allowed to stay on till the inauguration of the new government but for ignoring the wishes of the wife of the President.”

Asked if Abba explained his alleged reluctance to obey the order when he was summoned, the source said it would not have mattered as the President considered his action an act of disloyalty to constituted authority.

He said some of the security chiefs had also complained about Abba’s aloofness and “uncooperative attitude” during the presidential election in which he allegedly told his officers, including Assistant Inspectors-General (AIGs) and Deputy Inspectors-General (DIGs), to obey only orders emanating from his office.

Another source said Abba’s conduct since Buhari was elected showed evidence of disloyalty.

He was said to be behaving as if Jonathan’s tenure was over without minding the transition in place.

“His behaviour, especially

his appearance at the presentation of certificate to Buhari, was described as ‘officially intolerable’,” the source said.

“There was no evidence that Abba was officially invited to the ceremony by INEC chairman to have warranted his presence. The Presidency felt he brazenly slighted the president and the Commander-inChief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“By shifting loyalty to the president-elect, the IGP was alleged by the Presidency to have exposed other Service Chiefs’ careers to a ‘grave risk’ as it would appear to the President-elect as if they are disloyal.

“Jonathan was displeased that the IGP did not show much commitment to the team spirit with which all Service Chiefs went into the just-concluded general elections.

“By the sack, Jonathan offered to show Abba the exit way to prevent him from benefiting from any restructuring by the new administration.”

Responding to a question, the source added: “The sack of

Abba was not about refusal to act a script during the general election because the President was magnanimous to concede defeat but it was sheer lack of loyalty to the system.

“Why will the IGP chart a partisan course? No government can condone this.”

Another source, who spoke in confidence, said the leakage of the redeployment of AIG Tunde Ogunsakin from Rivers State angered the President.

The source said: “When there was security alarm from Rivers State on the eve of April 11 governorship poll, the President invited IGP Abba to compare security notes. The interaction was only witnessed by the Special Adviser to the President on Domestic Affairs, Dr. Dudafa.

“It was shocking for the President to read about a ‘presidential directive’ in some newspapers on the redeployment of Ogunsakin.

“The President was taken aback and he asked who could have leaked the information to the press. Neither Abba nor Dudafa claimed responsibility for the leakage.”

•Mrs. Jonathan

It was gathered that the President decided to wield the stick to prove that he is not “ a weak leader”.

A source said: “The President initially chose to ignore Abba but he changed his mind to show that he is not a weakling.

“And Jonathan has demanded loyalty from all Service Chiefs till he leaves office on May 29.”

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THE NATION WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22, 2015

5

NEWS APC warns against fake job consultants

T

HE All Progressives Congress (APC) has warned the citizens against some ‘419’ text messages in circulation, asking those seeking federal appointments under the incoming Buhari Administration to contact certain consultants via telephone and email.

The party said no consultants have been hired to screen anyone for federal posts.

Its National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, in a statement in Abuja yesterday, urged Nigerians to ignore such text messages, saying “they were definitely originated and circulated by fraudulent per-

sons”.

“Even when it is obvious that those behind these messages are merely seeking to swindle innocent Nigerians, some desperate persons may still fall prey to the evil machinations of the con artists. This is why we have decided to alert Nigerians to the fraudulent text messages,” it said.

APC reiterated its earlier statement that any information concerning appointments into federal posts would be duly communicated to the citizenry at the appropriate time through the usual communication channels.

Be in touch with your constituencies, Buhari tells politicians

P

RESIDENT-ELECT General Muhammadu Buhari has advised politicians, especially those elected into the National Assembly, to stay in touch with their constituencies and avoid the temptation of being “Abuja politicians”.

Buhari, who spoke when a delegation from Kwara State visited him, said politicians win election by being in touch with the grassroots, noting that when they are not in touch with the grassroots, they should not expect to win the next election.

He said: “If you are not in touch with the grassroots, you may not be lucky the next time to win their votes.”

Buhari appeal to the incoming lawmakers to collaborate with the government in delivering the dividends of democracy by ensuring quick passage of bills meant to enhance the welfare of the people.

Lamenting the insurgency in the Northeast, Buhari said it was unfortunate that the security agents could not curtail the ac-

From Tony Akowe, Abuja

tivities of Boko Haram and had to rely on Niger, Chad and Cameroun to fight the insurgents.

He maintained that after achieving great feat in foreign peace-keeping operations in Burma, Liberia, Sudan, Sierra Leone and Darfur, the Nigerian military could not curtail the activities of Boko Haram in just 14 out of the country’s 774 local government areas.

Kwara State Governor Abdulfatai Ahmed said the delegation was in Abuja to congratulate the President-elect for his victory at the poll.

He noted that the state has had a long standing relationship with the president-elect.

The governor added that the state was ready to collaborate with the incoming government to complete federal projects across Kwara State.

The President elect also received a delegation from Kogi state led by former governor, Prince Abubakar Audu.

Five election tribunals to sit in Abuja

F

IVE governorship and legislative election tribunal will seat in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja owing to security problem in four states.

They include those of Rivers, Adamawa, Borno, Yobe and the FCT. While those of the four states will handle governorship and legislative election petitions, that of the FCT will only hear legislative petitions because governorship elections did not hold in Abuja.

From Eric Ikhilae, Abuja

The Nation learnt yesterday that while court rooms have been allocated to the other four, the Borno tribunal is yet to get a sitting space.

A senior official of the Court of Appeal’s Election Petition Unit said effort was on to get a space for the Borno tribunal as soon as possible to enable it commence sitting required under the Electoral Act.

•From right: President-elect Muhammadu Buhari, former President Olusegun Obasanjo and Senator Hadi Seriki during Obasanjo’s visit to the president-elect in Kaduna.

PDP, senators plot against APC over National Assembly’s posts

S

TRONG indication emerged yesterday at the National Assembly that the Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP’s) senators-elect maybe plotting to snatch the slot of Senate President from the All Progressives Congress (APC) senators when the eight Senate takes off in June.

It was also gathered that the PDP leadership was garnering support for a dark horse within the APC to emerge Speaker, apparently piqued by its poor outing in the general elections and its new minority status in the two chambers of the National Assembly.

Findings showed that senators of the two parties intensified their lobbying at informal meetings yesterday in Abuja over the Senate presidency.

By convention, the APC with 60 senators elected on its platform in the March 28 National Assembly election is expected to produce the principal officers of the upper chamber, including the Senate President while the PDP with 49 senators on its fold, is supposed to form the minority party in the chamber.

Credible sources said that

From Onyedi Ojiabor, Gbade Ogunwale, Blessing Olaifa and Sanni Onogu, Abuja

while APC senators from Northeast and Northcentral geo-political zones busied themselves lobbying to clinch the plume job, PDP senators were perfecting a plot to present a candidate with the anticipation that APC senators might fail to agree on a sole candidate for the office of the President of the Senate.

A ranking APC senator, who spoke on the development, expressed the fear that unless the APC was able to put its house in order, PDP might grab the slot of Senate Presidency “through the back door.”

The senator also made case for the Northeast to be given the slot, insisting that “for the sake of justice and fair play, the APC leadership should zone the Senate presidency to the Northeast that produced the second highest number of votes to the party after the Northwest.”

However, APC has been urged to be vigilant following the ambition of incumbent Senate President, David Mark, to lead the 8th National Assembly.

Senator-elect for Kano North

Barau I. Jibrin gave the advice in an interview with reporters in Abuja, saying the APC caucus should strategise ahead of the inauguration to frustrate the ambition of Mark.

According to him, it would be in the greater interest of the APC and the nation for the incoming Senate to be led by the majority party in the National Assembly.

The leadership of the PDP has vowed to thwart whatever zoning arrangement the majority APC might be planning to put in place for the election of Speaker of the House of Representatives.

Findings by our correspondent indicated that the PDP leadership and its elected members have decided to repay the APC in its own coin, for denying Mulikat Adeola Akande, the PDP’s choice for the Speakership in the 7th National Assembly, the plum job.

With the support from the then Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), the current Speaker, Aminu Tambuwal, from the Northwest, emerged as Speaker, defeating Akande, who was the PDP’s anointed candidate.

In the new calculation, the PDP and its elected House members are said to be filing behind an APC member from the Northwest, a choice the APC leadership would never make, considering the fact that the President-elect, Gen. Muhammadu Buhari, is also from that zone.

It was learnt that the plot was being hatched with the active involvement of principal officers in the Senate.

The APC has no fewer than 230 members in the in-coming House of Representatives against PDP’s 120.

The APC, with majority members in the House, is yet to officially zone the position of the Speaker to any of the zones, a situation the PDP leadership has decided to exploit.

But a PDP source privy to the scheme, doubted the feasibility of the plot, in view of the overwhelming majority of the APC in the in-coming House.

Besides, the source, who did not want to be named, noted that the prevailing circumstances in the PDP that led to the emergence of Tambuwal as Speaker did not exist in the APC.

Bamaiyi: how Ajudua, court registrar swindled me of $330,000

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ORMER Chief of Army Staff Lt.-Gen. Ishaya Bamaiyi yesterday told a Lagos High Court sitting in Ikeja how a Lagos socialite, Fred Ajudua, used a court registrar, Idowu Oluronke Rosulu, to defraud him of $330,000.

Gen. Bamaiyi told Justice Lateef Lawal-Akapo that the $330,000 collected from him by Rosulu, on behalf of Ajudua, was done under the pretext that it was meant to be part payment for professional fees charged by Chief Afe Babalola (SAN) to handle his case.

Bamaiyi, who was being led in evidence by counsel to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr. Seidu Atteh, told the court how the fraud was perfected by Ajudua through Oluronke to make it look like a genuine transaction.

The former Chief of Army Staff told the court that he met Ajudua and Alumile Adedeji (a.k.a. Ade Bendel) at Kirikiri Maximum Prison, during his remand for an alleged murder

By Adebisi Onanuga

attempt on the publisher of The Guardian, Mr. Alex Ibru and two others in 1999.

Gen. Bamaiyi said he was then facing a four-count charge bordering on conspiracy and attempted murder of Ibru, exDirector of Sports in Delta State, Isaac Porbeni, before a Lagos judge, Justice Olubunmi Oyewole (now a justice of the Court of Appeal).

Justice Oduwole had in a judgment delivered on the matter ordered that Bamaiyi be freed as the judge held the prosecution failed to prove beyond reasonable doubt that he was guilty of the offence.

The Army General told the court that the Rosulu, who was then Justice Oyewole’s registrar, visited him three times at Kirikiri Maximum Prison in respect of the payment for Chief Babalola’s professional fees.

He claimed that Ajudua later told him that based on the advice of the then Chief Judge, Justice Ade Alabi (rtd), and

former Attorney General, Prof.

Yemi Osinbajo, that the case would be better handled by Chief Afe Babalola and that he would facilitate his release from prison custody.

“On November 23, 1999, I was in Cell 5 (first floor) at Kirikiri Maximum Prison. Later, Ajudua and Ade Bendel were brought in at the block. I and Ajudua were together in my cell. So, we became friends.

Ajudua told me that he is a lawyer and has studied my case, and found out it is purely a political one.

“Ajudua told me that he was interested in the case and has sent his wife to see the Lagos Chief Judge, Justice Ade Alabi (retired), and the state Attorney General over the matter. I was told that the chief judge was the one in contact with Chief Babalola.

“I was told that Chief Babalola charged $18 million as professional fees. I was then told that the money would be paid through Justice Oyewole.

Ajudua told me that Justice

Oyewole was going to send his registrar, Rosulu.”

Bamaiyi told the court that Rosulu first visited him in prison on October 23, 2004.

“She came with Ajudua to the prison and confirmed to me that she was sent by Justice Oyewole. She came with Ajudua to the visiting room, alongside a prison officer, ACP Abdullahi Garuba,” the former Chief of Army Staff said.

He said she paid him a second visit on November 6, 2004 at about 10am and that the defendant came again with Ajudua alongside ACP Garuba.

His words: “This time, she came with her daughter whom she said was from the university. The defendant assured me that any money released through Justice Oyewole would get to Chief Babalola.

“Before the defendant’s third visit on November 20, 2004, a friend of mine had arranged $330,000 for me. The money was brought in a ‘Ghana-Must-

Go’ to the prison. I showed Ajudua the money and he said he will ask one Jonathan (Ajudua’s boy) to accompany us in counting the money. The money was counted in the presence of the defendant, Rosulu and a prison officer (ACP Garuba).”

He said after the money was counted, Rosulu carried the bag and Ajudua saw them off to the gate.

“That evening, Ajudua told me that the defendant Rosulu called and confirmed delivering the said money to Justice Oyewole and taken to Chief Babalola. I have never met her again until December 19, 2013 at the Lagos office of the EFCC,” he said.

Bamaiyi said after Ajudua had travelled to India and he did not hear from Chief Babalola, he became suspicious that something must have gone wrong.

“I called Ajudua’s line in India to tell him that Justice Oyewole said he never received any money and Chief Babalola did not handle my case. Ajudua

only asked me how I got Justice Oyewole’s number and thereafter stopped receiving call on that line,” Bamaiyi stated.

During cross-examination by the defence counsel, Mr. Bamidele Ogundele, the retired army general noted that the defendant (Rosulu) never introduced herself to him as an officer or staff in the office of Chief Babalola.

Bamaiyi stressed that the defendant did not sign any document and could not have signed any document on receiving the $330,000 as part payment for Chief Babalola’s professional fees.

EFCC alleged that Ajudua was able to defraud Bamaiyi by claiming to have close ties with Justice Oyewole, before whom the army general was standing trial.

Rosulu is facing trial on a two-count charge of conspiracy to obtain money by false pretences and obtaining money by false pretences.

The matter would continue in court today.

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22, 2015

6

NEWS XENOPHOBIC ATTACKS

Tam David-West cautions against reprisal attacks

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ORMER Minister of Petroleum Prof. Tam David-West has cautioned against reprisal attacks against South African interests.

He blamed President Jacob Zuma of South Africa for the crisis, saying he lacked the political will to prevent it.

Prof. David West called on the President-elect, Muhammadu Buhari, and President Goodluck Jonathan to take proactive steps to reassure Nigerians in South Africa that Nigeria cares for its citizens anywhere they maybe.

He said: “Anytime I see the situation in South Africa on CNN, my heart bleeds, because if Mandela was still to be alive,

From Oseheye Okwuofu, Ibadan

this situation would have been prevented. Mandela knew what other countries contributed to the Apartheid in South Africa. It’s a dangerous dimension to their economy, if foreigners are asked to leave.

“Apartheid didn’t come to an end because of the struggle by South Africans, but because of African states. What is happening there now is a disaster that should be stopped if the country doesn’t want to be destroyed. The youth are complaining that foreigners are taking over their jobs; then they should also create ways for themselves to fit into the jobs.

Agbakoba wants Nigeria's High Commissioner in South Africa recalled

South Africa deploys army to end violence

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HE South African Defence Minister Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula has said the Army will be deployed to end the attacks on foreigners.

Soldiers, according to her, would be deployed to Alexandra and other flashpoints in KwaZulu-Natal province This will be the first troop deployment since the violence broke out early this month, killing at least seven people.

South Africa has faced a backlash from other African states following the attacks.

Many people would “appreciate the decision to bring in the defence force”, MapisaNqakula told reporters.

The defence minister added that troops would not take

over the responsibilities of the police, but would assist in maintaining order.

The Ministry of Defence said they would be deployed from 18:00 local time (16:00 GMT) in Alexandra township, north of Johannesburg.

Mozambican Emmanuel Sithole was killed in the township at the weekend.

Four suspects appeared in court yesterday over Sithole’s killing, which was caught on camera by a local reporter.

The men were remanded in custody, without being asked to plead.

A crowd protested outside court, demanding justice for Sithole.

The Army was also deployed

during the xenophobic violence in 2008, when at least 63 people were killed.

But, police said the situation had been brought under control, with no new violent attacks reported anywhere in South Africa.

Over 900 people have been repatriated to their countries since the violence broke out, officials said.

The violence has targeted other Africans and Asians, who came to South Africa after white-minority rule ended in 1994.

In Malawi’s capital, Lilongwe, yesterday, 2,000 people protested against the violence.

“South Africa, why kill your fellow blacks?” read one post-

er.

The protesters chanted slogans against South Africa’s President Jacob Zuma and Zulu King Goodwill Zwelithini.

They gave Zuma a 48-hour ultimatum to get the monarch to apologise for alleged xenophobic remarks he made last month, or else they would boycott South African goods.

The powerful monarch has denied fuelling xenophobia, saying at a rally on Monday: “If it were true that I said foreigners must go, this country would be up in flames.”

With the unemployment rate at around 25 per cent, many South Africans accuse foreign nationals of taking jobs from locals.

From Yomi Odunuga, Deputy Editor, Nation’s Capital

H

UMAN rights lawyer Dr. Olisa Agbakoba has said the Nigerian High Commissioner in South Africa should be recalled over the xenophobic attacks against foreign-

ers.

In a statement by his law firm in Lagos, Agbokoba condemned the attack, saying the development could cause a strain in their relationship.

"The Nigerian High Commissioner in South Africa should be recalled; our foreign minister should summon the South African commissioner in Nigeria to convey our disappointment with the behaviour of some South Africans.

"The South African government must know that xenophobic behaviour of its people is not acceptable to Nigerians.

"It will have the gravest consequences for Nigerian-South African relations; unless they stop their inexcusable behaviour, '' the statement said.

The statement said there could be no excuse for the outrageous behaviour, especially in the context of the good relations between South Africa and Nigeria.

It noted that Nigeria's support for South Africa toward their independence should not be rewarded with such treatment.

South Africa closes Lagos consulate

S

OUTH Africa yesterday closed its consulate in Lagos following antixenophobic protests.

Protests were held outside the consulate and at the South African High Commission in Abuja.

South Africa’s Consul General in Nigeria Sam Monaisa said in an e-mail to the South African business forum in Nigeria that the closure would remain till tomorrow.

The situation in Durban had calmed down, but he was concerned about the Nigerians that were being repatriated, he

wrote.

Nigerians were using social media to blow up an already tense situation out of proportion and stoking emotions.

This was why Nigerians maintained that their compatriots were being killed in South Africa daily, he said.

He warned the forum’s members to stay on the alert and not move around unnecessarily.

South African businesses and citizens became targets of threats and acts of retaliation whenever xenophobic attacks occurred in South Africa, he cautioned.

•Former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi with Nigerian victims of the attack in Johannesburg, South Africa...yesterday

NANS, youths, others protest in Abuja

Y

OUTH groups, including the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) and the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), yesterday protested at MTN and Digital Satellite Television (DSTV) offices in Maitama, Abuja.

The protest was organised to express their displeasure at the inhuman treatment meted out to Nigerians and other Africans residing in South Africa.

From Bukola Amusan, Abuja

The groups, which converged on the Unity Fountain by 8 am, carried placards, with inscriptions, such as “Xenophobia is evil”, “An injury to one is an injury to all”, “Stop this evil attacks”, among others.

They caused a traffic gridlock as the protesters marched to the South African-owned companies.

A 72-hour ultimatum was

handed to the the South African government, led by President Jacob Zuma, to address the attacks.

They threatened to clampdown on South African investments if no response came from the South African government.

NANS President Tijani Usman, who led the protest, said: “It is aimed at showing our grievances and solidarise with our people in South Africa that are affected by the

xenophobic attacks.

“Africa is our own and we should not be seen as racists in our continent. The act exhibited by youths in South Africa is condemnable and it has to stop.

“We call on Jacob Zuma to address the inhuman treatment within 72 hours, otherwise the South Africans living in Nigeria will not find it easy.

“We will make sure they are deported and their businesses shut down.”

ECOWAS seeks punishment for perpetrators of attacks

T

HE Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has warned the South African government to halt the killing of immigrants.

It urged South Africa to ensure that those responsible are brought to book to serve as a deterrent to others.

ECOWAS Chairman and President of Ghana John Mahama, in an interview with reporters after a meeting with President-elect Muhammadu Buhari, said it was unfortunate that citizens of countries that fought against white majority rule in South Africa had become target of attacks

by South African youths.

He stressed that besides condemning what was happening in South Africa, ECOWAS and others must work with South African government to ensure that the killing is stopped and prevented from happening again.

“I think it is an issue that

From Tony Akowe, Abuja

we are all worried about because of the specific circumstances of South Africa and it’s most regrettable and most unfortunate. I think that the young people of South Africa do not know what happened before they gained their freedom. Africa stood behind South Africa to fight apartheid.

“Indeed, for several of the countries whose citizens were brutalised in South Africa, these are countries that were called frontline states and harboured the freedom fighters of South Africa and gave them safe haven, gave them passports to be able to avoid the clutches of the apartheid regime.

“Nigeria, although not a neighbour of South Africa, was considered a frontline state because of the economic contribution that it made to liberate South Africa from

apartheid. And so, it is regrettable that the same people, who fought against apartheid, are being attacked.

“The pictures we have seen are horrible. As ECOWAS, we have issued a statement condemning what is happening. The unfortunate thing is that this is not the first time.

It keeps flaring up and so while we are condemning this incident, we must work with the South African government to ensure that it doesn’t happen again.

“We are trying to create an integrated continent where people can move freely among our countries. This has not set a good example for integration and especially for South Africa that has investments in all countries.

“I think that the government must sit up and take strong action and those involved in these atrocities brought to book and punished, to serve as a deter-

rent.”

Congratulating Nigerians for a peaceful, free and fair election, he said Nigeria set an example for other African countries to follow in good governance and democracy.

He said: “I am here in my capacity as the chair of the Authority of the Heads of State and Government of ECOWAS and if you recall, shortly before the elections in Nigeria, I visited on behalf of ECOWAS to encourage the country to hold a peaceful election that was free, fair and transparent.

“You have done just that and the elections were held in a peaceful environment and the President-elect was elected. I am here to congratulate him on his election on behalf of the ECOWAS region.

“Earlier this morning, I called on President Goodluck Jonathan and also commended him for the maturity and

statesmanship that he showed in terms of conceding before the results were announced and calling the President-elect to congratulate him.

“I think that Nigeria showed a good example for our sub region that democracy and good governance has found a firm root in the subregion. ECOWAS has a protocol on democracy, good governance and election and I believe that this has been properly followed in Nigeria.

“We have five elections this year and Nigeria has set the pace. We still have Togo, which is coming up this Saturday. In October, we have Burkina Faso, Cote d’Ivoire and Guinea. I think that with what has happened in Nigeria, you have set the example for others to follow in terms of the standard to follow.”

On insurgency, he said: “One of the major issues we have is insurgency. There are

many dimensions to what is happening in the Sahel parts of not only West Africa, but also parts of Central Africa.

These are part of the results of the destabilisation that took place in North Africa.

So, it is a matter that does not affect only West Africa, but also Central Africa.

“We are forming strategic partnerships to see how we will deal with it. One of the things we were supposed to carry out is a joint meeting between the Economic Community of Central African States and ECOWAS. “There was supposed to be a joint meeting in Malabo, but that meeting was postponed as a result of the elections in Nigeria. We are hoping that the inauguration of the president will take place so that a date for that joint meeting will be fixed so that together as sub regions, we can take joint strategies on how to deal with Boko Haram”.

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22, 2015

7

NEWS

I

NDEPENDENT National Electoral Commission (INEC) chairman Attahiru Jega yesterday explained why the agency could not cancel some election results.

Foreign and local election observers, including civil society organisations (CSOs), have queried the results of the Governorship and House of Assembly elections in Abia, AkwaIbom and Rivers states.

A coalition of CSOs – the Nigeria Civil Society Situation Room – in its postelection analysis on April 13, said reports submitted by its members, who monitored elections in three states, showed that the elections were “fraught with irregularities.’’ It expressed concern “about the conduct of the elections in the three states because there are grounds to question the credibility of the results”.

The Situation Room urged INEC to take steps to authenticate the final collated results from the three states against the polling unit results and make a reasoned judgment about them.

Speaking yesterday in Abuja at a dialogue session by the Situation Room, Jega justified the reason his commission could not cancel results from the state as is being requested. He blamed this on some inadequacies in the Elecoral Act. Jega decried the fact that the INEC in Abuja has little control on the state offices, noting that Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) were given enormous powers in the Electoral Act.

Oshiomole advises NLC

Jega: INEC helpless on Rivers election results •Explains why he rejects reappointment

‘

There is nothing in the legal framework that gives the INEC chairman the power to cancel results from anywhere following alleged irregularities. We have no power to cancel elections results once returns have been made.

From Eric Ikhilae, Abuja

He noted that once a Returning officer declares any election result, “whether the result is false or doctored, there is nothing else we can do about it than to ask the candidates to go the the tribunal to challenge such result.

“There is nothing in the legal framework that gives the INEC chairman the power to cancel results from anywhere following alleged irregularities. We have no power to cancel elections results once returns have been made.”

He said his commission also lacked sufficient evidence to support claims of irregularities in Rivers.

“On the petition on irregularities in Rivers, the commission sent three national commissioners to investigate. Some people don’t want elections to hold, they are the ones calling for cancellation.

We investigated the allegation of fake result sheets in Rivers,

our reports showed there was nothing like that,” Jega said.

He said there was no way INEC could have conducted the run-off within seven days as provided for in the Constitution and the Electoral Act. “I heaved a sigh of relief when the election did not result to a run-off. That would have occassioned a big constitutional crisis. This is because the constitution only made provision for seven days for such poll. You and I know there was no way we would have been able to conduct a run-off within seven days”.

He regretted that efforts by INEC to have the Electoral Act and the Constitution amended before the 2015 elections failed. “It would have helped if we had got the amendments,” Jega said adding: “This is why I emphasise that amendments to the electoral laws should be done in good time. We could have further sanitised the

’

electoral process if we had got some amendments we required in the Electoral Act.” Jega also explained why he will not accept any offer of reappointment as INEC chairman. He plans to do something else, he said.

He attributed the success recorded in the last elections to the deployment of technology, adding that subsequent elections can be better if the success is sustained.

Said Jega: “Evidently, some people did not want us to use the Card Reader machine.

That was why we allowed manual election in some few places where the Card Reader did not function well during the presidential election.

“Some people were already saying we deliberately deployed Card Reader machine that will not work in some zones. And to prove them wrong, we instructed that manual voting takes place in such places. But some people wanted to take

Threats should be taken serious, says Ogunsakin

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SISTANT Inspector General (AIG) of Police, Zone 6 Command Mr. Tunde Ogunsakin, yesterday in Calabar, advised policemen not to underestimate any security threat.

He spoke at the police Officers’ Mess in Calabar, the Cross River State capital, while hosting participants of Course 79/2015 of the Department of Maritime Warfare, Armed Forces Command and Staff College, Jaji, Kaduna.

He listed lack of Standard Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs), accommodation, and communication gadgets as some challenges facing the command.

He said: “Recent developments in the area of national security are still fresh in our minds. These ugly experi-

E

•AIG Ogunsakin and Commodore Ofodile ... yesterday.

From Clarice Azuatalam, Port Harcourt

ences have shown that no security threat is negligible or should be underestimated.

“It may be incumbent on you in future; based on the training you have benefited from at the Defence College,

to assess the security situation along our land borders, air space or territorial waters and advise authorities objectively.”

The leader of the team, Navy Commodore Obi Ofodile, said they were in the command to understudy the

police in the zone.

The visit, according him, would afford the team a first-hand knowledge on how the police and navy personnel collaborate in the discharge of their duties, especially in the maritime domain.

•Jega

advantage of that.

“But in the governorship elections, we ensured that the Card Reader machines worked. We warned the RECs they will be held responsible for any Card Reader that did not work properly.”

Jega added that about 20,000 permanent voter cards were not produced, because the person involved was arrested by the police for allegation that he gave the card reader’s password to a political party.

The INEC chairman admitted that his agency did not do enough to prosecute electoral offenders during the 2011 elections because, according to him, “we were overwhelmed by the sheer number of offenders”.

He expressed delight that INEC was in partnership with the police and the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) to prosecute electoral offenders.

Jega urged those with evidence on electoral offences to bring such to the commission, assuring that such will be investigated and tried in court.

Earlier, Situation Room’s Coordinator and Executive Director of the Policy and Legal Advocacy Centre (PLAC) Clement Nwankwo, restated the group’s position on the elections in Rivers State.

He said: “Situation Room has expressed its concern about the conduct of the elections in Rivers and Akwa Ibom states, where there are good grounds to question the credibility of the election results in both states.

There are also concerns about Abia State, which recorded multiple cases of electoral misconduct.”

Nwankwo said there were complaints about Resident Electoral Commissioners’ relationship with politicians.

Country Representative of Britain’s Department for International Development (DFID) in Nigeria Catherine Weiss, hailed INEC for a job well done.

Transporters fault Akpabio on donation of buses

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HE Akwa Ibom chapter of the Nigeria Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) has decried Governor Godswill Akpabio’s donation of 70 buses to the Progressive Commercial, Tricycles, Taxi and Motorcyclists Association (APCOTMA) .

The governor at the wake of the 2015 campaigns, donated the buses to APCOTMA in fulfillment of his promise to the union in 2011.

But NURTW, after its meeting yesterday in Uyo, the

From Kazeem Ibrahym, Uyo

state capital, urged Akpabio to stop the distribution of the buses.

The union threatened to shut down its operation and allow only APCOTMA to operate if the governor went ahead to distribute the buses.

State chapter Chairman Uwen James described the donation as a slap on the integrity of the union and called for calm in order to resolve the matter.

The chairman said: “It is no

longer news that the Akwa Ibom State has released the 70 buses to APCOTMA. We learnt that the buses have been given to the Chairman, Udo Okpong. Tempers have risen and reactions have come from various angles.

“We have considered that there is a missing link, it is either that the commissioner of Transport is not doing his work or his hands are tied in this matter and as such has allowed the governor acted the way he did.

“The fact is that we are not

coming here for a protest against the government because we know the governor reserves the right to give to whoever he pleases, but we have to use this means to impress on the governor to reconsider the issue of the of the buses.”

He also said Akpabio deceived his members to open accounts with the First Bank for the release of the Federal Government’s subsidy fund meant to cushion the effect of the hike in prices of fuel in 2012, which he regretted

never came till date.

APCOTMA Chairman Udo Okpong dismissed the threat

by NURTW to shut down its operation in the state as empty.

His words: “That is a mere political talk, which is not going to work. We control all the motor parks, and we have our members all over.”

He said the release of the buses was to fulfill the governor’s priomise to the union in 2011 after announcing the ban on the operation of motorcycles.

DO State Governor Adams Oshiohmole has urged the leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) to engage the incoming administration on industrial policies that would improve the economy.

Oshiohmole spoke yesterday when he paid a congratulatory visit to the NLC President, Dr Ayuba Wabba, for his victory in the labour movement election in Abuja.

He said it was time for the leadership of NLC to unite with those aggrieved over the outcome of the election and not to waste valuable time and energy over electoral dispute.

“It is time for the NLC to focus on how to reposition the union and engage the incoming administration to champion the interest of the common man.‘’ Oshiohmole said the labour movement had lost huge mileage and goodwill in the eyes of its members, members of the public and employers.

He added that NLC had a huge task at hand with the incoming administration, stressing that the process of rebuilding the nation’s economy must begin with the union.

“I think at this point in time, Nigeria Labour Congress has a huge task of rebuilding the movement, because there is no doubt that you have lost a lot of mileage and a lot of goodwill in the eyes of ordinary Nigerians.”

PENGASSAN condemns attacks

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HE Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) yesterday condemned the xenophobic attacks on migrants in South Africa.

In a statement signed by PENGASSAN’s National Public Relations Officer, Comrade Emmanuel Ojugbana in Abuja, the association urged the country’s government to take urgent measures to end the attacks on foreigners.

The oil workers union demanded that the South African government should ensure that the perpetrators of this heinous crime that led to the death of many foreigners were brought to book.

It said the report was disturbing, adding that there was no justification for the act.

“There should be no basis to justify any xenophobic act in South Africa, which the world is greatly admiring as a model in the handling of multi-racial state status.

“By our divergent background and orientation, the process of interrelating and building consensus is key for harmonisation of conflictual views and standpoints.

“Conflicts and disputes are sometimes inevitable, but must be managed in a manner that lives, properties and interests would not be put in jeopardy.

“The South African Government on its part, must ensure that the xenophobic act is expediently and permanently apprehended and never should it happen again.”

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THE NATION WEDNESDAY APRIL 22, 2015

NEWS Ajimobi thanks indigenes From Bisi Oladele, Ibadan

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YO State Governor Abiola Ajimobi has thanked the people of Oke Ogun for voting for the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Accompanied by his deputy, Chief Moses Alake Adeyemo, members of the Executive Council and APC stalwarts, Ajimobi arrived at the zone through Iseyin and was received by a crowd of APC supporters and residents.

The team visited Ayetoro, Iwere Ile and Ilero, in Kajola Local Government Area as well as Iganna in Iwajowa Local Government Area.

The governor assured residents that his administration would improve on the socioeconomic and physical development of the zone.

The governor addressed community leaders in Saki on the OYSADEP premises in Saki-West Local Government Area.

Ajimobi assured the people that APC would not disappoint them, pledging that Oke Ogun would witness transformation in his second term.

•Ajimobi addressing the people of Okeho,...yesterday

Fayose’s supporters hang around Ambode sets up Assembly complex transition panel A

AGOS State Governorelect Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode has inaugurated a transition committee.

A statement by his media aide, Idowu Ajanaku, said the committee is headed by the Deputy Governor-elect, Dr. Oluranti Adebule.

Other members are Prof Ademola Abass; Mr. Babatunde Rotinwa; Mr. Fola Olalekan Lasisi; Mrs. Rafiquat Onabamiro; Mr. Tunde Durosimi-Etti; Dr. Femi Onanuga; Mr. Ade Akinsanya; Mr. Akeem Sulaimon and Mr. Dele Onabokun.

The committee is to begin work immediately and submit its report in four weeks.

Ambode thanked the committee for its willingness to take up the challenge.

Mrs. Adebule thanked the governor-elect for giving them the opportunity to serve.

She promised that the team will work assiduously to make the job a success within the time frame,

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Fire guts shops

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HERE was a fire yesterday at the popular Maggi shop at Sabon Gari Market in Kano, destroying parts of the one-storey building.

An eye witness told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that the incident occurred at 11:30 a.m.

According to the witness, the fire was caused by a generator on the first floor.

The witness said the quick intervention of firemen prevented the fire from spreading. ‘’No life was lost but one person, who was said to have jumped from the building,was injured,’’ the witness said.

The Director of the State Fire Service, Balarabe Kabara, told NAN that the fire was caused by a small generator at the first floor of the building.

He said scraps from disused radio and television sets were destroyed by the inferno.

CADEMIC activities resumed yesterday in private and public schools in Ekiti State, following security scare over alleged plan by the 19 All Progressives Congress (APC) lawmakers to resume legislative business.

The schools were to resume on Monday.

A visit to some schools by our reporter yesterday showed that lessons were going on.

In many private schools, parents were seen bringing their wards; some of them were sorting out payment of school fees.

School buses operated their shuttle service to convey pupils, who were waiting at various bus stops.

Teachers and pupils expressed their delight in beginning the new term.

In public secondary schools, some SS3 pupils were writing their West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE).

For the second day running, supporters of Governor Ayo Fayose came to the vicinity of the House of Assembly complex “waiting” for the APC lawmakers.

•Prosecute governor, APC tells NHRC, ICC •Schools resume From Odunayo Ogunmola, Ado-Ekiti

But the number of the People Democratic Party (PDP) members and sympathisers had thinned down, unlike the huge attendance on Monday.

Although they were not allowed near the parliamentary chambers by sternlooking security operatives, many of them still loitered around the vicinity.

Some people suspected to be thugs hid inside the bush around the Assembly wielding weapons and smoking marijuana.

Civil servants, many of who stayed away from work on Monday, reported for work yesterday.

Activities were going on at Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) throughout the day but the Monday incident formed the topic of discussion among civil servants.

The APC has urged the National Human Rights Com-

‘Fayose incited his supporters to attack the 19 APC lawmakers and prevented them from performing their constitutional duties’ mission (NHRC) and the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague to prosecute Fayose for “inciting” residents to violence.

Its Publicity Secretary, Taiwo Olatubosun, said this became imperative, following the killing of a man in Efon Alaaye and the near collapse of peace after the governor made a live broadcast on state media.

“Fayose incited his supporters to attack the 19 APC lawmakers and prevented

APC renews confidence in Tinubu, Ajomale

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HE All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos State yesterday said it has confidence in its National Leader, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

It decried the call for the removal of the party’s chairman, Chief Henry Ajomale.

In a communiqué by Chief Funso Ologunde (Vice Chairman) and Femi Saheed (Acting Secretary) after an emergency meeting of the Executive Committee in Lagos, members condemned the call for Ajomale’s resignation.

The communiqué reads: “That we, Executive Committee members of Lagos State APC, have confidence

in the state leadership of our party, National Leader Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and members of the Governor’s Advisory Committee (GAC).

“That we appreciate the contributions of Governor Babatunde Fashola in achieving this enviable victory.

“That we have confidence in Otunba Oladele Ajomale and commend him for the manner in which he had consistently steered the party’s ship since 2006 when he assumed office as chairman of the defunct Action Congress (AC).

“That we recall Ajomale’s hitherto achievements when both the defunct Action Congress (AC) and Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) swept seats in Lagos State, under his leadership between 2007 and 2011.

“Finally, we appeal to our loyal, committed, appreciative and diligent party members against being drawn into casting aspersion on party leaders, which could portray our party as a divided house.”

The party congratulated Governor-elect Akinwunmi Ambode and others elected or re-elected on its platform on March 28 and April 11.

them from performing their constitutional duties.

“A few weeks ago, the governor mobilised his supporters to confront the APC lawmakers, who were coming to perform their legal duties in the state.

“He earlier urged his supporters to defend his mandate at all cost.

“In obedience to his order, his supporters in Efon stormed the security checkpoint and engaged security agents in a gun battle. In the ensuing melee, Modupe Olaiya was killed.

“Fayose rented a woman to pose as Olaiya’s mother.

A few days later, the real mother showed up, raising the alarm that the impostor was a PDP woman leader.

“On Sunday, the governor made another broadcast, urging his supporters to prevent the lawmakers from sitting.”

The party urged the rights’ commission and ICC to investigate its earlier petitions, saying Fayose remained the greatest security risk to peace in Nigeria.

‘No escape route for Fayose’ From Odunayo Ogunmola, Ado-Ekiti

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HE All Progressives Congress (APC) Elders’ Forum in Ekiti State has said there is no escape route for Governor Ayo Fayose.

The group said Fayose breached the constitution, desecrated his office and should face the consequences of his actions.

Its Publicity Secretary, Dr. Bayo Orire, warned the military and the police against being used to frustrate the 19 APC lawmakers.

Condemning the military for preventing the APC lawmakers from entering Ado-Ekiti, the state capital, yesterday, Orire said the group was concerned about the “open partisanship of Army officials”.

The group’s head said a responsible House of Assembly was not expected to look the other way when the chief executive overstepped his bounds.

“The crux of the impeachment saga will emerge soon.

We were here when he emerged by sheer brute force and brigandage against all contending PDP aspirants.

“There is no escape route, either we do it by impeachment or by the court, either way he is going. If I were him, I would resign honourably.”

Lawmaker raises alarm on concoction

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HE senator representing Ondo South, Senator Boluwaji Kunlere, yesterday raised the alarm that some individuals were peddling dangerous mixtures and concoctions, which they claim could cure the strange desease.

Kunlere urged stakeholders, including the National Orientation Agency (NOA), to carry out an enlightenment in the coastal communities to prevent more deaths.

He said there was no doubt that the consumption of the concoction could led to more deaths.

From Onyedi Ojiabor, Assistant Editor

“The strange deaths at OdeIrele town is highly unfortunate.

“We are still getting conflicting signals. Some are attributing it to mysterious spirits, some to ethanol, and some to exhumation of a body.

“What is of concern to us now is that some people are mixing local gin with some soapy substances.

“It is dangerous when people mix concoction and described it as a magic elixir to take care of certain ailments (Oogun ategun).”

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THE NATION WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22, 2015

NEWS

Ondo Assembly serves Olanusi impeachment notice

Ogun water scheme closed

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HE Ondo State House of Assembly yesterday served the Deputy Governor, Ali Olanusi, a notice of impeachment for alleged gross misconduct.

The crisis between Governor Olusegun Mimiko and Olanusi deepened, following the deputy governor’s defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Last Monday, Olanusi was assaulted by suspected thugs, who prevented him from entering the Government House.

Some of the allegations levelled against him includefinancial misappropriation, absence from official duties and allegedly causing political disaffection in the execu-

‘Nobody can impeach deputy governor’ A GROUP, Akoko Elite Forum (AEF), has criticised Ondo State Governor Olusegun Mimiko for “planning to impeach” his deputy, Alhaji Ali Olanusi.

At a meeting, hosted by the senator representing Ondo North, Prof Ajayi Boroffice, the group said Mimiko and Olanusi were elected on the platform of the Labour Party (LP).

It said when the governor moved to the Peoples DemoFrom Damisi Ojo, Akure

tive council.

The impeachment notice was signed by 20 of the 26 lawmakers.

The Majority Leader, Ifedayo Akinsoyinu (Ondo West II) moved the motion. It was seconded by Yinka Banso (Ako-

ko North West I).

The Speaker, Mrs. Jumoke Akindele, said the action was in line with the 1999 Constitution.

The APC has described the reported impeachment plot as a notice in futility.

A statement by its Publicity Secretary, Abayomi Adesanya, said the party is aware of the

From Damisi Ojo,Akure

cratic Party (PDP), the deputy governor complained that the defection was not in the interest of the people.

AEF, in a statement by its President, Ayo Aradu and Vice President Boye Ologbese, maintained that Olanusi had not violated the constitution nor embezzled government funds.

The group maintained that if Mimiko had the right to move to PDP, the deputy governor could move to APC. purported impeachment notice.

It said Olanusi had written to Mimiko on April 17 that he was going on routine medical check-up outside the country.

The APC said Olanusi had since travelled out of the country on April 18.

The party described as

laughable the House of Assembly’s claim that it served the deputy governor a notice.

APC said the lawmakers know that the law does not permit service of impeachment notice in absential.

Group greets Buhari, Ambode

Referendum for new LCDAs

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HE National Coordinator, Action Support Democracy Group of Nigeria, Johnson Olakunle, has congratulated the President-elect, General Muhammadu Buhari and the Lagos State Governorelect, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode.

In a congratulatory letter, Olakunle described the success of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as a proof that APC is the choice of the people.

The National Coordinator urged them to fulfil the promises they made to the electorate.

He advised Ambode to build on the legacies of his predecessors, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu and Governor Babatunde Fashola.

Olakunle praised the doggedness of all APC leaders across the country.

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•From left: National Universities Commission Representative, Prof. Adebisi Balogun; Vice Chancellor, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), Ogbomoso, Prof Adeniyi Gbadegesin; Pro- Chancellor, Prof Wale Omole; Convocation Lecturer, Prof Foluso Okunmadewa and President, Ibadan Business School, Yinka Fasuiyi at LAUTECH’s 12th Convocation lecture, Nigeria: Protecting the Vulnerable From Oil Price Shock, in Ogbomoso, Oyo State.

Lagos now centre of study, says Fashola

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AGOS State Governor Babatunde Fashola has said the state has finally dropped its previous toga of “dirtiest city” and has become the “center of study”.

Fashola spoke yesterday at the opening of the seventh edition of the Lagos Climate Change summit.

The governor said the ability to sustain climate change mitigations and continuous development of adaption strategies would help preserve nature and its gifts.

He said: “As we have heard from conservation experts, nature and the environment do not need us, but we need them. They will evolve, can we evolve?

“Nature and environment have been here long before we came.

“The greater challenge, therefore, is for us to understand how to preserve nature’s gifts,

•Governor harps on need to sustain climate change mitigation

By Muyiwa Lucas and Miriam Ekene-Okoro

to adapt to nature’s evolution, mitigate against the hazards of the environment and seek for sustainability in all that we do.”

Taking an appraisal of his administration’s effort at making the environment conducive, Fashola recalled that when he started with tree planting and greening of the environment, many criticised the efforts.

Today, he said, the effort has yielded results, such as the planting of five million trees, establishment of 196 parks, creation of 90, 000 jobs, amongst others.

“I am proud to announce the success of our greening programme. Even our greatest critics cannot deny that our

greening programme is a success.”

He thanked Lagosians for their support and appealed for support for the Governor-elect, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode.

“To you all, my gratitude is deep and profound. The only thing I can add is to make a request, that as I yield the baton of government to our governor-elect, you will not drop the baton.

“I urge you to give him more support than you have given to me to continue this awareness.

“Every year, our summit has been built around a theme that seeks to highlight issues of conservation, mitigations, adaptation, vulnerability and their impacts on our lives.

“From transportation to

housing, infrastructure and reproduction, life expectancy, businesses and general wellbeing, poverty or prosperity, the environment has played a crucial role and so we ignore it to our own peril.”

The governor said this year’s theme provided government with the opportunity to measure progress, assess what has not been overcome and chart a course for the future.

“Not even our critics can deny the success and the fact that we are leaving a greener Lagos behind.”

British High Commissioner to Nigeria Martins Uden said: “Let me commend Governor Fashola for his visionary leadership.

“A look into this year’s summit agenda shows the broad

range of issues from waste management to public transportation, green economy, and sustainable solution in energy generation, distribution and sustainable development.”

Representative of the German Consul General, Mitchel Deruz, said the relationship between Germany and Nigeria in the area of renewable energy has increased.

He said: “Over the last seven years, bilateral relations between Nigeria and Germany have increased considerably.

“A lot has to be done by everyone in mitigating against the threat posed by climate change.

“For instance, the threats posed by gas flaring. There is need for African leaders to cooperate and show more commitment in the fight against climate change.”

ECOWAS, Biden hail Jonathan for statesmanship

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HE Chairman of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and Ghanaian President, John Mahama, yesterday praised President Goodluck Jonathan for conceding defeat to the President-elect, Gen. Muhammadu Buhari.

He conveyed ECOWAS’s commendation while speaking with reporters after a meeting with Jonathan at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

According to him, his visit was to extend ECOWAS commendation and praise to Nigerians.

He said: “If you recall before the elections, on behalf of

HE Ogun State Water Corporation has shut down its biggest water works, the Abeokuta Main Water Scheme, Arakanga, in Abeokuta North Local Government.

This followed the rehabilitation of the scheme, which can pump 162 million litres per day.

The corporation’s General Manager, Mrs. Monsurat Agboola, said the exercise would last seven days.

She said the corporation’s old water scheme in Iberekodo has been placed on 24 hours service.

“We are carrying out an enormous repair work at this location as you can see.

“For now, we have shut down the major system that supplies Abeokuta and we are on the smaller scheme.

“The smaller scheme will be on for 24 hours daily while repair works at the main scheme lasts,” she added.

From Augustine Ehikioya and Vincent Ikuomola, Abuja

ECOWAS, I gave a solidarity message to Nigerians to step up and consolidate your democracy by having peaceful, free and transparent elections.

“And I believe that the world is congratulating you on the peace and stability that has continued to endure both before, during and after the elections.

“I have been talking with President Jonathan on several issues in respect to ECOWAS. “We are due to have a summit and we discussed issues about the summit and a few

outstanding issues relating to ECOWAS. “I also took the opportunity to praise him for the statesmanship that was displayed after the election.

“I feel that was a very great sign of maturity and he has earned the respect of all Nigerians and the international community.

“We expect a smooth transition and hail the role that Nigeria played in ECOWAS, being the biggest economy not only in our sub region but on the continent.”

The Ghanaian President also praised the Chairman of the Independent National Elector-

al Commission (INEC), Prof Attahiru Jega for successfully conducting free fair and credible elections.

Mahama hailed INEC’s role as an unbaised umpire.

He spoke during a visit to the INEC headquarters in Abuja United States Vice-President Joe Biden also praised Jonathan for his statesmanship.

A statement by the U.S Diplomatic Mission in Nigeria said Biden spoke with Jonathan in a telephone conversation from Washington D.C. “Vice-President Joe Biden spoke today with President Goodluck Jonathan to com-

mend him for his leadership in ensuring Nigeria’s recent elections were peaceful and orderly.

“The vice president noted that President Jonathan’s actions to accept the results and congratulate President-elect Buhari has strengthened Nigeria’s democracy.’’

The statement stated that Jonathan had, by his action, set a strong example for Africa and the world.

“The vice president encouraged President Jonathan to remain engaged and play a leadership role in global issues after his presidency ends,’’ the statement added.

GUN State Governor Ibikunle Amosun has said his administration would conduct a referendum before May 29 for the establishment of Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs).

The governor spoke when he hosted members of the Egba Traditional Council, led by the Alake of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Gbadebo, who paid him a congratulatory visit on his re-election.

According to him, the LCDA would further bring the benefits of governance to the people.

Amosun said his second term would be a new beginning of turn around development in all facets, adding that the only way to show appreciation for his victory was through greater performance.

“We will work for all and sundry without any form of segregation. My appreciation to our people for re-electing me could better be shown through the kind of work we are going to do. Activities would soon begin on our light rail which would be extended to Agbara Industrial axis.”

INEC declares PDP winner in Ilaje From Leke Akeredolu, Akure

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HE Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) yesterday upheld the verdict of the returning officers for the April 11 House of Assembly elections for Ilaje one and two constituencies, which declared the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidates winners.

INEC, through the Resident Electoral Commissioner, Segun Agbaje, had earlier declared the election inconclusive based on reports from a returning officer, who said he was forced to declare the result under threat.

A statement by Agbaje said the commission will declare the PDP candidates- Abayomi Akinruntan (Ilaje 1) and Malachi Coker (Ilaje II)- winners of the election .

He advised those not satisfied with the outcome of the election to seek redress at the appropriate quarters.

With this declaration, the PDP has 21 seats and the APC five.

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22, 2015

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CITYBEATS

CITYBEATS LINE: 09091178827

How we got back our girl,

by Ajeleros

Drugs led me to robbery, says suspect

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50-year-old man, Tokunbo Ojo, has said his love for cocaine and Indian hemp led him to armed robbery.

According to police, Ojo was arrested on April 6 for using a master key to open the door of a parked car on Yaya Abatan Street in Ogba, Lagos, carting away laptops, expensive phones, wrist watch and money.

He said: “I used to take drugs like cocaine but I usually mix it with N20 marijuana as cocaine is N100 a wrap and I take it five times a day. I have operated three times. One was at Agege, the second at Iyana-Ipaja and the third is at Abule-Egba. It was this fourth one at Ogba that I was arrested and transferred to the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) Lagos State Police Command.

“I have not achieved anything.

Drug only damages my life and did not give me chance to take care of my children and wife. I am sorry for myself. It is drug that pushed me to stealing. My wife is even tired of persuading me to stop taking drug.

Fortunately my being detained in SARS cell has helped me to stop taking drug. My 15 days in detention has removed all the cocaine in my body. I will not take cocaine again. My detention in SARS is a blessing in disguise.”

The father of two said he was a one-man squad.

“People suspected me of steal-

HE Ajeleros, who were reunited with their kidnapped daughter, Olubunmi, on Monday night, spoke yesterday on her safe return.

Mrs Toyin Ajelero, mother of the three-year-old girl, said the family did not pay a ransom for her.

Bunmi was kidnapped from the Surulere Baptist Church in Lagos on Sunday. She was released in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital on Monday night.

Mrs Ajelero said yesterday that Olubunmi is in good health.

“She has been playing around with her siblings, jumping up and down. You know how it is reuniting with your family members.

She is extremely happy to see her daddy who she is very close to,” she said.

She thanked all for their support and prayers, especially members of Surulere Baptist Church.

“I can’t thank people enough, the leaders of Surulere Baptist Church for standing by us all through; they are all wonderful people,” she said.

Ogun State Police Public Relations Officer Olumuyiwa Adejobi said the girl was sighted in a church at Oke Sokori area of Abeokuta on Monday evening crying.

The villagers, who were attracted by her cry, he said, informed Adigbe Divisional Police Headquarters, Abeokuta, that rescued

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•The Ajeleros at the church...on Monday night

By Tajudeen Adebanjo and Ernest Nwokolo, Abeokuta

her.

The girl was first handed over to the Juvenile and Women Centre of the Police.

Adejobi confirmed that the kidnappers demanded N300, 000 ransom for the girl, promising to drop her where the parents could find her.

He said the girl was seen with a note bearing a Lagos pastor’s telephone number.

According to Adejobi, the phone number was dropped ostensibly to help locate her after the criminals’ transaction with her family but the rescue effort terminated that. He said no ransom was paid, adding that the command recently rescued three babies who were kidnapped

in other states.

Adejobi said his Commissioner, Val Mtomchukwu, is planning to liaise with his counterpart in Lagos State on how to curb kidnapping.

There was jubilation at Surulere Baptist Church on Ojuelegba Road on Monday when Mr Ajelero in a stripe shirt and cream trousers emerged with his daughter.

He was accompanied by some church leaders, who accompanied him to Abeokuta where Olubunmi was found.

Their praise songs attracted passersby.

Mrs Ajelero could not control her emotion on sighting her daughter.

She carried and hugged her.

They went to the altar where special prayers were offered for the family.

NDLEA arrests two for ‘drug ingestion’

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TIMBER merchant, Olusegun Ojo (59) and an electronics dealer, Igweibuike Obinna (47), are in the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) net for alleged drug trafficking.

They were arrested at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) in Ikeja, Lagos, during their trips to the United States (U.S) and United Kingdom (U.K) Ojo was caught during the outward screening of passengers on a Delta Airline flight to New York, U.S; Obinna was nabbed on a Virgin Atlantic flight to Heathrow in London.

NDLEA airport commander Hamza Umar said preliminary investigation showed that Ojo, who hails from Ilesa, Osun State, ingested 75 wraps of substances that tested positive for heroin weighing 1.090kg. Obinna, from Anambra State inserted six wraps in his anus and ingested 11 wraps making a total of 17 wraps of cocaine weighing 335 gramms.

Ojo said his involvement in drug trafficking was due to financial hardship.

“I am married to two wives with five children. My problem started in 2013 when I lost N2 million to fraudsters. In the process, I became indebted and had been running from pillar to post without any solution. A young man introduced

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15-year-old orphan, Ikechukwu Ike, has been reported missing.

His guardian Pius Ibeh said he went missing on April 2.

Ike was said to have been caught one night having carnal knowledge of Ibeh’s six-year-old son while the infant was asleep.

He was punished for the act and promised not to engage in it again.

“At about 8pm on April 2, the young Ike was about having his

•Ojo

By Ebele Boniface

ing laptops, money, phones, wrist watches from parked vehicles and I was arrested while trying to do it again at Ogba 15 days ago. I am a one-man squad because it is risky to allow somebody to join because his mistake can bring about your arrest. I collected only two laptops. I just started,” he said.

Ojo said he regretted his action, adding: “My wife is a motor agent; she buys motor for people and company that requested for vehicles and she does it on contract basis as she is after commission.”

‘He doesn’t last in bed’ •Man: she’s an adulteress

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•Ojo

•Obinna

By Kelvin Osa Okunbor

me into drug trafficking to enable me pay my debts. Initially, I dismissed the suggestion but when my condition was not getting better, I decided to take the risk. The $10, 000 they promised me would have gone a long way in solving my problem. This is my first time of smuggling drugs,” Ojo said.

Obinna said he would have made N1 million from the deal.

“I sell electronics at Alaba market in Lagos. I agreed to smuggle drugs because I would have made N1 million to invest in my business. I also needed money to take care of my family. I am married with two children,” he said.

NDLEA Chairman/Chief Executive Ahmadu Giade said it was gladdening that the number of arrests has reduced on the U.S. and U.K. routes, adding: “We are working very hard to replicate similar feats on others.”

Orphan missing

By Nneka Nwaneri

dinner. He was given permission to prepare Eba and that was the last that was seen of him,” Ibeh said.

According to him, some neighbours saw him that night leaving their residence at 68, Palm Avenue in Mushin, Lagos.

It was also reported that he went away with some of his new

clothes and shoes.

“During the holidays, he leaves each morning to attend lessons in school at New City Primary School, Mushin, but when he got missing and was reported to the school authorities, the school management said no such lessons were held during the election period for security purposes,” Ibeh said.

Ike is the cousin of Ibeh and

A 30-year-old businesswoman, Mrs Ifeanyi Osame, yesterday asked an Igando Customary Court in Lagos, to dissolve her nine-yearold marriage for her husband’s alleged failure to satisfyher in bed.

Mrs Osame said: “My husband cannot perform well, he is not doing his job at all and that always makes me sad. My husband does not satisfy me, he does not last a minute on bed.”

The petitioner said she forcefully took her husband to a hospital to confirm what was wrong with him, and it was discovered that he had low sperm count.

“My husband has low sperm count. I bought the drugs prescribed by the doctor for him, but he refused to use them. His refusal to take the drugs always causes us to fight, because I need a child. We have been married for nine years without any issue,’’ she said.

Mrs Osame said her husband was always on the road for months, leaving her lonely at home, adding that he could sometimes stay away for three months, or more. hails from Umuchu in Aguata Local Government Area of Anambra State. He is the only child of his late parents.

A family member, Mr Kelechi Tonti, described the missing boy as quiet, humble and industrious.

“He never complains and runs errands well. I fear this will make someone abuse or harm him,” he said.

The matter has been reported at the Olosan Police Station in Mushin.

She begged the court to dissolve the marriage, saying she could no longer cope as her love for him has waned.

The Defendant, Samuel Osame, a 40-year-old businessman, admitted that he had low sperm count, saying he believes in God for a miracle.

Osame said he was trying his best to satisfy his wife, accusing her of infidelity.

He accused her of having extra marital affairs, saying men always called her at odd hours.

“My wife is committing adultery, there was a day I saw a text message she sent to her man friend. I showed her the text, but instead of her to apologise, she warned me not to touch her phone. My wife always goes out without telling me and comes back at 11pm and whenever I query her, she would tell me she owns her life.

“And anytime she comes home, she will enter her room and lock me out,” Osame said.

He urged the court to save his marriage, saying he still loves his wife.

The court President, Hakeem Oyekan, adjourned the case till May 11.

•Ike

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22, 2015

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CITYBEATS Fire guts sawmill, building, bank F IRE yesterday swept through Oko-Baba Sawmill in Ebutemeta, Lagos Mainland; a bank and a building, destroying Properties worth millions of naira.

Traders at the sawmill are counting their losses to the fire, which reportedly began around 2a.m.

“I received a phone call around 3am that the market had been destroyed. I was confused. I didn’t know what to do but to see for myself. On getting there, I almost passed out. The only thing I could picture was my machines; generators and planks I just bought. Oh! God why me? How will I move on?”, said John Ezenye, who claimed to have lost equipment worth N12million.

Ezenye said the planks he just ordered were still at the shoreline because he thought he was going to pay his supplier after yesterday’s sales.

The cause of the fire is yet to be ascertained but some traders believed it could be the carelessness of those who sleep in the market.

Another trader, Niyi Ak-

By Basirat Braimah

inloye, said that was the second time his goods would be destroyed.

“What else can I do than to accept my fate? I just sawed some woods yesterday (Monday) and anticipated my customers who promised to come today (yesterday). I am pained you don’t need to ask. I just hope favour comes from somewhere,” Akinloye said.

Another trader, simply called Alhaja, said she lost her office to the fire.

“I lost so many things. I had vital documents there.

All the logs of wood I cut yesterday (Monday) got burnt. I will be depressed if I continue to count my losses,” she said.

Secretary, Lagos Mainland Saw Millers F Ward Oye Agbujeloye praised the fire fighters saying: “I learnt that it was probably due to carelessness of some individuals who sleep in the market. I know it wasn’t deliberately destroyed because we are

•The burnt market...yesterday

like a family here. This is another challenge and we must continue. I plead with the government to assist us because we also pay some dues to them. They should rescue us because some of us have employees who have

PHOTO: BASIRAT BRAIMAH

families to fend for.”

He added that four industrial generators were burnt.

There was panic at a branch of Ecobank on Oba Ogunnusi Road, Omole, Lagos, when fire gutted its generator. The generator is out-

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who allegedly stabbed her ex-boyfriend, Olanrewaju, with a broken bottle, was yesterday brought before an Apapa Magistrate’s Court in Lagos.

Olayinka, a resident of Ijora Badia in Lagos, is facing a two-count charge of conspiracy and unlawful assault.

Prosecuting police officer Friday Inedu told the court that the accused committed the offences on March 17 at 23, Asoju Street, Ijora-Badia.

Inedu said the accused conspired with others at large to beat Olanrewaju and also stab him with a broken bottle.

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“The fire at the boys’ quarter was due to electrical surge. Immediately we got the information, I deployed men from Alausa and Ogba to the scenes. Thank God, there was no casualty,” he said

The complainant, he said, described the accused as his exgirlfriend.

He said Olayinka and others stabbed him with broken bottles on the body, accusing him of cheating.

Inedu said the offence contravened Section 243 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2011.

The accused pleaded not guilty.

Senior Magistrate Adeyemi Amos granted the accused N50, 000 bail with one surety in the like sum.

He adjourned the case till April 23 for further hearing.

Boy, 16, ‘defiles’ girl, two •Ahiuma-Young on his hospital bed...yesterday

•Carts away cash

By Precious Igbonwelundu

torcycle thieves snatching people’s bags as they come out from the bank but have never really seen them shooting someone this much,” said one of the female jewellers by the foot of the pedestrian bridge.

According to her, the incident took place around 10am very close to the bank on the expressway.

However, The Nation gathered that Ahiuma-Young’s attack was the 15th since November last year.

Traders at the bridge claim that a similar incident

happened last month where a teenager whose father had given money he withdrew from the same bank was attacked and his wrist cut by motorcycle robbers.

They expressed worry at the spate of robberies given that there is a Police Station not so far from the bus stop, just as they berated the late arrival of policemen from the Olosan Division, who came after the robbery.

It was learnt that AhiumaYoung while trying to scare his attackers away, picked a stone which he hauled at them but received another gunshot on his hand as he tried to pick another stone.

With the final bullet hit-

ting his hand, the money was said to have fallen off, which the robbers hurriedly picked up before escaping on their motorcycle.

The journalist was said to have bled severely with onlookers unwilling to assist him fearing he may die and land them in trouble.

Sensing that help was far from him, Ahiuma-Young was said to have staggered towards May Clinic, not too far from the scene where doctors on duty attended to him and extracted 13 pellets from his thighs before referring him to Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) for proper medical attention.

Man, 31, in court for alleged N53.6m theft 31-year-old man, Kehinde Lateef, on Monday appeared before a Tinubu Chief Magistrate’s Court in Lagos for allegedly stealing N53.6 million from Sterling Bank.

Lateef, a former student of Lagos City Polytechnic, lives at 16, Igbeyin Adun Street, Ikorodu, Lagos.

He pleaded not guilty to the three-count charge of conspiracy and stealing.

Prosecuting Assistant Su-

side the bank.

A boys’ quarters at 46, Adegbola Street in Alakuko, Lagos, was also razed by fire.

Director of the State Fire Service Rasaq Fadipe said four rooms in the boys’ quarter got damaged.

Woman docked for ‘stabbing’ 20-year-old woman, ex-boyfriend Abiola Olayinka,

‘Armed robbers’ shoot journalist HERE was panic on the busy OshodiApapa Expressway yesterday after suspected armed robbers attacked and shot a journalist.

The victim identified as Victor Ahiuma-Young was waylaid by two gunmen around Sadiku Bus stop, Ilasamaja after he left a commercial bank where he had gone to withdraw some money.

Eyewitnesses said that Ahiuma-Young, an Assistant Labour Editor with Vanguard Newspaper had stopped by a vendor’s stand, few metres from the pedestrian bridge to buy some newspapers when his attackers who rode on a motorcycle, accosted him, demanding the money he withdrew from the bank.

“As he was looking at the papers, one of the men shot him on the thigh and ordered him to hand over the money he withdrew to them.

“When he turned to see what was wrong, another shot was fired at him, which made everyone at the bus stop to run for safety.

“We have seen these mo-

CITYBEATS LINE: 09091178827

perintendent of Police (ASP) Chidi Okoye, however said Lateef committed the offences with others, who are now at large, on February 22, at Sterling Bank Headquarters on the Marina in Lagos.

He said the accused stole N53.6 million by making illegal transfers online through the bank’s Nigeria Interbank Settlement System (NIBBS) Instant Payment platform from two customers’ accounts.

“The accused was able to gain access to the bank’s system because he was a student on industrial attachment in the year 2013 at the time of the fraud. He made the illegal transactions to accounts domiciled in other banks,” the police said.

Okoye said the transactions were blocked when the bank discovered the illegal transfers.

“While N52.5 million was salvaged, N1.1million was already withdrawn by

Lateef and his syndicate.

After thorough investigations, Lateef was apprehended after two years,’’ he said.

According to the prosecutor, the offences contravene Sections 285 and 409 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2011.

Magistrate A.O. Awogboro granted Lateef N200, 000 bail with two sureties in the like sum.

He adjourned the case to May 6.

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16-year-old boy, who allegedly defiled a two-year-old girl, was yesterday arraigned in an Apapa Magistrate’s Court in Lagos.

The accused, who lives at Ijora Badia area in Lagos, is standing trial for child rape.

The Prosecutor, Soji Ojaokomo, told the court that the accused committed the offence on April 16.

Ojaokomo said the accused lured the girl into a lonely place when her mother went to get food for her.

“The accused took the girl to an uncompleted building beside the house and defiled her. Her mother started looking for her child on her return and she asked her neighbour, who said she left the girl to play outside with oth-

er children.

“The mother said while she was searching for her child, she heard her screaming from an uncompleted building beside the house.

“When she got there, she saw the accused satisfying his carnal desires with the child,” he said.

He said the offence contravened Section 137 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State.

Magistrate Patrick Adekomaiya ordered that the case file should be forwarded to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) for legal advice.

The accused pleaded not guilty.

The magistrate granted the accused N50, 000 bail with two sureties in the like sum and adjourned the case to May 5.

Bus conductors charged with assault

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WO bus conductors — Wasiu Lawal and Michael Judge - yesterday appeared before an Igbosere Magistrate’s Court in Lagos for allegedly damaging a palm wine seller’s eye.

Lawal (30) and Judge (29) live at Small Kuramo, off Lekki Beach Road in Lagos.

They are standing trial on a two-count charge of conspiracy and assault.

Prosecuting police Sergeant Babaji Ishiaku told the court

that the accused committed the offences on April 8.

He said the accused punched Edet Okon, a palm wine seller, in the eye, causing him partial blindness.

The offences contravened Sections 171 and 409 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State.

The accused pleaded not guilty.

Magistrate L.Y. Balogun granted them N50, 000 bail with one surety each in the like sum.

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THE NATION WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22, 2015

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22, 2015

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THE NATION WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22, 2015

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22, 2015

Life

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Text only: 08023058761

•Gen. Buhari

Buhari: Patron or lover of arts?

– SEE STORY ON PAGE 16

•

109 authors for NLNG Literature Prize – PAGE 48

Music and my life – PAGE 48

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22, 2015

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The Midweek Magazine

E-mail:- ozoluauhakheme@yahoo.com

Going by his antecedent, President–Elect Muhammadu Buhari may not be a frontline patron of the arts. But, some of his contributions qualify him as a lover of the arts. Former Deputy Editor of The Guardian Mr BEN TOMOLOJU reflects on the cultural legacies Buhari left behind between December 1983 and August 1985 as Head of State.

Buhari: patron or lover of arts?

Beyond his discipline and strict disposition, is Buhari a man of culture?

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HANK you. But I wish not to take the issue of discipline for granted in assessing a man of culture.

Whether it is in terms of environment, society, a people’s spiritual engagement and world-view, or their creative and inventive capacities, discipline is paramount. So your admission concerning ‘his discipline’ presupposes, in the first place that he is a man of culture. A man of culture has the potential of being visionary, though his effort at making such vision a reality is a different kettle of fish. A man or woman of culture exudes great passion in pursuit whatever he or she considers a societal ideal. In the same vein, a man or woman of culture cherishes ideas and lives by them; which saying that he is a dynamic agent of enlightenment who applies his vast intellectual resources to the development of society.

By these parameters, I believe that General Buhari can be described as a man of culture except for aspects of the last criterion where he had a terrible reputation in press censorship and the jailing of Fela Anikulapo-Kuti when he was a military Head-of-State.

It is an established cultural imperative that a good statesman must be a patron of the arts. One cannot say precisely now that Buhari is a patron of the arts judging by his record nearly thirty years. Yet, for some who governed Nigeria for a year and seven months or so, he had a few points that qualified him to be referred to as a lover of the arts. But he must go beyond being a lover of the arts to that of a grand patron of the arts in his present, re-nascent presidential status.

What were the cultural legacies of Buhari as Head-of-State between December 1983 and August, 1986?

Yes, I believe it was General Buhari’s military administration that laid the foundation for an enhanced ministerial status for the cultural sector. And this is very very important.

Before his administration, culture was lumped into one ministerial behemoth called Ministry of Information, Youth, Sports and Culture.

But sometime in 1986, the Buhari administration appointed a Federal Sole-Administrator for Culture and Archives in the person of Colonel Tunde Akogun. The Federal SoleAdministrator, by that appointment was equivalent to the present-day Minister of State and he reported directly to the Supreme Military Council. This initiative of the Buhari administration, however shortlived, energised the cultural sector, although not without some sour experiences.

Can you be specific in this regard?

On the positive side, the Sole-Administrator restructured the sector. The Department of Culture and Archives was split. The two former divisions became autonomous departments in their own rights.

But, beyond this, Buhari set up the panel on the review of Theatre and Film, chaired by seasoned University don and Artistic Director, Mr. Bayo Oduneye. Some of the members included, pioneering culture administrator and poet, Mr Frank Aig-Imoukhuede, Mr. Ben Murray-Bruce and representatives from other relevant ministries, including the police and armed forces. The recommendations of that Review Panel went a long way to open up the cultural sector and release its potentials as it made positive projections on the desirability of a National Troupe, the film industry, copy-

•Gen. Buhari (left) and the late Gbolahun Mudasiru during the performance of Ori in Lagos in 1985

ADVOCACY right matters and generally the promotion, propagation and preservation of culture among others.

Part of the credit goes to the then Group Captain Sampson Emeka Omerua who was the Minister of Information, Youth, Sports and Culture.

One of the problems culture stakeholders had with the Buhari administration of the military era was its side-lining of the National Festival of Arts and Culture (NAFEST). On record, the 1993 edition of the festival was the last before the Buhari administration came to power. In spite of its high quality in concept and implementation, it was squeezed out of the nation’s cultural calendar. I do agree with those who remark that such posturing by anybody or government against a national cultural heritage cripples the collective intelligence. This happened nearly thirty years ago.

I believe the General has experience more than a simple measure of the the democratisation process to encourage creative and other forms of expression to flourish. But it has to be admitted that, it nowadays, culture sometimes appears as the senior partner in a ministerial arrangement, Buhari charted the course.

Can you recall such moments he lent support to major cultural event.

You see....I don’t know....It seemed fashionable in those days for soldiers to look tough, wear stony, unsmiling faces except when they were in the mess. Buhari wasn’t caught out attending shows. It was his Minister, Omeruah and Sole-Administrator, Akogun who frequent the arts beats and clubs like the theatre, Art Alade’s Arts Place, the Jazz Club of Nigeria events, Jazz 39, Bala Miller and NUTAF Port Harcourt among others. But, the General actually was the Special Guest-of-Honour at the Command Performance of Ori, a drama production of the Lagos State Council for Arts and Culture. It was written and directed by Funmi Odusolu and Produced by the State’s Director of Culture, (now Oba) Gbenga Sonuga. That was on February 5, 1985. As Command Performance, it meant that the Head-of-State ordered the presentation of the play, which went on to tour the United States

•Gen. Buhari

a year later even before the establishment of a National Troupe. I don’t if it was just one-off thing, but it was significant.

Any chance of him re-enacting such in this new dispensation?

Really, it’s not about General Buhari attending drama shows, art exhibitions and concerts, but to ensure that the democratisation process also guarantees the full democratisation of culture. If he had had the erroneous impression that the creative industry was on the fringe of the economy, developments in the movie, music and the popular arts in general today has proved otherwise. The good thing is that he laid the superstructure to some of these developments. You know, after the Oduneye Panel, enlarged group of culture stakeholders was constituted shortly before Buhari was overthrown on August 27, 1985.

Papa Steve Rhodes, Mr Frank Aig-

Really, it’s not about General Buhari attending drama shows, art exhibitions and concerts, but to ensure that the democratisation process also guarantees the full democratisation of culture. If he had had the erroneous impression that the creative industry was on the fringe of the economy, developments in the movie, music and the popular arts in general today has proved otherwise

Imoukhuede, Bruce Onobrakpeya, Demas Nwoko, Bala Miller, Taiwo Okupe, Naiwu Osahon and Dan Awodoye were among the members. Permit me, I can’t remember all, but they were the leading lights. Ben MurrayBruce and my humble self were the youngest. The Buhari administration gathered them from across Nigeria. Although he was overthrown in August, the brain-storming still held for two days in September, 1985 because the Federal Sole-Administrator whom Buhari appointed was retained by the successor. The group set a long term agenda for the cultural sector. And I think, Buhari should not find it difficult now to relate to the practical demands of the sector; for instance, job-creation and wealth-creation. Government should invest directly in culture. If it is possible for Governor Fashola to build mini-stadia across the Local Governments in Lagos, there is no reason why cottage theatres and art centres to accommodate the mass of artistic talents cannot be established in every Local Government Area in States where they are viable. This is our advocacy in Nigerian theatre today and one of the practical demands of the culture sector. And I think there is a chance of pulling this and other strategic agenda through because of the foundational role he played in the past. Government should encourage inputs into policy formulation and implementation from all interest groups, so that we can all claim the heritage and celebrate it as “Nigerian”.’

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, APRIL 15, 2015

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E-mail:- ozoluauhakheme@yahoo.com

Life and times of Joseph Adeleye Obutu

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education.

Papa thrived in knowing his children were educated. He saw this as his own education and his window to the world.

Y earliest memory of my father is a bit foggy: rather like a camera trying to focus on its subject. I can barely make out a guy that was always trying to tell me something by mouth when we are alone or through his eyes when there were other people.

However, I have a vivid, cinematic picture of locations, of people and my father who was always watching me.

In the years gone by, the message was constant, the teaching repeatedly drilled to avoid any chance of being lost. My father’s teaching was a whole life motion picture that continued to the very last day of his life on earth. His teaching was at first in those early days a monologue to a little boy, later a dialogue, a conversation that was so unique that I am particularly privileged to have been part of.

Faith......

Papa was a man of extraordinary faith. Till his last days on earth, he conducted his early morning family prayer. His prayer was really a command.

Papa always asked that we speak with our Eleda.

One particular instance has stuck with me over the years; I was sent home for my school fees during my secondary school days: it was one of those years when cocoa was under-priced and the market was bad. In the morning, Papa prayed, commanded his Eleda to provide so that his Prince can return to school. Daily prayers time was six o’ clock in the morning.

This particular morning, as Papa opened the outside door, there was a man waiting. He came to buy Agro chemical. Strangely, this was old stock that had been there for years. Like it was a normal, regular day, he bought his stuff in cash and went. I looked at Papa and said so “your Eleda heard you.”

He said yes with a big smile. “You must learn to communicate with your Eleda,” he said. He gave me my school fees and I went back to school.

The Man At about the turn of the nineteenth century, a powerful (very powerful) exiled Prince from the Benin Kingdom ended up at Igbo Ajagun an outpost not far from present day Iju and Itaogbolu with his battle weary entourage after a protracted and monumental journey through the woods of AkokoEdo and beyond. The settlement made up of arriving groups in the area was a form of a military camp from where the nucleus of early settlers of Iju and Itaogbolu eventually migrated. At this unsettled war period in Yoruba land, affiliations were made and groups emerged making decisions on choice of place of permanent settlement.

The Benin Prince, Prince Obutu Akenzua took his entourage to Itaogbolu which along with Iju were the two main evolving settlements at the time. Consequentially, the elders of Itaogbolu invited him to ascend to the throne. But, he declined stating he was there to rest after a long and difficult journey. In the local parlance, he was there to Simi with a proviso that his offspring should reserve this right in the future. The elders immediately made Imi a traditional title with Obutu as the first and the family a ruling house in Itaogbolu. The revered Prince had nine wives as was the practice of nobility at the time.

One of the nine wives was a maiden chosen from the prominent Isaoye family of Iju- Ifasote Olofinsusi. She arrived as the eight and one of the two junior wives. This union yielded four male children of which Papa Joseph Adeleye was the third born in the year 1927. His early years were in the royal household under a close watch of his father who took a special interest in him.

Unfortunately, this early romance that Papa used to talk fondly of, ended in his early teen with the death of the patriarch of the family. This

•The late Pa Adeleye From Akinsoji Adeleye

TRIBUTE momentous event in the early life of the young Adeleye led to his mother taking her four boys back to her paternal household of Isaoye in Iju where Papa continued his early childhood.

Papa taught himself to read and write and used this knowledge to travel extensively engaging in various merchandising; he traded in clothing materials and Agro chemical products. In 1951, he came back to Iju, settled down, took up extensive cocoa cultivation in addition to his commodity trading business. In 1953 he married a beautiful Princess – Juliana Ademolahan from the royal household of Oloofe of Oke-Iju a union that produced Papa’s greatest treasure of all-his children who he brought up as Princes and Princess. Till his later years, papa remained a very active and successful cocoa buyer and exporter.

Education For someone who did not have the benefit of formal education, Papa understood the imperative of it. He realised very early that the only way his Princes and Princess would not be labourers and messengers to others was for them to have good

Remember who you are When I was preparing to leave home for the first time to the boarding school, Papa and I had the first in the many series of admonition never to forget who I am and where I am came from. “Life can never really be a happy place for anyone that forgets his root”. Again, we had this conversation when I was travelling overseas. I found this particularly profound as I discovered that man is just a number the moment he is detached from his root. There is something abouta man’s root that cannot be replaced. “You are special” Papa would say.

Never look at someone else’s plate I earlier intimated how unique it was being my father’s son; this is without any chance of exaggeration. How do you bring up a child that would literarily never look at someone else’s plate?

“What is in your plate is the sweetest and the best there is, what is in the other person’s plate is of no concern to you” Papa always thought us to envy no one, to be confident of who we are and be content with that which is ours.

For a man to thoroughly enjoy life, he must love himself, be able to smile at the face in the mirror.

Papa loved, he cherished the company of the man in the mirror, enjoyed life, his smile, his unhindered laughter and the acknowledgment of his self.

Support creative industry, artistes urge Buhari

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ECRETARY-GENERAL, Pan African Writers Association (PAWA) Prof Atukwei Okai has hailed Nigerians for the successful conduct of the elections.

In a statement, the association said: “We congratulate Nigerians and take the opportunity to welcome the President-elect of this great African nation, Gen. Muhammadu Buhari. It is our fervent hope that the Nigerian shining example will inspire and inform Africa’s political governance, and promote the creation of peaceful conditions that would unleash upon the world the bottle-up transformative potential as well as the legendary creative genius of the African people.”

President, Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA), Prof. Remi Raji-Oyelade, said with Buhari’s victory, it is ‘our belief that more focus shall be given to the development of the creative industry, particularly the official and corporate support of the literary enterprise, including the author, the book and the culture of reading.’

Africa’s largest writers’ body congratulated the President-elect, Muhammadu Buhari, on his success at the just concluded presidential elections.

“We hold that the civilisation of national development is only attainable with the actualisation of policies which emphasise and fund the sustenance of education, culture and the arts. As a body, we pledge to contribute in strategic ways towards the achievement of greater progress for our literature and our nation...

“We followed the campaign trails of both

By Ozolua Uhakheme and Evelyn Osagie

ADVOCACY major candidates – incumbent President Goodluck Jonathan and General Buhari with objective detachment, and impartial involvement and prayers for the overall survival of the Nigerian nation. The contest, the eventual victory, and the post-election engagement are clearly instructive and symbolic of a nation that has truly arrived at the junction of change,” he added.

Former Vice President of ANA, Prof May Ifeoma Nwoye said it is hoped that the new administration would seek to promotean environment that nurtures writing, reading, publishing and promotion of Nigerian writers in particular and Africa in general.

Mrs Nwoye, who was Bursar of the University of Benin (UNIBEN) said: “Under this obligation, we look forward to having a leader that can develop programmes that will boost and support writing and publishing in Nigeria, through creative writing and editorial skills development workshops, internships, conferences and mentorship programmes; organise creative writing

•Gen. Buhari

workshops; editorial skills development workshops aimed at equipping book editors and proofreaders with practical editorial and publishing skills; online mentoring

‘We look forward to having a leader that can develop programmes that will boost and support writing and publishing in Nigeria, through creative writing and editorial skills development workshops, internships, conferences and mentorship programmes’

Give Papa thrived on giving to people. “Through giving you might appear to help someone else but in fact you are helping yourself”. The joy of giving is an intrinsic pleasure that cannot be measured.

Think no evil This of Papa’s teaching is rooted in his faith and believes that no evil can come his way for he wished no one evil. By extension Papa was convinced that no evil would ever befall his children since all he wish everyone was good-will.

Forgive The capacity to forgive is an immeasurable strength. What it means is that you, the forgiver know something the other party is incapable of.

Papa never had someone he would call an enemy.

Throughout his life challenges and tribulations, he never had anyone he called his enemy. I was always surprised as a kid when people that I thought had wronged him would come back to the house to eat and drink with him.

Have no fear Fear is a conscious recognition of a superior force, an unconscious acceptance of a faith and belief that might not be. As a kid growing up with Papa in an environment where witches and juju were prevalent, fear of something or certain people was the norm. But, Papa had no fear and thought us to have no fear. I know he had no fear because he thought me very early in life that the darkness at night is only the other side of the sun.

Be strong If you know your place in the world, you would feel strong. Papa was strong in his spirit and as a physical specimen. As a kid I thought he was strong, as an adult I know he was immensely strong. “Food you must only eat to live but never live to eat” Papa taught me how to live and stay hungry.

Conclusion Papa’s life and teaching is about the age old riddle of man and the process of his journey on earth. If you know who you are, you would have genuine faith, be strong, have confidence, imbibe the capacity to forgive your fellow being, help, give, have no fear and draw strength from being who you are.

Thank you Papa. I know you are smiling.

Rest in peace.

•Akinsoji Adeleye, CEO, Infex HC is the eldest son of Late Pa Joseph Adeleye Obutu.

scheme; website/blog and digital writinga platform for African writers to interact, share information and other resources on writing and other literary activities; share literary news, announcements and commission articles on book reviews.”

Former chairman Society of Nigerian Artists (Lagos State Chapter) Mr Olu Ajayi urged the incoming administration to as a matter of urgency address the culture sector especially in the areas of facilities, seed grant for artists and creation of Artists’ District to boost creativity.

Chairman/CEO, Literamed Publications (Nig) Ltd, Olayinka Lawal-Solarin, observed that the incoming government has plenty to do to correct the ills, especially the fall in standard of education, noting that past administrations, whether military or civilian didn’t pay enough attention to education.

“There is a National Book Policy that nobody is paying attention to. I have written a lot about it and nobody is listening. I said “if we don’t get things right this time as we have not done in the last 40 years, we may continue to grope in the dark and breed more illiterates,” she added.

Founder Thespian Family Theatre (TFT) Productions, Mrs Ayodele Jaiyesimi said Nigeria is blessed with many resources, noting that it is painful to see such a blessed country living in poverty and corruption.

According to her lots of people are not even expecting; they are just living everyday as they come.

“We hope to see a leader who understands what leadership is all about, leaders who are purpose-driven, selfless and have a burning passion to take Nigeria to where we ought to be as a nation such that our educational system and industries can work again; unemployment can be reduced,” she added.

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Life and times of Joseph Adeleye Obutu

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education.

Papa thrived in knowing his children were educated. He saw this as his own education and his window to the world.

Y earliest memory of my father is a bit foggy: rather like a camera trying to focus on its subject. I can barely make out a guy that was always trying to tell me something by mouth when we are alone or through his eyes when there were other people.

However, I have a vivid, cinematic picture of locations, of people and my father who was always watching me.

In the years gone by, the message was constant, the teaching repeatedly drilled to avoid any chance of being lost. My father’s teaching was a whole life motion picture that continued to the very last day of his life on earth. His teaching was at first in those early days a monologue to a little boy, later a dialogue, a conversation that was so unique that I am particularly privileged to have been part of.

Faith......

Papa was a man of extraordinary faith. Till his last days on earth, he conducted his early morning family prayer. His prayer was really a command.

Papa always asked that we speak with our Eleda.

One particular instance has stuck with me over the years; I was sent home for my school fees during my secondary school days: it was one of those years when cocoa was under-priced and the market was bad. In the morning, Papa prayed, commanded his Eleda to provide so that his Prince can return to school. Daily prayers time was six o’ clock in the morning.

This particular morning, as Papa opened the outside door, there was a man waiting. He came to buy Agro chemical. Strangely, this was old stock that had been there for years. Like it was a normal, regular day, he bought his stuff in cash and went. I looked at Papa and said so “your Eleda heard you.”

He said yes with a big smile. “You must learn to communicate with your Eleda,” he said. He gave me my school fees and I went back to school.

The Man At about the turn of the nineteenth century, a powerful (very powerful) exiled Prince from the Benin Kingdom ended up at Igbo Ajagun an outpost not far from present day Iju and Itaogbolu with his battle weary entourage after a protracted and monumental journey through the woods of AkokoEdo and beyond. The settlement made up of arriving groups in the area was a form of a military camp from where the nucleus of early settlers of Iju and Itaogbolu eventually migrated. At this unsettled war period in Yoruba land, affiliations were made and groups emerged making decisions on choice of place of permanent settlement.

The Benin Prince, Prince Obutu Akenzua took his entourage to Itaogbolu which along with Iju were the two main evolving settlements at the time. Consequentially, the elders of Itaogbolu invited him to ascend to the throne. But, he declined stating he was there to rest after a long and difficult journey. In the local parlance, he was there to Simi with a proviso that his offspring should reserve this right in the future. The elders immediately made Imi a traditional title with Obutu as the first and the family a ruling house in Itaogbolu. The revered Prince had nine wives as was the practice of nobility at the time.

One of the nine wives was a maiden chosen from the prominent Isaoye family of Iju- Ifasote Olofinsusi. She arrived as the eight and one of the two junior wives. This union yielded four male children of which Papa Joseph Adeleye was the third born in the year 1927. His early years were in the royal household under a close watch of his father who took a special interest in him.

Unfortunately, this early romance that Papa used to talk fondly of, ended in his early teen with the death of the patriarch of the family. This

•The late Pa Adeleye From Akinsoji Adeleye

TRIBUTE momentous event in the early life of the young Adeleye led to his mother taking her four boys back to her paternal household of Isaoye in Iju where Papa continued his early childhood.

Papa taught himself to read and write and used this knowledge to travel extensively engaging in various merchandising; he traded in clothing materials and Agro chemical products. In 1951, he came back to Iju, settled down, took up extensive cocoa cultivation in addition to his commodity trading business. In 1953 he married a beautiful Princess – Juliana Ademolahan from the royal household of Oloofe of Oke-Iju a union that produced Papa’s greatest treasure of all-his children who he brought up as Princes and Princess. Till his later years, papa remained a very active and successful cocoa buyer and exporter.

Education For someone who did not have the benefit of formal education, Papa understood the imperative of it. He realised very early that the only way his Princes and Princess would not be labourers and messengers to others was for them to have good

Remember who you are When I was preparing to leave home for the first time to the boarding school, Papa and I had the first in the many series of admonition never to forget who I am and where I am came from. “Life can never really be a happy place for anyone that forgets his root”. Again, we had this conversation when I was travelling overseas. I found this particularly profound as I discovered that man is just a number the moment he is detached from his root. There is something abouta man’s root that cannot be replaced. “You are special” Papa would say.

Never look at someone else’s plate I earlier intimated how unique it was being my father’s son; this is without any chance of exaggeration. How do you bring up a child that would literarily never look at someone else’s plate?

“What is in your plate is the sweetest and the best there is, what is in the other person’s plate is of no concern to you” Papa always thought us to envy no one, to be confident of who we are and be content with that which is ours.

For a man to thoroughly enjoy life, he must love himself, be able to smile at the face in the mirror.

Papa loved, he cherished the company of the man in the mirror, enjoyed life, his smile, his unhindered laughter and the acknowledgment of his self.

Support creative industry, artistes urge Buhari

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ECRETARY-GENERAL, Pan African Writers Association (PAWA) Prof Atukwei Okai has hailed Nigerians for the successful conduct of the elections.

In a statement, the association said: “We congratulate Nigerians and take the opportunity to welcome the President-elect of this great African nation, Gen. Muhammadu Buhari. It is our fervent hope that the Nigerian shining example will inspire and inform Africa’s political governance, and promote the creation of peaceful conditions that would unleash upon the world the bottle-up transformative potential as well as the legendary creative genius of the African people.”

President, Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA), Prof. Remi Raji-Oyelade, said with Buhari’s victory, it is ‘our belief that more focus shall be given to the development of the creative industry, particularly the official and corporate support of the literary enterprise, including the author, the book and the culture of reading.’

Africa’s largest writers’ body congratulated the President-elect, Muhammadu Buhari, on his success at the just concluded presidential elections.

“We hold that the civilisation of national development is only attainable with the actualisation of policies which emphasise and fund the sustenance of education, culture and the arts. As a body, we pledge to contribute in strategic ways towards the achievement of greater progress for our literature and our nation...

“We followed the campaign trails of both

By Ozolua Uhakheme and Evelyn Osagie

ADVOCACY major candidates – incumbent President Goodluck Jonathan and General Buhari with objective detachment, and impartial involvement and prayers for the overall survival of the Nigerian nation. The contest, the eventual victory, and the post-election engagement are clearly instructive and symbolic of a nation that has truly arrived at the junction of change,” he added.

Former Vice President of ANA, Prof May Ifeoma Nwoye said it is hoped that the new administration would seek to promotean environment that nurtures writing, reading, publishing and promotion of Nigerian writers in particular and Africa in general.

Mrs Nwoye, who was Bursar of the University of Benin (UNIBEN) said: “Under this obligation, we look forward to having a leader that can develop programmes that will boost and support writing and publishing in Nigeria, through creative writing and editorial skills development workshops, internships, conferences and mentorship programmes; organise creative writing

•Gen. Buhari

workshops; editorial skills development workshops aimed at equipping book editors and proofreaders with practical editorial and publishing skills; online mentoring

‘We look forward to having a leader that can develop programmes that will boost and support writing and publishing in Nigeria, through creative writing and editorial skills development workshops, internships, conferences and mentorship programmes’

Give Papa thrived on giving to people. “Through giving you might appear to help someone else but in fact you are helping yourself”. The joy of giving is an intrinsic pleasure that cannot be measured.

Think no evil This of Papa’s teaching is rooted in his faith and believes that no evil can come his way for he wished no one evil. By extension Papa was convinced that no evil would ever befall his children since all he wish everyone was good-will.

Forgive The capacity to forgive is an immeasurable strength. What it means is that you, the forgiver know something the other party is incapable of.

Papa never had someone he would call an enemy.

Throughout his life challenges and tribulations, he never had anyone he called his enemy. I was always surprised as a kid when people that I thought had wronged him would come back to the house to eat and drink with him.

Have no fear Fear is a conscious recognition of a superior force, an unconscious acceptance of a faith and belief that might not be. As a kid growing up with Papa in an environment where witches and juju were prevalent, fear of something or certain people was the norm. But, Papa had no fear and thought us to have no fear. I know he had no fear because he thought me very early in life that the darkness at night is only the other side of the sun.

Be strong If you know your place in the world, you would feel strong. Papa was strong in his spirit and as a physical specimen. As a kid I thought he was strong, as an adult I know he was immensely strong. “Food you must only eat to live but never live to eat” Papa taught me how to live and stay hungry.

Conclusion Papa’s life and teaching is about the age old riddle of man and the process of his journey on earth. If you know who you are, you would have genuine faith, be strong, have confidence, imbibe the capacity to forgive your fellow being, help, give, have no fear and draw strength from being who you are.

Thank you Papa. I know you are smiling.

Rest in peace.

•Akinsoji Adeleye, CEO, Infex HC is the eldest son of Late Pa Joseph Adeleye Obutu.

scheme; website/blog and digital writinga platform for African writers to interact, share information and other resources on writing and other literary activities; share literary news, announcements and commission articles on book reviews.”

Former chairman Society of Nigerian Artists (Lagos State Chapter) Mr Olu Ajayi urged the incoming administration to as a matter of urgency address the culture sector especially in the areas of facilities, seed grant for artists and creation of Artists’ District to boost creativity.

Chairman/CEO, Literamed Publications (Nig) Ltd, Olayinka Lawal-Solarin, observed that the incoming government has plenty to do to correct the ills, especially the fall in standard of education, noting that past administrations, whether military or civilian didn’t pay enough attention to education.

“There is a National Book Policy that nobody is paying attention to. I have written a lot about it and nobody is listening. I said “if we don’t get things right this time as we have not done in the last 40 years, we may continue to grope in the dark and breed more illiterates,” she added.

Founder Thespian Family Theatre (TFT) Productions, Mrs Ayodele Jaiyesimi said Nigeria is blessed with many resources, noting that it is painful to see such a blessed country living in poverty and corruption.

According to her lots of people are not even expecting; they are just living everyday as they come.

“We hope to see a leader who understands what leadership is all about, leaders who are purpose-driven, selfless and have a burning passion to take Nigeria to where we ought to be as a nation such that our educational system and industries can work again; unemployment can be reduced,” she added.

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22, 2015

18

The Midweek Magazine

E-mail:- ozoluauhakheme@yahoo.com

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VER 300 participants converged on the Women’s Optimum Development Foundation (WODEF) for the celebration of the International Women’s Day (IWD), with the theme: Make it happen.

They spoke of their commitment to national development.

The event was held in partnership with the United Nations Information Centre (UNIC), Lagos.

WODEF National Coordinator, Mrs Bimbo Oloyede, had drawn policymakers attention and served as catalyst for change.

She said some people had been asking what women have got to celebrate, noting that the answer given will depend on whether they are optimists or pessimists.

Mrs Oloyede said: “Women have got lots to celebrate with a teenager like Malala becoming a global symbol for the education of girls, despite the fact that same remains unsafe in her own country of birth.

“We are we celebrating when in India, over 90 women are being raped everyday amid a fierce debate as to whether or not the public should be allowed to watch a documentary film shot by the BBC, highlighting the issues surrounding a gang-rape which took place in New Delhi on a bus in 2012, from which the victim later died.

“We are celebrating when instead of providing constructive and enlightening information, the internet and social media platforms are currently being used to promote a sophisticated on-line campaign to lure female recruits to Syria to perpetuate terrorist activities?

“We are celebrating when over 200 girls, in their attempt to better themselves, acquire an education and liberate themselves from continued dependence are still at large, over one-and-a-half years after they were abducted in Chibok, in circumstances that are still not clear?

“We are celebrating when because of Nigeria’s insurgency issues, hundreds of thousands of women, men and children have been internally displaced, forced to live from hand-to-mouth on paltry hand outs; so traumatised by the harsh realities of their present and the bleak uncertainty of their future that even if they had the opportunity, the last thing on their minds would be participating in the democratic process by coming out to vote. After all, we all know that the women and children are the hardest hit, don’t we?”

These points, she said, make the question: ‘what are we celebrating salient whereas in our so-called democratic dispensation, are women more likely to reach reasonable levels of equal representation by appointment or through political Godfathers and less by the ballot box?

“Our celebration will thus be more remarkable, if despite all the pictures painted above, each woman chooses to be an optimist which is why the IWD is not only recognise the global struggle of those working towards gender equality, but also to acknowledge the achievements of women

• Mrs Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire (second right), Alhaja Risikat Akiode (frist right), Mrs Oloyede and Seyi Oshomerekun at the event

Foundation seeks more attention for women

By Joke Kujenya

AWARD

who have made sacrifices in various ways to actualise development and improve the quality of life”.

Mrs Oloyede noted: “Because of Malala and abducted Chibok Girls, girl-child education is now on the front burner of the development agenda of most countries. Also, because the taboo on discussing sexual violence has been broken, several new fast track courts have been created to hear rape cases in India. Because of IDPs, INEC can now acknowledge the democratic rights and needs of other vulnerable groups like the visually impaired, the albinos and the physically challenged.

Because of glaring inequality at the polls, women are now working in groups to train and support each other against the elections in 2019”.

She called on the forum not to be passive about the inequality and injustice being witnessed all around but to remain active, vocal and willing to be hands-on to ensure that each person makes a difference to realise the IWD theme and make it happen!

Mrs Oloyede said this year’s theme is to show that women play vital roles as agents of development -from food security to the boardroom and from the theatre to infra-

structure- adding: “Women are making it happen and contributing their quota towards socio-economic development, gender equality, women’s empowerment, women’ rights and the eradication of poverty. It is however important for us to carry the young ones along and encourage them to aspire to higher standards by exposing them to real heroes and heroines of development, whom they can emulate”.

Highlight of the occasion was the presentation of ‘Rare Gems’ awards to 16 schools involved in WODEF projects since it started last June. The project is built around the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs).

Mrs, Oloyede said eight schools researched a goal each to identify, actualising each goal, the others evaluates the Lagos State Government’s efforts to achieve the MDGs. The awardees, she said, “were nominated by the students and selected finally by our panel of judges”.

She congratulated them on their determination to make an impact not because they are looking for applause, “but because they were determined to break out of the box of ordinary, therefore, they have become ex-

traordinary because they thought no one was watching”.

Her NGO, Mrs Oloyede said, remained grateful to UNIC, UNFPA and other supporters for their collaboration, encouragement and partnership related to the Rare Gems project.

The awardees are: • Eradication of extreme poverty and hunger received by Mrs Omowale Ogunride.

• Achieving Universal Primary Education went to Hajia Maryam Garuba.

• Promote Gender Equality & Empower Women was awarded to Her Excellency • Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire was received by Dettol.

• Improve maternal health/Reducing Child Mortality was given to Ms.Ifeyinwa Madu.

• Combat HIV/AIDS, Malaria & other Diseases went to Late Dr Stella Adadevoh.

• Goal 8 winner: Developing a global partnership for development by Mr Saheed Adepoju.

Dignitaries in attendance included the Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Mrs Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, representative of Lagos State First Lady, Dame Emanuela Abimbola Fashola, Mrs Rhoda Ayinde, representatives of UNFPA, Dr. Amaka Haruna and UNAIDS, Dr O. Asa, who gave goodwill messages.

Ayo Lijadu, Bimbo Manuel lead actors in Shijuwomi

By Ozolua Uhakheme

THEATRE

•Ayo Lijadu and Judith Audu on set

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op flight thespians, such as Ayo Lijadu, Bimbo Manuel and Tina Mba, are among leading dramatists featuring in Shijuwomi, a post-colonial cinematic adaptation of Rasheed Gbadamosi’s book, Behold My Redeemer. Other members of the cast are Judith Audu, Femi Adebayo, Olu Okekanye and Jude Chukwuka. The filming of Shijuwomi led by award winning and director/screenwriter Niji Akanni started last Sunday.

Renowned economist and accomplished art collector Chief Rasheed Abiodun Gbadamosi is Executive Producer for the project. He is the author of many short stories and plays for radio, television and the theatre, including Tree Grows in the Desert, Behold my Redeemer, Echoes from the Lagoon, and Sunset over Nairobi, which won first prize in Radio Netherlands Golden Windmill short story competition.

When a pampered girl, Shijuwomi, who has travelled to England to study attempts

suicide, prompting the decision to repatriate her home. At home, she is moved to an institution where she meets Dr. Ilori, a lecturer in Anthropology who eventually marries her. The marriage does not however provide the desired harmony and succor as Shijuwomi and Ilori are on a parallel scale in terms of pursuing their interests, forcing her to make another suicidal attempt.

SHIJUWOMI is riddled with love and conflict from start to finish. It is a cerebral metaphor for Nigeria as a nation state and many African countries whose dreams of Utopia after freedom from colonial powers have all but evaporated, leaving behind hopelessness and frustration.

Adapted for the screen by the trio of Prof.

Ola Rotimi, Dr. Femi Olugbile and Bayo Awala, the man behind the project, Awala is neither new to adaptations nor directing. As a filmmaker, he acquired a lot of experience at the Nigerian Television Authority, NTA, where he directed such successful drama series as Village Headmas-

ter, as well as independently produced series such as Winds against My Soul, Adio Family, By the Road Side, The Turning Wheel, The Young Ones, Jagua Nana’s Daughter, Tight Rope, Trauma and Doctors Quarters.

In 2005, Awala directed the award winning political thriller, Prince of the Savannah, written by Yinka Ogun and starred Tunde Laniyan, Sam Loco Efe, Teni Aofiyebi, and Chidi Ukwu, who won the Best Actor Award at the ZUMA Film Festival 2011 for his role in the movie.

“This project has been in the works for over two decades. I have always being fascinated with this story since I first directed it on stage in 1969. Its thematic relevance, the tempospatial canvass against which the narrative plays out and an opportunity to increase the volume of works adapted from our rich literary traditions are some of the reasons why we have decided to showcase this piece,” Awala said.

SHIJUWOMI has received support from the Nigerian government’s Nollywood interventionist project; ProjectActNollywood’s Film Production Fund (FPF) and is being produced with the active collaboration of Ogun State Government.

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22, 2015

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COMMENTARY EDITORIALS

LETTER

Enough of this xenophobic nonsense

Overloaded • It’s time we muscled the will to stop the costly congestion at our ports

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HE perennial chaos that has come to define maritime activities would again rear its ugly head at the Apapa ports when on April 9 a group of importers and their clearing agents – said to number about a thousand – reportedly besieged the entrance of a shipping company over an alleged refusal to issue them Delivery Notes to enable them move their goods out of the ports.

An industrial action said to have been embarked upon by workers of the shipping company – Mediterranean Shipping Company, Apapa –reportedly crippled the company’s operations as a result of which some 6,000 containers valued at N3 billion were trapped at the Ports and Cargo handling services, Tin Can Port.

Not only are the importers counting their

‘True, a number of the problems have to do with capacity issues bordering on poor attention to details of documentation; majority however stem from lapses in regulations, of enforcement of standards and the lack of will by the industry regulator – the Nigerian Shippers Council – to penalise errant operators’

losses in millions –from circumstances that are not their making, they are said to be demanding restitution from the shipping company.

For a sector variously described as ‘gateway’, ‘heartbeat’ of the nation’s economy, it is sadly the way the maritime industry has come to ‘live’ and derive its being.

Only in January, Shipping Position, a daily statistics of ship traffic published by Nigeria Ports Authority (NPA), reported 251,860 metric tons (MT) of cargo as stranded at Terminal C and D of the Lagos Ports Complex (LPC), Apapa. The complex is operated by ENL Consortium Limited. As at the time of publication, another 11 vessels said to have arrived December 2014 were reportedly drifting on the seas awaiting berthing space. The official reason given was the yuletide holidays!

As it seems, chaos would appear to be the second nature to an industry which holds so much promise to the nation. Not long ago, operators complained of inadequate facilities to bring operations at par with what obtains in other parts of the world. Privatisation would become the buzz-word as a result. If Nigerians expected that the privatisation of a number of the port operations would attract the much needed injection of capital and technology, it is doubtful that things have changed in any significant sense postprivatisation.

Where they have, their impacts on the overall process have been rather limited.

The same would apply to the question of

the plethora of agencies operating within the port complexes and the associated bureaucracy and red tape which they gave rise to – of which the industry is ingloriously known. After countless initiatives – including serial presidential task forces – we must say that the results have been a mixed bag.

We must hasten to make the point that the problems in the sector are not necessarily intractable – nor are they rocket science – in the sense that they are sometimes made out to be. True, a number of the problems have to do with capacity issues bordering on poor attention to details of documentation; majority however stem from lapses in regulations, of enforcement of standards and the lack of will by the industry regulator – the Nigerian Shippers Council – to penalise errant operators.

Here, the council would seem to have had its work cut out: ensure that individual operators are treated equitably and that a powerful player is not allowed to trample on the rights of the small player.

Beyond those, it seems to us that the incoming Buhari administration would require a fresh and holistic approach to the multifarious problems of the maritime sector. We refer specifically to the problems of congestion, corruption and the prohibitive charges as indeed other problems that have consigned the nation’s ports to the ranks of the least competitive among its peers. It is the least the administration could do at this time of dwindling oil revenues.

Timely but...

• The UN intervention fund for terror victims should not go to GEJ’s men

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HE brutal blight of Boko Haram has aroused global pecuniary consideration with the United Nations’ (UN) launch in Dakar, Senegal, of an appeal tagged: “life-saving aid,” to rescue almost 200,000 Nigerians that were displaced by the insurgents’ terror attacks. The worth of the fund is $174 million.

The plight of the people of the north eastern Nigeria was well captured by Liz Ahua, West Africa Representative for the UNHCR, with her petrifying depiction that the “displaced people in north-eastern Nigeria and across borders are in a very dramatic situation. They continue to fear for their lives, and are at this point unable to return to their homes. Some 192,000 people have fled over Nigeria’s borders into Cameroon, Chad and Niger seeking refuge from relentless violence. A further 1.2 million have been displaced within Nigeria as a direct result of the bloodshed; while the insurgents have killed more than 13,000 people since 2009.’’

The picture painted above is as much as it is gargantuan, and it indeed calls for more empirical global intervention than it currently receives. We are aware of the problems that refugee crisis is causing in flash points across the globe. So, everything must be done to arrest the challenges of Boko Haram in Nigeria, being the most populous country on the African continent.

It is worthy of note that the UN too saw the need to raise funds for the insurgents’ victims. This would complement the Victims’ Support Fund Committee set up by President Goodluck

Jonathan on July16, 2014, under the chairmanship of General T.Y. Danjuma, to raise funds for the victims. The committee comprising notable individuals like Fola Adeola as vice chairman, Mrs Folorunsho Alakija, Cosmas Maduka, Jim Ovia, Mohammed Indimi, Abdulsamad Isyaku Rabiu, Sani Dauda and Wale Tinubu has the mandate of identifying sources and ways of raising sustainable funding to support victims of terror activities; developing appropriate strategies for it; ascertaining the persons, communities, facilities and economic assets affected by terror activities; and assessing and determining the appropriate support required in each case. More importantly, it has to manage, disburse and/or administer support to the victims as appropriate.

To demand for how far the committee has fared is indeed a justifiable question. And it would not be out of place to call for accountability regarding the funds so far raised and the expenditure made by the committee so that noticeable grey areas can be worked on. Moreover, in view of the damaging activities of the insurgents’ and the attendant displacements, the requirements of shelter, food, drugs, education and sanitation of the refugees would definitely be at an enormous cost that might be too much for the committee to shoulder. The response to refugees’ needs and protection and living conditions in their camps could only be promptly and precisely attended to with proper planning and right funding by government and other agencies, domestic and interna-

tional. This could come in the form of due relocation of refugees away from the conflict border areas and where necessary create extra refugee camps.

Otherwise, refugees’ overcrowding could lead to avoidable diseases that might end in death.

We commend the UN for embarking on this laudable initiative to augment the wellbeing of people displaced by Boko Haram in the country. But it is important to suggest that such fund when ready should not be released to the outgoing government that has received more knocks for its tepid handling of the insurgents’ onslaught against the territorial sovereignty of Nigeria. It could be handed over to the committee after coming up with marshal plan of how it would be spent and having acquitted itself on how hitherto raised funds were utilised.

‘It is important to suggest that such fund when ready should not be released to the outgoing government that has received more knocks for its tepid handling of the insurgents’ onslaught against the territorial sovereignty of Nigeria. It could be handed over to the committee after coming up with marshal plan of how it would be spent and having acquitted itself on how hitherto raised funds were utilised”

IR: The South African government is a disgrace to the entire black race and it’s time for countries to start considering their relationship with the Jacob Zuma-led administration. One will have thought that a responsible government would have done everything within its power to stop this xenophobic nonsense targeted against fellow Africans. The big question is why the government has not been able to stop the attacks.

The world knows how all Africans stood strongly behind the freedom and liberation of South Africa. Our brothers and sisters living in South Africa are now in constant fear as they witness the killings of their fellow blacks and family members without protection from the government. South Africans have betrayed African brotherhood and sure will one day pay dearly for this inhuman and barbaric action of some few bad individuals. Every reason behind the attacks were unjustified and unwarranted knowing very well that black South Africans received enormous support from many countries in Africa during the struggle against apartheid.

“Your struggle was our struggle and your victory was our victory. South Africa’s enemies were Africa’s enemies and your freedom was Africa’s freedom.” There was a sense of brotherhood that allowed the battle against the apartheid to be carried on the shoulders of the entire black race and this binding bond has been destroyed right away. Nigerians and Africans in general sacrificed numerous resources to support the South African freedom fight and would not allow a situation where the South African government was failing to protect foreigners.

What will happen if there is retaliation in other countries against South African nationals living in the Diaspora?

God forbid and where will Africa end up? South Africans are been too quick to forget the sacrifice made by many countries that rallied behind them and now we are being repaid with xenophobic murders.

I see a very terrible future for South Africans on the continent as the country has merely succeeded to isolate itself.

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•Comrade Ahmed Omeiza Lukman Kiev, Ukraine 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 WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22, 2015

20

CARTOON & LETTERS

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IR: Has a state Collation and Returning Officer the power to cancel election results? In other words, is there any legal basis for INEC to organize a supplementary governorship election in Abia State on April 25? The answers to the above questions will determine whether peace will reign in Abia State in the years ahead.

Section 68(1) of the Electoral Act 2010 (as amended) provides that “The decision of the returning officer in any question arising from or relating to any petition proceeding under the Act, (a) Unmarked ballot paper (b) Rejected ballot papers; and (c) Declaration of scores of candidates and returns of a candidate shall be final subject to review by a tribunal or court in an election petition proceedings under this Act”. In other words, while a returning officer can declare the scores of candidates in an election, he or she cannot cancel election results. This is the correct import of Section 68(1) of the Electoral Act. From the foregoing, it is safe to make the following deductions regarding the April 11, governorship

EDITOR’S MAIL BAG SEND TYPEWRITTEN, DOUBLE SPACED AND SIGNED CONTRIBUTIONS, LETTERS AND REJOINDERS OF NOT MORE THAN 800 WORDS TO THE EDITOR, THE NATION, 27B, FATAI ATERE ROAD, MATORI, LAGOS. E-mail: views@thenationonlineng.net

INEC, Law and Abia guber election election in Abia State. The first is that the act of cancelling the election results for Obingwa, Osisioma and Isiala-Ngwa North local governments by the returning officer for the Abia State governorship election, Prof Benjamin Ozumba, including the subsequent re-instating of the earlier cancelled results, remain null and void because the said acts do not have any legal backing. One cannot put something on nothing and expect it to hold water. The statements by Prof.

Ozumba cancelling or re-instating the election results in the three local governments at issue here were mere opinions not recognised by the Electoral Act or the 1999 constitution ( as amended).

Flowing from the propositions above, it could be safely said that INEC’s plan to organize a supplementary governorship election in Abia State on April 25 will remain a useless or meaningless exercise because it does not have any legal or constitutional backing or basis.

Since there is no law that empowered Prof. Ozumba to cancel election results in Obingwa, Osisioma and Isiala-Ngwa North local governments, the statement that the Abia State governorship election of April 11 is “inconclusive” is at best dubious as it does not stand on any legal plank. The INEC will, therefore, be embarking on a wild goose chase if it stubbornly or ignorantly insists on organizing the

Fayose’s olive branch IR: I never knew Governor Ayodele Fayose understands what is peace, and its significance. His peace overture is coming rather too late. When he raised his voice at a higher decibel than all others even when wisdom dictated that he ought to have played the siddon look approach (just coming around from political Siberia) as his election was not coming up at the same time with others, he shunned all wise counsel and descended into the muddy pool of dirty politics (even though that has been his natural political habitat) even with his clothes on. It was at that point that he courted trouble; and held out himself as the maid of easy virtue for every politically randy man to ravish, and they are quite many.

Fayose appealed to the court of

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trouble, and to that court he must go to be judged. His prosecutors, persecutors and witnesses against him at the appeal court of trouble are not few: OBJ, Tinubu, Aregbesola, Fayemi, the 19 Ekiti legislators whom he banished from Ekiti at the height of his theater of the absurd are all baying for his blood. Your Excellency, the desecration that you brought on the high office of governor with your uncouth language and dancing naked at the political arena require atonement. Wherever atonement is required, there must of necessity be an offering of the sacrifice of blood. So, my governor, step forward to your Golgotha!

•Chris Edache Agbiti, Abuja

April 25, 2015 supplementary election in Abia State.

Even if Prof. Ozumba had the right or power to cancel the results of the election in the three local governments in question, his reasons for doing so are jejune and preposterous. There is no provision in the Electoral Act or the 1999 Constitution where the inputs or reports of international observers are supposed to be the basis for upholding or cancelling election results in Nigeria.

Finally, any doubts about the points canvassed in this essay should reflect on the ruling of the courts regarding the powers of a returning officer in an election. In NWOKOLO Vs UBAH (2012) 17

NWLR (Pt 1330) 604, the Court of Appeal held that a returning officer does not have the power to declare an election inconclusive. The court said: “The election having been held in Ika North-East L.G.A. as borne out by the evidence led, it was for the returning officer to have declared the result of the election by deciding on the scores of the candidates under Section 68(1) of the Electoral Act, leaving an aggrieved party with his options under the Act and not for him to declare the election inconclusive. He had no power to do so. His action was therefore, ultra vires and void”, per Nwosu-Iheme J.C.A. at page 611 paragraphs D to F. His Lordship insisted at page 612, paragraphs A to B that “A returning officer should, therefore, not act capriciously or contrary to the Law governing the conduct of an election for which the 3rd respondent is responsible and expect to wallow in such capriciousness and illegality”.

•Nkem Ibekwe, Mezie Ala-Igbo Foundation.

Democracy will thrive IR: I wish to commend the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for successfully holding the last general election, especially the presidential one. Despite the technical hitches created by the card readers and violence, the electioneering was greeted by many, including the foreign observers.

Before the election, some experts had said that Nigeria might collapse; that a victory for President Goodluck Jonathan could worsen the insurgency in the North. On the other hand, some said with victory for Major-General Muhammadu Buhari, the restiveness in the Niger Delta could resurface.

However, all these permutations failed as President Jonathan on hearing the election results, surprisingly, positioned himself as a

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true democrat when he accepted defeat with equanimity. The signs of the ‘ides of March’ was for the number citizen was when the card readers failed about two times to read his fingers on election day.

When he finally performed his civic responsibility, and journalists asked for his opinion on the election, Jonathan’s response was calm, cool and calculating. No wonder it was welcomed by many Nigerians, who heaved a sigh of relief.

The second good thing Jonathan did on the general election was the congratulatory message via a phone call he made to Buhari. With this noble step, many Nigerians believe that, indeed, a Madiba exists in the creeks. Let me quickly add that on assumption of duties, Jonathan’s mien and nuances gave him a carriage that his last deci-

sion, especially the one he made on the day the elections were announced put him in the minds of the people globally that, indeed, he’s a great democrat. His quote on that day: ‘My ambition was not worth the blood of any Nigerian’ has brought him to light just as it brought to him more encomiums.

I see a new dawn for Nigeria. The international community will now see us as people who can manage our situation.

In my opinion, an icon Nigeria never knew know live with us. He’s Jonathan. He’s to be celebrated by Nigerians and his actions have shown that democracy will thrive in Nigeria.

• Valentine Opone, Magodo, Lagos

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22, 2015

21

COMMENTS

Our Girls; Are we 120m or 170m Nigerians? Jega GCFR, INEC and 2019; Democracy Monuments; IGR

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UR Girls are still missing since April 15th 2014 a year of painful empty days. We pray as the military makes efforts Tony but we cannot compreMarinho hend the agony of families dragged into terrible emotional trauma. Where are they? When will they return?

What is our real population- ‘170m’, ‘around 200m’?

Where are these 170m Nigerians? Foreigners count us by satellite and know. Do the maths. INEC made 70m Permanent Voters Cards. Only 56m collected. Only 28+m voted. Add 10m for cancellations, disenfranchised, sick and bored making 38m or being generous 40m. If adults are 40% of the population, the under 18 year old are 60% or 60m. With this the total population is 100m or even 120m. What is the true census figure and ‘Where are the Nigerians?’ A reduced real population will improve our GDP and our rebased economy and help keep our people at home safe from South African xenophobia.

The 2015 elections are over with serious questions of legitimacy of winners and scandalous outcomes in some states. There is ‘TTT’ ‘Triumph for victors, Tedium for Voters, Tragedy for the cheated’ and the dead with gloom for the losers and doom for the dead. INEC nationwide with exceptions in a few well known states stood against a massively corrupt and Machiavellian political machinery of partisan politics which is not ‘Do or Die’ but ‘Do Or Kill’ happily maiming or murdering, beating and burning, in the name of democracy. Is it really INEC’s job to face such a malevolent army of Nigerian political miscreants or should Nigeria take the responsibility to secure the peace with non-partisan police and armed forces before INEC steps in? Can INEC better secure the ballot boxes to prevent them being stolen and re-stuffed by party faithful who are unfaithful to the NIGERIAN DREAM OF DEMOCRACY & DEVELOPMENT? Nigerians suggest GCFR for Professor Jega in the 2015 Oct Honours List for being the GOC, commanding the

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N Tuesday, April 14, another election dispute that had progressed through the several adjudicatory levels in our court system was disposed of. It involved the emergence of Ayodele Fayose of the Peoples’ Democratic Party, PDP, as winner of the Ekiti State gubernatorial election held on June 21, 2014. The All Progressives’ Congress, APC, had lodged a petition at the Election Petition Tribunal after the said election, with several allegations, including fake certificates, harassment of opposition by security outfits and Fayose’s disqualification from contesting the election.

After all the legal wrangling in the courts leading to the Supreme Court decision delivered last Tuesday, the story from the onset at the tribunal remains unchanged; the election results remain valid. The decision, as we have seen, has addressed certain constitutional issues. The most prevalent issue, perhaps, is the question of whether an impeached governor is by implication disqualified from contesting future elections in the manner set out in section 182(1) of the 1999 constitution which lists grounds upon which a governor may be disqualified. Particularly relevant is Section 182(1) (e) and (i). Section 182 (1) (i) which state that a person is disqualified from running for election if “he has been indicted for embezzlement or fraud by a Judicial Commission of Inquiry or an Administrative Panel of Inquiry or a tribunal set up under the Tribunals of Inquiry Act, a Tribunal of Inquiry Law or any other law by the federal or state government which indictment has been accepted by the federal or state government”.

On October 16, 2006, a panel put together by then acting Chief Judge of Ekiti State, Justice Jide Aladejana

heavily out-numbered INEC Army against the combined forces of evil. How dare we blame INEC for the evil execution of plans by ballot snatching maniacs? OFR should be given to only the ‘qualified’ screened RECs including a Posthumous award for the late REC burnt dead or murdered with his family in Kano. For the honest dead victims, around 120 in number, an MON? Many of ‘losers’ were actually robbed, cheated , denied democracy rights, molested and some murdered. What a blood-y waste. I congratulate the honest real victors. Particularly, in Lagos and Oyo States for choosing to be aligned with the federal centre for once in the life of Lagos and twice in Oyo State. The outcomes mostly show polyglot, multi-party states of affairs, with close numbers between the parties and a few landslides for both major parties needing investigation to exclude coercion and criminal intent. Governors won 38-95% of the vote and they must be servants of all the other voters as well and not just their ‘party people’.

So a Supreme Court supported Fayose offers the olive branch of ‘please forgive me’ without offering an apology for ‘7 being greater than 19’, court invasions, or giving restitution or reparation for the damage or a fund raising for the dead. Paradoxically, he triumphed in the same judiciary that was rubbished on his watch. What percentage of the assembly seats were actually won legitimately not legally ? Which party will withstand a rerun in any state?

After a short rest on its laurels, there is a lot of work for INEC to do by 2019. These elections have cost us well in excess of N1.5trillion-NISER Research confirmation please. The expenses include two days of total national economic shutdown, massive multibillion naira advertising - outdoor and electronic and newspaper; countrywide travel and hotel and rally and security costs, constant changes of political ethnic apparel, a billion posters, massive handouts denominated often in dollars to royalty, party people and perhaps even some INEC officials. Nigeria demands INEC focus on achieving the following ‘INEC Nine Point Agenda’: 1. Pursuit and Prosecution and Banning of those guilty of Election Fraud and Violence; 2. Penalise Political Parties financially and

by banning participation in reruns, just as banks and companies pay fines for their employees fraudulent activities; 3. ‘One Day Elections’ to reduce economic and physical stress ; 4. Plan to allocate one INEC unit of three personnel per 100 voters; 5. ‘9am -4pm Walk-In Accreditation and Immediate Voting’; 6. ‘Anywhere Voting’ –to allow those registered elsewhere to vote in any booth; 7. Continuous Registration for PVC at 18 years of age at the INEC LGA Office; 8. Compulsory Return of Permanent Voters Card by families of the dead; 9. International Diaspora Voting Plan’; 10. E-Voting plan.

Jega may require to finish the job he has started so well.

He or someone very like him of impeccable ‘character and learning’ must supervise and analyse the enormous voter database now available, proffer solutions to existing problems and strategise on the INEC TAMPER-PROOF ROADMAP TO 2019.

The election did cost over 120 lives of Fellow Nigerians.

The Police and NHRC must investigate, produce a CID Report and prosecute every case and courts must be swift in justice delivery. These murdered victims proclaim the urgency of Nigeria and NGOs to erect ‘DEMOCRACY MEMORIALS’ with names, like at War Memorials, because this democracy struggle is a DEMOCRACY WAR. • To be continued..

‘Jega may require to finish the job he has started so well. He or someone very like him of impeccable ‘character and learning’ must supervise and analyse the enormous voter database now available, proffer solutions to existing problems and strategise on the INEC TAMPERPROOF ROADMAP TO 2019’

Ekiti: The fire this time recommended Fayose’s impeachment after which he was impeached.

The panel was set up despite the fact that the Chief Judge at the time, Justice Kayode Bamisile, who was suspended by the state assembly in controversial circumstances, had previously constituted a panel of inquiry.

The Bamisile panel had considered the impeachment notice and cleared Fayose of wrongdoing. Events in the state later deteriorated into chaos.

The Aladejana panel recommendation and the subsequent impeachment of Fayose had been relied on as ground for canvassing Fayose’s disqualification from the 2014 elections. The court last Tuesday held that impeachment is not a ground for disqualification of a candidate for election. It further said that the second panel set up by Justice Aladejana, who was thereafter dismissed by the National Judicial Council, NJC, was illegal.

According to reports, Bode Rhodes-Vivour, JSC, further stated in that judgment that even if the second judicial panel of inquiry had been rightly constituted, Fayose still had to be tried and convicted before the Code of Conduct Tribunal notwithstanding the recommendation by the Judicial panel of authority, before he could be disqualified from running for election. The purport of this is that the decision of a judicial panel of enquiry ordinarily will not fall within the scope of an indictment of “…a Judicial Commission of Inquiry or an Administrative Panel of Inquiry or a Tribunal…” envisaged in section 182 (1) (i) reproduced above. However, a conviction under the Code of Conduct is specifically

‘It is particularly distressing that while strides are seemingly being made towards a saner society fit for modern participation in civilised practices around the world, some elements within our system are unwilling to cultivate the art of statesmanship or learn the rudiments of modern politicking’

stated in Section 182 (1) (e).

Several questions still arise like what constitutes an “indictment” under that subsection. Though I have not had the opportunity of seeing the actual judgment, but if Justice Rhodes-Vivour’s views are mirrored in the lead judgment read by Justice Sylvester Ngwuta, then the position of the Supreme Court of Nigeria would be to exclude the decisions of such judicial panels altogether from the contemplations of Section 182(1) (i). This appeared to be the crux of the APC appeal which was dismissed across all levels of court. The certificate allegations were equally dismissed as it had been brought before the courts previously and had been adjudged to be valid.

However, looking forward from this judgment, a thorny issue emerging from Ekiti State is the present bid by the majority APC lawmakers in the state assembly to impeach Fayose. A notice of impeachment has been submitted to the governor and by all indications, the state assembly is set for a repeat of 2006.

There have been calls for the legislators to halt the impeachment proceedings, which include letters to the NJC. It is curious that the NJC is being called to intervene in state legislative processes. It is clear that once the lawmakers follow the provisions of Section 188 or 189 of the constitution, nobody or other arm of government, may interfere in its proceedings. As such, it would seem that it is completely within the powers of the Ekiti State House of Assembly to exercise its powers under the constitution providing that all acts are done within constitutional boundaries. Therefore, the suits filed on behalf of the governor including that filed before Justice Ahmed Mohammed of the Federal High Court sitting in Abuja, cannot stop the state’s lawmakers from performing their constitutional role, but can only rule on whether certain acts are

legal or otherwise.

The absurdity of the situation in the Ekiti State House of Assembly is reminiscent of the Rivers State crisis where the house mace was destroyed after it was smashed against the head of one member of that house. The facts are similar, with a PDP minority seeking to impose a speaker of their choosing on a majority APC House of Assembly, despite not having the required numbers to perform such an act under the constitution. In the Ekiti case, PDP lawmakers are carrying on an absurd legal anomaly by foisting Dele Olugbemi on the house as speaker, despite the fact that APC’s Adewale Omirin, the legally appointed speaker, has not been impeached as the constitution provides.

To make matters worse, the majority APC members have deserted the legislative complex to conduct sittings at the state university because their safety is not guaranteed.

The seven PDP members of a 26member house that presumably ‘impeached’ the Speaker present the presence of the Clerk of the House and the sergeant at arms in their midst as well as the house mace as proof of their legitimacy. Apart from the backing of the governor, no part of the constitution has been invoked to legalise their claims. The situation leaves the illegal faction conducting proceedings in the house while the otherwise legal faction is conducting sittings outside the legislative chambers, which, in itself, is against the Supreme Court judgment in Inakanju v. Adeleke.

These repeated occurrences continue within our political system, despite the apparent rascality of the acts and their illegality. It sends the message that the political class is immune to logic and are bent on dragging the country back to the old days of the rule of force rather than the rule of law. It is particularly distressing that while strides are seem-

Dele Agekameh ingly being made towards a saner society fit for modern participation in civilised practices around the world, some elements within our system are unwilling to cultivate the art of statesmanship or learn the rudiments of modern politicking. It bothers the mind as to whether our moral fibre as a society is so stained as to reject progressive thinking and civilised behaviour at all levels.

It is not enough for hapless individuals to perpetrate unfounded illegalities and thereafter head to the courts to exploit the machinery of law. The law is not there to be used as an instrument in political warfare but stands alone as the sole authority in the country. As long as legal action is an afterthought for the ‘ruling class’, then real peace will always be threatened. The courts need to also be firmer in admitting or rejecting claims and where claims are admitted, final, definitive decisions must be made that will themselves stand as a backdrop for admitting future claims. As much as the law is open for aggrieved parties to lay their claims, it is also a pre-cursor to gaining that recourse that a case should contain actual legal issues and not mere confirmation of obvious outcomes that are plain in the constitution. May God help Ekiti State, help Nigeria.

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THE NATION WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22, 2015

COMMENTS ‘It is a pity that Senator Musiliu Obanikoro is still living behind the time in the ‘new’ Nigeria. Obanikoro should understand that he cannot reap where he has not sown. He has sowed the seed of discord around himself. He was in the centre of the electoral malfeasance that took place in Ekiti State and he is trying to transfer the virus to his son, which will be suicidal. The earlier he got it right, the better for him and his political class. From Hamza Ozi Momoh, Apapa, Lagos’ •Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala For Olatunji Dare It is a new dawn for Nigeria as APC takes over governance on May 29. Rapid development is on the way for Buhari’s government in every sector. - From Gordon Chika Nnorom For lack of space and time, just to say thank you for the beautiful comment in The Nation.

Felt you even more on the part about my state. Do have a great week ahead always. From Rotimi Fafure, Lagos As far as I am concerned, Governor Ayo Fayose does not hold the pace in Ekiti politics. Very soon, the truth will be told. - From Elder Ezekiel, Ilorin.

The most important thing the APC government will do for Nigerians is to just tap at one sector of our system - corruption - and every other thing is fixed. We know Gen. Buhari for that and that’s why we heavily voted for him. This is one last chance Nigeria has. Thank you, sir. - From Steve Mba, Enugu.

The incoming ruling party must work harder than it did to win the election, if it must translate its promises to reality. - From J. B. Shikmang, Jos The PDP ship has sank in a turbulent ocean; it is clear that the team was eagerly seeking the saddle for megalomania not to revamp the nation, but thanks be to God. - From Olude Quadri Keulere, Ifo. I’m at a loss at the description of Jonathan as a statesman just for conceding to Gen Buhari after the election as an elite way of having soft-landing. A confessed terrorist or an armed robber who owns up can also aspire to the Nigerian type of statesmanship.

President Jonathan has no claim to the borrowed robe; his divisive political activities in Lagos and other places have counted against him now and later in the nearest future. - From Sanmi, Oke-Ilesa Thank God for the combining efforts of the president-elect Buhari and Tinubu that rescued Nigerians from the misrule of the most corrupt, clueless and shoeless president.

Uhmm, in Ekiti State, for governor Fayemi ruled as more of elite and saw Ekiti as animal kingdom but voting Fayose as his replacement is still a tragedy. May God deliver us. From Alex-Adekunle,Igogo-Ekiti From every indication, you’ll find out that over 80% of Nigerians expects Buhari to stand by his word of change in our government because he is a man of integrety. - From Samuel Nwangue, Eleme,Rivers State.

I wish to tell that Ayo Fayose reign of terror would soon be a foregone issue. - From Funso Olayinka, Oye Ekiti.

Re:This defining moment. The political occurrence from March 28 till date should be a lesson to Nigerians and political class that ‘nobody lasts ad infinitum’. PDP must have learnt lessons while APC should not be over joyous. That ‘change’, we are all waiting to see in the first four years. Never crucify Fayose!

That may be own gift politically no matter the abuses you may be raining on him. However, his pre-election outburst on General Buhari should be a lesson to him that ‘Only God knows tomorrow’. - From Lanre Oseni.

Thanks for your comment in The Nation. My appeal to President-elect General Buhari is: be just, be honest, be patient and also fight Boko Haram seriously; fight corruption in our motherland. Finally, I congratulate President-elect General Muhammedu Buhari and APC governors- elect, May Allah help them fulfil their promised to Nigerians, Ameen. From Umar Faruk Ibrahim, Gusau Though the governorship election didn’t go as expected, I was happy that my Igbo brethren later retraced their steps and allowed discretion to prevail in their camp as they turned

and voted for Akunwmi Ambode of Lagos State to win. Another victory that made my day was that of Dave Umahi of Ebonyi State.

The old Abakaliki block for the past 16 years had held sway the governorship position of the state with the Ebonyi South only considered fit to play the second fiddle.

Ironically, the late Eze Ogo Akanu Ibiam, the former governor of the old Eastern Region, in whose influence Abacha created Ebonyi State, is from Unwana, Afikpo, Ebonyi south. Though the governorship slot was said to have been ceded to the south this time with Prof Onyebuchi Chukwu as the annoited candidate, that Umahi (also from the South) “hijacked” the position and won, is still a thing of joy to the people of the south who are having the state power shifted to their area for the first time. From Emmanuel Egwu I’m well pleased at the article: This defining moment. It is full of wisdom and encouragement. - From Godwin, Langtang.

Thanks for the piece ‘This defining moment’.

APC certainly has a mountain to climb, making an attempt to right the wrong that are massive in four years. It is, indeed, Mount Everest. Let us wish good luck with our prayer in an attempt to climb Everest. - From Olabode majekodunmi. Abeokuta.

For Segun Gbadegesin Re: A new social contract. It is a welcome development that the PDP has crashed out after 16 years of non-performance. The APC government should brace and perform and should not make it look like the story of a tortoise who sneaked out into his father-in-law’s farm in the midnight to steal a small quantity of yams and was caught red-handed. The fatherin-law decided to punish the tortoise by tying him to a palm tree by the road side where other villagers going to their farms in the morning would see him. When they were told of what happened, they blamed tortoise. They abused him abysmally. However, the reactions of the villagers changed when they were returning in the evening and still met him tied up serving his punishment. They turned against the father-in-law. The blame was for the tortoise in the morning while the fatherin-law got his in the evening. So, if God is going to punish a dog, He will put a wound on its head. This is what has happened. PDP members lost disgracefully because they did not perform. I do agree that ego is destructive if it succumbs to irrationality. It is rationality that brings progress. The people have hope that APC will take them to the promised land.

Please don’t dash it. - From Prince Adewumi Oyeromade Agunloye A new social contract by Segun Gbadegesin; this is a master piece with an in-depth analogy. For there to be a social contract, the people have to give their assent to the government. To suffice, the apex representative of the social contract act needs to be elected by the people consent. In past administrations, the social contract had been forged since leaders were selected in anomic circumstances, but with the introduction of card readers, the will of the people would be the ruling force of our society. - From Omobulejo Tobiloba Joseph,Yaba Lagos.

Your column always speaks volumes. Success has actually manifested on the side of APC; we expect a change as Nigerians.

Congrat Segun. - Anonymous Your column of The Nation of April 17, 2015 is just like exhortations from the great prophets of yore. If the incoming governments and leaders refuse to hearken to such inspired words, it will be tragic for both the rulers and the ruled. Sir, keep on with more of such pieces. - From Bayo Olafusi.

For Gbenga Omotoso Mr Gbenga, you forgot to address Minister Adesina as a fine boy who also introduced customised agric cell phones to farmers. The only known snag was that farmers who were alerted to go collect their share of fertiliser got nothing upon reporting to the issuing warehouses. - Anonymous Thanks for your article. God bless you. You have said it all. - From Godwin Saviour These crafty characters took Nigerians for fools by pooling wool over their eyes for selfish reasons believing that we are still the old gullible fellows. All is now history. They won’t be missed. - From Chachafa V, Abuja Good day, Mr. Omotoso. I read your article on Mr President and his cabinet. You were mostly negatively minded and could not see anything good about Jonathan and his team. A lot of good things happened also amid all.

Write about these good things also. - Anonymous Re:We shall miss them. Don’t say I did not warn you. You will kill me. I can’t stop chuckling!

Nice day!! - Anonymous In “We shall miss them all”, you were very cozy on Reuben Abati, preferring to veil his intellectual con artistry. I find him most culpable as a pedantic fraud. He was most scatting of every government policy before he joined the crooks in power which he overreached trying to defend. - Anonymous Thank you for enlightening us about the whole scenario about this administration, God bless you. - Anonymous Well, we shall miss them all? Well, we shall miss Dr. Adesina, a man who built a reputation on things he intended to do for agriculture and not what he actually achieved.

Adesina also cooked the statistics to support his intentions, to be recorded as his achievements. Bye-bye Adesina. - Anonymous Really, Nigerians will miss some powerful leaders, but let the incoming government accommodate Dr Adesina for his performance in the agricultural sector. - From Gordon Chika Nnorom Good opinion. Let Dr Olusegun Aganga and his N220bilion promise that was, indeed, not accessible for the small scale industries reflect in next edition. Also, is National Economic Reconstruction Fund (NERFUND) Abuja actually helping Nigerians, especially the entrepreneurS to reconstruct the economy by given them loans? They keep on saying no funds. Please Research on this. - From Mr O.A Hosea, Minna Re: We shall miss them all. Notwithstanding all that you wrote on few of the various partakers in outgoing President Jonathan’s six-year administration, I think we, in Nigeria, need to learn great lessons from the manner power slipped off the hands of Jonathan and PDP! That, power is not perpetual and not impossible to lose where sleep slips off the right-doing of things from power holders! Quite a pity, the outgoing President did his best; he had many bootlickers who only came to ‘eat rather than govern’. APC is to learn better rather than being over joyous. Till 2018. Hip! Hip! Hip! Hurray. - From Lanre Oseni.

Your vintage self. You could have repeated “just like that”? So many times like Fela. I hope they will not all “get-away” with all those things just like that. - Anonymous Re: We shall miss them all. Please next time you intend to do an article in pidgin, consult us in Warri and Sapele. Thanks for that beautiful one.

- From McCartney Obrotu.

Mr Omotoso, thanks for article your in The Nation. I read it and was very excited. - From Akewushola M.B. Gbenga, I always like to read your Editorial Notebook whenever I buy The Nation because of the way you present facts, I wonder where Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala will be when this new government will prove her wrong. Like the minister of Agriculture, she was just making

•Musiliu Obanikoro noise about federal allocation. God will judge all of them. Thank you for your good work. From Jaafaru Iluebe, Warri.

Nigeria’s elites are aware of your briliant article, but the problem was, as a citizen, there is nothing an individual can do. The evil of Jonathan’s administration has plunged the country into a big messs that no matter how credible the incoming administration, it will take them a hell of stress to salvage the nation from these nigthmares. For us to get relief as a nation, Jonathan’s administration must be probed and proceeds from this should be used to better the country. - From Ogunsanya S.A. Abuja.

Sir, your article titled: We shall miss them all is mind-blowing and hilarious. It’s a wonderful flashback to the Jonathan administration. However, you ought to have captured the almighty Chief Edwin Clark, the so called godfather of Jonathan. Clark suddenly became a formidable force in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the extent that he could suggest who should be shown the way out of the party. He urged his party to expel former president Olusegun Obasanjo. Not to have been left out is Orubebe, who, in a bizarre show of shame, attempted to disrupt the declaration of results by INEC at the collation centre. We shall miss them all. - From Hundu S.A. Makurdi For Tunji Adegboyega Re: How far can the customer go? Customer is king with limits. Yes, N16m purchase price is a huge sum, but three times change/replacement for a faulty car is commendable for Coscharis.

Mrs Omorodion could not get such reward/replacement in Germany. What if the fourth replacement was done and suggestively, she was being confronted by a spiritual difficulty/problem? Will Coscharis replace the fifth time? As it is, the Consumer Protection council (CPC) needs to protect nothing as it cannot satisfy either of the two parties. Let us see the commercial sense that the judiciary would bring into this faulty car case when either party resorts to that. To me, Coscharis had done enough; Mrs Omorodion should seek spiritual solution. From Lanre Oseni.

The truth of the matter is that the Consumer Protection Council (CPC) is not living up to their billings to protect and monitor the products consumers are using in Nigeria, like in other nations. The incoming government should focus on the CPC with a view to empowering it to be able to carry out its functions effectively. From Gordon Chika Nnorom, Umukabia, Abia State.

Gone were the days of ’omoluabi’ when children would humbly draw the attention of their father to behaviours that might tarnish the family name because they knew that the father’s misdemeanor would have effect on how the society at large saw and treated them. What do we have now? A man publicly accused of stealing what belongs to the society would still be gallivanting around without a thought for the family name. And the bigger tragedy, ask his children what they feel, they would tell you that people should stop embarrassing their dad. So, Obanikoro Jr. is only following an unworthy tradition. From Simon.

It is a pity that Senator Musiliu Obanikoro is still living behind the time in the ‘new’ Nigeria.

Obanikoro should understand that he cannot reap where he has not sown. He has sowed the seed of discord around himself. He was in the centre of the electoral malfeasance that took place in Ekiti State and he is trying to transfer the virus to his son, which will be suicidal. The earlier he got it right, the better for him and his political class. From Hamza Ozi Momoh, Apapa, Lagos.

Thank you for commending the Awujale for his high class handling of Jonathan’s visit. My Oba, the Orangun Ile Ila (not Orangun of Oke Ila Orangun) also deserves commendation for not being part of the Ife crowd. From Dr Adebisi, Ila Orangun.

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22, 2015

25

BUSINESS THE NATION

E-mail:- bussiness@thenationonlineng.net

NLNG is one of the biggest success stories in our country. From what I am told, the company has invested $13 billion so far since inception, and has become a pacesetter in terms of revenue generation for the government.

-Minister of Trade and Investment, Dr Olusegun Aganga

Unilever set to make tender offer for more shares in Unilever Nigeria

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NILEVER Overseas Holdings, the United Kingdom-based foreign core investor in Unilever Nigeria Plc, has concluded arrangements to launch its tender offer for acquisition of additional equity stake in the Nigerian subsidiary in a transaction valued at about N43 billion or £144.5 million.

Authoritative sources in the know of the transaction told The Nation that Unilever had filed the tender document with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and secured the necessary approval to launch the tender offer. A source in the know at SEC confirmed that the apex capital market regulator has granted “no objection” letter to the tender document, a market refrain for regulatory approval.

Sources said Unilever will soon send out the tender offer document to shareholders of Unilever Nigeria ahead of the May 2015 annual general meeting of the conglomerate. As a tender offer, the offer will be made to shareholders directly and any shareholder who elects to sell some or all of their shares in Unilever Nigeria will have the opportunity to do so.

Citigroup Global Markets Limited and Chapel Hill Advisory Partners Limited have been the financial advisers to Unilever on the proposed transaction.

Under the acquisition tender, Unilever Overseas Holdings plans to increase its equity stake in the Nigerian company from 50.04 per cent up to a maximum of 75 per cent. Unilever Overseas Holdings proposes to acquire about 944.47 million ordinary shares in Unilever Nigeria at an intended offer price of N45.50 per share in cash.

Unilever Nigeria, which had traded N34 per share in the wake of the announcement, had rallied above N40. It opened this week at N43.43 and closed the first trading session lower at N41.65 per share.

At N34 per share, the proposed offer price initially represented a premium of 33.8 per cent on the company’s share price and a premium of 33.2 per cent on the three-month volume weighted average share price.

The conclusion of the pre-tender process foreclosed earlier caution by Unilever that it has not reached any definitive agreement to continue with the tender proposal. Unilever Overseas had stated that it may not proceed with the proposal or vary the terms of the proposal in any way.

While the attainment of 75 per cent equity stake will give Unilever Overseas the needed majority shareholding to effect major changes including delisting, mergers and acquisitions and share capital and corporate restructuring among others, the foreign core investor has promised to maintain Unilever Nigeria’s listing on the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE).

Unilever Nigeria has been struggling with rising financing expenses. While it witnessed considerable growth in its top-line and effectively curtailed its operating expenses in the first quarter, burgeoning financial expenses undermined the performance of the conglomerate during the period.

• SEC says no objection to tender

By Taofik Salako

Interim report and accounts of Unilever Nigeria for the three-month period ended March 31, 2015 showed that while sales grew by eight per cent and the group reduced operating expenses by nine per cent, a double in financial charges within the three months overwhelmed the performance of the conglomerate.

Unilever Nigeria’s pre and post tax profits dropped by 21 per cent each, a situation that simultaneously cut basic earnings per share by four kobo from 20 kobo in first quarter 2014 to 16 kobo in first quarter 2015.

Key extracts of the unaudited report showed that sales rose to N14.91 billion in first quarter 2015 as against N13.83 billion recorded in comparable period of 2014. Financial charges jumped by 114 per cent from N381.6

million in first quarter 2014 to N817.91 million in first quarter 2015. With this, profit before tax dropped from N1.09 billion to N864.74 million while profit after tax slipped by same margin from N750.63 million to N590.45 million.

The latest earnings report further raised concerns about the return outlook for the conglomerate after it recent announcement of reduction in dividend payout from N4.73 billion to N378.3 million. Current dividend recommendation released by the board of directors of the conglomerate showed that shareholders would receive a dividend per share of 10 kobo for the 2014 business year as against N1.25 received for the 2013 business year. The reduction highlights the steep decline in the performance of the company in 2014.

Key extracts of the audited report and accounts of Unilever Nigeria for the year ended December 31, 2014 showed declines in the top-line and the bottom-line. While sales were tepid, the bottom-line performance was however worsened by significant increase in finance charges.

Turnover dropped by seven per cent from N60 billion in 2103 to N55.75 billion in 2014. Interest expense, otherwise known as finance charges, however rose by 65 per cent from N1.16 billion to N1.91 billion. This further constrained the profitability of the conglomerate as pre-tax profit dropped by 58 per cent from N6.79 billion to N2.87 billion. After a 78 per cent reduction in tax provisions, net profit after tax dropped by 49 per cent to N2.41 billion in 2014 as against N4.72 billion recorded in 2013.

• From left: Director of Operations, Nigerian Railway Corporation, Mr Niyi Alli; Director, Special Services Office, Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF), Mr Abdullahi Shehu and Director, Special Services Office, Mr Delson Kaze, during a workshop on security consciousness and awareness for railway workers and users for the Southwest geo-political zone in Lagos.

Backward integration ‘ll cut palm oil import by $300m

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N-GOING backward integra tion plan for palm oil em barked upon by PZ Wilmar Nigeria Limited, a palm oil processing, packaging and distribution company, will help Nigeria save foreign exchange by eliminating imports to the value of $300 million per year now being spent on palm oil import, its Managing Director, Mr. Santosh Pillai, has said.

The backward integration programme, which aims at making the country self-sufficient in oil palm production would also create about 9, 000 direct and 45, 000 indirect jobs, Speaking on the sideline during the award of the International Standard Organisation (ISO) 22000:2005 Certification for food safety to the company in Lagos, Pillai said the company’s backward integration programme would deliver these benefits through upstream investments in oil palm plantations, as well as in refining and downstream distribu-

How Buhari will run economy, by analyst - P 26

By Chikodi Okereocha

tion.

He said: “With refinery capacity of over 300, 000 tons per year, it will reduce Nigeria’s estimated 500, 000 ton annual supply shortage by 60 per cent.”

According to Pillai, Nigeria’s total market for palm oil is estimated at two million tons, and local output meets about 75 per cent of total. He said to close the supply gap of crude palm oil in the country, the company is working to increase the availability of locally sourced products, as well as introducing modern plantation management. He said the company has acquired 26, 500 hectares of land in Cross River State for oil palm plantation, adding that the target is to acquire 50, 000 hectares soon.

The 26,500-hectare project is part of an integrated end-to-end value chain in oil palm production and processing. The project, according to Pillai, is

the result of a joint venture between PZ Cussons and Wilmar of Singapore to explore the opportunities in the agro-allied industry and in the process deliver benefits to the Nigerian economy.

He said: “Nigeria is endowed with human and natural resources. But one of the issues in its economic development is the ability to properly harness these endowments especially in areas it has competitive and comparative advantage.” He therefore, said the company’s backward integration plan was aimed at developing local capacity of palm oil production and restoring Nigeria’s position and visibility as a global player in palm oil.

“Nigeria was once the palm oil superpower, with oil palm accounting for about 80 per cent of export earnings. The joint venture investment is a significant and visible step, since independence, towards restoring Nigeria’s status as world-league player in the global palm oil industry.”

Ecobank grows net profit by 179%, declares one for 15 bonus - P28

Glo gives subscribers 200% bonus airtime

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ATIONAL operator, Globacom has launched three packages that offer subscribers the most affordable call rates in the telecoms industry.

The offers in the bouquet are 200 per cent bonus airtime and data, Glo Bounce and Data Bundles on Samsung Galaxy S6 Edge and Samsung Galaxy S6 Flat smart phones.

Its Regional Chief Marketing Officer, Mr. Ashok Israni, who unveiled the offers, said the 200 per cent bonus offer is aimed at empowering its subscribers to derive much more value and satisfaction from using the network, adding that to enjoy the bonus airtime, subscribers need to dial *200# to get on the bonus platform.

On the platform, any recharge of N200 and above instantly gives Glo subscribers 200 per cent bonus airtime subscribers can use to call any network any time of the day within seven days. In addition, they get extra N200 they can use to call 10 family and friends. The Family and Friends feature is activated by dialing *101*1*phone number of the family or friend.

Mr. Israni said the subscriber also gets free 15megabytes (MB) of data instantaneously. In addition, he said the subscriber will receive one minute free airtime for every three minutes of call to any one person.

For subscribers who load N100, they get instant bonus of 100 percent and 5MB of free data.

Mr. Israni said Glo Bounce will facilitate seamless and affordable communication among young subscribers.

According to him, the product allows subscribers who sign up to the plan to call each other at a heavily discounted rate of 11 kobo per second.

The Bounce product, which has been significantly enhanced, also has a feature tagged ‘Campus Zone’ which when activated by customers will enable them to call other lines at the rate of 11 kobo per second.

In addition, they will get 15MB free for every recharge of N200 and above. They also get unlimited , free SMS with the offer.

To get on the Bounce platform, subscribers are requested to dial *170*4#. To opt for Campus Zone, they are required to dial *170*9#.

They also have an option of migrating to Generation G to enjoy the 200 percent bonus airtime on every recharge of N500 and above; 100 percent bonus on recharges of N200; and 50 percent bonus on recharges of N100. To get on the Generation G platform, customers need to dial*170*5#.

The third offer launched at the press conference is on the latest Samsung Galaxy S6 Edge, which comprises Samsung Galaxy S6 Flat and Samsung Galaxy Edge.

Mr. Israni explained that the devices have been bundled with free SIM and 4.5GB data upon activation by customers.

Zenith Bank records N33b profit in three months

- P37

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22, 2015

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THE NATION

BUSINESS MONEY

e-mail: money@thenationonlineng.net

How Buhari will run economy, by analyst H

OW will the incoming Buhari administration manager the economy in the face of fallen oil price? It is by instituting tighter fiscal measures to boost revenue, says Olubunmi Ashaolu, the analyst at FBN Capital, an investment and research firm.

In an emailed note to investors titled: Welcome recovery in auction bid, he said in the absence of higher oil price to support public finance, the incoming government may go for tighter fiscal managements.

Ashaolu listed tax exemptions, duty waivers, oil revenue inflows, officials’ allowances and ineffective ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs), as areas where fiscal management could be tightened to boost investors’ confidence.

If there is to be fiscal transformation, it will come in stages, he said, adding: “Members of the circle around the president-elect have sought to manage expectations and indicated that Nigerians may not see sizeable changes until October.

Stories by Collins Nweze

The 2015 budget process, almost concluded, limits their room for maneuver,” he said.

The economist said investors’ rising confidence in the economy is reflected in improvement in bond auctions done by the Debt Management Office (DMO) after the elections.

The DMO held its latest monthly auction of Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN) bonds last week and raised its target of N70 billion. The total bid of N186 billion was the highest since July last year and a sharp increase on the previous month’s N116 billion.

“Local institutional buying picked up on the positive momentum generated by the elections.

The offshore community also made an appearance: some players may have re-entered the market, having seen the theory of a third devaluation after the elections overtaken by events. The cut-off point (stop rate) for the same three debt issues was about 200 basis

points lower along the curve than at the auction in March,” he said.

Last Friday, yields (bid) on the Feb ‘20s and Mar ‘24s were just below 14.0 per cent. “We do not see many more legs to this current rally: it is based on a recovery in the naira exchange rate (for foreign investors) and a fiscal story which the administration due to take office in late May would like to talk down,” he said.

Besides, portfolio inflows to the country jumped since last month’s presidential election, easing pressure on the naira, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has said.

CBN Director, Financial Markets, Emmanuel Ukeje, said: “There is more confidence that the economy will grow as the outlook of foreign investors is very upbeat.

“It is expected that the pressure on the naira will abate following the peaceful conclusion of elections. Although other contending factors like low oil prices in the international market still affect the availability of foreign exchange,

the pressure should now reduce.”

The CBN has been trying to bolster the currency since last year by limiting foreign-exchange trading and selling down its foreign re-

serves. The foreign exchange reserves stood at $29.6 billion on April 9, CBN data show. That’s the lowest in at least a decade, according to HSBC Holdings Plc.

Standard Chartered, Elephant Group strike deal

S

TANDARD Chartered Bank in the sole financial adviser to Elephant Group, which has struck an equity investment deal with AfricInvest.

Elephant Group Limited, the Nigeria-based agricultural commodities company, which announced the completion of the transaction said the deal would allow AfricInvest Fund III to acquire minority equity interest in the firm via issuance of new shares.

It said the funds raised will be used to boost Elephant Group’s market share in agricultural commodities trading and deepen penetration of agricultural commodities exports across selected markets in Africa. The Group will also continue to strengthen its backward integration initiatives in the rice, crude palm oil and fertiliser value chain.

Standard Chartered Bank Head Mergers & Acquisition, West Africa, Yemisi Deji-Bejide said the lender is delighted to have worked with Elephant Group in achieving

its strategic objectives and remains committed to assisting businesses in Africa attract growth capital.

Founder and Group Managing Director of Elephant Group, Tunji Owoeye, said the firm is excited to partner with an African-focused investor with experience in the agricultural sector. The investment will enable the company to benefit further from government’s drive to promote agricultural productivity in Nigeria.

Also, Senior Partner & Managing Director of AfricInvest in Nigeria, Abiola Ojo-Osagie, said the firm has identified a company led by entrepreneurs and a management team with a sound knowledge of the domestic market.

“Through our partnership with the Elephant Group, AfricInvest is taking advantage of an opportunity to capitalise on Nigeria’s Agricultural Transformation Agenda to build an enduring institution with a clear potential for growth and regional expansion,” he said.

BVN ’ll improve loan access, says NIBSS chief

•From left: Deputy Governor of China’s Central Bank, Mr. Yi Gang; the Governor Central Bank of Nigeria, Mr. Godwin Emefiele and United States Chair of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, Janet Louise Yellen emerging from the G-24 meeting of the Ministers and Governors during the 2015 Annual Spring Meeting of the World Bank/International Monetary Fund events in Washington DC.

Four banks post N58.22b pre-tax profit

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OUR banks have posted a combined N58.22 billion pre-tax profit for the first quarter of this year despite what is perceived of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) “tough policies”.

Unity Bank Plc posted a 35.2 per cent rise in profit compared to N4.26 billion for the same period last year. The middle tier bank did not give reasons for the higher earnings but said in a statement that revenue rose to N16.5 billion against N14.97 billion in the period to end-March.

Also, Access Bank’s first quarter pretax profit rose 23 per cent to N16.5 billion from where it was a year ago, the top tier lender said.

Access Bank also did not give a reasons for the rise in pretax profit.

Gross earnings rose by 18.5 per cent to N245.2 billion during the period to end-March, it said.

Guaranty Trust Bank Plc also released its unaudited financial results for the first quarter ended March 31 to the Nigerian and Lon-

don Stock Exchanges. A review of the first quarter results showed that the bank continued on a strong growth trajectory, re-affirming its position as one of the most profitable and well managed financial institutions in the country.

The bank recorded a 17 per cent growth in Gross Earnings to N79.02 billion, from N67.58 billion recorded in the comparative period of last year, underpinned by strong growth in interest income and effective management of operating expenses and risk cost.

Profit Before Tax was N32.65 billion, an increase of 17 per cent from N28.01 billion reported in first quarter of last year. The bank reported a first quarter 2015 Profit After Tax of N26.56 billion, marking an increase of 15 per cent over the N23.11 billion reported last year.

The bank closed first quarter of this year with Total Assets and Contingents of N3.15 trillion, customer deposits of N1.69 trillion and share-

holders’ funds of N357.59 billion.

The bank’s non-performing loans improved to 3.06 per cent from 3.40 per cent in the comparative period of last year while its loan book grew by 28 per cent to close at N1.30 trillion in first quarter of this year, from N1.02 trillion same period of last year.

GTBank’s CEO, Segun Agbaje, said the major focus for the bank this year is to strengthen market positions with distinctive customer propositions in chosen segments in order to deliver long-term sustainable and efficient growth as well as strong shareholder returns.

However, Stanbic IBTC Holding Company, a unit of South Africa’s Standard Bank, said its first quarter pretax profit fell 46 per cent to N4.81 billion versus the same period last year. It did not give any reason for the decline in profit but said in a statement that revenue rose to N33.73 billion for the period to end-March from N30.22 billion a year ago.

The Bank Verification Number (BVN) will facilitate financial stability, Nigeria Interbank Settlement System (NIBSS) Managing Director Mr. Ade Shonubi has said.

He said once banks could identify and blacklist fraudulent customers through BVN, they would be encouraged to give loans to credit worthy customers.

BVN, he said, is an initiative aimed at protecting customers and strengthening domestic banking.

Shonubi noted that apart from the challenge of identifying customers, a major hindrance to retail credit was the perception that most Nigerians would always look for ways of failing to repay loans. BVN, he added, would address this problem by identifying and distinguishing between fraudulent and honest citizens.

He said: “When the BVN project came up, there were three key things. First and most important of all is for us to identify our customers and to identify them uniquely across banks and across accounts. So, once you have BVN, even if you have 10 bank accounts, it is the same BVN that will be tied to the bank accounts. Now, relating to identifying is the possibility of banks blacklisting people who have committed financial infractions. It could be fraudsters; it could be people who have gone to forge documents because what happens today is that the same guy will go to a bank, commit fraud, then run to another bank because there is no way of tying all these activities across. So, we found out that there were quite a lot of losses related to these individuals from one bank to another.”

Consequently, he said BVN will allow lenders to start building retail credit. “This is because a concern for bank is, if I lend you money now and you go away, how do I identify you? So, you find that the

entire retail consumer lending is to people with formal employment, that is why you see everybody running to the oil companies to say ‘let’s give your staff car loan; let’s give your staff consumer loan; let’s give your staff TV loans.’ But there are a lot of self-employed people working in smaller organisations, who should also benefit.

“Nobody wants to take the risk on them because if they resign today and run away, how are you going to get your money? Once they have bank accounts, the BVN allows us to identify them.”

The BVN involves the registration of customers in the financial system using biometric technology making accounts more secure by using unique identifiers such as fingerprints.

As part of efforts to encourage enrolment on the BVN, the CBN directed banks to only honour transactions over N100 million from customers with BVN from March this year. Such transactions according to the apex bank, include but not limited to, money transfers, loans, and contingencies, among others.

The regulator also urged all bank customers to register for their BVN

by June this year, warning that any customer without a BVN would be deemed to have inadequate knowyour-customers (KYC) by that date.

Analysts have also described the BVN as a ‘silver-bullet solution’ to many of the challenges in the banking industry. The BVN is a unique identifier for each bank customer across the financial industry, making it possible to build and track customer financial history and activity. This will allow banks’ access to more reliable information that could inform decisions on customer loan and credit applications and other complex transactions.

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22, 2015

27

MONEY The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has adopted policies to protect depositors’ funds in banks with Holding Company (HoldCo) structure. Some banks have embraced the arrangement which comes with challenges, such as, reduction of transaction costs, writes COLLINS NWEZE.

CBN, HoldCo and depositors’ funds T

HE banking sector has since the 2009 reforms been undergoing restructuring. This inludes the overhaul of their risk management structures; 10-year tenure for Chief Executive Officers and repeal of universal banking practice which led to some adopting the Holding Company (HoldCo) structure.

A HoldCo is a corporation formed for the purpose of holding a controlling interest in several companies. It enables a corporation to diversify its investments, manage other firms and contribute to the growth of companies in different sectors.

CBN took this step to ensure that banks do not abuse lending privileges presented by the structure. Its action followed the setting aside of universal banking in 2010, thereby giving banks the option to either divest all their non-banking subsidiaries and become pure commercial banks or form a HoldCo. The order is in compliance with the CBN’s Regulation on the Scope of Banking Activities & Ancillary Matters, No. 3, 2010. It requires the separation of commercial banking business from other financial services businesses.

CBN Director, Banking Supervision, Tokunbo Martins, said restrictions have been placed on banks’ lending to their HoldCos to protect shareholders’ funds from insider abuse.

She said any bank that violates the rule will have the loaned funds deducted from its shareholders’ funds as return capital.

Although the Bank and Other Financial Institutions Act (BOFIA) mandated the banks to adopt the structure, there is also need to monitor their operations to forestall abuse.

HoldCos First Bank of Nigeria, Stanbic IBTC Bank, United Bank for Africa and First City Monument Bank have adopted the HoldCo structure.

Managing Director, First Bank of Nigeria Limited, Bisi Onasanya, said the new structure will present a better deal for its shareholders, especially as they got equal proportion of their shares in the FBN Holdings. He said the bank has offloaded First Registrars and some other subsidiaries, while all the existing subsidiaries, including First Bank, have become a subsidiary of the First Bank of Nigeria Holdings (FBNH).

Chief Executive Officer, Stanbic IBTC Holdings, Sola David-Borha, said the initiative would consolidate the strengths and expertise of different business unit and enhance the group’s ability to drive future growth.

“The HoldCo would guarantee significant benefits to shareholders, employees and customers.

Under the new structure, Stanbic IBTC will be averaging the global network of Standard Bank Group, Africa’s biggest banking group in terms of assets and earnings, to which Stanbic IBTC belongs,” she said.

David-Borha also said the HoldCo structure is consistent with the group-wide approach of the Standard Bank Group, which would allow the various subsidiaries to call on the group-wide expertise of the parent model.

She noted that the HoldCo structure will ensure that commercial

• CBN headquaters, Abuja

banks’ retail depositors are not exposed to the risks associated with the non-banking activities of the remainder of the group, and that all customers of Stanbic IBTC and its subsidiaries will continue to enjoy the services currently provided through the other subsidiaries by keeping all existing lines of business. She said “the employee base would not be affected adversely.”

Managing Director, United Bank for Africa, Phillips Oduoza, said given the bank’s exponential growth and investments across Africa, it is beginning to derive significant values from these investments hence the decision to have a HoldCo. That decision, he said, will keep its entire bank and nonbank subsidiaries within the group.

Chairman FCMB, Jonathan Long, said the decision to form a holding company was in line with CBN’s directive to banks to separate the non-banking subsidiaries from commercial bank, stating that the bank decided to re-organise via scheme of arrangement, the non banking businesses within a holding company arrangement that would deliver and unlock value to the shareholders.

He explained that the new arrangement will see the migration of shareholders of FCMB to become shareholders of the Holdco, via a share for share exchange; sale of other disposable subsidiaries and transfer of permissible nonbanking subsidiaries and investments from the bank to the Holdco.

Lending by HoldCos Martins said should the HoldCos breach single obligor limits without the prior approval of the CBN,

such loans will be regarded as impairment to capital, or deducted from the lender’s capital base.

For purposes of credit transactions, the rule covers banks’ related parties, listed as financial holding company (FHC), and other subsidiaries within the group within the HoldCo structure.

Also, credit transactions by the bank within the group would be treated as FHC lending to a bank within its group. The bank should treat the loan as a liability but credit by a bank to its FHC would be regarded as a return of capital and deducted from the capital of the lender in computing its capital adequacy.

However, bank lending to subsidiaries within its group especially where the credit is fully secured, would be assigned a risk weight of 100 per cent, otherwise it would be deducted from the capital when computing capital adequacy.

The CBN said review of risk weights assigned to some identified exposures is without prejudice to the risk management control functions put in place by banks to mitigate credit concentration risks.

It is also in line with its risk-based supervisory agenda.

Martins said the recent crisis in the Nigerian banking industry highlighted several weaknesses in the system, key of which was the excessive concentration of credit in the asset portfolios of banks.

“Past experience revealed concentrations across products, business lines, and legal entities. The management of concentrations, or pools of exposures, whose collective performance may potentially affect a bank negatively, needs to be properly managed

through the establishment of sound risk management processes,” she said.

Hurdles The HoldCo structure adopted by some banks faces adverse tax implications, especially, excess dividend tax, tax experts have warned.

Taiwo Oyedele, a chartered accountant said based on the Nigerian tax law, where the dividend paid by a company is higher than its taxable profit, the excess dividend will be subjected to 30 per cent tax.

He explained that should a HoldCo receive dividend from its bank subsidiary, and then redistributes the dividend, such dividend will be subjected to 30 per cent excess dividend tax, not withstanding that the subsidiary that earned the profit had paid 30 per cent income tax.

Also, withholding tax at 10 per cent is always deducted before distributing the profit to the HoldCo. He said banks had previously faced similar challenges under the universal banking model on their exempt income.

“Where tax exempt income has been excluded from the determination of taxable profit but forms part of the distributable profit available for dividend, this will result in the dividend paid being higher than the taxable profit,” he said.

Oyedele said the problem will become more pronounced under the HoldCo structure since there will be at least one company between the bank and the shareholders.

Analysts insist that banks that have adopted the HoldCo structure

‘The dividend can only be taxed if it is reinvested at a second venture, otherwise, it amounts to double taxation. The position of the law is that it is only when the money is reinvested, that it should be subjected to further taxation’

will have to contend with burden of double taxation.

The believe that the subsidiaries of banks that adopted the structure have to pay taxes as well as the quoted company. Aside challenge of taxation the structure is in the interest of all stakeholders. For him, the HoldCo structure will increase earnings for investors and is also in line with CBN’s enhanced emphasis on transparency and accountability.

But the management of FBN Holdings Plc said the tax challenge has been handled.

CEO of FBN Holdings, Bello Maccido, said the HoldCos at inception faced a major concern over possible interpretation of existing tax statutes that would lead to the double taxation of dividends.

There was also a concern about the magnitude of transaction costs that would be incurred by the banks in responding to the change in regulations.

“It was therefore necessary for HoldCos to seek mitigation of some of these costs through waivers and concessions from the regulatory authorities. It was very clear that without government’s intervention, the companies would have faced possible challenges in this regard,” he said.

Maccido said the Coordinating Minister for the Economy, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala in concert with the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) team was instrumental to ensuring that tax issues were heard and resolved in good time.

He noted that the Securities & Exchange Commission (SEC), Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) and Central Securities Clearing System (CSCS) were equally very receptive to discussions on ‘reduction of transaction costs’ for bank HoldCos. However, Chukwuemeka Eze, a tax expert said taxing dividend from HoldCos amounts to overkill. He said it is only when the dividend is reinvested or transmitted into further ventures that it should be taxed. “The dividend can only be taxed if it is reinvested at a second venture, otherwise, it amounts to double taxation. The position of the law is that it is only when the money is reinvested, that it should be subjected to further taxation,” he said.

Shareholders’ views Coordinator, Progressive Shareholders Association of Nigeria (PSAN), Boniface Okezie, said the HoldCo structure remains a good arrangement. He said the shareholders have no choice because they cannot go against the will of the CBN, but can only watch to see how the structure pays off.

“I don’t have any problem with the structure once there is food on my table. We have embraced the structure provided our dividends are paid and corporate governance is adhered to,” he said.

National coordinator of Nigerian Shareholders Solidarity Association (NSSA) Sir Sunny Nwosu said the structure will protect shareholders’ value and lead to increased capital market valuations.

Also, Farouk Umar, President, Association for the Advancement of the Rights of Nigerian Shareholders (AARN) said the restructuring will result in greater value and provide each entity with easier access to long term capital to finance growth.

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THE NATION WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22, 2015

THE NATION INVESTORS

Demutualisation: Ogiemwonyi calls for strict due diligence on core investors for stock exchange S

ECURITIES and Exchange Commission (SEC) must outline procedures for strict due diligence and set out measurable criteria in selecting the core investor for the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) as stakeholders continue to express supports for the proposed demutualisation of the Exchange.

Chairman, Association of Issuing Houses of Nigeria (AIHN), Mr Victor Ogiemwonyi, said while the general outlines of the rules on demutualisation recently released by SEC are in line with expectations, the apex capital market regulator needs to further elucidate on the key considerations that will guide the choice of core investor.

According to him, given the strategic importance of the NSE and previous experience in the privatization of public assets, SEC must be wary of the tendency for misrepresentation by some people who may want to surreptitiously acquire control over the Exchange without the necessary technical expertise.

“The definition of who the core investor is, will be critical, Nigerians are very good at manipulating things like this, we may wake up tomorrow to find that the core shareholders defined in the sale documents as xyz will turn out to be Nigerians who have no such skills that was described to qualify them in the first place, and borrowing mainly from Nigerian banks to take advantage. We have seen that in the various privatizations that has been done to buy off public assets and institutions, as was in the case of Nitel for instance where people represented their technical partners to be HSBC only to find that it was all lies, HSBC did not even know they were bidding for assets in Nigeria. So we have to be very vigilant in this case,” Ogiemwonyi said.

He added that all representations

Stories by Taofik Salako Capital Market Editor

made by any prospective core investor should be checked thoroughly and there may be additional requirement for an affidavit to back the clams so that stakeholders can have legal ground to press for additional perjury charges against any bidder found to have lied as well as forfeiture of all such interest with no refunds of whatever was paid for the fraudulent bid.

Ogiemwonyi, a senior broker-dealer member of the NSE and managing director of Partnership Investment Company Plc, noted that SEC should give a timeline of at least seven years during which the core investor will be committed to strict implementation of its bid and any subsequent changes in

the structure presented at bid must be subject to new approvals by SEC and the general meeting of all shareholders.

“I find the rules rolled out by SEC to be very appropriate. The limit to shareholding is to ensure that no shareholder group can negatively dominate and make the postdemutualisation running of the Exchange difficult. For instance, Nigerian banking laws also used to require that no more than five per cent be held by individual shareholders.

The 30 per cent equity to a core investor is also necessary to make the strategic investor who will be the technical manager the dominant shareholder without having enough shares to overrule everyone else.

Despite having 30 per cent, it must get the support of others to push anything through,” Ogiemwonyi said.

He said the proposed demutualisation would enhance the development of the NSE and its stakeholders as the conversion would engender competitive growth for the Exchange and the general stock maket.

According to him, demutualization will lead to a more effective and efficient market. It will allow the Exchange to get the needed funding for its development. It will also help in showcasing the listing potential of the market by practically demonstrating that listing is good for all companies with the listing of the shares of the Exchange.

“The benefits to all stakeholders are

enormous. In my opinion, the demutualization of the NSE is overdue. For instance, we started talking about the demutualization of our Exchange two years before the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) in South Africa. Not only have they completed their own five years ago, they have also listed the shares and the JSE is considered one of the bestrun Exchanges in the world. The NSE as a public interest entity needs to be demutualized to better serve the needs of all stakeholders. It will become a modern corporation with the highest standards of corporate governance. It will become a public corporation, with many shareholders and independent directors to ensure its decisions are in the best interest of the public. It will also become more attractive to international investors,” Ogiemwonyi said.

From Left: Head, Information Security, Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), Mrs. Favour Femi-Oyewole; Executive Director, Market Operations & Technology, NSE, Mr. Ade Bajomo; Executive Director, Business Development, NSE, Mr. Haruna Jalo-Waziri and Head, Corporate Services Division, Mr. Bola Adeeko at the Nigerian Capital Market Information Security Forum (NCMISF) at the exchange.

Ecobank grows net profit by 179%, declares one for 15 bonus

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HE board of directors of Ecobank Transnational In corporated (ETI) Plc has recommended a bonus issue of one share for every 15 shares already held by shareholders as return for the immediate past business year ended December 31, 2014.

The bonus recommendation came as the financial services group announced that its net profit rose by 179 per cent in 2014. Key extracts of the audited report and accounts showed that net profit after tax jumped to N65.68 billion in 2014 as against N23.57 billion recorded in 2013.

Pre-tax profit rose by 144 per cent from N35.37 billion to N86.44 billion. Gross earnings had grown by 19 per cent from N319.56 billion in 2013 to N379.32 billion in 2014.

Further analysis showed that the total assets of the group grew by 25 per cent to N4.50 trillion in 2014 compared with N3.6 trillion recorded in 2013. Loans and advances also improved by 25 per cent from N1.82 trillion to N2.29 trillion. Customer deposit increased by 23 per cent to N3.24 trillion in 2014 as against N2.63 trillion in 2013. Total shareholders’ funds jumped by 45 per cent to N493.02 billion in 2014 as against N341.01 billion in 2013.

Group chief executive officer, Ecobank Transnational Incorporated (ETI), Albert Essien said the performance in 2014 was a great example of the benefit of the group’s diversified business model.

According to him, in what was a tough operating environment, the group remained focused on the importance of serving the financial needs of its customers across Middle Africa.

H e noted that the group grew cus-

tomer loans by $890 million or eight per cent, and deposits by $947 million or six per cent, particularly in core current account deposits, despite the adverse impact of dollar’s appreciation to the group’s key functional currencies.

He said all geographic clusters increased revenues higher than operating expenses and improved their cost-income ratios while the group further strengthened its capital base with groupwide Tier 1 capital increasing of approximately $981 million. The group Tier 1 capital ratio was 18.3 per cent as against 13.0 per cent in the prior year and total capital ratio was 20.4 per cent.

“Going forward, we remain

confident in the prospects for growth in Africa and in our dedicated staff, and are positioning the company for long-term success to achieve outstanding results for all our stakeholders, “ Essien said.

Ecobank recently signed a oneyear senior unsecured loan facility of $50 million arranged by Deutsche Bank AG. The facility will be used for general corporate purposes. The new $50 million loan facility brought total funding arranged by Deutsche Bank to $250 million. ETI had successfully raised $200 million loan facility from Deutsche Bank in December 2014.

Altogether, in recent months, Ecobank had raised approxi-

mately $1 billion in combined equity and debt capital for its parent company and its businesses in Nigeria, the largest of the group’s affiliates.

ETI had in December 2014 signed a loan facility agreement with the European Investment Bank (EIB).

The dollar-denominated loan facility agreement involved $100 million and will have a tenor of seven year.

Ecobank plans to use the loan to provide some of its subsidiaries with additional lending capacity as well as finance some of its group strategic capital expenditures.

The loan deal, according to the group, also demonstrated its commitments to contribute positively

to the African economy by increasing the levels of credit available to businesses while at the same time generating long-term value for its shareholders.

Essien said the group would use the fund to consolidate its operations across Africa.

“This funding continues our relationship with the European Investment Bank. It will allow us to continue to consolidate our expanded operations and translate our scale and geographical footprint into added value for our customers. We shall use the financing to maintain credit provision in key economies in Africa thus contributing to the development of the continent,” Essien said.

United Capital grows assets by 20% to N95b

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NITED Capital Plc ex panded its balance sheet by 20 per cent to N95.29 billion in 2014 as the investment banking firm continued to build up its financial strength and liquidity.

Audited report and accounts of United Capital for the year ended December 31, 2014 indicated that total assets rose from N79.48 billion in 2013 to N 95.29 billion in 2014. Cash and cash equivalents made up 33 per cent of the group’s assets, while financial assets made up 61 per cent of total assets.

Shareholders’ funds stood at N 9.31 billion while return on average equity closed at 21 per cent, underlining continued value creation for share holders.

The company recorded gross

earnings of N 4.68 billion, indicating an increase of 2.3 per cent. The gross earnings were driven primarily by fee and commission Income, which accounted for 39 per cent, while investment income accounted for 35 per cent. Profit after tax rose marginally from N1.76 billion in 2013 to N1.84 billion in 2014.

The company also grew net interest margin, which is income generated from funds under management by 103 per cent. However, operating expenses increased by 18.6 per cent from N2.1 billion in 2013 to close at N2.4 billion in 2014.

The management of the company noted that the 2014 profitability level was achieved notwithstanding that the company operated predominantly

in the capital market space where the equity market in general posted a negative return of 16.1 per cent.

The company stated that it demonstrated its patriotism and strong commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) through significant support valued at about N150 million in favour of the displaced victims of insurgency in the nation.

The company’s management expressed confidence in its ability to sweat the growth in assets to achieve greater profitability in future.

According to the company, the management’s current drive is for a reduction in cost to income ratio through income growth from all the businesses as well as the deployment of recently

acquired IT Infrastructure to drive efficiency.

“The company continues to play a leading role across its areas of operations in trusteeship, investment banking, asset management and securities.

It looks forward to expanding its scope of operations to comprehensively cover the entire investment life-cycle. It is the firm’s belief that as concerns over the political and economic landscape begin to ease, marked growth will be seen in the various business lines,” it stated.

Shareholders of UBA Capital had in December 2014 approved the change in the name of the company to United Capital Plc, paving the way for the investment banking and capital markets group to conclude the process of name change.

Newspaper of the Year

AN EIGHT-PAGE PULLOUT ON THE SOUTHWEST STATES

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INSIDE

HIS is not the best of time for the people of Ode-Irele, a sprawling Ikale community in Ondo State that was thrown into mourning last week following the sudden death of no fewer than 22 young persons in strange circumstances.

Horror has enveloped the ever bubbling town, headquarters of Irele Local Government Area of the state since a strange disease was reported in the community leading to the death of the young men.

Though the disease which manifests itself in several ways including severe headache has been traced by experts from the Federal Ministry of Health and World Health Organisation (WHO) to Ethanol poison found in the local gim (ogogoro) drank by the victims shortly before their death, the locals are blaming the theft of the town’s historical artefacts, kept in the sacred “Malokun” shrine by some unknown people for the outbreak of the disease.

They claim that their gods are not happy with the stealing of the artefacts and out of anger have sent the disease down on the community, particularly on the thieves.

It was indeed a strange development in the history of the town as the people of the community lamented that such unfortunate incident has never happened since the inception of the town almost 200 years ago.

Although controversies had initially surrounded the death of the victims thought by many to have contacted the dreaded Ebola Virus Disease (EVD), the picture somewhat became clearer when the traditionalists among the people disclosed that the victims died following their involvement in the theft of some ancient artefacts after they had visited the Malokun shrine, located in a secluded area of the town, without performing the necessary rituals.

This submission was however countered by medical experts including the state Commissioner for Health, Dr Dayo Adeyanju who stated that the position of the community has no scientific backing.

He posited that the strange disease could be linked to the presence of Ethanol poison in the alcoholic substance consumed by the victims.

“We strongly suspect ethanol poison and in view of this, We have ordered for another toxicology test for surviving victims’’ he said.

However, the people insisted that the epidemic was from the gods of the town who were angry with the community following the appearance of some unauthorised persons at the traditional shrine and the subsequent theft of some ancestral artefacts by these unknown people.

As at the press time, no fewer than 22 natives have been confirmed dead

PAGE 29

When a strange disease suddenly descended on Ode-Irele, a community in Irele Local Government Area of Ondo State ,last week killing no fewer than 22 persons at a go, the fear was rife that the dreaded Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) had arrived in the town, but that was not the case. DAMISI OJO reports that both the locals and the government are however in disagreement over the cause.

Ode-Irele deaths: Were the gods responsible?

•Chief Gabriel Oyewole

•Olofun of Irele,Oba Lebi •Malokun shrine

while many are still lying critically ill in various hospital beds.

The development has brought negative publicity to the town as the world is now aware of the report of the outbreak of the strange disease in the town.

When The Nation visited the community, many shop owners have returned to their shops and social activi-

I kept Folarin’s transformer to avoid chaos, says Seriki Hausawa PAGES 34

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22, 2015

ties gradually picking up despite the incident, but the issue is still being discussed in hushed tones by the residents.

Many were also seen mourning their beloved ones who died as a result of the strange disease.

The traditional ruler of the ancient town, Olofun of Irele kingdom, Oba Olanrewaju Lebi was said to be away

Community , church bicker over land PAGES 32

in Lagos when the ugly incident happened, but it was gathered that he had ordered that arrangementments be made for the rituals which would be used to appease the gods of the land.

The Oluomo of Irele Kingdom, Chief Jimi Adekanle who spoke on behalf of Oba Lebi explained that the disease was caused by the blatant disre-

gard of some individuals for the tradition of the community.

Adekanle said the gods of the land sent their wrath on the town following disobedience of some individuals who visited the Malokun shrine located in the town without performing the necessary ritual and Continued on page 31

Hotel’s special security arrangement excites Ekiti residents

PAGE 34

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22, 2015

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SOUTHWEST REPORT

•Road leaking to the disputed road

•Ogunkayode

In Agbodi village, a stretch of land between Maba and the Redeemed Camp, on the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway, two contending forces, the community and the Deeper Life Church are laying claim to about 44 hectares of land. The former said it never sold the land to the church and the latter claimed to have bought the land from the community’s older generation. An amicable resolution, however, could douse the tension the dispute has created, reports SEYI ODEWALE.

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HE sleepy community of Agbodi on Lagos-Ibadan Expressway would not have appeared in the news, but for the skirmishes that occurred last month in the area. What perhaps could have registered the community to anyone is a not too conspicuous nondescript green signboard nailed to the fence of a building at the entrance of the community’s expansive land and possibly the existence of the Deeper Life church in the area. And this possibly could have been when the church has its camp meetings at either Easter or Christmas periods.

However, the community was in the news some weeks back, not for something cheery, but for some acts of alleged lawlessness and brigandage by some youths of the area against the Deeper Life Bible Ministry Church, whose camp ground is in the community.

The church in a press conference held recently alleged that the youth demolished its perimeter fence of about 1,500-metre long worth N25million while trying to encroach on its land. In the words of the church’s building committee head, Pastor Alfred Ogene, the land was duly bought by the church from the community. “This land was bought by the Deeper Life Bible Church many years ago. After paying millions of naira to the owners, they issued us their families’ receipt, which we used to get the Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) from the last administration in Ogun State. We paid N750million for the papers.

“But some people, who claimed to be children of the owners, pulled down our fence in 2009, which was worth N10million. We decided to rebuild the fence and demarcate what we had left after they had resold a large portion of the land. But they came back and demolished that one too,” he said at the briefing.

But the community has since picked holes in the church’s claim, saying it is far from the truth.

According to the community’s Baale (traditional head) Taiwo Ogunkayode, the church never bought the land from them. The land, which is about44 hectares, Ogunkayode said, was cunningly taken from the community

by the church. “In 2008 we just noticed that Deeper Life Church had entered our land and was erecting structures and not that we sold the land to them.

We then challenged them. What we noticed then was that there was one Franklin Ehi, who was always coming to the land to hunt game. He used to come from Lagos to hunt on our land.

And they said they were interested in our land. The land actually belonged to many families, but being held in trust for them by the Baale.

“So, they then said we should allow them survey the land first to know its extent before coming to negotiate the value with us. And we agreed with them, but asked them to pay Owo iwoko and Owo ilagbe, which literarily means the money for entering the land and that of charting it. This is the tradition anywhere land matters come up. It is compulsory for anyone, who wants to purchase land in Yoruba land, to pay these levies to the land owners, otherwise called Omo Onile in Yoruba.

“They said after they must have known the extent of the land, they will start negotiating with us. We agreed based on the trust we had in them, particularly, Ehi, who was their middleman. Ordinarily, it is after someone must have paid for any land before he or she can be allowed to enter the land, no to talk of surveying it.

“Actually, the issue was before I became the Baale of the town. But when they had completed the survey, they did not fulfill their promise despite our repeated calls on them to do so. When I became the Baale in 2012, the town mounted another pressure on me to address the issue and ask them to pay for the land and since then we have been on the issue, Ogunkayode said in his narration.

But the church affirmed that the land was actually bought from the community and the only challenge it has is that some of those that actually sold the land to them were dead. “The challenge we have is that some of the men who sold this land to us are already late, and their children are saying they were very young as at the time the land was bought from their families and that they too want to ‘eat’ from the land,” Pastor Ogene said, adding that the land was bought to serve as the church’s camp and conference venue anytime

Community, the need arises for such.

Corroborating Pastor Ogene was the church’s camp administrative manager, Enabulele David, who said the land in question was acquired since 1996. “We started acquiring the land since 1996, apart from paying to the families, the church has equally paid about N750million to Ogun State for global C of O and of course, you cannot start the process of C of O without showing an evidence of family receipt or payment for the land in question. The Baale you met had gone with us to settle some problems when some other people secretly sold our land to some people. This same Baale, called Taye, had gone with us to the police to witness that the land in question had been sold to the church. Not only that, when the former governor of Ogun State, Otunba Gbenga Daniel toyed with idea of using our land for trailer park, this Taye was among those that went to the governor to say that the land belonged to them, but had been sold to the church,” he said.

He continued: “Normally, Owo Ilagbe will come up whenever anyone wants to enter the land and we have paid all those including Owo Iwoko. Now, we want to start erecting structures and we have agreed with them that we will pay them what they normally collect anytime anybody wants to start work on the land. In fact, the owner of that Green land Estate, the late Chief Esuruoso, was aware of the transaction on the land. He was a member of the family. He built on the portion of the land given to him by the family. If he was alive all this none sense would not have happened. In fact, they would not move an inch near the land. Part of the land they are laying claim to belonged to the man and he sold it to us. This Baale you are talking about collected money from the church he even signed for it. We will not buy anybody’s land without paying for it.”

Aside claims and counter claims of the ownership of the land, were allegations of attempted murder, breach of public peace and malicious damage of property by the church, its agents and proxies. The petitions, which were written variously to different organisations such as the police, the Chief of Army Staff and the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 81Division by a firm of Tunde Popoola and Associates, counsel to the community, the church was accused of using armed military men and police to harass, intimidate and take over the community land.

In a petition sent to the Chief of Army Staff, Abuja, some military personnel were allegedly used by the church to take over the community land. The petition read in part: “Kindly

be informed that some unscrupulous uniform men who claimed to be officers from the Nigeria Army had connived with some armed hoodlums to invade Agbodi Village in Obafemi Owode Local Government Area of Ogun State and caused a total breakdown of law and order and forcefully take over the community land.”

It continued: “The fact of the matter was, there is a land tussle between Agbodi Community and Deeper Life Ministry and the matter is currently pending before Ogun State High Court, Suit No AB/246/14. Rather than defend the matter in court, Deeper Life had chosen to employ the services of a land agent known with his deadly antecedent to invade the community with his hoodlums armed with sophisticated weapons, and with the active connivance of military men caused total breach of law and order.

The villagers had been sent on compulsory exile as their lives are under serious threat. The whole place is presently littered with cartridges from gunshots.”

But the church refuted all the allegations, saying they were ridiculous. According to them, it was the community that brought a land grabber, Ajagungbale, named Owoeye.

“The family went as far as bringing an

Ajagungbale called Owoeye to the land who, later saw that the family had sold their land to the church. He told them pointedly that you people have sold your land to the church,” Enabulele said.

He continued: “What Owoeye now said was that the only money they could collect from the church was Owo foundation and roofing, which we calculated at N18million and we paid them N10million, that when we now want to start the foundation we would pay the balance.”

Similar petitions were also written to the GOC 81 Division of the Nigerian Army on the alleged participation of some soldiers in the purported invasion of the community.

When The Nation sought to know if there was a pending suit on the disputed land, the church said it got an order in 2012 to restrain the community from trespassing on its land. It said the court on January 18, 2012 in suit AB/251/08, granted an application “restraining all the defendants, their servants, agent, privies and or whosoever from committing any further acts of trespass or in any way entering any part of the claimant’s parcel of land…situate at Mowe in Obafemi/Owode Local Government Area of Ogun State on the Lagos-Ibadan Express Way or from

•A resident alleged shot by security agents brought to the church

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22, 2015

31

SOUTHWEST REPORT But some people, who claimed to be children of the owners, pulled down our fence in 2009, which was worth N10million.

We decided to rebuild the fence and demarcate what we had left after they had resold a large portion of the land. But they came back and demolished that one too.

church bicker over land allotting, transferring any part or portion of the said land to anyone whosoever, or from interfering in any way with the claimants possession of the said land.”

On allegation of thuggery and brigandage both parties are accusing each other of being guilty. The church said two of its members, Frankly Osezua

and Festus Orimolade were being made to undergo mental torture and humiliating interrogation by the police.

The alleged introduction of police into the matter by the community according to the church made the issue to be messier.

The church said it was made to sign an undertaking under duress that it

will not enter into its own land again.

It accused one Banjoko of influencing the police to intimidate members of the church. But the Baale said Banjoko is the head of Shodiya family, one of the four families laying claim to the land, hence his involvement in the matter.

However, the church said though

it obtained an interlocutory injunction to restrain the community, their proxies and agents from trespassing on the land, it has not foreclosed amicable resolution of the problem.

“We have made efforts to settle with them. We, as a church, are not opposed to amicable settlement of the dispute.

Last year we asked them to bring

proposal on the resolution of the dispute and I believe we can still discuss with them. We have bent over backwards to discuss with them. We could have ignored them because we have the documents and the C of O on the land. And the courts are there to make declaration on the land,” Enabulele said.

Ode-Irele deaths: Were the gods responsible?

Continued from page 1

carted away some traditional artefacts which are synonymous with peaceful co-existence in the town.

His words “some individuals who we believe are robbers went to where we called ‘Oju Malokun shrine” in OdeIrele with an attempt to steal some antiquities at the Malokun shrine. It was impossible for them to steal many of the antiquities but eventually they stole some artefacts which are useful to the town, and that was the major cause of the problem we had in the town.

“The gods became angry and we informed the people accordingly, sending words round that anyone who stole or knew any person that stole any of the artefacts at Malokun shrine should return same within seven days, but they thought it was a joke. When we consulted the gods, the gods insisted that after seven days if the artefacts were not returned they will strike.

“This message was passed round the town. At the end of the day, the gods struck in a strange manner and lots of people were killed.

“There are ancestral artefacts and antiquities in this town that should not be seen by people including the traditional ruler of the town, except the custodian of the shrine. Some of these artefacts are deposited at Malokun shrine.

“These artefacts were stolen and the thieves felt they could go scot free,” Adekanle emphasised that only the custodian of the artefacts are allowed by the gods to visit the shrine and that could only be done at night.

But he said “from our findings these hoodlums and thieves went into the shrine which is located in a secluded area during the day and carted away the artefacts, hence the disease that cut their lives short.”

Also, the Oyewoga of Irele kingdom, Chief Moses Oyewole said it was the palace chiefs who met at the palace of the Olofun after the artefacts had been stolen that invoked the deity on the hoodlums and cursed them with strange disease for stealing their cher-

•Ode-Irele women fetching water for spiritual cleansing to appease Malokun

ished and historical artefacts after due warning for them to return them.

Chief Oyewole said the deity only visited the perpetrators of the devilish act through strange ailment to expose them.

His words “the disease was not anything short of the wrath of gods. It was meant for those involved in the stealing of the precious artefacts and not for the people of the town. Any one of those who stole the artefacts would be struck down by the ailment even if he or she is outside the town or even outside the country.

“We knew that none of the thieves will reveal that they stole the artefacts, because if they say the truth they will die. Many of them are the miscreants residing in the town. They are mostly commercial motorcycle riders. The effigies and historical artefacts they carted away were important to our exist-

ence in this community.

“We specifically told Malokun, the god of our land to punish those who looted the shrine. We asked the god to make them blind and kill them all. Few days after, we started hearing that some persons had headache, went blind and eventually died few hours after some of them turned black no matter how fair skinned they were before the illness.”

The Octogenarian traditional Chief who said such incident has never happened in the history of the town informed further that all the victims were males whose ages were between 25 and 35.

He appreciated the state government for deploying medical experts to the town, but said” the truth is that the matter is beyond orthodox medicine, it is purely traditional”.

Chief Oyewole regretted that the

community has not been able to recover any of the stolen artefacts, as according to him some of those involved in the theft “ were not able to talk when we saw some of them before they finally died. The government recorded 22 deaths, but the truth is that some were buried without the knowledge of the community or the government. So, those who died are likely to be more than what was recorded.”

One of the victims of the strange disease who is still in the hospital, Mr Gabriel Adegbehin however denied involvement in the looting of the shrine.

According to him, he was sitting at home when he discovered that he could no longer see well and later went to the hospital through the aid of his daughter.

He said: “I did not enter any shrine to steal anything. I lost my wife recently and I have been mourning since she

died some days ago. Later, I just discovered that I had chronic headache and after some hours I could not see well again.”

The state Commissioner for Health, Dr Adeyanju and his Information counterpart, Hon Kayode Akinmade have however allayed the fear of people that the disease was an Ebola Virus, saying that the samples from the victims had been taken for laboratory tests and the results did not suggest Ebola Virus Disease.

He said the state government influenced the deployment of World Health Organisation (WHO) officials to the town in an attempt to cure the disease, adding that the state government was also responsible for the treatment of the victims who were hospitalized.

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THE NATION WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22, 2015

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SOUTHWEST REPORT

How Mimiko’s vendetta eased me out of National Assembly, by Rep Abegunde The Supreme Court in a landmark judgment last week ruled that a member of the House of Representatives, Ifedayo Abegunde, representing Akure North/South Federal Constituency should vacate his seat in the National Assembly for defecting from the Labour Party to now defunct Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) in 2012. Abegunde, a two-term lawmaker spoke with DAMISI OJO on the court case and other related issues.

W

HY did you leave Labour Party [LP] for the defunct Action Congress of Nigeria [ACN]?

You can recall that I was a founding member of LP. I started with the Party as a sitting member of the House of Representatives and Chairman House Committee on intergovernmental affairs from 2003-2007. So I was a prominent member of the party and a financer. We went into an election against late Dr. Olusegun Agagu just two months when the party was launched in Ondo State. We went through a process which was now history but the end process produced Dr.Olusegun Mimiko.

Remember, I was a sitting House of Representatives member when Mimiko was Secretary to the State Government [SSG] under late Agagu before he became a minister. We partnered together to bring LP into Ondo State along with other prominent politicians in the state. I contested for the House of Representatives but I was rigged out by the ruling PDP. I went to court and the election tribunal sitting in Akure nullified the election but the Appeal court in Benin upturned the judgment on technical grounds that the case was filed late.

Mimiko called me immediately after the judgment that 2011 was around the corner.

For almost eight months, I was idle sitting down at home. The agitation became so much and Akure people were putting pressure on the governor to do something about my case which ordinarily should not occur at all.

At last, the governor appointed me as the Chairman of Aforestation. Aforestation is located far away along Lagos express road. The first day I resumed office in that place, I didn’t need anybody to tell me that it was deliberate on the part of Mimiko to send me out of the town. No light, no water, and no telephone network in that place. When the office opened an annex in Akure, I decided to operate from the Akure office rather than staying in that bush to risk my life. The governor b e c a m e furious and asked why I did not reside in t h e official quarters and stay

•Abegunde

at the head office located in that bush. I told him the condition of the place and that I will rather leave the job than to risk my life. We were on this issue when the 2011 election came and Mimiko who had earlier promised me started playing game. Many aspirants started showing interest. The governor had anointed candidate, Chief Olu Falae’s son late Deji also showed interest. At this point, came confusion and suspicious. He promised me the ticket, he also promised Chief Olu Falae to stabilize his government.

Meanwhile, the governor had given instruction to his friends and associate to work secretly for his anointed candidate, Mr. Dare Aliu but the party leaders and the Excos took sympathy and voted for me. I went into the election with less support from the government and I won.

In view of this, the governor and his appointees in government created problem for the party Excos in Akure North and South. The Excos in Akure North were dissolved and aggrieved party Excos went to court to challenge this illegality and factionalized the party. When this issue was going on, the party became so factionalised in the two local governments, I tried to discuss with the leadership of the party and Mr Governor. The crisis reached a pick when another faction of the party emerged from the state Exco of the party, one faction led by Ogidan as the State Chairman, the other led by Hon. Kunle Odidi also as the State Chairman. At this point, I had no choice than to rely on section 68 of the Nigeria Constitution and defect to another party so that I could concentrate to deliver the dividend of democracy to my constituents.

During the election to choose the Speaker, House of Representatives, you supported Tambuwal against the directive of Governor Olusegun Mimiko to vote Mrs. Adeola Akande, what informed this?

I was in the House of Representatives in 2003-2007 and was in the same Communication Committee with Hon. Aminu Tambuwal, we interacted and became friends, we were re-elected again in 2011 and we met. I took interest in his ambition because we had been together before. We started working and canvassing other members to vote for him. A day to the election, the governor invited all elected House of Representatives members from the state under the LP. At the meeting, he directed all of us to vote Hon. Adeola as Speaker without giving any reason other than that she was the choice of Mr. President. He did not allow individual views and opinions.

At that point, I became confused because I was already a committed caucus member of Tambuwal’s ambition.

As a Yoruba man, I made up my mind to go with my conscience which is to go and align myself with Tambuwal, so as not to be seen in that camp as a spy and betrayal. At the end I became the only lawmaker from Ondo State that v o t e d Tambuwal as Speaker. But with my action, the governor became angry with m e a n d s t a r t e d victimising my political allies in his government.

He dropped his two commissioners from Akure North and South whom I influenced t h e i r nomination in his cabinet.

H o n .

Omoniyi Omodara Commissioner for Transport

and Mr. Kunle Asaolu Commissioner for Urban Development. Not only that, he used police to seize the official car of Hon. Saka Yusuf, the Education Secretary of Akure North and forced him to resign his appointment. He directed others not to recognise my leadership in the party in Akure South and appointed a leader who is his bosom friend Soji Bello, who is an Ekiti man.

The situation led to heavy factionalisation of the party which led to my exit from the party. At a point I needed police protection because there was an attempt on my life, I went through hell.Voting Tambuwal and defying Mimiko’s order was not an easy step in my political life. However, I have no regret.

What would you consider as being the reason why you lost your case from the High Court up to the Supreme Court?

Looking at the case, you will see that the judgment was political and induced by politicians. Unfortunately some of our judges became so rich that they rely on political cases to become overnight billionaires. When I defected to the defunct ACN, the heat was too much and Mimiko was desperate to take any step to get me out of the NASS. He had gone to INEC to falsify the voters register so that he will recall me from the National Assembly. You know Mimiko, he can be funny. I went to court to exercise my right and he used that avenue and spent tax payers’ money to get me out.

Mimiko and his party are aware that I am on ground in this state and particularly in Akure the state capital, where I have won election twice to the national Assembly. I know I have paid a big sacrifice in seeking for a better change for this country and I am happy that the change has finally come. No sacrifice is too big to join hands with other patriotic citizen to affect that change, so no regret at all.

You were a governorship aspirant in ACN but at end, Mr. Rotimi Akeredolu, SAN was picked as the governorship candidate in 2012, how did you feel?

All of us that contested for the ticket are prominent citizens of the state and have the capability to govern the state very well if elected but we had earlier assured the leadership of the party that we would agree with their choice of candidate and work together. I knew that one person would be picked not two. When that moment to pick came and Rotimi Akeredolu was picked I had no difficulty in line with our agreement to align myself with the decision. I am a democrat and a team player. I had no choice than to start working for the party. No regret at all because I was not desperate (to become the candidate) and I will always respect the wishes of the leaders. So it was a welcome development.

You contested the APC primary for a senatorial seat and lost in a controversial manner, can you shed light on how it happened despite your popularity?

This is the sensitive area I don’t want to repeat and I have decided to put all the drama behind me. Let me tell you that I won that primary but I decided to let it go in order to achieve peace in the

party. I can’t be fighting two wars at the same time. I was already at the Supreme Court with Mimiko and at the same time contesting an issue with my party leadership.

How did you feel when your agent was barred from witnessing the recounting of your votes at the National party Secretariat of your party in Abuja?

My agent was not barred, to set the record straight, but I was not physically present during the recounting of vote neither did anybody represent me as agent. I was even at the premises of the Secretariat but I was not at the counting venue. I was not invited. However, as a loyal party man, I took the outcome of the recounting exercise in good faith. You are aware that I was the one that protested to the leadership that votes written on my second name was not counted. I was informed that I lost the election by seven votes because some people wrote my name and that of the winner in the same ballot paper.

However, some of my supporters advised that I should go to court to challenge the invalid votes through the use of scanning machine but I refused.

I can’t take the leadership of the party to court for what I am not so desperate about, and I told them I have been in the House of Representatives twice and I have won election and also lost election so losing the primary is not an end to my political life but a coma. Another reason is that I can’t be an obstacle that will derail the goal of the party. I quickly see the outcome of the primary as a price and I let it go.

The Supreme Court ordered that you to vacate your seat at the House of Representatives over your defection from LP to ACN few days after you lost your senatorial ticket in a controversial manner, how did you cope with this situation?

The judgment from the Supreme Court is political. Judgment was delivered

on March 22 and the judges reserved their reasons till April 17. My lawyers were in court to argue a motion already filed only for the justices to disallow their attempt to move the motion. They adjourned for few minutes and came back asking for lawyers to address the court after which they went for few minutes recess, came back and delivered judgment on the matter. I saw the scenario as a charade and already belated because an election to elect another person to that position has been slated for the same week by INEC. The judgment coming barely few days to the period I lost my senatorial ticket will be devastating not only to me as a person but my numerous supporters especially people that decamped with me from LP to ACN in 2012. Some of them looked worried because in their mind, they thought it was all over and that their sacrifices, investment and risk they took are not appreciated by our party. For me as a person, I am of the opinion that we must continue to give Mimiko a fight for his money and tricks. I did not allow these two events to discourage me so I quickly put it behind me. I have been active in the party after the judgment and that was the reason behind the success we recorded in Akure during the Presidential and National Assembly election where we recorded over 50,000 votes for our party.

During last year governorship election in Osun State, you went to Osun and mobilized support of Ondo indigenes for Aregbesola. What actually informed your action?

I was in Osun State to mobilise support for Ogbeni Aregbesola for his reelection. I visited the governor before the election and I told him that I want to assist him to mobilise and talk to Ondo State indigenes residing in the State of Osun to support him. He asked how I intend to go about it. I told him I have the plan that I just wanted to inform him. He directed me to liaise with one of his aides, Barrister Akano the deputy Chief of Staff. I met with Akano and I told

him my mission and that I was not ready to take a kobo from the government for my assignment. I went into action and I visited 30 local governments in the state, talking to people in different towns and villages on a daily basis for three weeks including Modakeke area council. I first put together a team with local government, state and ward excos in all the 30 local governments. The team was mainly Ondo state indigenes residing in Osun. I financed their weekly meetings and personally inaugurated these excos at all level.

They moved back to their various local governments and wards and began mobilization of other indigenes of the state residing in the state of Osun. This group is called Oranmiyan Sunshine Movement, (OSM). So we used this platform to achieve our aim of mobilising our people for the reelection of Ogbeni Aregbesola and we came for public adoption of the governor at an open arcade where the governor and his cabinet members were personally present.

Ogbeni Aregbesola was in Ondo State during our governorship election in 2012, he spent time, money and energy to effect a change not that he has personal grudge against Mimiko but he wanted Ondo State to collaborate with other South West States to achieve regional integration.

Unfortunately our party lost the election and Mimiko started boasting that he will deal with Aregbesola by supporting Omisore to unseat him. So I took the courage to invest in Ondo State indigenes living in Osun state and mobilise them to support Aregbesola despite the demands at home from our party members who are looking upon on us for little assistance.

Why Ajimobi broke second term jinx, by Alaafin’s aide

By Kunle Akinrinade

N

OT a few people thought the Royal Ambassador to the Alaafin of Oyo, Aare Ayandotun Ayanlakin, was spinning yarn in January 2014, when he predicted that Governor Abiola Ajimobi of Oyo State will be reelected.

The governor, according to the Oyo chief took his prediction with a pinch of salt during a visit to his office in Ibadan. The countenance of the governor rather than discourage Ayanlakin, emboldened him to call a press conference, where he again reiterated that Ajimobi would be returned as governor of the pacesetter state.

“Governor Ajimobi did not believe me when I told him that he would be returned as governor. Although, the governor did not utter a word when I told him that he would win the 2915 governorship election, but I noticed his reservations about my prediction in his countenance. I left his office that day and I immediately organized a press conference where I made it clear that Ajimobi will break the second term jinx. A lot of people queried my prediction but I stood my ground because I was so sure of Ajimobi’s victory. My prediction was published in several newspapers and I have been vindicated by the outcome of the governorship election.”

What then could have made Ayanlakin to be so sure that Ajimobi would break a jinx that has endured for decades since the creation of Oyo State? If you think that he consulted an oracle or seer about what would be the outcome of Oyo governorship election, how mistaken you are. Rather, his prediction was based on the unprecedented achievements of Oyo State government under Ajimobi’s watch.

Hear him: “I foretold Ajimobi’s victory without consulting any oracle or seer.

My prediction was based on the uncommon transformation of Oyo State in the last four years under Ajimobi’s administration. Since its creation, Oyo State has not witnessed massive infrastructural development and innovative projects that Ajimobi has inaugurated so far.

“The outstanding achievements of Ajimobi are the reasons why he has broken reelection jinx in the state. Ajimobi has done what others before him did not do. The achievements of his administration so far cannot be compared to that of any administration in the political history of the state. He has invested massively in infrastructural development, including the beautification of the environment; the construction of the Mokola flyover in Ibadan; building of roads; timely payment of worker’s salary as well as disbursement of N300 million loans to traders and artisans in the

state.”

“I predicted his reelection in January 2014 and I am happy that it has come to pass. He has established a harmonious relationship with the traditional institution in Oyo State in a way that has never been done before. It is to his credit that the Alaafin of Oyo, is now the permanent chairman of Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs. Ajimobi was divinely chosen as governor of the state and it was the reason the people of Oyo did not re-elect his predecessors for second term.”

He however urged Ajimobi to intensify his efforts in providing more social amenities for residents of the state and to tackle infrastructure decay in some sectors.

“Ajimobi should focus more on sectors such as education, health and the welfare of the aged. I also want him to fix bad roads and build low income housing estates, so that the masses can also afford to own houses. I expect him to continue to support traditional institutions in Oyo State and look after the wellbeing of monarchs in the state. I know that he has a good heart for people and he would justify his re-election which was made possible by his outstanding strides as governor during his first term in office.”

Ayanlakin warned those who have been parading themselves as Yoruba leaders and castigating the National Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, urging them to beg for forgiveness adding that Tinubu is the authentic Yoruba leader.

“I am saying it without any iota of doubt that Asiwaju Bola Tinubu is the only authentic Yoruba leader. Anyone confronting or contesting the leadership of the Yoruba race with him will continue to fail. All those who are parading themselves as Yoruba leaders and tackling Tinubu should beg for his forgiveness because God has created him to lead the people of Southwest. Therefore, anyone that attacks Tinubu is wasting his time because nothing would affect him. Tinubu is not only our leader in Yoruba land, but an undisputed political leader in Nigeria.”

Ajimobi has done what others before him did not do. The achievements of his administration so far cannot be compared to that of any administration in the political history of the state

Aare Ayandotun Ayanlakin

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22, 2015

34

SOUTHWEST REPORT

L

ESS than four months in the hospitality industry, De Xambdra International Hotel, Ado-Ekiti, the Ekiti State capital, is making waves and breaking new grounds in the sector.

The management of the hotel has launched a special security package for its customers in a bid to give them the best treatment they deserve.

The special security offer is already generating interest in the sector among residents and visitors who had enjoyed the offer.

The Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of Dexambdra International Hotel, Mr. Gbenga Bankole, said the package is a new innovation in hotel business in Nigeria which he said was to prove the fact that “customer is the king.”

Speaking with The Nation on the package, Bankole said security will be provided for guests to any part of the country at their request with full compliments of police escort and other privileges.

The hotel boss said the offer comes without any additional cost to the expenses of guests throughout the duration of their stay at Dexambdra.

He added that the security package has also been put in place for those holding parties in neighbouring towns within and outside Ekiti State.

Bankole said: “If anybody lodges here or uses our facilities, we provide a mini bus that can take you to your destination to and fro with police es-

cort.

“If they are lodging with us, we do this without any additional cost to lodging fees and we also provide entertainment for our guests.

“Apart from providing security for our guests within and outside the town, the security stays with them throughout to ensure their safety wherever they go.

“It is also a safe haven for politicians who want to have private meetings, those who are having big ceremonies like burials and anytime they are going back, they will do so with full police escort.

“This is an innovation in hospitality industry as far as Ekiti State is concerned and we are doing this because we believe we must give people within and outside Ekiti the very best.”

Bankole disclosed that Dexambdra’s presidential wing has been equipped to provide special services for families and individuals to give them “home away from home.”

He said: “The presidential wing is a secure, highly private for families or individuals that want to travel away from home and still enjoy the facilities of home.

“At our presidential wing, there is a private swimming pool, bar and a club house for only people lodging there.

“We also have special services for bachelor’s eve, spinsters’ night, honeymoon and those who want to hold special conferences, meetings, semi-

Hotel’s special security arrangement excites Ekiti residents Odunayo Ogunmola, Ado-Ekiti

nars and retreats.”

Bankole revealed that a leading financial institution in the country re-

cently lodged 300 of its staff at the hotel for training because of the special services on offer.

He said the hotel was his private contribution to the economic devel-

opment of his hometown, Ado-Ekiti in particular and the state in general having spent about 25 years overseas.

Bankole said he would always contribute his quota to assist the gov-

Honour for real ambassadors of Lagos

M

ANY jaws often drop in utter awe at the sight, especially during the monthly environmental sanitation being observed across Lagos State. Armed with broom and shovel, at his age, the first Executive Governor of the state, Alhaji Lateef Jakande, would totter through the streets in his Ilupeju neighbourhood, in observance of the exercise.

He is usually joined by other eminent landlords that constitute the Ilupeju Estate Residents Development Association, including a former Military governor in the state, Gen. Mobolaji Johnson (rtd).

Observers could only appreciate their effort to sustain the glory of Lagos of old with one refrain – a prayer: “May God reward these good people in heaven!”

Such men and women of exemplary patriotism are in every nook and cranny of the metropolis doing great things for the society through sheer sacrifice. In the same vein, quite many corporate organisations have done what First Bank Plc did to arrest the progressive decay of the popular Costain Roundabout, years ago. It has since remained a beauty to behold.

Are you among or do you know the individuals, public service and corporate organisations that have been toiling exceptionally to restore, protect and share those sacred values that made Lagos great? Now is the time to reap the fruits of such efforts.

By Dada Aladelokun

The opportunity will come on May 27, when the Spirit of Lagos (SOL), a behavioural transformation initiative, holds a unique awards ceremony to celebrate individual and corporate citizens who have evinced rare selfless civic acts to effect positive change in Lagos.

SOL’s Project Director, Mr Olaniyi Omotoso, blew the lid of the plans of the organisation at a media briefing in Ikeja, where he said the ceremony, tagged Citizens’ Day, “is part of ongoing activities of our group to encourage residents to restore, protect and share those values that made Lagos a great city.”

Omotoso said the three-category ceremony – individual, public service and corporate organizations – would be chaired by the state governor, Mr. Babatunde Fashola at the grand event commemorating the 48th year of the creation of the state.

The individual category includes Lifetime Achievement Award – for an elderly citizen, living or dead, who has impacted positively on the state; Award for Community Development – for a citizen who has impacted positively on his/her community; Award for Exceptional Community – for a community that has done exceptional things through collaborative efforts; and Award for Exceptional Youth– for a young resident between the ages of 18 and 25, with a strong commitment to societal good, he explained.

The Public Service categories ac-

•L-R: Omotoso, Mrs Fasehun, Mrs Shasore; Ronke Daniels, and Nwosu, at the briefing

cording to Omotoso, cover Lifetime Achievement Award, Role Model Award and Rising Star Award, and will reward employees of the Lagos State civil service who have demonstrated dedicated and excellent performances in the discharge of their duties.

The corporate organisations category, he said, would recognise and honour socially responsible corporate bodies – multinationals, emerging corporate bodies and small and medium scale enterprises – that have, in very tangible ways, given back to the society in which they operate.

“The award is to inspire and acknowledge good behaviour as well as engender and sustain attitudinal change among Lagos residents. The search for these exceptional citizens and organisations will extend to all

the 57 Local Government Areas (LGAs) and Development Areas (LCDAs) in the state. It will give the grassroots residents the opportunity to identify and nominate those who they feel are worthy of the awards in their localities,” the SOL Project Director said.

Omotoso disclosed that nomination forms had been deposited at all the secretariats of the LGs/LCDAs for easy collection by residents.

A panel of judges comprising eminent men and women of impeccable character in the society, he added, would screen and shortlist the prospective nominees who will subsequently go through a voting process by the public to eventually determine the worthy awardees.

Mrs Folasade Fasehun, Director, Development Partnership Depart-

ment, Ministry of Economic Planning & Budget, lauded the initiative, noting that it will go a long way in complementing the efforts of the state government at ensuring the rebirth of a new Lagos of residents’ collective dream.

Also, Mrs Oyinkan Badejo-Okusanya, General Counsel to Fashola; Shola Shasore, Office of Public Private Partnership; Ronke Daniels, Spokesperson, Akoka Community Development Association (CDA), and Kelechi Nwosu, Managing Director, TBWA Concepts, were at the briefing.

They observed that SOL activities are complementary to the state government’s environmental efforts and enjoined all stakeholders to play their respective part to ensure the success of the ceremony and to ultimately achieve its goals.

I kept Folarin’s transformer to avoid chaos, says Seriki Hausawa

F

OLLLOWING the controversy trailing the transformer donated to the Hausa Community in Oyo state by the Candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the just concluded governorship election in the State, Senator Teslim Folarin, the Seriki Hausawa of Ibadanland Alhaji Dahiru Ahmed Zungeru has said the transformer was kept to avoid crisis.

He said Folarin did not know anything about the whereabouts of the transformer urging people to

From Jeremiah Oke, Ibadan

desist from politics of bitterness.

The leader of Hausa community who spoke with journalists at his Sabo palace in Ibadan said he deliberately ordered his boys to take the transformer to unknown destination when some agrieved members of the community wanted to set the transformer ablaze.

According to him, he ordered the arrest of a member of the Hausa Community by Oyo State Police Command in connection with theft of the said transformer.

He said; “It is true that Folarin donated a transformer to us here in Sabo for the use of the whole community. After the general election on Monday, I saw some people gathered in the front of the palace saying in Hausa language that they didn’t want something. When I try to find out what was going on I discovered it was the transformer they were talking about when I investigated among the people they told me some people had taken the Folarin’s transformer away before that day.

“When I asked who were the people who took it away, they mentioned one Alhaji Basiru and I took it up as the leader of the Hausas in the community. That was when I knew it was not Folarin who ordered for the removal of transformer.

“I have known Folarin for the past 30years and I know he cannot do such a thing. We knew each other even before I became the Seriki Hausawa of Ibadan Land. I knew him through Baba Adedibu. I could have accepted the transformer but I wanted my people to go back to their respective

houses and that was why I said they should take it back when the alleged man returned the transformer.

“If I didn’t do so, I trust my people, they can burn the transformer, so, I ordered my boys to take it to unknown destination.

For me to be sure, I spoke with Folarin on phone and he said he did not know anything about it.

“When Folarin said he didn’t know about it, I invited the DCO and DPO of Mokola Police station to investigate the issue and bring the culprit to book.

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22, 2015

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SOUTHWEST REPORT

Group photogeaph of participants at a Workshop on Male Involvement In Sexual And Reproductive Health Project organized by the State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development in collaboration with UNFPA for 30 Community Volunteers from ten (10) communities of Ipokia, Yewa South and North Local Government Areas of the State.

ernment in providing employment for teeming youths and carry out corporate social responsibility services for the community, residents and indigenes.

Old Students Alliance-Badagry congratulates Ambode, deputy

T

HE Old Students AllianceBadagry (OSAB), has urged the Governor-elect of Lagos State, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode and his deputy, Dr Oluranti Idiat Adebule to hit the ground running once they take office on May 29, 2015.

In a congratulatory message to the incoming Lagos Chief Executive, his deputy and all the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidates from Badagry area that were victorious in the March 28 and April 11 elections, OSAB enjoined Ambode to immediately immense himself and his team in the arduous tasks ahead to sustain the enviable height of the centre of excellence as the state of reference in the country.

The congratulatory message signed by president Mr Felix Sadare and the general secretary Otunba Yomi Olomofe, drew the attention of the successful party candidates to the extremely high expectations of the people of Lagos in particular, and Nigerians generally in the areas of infrastructure developments, quality and affordable health care delivery, provision of quality and affordable housing schemes across the state, continuous employment generation, security of lives and property of Lagosians, etc.

“We wish to place on record our unwavering confidence in the calibre and competence of our Governor-elect Mr Akinwumi Ambode, his deputy, Dr Oluranti Adebule, and indeed, the candidates representing Badagry at the federal and state legislative chambers. These are people of exceptional personal and professional endowments, who have made invaluable contributions over time, to the growth of Lagos state. We therefore envisage a seamless transition and subsequent elevation of the state to higher levels of excellence”. The alliance said.

•Ambode

UN agency, ministry of women affairs task men on safe delivery H

ITHERTO, the battle to arrest child - maternal death during pregnancy or in the labour room has been largely centred on educating the expectant mothers on the propriety of always seeking expert attention throughout the period of pregnancy and after delivery.

But in Ogun State, the frontier has been expanded to include the men folks. This is predicated on the discovery that despite the availability of orthodox healthcare service, a good number of pregnant women still patronize traditional birth attendants with the tacit or open support of their husbands, and unmindful of the risk to expectant mothers and unborn babies.

Last week, the state’s Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development in collaboration with the United Nations Population Agency (UNFPA), trained no fewer than 30 persons on how to instigate positive behavioural change in men towards motivating and encouraging expectant mothers to seek help from healthcare centres and stop risking their lives with unsafe birth practices.

The 30 trainees who are called community volunteers, were drawn from 10 communities in three of the 20 Local Government Areas of Ogun state - Ipokia, Yewa South and Yewa North.

Ernest Nwokolo, Abeokuta

State Programme Officer, United Nations Population Agency (UNFPA), Mrs Damilola Obinna, said the training is part of efforts to increase male involvement in the sexual and reproductive health of their wives.

Mrs Obinna added that the men husbands, henceforth are expected to lend more helping hands to their spouses before, during and after child birth.

She advised that married men and women in the state should always make the best use of modern family planning techniques available, and avoid self-medication and unwholesome traditional healthcare practices that could hamper their health and socio-economic development.

According to her, the three day training on “Male Involvement In Sexual And Reproductive Health” of Women followed the outcome of a recent National Demographic Health Study (NDHS) carried out in 2013 and whose report was released in 2014.

The report, she said, indicated that most maternal health indicators had marginal improvement with a nonsignificant increase in national mater-

nal mortality rate from 545 deaths per 100,000 births to 576 deaths per 100,000 live births.

She noted that the situation was common to all the 36 states of the country, including Ogun, hence the reason the training was targeted at male family heads and relatives to expose them to dialogue, information sharing and raising of awareness ostensibly to promote role modeling for men.

According to the UNFA programme officer, men should be seen as “protectors and promoters of rights of women and young girls.”

Mrs Obinna said: “studies have shown that a lot of pregnant women do not visit ante-natal clinics and do not give birth at health facilities within their localities. This has a lot of negative health consequence.

“We need the support of all family members, especially husbands to be involved in ensuring that their wives visit ante-natal clinics regularly, ensure that they are being attended to by skilled birth attendants , they should deliver at the clinics for the well-being and development of the home.”

Also, the Director of Child Development in the Women Affairs Ministry, Alhaja Salmot Otun, told the

participants that they are expected by virtue of the training, to be change agents in the way men and women perceive each other on their respective rights, roles and responsibilities in their localities.

Otun emphasized that the overall interest is to contribute towards reducing maternal mortality in the state by encouraging access and utilization of Skilled Birth Attendants and Family Planning commodities and services across the 20 Local Government Areas of the State.

A participant, Mr Owolabi Adedayo from Yewa South Local Government Area, lauded the training, saying it was an eye-opener to what Gender, Sex and Gender Roles were all about.

Adedayo, who is a religious leader, pledged to pass the knowledge gained to women and men in Owode - Yewa community.

For Mr. Ahmed Taiwo from Igan Okoto in Yewa North Local Government Area, the training had exposed him to the immense benefits of rendering moral, physical and psychosocial support to wives before, during and after pregnancy.

Taiwo urged the organiser to replicate the programmes in all the 20 Local Council Areas of the State.

Arewa chieftain applauds Aregbesola From Tayo Johnson, Ibadan

T

HE leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) members among the Arewa Community in the South West, Alhaji Hassan Isiaka has applauded Osun State Governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola over the victory of the party in the zone in the just-concluded general elections.

In astatement made available to journalists in Ibadan on Monday, the Arewa leader acknowledged “the singular efforts of the APC Presidential Campaign team in the South West, headed by Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola which did wonderfully well in the zone.

“Aregbesola as a reliable team leader is an enigma when it comes to the management of human and material resources as put into practice at the APC campaigns that resulted in grand success at the polls, not only in the South West but all over the nation,” he stated.

Alhaji Isiaka specifically acknowledged “Ogbeni Aregbesola’s efforts in judiciously managing the scarce resources available from the Buhari Campaign Organisation at a time when the opposition had laid siege on the nooks and crannies of the zone with ‘Ghana must Go’, in their erroneous belief that the voters could be grabbed with money.”

•L-R: Most Snr. Apostle Sunday Adebanjo (New York); Special Apostle Gabriel Kassim, Chairman, Cherubim & Seraphim Movement Church, New York District and Special Apostle Kunle Alonge, Special Adviser to Baba Aladura C & S Movement Church World Wide during the burial ceremony of Special Apostle Prophet G. O. Fakeye in Imesi-Ile.

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22, 2015

36

SOUTHWEST REPORT

‘We want to make Southwest Nigeria preferred destination for tourism and investment’ Two years after the Development Agenda for Western Nigeria (DAWN) Commission was established as a response to yearnings for and an ambition to foster development of Southwest Nigeria, its Director General, Mr Dipo Famakinwa, spoke with BISI OLADELE on the journey so far.

T

HE DAWN Commission was established to harmonize socio-economic potentials for regional prosperity. Do you think the commission has justified its establishment?

Certainly, the Southwest region will always look for the opportunity to move forward, that is who we are. Since 2013 when the commission was set up, we have tried to create an institutional framework around those ambitions which are very clear. We want the best for ourselves as far as education is concerned, healthcare and some of the best infrastructure in the world to be in our region. We want to ensure that our region is attractive for investment, to ensure that we have engaged people and citizenry, people who understand what development is about and ready to make their own contributions too. We want our cities to become more optimal and our economy to become more competitive. This is clearly our region’s ambition and I do not see anyone who will disagree with it.Our own is to build an institutional framework and ensure that those ambitions are realized. And how have we done that? First is to realize the fact that the states hitherto used to think as an individual state. But we needed to create a collaborative work whereby the states begin to have engagement and interaction among themselves, begin to see what they can copy from one another, what they can also learn from one another, and begin to identify the common challenges and create common solutions along that common challenges, identify the common problems and see how they can build a collaborative framework around that common problem. So, those are the things we have been doing.

Beyond that we have also recognised the fact that if you want to move forward you have to create strategic plans of actions. The commission, for instance, has helped in creating a regional plan of action for economic competitiveness, in general planning, for security law and order. It is the regional line of action for the creative economy which we consider to be a very critical component of our developmental progress, the regional plan of action for the development of tourism and so many areas where we have tried to create strategic line of action. Out of what we have done also is to ensure that we recognize the civil service as a critical development institution along the line with the ambitions earlier mentioned. The seventh summit of the heads of service held in Lagos around February was a very successful one. Part of the resolutions of the summit is that we need to begin to see how we can create a regional framework for building the capability of our civil service. We have a lot to look back to. So, clearly talking about the civil service, there were talks on how we can try to create a better civil service. So, those are the kinds of things going on and we are proud to say we have been a very good facilitator in ensuring that those things happen.

In the order of priority what three major challenges will you say the commission has faced?

In order of priority, one, is to keep what is working, in the areas where we are doing well. One needs to ensure that we have sustainability in those areas. Second, is to look for areas where there could be immediate possibility of regional actions. If you want me to be specific and mention the sectors, I will say we need to take education very seriously. It is not yet producing what I will call learning and character.

We need a lot of impact on our social character, we need to do a lot more on education. We also need to do a lot more on agriculture. Agriculture gives us a lot of opportunities to take people out of poverty and we have the latent capabilities here, so we need to sweat those capabilities. It is also important for us to look at our communities and see how they will become more optimal, both the rural and urban. So, in areas of priority, those are the areas we are looking at. But if you want me to go beyond that, I will mention the issue of security.

That is very critical. A secure region will enable us attract investors, a secure region will also enable the people in the region to be able to pursue their daily economic and social activities without fear. Security, law and order are also important to us. Of course, we have to build our institutions to enable them deliver on their mission, both our economic and governance institutions. So, those are the areas we consider to be very important, even though there are so many other

areas we are working on.

For two years now, there must be challenges that have slowed down the pace at which the commission is supposed to move, Could you please share them?

One of the challenges we have is the political environment. There are lots of activities in the political environment that if we are not careful, will impede our development progress. We need to manage our political environment to achieve anything. The Nigerian environment is highly politicized. You find a lot of a things that should not have political or partisan consideration suffering that fate. We need to ensure that the political environment enables development. Again, in the Southwest, especially when you are working with governments that do not belong to the same political party, creating conversations can be a little bit more difficult. But, we have not allowed that to affect what we are doing. In cases where there are occasions for us to move together on certain actions, that is what has been the big issue for us. For example, all

The Nigerian environment is highly politicised.

You find a lot of things that should not have political or partisan consideration suffering that fate. We need to ensure that the political environment enables development.

the states have participated in all the actions we have taken on development and cultural tourisms in the region. All the states have participated in the civil service summit. This has held twice. In agriculture, we had a meeting with the Federal Ministry of Agriculture last year to present ourselves as a regional block, all the states participated in the conversations and the actions that followed. What we tried to do is to not only create conversations, but also dialogues and then we build collaborative actions from the issues that arise from the deliberations. We do not just leave it at the level of discussions, we make sure that we follow them to the level of being put on the table. Also for instance, there was a game competition organized for secondary schools in the region, all the states participated, especially in the discussion that led to the hosting of the games in Lagos. Quite a number of those issues have happened, but of course we will expect that the political environment enables development more than it currently does.

Funding is also an issue, we are not able to get the required level of funding that we need. So, it is a long way battle for us to win because the legitimate sources of funding are the government. If our states are bleeding, then it will be difficult for us to have the sustainable level of funding that we require. That is an issue for us. Though we are also working on a lot of strategy to create sustainability for ourselves, in which case we can look at alternative sources of funding. Part of the challenge we have is that our people also are disengaged from the development projects.

We need to take the development to them. The masses are too busy trying to survive. The middle class people are trying to consolidate, not to drop lower. Everyone is busy. So, we need to ensure that everyone comes on board for the development project, we need to take it to them. How we are doing that is to create levels of consultations across stakeholders, we cannot succeed without the people behind us.

How are you taking the gospel of the DAWN commission to the common man in the region?

Like our people say, we need a lot of money to reach out to all stakeholders but we are not relenting.

We use every opportunity that we have, especially regional programs and meetings, to take advantage of what the states are doing. We take advantage of the Ministry of Information to get our message to the people. We can do more, this is one of the reasons why I am talking to you. We need all the help that we can get. We are communicating this to our people. One of the programs we have in view, is “Pagede Agbajo Owo”, which is a grassroots oriented program where we intend to bring all our people across the region, especially grassroots people, and have an ongoing engagement on the development agenda of the Western Nigeria. We expect to do it now that the election is over. Hopefully, from that, we will have more successes to ensure that what we are doing gets to the grassroots.

How open is your door to every Yoruba son and daughter that has something to contribute to the development of the Famakinwa region?

O u r doors are o p e n n o t only t o

Yoruba people but to anyone who can help us. The vision of the development agenda is to make the Southwest part of Nigeria the preferred destination for people in Africa to visit, work, live and invest.

We want an enabling environment for everybody whether you are a Yoruba man or not, as long as you have anything meaningful to contribute to our region, you are part of the development project. Yoruba land cannot be for Yoruba people alone. By nature, we are very accommodating; our environment is attractive to different people in the world, not only Nigerians. Clearly for us, is to see how we can create an environment that makes contributions. Our doors are open to everyone. If we can speak to the Japanese to come and invest in our region, it means we are open to everybody.

We are also asking the Americans to come. Clearly, we cannot have a region that is exclusive to Yoruba people.

We also want to build communities. There are strategic points where we need to get more traction behind what we are doing. For instance, we want to build a young agropreneurs community in the West. We have recognized the fact that young people are abandoning agriculture but we have seen some success stories in terms of young people involved in agriculture and they are doing well in it. Some of our states have interesting programs for some of our young people in agriculture. I know about the WICARD in Ekiti State and the young agropreneurs in Lagos which is situated in Epe. I know about the one in Ore, and also know Oyo State has one. So, we want to create a regional young agropreneurs community.

We also want to create a community for the creative industry, Southwest creative community.

We are looking at a community generating a lot of start-up business, that is, a start-up business community. We are also considering private sector communities.

Part of our plan is to see how we can build communities around these strategic points of our society where development is happening.

Part of what we want to do is to engage the policy environment development. And like I said earlier, unless the political environment is better, we cannot do much. Part of our program is to engage more in the policy environment in terms of influencing policies, ensuring that the policy environment is networked all across the region and nothing is missing as far as the policy environment is concerned.

We also want to promote policy commissions. We believe that in the states in the region there should be some level of interaction going on.

For instance, we want a policy commission between Lagos and Ogun, Oyo and Osun, and Ekiti and Ondo.

So, if we have those policy commissions we will provide them opportunities of looking at things they should be doing together, even between themselves. For example, Lagos and Ogun can look at some infrastructure programs. The policy commissions are expected to facilitate interactions between these states. We are not just trying to do them, converstaions have started towards ensuring that these things can happen. They must happen at the right time. For instance, we have finished the regional competitiveness strategy document.

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22, 2015

37

THE NATION INVESTORS

Sterling Bank records N4b profit in first quarter S

TERLING Bank Plc maintained stable growths in its earnings in the first quarter with 10 per cent and 24.7 per cent growth in gross earnings and profit after tax respectively.

Key extracts of the unaudited report and accounts of Sterling Bank for the three-month period ended March 31, 2015 showed that profit after tax rose by 24.7 per cent from N3.1 billion in first quarter 2014 to N3.9 billion in first quarter 2015. Profit before tax had risen by 14.1 per cent from N3.5 billion to N4.0 billion.

Gross earnings increased to N27.23 billion in 2015 as against N24.71 billion recorded in comparable period of 2014. Non-interest income grew by 31.9 per cent from N6.1 billion to N8.0 billion, driven by a 51 per cent growth in fees and commission, which rose to N5 billion. Net operating income inched up by 6.1 per cent from N15.3 billion to N16.2 billion on the back of a growth in non-interest income and a 10.4 per cent reduction in impair-

Stories by Taofik Salako Capital Market Editor

ment charges.

Also, net loans and advances also increased by 5.7 per cent from N371.2 billion to N392.4 billion. Shareholders’ funds increased marginally by 4.3 per cent from N84.7 billion to N88.4 billion due to profit accretion, while total assets excluding contingent liabilities advanced by 2.1 per cent from N824.5 billion to N841.9 billion.

Managing director, Sterling Bank Plc, Yemi Adeola, said the bank’s first quarter performance was in line with expectations noting that loan growth was impacted by its deliberate selective approach to asset creation.

According to him, the bank recorded a marginal increase in operating expenses, which was slower than the growth in net operating income resulting in a 14 per cent improvement in profit before tax. Overall, the bank achieved a 19 per cent annualized pretax return on average equity.

“During the period, we achieved a return on average assets of two per cent by prioritizing efficiency in the management of our balance sheet in response to a difficult operating environment. Loan growth will remain steady and disciplined. We are very optimistic that our earnings growth momentum will be sustained in the remaining quarters of the year,” Adeola said.

Sterling Bank had sustained resilient performance in 2014 as top-line and bottom-line earnings showed considerable growths with gross earnings rising by some 13 per cent to N103.7 billion. In the same breadth, profit before tax rose by 15.4 per cent to N10.7 billion.

Key extracts of the audited report and accounts of the Bank for the year ended December 31, 2014 showed appreciable growths in all key performance indices, sustaining the strong performance outlook of the lender in spite of industry-wide

headwinds.

Major highlights showed that net interest income leapt by 20.1 per cent to N43.0 billion in 2014 as against N35.8 billion recorded in 2013. This was driven mainly by 11.4 per cent growth in interest income to N77.9 billion, which far outweighed the 2.2 per cent increase in funding costs to N34.9 billion. This underlined the increasing cost efficiency of the lender as cost of funds had dropped from 6.1 per cent in 2013 to 5.3 percent in 2014. Similarly, non-interest income grew by 18.3 per cent from N21.8 billion in 2013 to N25.7 billion in 2014. This was boosted by 82.2 per cent growth in net trading income to N6.8 billion.

The bank continued to strengthen its mid and bottom-line performances as its increasing focus on cost reduction, credit risks management and operating efficiency cushioned macro headwinds and retained values for shareholders. Net operating income rode on the back of growth in net interest income and a 10.5 per cent re-

duction in impairment charges to N61.4 billion in 2014, an increase of 24.4 per cent on N49.3 billion recorded in 2013. Meanwhile, operating expenses increased by 26.5 per cent to N50.6 billion in 2014 as against N40 billion in 2013. This was due mainly to on-going investments in branch refits and expansion and rollout of alternative channels as well as regulation-induced cost.

Consequently, profit before tax inched up by 15.4 per cent to N10.7 billion while profit after tax increased by 8.8 per cent to N9 billion. The net profit was impacted by 68.4 per cent increase in income tax expense.

The bank’s balance sheet also emerged stronger. Net loans and advances increased by 15.4 per cent to N371.2 billion in 2014 compared with N321.7 billion in 2013. Customer deposits rose by 15 per cent to N655.9 billion as against N570.5 billion while shareholders’ funds increased by 33.5 per cent from N63.5 billion to N84.7 billion. Total assets closed 2014 at N824.5 billion, representing an increase of 16.5 per cent on N707.8 billion recorded in 2013.

SEC’ Gwarzo presents three month scorecard today

A

• NIS computer based test in Abuja.

Zenith Bank records N33b profit in three months

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ENITH Bank Plc started this year on a good footing with consid erable growths in overall earnings and profitability, according to the latest earnings report of the bank.

Interim report and accounts of Zenith Bank for the first quarter ended March 31, 2015 indicated that while gross earnings grew by 14 per cent, pre and post tax profits rose by 15 per cent and 17 per cent respectively. Earnings per share thus improved to 88 kobo within the three months, in contrast with 75 kobo recorded in corresponding period of 2014.

Gross earnings rose to N113.32 billion by March 2015 compared with N94.32 billion by March 2014. Interest income for the period rose to N81 billion compared with N71 billion posted in the similar period of 2014 translating to 14 per cent increase. Similarly, non-interest income appreciated by 39.5 per cent N31.9 billion up from N22.9 billion in 2014.

Operating income rose to N72 billion as against N66 billion in the similar period of 2014 translating to 9 per cent growth while operating expenses of N39 billion was recorded amounting to 4.8 per cent increase from N37.6 billion reported in the corresponding period of 2014.Profit before tax also rose from N28.92 billion to N33.13 billion while profit after tax increased from N23.68 billion to N27.68 billion.

Total assets rose to N3.94 trillion in first quarter 2015 compared with N3.19

trillion recorded in comparable period of 2014. Gross loans and advances rose to N1.9 trillion, implying 9.9 per cent appreciation when compared with N1.7 trillion posted in the similar period of 2014. Similarly, customers’ deposit and total assets increased by 5.7 per cent and 4.9 per cent to N2.6 trillion and N3.9 trillion respectively during the period.

The latest earnings report is broadly in line with the performance of the bank in the previous financial year. The board of Zenith Bank has earmarked N54.94 billion as cash dividends to shareholders for the immediate past business year ended December 31, 2014. Shareholders will receive a dividend per share of N1.75, the same rate paid for the 2013 business year.

The audited report and accounts for the 2014 business year showed that Zenith Bank recorded gross earnings of N403.34 billion in 2014, 14.8 per cent above N351.47 billion. Profit before tax rose by 8.3 per cent from N110.6 billion in 2013 to N119.8 billion in 2014.

After taxes, net profit rose by 4.3 per cent to N99.46 billion in 2014 compared with N95.32 billion in 2013. Earnings per share thus stood at N3.16 in 2014 as against N3.01 in 2013.

Zenith Bank continued to show impressive credit risk management and loan efficiency as the proportion of non-performing loans to gross loans and advances dropped from 3.0 per cent in 2013 to 1.8 per cent in 2104. Share-

holders’ funds also increased by 8.5 per cent from N509.25 billion in 2013 to N552.64 billion in 2014.

Analysts at FBN Capital said the performance in the first quarter was positive, implying likely increase in their forecast on the bank. Analysts noted that the net profit growth was faster than profit before tax growth of 15 per cent because of a significant positive result of N1.1 billion on the other comprehensive income line.

Group managing director, Zenith Bank, Mr. Peter Amangbo, has assured stakeholders of a prosperous 2015 financial year.

“The year 2015 has high prospects of increased economic growth and development, following the successful conduct of general elections in the country. This scenario will present the group with ample opportunity to grow its clientele and business volume in Nigeria while consolidating on its gains from foreign subsidiaries,” Amangbo told Bloomberg.

Commenting on the financial, he stated that with the growth in gross earnings to N133 billion in the first quarter of 2015, the bank has demonstrated its leadership position within the Nigerian banking landscape noting that in spite of the headwinds faced by the Nigerian banking industry the bank grew its profit before tax by 14.6 per cent to N33 billion during the period.

According to him, the group’s focus

on creation of well-priced high-quality assets is evident in the growth of loans and advances by 44.6 per cent with a moderate cost of risk of 0.5 per cent and non-performing loan ratio of 1.7 per cent.

“The growth in risk assets was effectively matched by a corresponding increase in competitively priced deposits with a view to maximizing net interest margin. With a loan-to-deposit ratio of 67.3 per cent, Basel II capital adequacy ratio of 18.82 per cent and liquidity ratio of 44.4 per cent, Zenith group is well positioned to explore business opportunities in strategic sectors of the economy,” Amangbo said.

Chief financial officer, Zenith Bank, Mr. Stanley Amuchie, noted that the results emanated from group’s continued effort in diversifying its revenue base. He stated that the effort yielded result as its non-interest revenue grew by 39.5 per cent over the prior period.

According to him, the group maintained a relatively high net-interest margin despite the increased cost of funds during the quarter, stressing that this was achieved through efficient pricing of its risk assets and continued mobilization of low-priced deposits.

“The group is committed to keeping its cost-to-income ratio under control, cost-to-income reduced from 56.5 per cent to 54.29 per cent between March 2014 and March 2015, while utilising its assets more effectively,” Amuchie said.

CTING director general of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Mr. Mounir Gwarzo, will present the highlights of its stewardship to all major stakeholders in the Nigerian capital today.

Formerly executive commissioner, operations, Gwarzo took over as the acting director general of the apex capital market regulator on Monday January 12, 2015. He succeeded Ms Arunma Oteh, who completed her five-year tenure on Wednesday January 7, 2015.

Gwarzo is expected to make a special presentation and overview of recent activities at the Commission to the first quarter meeting of the Capital Market Committee (CMC), scheduled for today in Lagos. Besides, the meeting is expected to review market performance, reports of some sub-committees, recent initiatives and take inputs from members on the strategic initiatives needed to further enhance the market, especially in the light of the election of a new government.

Expected at the are chief executive officers of all registered capital market firms including broker dealer, capital market solicitors, custodians, fund managers, issuing houses, rating agencies, registrars, reporting accountants, trustees and consultants.

Also, chief executive officers of self regulatory organisations (SROs) including Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), Nigeria Commodity Exchange (NCX), Afex, Central Securities Clearing System (CSCS), FMDQ, NASD and Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers (CIS) are expected to be part of the meeting.

Also in attendance will be one member each from observer groups including Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON), Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), Debt Management Office (DMO), Federal Ministry of Finance, Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria, Federal Inland Revenue Service, Nigerian Deposit Insurance Corporation, Investment and Securities Tribunal, Nigerian Investment Promotion Council, National Insurance Commission, National Pension Commission and the Financial Services Regulation Coordinating Committee (FSRCC).

The chairmen of the Senate and House Committees on capital market are also expected at the meeting.

9

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, APRIL22, 2015

38

SMALL BUSINESS AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP

Essiet_daniel@yahoo.com 08180714151

The high demand for human hair and finding a cure for damaged bleached skin are creating big business for young entrepreneurs. DANIEL ESSIET reports.

IT graduate finds solution to damaged, bleached skin A

T a time when many of her contemporaries are making money selling dangerous skin-bleaching formulas, Adenike Erinkitola, a young IT graduate of Lead City University, Ibadan, Oyo State, is promoting products, which emphasise the beauty of the black skin And while graduates like her still roam the streets searching for employment, she is making a fortune selling and marketing human hair and skin restorative products for damaged skins arising from bleaching. She started last year.

With her savings and family support, she was able to raise N13,000, which helped her to make her first importation of human hair. Exploring her skill in online search, she discovered suppliers in China and Brazil, selling human hair at good prices, which further increased her

profitt margin.

But the margin was not much because a of the very small volume she was importing. Erinkitola gradually started building loyal customers made up of ladies, who wanted human hair to make extensions, braids, custom wigs and hair pieces. The other group are women with short, kinky, curly hair, who wanted long and straight locks.

With this increasing demand came an expanding market, which brought about competition, especially from bigger companies with huge financial muscles to prosecute importation of the products directly from Asian vendors.

Erinkitola, aware of the changing dynamics of the hair business and the potential danger it poses to her income, immediately

thought out of the box. She realised that a lot of women were suffering from damaged skins. She was later to trace the cause of this to be mostly from the use of skin beauty and bleaching products.

After some interactions with a number of ladies suffering from damaged skins arisng from their exposure to bleaching creams, Erinkitola subsequently realised that such ladies were in need of help to reverse the situation, which has now become a social problem.

Smart and intelligent, Erinkitola saw an opportuity to make good revenue from this scourge. But first, she realised there was a need for her to be equipped for this venture if only she was to make an impact.

In a way, this discovery changed the course of her life and career.

And in her drive to find a solution that will not be expensive. This prompted her to enroll for a train-

ing in body cream mixing.

Consequently, she began a skin treatment business directed at not only women with damaged skins, but at those seeking or desirous of keeping their skins in top condition. And with just N7,000 capital investment in 2014, she has grown the business to worth in excess of N150, 000. As a way of making more money, she trains people on how to make body and facial cream. Though still operating a micro enterprise, her dream is to own her skincare line.

Although she claims it has been a lucrative business, the challenge, however, is enough money to expand it to what she wants.

For now, beauty is the central focus of her business. Her goal is to deliver a must-have line of products that will have healing effects on those with damaged skins. In an economic climate that’s slowly

•Erinkitola

creeping towards recovery, it’s fascinating to see how small businesses prosper. Combining a lean business model and savvy business sense, Miss Erinkitola is learning how to succeed during recession and how to be truly self employed.

Despite challenges faced by entrepreneurs, producers of herbal products are developing strong businesses that are benefitting the economy, DANIEL ESSIET reports.

From banking to herbal cosmetologist

M

IKAIL Jimoh, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Jim Products, as an entrepreneur, started very small. And through sheer hard work and perseverance he has made it to the top. He runs one of the most successful herbal cosmetics and household products in Lagos.

But he did not start as a health entrepreneur. He began as a banker after graduating in banking and finance from the University of Lagos (UNILAG) in 1991. After his National Youth Service Corp (NYSC) service, he had a stint with Nichebel Merchant Bank where he earned over N25,000 per month. Being a banker with all the perks that go with the job, Jimoh could be said to be comfortably engaged. That notwithstanding, he resigned in 2004 to manufacture a range of herbal products that earned him Products of the Year 2014 Award by the Association of Micro Entrepreneurs of Nigeria (AMEN).

His flagship product, after he started, he told The Nation, was Jim Aloe Vera Dental Powder. He called it his cash cow. He has 30 other products, all registered with the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), including Jim Herbal Toothpaste, Jim Herbal Skincare Soap, and cream.

His idea for natural cosmetics with healing properties came from his father, who is a herbalist, had shown him how to use herbs to treat ailments.

Jimoh said he has herbal practice in his lineage, which he integrated into cosmetics production.

He acknowledged that he is not a chemist or scientist; he only acquired the technical know-how and infused his in-house knowledge to get the formula for the production. While on the banking job, Jimoh manufactured the

•Workers at the factory

•Jimoh

products on skeletal basis at weekends, manufacturing them in his apartment. He then noticed the high demand for the products.

As at that time, there was no

mobile telephone and it was difficult to know when customers paid into his account. He went on leave from his job and never returned, having been enthralled by the huge demand for his products.His start up capital was his salary of N25,000. His wife and their first son, now a university undergraduate, were his only employees, offering services he could not afford to pay for. Driven by a common passion, Jim, his wife, and son worked late into the night to get the products ready for supply to customers the next day.

As the business grew, he started engaging workers. But due to incessant harassment by the police and customers’ debt burden, everything went down the drain. He was left with huge debt from customers. However, his wife rose to the challenge and gave him a life-line of N1,500, which he took to Ojota to pick his materials to resume production.

Along the line, he got a credit

facility of N76million without collateral, from GROFIN, a South African non governmental organisation with an office in Lagos.

He said the organisation assisted him without going through any hassles Nigerian banks would subject any entrepreneur to.

Securing machines and equipment, courtesy the GROFIN, he was able to engage 75 employees in his factory at Sango Otta, Ogun State.

Today, the company has become a successful business model, with tremendous goodwill and demand for its products.

From a small operation to a business worth millions of Naira, it has been a phenomenal journey. Having adopted a totally new concept of herbal care and cures, Jimoh took time to increase his knowledge of the healing powers of herbs and the dangers of chemical and synthetic ingredients. He did this be reading articles in leading newspa-

pers and magazines. As obstacles and hurdles come up in life, he tried to see them as challenges.

With his desire to excel, his relentless determination to succeed, a strong will and sheer hard work, Jimoh believes nothing is impossible.

According to him, awareness of herbal products and treatments, are at an all-time high.

This is attributed to exposure of global trends and lifestyle changes, higher disposable incomes and the trend towards fitness and youth. Right now, product innovation has helped the organisation to remain dynamic.

Walking into his factory is a delight with processed herbs and other materials lining shelves and ingredients for producing soap, creams, lbalms and bathing goodies. And everything is made using natural products, herbs, flowers, natural colourings and other body nutrients.

As the company got bigger, so was the range of products – a variety of soaps and fragrances, creams and lip balms, shampoos and bath bombs. The soaps are made using a mix of oils, which are mixed with essential oils, natural colourings or clays. He has master recipes and is set to customise them with various scents, patterns and ingredients.

Locally produced ingredients, including honey are all sourced and used.

He never imagined he would be doing this. He changed the rules of the business by trusting his instincts; introducing business norms that were ahead of their time and by investing in strategic relationships. He built a series of bonds and networks with hundreds of family members, vendors, dealers and employees. These networks are now the glue that holds the group together. He has been personally responsible for rekindling a spirit of entrepreneurship amongst his employees.

Recognising the potentials of the agricultural sector for economic development, Jimoh is making efforts to establish an agro processing unit in Kwara State.

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22, 2015

39

BUSINESS INTERNATIONAL Club predicts UK growth of 2.8%

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OW inflation and stronger eurozone growth should help the United Kingdom (UK) economy expand 2.8% this year despite political uncertainty ahead of the election, according to an EY Item Club report.

It said low inflation was adding to the benefits of higher employment and the positive effects of lower oil prices.

Item Club chief economic adviser Peter Spencer said the financial markets seem prepared for further Greek problems.

But potential headwinds were a weak government and EU referendum, he said.

The forecast growth is slightly down on the 2.9% expansion that the Item Club previously predicted, due to official fourth-quarter GDP figures coming in weaker than expected.

The Item Club forecasts growth in

2016 of 3%, up from 2.9% estimated previously.

Inflation has fallen to zero in recent months and, along with improvements in employment, is boosting consumer confidence, the Item Club’s spring forecast said.

The report said an added bonus was coming from recovery in the eurozone, helped by the European Central Bank’s •1.1 trillion (£790billion) asset purchase stimulus programme.

The euro bloc’s recovery should offset a hit to overseas trade from the strength of the pound, the Item Club said.

Mr Spencer said: “The economy is taking the general election in its stride as ‘noflation’ trumps politics.

The eurozone recovery is bedding in and completes the positive UK growth picture that we anticipate for 2015 and 2016.

Morgan Stanley profit jumps

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ALL Street investment bank Morgan Stanley re ported a much strongerthan-expected rise in first-quarter profit, boosted by higher revenue from trading bonds and equities.

The bank’s trading business, like those of its main rivals, got a boost in the quarter after the Swiss central bank scrapped a cap on the franc, the European Central Bank announced its quantitative easing program and the U.S. Federal Reserve took steps toward tightening monetary policy.

Global stocks have also generally performed strongly since the start of the year.

“This was our strongest quarter in many years with improved performance across most areas of the firm,” Chief Executive James Gorman said in a statement on Monday.

Net income applicable to Morgan Stanley’s common shareholders

rose to $2.31 billion, or $1.18 per share, in the quarter, from $1.45 billion, or 74 cents per share, a year earlier.

Excluding items, the bank reported earnings of $1.14 per share.

Adjusted earnings according to calculations by Thomson Reuters I/ B/E/S worked out to 85 cents per share. On that basis, analysts had expected per-share earnings of 78 cents.

Net revenue excluding items rose 10.3 percent to $9.78 billion, beating the average estimate of $9.17 billion.

Adjusted revenue from equities sales and trading rose by a third to $2.27 billion - a strong performance, but not enough to beat Goldman Sachs Group Inc, which reported revenue of $2.32 billion.

Morgan Stanley’s shares were up 2.2 percent at $37.55 in premarket trading.

China to unveil $46b super highway to Pakistan T HE building of a China-Paki stan Economic Corridor (CPEC) - a network of roads, railway and pipelines is on course.

It will run some 3,000km (1,865 miles) from Gwadar in Pakistan to China’s western Xinjiang region.

The projects will give China direct access to the Indian Ocean and beyond.

This marks a major advance in China’s plans to boost its economic influence in Central and South Asia, correspondents say, and far exceeds US spending in Pakistan.

“Pakistan, for China, is now of pivotal importance. This has to succeed and be seen to succeed,” Reuters quoted Mushahid Hussain Sayed, chairman of the Pakistani parliament’s defence committee, as saying.

Pakistan, for its part, hopes the investment will boost its struggling economy and help end chronic power shortages.

China plans to inject some $46billion - just a little less than three times the entire foreign direct investment Pakistan has received since 2008. Many say Mr Sharif’s penchant for “thinking big” and

China’s increasing need to control maritime trade routes may well combine to pull off an economic miracle in Pakistan over the next four years, when officials say most of the projects being finalised today will reach completion.

But there are questions over Pakistan’s ability to absorb this investment given its chronic problems with militancy, separatism, political volatility and official corruption.

China is worried about violence from ethnic Uighurs in its mostly Muslim north-western Xinjiang region and fears hardline separatists could team up with Uighur Islamic militants fighting alongside members of Pakistan’s Taliban.

In Pakistan, a decade-old separatist insurgency in Balochistan province, where the economic corridor starts, makes that area extremely volatile. Many observers believe however that the incentive of an economic miracle may make Islamabad work a bit

harder to stabilise the situation.

Leaders are also expected to discuss co-operation on security.

Xi will spend two days holding talks with his counterpart Mamnoon Hussain, Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and other ministers. He will address parliament.

Deals worth some $28billion are ready to be signed during the visit, with the rest to follow.

Under the CPEC plan, China’s government and banks will lend to Chinese companies, so they can invest in projects as commercial ventures.

A network of roads, railways and energy developments will eventually stretch some 3,000km (1,865 miles).

Some $15.5billion worth of coal, wind, solar and hydro energy projects will come online by 2017 and add 10,400 megawatts of energy to Pakistan’s national grid, according to officials.

A $44m optical fibre cable between the two countries is also due to be built.

Mr Xi will hold talks with Pakistan’s president and prime minister

Medview gets FirstBank’s facility

M

EDVIEW Airlines has secured a credit facility from First Bank Nigeria (FBN) Plc to expand its fleet for its proposed intercontinental operations.

The credit facility, according to the Managing Director of the airline, Alhaji Muneer Bankole, would enable the carrier acquire more aircraft to expand its operations on both local regional and intercontinental flights.

Bankole said the assistance from First Bank would go a long way to enable it acquire three aircraft in its expansion plan, describing the partnership with the bank as a welcome development in the aviation sector.

The aircraft just acquired a Boeing 737-400 Classic would enable the carrier boost its expansion plan.

With the additional aircraft, MedView fleet now grows to five Boeing aircraft. The aircraft is configured for 150 passengers; business and economy classes.

Bankole said the aircraft had undergone the necessary inspection

and certification by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA’s) inspectors before it was flown into the country from Thailand.

Bankole said the introduction of the aircraft was an integral part of its long term business model, adding that the aircraft would immediately be deployed to Yola route.

He explained further that another Boeing 767 aircraft would join the airline’s fleet very soon, saying that the expected aircraft would be deployed to Jeddah and Dubai, which it hoped to commence by the last week in June.

He said FirstBank financed the acquisition of the aircraft for the airline, informing that out of its five aircraft, the bank had bankrolled three.

He said: “We are as usual poised to give our customers the best of service and with the introduction of our additional new baby, we will definitely expand our fleet and operations.

Mauritius bank’s shares drop

S

HARES of Mauritius Commer cial Bank (MCB), the largest company by market value on the nation’s Semdex Index , have dropped seven per cent since April last year and recorded third quarter of declines in the three months through March.

A selloff that made Mauritius equities the worst performers in Africa this year risks deepening as a probe into an alleged Ponzi scheme involving one of the Indian Ocean island’s banks and insurers damp investor sentiment.

“The overall sentiment is more on the downside,” Melvyn Chung Kai To, a trader at AXYS Stockbroking Ltd., one of the country’s largest brokerages, said in e-mailed comments on April 15 from the capital, Port Louis.

“It’s a hit for our financial services industry. A bank went bust and the largest life insurer is also out.”

The regulator revoked the license of British-American Investment Co.’s Bramer Banking Corp. on April 2 and placed its insurance unit BAI Co. into administration, with Prime Minister Anerood Jugnauth saying there is evidence of links to a $690 million Ponzi scheme and that the lender risked depositors’ funds.

The events threaten to undermine efforts by Mauritius to position itself as a regional hub for financial services. The industry contributes about 10 percent to the island nation’s $11.9 billion gross domestic product (GDP), according to the African Development Bank.

•From left: Chief Operating Officer, CWG Plc, Mr. Phillip Obioha; Vice-Chancellor, University of Lagos (UNILAG), Prof Rahmon A. Bello, and Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Management Services), Prof Duro Oni, during the presentation of awards to the best graduating students in Computer Science in UNILAG and University of Douala, Cameroon.

Venezuela gets $5b lifeline from China

V

ENEZUELA has received $5billion (£3.4billion) in fi nancing from China, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro says.

The money was for “development”, he said, but gave no details.

The announcement comes three months after Mr Maduro travelled to China - a major investor in the region.

Venezuela is suffering from an acute economic crisis, as the price of its main export, oil, has almost halved over a year. The opposition accuses the government of mis-

management.

Maduro, who visited Beijing in January, said then that China would invest more than $20billion in Venezuela.

He did not make clear in Sunday’s announcement if these latest $5bn were part of that larger sum.

China’s influence Loans by China’s state-owned banks to Latin American countries rose by 71% to $22billion (£14billion) last year, according to estimates published by the China-Latin America Finance Database.

The Chinese loans exceed the com-

bined worth of those by the World Bank and the Inter-American Development Bank, according to the database.

The $5billion will be a boost to Venezuela, which has been hit hard by falling oil price. According to reports, 96% of its export revenues come from oil.

Figures from Venezuela’s oil ministry suggest the price of Venezuelan oil has dropped from $97 in April 2014 to $50 this month.

Inflation in 2014 stood at more than 60% and there are widespread shortages of basic staples such a flour, cooking oil and milk.

Chinese stocks fall despite new stimulus measures

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HINESE stocks fell despite the government stimulus which cut reserve requirements for the second time this year.

The People’s Bank of China (PBoC) reduced the amount of money banks must set aside as reserves by one percentage point in a bid to spur more lending.

The announcement came in the wake of data showing the country grew at its slowest pace in six years.

Hong Kong’s Hang Seng fell 2.02% to 27,094.93, while the Shanghai Composite lost 1.64% to 4,217.08.

Mark Williams, chief Asia economist at Capital Economics, said China acted because “downside

risks to growth appear greater now.

“The decision is a response to the weakness of recent economic data.

Most of the activity and spending data for March came in below consensus.

“Further reserve-requirement ratio (RRR) cuts are likely - perhaps another 150 basis points before the end of the year - along with at least one more cut to benchmark interest rates,” he said.

China’s latest RRR cut is the largest since the global financial crisis, and analysts say the move will inject about 1.2trillion yuan ($193billion; £129billion) of liquidity into the financial system.

However, stocks in Hong Kong

and Shanghai have been swinging between gains and losses as investors digest a separate move by Chinese regulators made late on Friday.

The China Securities Regulatory Commission said it would clamp down on the use of leverage in margin trading and allow funds to lend to short sellers.

This includes banning brokerages from using so-called umbrella trusts and the use of shadow financing, or unregulated accounts, for stock purchases.

Chinese stock markets have seen a rapid run up in value recently, causing concern among policymakers about excess leverage and speculation.

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22, 2015

40

BUSINESS AFRICA

F

OR stakeholders to tackle challenges in the industrial sector, they should promote reverse engineering, Managing Director, Bank of Industry (BoI), Rasheed Olaoluwa, has said.

He spoke during a visit by some management staff of the Nigerian Academy of Engineering to BoI's office in Lagos.

According to Olaoluwa, over-dependence on technology transfer or importation of industrial machines will further limit the country's potential of developing local competencies and industrialisation.

He urged professionals to take a cue from China in reverse engineering technology to meet technological demands that would further address growing needs in the real sector.

Earlier, Olaoluwa said while many developed countries were adopting smart manufacturing models, their Nigerian counterparts were using old equipment,

‘Adopt reverse engineering to bridge technology gap’

By Toba Agboola

which hamper the competitiveness of indigenous goods.

This, according to him, is a challenge that should be addressed as quickly.

He stressed that no country would develop technology and give it away, urging Nigerian engineers, scientists and technologists to adopt reverse engineering.

"BoI has been structured to support commodity-based industrialisation by encouraging value-addition of exploited raw materials. Last year, we visited quite a number of institutes with a view to encouraging technological innovation. We are already in the

process of advancing linkages.

"We will look at collaboration with the academy. We are passionate about technology because of its relationship with industrialisation and the belief that innovation should be explored to address societal needs.”

He said technology transfer is low in the country,adding that research and development should be encouraged to support the growth of

local technology.

"BoI has engaged with top research institutes, such as FIIRO, PRODA to link them to our industries. We may not be cutting edge but we have the basics; if our hundreds of researchers are encouraged, we have a good base we can build on," he said.

President, Nigerian Academy of Engineering, Prof. Raifu Salawu, sought collaboration between the

bank and the academy in making Nigeria's industrialisation a reality, adding that the academy was ready to assist the nation through innovative solutions and experience in achieving the objective.

"The academy through its members has intervened in various development exercises and phases in the nation.

“Today, we are renewing our commitment to the nation's industrialisation efforts by seeking a partnership with the Bank of Industry by offering our services and experience as professionals and intellectuals in ensuring that researches are end-use oriented while facilitating interaction between the academy and industry,’’ he added.

‘Skye Bank to boost SMEs’

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VER 200 customers and business partners in the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise (MSME) sector attended the Southeast edition of Skye Bank’s SMEs’ seminar in Onitsha, Anambra State.

Titled: Nurturing businesses for growth, the bank described the seminar as part of its contributions to the development of the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise (MSME) sector of the economy.

Its Regional Director, Southeast I, Dr. Charles Udogu, said MSMEs are an important growth driver in any economy, warning key economic players in the nation not to neglect the sector.

Udogu said: “Having identified the gap in the SMEs’ sector, Skye Bank organised this seminar to bridge this gap through the bank’s business seminar series.”

Its Head, Small Business Group, Mrs. Ayo Olojede, said the lender was coming up with solutions that would help to minimise the cost of doing busi-

nesses for small business owners.

“If you want to access a loan, there are some simple but fundamental requirements the bank will expect - like a business plan, cash flow projections and basic business skills to determine the viability of the business and ways of partnering with customers to deliver value,’’ Olojede said.

She said the event was held to enlighten the bank’s customers on areas of managing their cash flow and other areas of business operations among other issues.

Managing Director, Dilimson Holdings Limited, Mr. George Umobi, urged participants to confront challenges faced in the course of growing their businesses adding that they should seize the opportunity presented to them by the lender and make the best of it.

Participants’ questions on Skye Bank and the banking were addressed by the bank’s representatives.

Another seminar holds in the Southwest next month.

StarTimes introduces new channels

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TARTIMES is introducing new channels to enrich its content and enhance access for viewers to digital TV experience.

The firm said five new sought-after channels with other fresh additions across its four bouquets are part of the deal.

According to the pay TV, the new channels include Iroko Play, Iroko Plus, AMC Series, Star Zone and Star Sport Focus. While Star Sport Focus came live in March, other channels will be viewed by customers from May 1.

Its Public Relations Manager, Mr. Israel Bolaji, said the developments and direction are borne out of the company's desire and commitment to offer value by enhancing access, improving content, further breaking barriers between the people and the platform and deepening digital TV penetration in Nigeria.

"Our efforts are also geared towards closing the huge gap between the people and digital TV switch campaign, by creating a robust and im-

By Adedeji Ademigbuji

proved digital television experience that is constantly refreshed. Increasingly, more Nigerians can also gain access to an impactful and explosive digital television experience.

He said: "With all these offerings and value, our decoder is available for N990 with N2,400 minimum recharge of any choice bouquet for new customers while our bouquet price is now basic for N1,200, classic for N2,400 and unique for N3,600 monthly respectively effective from April 18.

"To also support our customers further, we are announcing a special offer for customers. If you recharge before April 18, you can pay the old price for as many months as desired and enjoy the new package. For example, if you pay N6000 on classic bouquet before April 18, you can enjoy three months viewing on classic, but after April 18, you can only watch for two months and two weeks with N6000.“

South African inflation may push up interest

S

OUTH Africa has less flexibil ity on interest rates because the outlook for inflation has deteriorated, a deputy central bank governor said.

Daniel Mminele said several trends are stoking inflation, including this year’s increase in oil prices, a weakening in the rand and the likelihood the state power company will raise tariffs.

“Earlier this year we felt that short-term dynamics allowed for a pause on the interest rate normalisation path,” Mminele told a JPMorgan investor seminar on Sunday. “There is now reduced flexibility in this regard.”

As a result, the central bank’s monetary committee will have to “carefully assess when it will be

appropriate to adjust the policy rate further.”

A copy of the speech was posted on the South African Reserve Bank’s website.

Already in late March, Governor Lesetja Kganyago ruled out cutting borrowing costs and said there was no more scope to pause “in the cycle of interest-rate normalisation.” The bank kept the benchmark interest rate unchanged at 5.75 per cent.

The central bank last month raised its inflation forecast for this year to an average 4.8 per cent from 3.8 per cent.

South Africa has been hit by a drought that has slashed its corn crop, the country’s biggest staple.

• From left: Brand Specialist, Globacom, Ijeoma Ngodo; Head, Business Support, Yomi Ogunbamowo; Regional Chief Marketing Officer, Ashok Isrami: and Brand Specialist, Chidinma Ojiawu, during the launch of three new customer-friendly products in Victoria Island, Lagos.

Afrinvest launches online trading, investment Its Head, Corporate CommunicaFRINVEST Securities Limited has introduced an mgt mobile app tions, Oladipo James, said a precon-

A

online equity trading mobile application, offering client's mobile access to their brokerage accounts and portfolio data. The latest innovation follows the launch of the firm's online trading portal Afrinvestor.com - in September last year.

Speaking during the launch in Lagos, its Managing Director, Charles Egbunonwo, said the firm has always believed in the power of information communication technology tools.

He said: "Afrinvest has always placed a premium on the use of technology as a business enabler, and the introduction of Afrinvestor.com is to empower cli-

Stories by Lucas Ajanaku

ents to take more control of their investments, supported by sound investment advice and professional guidance.

"With Afrinvestor.com, our clients and investors will not only be able to initiate and execute trades online; they can also view (and edit) their account information and portfolio performance, access a wealth of in-depth equity research as well as market data and intelligence on companies, key sectors and the broader Nigerian economy, all from the comfort of their homes or offices or on the go."

dition for user to enjoy the benefits of the apps is that prospective user must first register as a user.

He said: "In order to be able to use the app you must first register as a user of our online trading portal - Afrinvestor.com."

"Existing clients of Afrinvest Securities Limited can request for their login credentials by sending an email to us at afrinvestsecuritiesltd @afrinvest.com while new clients need only complete our simple online account opening form and upload required documents at www.afrinvestor.com and begin trading; no minimum account opening balance required."

Group to employ 25,000

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NON-FOR-PROFIT organisation, Eagle Search and Rescue Foundation (ESRF), said it would recruit no fewer than 25,000 youths across the country to serve as its data field workers.

It said the measure would help reduce the number of the unemployed youths in the country.

Its Group Coordinator-General, Mr. Sunday Ajanaku, who spoke in Lagos, said an average of 700 jobless youths would be hired in each of the 36 states, adding that they would serve as community social field data workers and would be well remunerated.

According to him, graduates would be engaged to manage the Social Security and e-Manifest Card Scheme on accident cases that involve any poor driver. He said they would start to receive prompt and free medical accidental treatment from the Eagle Search Healthcare providers and financial responsibility for such victim(s) from risk underwriters (insurance firms) when accident occurs with the ESRF Social Security or eManifest Card Subscribers nationwide.

He said: "This is just the beginning of a long overdue and first initiative of its kind as an indigenous private

organisation to participate and complement the social security, financial responsibilities and welfare scheme for our people as contributive to the incoming government of Gen Muhammadu Buhari (rtd) against accident and emergency related issues.

"We are aware of the efforts of National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) is handling the health-related matters, we shall all work as one nation towards the successful flag off the social security of life and properties and economic development of our great country. Also, we will join hands with other relevant government and private agencies to support the government.

"The long-awaited government for a rapid social life and economic development for the helpless and under privileged during an unexpected accident and emergencies in our country. Nigeria will then serve as power house to other African countries as first private initiatives participation in the social security and economic welfare developmental scheme of its kinds in the history of African nation as arranged thus."

He said in the past, of the social field data workers needed for the scheme, the group recruited about

1,200 in Lagos, Abuja, Kaduna, Plateau, Cross River, Osun, Sokoto, Enugu, Oyo and Ekiti states. adding that due to some exigencies, the commencement of the data registration by the youths were placed on hold pending the execution of the memorandum of understanding (MoU) between ESRF and the Association of General and Private Medical Practitioners of Nigeria (AGPMPN), which has been endorsed and sealed at the National Executive Council Meeting of the AGPMPN held in Aba, Abia State.

He said: "The scheme will become operational from third quarter this year after recruitment exercise and preparations have been concluded with all the operational partners in the project. These includes 13 insurance companies, brokers, Premium Manifest Alert Ltd, Consumer Protection Council (CPC), Digital Torch Ltd, S. Folagboye Colour Digital, Chams Access, Interswitch and most importantly, the AGPMPN which has made available over 10,000 member's private and including government hospitals for prompt and free medical treatment for all accident victims with Eagle Search Social Security or e-Manifest Card Members at an annual token for subscription.”

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22, 2015

43

CROSSWORD PUZZLE With ekpoita :funtreatsvilla@yahoo.com / 08077706130 SANDS OF TIME GARY COLEMAN

PERSONALITY MAZE Solve the puzzle by providing alternative words to the clues below.

Each letter of your word has a place in the grid as indicated by the numbers beside the clues.

1.

9

2

8

3

7

CLUES Press (1,9,5,6,7) Roof (2,8,3,4)

4

5

6

Your answer will unfold an appendage of the photo inset Gary Wayne Coleman was an American actor, voice artist, and comedian, best known for his role as Arnold Jackson in Diff’rent Strokes and for his small stature as an adult. He was described in the 1980s as “one of television’s most promising stars”.

Without a doubt Gary Coleman was THE child TV star of the late 1970s and early 1980s. A refreshingly confident little tyke with sparkling dark, saucer-like eyes and an ingratiating, take-on-anyone burst of personality, the boy charmed the pants right off of TV viewers the minute he was glimpsed in national commercials. Amazed by how mature he came across, Gary was in truth older than he looked, which was brought upon by a congenital kidney condition. Sadly, the pint-sized phenomena outgrew his chubby-cheeked welcome and found the course of his grown-up Hollywood career brutally rough and patchy.

In addition to his life-long health issues, Gary’s adult problems came in the form of scattered financial and legal entanglements, as well as scrapes with the law. He was once arrested in 1999 for punching a persistent female autograph fan, in which he was fined and ordered to take anger-management classes. He also had many disorderly conduct and reckless driving charges brought up against him at various times. He would admit that the tally of his life problems led to more than a few feigned suicide attempts In 1989, Coleman successfully sued his adopted parents and business manager after they allegedly pilfered his youthful fortune for their own self interest totaling $3.8 million in losses, and he won $1,280,000. Despite the large settlement, all of the money was soon spent on taxes, legal fees,

COLEMAN CONT’D as well as his increasingly high medical bills for his continuing dialysis treatments.

In 2007, he married the much younger actress Shannon Price, whom he met on the set of the low budget film Church Ball (2006), but the quickly marriage dissolved quickly into domestic squabbles that put him in front of the court system yet again on domestic abuse charges Filed for bankruptcy in 1999. In order to earn money, he worked as a security guard.

As a gag, he ran for California’s 2003 governorship during its recall election.

The fragile condition of his health coupled with this lack of adult career acceptance, sparked an aggressively defensive behavior mechanism in his adult years and led to great personal unhappiness, chronic legal/financial hassles and early death.

The brain hemorrhage that eventually led to his death, was a result of a fall at his home in Utah (on May 26th) that put him into a coma. His ex-wife Shannon Price, who was with him at his home at the time of the fall, made the 911 call. It was also Price who eventually made the decision to take Coleman off life support.

ACROSS 1. Celebration (9) 6. Greeting (2) 7. Documentation (6) 9. Indelible Mark (4) 10. Former (2) 11. Spread Out (3) 12. Final (4) 14, Resounding Noise (4) 15. In direction of (2) 16, Myself (2) 17. Eager (4) 19. Young Boy (3) 20. Father Christmas (10) 24. Being (2) 26. Tinkle (6) 27. Perform (2) 28. Tease (6)

DOWN 1. Impression (4) 2. Cereal (4) 3. Created (4) 4. Amuse (6) 5. Celebration of Christ’s birth(9) 8. Free Air (6) 11. Paths (5) 13. Clawed 18. Deserve (4) 19. Juvenile (3) 21. Story (4) 22. So be it (4) 23. Musical Note (2) 25. Gladness (3)

44

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22, 2015

SHOWBIZ

Lekan Babalola, Bright Gain, others for Lagos Jazz Festival

I

NSPIRO Productions, organisers of Lagos International Jazz Festival, has unveiled a list of performing acts for this year’s edition of the show.

Tagged Jazz in the Megacity, the organisers say that the intention is to celebrate Nigerian Jazz and Jazz related musicians who play the genre of music in various fusions and with an indigenous flavour.

Artistes for this year’s bill which runs from April 30 to May 2 at The Freedom Park includes two-time U.K.-based Grammy award-winning Nigerian International mega-percussionist, Lekan Babalola, U.S.-based multi – instrumentalist, Adeniji the

By Ovwe Medeme

‘Heavywind’, Bass virtuoso and director of the SPAN Academy of Jazz and contemporary music, Bright Gain, veteran musician and classical clarinetist, Tee Mac, vocal sensation, Ego and neo-highlife musical icon, Nomoreloss amongst a long list of other accomplished and upcoming musicians.

Festival founder and director, Ayoola Sadare said; “our dream is to make the Lagos International Jazz Festival not just another entertainment event but as one that adds value to both the Lagos Megacity as a tourist destination, contributes to its GDP and pre-

H

By Joe Agbro Jr

S

•Ego

Organisers hype Fayrouz L’Original’s second season

Jackie Appiah, Hilda Dokubo shine in Stigma TIGMA, a movie about the challenges of living with HIV/ AIDS, is set to premiere in Lagos on Saturday April 25, at the Old Film Unit, Nigerian Film Corporation, Ikoyi.

The movie which is being premiered in collaboration with Lagos Film Society and Nigerian Film Corporation stars Hilda Dokubo and Jackie Appiah in lead roles.

Directed by Dagogo Diminas, Stigma tells the story of a mother and daughter (Ibiso and Vanessa) who contract HIV due to the kind of job they do as traditional midwives in a village.

Ibiso and Vanessa are quickly ostracized by

sents an international platform for our indigenous musicians. We believe that the festival should be one of the leading Jazz festivals in Africa in the near future and are working tirelessly to fully integrate Lagos into the global jazz tourism circuit. We are satisfied with our eclectic lineup of artistes who will be playing this genre and other related ones with traditional Jazz, Naijazz, Afrojazz, Fuji, Afrobeat, Apala, Highlife and NaijaHiphop all represented on 5 stages aptly named after prominent Nigerian musical icons of blessed memory, namely Fela Kuti, Elder Steve Rhodes, Fatai Rolling Dollar, Osita Osadebe and Bala Milla.”

•Dokubo

family members and the community to die. Ibiso cannot stand the stigma, loneliness, and financial constraints; she gives up finally and dies. But Vanessa chooses to fight stigmatisation, and rejection and triumphs over death because she finds somebody who stands by her side.

The film is not just a drama about ignorance and the consequences of carelessness but also about the power to overcome desperate situations in life, to burst one’s bonds and finally to be what you want to be.

OPE was rekindled for upcoming models, designers, photographers and makeup artists, as the second season of the Fayrouz L’Original competition kicked off on Thursday, April 2.

The maiden edition of the show, which held amidst pomp last year, featured young and talented hopefuls from different parts of the country who, assembled in different teams, battled for N4million cash prize along with many other goodies.

Organisers say their website is opened to interested participants. And will be followed by auditions in Lagos, Ibadan, Enugu and Port Harcourt.

They say the competition promises to be an exciting one for both participants as

well as fashion enthusiasts, even as ace photographer, Kelechi Amadi Obi has joined fashion designers, Mai A t a f o , K u n b i Oyelese (April by Kunbi) as judges for the competition. Organisers say there will be surprise guest appearances during the auditions.

There are strong indications that winners of last edition, Team Elan, including notable talents such as Temitayo Nathan and Toyin Oyeneye, have been making headway in the industry, having exhibited their designs at the prestigious Lagos Fashion & Design Week last November, where they shared the same runway with industry heavyweights like Lanre Da Silva, Maki Oh and the

C

at the showcase.

Fayrouz L’Original Expressions ccompetition stemmed from the Be Original campaign launched

by Fayrouz, and since winning the competition and scooping the $20,000 prize, Team Elan’s fashion and design careers have taken off impressively.

•Plans N100,000 gift for lookalike winner

N

By Joe Agbro Jr

address the subject of contemporary issues in the development of dance and choreography.

According to the organisers, the call for proposals only accepts applications from groups, as individual submissions will not be considered.

‘We explicitly invite contributions that critically reflect upon and/or in some way, work to modify familiar conventions and formats.’

The deadline for submission is Tuesday, 26th May 2015 and proposals in German or English should be sent to proposal@tanzkongress.de

Okunoren Twins.

I n t e r e s t i n g l y , Nathan was then chosen by the Lagos Fashion and Design Week to feature at the London Fashion Week in February, a l o n g s i d e G r e y Lamisigo, Kenneth Ize and Orange Culture, and they emerged winners

Omoni Oboli celebrates birthday

Dance Congress calls for application ONTEMPORARY choreography institute, Dance Congress, has invited artists, theorists and students working with dance to apply with questions and issues, work projects and case studies from their respective practices.

The move is in line with the fourth edition of the project, which organizers have announced will take place in Hanover, Germany, from June 16 to 19, 2016.

The forum discusses and presents dance, choreography and movement in theory and practice.

Dance Congress 2016 will however; particularly

•L’Original judges

•Omoni Oboli with husband Nnamdi

OLLYWOOD actress and producer, Omoni Oboli, whose birthday is today, must be having the climax of a celebration she began with her fans on Instagram, the picture sharing social media, some time back.

‘It’s my birthday on the 22nd,’ she wrote weeks earlier, obviously having her endearing fans in mind.

‘I think birthdays are the coolest days ever! It’s that one day you can get away with anything. Well…almost anything! I love the whole idea of being pampered and spoilt silly! I am like a little girl in a candy store. Everything’s calling out to me and I want it all.

So I am expecting loads of gifts from y’all. I am so thankful to God for another year. I am thankful for family and friends. I am thankful for elevation and growth. I am ever so grateful for the love you

By Joe Agbro Jr

all have shown me in the last year. You are no more fans, I call you my #omonifam. You are family! What would I do without you!’

Oboli, whose latest flick, Being Mrs Elliot, enjoyed some prominence, also got her fans to post pictures of themselves alongside hers in a lookalike competition, promising one lucky winner a prize of N100, 000. The competition was however only for her Instagram fans. ‘So if you ain’t following on IG, now would be a good time to,’ she said.

Lots of her fans took the bait and by yesterday, the Nollywood Star’s Instagram page was filled with pictures of fans in pose similar to hers. And while it was mostly females that uploaded their pictures, the picture of a male and two little girls were sighted among the entrants.

45

WEDNESDAY APRIL 22, 2015

POLITICS THE NATION

E-mail:- politics@thenationonlineng.net

On May 29, Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola (SAN) will bow out of office with pride, after completing two terms of eight years. Unlike some of his colleagues, who are now senators-elect, he did not contest. What future awaits the governor? Group Political Editor EMMANUEL OLADESU asks.

What next for Fashola?

T

HE greatest achievement of Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola (SAN) is that he will hand over to another technocrat, party man and progressive disciple, Mr. Akinwumi Ambode, thereby fulfilling the dream of a government of continuity.

Fashola’s predecessor, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, has been described as the pathfinder.

The governor has also lived up to expectation as an actualiser. Now, it is up to Ambode, the chartered accountant, to justify the confidence reposed in him as the consolidator.

Seven and half years have passed like a flash of lightening since Fashola became the governor. On May 29, he will bow out of office after a meritorious service.

What role will he play when he vacates office? Will he return to his chamber? Many had expected that the governor will vie for the Senate in the Lagos West District, which hosts the seat of government. But, he did not show interest during the primaries. When the All Progressives Congress (APC) forms the next central government, will he make the cabinet? Or will Fashola set up a non-governmental organisation (NGO) to pursue worthy causes in aid of humanity?

For many years to come, Lagosians will recall the Fashola years with fondness. The governor will be remembered as an astute and hardworking administrator. In the governorship, parliamentary and presidential campaigns, references were made to his achievements in the Centre of Excellence. The recent general elections brought out the best in the lawyer-turned politician. He campaigned with vigour. But, according to party chieftains, the governor will not be remembered as a strategic politician, powerful organiser and shrewd mobiliser. He will only remain a reference point as an excellent administrator.

Two men, Ambode, the APC standard bearer, who is now the governor-elect, and Jimi Agbaje, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, struggled to succeed Fashola. But, it was clear from the beginning that, judging by the predictable disposition of Lagosians, the APC candidate will have an edge over his PDP rival at the general elections. Although many thought that Fashola did not support the former Accountant-General and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Finance, at the primaries, Fashola deployed enormous power and resources to ensure his victory. After the primaries, the governor has dispelled the rumour that Ambode was not his preferred candidate. He clarified to reporters that Ambode was his preferred choice from the beginning. Some believed him, others did not. But, Fashola knew that the chartered accountant would emerge as his successor, following his emergence as the candidate at the transparent primaries held at the Teslim Balogun Stadium, Surulere.

At the flag-off of the governorship campaigns in Ikeja, the governor justified Ambode’s candidature, saying that he is better than Agbaje. Fashola called for the sustainability of the progress made in Lagos by the progressive family in the last 16 years.

He said the former Accountant-General has youthful vigour and zest, which are required for the job. “It is a tough job. I took the job at the age of 44. Now, I am 52. When I took the job, I could count the number of grey hairs I had. Now, I can’t count them again. I thank Lagosians for giving me the job. I thank Lagosians for also taking care of me.

Akinwumi Ambode is younger than me. You need youthfulness to do this job. That man (the PDP candidate) is already 60. An old man

•Fashola (third from left), Asiwaju Tinubu (right), Ambode (left), Bayo Ajisebutu and Mrs Orelope-Adefulire at the opening of the APC campaign in Ikeja, the state capital.

cannot do the job. If you call him at midnight, he will not pick your call, “ he added.

When he bows out, Fashola will be greatly missed by Lagosians. But, he will not be on the same pedestal with his indomitable leader and predecessor, Asiwaju Tinubu. Since he may not deploy deft political skills and sagacity, as the outcome of the governorship shadow poll has shown, the legal star may play nominal roles in party affairs at the state level in post-2015 period. It was believed that the governor was either backing the aspiration of Works Commissioner Dr. Obafemi Hamzat or Supo Sasore (SAN), his former Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice. But, both aspirants could not fly.

Few brilliant minds are as lucky as Fashola.

When he succeeded Alhaji Layiwola Mohammed as the Chief of Staff in 2003, eyes were not on him. The lawyer from Surulere was a quiet, easy-going, lefty aide in the cabinet officae. Before he joined the government, he was a promising lawyer in Kafaru Tinubu Chamber. Although he occupied a powerful and influential position in the Tinubu Administration, he did not see himself as a politician and power broker.

Fashola was expected to be the link or liaison officer between the government and the ruling party. But, according to sources, he was not keen about the role. Therefore, when his boss nominated him for governorship, many party members were surprised.

Tinubu’s Special Adviser-designate on Political and Legislative Matters, Hon. Lateef Raji, who broke the news to reporters, said the former governor had seen what many people could not see. “Our leader, Governor Bola Tinubu, is backing a particular aspirant. He described him as a SAN with a sound mind.

I tell you, he will become the next governor,” he said.

When members of the State Executive Council got wind of Tinubu’s succession plan, there was a bitter opposition to it. The exception was Works Commissioner Rauf Aregbesola, who supported his boss. Immediately, the singing train of party women, led

by Iya Kalokalo Folake Shokunbi, started to compose songs at party meetings for Fashola.

Other aspirants were envious. There was a sort of resentment. The aspirants-Otunba Olufemi Pedro, Prince Abiodun Ogunleye, Senator Tokunbo Afikuyomi, Mr. Jimi Agbaje, Dr. Tola Kasali, Mrs. Remi AdikwuBakare, Ganiyu Solomon, Hon. Oyinlomo Danmole protested. When Fashola stormed the party secretariat on Acme Road, Ogba, Ikeja to collect the nomination form, drummers accosted him at the gate. He was not prepared for funfair. He waved at the crowd, baring the two-finger victory. Tinubu became Fashola’s coach. At the palace of the Ayangburen of Ikorodu, aspirants were showering money on drummers and party women. Fashola was indifferent. The former governor said: “Tunde, as a politician, you need to spend money too.”

Before the primaries, there was a live television debate involving the aspirants.

Fashola and Pedro nearly clashed at the event.

Apparently in a bid to disparage the office of the Chief of Staff, the former deputy governor likened it to an inconsequential portfolio. Fashola fired back, saying that he allocated official duties on behalf of Tinubu to the members of the executive council.

After the primaries, there was a revolt, but it was short-lived. Some aspirants ran to the Afenifere leaders for refuge. But, they later returned to the Action Congress (AC) when they discovered that their future was bleak there. Tinubu embarked on reconciliation. A party insider said, although the position of running mate was offered to Adikwu Bakare, she rejected it. The circumstances surrounding Tinubu’s inability to return to the Senate in 2007 were also not in the realm of conjecture. The coast was not clear, according to sources. The experienced politician saw the handwriting on the wall. The power-loaded President, Olusegun Obasanjo, was not disposed to Tinubu’s senatorial ambition. The former governor therefore, stepped down and gave the ticket to an aggrieved governorship aspirant, Solomon.

After emerging as the standard bearer, Fashola was able to convince Lagosians that he will be a worthy successor. He is fluent, witty and, at times, humorous. His response

‘

When he bows out, Fashola will be greatly missed by Lagosians. But, he will not be on the same pedestal with his indomitable leader and predecessor, Asiwaju Tinubu

’

to questions during debates and media interviews are usually sound, logical and convincing. Therefore, despite the general perception that he was a Tinubu boy, he also came across as a brilliant person who has learned the ropes.

After assuming the reins, Fashola began to build on his predecessor’s achievement in a grand style. He cleared Oshodi, the ever throbbing and chaotic bus stop on the mainland, to the surprise of people who thought that it was impossible. The Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) was already in the pipeline. Fashola implemented it faithfully. He also embarked on road construction, school rehabilitation and housing projects. Lagos became a huge construction site. Those who grumbled when Tinubu insisted on Fashola as the candidate said that the former governor has been vindicated. Governors, ministers and other foreign officials visited Lagos to commend the governor. Niger State Governor Babangida Aliyu described him as the best governor and a role model, urging other governors to emulate him.

Despite his performance, it was relatively difficult for him to convince the party that he deserved re-nomination in 2011. There were certain developments that made the second term race uneasy. The dawned on the Fashola camp that the selection process at primaries was an exclusive party affair and certain things must be put right to secure re-nomination. A source said that the House of Assembly dangled the impeachment hammer.

Although Fashola survived, the lessons were not lost on him and other apolitical figures in government. His former deputy, Princess Sarah Sosan, was not that lucky. Her position was taken by another Awori, Mrs. Victoria Tawakalitu Orelope-Adefulire, who was the Women Affairs Commissioner.

In his second term, Fashola consolidated on the achievements of the first term. There has not been any lull in governance. Even, controversial steps and difficult decisions were taken in the interest of the state. An eloquent speaker, Fashola justified every action during the 100 days programme, where he rendered accounts.

As preparations for the governorship poll gathered momentum, there was tension in the ruling party. Many chieftains, including Dr. Muiz Banire, the National Legal Adviser, raised the alarm that the party might be doomed because of what he described as its culture of imposition. Before then, Fashola had bared his mind on succession in the political family and state. At Tinubu’s birthday • Continued on page 46

THE NATION WEDNESDAY APRIL 22, 2015

46

There is no room for business as usual. To effect a ‘change in any society is not easy. Certain aspects of our life must change in the spirit of the new dawn ‘

Emerhor calls for cancellation of Delta governorship poll

A

• Senator-elect, Abu Ibrahim (Katsina South) (left) receiving his Certificate of Return from the INEC National Commissioner, Mohammed Wali, at the INEC headquarters, Abuja.

Jafojo praises Buhari, Ambode

F

ORMER Lagos State Deputy Governor Rafiu Jafojo has congratulated President-elect Muhammadu Buhari and Lagos State Governor-elect Akinwumi Ambode, describing their victory as a victory for democracy.

He urged the people to support them in the arduous task of laying a new foundation for the country and the state, stressing that governance is a collective enterprise.

Jafojo said ina statement in Lagos that the former military Head of State deserved a second chance because of his vision for a better Nigeria, where corruption, insecurity, unemployment and moral decadence will be a thing of the past.

He added: “Governance will not be a tea party under Buhari. There is much work to do. I also pity him because if the rot he will meet on ground. he will inherit an ailing economy, a country confronted by insecurity, im-

By Emmanuel Oladesu patient citizens yearning for miracles.

But, I know that he is capable of living up to expectation.”

Jafojo advised the President-elect to conduct the affairs of the country as as a converted democrat. he said Buhari has to be firm and step in toes, if necessary, in the national interest.

The former deputy governor said: “There is no room for business as usual. To effect a change in any society is not easy. Certain aspects of our life must change in the spirit of the new dawn. Nigerans must also not expect miracle overnight. They should support the government with advice, constructiuve criticisms and patience, knowing that the President-elect will make us of the mandate conferred on him to make a difference in governance.”

Jafojo hailed Ambode for fighting

a good fight, saying that it would have been disastrous for Lagos State, if the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) had won the governorship election.

He saluted the APC National Leader, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, for his courage and resilience, adding that he has succeeded in leading the opposition to the promised land.

Jafojo urged Ambode to rule with the fear of God, stressing that the onus is on him to build on the achievements of Asiwaju Tinubu and Governor Babatunde Fashola (SAN).

He added: “The progressive beat must continue in Lagos. Ambode has pedigree and antecedents. We know that he will live up to expectation. He must strive to surpass the achievements of the two men before him-Asiwaj Tinubu and Mr. Babatunde Fashola. He should rule with the fear of God.”

What next for Fashola?

• Continued from page 45

in Lagos, he publicly advised his leader not to be partial in political selection. An unruffled Tinubu, in his reply, reminded the governor of how he emerged. Stressing that he had no regret about his support for his candidature at the 2007 primaries, the former governor emphasised that, if he had not been partial, Fashola would not have become governor and Lagos would not have achieved the tremendous progress.

Tinubu’s reply threw more light on the doctrine of party supremacy and the gerontocratic wisdom of elders as the guidance of the process. There are three characteristics of a political party -- ideology, organisation and leadership. Although many will aspire, there is need for selfless elders and inspiring leaders to brainstorm on what is suitable for the party and acceptable to the voting public.

In fact, many politicians perceive political partiality as a loose concept. Elder statesman Chief Bisi Akande, a member of the old order, justified the role of the party leadership in the selection of candidates, saying that money bags could hijack the process, if it is not well guided by the party. A Lagos legislator, Bisi Yusuf, said the selection is a party affair, adding: “When it does not favour them, it is imposi-

tion. When it favours them, they talk about party supremacy and party discipline.”

Under normal circumstances, a governor will not be indifferent to the nature, tendency and sentiment of his successor. However, according to observers, the climate must be right. Thus, when Fashola attempted to assert personality, sources said he could not mobilise for the success of his preferred candidate at the primaries because he was not in control of the party machinery.

In post-2015 period, Fashola may write his memoir. Many are of the view that the achievements of his administration should be documented. If he returns to his profession, he will not be the first lawyerpolitician to do so. Shortly after his release from the prison and after serving as the Federal Commissioner for Finance, the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo picked up his wigs. Other politicians-Chief Richard Akinjide, Chief Kehinde Sofola, Chief Theophilus Benson, Chief Adeniran Ogunsanya-returned to the law practice after leaving the government.

However, a party source said that, being a founding father of the APC, his experience would also be required in the re-shaping of Nigeria under the new administration headed by Gen. Muhammadu Buhari. “Except he decides otherwise, Fashola will be useful to the

LL Progressives Congress governorship candidate in Delta State Olorogun O’tega Emerhor has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to cancel the election results.

Emerhor said in Warri that the election purportedly won by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, was marred by irregularities.

He said during the election mayhem was unleashed by PDP on voters in Delta North and Central to disrupt the election. He said PDP chieftains were working with thugs to seize result sheets and cart away materials in the APC stronghold.

According to Emerhor: “The violence and commotion stated above was however designed as a smokescreen for the real fraud of cooking up figures between PDP and their INEC accomplices. These figures are allotted whimsically to the three main contending parties. “While it is true that card readers were used only at

voting points reserved to showcase proper election, generally the use of card readers were not only ignored but results were fabricated 100%. This happened because the state government power and machinery were brought to bear to seize INEC’s machinery in other to deliver a pre-ordered voting pattern.”

The APC candidate said the results announced for most local government areas in the state were fabricated and bear no relationship to the actual voting, adding that the figures were heavily inflated and bear no relationship to the accredited figure in card readers generated.

Emerhor emphasized that with the time frame for voting and the heavy downpour and other logistics involved, there was NP way such figures can be generated.

He added that allocation of votes to the parties was a deliberate attempt to put Labour at 2nd position in other to portray as a weak party in the state.

Adeleke: An epitome of quality representation

A

beneficiary of bursary awards instituted by Senator Isiaka Adeleke in 1993, Mr Sanjo Olawuyi, has described his re-election as the right step in the right direction.

Addressing reporters in Lagos State, Olawuyi described Adeleke as a philanthropist, public spirited politician, epitome of good governance and quality representation. He continues by shedding light on how Alhaji Adeleke signed the law establishing the Osun State College of Technology and assisted indigenes in tertiary institutions, when he was the governor. In March 2008, he instituted scholarship awards for about 100 indigent students in tertiary institutions across the country.

Olawuyi, an indigene of Osun West Senatorial District, said: There is no doubt that, the good people of the District will benefit immensely from the antecedents, pedigree and the wealth of experience of Senator Isiaka Adeleke, who has

•Adeleke

served Nigeria in the following capacities: Chairman, Governing Council, Nigeria Export Promotion Council; Pro-Chancellor and Chairman Governing Council, University of Calabar; in July 2009, he was appointed as the Chairman Senate committee on INEC, the platform he used to advocate for the rights of Nigerians living abroad to vote; and a one time Senate Committee Member on: upstream Petroleum Resources, Integration and Cooperation, Housing and Air Force.

‘INEC’s option is to declare me governor-elect’

C •Fahola

next government and Nigeria at the federal level,” he added.

The transition in Lagos will be smooth. Between now and May 29, Fashola will be Ambode’s tutor. He is expected to pass critical information about governance to his successor because, just as Tinubu’s achievement has been Fashola’s success, the success of Ambode will also be Fashola’s achievement after vacating power.

Fashola will remain a factor in Lagos for a long time because of his feats. Many also believe that he will be a reference point in good governance for a long time.

ONTRARY to plans for a supplementary election in some wards and polling units in Abia State, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu, has said that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) will encounter a credibility crisis, if it fails to declare him winner of the April 11 governorship election.

Ikpeazu, who polled 248,459 votes against Chief Alex Otti of the All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA) who scored 165,407, said that with 83, 053 votes ahead of Otti, he is already a winner.

He said both the INEC’s Resident Electoral Commission for Abia State, Professor Celina Oko and the Returning Officer, Professor Benjamin Ozumba, did not hide their bias in declaring the Abia governorship election inconclusive where there is a clear winner with wide margin.

In a statement in Umuahia, the state capital, Ikpeazu said: “The case of Abia State governorship election result will definitely raise so much credibility and integrity questions against

Professor Jega and INEC. It is unheard of that in an election where the winner has 83,053 votes against loser is declared inconclusive.

“INEC has accepted and announced result from the 17 local government areas of Abia, and I scored 248,459 while Alex Otti got 165,407, which means that Otti has 83,053 votes deficit, instead of declaring me winner, the Resident Electoral Commission for Abia State, Professor Mrs. Celina Oko, who I later got to understand is a relative of Otti, got a willing partner in the person of Professor Ozumba.

“Going from the result already announced and entered into INEC Form EC8D, which is summary of results from the 17 local government areas of Abia State, collated at the state level, declared and duly signed by Professor Ozumba, and all the accredited agents of political parties in the state collation centre in Umuahia, including Chief Ahamdi Nweke, of APGA, and Dr. Solomon Ogunji of the PDP, shows I am the winner of the election.”

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22, 2015

47

The Midweek Magazine

‘H

E who exalts himself will be humbled and he who humbles himself will be exalted” (Matthew 23:12) “Blessed are the meek” (Matthew 5: 5) Professor Tekena Tamuno (19322015), a former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, joined his ancestors on Saturday, April 11, 2015.

He once used the metaphor of the “mother banana” and the “banana family” to illustrate the dynamics of the continuum and how our universe functions: that as the mother banana dies it gives birth to a new one! In essence, Professor Tamuno was this “mother banana,” forever green, immortal, and transcendental.

Most certainly, there are greater minds to attest to Professor Tamuno’s long career; furthermore, there are hundreds of eye-witnesses to recount his days as the Vice Chancellor of the University of Ibadan; while there are also far more talented historians than my humble self to highlight his contributions to the writing of Nigerian history. Yet, as an act of fate as someone who interacted with him for over three decades, I have had the privilege of producing this tribute in his honor, and he deserves every laudatory statement I can make. I was drawn to Prof Tamuno in equal percentages: a third because of his personality; another third for his style; and a final third on behalf of his professionalism.

Therefore, my tribute is arranged to touch upon each of these triple perspectives that together constitute his heritage. When Malcolm X died in February of 1965, Ossie Davis described him in his eulogy as a shining black star. Similarly, Prof Tamuno, in my estimation, was one of our shining stars in the sky, one that we looked up to for the light that could illuminate the path on which we walked.

Professionally, Prof Tamuno was a prolific historian, and without exaggeration, I can underscore, also without reservation, that there was none in his generation that out-produced him. On the leadership front, he was a talented leader, and there was no one that served on more committees, commissions and fact-finding missions more than he did. He got things done, and he produced consensus, indeed far more than anyone of his generation. His overall success, I had come to assume, was because he understood himself: He was open as well as being mutually respectful of others while still being conscious of his terrain and his place in history, unique qualities that he never exaggerated, not even for a moment.

On my part, I can only offer a summation—indeed a précis—of his glorious career as a professional historian. In it Prof Tamuno was Ibadan personified in a variety of ways: he entered the University of Ibadan in 1953 and he continued to live in Ibadan City, with a few interruptions, courtesy of national and international engagements, till 2015. He was a citizen of the city of Ibadan and he was certainly pre-eminently far more qualified than I, the “son of the soil,” to be an Ibadan chief. There was no significant academic or administrative position at the University of Ibadan that he was not invited to occupy; and as the records clearly demonstrate, he never struggled for any of them, from the Head of Department to the Vice-Chancellor, all positions in which he served with distinction. From his PhD thesis to his very last piece of writing, he was perpetually pre-occupied by not less than six inter-related investigations: (i) the evolution of Nigeria, from its pre-colonial indigenous culture to the modern, and from the creation of amalgamated Nigeria through colonial conquest to the end of British rule; (ii) the creation of roads and railways to provide modern infrastructure and communication systems; (iii) law and order in a changing state, in terms of an indigenous security system, the police force, and the army; (iv) institutions of govern-

E-mail:- ozoluauhakheme@yahoo.com

Tamuno: The sacred canopy of our rainbow coalition

ANNIVERSARY

• The late Prof. Tamuno

By Prof. Toyin Falola

TRIBUTE ance (how federalism evolved, and how our leaders managed and betrayed us); (v) the stages in our growth from 1885 to the present; and (vi) our various predicaments, including issues of underdevelopment, poverty and leadership deficit. In all, after offering a sober analysis, he would confess, as he once did in a keynote address delivered in 1983 for a conference on nation-building: We are humble enough to acknowledge that we know not yet all we wish to know about this great country, Nigeria, about its great people, and their great problems.

Limited space is often a thief of money and time, sadly disempowering me from a detailed critical elaboration of the aforementioned points. Yet, I also know very well that space cannot steal reflexivity. “Nigeria matters,” Tamuno proclaimed to all listening ears. In all of his writings, he persuasively argued that the problems of Nigeria would ultimately yield to its success. He gathered tremendous amounts of data on specific institutions, always trying to highlight the weight and import of evidence, and more so the importance of the explicit over the implicit. He was, in varied ways, a masterful storyteller, bringing out variation upon variation in dealing with topics and themes, mapping debates, respecting various opinions, and creating his own ideas. He certainly understood the workings of a nation in formation, a political elite that was conflicted, and of institutions that were in the process of maturation. He had a firm grounding in archival sources, for many years unearthing more archival “gems” than many of his peers. His perspective was both regional and national, as he was always offering nuanced understanding of the Nigerian condition. Irrespective of the moment in our history, our anguish and sorrow, Prof Tamuno applied the gentle balm, as he wiped our tears, and he sang joyful songs, indeed as, inter alia, he once did in the following words: Hence, they are Songs of joy and sorrow, Paeans of pleasure, Groans of pain, That blends moments of mirth With those of wrath, But with no target enemies, With no firm friends With an appeal, or whatever, To all of goodwill over the world [Songs of an Egg-head (Alafeni: Port Harcourt, 1982).]

I knew him well as a Nigerian! As

I still recall, I was with him for a few days in 1990, when he was at the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies at Kuru where he worked temporarily as a Visiting Professor. In excitement, he took me to visit a plot of land that he bought in Jos to build his retirement house.

To my surprise, he confided his retirement plan with me, saying that living in that part of Nigeria, the center of the country, represented his affirmation of the country’s oneness.

The seriousness of his “oneness” understanding of Nigeria as a nation was the driving force of his intellectual career of well over half a century. He chose themes of oneness, from the evolution of the country’s boundaries to the institutions of managing the state, such as the police. Bothered by issues around violence, he devoted considerable space in his scholarship to the analysis of conflicts and strategies for peace. His demeanour, words, and strategic choices represented peace—both in over a dozen private discussions as well as in public where his humility was always fresh and striking. He was never tired of welcoming guests, giving them food from his garden, laughter from his heart, and generosity from his spirit.

Symbolically, Prof Tamuno was one of the few lines in the colours of rainbow, the arch in the middle that formed in the sky for us to see and admire. He constituted a shield linked with the cosmos, the extraordinary being of colours, dispersed by the sun’s light, blessed by water droplets from the far sky. We cannot chase the rainbows, as they are too far high in the sky, but Baba Tekena Tamuno brought the lines and colours closer to us, making them reachable and touchable, and ever projecting as well as displaying his light and sunshine.

He was not easy to imitate, and impossible to clone, for no one can ever garner the rainbow of medals that adorned his walls; and no one can ever come close to the rainbow of love that filled his heart and chest. We have to keep struggling to reach the silver-lining of his illustrious clouds and the gold located at the end of his rainbow. I won’t even try, for his resilience is uncommon, his patience is legendary, and I am too small to learn at his feet.

A master of long narratives, his nuanced conclusions were openended, elastic, and never threatening. Our personality can be embedded in our intellectual projects and self affirmation, as it is possible to link Wole Soyinka’s iconoclasm to Ogun, the Yoruba god of iron. Prof

Tamuno was probably seeking to imitate some aged saints or, like a riverine man, he was guided by the calmness of the sea. The rough waves possibly frightened him, and he rather stayed at the banks. That calmness of the sea crystalised into a “Tekena formation” that became defined as the “Tamuno’s humility.”

There was one Saint Humility during the European Medieval Ages, a real saint, not an imaginary one. In fact, I am suspicious that Prof Tamuno, at one time or the other, might have read about this saint!

For, as those who knew him well, as I did, would attest to, he had multiple faces to his personality: one face that looked to spiritual forces, humbling himself before God and His agents. Grace becomes superior to one’s achievements, as Prof Tamuno magnified his own limitations. But there was also the levelling equality with fellow men, in which he constantly lowered his being and self in relation to his colleagues, superiors, and subordinates.

Being agreeable is no sign of weakness. The definition of a place in history, in space and time, is a recognition of one’s influence.

Walking gently, to avoid hubris, does not compromise pride. Recording a life history devoid of narcissism is no limitation to being grounded in humilitas. As one thinks of all of these unique qualities, what comes to mind is the Tamuno magic!

Prof Tamuno’s writing and lifestyle became the way to encode the spirit of humilitas, a careful use of oneself to teach practical ethics. I visited his house at Ibadan where he wore his simple top and shorts with many pockets, showing me his plants, his fruits, and his seeds. On one occasion in 2005, in the company of Prof Chris Ogbogbo, the amiable Head of the History Department and Prof Ademola Dasylva, both of the University of Ibadan, Prof Tamuno tried to recruit us into his way of thinking and lifestyle, warning us to be cautious, to exercise restraint, to cultivate wisdom. He invited me to dinner the next day, an appointment that I was unable to keep, thus denying myself of valuable fatherly lessons.

As younger scholars, the moment we entered our car, we were united in our conversations, engaged in comparing Prof Tamuno to another professor we visited before him, who was full of arrogance and vain words; we chose instead to praise Prof Tamuno’s wisdom. He was modest in prosperity, honourable in status, and graceful in moderate opulence. The visitation, one of many, triggered a series of reflections in me: the Kantian formulation of linking truth-telling with humility; and the Jesusian formulation of death and agony as sacrifice and redemption.

If the great Prof Tamuno learned from history, and he prospered by it, let us learn from him as well. In violating the tenets of his modesty and humility, I want to create a template for the Tamuno model of living: love Nigeria; read and cultivate skills; use talents; promote virtues; be meek; think of and appreciate others; make your ego small to realise your true humanity and place in the universe; and appreciate your smallness, but remain steadfast and true to your principles!

Nietzsche, the philosopher, will quibble with my generosity, for he sees humility not as a virtue but as a weakness, a strategy of survival, deployed by the weak to minimise the damage done by the strong, the Übermensch. Prof Tamuno would

be a dysfunctional element in the pool that Nietzsche studied made a study of. To the contrary, Prof Tamuno recognised my own talent and was in praise of it, just as he recognised the talents of others.

He did not deny others their honour, even when he was unjustly attacked. He did not build a cult of individualism and never asked anyone to worship him.

Our star has relocated, not extinguished: you and I are like dust, insignificant, but hopeful: hopeful that what he wanted, a peaceful and united Nigeria, will surely eventually be created.

Professor Tamuno, sleep well, the great one, and permit me to sing a dirge: ‘The honey eater Looks not at the edge of the axe The astute trader Bothers not with the din of the marketplace The egg lover Regards not the anus of the hen Thirsty throat befriends weeping palm tree Stretch out your calabashes I have poured libation Come join the spree Baba, rejoice, for you are already fit to receive grace: Poet, sing your song To the resonant din of the bell Ko ko, ko ko, ko ko, ko ko At its instance, the rhumba Là là, ko ko, là là, ko ko The earth must open for the earthworm Là là ko ko fè fè, là là ko ko fè fè The potter must get her clay And the painter his colors With a face and nose to the ground The writer surely must find his words To make flow the rivers of ink Là là, là là, là là, là là Là là, ko ko, là là ko.’

Prof Tamuno, I offer a promise: we will keep history alive: If we stay alive, songs and drama will come from Mouths of truth that seek no rewards enduring pain without any gain.

Great one, we will serve others as a constant reminder of your humility and greatness: Judge us: this is all that you know Condemn us: the passion of your spirit We forgive: when we cross the passage of Time, asking questions: Were you with us in the grasslands?

Who laughed with us in the savannah?

Who cried in the forest?

Did you hear the story before the stream?

What did we say at the bank?

Did you cross the river with us?

Sir, be assured, we will descale our obsequiousness but enscale our memory of you: Flourish Greenfingers Like the cornstalk Rising in its season Flourish, Greenfingers The years of your triumph Call for celebration The labour of truth Is evergreen.

Flourish, Greenfingers The one Who has earned His purple robe Swirl, Sway, Swirl Greenfingers Ignore the heads in the clouds The sure footed Must reap bountiful harvest Swirl, Sway, Swirl, Greenfingers With royal gait As you arrive to dine At His pavilioned regal tables.

•Prof Falola is of The University of Texas at Austin, US.

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109 authors for NLNG Literature Prize

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O fewer than 109 writers from Nigeria and other countries have sentered for this year’s Nigeria Prize for Literature, sponsored by Nigeria LNG Limited. The focus is on Children’s Literature.

Considered Africa’s most prestigious literary award because of its uncompromising insistence on excellence and the US$100,000 cash prize, the NLNG sponsored initiative rotates yearly among four literary categories of prose fiction, poetry, drama and children’s literature.

Contestants send in their works, which are assessed by a panel of judges, comprising eminent literary scholars. The judges’ decisions and reviews are overseen by an advisory committee of equally distinguished academics and literalists.

On the panel for this year’s edition are Prof Uwemedimo Enobong Iwoketok of the University of Jos, the chairperson, Prof Charles Bodunde of the Univer- • Prof Iwoketok, Eresia-Eke and Prof sity of Ilorin, and the University of Maiduguri’s Dr. Razinat MoLITERATURE hammed.

Members of the Advisory Board for the Prize are Emeritus Prof sor of Children’s Literature at Ayo Banjo, Prof Ben Elugbe and Newcastle University in the United Kingdom and past PresiProf Jerry Agada.

Kimberly Reynolds, a Profes- dent of the International Research Society for Children’s Literature,

Ayo Banjo

is this year’s International Consultant to the Advisory Board.

Submissions are examined and shortlisted based on a number of considerations including editorial excellence, creativity and story plot with the aim of select-

ing a final winner who will then be publicly announced in October each year, to coincide with the date NLNG shipped its first liquefied natural gas cargo.

“We have received a hundred and nine books as submissions

by Nigerian authors to compete for this year’s prize in children’s literature. I can only wish all the authors vying for the honour, every success and the best outcome possible in the exercise,” said Kudo Eresia-Eke, NLNG’s General Manager External Relations.

The last winner of the literature prize in the children’s literature category was Adeleke Adeyemi in 2011, for The Missing Clock,while Mabel Segun and Professor Akachi Adimora-Ezeigbo were joint winners for the Reader’s Theatre and My Cousin Sammyin 2007.

This year’s award for children’s literature will run concurrently with the prize for literary criticism, also sponsored by NLNG, and for which only one entry was received.

Introduced in 2012, the literary criticism category is a yearly award and carries a monetary value of N1million.

Elsewhere in education, Nigeria LNG in March 2014 publicly announced a N2 billion University Support Programme (USP). Under the corporate social responsibility initiative, Nigeria LNG is currently sponsoring the building and equipment of engineering laboratories in six universities across Nigeria’s geo political zones as part of its support to teaching, research and capacity building.

Taiwo Iyere Osiname, popularly known as Shekinah (God’s divine presence), speaks of her marriage and music career in this interview with TOYIN OLASINDE .

Music and my life

H

OW did you come about the name Shekinah?

Shekinah is a Hebrew word, which means “divine presence of God”. It is the name given to me after my encounter with the Lord few years back when I was at a stand still of my life. And all things that represented shame was my closet associate and I was faced with many challenges that made me feel God can never use me again in his vainyard. But God changed my shame to fame.

I have always had passion burning inside of me to reach out to the people, expressing God’s love through songs and also to lead people into God’s presence. Having done a couple of studio recording in the time past, I finally released a debut single a few month ago titled Not Enough , which has been a tremendous blessing to the body of Christ. It is currently enjoying airplay on several radio stations.

My fulfillment comes from the testimonies shared by people whose lives have been transformed by my music. The official video of my single is set for release soon and the debut album would be released before the end of the year.

Under whose ministration did you have the encounter with Holy Spirit?

Funny enough it was not under any pastor’s ministration, it was just between myself and God alone in my room because then, I hardly go out of my apartment in order to avoid people asking me questions about the challenges of my life. But on that fateful day, while I was singing worship songs to God and all I felt was that I was totally lost in spirit and began to feel divine presence of God in my room. And all I could hear that very day was Taiwo am going to change you, change your name

INTERVIEW and even change everything around you for good, just rightly there I started crying that God could this ever be? And that was how my life was broken down and remolded for God. What has been the secret of your musical career and how will you describe the journey so far?

Actually, I will say God has been the secret and a strong pillar to my success because my journey so far was full of mysteries and many ups and downs, because I started singing and going to studio at the age of 10. I was born into a Christian family where the fear of God was all my parents at all time teach us, and which really helped me stand through my tough time and that took me this far.

I got most of my song inspiration through my past experience, which always lead me to praise God What should people expect from your next album?

For the upcoming album it going to be wonderful and will be tracks that years after people will still be going back to it.

How have you been coping with your office work and your music career?

I must first of all give thanks to God who has always been the author and finisher of my faith and thanks to my wonderful husband and the glorious children God gave me for their understanding and support at all time. Even when am hooked up with some things they are still always there for me, I thank God for the kind of job He gave me because I have been able to manage both together without any conflict.

Between your job and your music career, which is more fulfilling?

I love the both but I feel more fulfilled in my music career because it always brings smiles to my face

any time am singing.

Why did you choose to sing gospel song instead of any other?

Just like everyone know gospel means Good news and to anyone who hear of good news it always brings joy to the heart of people, so I choose to sing gospel in other to make people feel the happiness in Christ.

Where did you get your song inspirations from?

I must say I get my inspiration from God and also from beautiful things that happens around me, and from my past experience because anytime I look at God faithfulness to me I get inspired.

Why did you choose to sing worship songs and not praise songs?

I choose to sing worship because I saw a longing for worship in the body of Christ. People really love to praise and dance and not remembering that the two need to be balanced both praise and worship is what God wants and that why I have choose to be a worshipper.

When is your album due?

My first album will be launched soonest, which I could assure you that it going to be life touching album and will always be album people will always at all time want to listen to.

What period of your life has been unforgettable?

It was in a concert at Ile-Ife when together with my band we went for a show only for them not to show any concern, not to even talk of ministering there after all the time we wasted in order to make it to Ile-Ife from Lagos. It is really an unforgettable day for me, I will not like to mention the concert because it always a big concert organize yearly in Ife. Which is your happiest day?

The happiest day of my life was when God change what was about bringing reproach to God’s name in my life to testimony. It was when I gavedth birth to my first child and

• Shekinah

only to see that he couldn’t open his at all for a month just more or less like a blind child, but God of wonders opened his eyes to see for the first time ever during the second month of delivery. That real marked the happiest moment in my life.

So far, it’s been God’s grace and favour at work. To get an excellent production you have to give it your best especially financial and as a gospel artist you don’t readily get sponsors compared with the secular world.

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22, 2015

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The Midweek Magazine

E-mail:- ozoluauhakheme@yahoo.com

Prophetic declaration

BOOK REVIEW Title: Author: Reviewer: Pages:

L

IFE is a challenge; confront it, the maxim aptly advises. To live life in the illusion that there would not be challenges is as good as assuming that life can go on without oxygen. But confronting life’s challenges without adequate divine inspiration may lead to frustration and despondency. Make no mistake about it; inspiration is the backbone of any confrontation that would bring result.

In his characteristic manner of being on-point in his writings, Ayodeji Ayopo’s new book titled ‘The spring of inspiration’ is timely and re-assuring, moreso when the dwindling economic situation of the country is making the heart of many to be ‘feverish’ and ‘low’.

Stylishingly packaged with accompanying book divider ribbon, the book might be mistaken for the Holy Bible from a distance. The 366-page hard cover pocket size book takes readers through 365 days of any year with nugget and insightful prophetic declaration that stand as motivation in the face of whatever challenge each day of the year might birth.

Though not encumbered with Biblical references, but one cannot miss the point

that the writer is clear with the fact that God remains the ultimate source of strength in the face of challenges of life.

Expectedly, the book affirms the supremacy of almighty God, and is explicit enough as to the fact that God is able to lift man beyond and above challenges that might be confronting him. Undoubtedly, the writer in a subtle manner crusade the position that light must come at the end of every tunnel.

Each chapter is dedicated to each day of

Proudly Nigeria

D

ream Chasers is an anthology of short stories by different writers, however, in its diversity; the stories are relatively

close to the Nigerian experience through the names, locale and themes. The seasoned writers wrote wonderful pieces in few words and each storyline cannot be easily determined by the reader because of the heavy use of suspense.

Major Nigerian cities mentioned in the anthology include Ibadan and PortHarcourt in Camouflage; Nsukka, Orba, Onitsha in the Magic Ring; Iseyin, Okeho and Oyo in the Great Discovery; Marina, Lagos in Love on the Marina; Ile-Ife, Onitsha, Surulere, Lagos in Tough Guys write poetry; Bere, Ibadan in the House that Hunger Built. Other locations mentioned in the book include USA, South Africa, Paris and Zimbabwe.

The Nigerian content of the book is found in the themes of each story except in How I met Steve Biko and What Would Saffron Do?The themes include: deception, intricacies of intercultural marriage, armed robbery, single parenthood and depression in Camouflage; Incest, Western influences are the evident in The Little Girl with Bussing Breasts and a Bubble Gum Laugh; Insecurity, Insurgence, HIV/AIDS, Death

BOOK REVIEW Dream Chasers (New Nigerian Stories) Reviewer: Olutayo Irantiola Publisher: Nelson Publishers Title:

of Neighbour, Information shared via Social Media were mentioned in The Cur-

the year. And the general concern of man in his frantic effort to succeed is carefully taken care of. Is there any man, overtly and covertly, who is not concerned about breakthrough, success, fear of failure, storms of life, purpose, helper, sustenance, fulfillment, God’s presence, limitation, protection, tomorrow, guidance etc? These inner cries of many hearts are well addressed with prophetic insight.

It is said language is the vehicle of thought. Though ability to wave thoughts into words is not common, but Ayodeji was able to articulate and convey his thoughts in fluid and flowing manner.

His diction is simple enough to engage and connect with all strata of literate minds. Equally, they are flowery, descriptive and call to action. The writer’s ability to craft word must have been informed by his background in Business Communication and Strategy as well as Public Relations, the fields he has chosen to practice as a seasoned professional.

The book is worth taking space in a serious library. It is more or less a daily companion that should actually form the content of any hand bag, be it male or female. tain.

Others are Voodooism, Gambling, Apprenticeship, Western education, Assumption, Religiosity explored in The Magic Ring; Traditions in The Great Discovery, Depression, Loss of a grown-child, Foreign education, dashed hope in Love on The Marina, Intertribal marriage, Affection in Too Much Pepper; Extra-marital affairs, Reminiscence in “Fur Elsie”.

Additional themes in the book include Fraud, Impersonation, Disgrace, Financial challenge as reflected in Double Wahala; Joy of reunion, joblessnesness, desire to travel abroad, daring nature, love in Tough Guys Write Poetry. The House that Hunger Built is related to the tall Yoruba narrative similar to the Amos Tutuola’s style of Africanism.

The other two stories have African themes such as Xenophobia, Supporting acquaintance, bribery, doggedness, professional knowledge and assault in How I met Steve Biko while suspicion, unaccomplished mission, despotic leadership in What Would Saffron Do? The language of the text is lucid and concise. Interestingly, the text is domesticated because Pidgin is infused into the book and this makes the book relate closely with Nigerian readers. There are few errors in the book, however, it might be limited to the particular copy, which are negligible.

The book is largely and proudly Nigerian. It is a way of exporting our literary culture and nuances to other cultures and countries. The book is another distinct piece from Nigerian writers.

A

Africa as well as showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Africa. Luckily this is the focus of our productions for this period.

Using the performing arts to resolve conflicts and promote peace. That is what we tried to achieve with ‘Ajoyo’ and then ‘Spectacle’ which we just staged. So we have worked on a package based on this theme which we will be showcasing at the festival’’.

The Troupe is expected back on Sunday April 26, but Adejuwon hinted that he would not return with the delegation as he is billed to travel to Brazil to sign a memorandum of understanding that will facilitate co-production in the area of performing arts between Nigeria and Brazil.

Artist mentors students

By Udemma Chukwuma

PROGRAMME

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AST year’s winner of the National Art Competition Mr Erasmus Onyishi has urged fine art students of the University of Lagos (UNILAG), to remain steadfast and focused as challenges are inevitable in the art field.

He urged them to start producing works while in school as the money they make will take some burdens off their parents. shoulders.

He also encouraged them to create artworks even if the works are not bought because “The time will come when someone will discover you.”

Onyishi spoke during a mentorship programme organised by the African Artists’ Foundation (AAF) during its second edition of Meet the Artist. The event took place at the Creative Art Department of UNILAG. He told the students that producing outstanding works and discovering their strength are some of the ingredients that will make them standout as the art industry is very competitive.

“If there are 100 artists in Nigeria, only 20 are practicing, others do other jobs. It is only the dogged ones that succeed.”

Sharing how he was able to succeed in school without depending on his parents, he said: “Art was perceived as luxury, and in order to foot my university education, I produced art objects within the understanding and patronage of the common man. I predominantly made carved wall clocks, mirrors, stools and chair at this stage.” Onyishi called this era of his career, “From Hand to Mouth-surviving the challenges of being independent.

Onyishi is known for his use of waste to create beautiful artworks. Line, Patches and Pathos according to him explore the ironies between facts and representations, like the refuse (plastic waste) that now in use (work of art). “Plastic waste is my principle medium. Plastic wastes are the refugees, the used and abused useless ones, the victims of violence-induced displacement, which I recover and entrust with a visual eloquence to enjoy the freedom of speech. Just like the irony of harmful beauty in the images of diseases viewed from a microscope, the killer is beautiful. Thus beauty is relative and could have ugliness as its vapour trial.

“My earliest works were functional and utilitarian. Such is still silent in my practice till date.

He fell in love with art when he came in contact with “Uche” and he left his first love, Law, for Fine Art. “Uche read sculpture and teaches the same at his almameta, The University of Nigeria, Nusukka (UNN). I assisted in different levels of his practice during his undergraduate days. This must have triggered my artistic traits,’ he told the students. “I willingly joined in doing what I love. I gave up my ambition to read Law and took to art.”

Onyishi studied sculpture at the University of Nigeria. He has participated in more than thirty exhibitions both locally and internationally. He is one of the earliest exponents of Video Art in Nigeria. He has also won many awards including the National University Commission (NUC) for Research and Development in the Humanities. He is currently teaching Sculpture at the Federal University of Lafia, Nasarawa State.

POEM

Insurgency Impasse

By Olamilekan Andu

National Troupe for Festival of Drums in Egypt DELEGATION of the National Troupe of Nigeria and officials of the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and National Orientation has for the International Festival for Drums and Traditional Arts holding in Cairo, Egypt. It is organised by the Arab Republic of Egypt with the theme Drums Dialogue for Peace.

Artistic Director of the National Troupe Mr Akin Adejuwon, who is leader of delegation, said shortly before the Troupe’s depature last weekend.... for the week long festival that the artiste would showcase a special production of drums.

He said: ‘’I understand that this is the third edition of the festival and it is aimed at promoting peace and unity in Africa and addressing the spate of terrorism in

The spring of inspiration Ayodeji Ayopo Femi Akinwande 60

T

• Adejuwon

HE plangent vociferation Of the Northeasterner torments my soul.

My sleep has taken flight For the anguish of Boko Haram victims.

My nights have been consumed by the distant wailings Of orphans living with strange families My humanity has been violated by the slaughtered innocence Of hapless girls dispersed asunder by brainwashed ragtag terrorists.

My heart bleeds for youths running errands in Sambisa Forest For the abductors of their future.

My days are pensive with unanswered queries About who is in charge in my country.

I have grown weary of fanciful peroration Of government officials: ‘we’ll soon end insurgency’.

The taste of lies must be sweet In the ears of the conscienceless.

Who is enjoying the perfidious oration Of the godless politician dancing Azonto On the graves of his people?

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22, 2015

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PHOTO OF THE WEEK

FEEDING NIGERIANS TO VOTE Big Show preparing a meal for one of her customers during the just-concluded general elections at Ifako, Lagos.

PHOTO: EVELYN OSAGIE

‘Living Legend is no political project’

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T is becoming tougher getting a Nigerian to be honoured as a living legend because many do not meet the criteria, the project initiator, Mr Olu Ajayi, has said.

“This year, we are still searching for who deserves to be honoured as a living legend. However, we are considering notable Nigerians such as former Secretary General of Commonwealth Chief Emeka Anyaoku, Emeritus Bishop of Lagos Cardinal Olubunmi Okogie; General Overseer of Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, among others,”, he said.

Ajayi, who spoke to Arts Writers at his Onikan Studio in Lagos, said the choice is not influenced by political considerations but mainly by the positive contributions of the selected personality to Nigeria. He said that Living Legend project does not consider any political balancing in the choice of legends to be honoured. He stressed that the project started in 2008 to ‘record in our time, those that we encountered and who impacted and contributed to the growth of the society and humanity’.

He noted that a coffee table-book containing all the drawings and paintings as well as contributions from art historians and scholars would be published soon. Past

By Ozolua Uhakheme Assistant Editor (Arts)

STUDIOTALK legends documented are Omo N’Oba Nedo Uku Akpolokpolo, Erediauwa Oba of Benin; Prof. Yusuf Grillo; Prof. Wole Soyinka; Prof. Bruce Onobrakpeya, Prof.

John Pepper Clark and General Yakubu Gowon.

According to Ajayi, his studio is working with some Nigerian artists in Diaspora for a painting workshop as part of activities to keep the artists community vibrant and productive. He, however, lamented the lack of proper museum of modern art in the country saying it is high time politicians addressed the fundamental issues challenging the culture sector. This dearth of relevant infrastructure in the sector, he said, has denied artists adequate space to showcase their works of art, which would have impacted on the tourism growth.

“This will serve as a focal point to generate employment, enhance education opportunity for the youths and promotion of tourism destinations. Another aspect is the provision of artists with seed money to grow their creative industry. The creation of Artists District for the development

•Ajayi

of a robust sector is not out of place,” he said.

He blamed lack of political will on the part of government not to appreciate the relevance of arts to national development. He noted that it is a misnomer for people to think art is for the elites, adding that a visit to a modern museum provides inspiration and kills boredom.

Ajayi said the seeming low patronage of art

by most people is a function of balancing up economic reality.

Ajayi said that patronage of visual arts has improved but not yet at the level ‘we hope to reach’. “There are more private art galleries, growing army of collectors and more exhibitions. Art collection is no more diplomats’ dominated. However, art is still a luxury item to many,’’ he said.

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BUSINESS

Raise gas price to bridge $55b funding gap, says Oando chief

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IGERIA has to raise its gas prices to attract an estimated $55 billion investment needed to plug persistent local shortages, the Nigerian Gas Association (NGA) said yesterday.

Its President, Bolaji Osunsanya, said a government increase of gas prices in August last year for power plants to $2.50 for 1,000 cubic feet from about $0.50 isn’t enough.

Osunsanya, who is also the

Managing Director, Oando Gas & Power Ltd., said these investments were needed to explore for more gas, set up five processing facilities at about $2 billion each and develop domestic distribution channels.

International oil companies (IOCs) which had been exportfocused due to low domestic gas prices fixed by the government, have agreed to sell off $10 billion of assets over the past three years, according to Bloomberg Intelligence.

Those assets are largely being taken over by local companies, such as Seplat Petroleum Development Co. and Midwestern Oil and Gas Co. Ltd. Oando’s $1.65 billion acquisition of ConocoPhillips’s Nigerian oil and gas assets in June made it the country’s biggest indigenous gas producer, with a production of more than 50,000 barrels of oil equivalent.

“We should incentivise people with the best reward and encourage people to come

into the fold. The strategicness of gas is what I wish Nigeria would take more seriously,” he said.

Chairman, Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), Dr. Sam Amadi, lamented that the electricity industry is being hindered by producers’ inability to raise finance and natural gas shortages, curbing companies’ capacity to boost investment in output thus plunging the country into daily blackouts.

Head, Energy Research at Ecobank Transnational Inc., Dolapo Oni, said the gas sector has not been given the desired attention. He said: “Nigeria hasn’t given its gas sector the attention it should.

From the domestic side of things, gas can transform the power sector.”

While Nigeria was the world’s fourth-biggest exporter of liquefied natural gas in 2012, it is struggling to meet local demand for the fuel used by plants that generate

at least 70 per cent of the country’s electricity needs. The country, which holds Africa’s biggest gas reserves of more than 180 trillion cubic feet (Tcf), is expanding pipeline networks so that they can service power plants and industries and not just exports.

“We should encourage more exploitation to bring out the gas for domestic (use). A lot of it needs to come quickly because there’s an existing power side that requires a lot of gas,” Osunsanya said.

NERC may approve new tariff for TCN

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HE Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commis sion (NERC) may approve a cost-reflective tariff for the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN).

Its Chairman, Dr. Sam Amadi, who broke the news said as soon as the government reforms the corporate governance of the TCN, it would have cured its lack of investaible fund and guaranteed sustainable expansion of transmission services in the country.

Amadi said: “Once we reform the corporate governance of TCN and provide it with a cost-reflective wheeling charge, then we have cured its perennial lack of investible fund and guaranteed sustainable expansion of transmission services.”

He said the commission is planning radical solutions to tackle the transmission challenges in the electricity market, adding that plans are underway for government to unbundle the TCN into two distinct firms: Transmission Service Provider (TSP) and Independent System Operator (ISO).

“We have already secured a technical paper on this and the commission has the commission has asked its internal technical committee to undertake comparative jurisdictional research to compare models from similar and different electricity markets

From John Ofikhenua, Abuja

across the world.

“After the report of the committee we will conduct public consultation to ascertain the views of other stakeholders. Our mind is drifting towards having a non-profit ISO to be jointly owned and funded by all generators and distributor in the market.

“This saves government from using its public sector borrowing or budget to fund expansion in transmission services. Everything will be financed by the market and there will still be no service failure. That is one the benefits of some of NERC’s bold interventions. They are creating financial viability and service improvement with less and less of public sector financing. This is a huge relief in these days of lean revenue.”

According to him, following the commercially attractive gas price and the flag-off of the Transition Electricity Market (TEM) that now makes all electricity market value chain bankable, the suppliers will now enter into gas supply agreements that make it mandatory for them to supply gas.

With the contracts, said the chairman, the suppliers would become liable should they refuse to supply gas.

Dangote sponsors Kaduna Trade Fair THE Kaduna State Chamber of Commerce Industry, Mines and Agriculture (KADCCIMA) has described Dangote Group’s sponsorship of the upcoming 36th Kaduna International Trade Fair (KITF) as yet another huge contribution to the Nigerian economy by a business entity.

The fair is coming as the Dangote conglomerate scaled up its business frontiers which also tallies with the fair’s theme of: “Promoting Domestic Production for National Sustainable Economic Development.”

Director-General of the Chamber, Usman Saulawa, said the economy will be bolstered as a broad spectrum of local business groups, investors and traders from at least nine countries will be represented.

“I want to correct you. The Chamber does not have a good relationship with the Dangote Group. It has an excellent relationship with the company. The Dangote Group has always supported us right from time,” he said.

He said the Group will be one of the biggest partners of the Chamber at the fair that opens April 24 and closes May 3.

President of the Chamber, Dr Abdul Alimi Bello said: “The success history of the KITF will never be completed without mentioning the contribution of the Dangote Group,” he said.

According to him, this year, the Dangote pavilion and products are expected to add great value as the flagship of the fair.

A statement signed by the Dangote Group’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Anthony Chiejina, said the Group is sponsoring the fair as part of its determination to support the economy and make it a hub for trade in Africa.

He urged participants to visit the Dangote pavilion to take advantage of the specially packaged and discounted products that will be on display.

The fair, according to the KADCCIMA, will be officially opened by President Goodluck Jonathan.

• From right: Speaker, House of Representatives and Governor–elect, Sokoto State, Hon Aminu Tambuwal, Chairman of Nahco Aviance, Mallam Suleiman Yahyah and MD/CEO, Mr. Norbert Bielderman, during a courtesy call on Tambuwal by the nahco’s directors in Sokoto... yesterday.

Power: LASG generates 47.5Mw in six years

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HE Lagos State govern ment said it has gener ated 47.5 megawatts (Mw) of electricity through five Independent Power Plants (IPP) in the last six years.

The state Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Mr Taofiq Tijani, who spoke during a briefing in Alausa, Ikeja, yesterday, said the first IPP tagged: Akute Power Plant, with total capacity of 12.16Mw, was built and inaugurated in 2010, while the Island Power Project with 10Mw capacity was inaugurated in 2011.

According to him, the Alausa Power Plant, with capacity of 10.4Mw, was inaugurated in 2013 while the

Mainland Power Project, with total capacity of 8.8Mw, was inaugurated last year.

He said: “Early this year, we (government) inaugurated Lekki Peninsular IPP, which also has total capacity of 8.5 Mw. All together, we are generating 47.5 Mw of electricity in Lagos.”

The commissioner said the facilities power Akute and Jim Intakes; Akute and Iju Head Work, Lagos House; Marina General Hospital; Lagos High Courts and Public Lightings.

“Others are Alausa Secretariat, LTV, Radio Lagos, Printing Corporation, Police Command, LASUTH, Ikoyi and Victoria Island Water Works, Lekki-Ikoyi Bridge and the street lamps within

the secretariat,” he said.

He added that the ministry was the only one in Nigeria to have the most aggressive energy development agenda in the country.

He said the ministry was committed to strategically increasing power supply in a sustainable and socio-economic manner.

The commissioner said the ministry had also collaborated with the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC)/Pipelines and Products Marketing Company (PPMC) and other Federal Government agencies to ensure a safer and healthier environment in communities within petrol pipeline right of way (RoW).

Tijani said the ministry had also assisted the Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR) to curb illegal activities of petrol filling station operators and gas plants in the state.

Tijani stressed that to encourage the use of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), the ministry had begun free distribution of 3kg and 6kg cylinders to all councils in the state.

The commissioner said the ministry had, so far, distributed 20,000 cylinders to Lagos residents under the scheme.

He said through the Eko Gas Scheme, the state had made LPG the fuel of choice for domestic use

NCAA restores Discovery Air’s AOC

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HE Director-General, Nigerian Civil Avia tion Authority (NCAA), Capt. Muhtar Usman, has lifted the suspension placed on Discovery Air. The regulator has, therefore, restored the carrier’s Air Operators Certificate (AOC).

In a letter sent to the airline’s management titled: “Notice of restoration of Air Operators Certificate”, which was signed by the director-general, explained that the decision to restore the carrier’s AOC was predicated on the satisfactory conclusion of a Financial Health Audit of the airline.

In the aftermath of the audit, the management of the airline has demonstrated encouraging commitment to offset the outstanding staff salaries by April 30, 2015.

By Kelvin Osa-Okunbor

In addition, workers sent on compulsory leave without pay have been recalled.

He said the NCAA is satisfied with the Letters of Credit from the airline’s financiers which had provided guarantee for its business in the long term.

“Therefore, in consideration of all the actions taken by the airline to address passenger complaints, the Authority, pursuant to Section 35(6) of the Civil Aviation Act 2006 hereby lifts the suspension of, and restores the airline’s AOC with effect from the date of receipt of this letter,” the letter read in part.

Capt. Usman, however, wishes to inform the airline that prior to commencement of flight operations, the authority shall carry out a mini audit of the airline to con-

firm the safety of its operations.

The NCAA, it was learnt, would inspect the two aircraft and facilities of Discovery Air ahead of commencement of operations.

The airline’s Chairman, Babatunde Babalola, said arrears of workers’salaries have been paid , even as the airline is having discussions with foreign partners willing to invest over N4billion into the carrier.

The NCAA had said it carried out a review of the operations of some domestic airlines after which letters of warning or suspension of AOC were served on defaulters.

It alleged that Discovery Air failed to carry out certain corrective actions within one week from the 1st to 7th of January this year as raised in an earlier letter to the operator.

“Consequent upon the inability to address the issues raised, the Authority in its 8th of January, 2015 letter to the operator declared that pursuant to Section 35[2] and [3][b] of the Civil Aviation Act 2006 and Part 1.1.3.3.3[a] [1] of the Nig. CARs 2009, hereby suspends the AOC of Discovery Airways Limited.

“The suspension takes effect from the 8th of January 2015, the date of the letter conveying the notice. This order would be in force pending the outcome of a comprehensive review of the Airlines operations to be carried out accordingly.”

Babalola said the regulatory agency erred with the suspension of itsAOC following the alleged maltreatment of its passengers last year.

54

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22, 2015

EQUITIES NIGERIAN STOCK EXCHANGE

DAILY SUMMARY AS AT 21-04-14

DAILY SUMMARY AS AT 21-04-14

SEC reduces transaction fee on bonds, others

S

ECURITIES and Ex change Commission (SEC) yesterday reduced the transaction fee on secondary market transactions involving government bonds, corporate debentures, money market instruments and other derivatives by 5,000 per cent.

The reduction is part of efforts by the apex capital market regulator to boost secondary market retail trading in fixed-income securities.

In a circular made available yesterday, the Commission indicated that it has made an amendment on the fees on secondary market transactions involving Federal, State and Local Government bonds and debentures of public limited companies.

It added that the amendment also included money market products as well as

By Taofik Salako Capital Market Editor

other derivative products to be traded in the financial markets, particularly on SEC-registered platforms.

SEC-registered platforms currently included the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), NASD OTC Plc, FMDQ OTC Plc and Nigeria Commodity Exchange (NCX).

The applicable rate has been reduced from 0.1 per cent to 0.0002 per cent of secondary market transactions.

According to the amendment to Schedule 1 Part C number (4) of the consolidated SEC Rules and Regulations, the fees on Federal, State, Local Government bonds and debentures of public limited companies, money market instruments and all forms of derivative products, on all SEC-regis-

tered exchanges will be 0.15 per cent as registration fee for primary market and 0.0002 per cent for secondary market transaction.

Meanwhile, Nigerian equities closed on the negative yesterday with the benchmark index at the NSE closing lower by 0.62 per cent.

The decline depressed the average year-to-date return at the stock market to -0.43 per cent. The benchmark index, the All Share Index (ASI), closed lower at 34,507.85 points.

The decline was driven by widespread profit-taking transactions, especially within some highly capitalised stocks such as Lafarge Africa, Unilever Nigeria, Guinness Nigeria, Nigerian Breweries and Guaranty Trust Bank. Total turnover stood at 354.45 million shares worth N3.29 billion.

DAILY SUMMARY AS AT 21-04-15

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22, 2015

55

MONEYLINK

Mobile money operators now on NIBSS’ platform T

HE Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has said Mobile Money Operators (MMO) are required to henceforth, connect to the Nigeria Interbank Settlement System (NIBSS) otherwise called the National Central Switch (NCS) to ensure ease of communication for schemes in the system.

In a guideline for the sector released yesterday, the apex bank said a scheme operator can either be a bank or a licensed corporate organisation.

It said the NIBSS is responsible for connecting the various players in the financial system using various players such as banks, MMOs, non-banking financial institutions, payment

Stories by Collins Nweze

terminal providers, card acquirers, government institutions and their customers to send, receive and process funds, documents and other instruments electronically through its platform.

The apex bank said MMOs are the lead initiators for the mobile scheme and shall be responsible for ensuring that the various solutions and services within an approved mobile payment scheme meets the entire regulatory requirements as defined in this framework and as may be

specified from time to time.

The regulator said the MMOs shall be legally responsible and accountable to the CBN and the end user.

The CBN recognises that, with the evolution of the mobile money system , spin-off services would be identified by MMOs which can be outsourced to entities with specialised skills and resources to support such services in a more efficient and effective manner. The service providers may employ the infrastructures of the MMOs to provide services to the end users.

Ecobank boosts transactions with Rapid Transfer

E

COBANK Nigeria has promised to provide the much-needed ease of financial transactions during and after the third Okpekpe 10 kilometer road race scheduled for May 16th in Okpekpe town, in Edo State. It said it will do this via its Rapid Transfer.

The Rapid Transfer was also named the official money transfer service for the race, which is now an International Association of Athletics Federation (IAAF) Bronze Label Race expected to attract over 3,000 local and international professional athletes. Also sports enthusiasts from across the world are being expected.

Announcing the bank’s premium partnership in Lagos, its Deputy Managing Director, Tony Okpanachi, said the product is best suited for the competition that has grown to have global recognition.

According to him, the product is an innovative money transfer

services available within Nigeria and countries in Africa where the lender operates. “The service was conceived out of the need to provide quick, convenient, accessible, and reliable money transfer services for customers and non-customers of the bank.

“This is an Ecobank proprietary send and receive money transfer product available in all Ecobank branches in Nigeria. The product allows you to send and receive money where Ecobank has its footprint within Nigeria and in over 36 countries in Africa. It is our way of supporting this international race to ease the burden of fund transfer,” he added.

The race is organised by Pamodzi Sports Marketing, a leader in sports marketing, sponsorship, hospitality and rights acquisition business in conjunction with the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) and the Edo State government.

The previous editions of the race were dominated by East Africans, with Kenya’s Moses Masai winning the maiden edition while Ethiopia’s Teshome Asafan won the men’s title at the second edition and his country woman, Wuday Ayalew winning the women’s title.

•Ecobank Nigeria CEO Jibril Aku

Mobile money system refers to the various components required to deliver mobile money to the banking and non-banking community. The providers of these services and solutions shall be required to operate within the defined regulatory framework specified in this document and any other regulation/ guideline issued by the CBN. The CBN is responsible for defining and monitoring the mobile money systems in Nigeria.”The MMOs shall provide a detailed payments management process that covers the entire solution delivery, from user registration and management, agent recruitment and management, consumer protection/dispute resolution procedures, risk management

•CBN Governor Godwin Emefiele process to transaction settlement.

These processes shall cover the scope of the value chain across all the participants in the mobile money ecosystem.

CIBN wins right to host global banking institutes’confab

T

HE Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria has won the right to host the 22nd World Conference of Banking Institutes (WCBI).

The WCBI, which is a biennial conference for all the banking institutes across the globe commenced in Edinburgh Scotland, in 1975, as part of activities to commemorate the Centenary celebrations of the Institute of Bankers in Scotland.

In a statement, the institute said over 21 countries including the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Italy, South Africa, Sweden, Australia, France, India, Ireland, Bahamas, United Arab Emirates (UAE), Kenya among others, have hosted the event.

“The Institute was unanimously voted as the host for the 22nd World Conference of Banking Institutes in 2017, after a presentation to the delegates by Otunba (Mrs) Debola

Osibogun President/Chairman of Council, at the just concluded 21st edition of the WCIB Conference, in Seoul, South Korea, organised by the Korea Institute of Bankers,” it said.

She noted that this hosting right underscored the confidence of the banking institutes all over the world in the role and contribution of the Institute in ensuring high quality education and learning services for a safe and sound financial system in Nigeria and its leadership role among the banking institutes in Africa.

“We will also make our best effort in providing a world class arrangement for the conference which already has an all-inclusive planning and organising committee to work for the next two years. In no distant future therefore, we will unveil some of the programmes and activities lined up for the conference,” she assured.

MEMORANDUM QUOTATIONS AFRINVEST W. A. EQUITY FUND ARM AGGRESSIVE GROWTH BGL NUBIAN FUND BGL SAPPHIRE FUND CANARY GROWTH FUND CONTINENTAL UNIT TRUST CORAL INCOME FUND FBN FIXED INCOME FUND FBN HERITAGE FUND FBN MONEY MARKET FUND FIDELITY NIG FUND • UBA BALANCED FUND • UBA BOND FUND • UBA EQUITY FUND • UBA MONEY MARKET FUND

126.04 9.17 1.12 1.19 0.63 1.39 1,744.73 1,104.77 112.34 121.16 1.67 1.1978 1.3117 0.7319 1.1349

125.82 9.08 1.12 1.19 0.62 1.33 1,744.73 1,104.00 111.75 120.30 1.62 1.1912 0.7203 0.7203 1.1349

SYMBOL

O/PRICE

C/PRICE

CHANGE

PZ UBA MAYBAKER RTBRISCOE CUTIX GOLDBREW CAVERTON NPFMCRFBK 7UP NEIMETH

27.00 5.00 1.86 0.85 1.75 0.89 3.14 1.17 163.10 0.99

28.35 5.25 1.95 0.89 1.83 0.93 3.28 1.22 170.00 1.03

1.35 0.25 0.09 0.04 0.08 0.04 0.14 0.05 6.90 0.04

LOSERS AS AT 21-04-15

STANBIC NAHCO LIVESTOCK TRANSEXPR CADBURY COSTAIN DANGSUGAR WEMABANK UNILEVER ETI FIDELITYBK

O/PRICE 29.00 6.52 2.53 1.29 41.01 0.95 7.30 0.99 41.65 20.90 1.94

C/PRICE 27.55 6.20 2.41 1.23 39.20 0.91 7.00 0.95 40.01 20.10 1.87

FOREX RATES (NairaVs Dollar) April 1, 2015

Inflation: Febraury

8.4%

Monetary Policy Rate

13.0%

Foreign Reserves

$33.2b

Oil Price (Bonny Light/b)

$60.91

CHANGE -1.45 -0.32 -0.12 -0.06 -1.81 -0.04 -0.30 -0.04 -1.64 -0.80 -0.07

Interbank ($/N)

199.00

$1

Black Market ($/N)

215.00

$1

London Inter-bank Offered Rates (LIBOR)

Money Supply (M2)

GAINERS AS AT 21-04-15

SYMBOL

ECONOMIC INDICATORS

N16.42 trillion.

Credit to private Sector (CPS)

N17.2 trillion

Primary Lending Rate (PLR)

16.5%

Tenor 1 Month 2 Months 3 Months 6 Months 12 Months

March 31

April 1

Rate)%

Rate (%)

0.1735 0.2147 0.2615 0.3841 0.6709

0.1715 0.2108 0.2626 0.3857 0.6744

Nigerian Stock Market Indices NIGERIAN INTER-BANK OFFERED RATES (NIBOR)

Tenor

12-02-15 Rate (%) Rate (%) 13-02-15

Overnight (O/N)

14.683

76.583

1M

15.033

15.977

3M

15.809

17.177

6M

16.493

17.908

Transaction Dates

Statistics All Share Index Mkt Cap (NGN’bn) Deals Volume (mn) Value (NGN’mn)

19 Feb 29,282.04 9,770.36 3,385 564,28 6,087.80

20 Feb 29,383.93 9,804.36 3,714 377,75 6,568.66

GOVT. SECURITIES YIELD – SECONDARY MARKET

Tenor

Feb. 13, 2015

Rates

T-bills - 91

12.44

T-bills - 182

13.85

Amount

Amount

T-bills - 364

13.92

Bond - 3yrs

15.92

Offered in ($)

Sold in ($)

03/02/2015

500m

499.93m

3/12/2014

400m

399.97m

Bond - 5yrs

17.22

1/12/2014

350m

349.96m

Bond - 7yrs

16.59

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22, 2015

56

NEWS ‘Elections were free and fair’

Southeast APC canvasses votes for Okorocha

From Nwanosike Onu, Awka

HEAD of Saturday’s governorship rerun in Imo State, the Southeast zone of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has urged the people to vote Governor Rochas Okorocha for continuity.

The party’s Southeast spokesman, Mr. Osita Okechukwu, on behalf of the zone, appealed to the people to vote for Okorocha on Saturday.

“We urge the people of

T

HE Anambra Central People’s Coalition has refuted claims of electoral fraud by the National Chairman of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Chief Victor Umeh.

Led by the senatorial candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Chief Anayo Nweke, the group, despite losing, said the election was free, fair and credible.

Candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Uche Ekwunife, was declared winner of the election and was issued Certificate of Return by Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) last Friday.

Umeh filed his petition at the Elections Petitions Tribunal in Awka, last Saturday, citing irregularities and fraud in the election.

The group warned Umeh to desist from claiming victory on the pages of newspapers, adding that he should wait for the court’s decision.

According to Nweke, “some of us who contested the election had emulated President Goodluck Jonathan, Jimi Agbaje in Lagos, and others, by conceding defeat.

“We advise Umeh, in the interest of Anambra Central, to partner Ekwunife to lift the zone.

“Only God gives powers; apart from that, it was Ekwunife’s work that gave her that position. Therefore, we are not ready to question God’s decision”.

Odebunmi clocks 60

M

R Tokunbo Odebunmi, the permanent secretary, Project Monitoring Bureau in the Ogun State Governor’s Office, will be 60 tomorrow.

Odebunmi was managing director, Ogun State Property and Investment Corporation (OPIC). He is a member, Board of Trustees at Owu Baptist Church, Abeokuta.

A thanksgiving service will hold tomorrow at Owu Baptist Church, Totoro Abeokuta.

Ado-Ekiti chief’s mum for burial

T

HE funeral arrangements for Madam Felicia Fagbuaro, who died on March 5, has been released. She was 98.

The late Madam Fagbuaro is the mother of High Chief Francis Oladeji Fagbuaro, the Arowa of Ado-Ekiti.

Christian wake will hold on Friday at her Idemo, Ado-Ekiti.

Funeral service is slated for St. Patrick’s Catholic Cathedral, Agere, Ado-Ekiti on Saturday.

Entertainment of guests, according to a statement will hold at Christ’s School Playground, Ado-Ekiti.

Funeral for Arokoyo

T

HE family of Ologbonyo Arokoyo in Kabba, Kogi State, has announced the funeral arrangements of Madam Omodunbi Ologbonyo Arokoyo.

She was aged 115.

Madam Omodunbi would be buried in her compound, Odoafin Quarters, Kabba, on Friday. She is survived by four children, grandchildren and great-grand children.

A

From Chris Oji, Enugu

Imo to complete the work they have started, for a vote for Owelle Rochas Okorocha is a golden vote to retain the only egg Ndigbo has in the basket of the new Nigeria Muhammadu Buhari is constructing.

“Every other geopolitical zone has a governor from the APC, even Southsouth. We cannot be the only exception,” Okechukwu said.

The APC chieftain regret-

ted that Ndigbo lost the coveted prize of Senate President because Ndigbo put all its eggs in one basket - Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) - for no rational reason, and may also lose the speakership.

He wondered how Ndigbo would explain its neglect this time around when they had the opportunity to join the victory party.

“We know how influential the governors and their forum are. Therefore, can we

shoot ourselves in the foot by blandly voting for PDP? “Is it not shameful that the great Ndigbo, one of the tripods in our country, out of sentiment, is missing in the National order of precedence - President, Vice President, and Senate President?

“If care is not taken, we will also lose speaker and Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN). This lacuna makes it imperative for us to have one of our governors in the Progressives Governors Forum,” Okechukwu said.

Executive Secretary, Mushi Local Government, Mr Jide Bello (mddle) presenting a gift to the winner of Spelling Bee Competition in the local government, Master Oyeleye Olufemi of Igbo Owu Secondary School, With them are Head of Department, Education, Mushin Local Government Mrs Aminat Lawal (left) and State coordinator of theSpelling Bee competition, Mr Olalekan Iginla

Ebonyi chides Assembly over local govt accounts

E

BONYI State Government yesterday chided the State House of Assembly for ordering the freezing of the accounts of local government councils and the state’s joint accounts, saying it overstepped its boundary.

The Assembly had on Monday ordered the freezing of the accounts of the councils, citing massive looting of the treasury by council chairmen.

The state government said the House does not have the powers to freeze the accounts.

The Chief Press Secretary to Governor Martin Elechi, Dr Onyekachi Eni, in a release, urged the house to conduct its business with decorum and give peace a chance.

Eni said: “The attention of Ebonyi State Government has been drawn to some resolutions of the House of Assembly, seeking to freeze the accounts of Local Governments and Devel-

From Ogochukwu Anioke, Abakaliki

opment Centres; seeking to stop the sale of forms and allocation of stalls in the Abakaliki International Market, as well as repealing the Codified Laws of Ebonyi State, 2009.

“In view of the sensitive nature of the issues at stake, and the need to properly guide the concerned agencies and the public, the following clarifications are imperative: “The State Government has noted the resolutions of the House as reported in the media. The government is however, yet to be formally communicated of such resolutions in line with intra-governmental procedures.

“In the meantime, the House is reminded that resolutions are only advisory and persuasive, and have no force of law. Therefore, the implementation of any legislative

resolution is discretionary and at the pleasure of the executive arm of government.

“The House has no power to freeze the accounts of Local Governments, Development Centres, or any other government agency because such powers reside with the executive arm of government. It is only a court of law, with competent jurisdiction, that can order the freezing of any accounts of government or persons.

“The said resolution, being outside the range of its powers, is ultra vires and without effect.

Consequently, the Local Governments and Development Centres are hereby urged to ignore the resolution and carry on with their lawful businesses.

“The House also lacks the powers to stop the sale of forms for allocation of stalls at Ocho Udo International Market. It is noteworthy that the Martin Elechi administration initiated

the project in 2009 and has so far invested N18.3 billion in its development.

“So far, out of the 7,070 stalls, which is the full capacity of the market, about 5,600 stalls have been completed, while work is on-going on the remaining ones.

“The sales of forms for the allocation of stalls are for the already completed ones. Even at that, many state governments develop their markets on the basis of “build and operate” principle, whereby the traders bear the cost of construction.

“We remind members of the House and those concerned that even if the Elechi administration has only one day to run its full course, they still have a responsibility to accord the Governor, institutions and government agencies their respect and cooperation in the interest of peace, orderly transition and sustainable development of Ebonyi state”.

Abia rerun: INEC promises credible rerun

T

HE Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has assured the people of Abia State that it will address the political stalemate in the April 11 election.

INEC’s Director of Security Shittima Ngilada spoke yesterday in Abuja when he received a protesting group from Abia State, ‘The Concerned Abians for Good Governance’.

The group stormed INEC headquarters, chanting solidarity songs, and carrying placards, such as: “Manipulation of election is a fraud”; “INEC, let our votes count”; “INEC, ensure free and fair election in Abia”.

A leader of the protest, Jennifer Ukaobasi said the group expected INEC to do the right thing, saying INEC should stand by its earlier cancellation of votes in the

‘We want a level-playing field’ From Ugochukwu Ugoji-Eke, Umuahia

T

HE Deputy National Chairman of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Uchenna Okogbuo, has said the party is ready for Saturday’s governorship rerun in Abia State.

Okogbuo said all they ask for is a level-playing field and that officials be unbiased.

Speaking with reporters in Umuahia, Okogbuo said APGA would win the rerun because the people want change.

He said the party had information that thugs loyal to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) were going round, telling people to remain indoors. But he noted that the election would not be fought with knives, machetes and cudgels, “It is a war that is being fought with Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and ballot papers to push out bad government from our system.”

The deputy national chair thanked the people for voting for APGA and urged them to do same at the rerun.

From Vincent Ikuomola, Abuja

three disputed councils.

According to her: “Our grouse is this: the order that

election should not hold where there were no Card Readers was flouted. We have our proof which has been forwarded to INEC. “Yes for those three local governments, we are calling

for cancellation but if INEC wants a rerun, fine. The people who voted are not dead, they are still there, let us do a rerun.”

Ngilada assured the protesters that their petitions would be considered on its merit and solutions proffered at the end.

“I have been asked to talk to you, to assure you that the commission would love a credible election, and whatever your complaints are, we will look into it to see.

“If it is genuine we will take steps to correct it so that in future, we can be proud of what we have done.

“We don’t expect you to create problems but to support us so that we can serve Nigeria better.

“I want to assure you that your protest letter will not be thrown into the bin. Some of them have gone to the Chairman’s Office where it was acknowledged,” Ngilada said.

‘Chukwumerije, a presidential material’ From Nwanosike Onu, Awka

A

NAMBRA State Governor Chief Willie Obiano has described the late Uche Chukwumerije as a presidential material for Ndigbo that was not harnessed due to age factor.

He said the Abia-born political leader performed creditably at the Senate, where he served for three terms, describing him as a first-class senator.

“His was a life of public service. He was preoccupied with the fate of his nation and worked tirelessly to see it attain its full potential.

“He was not daunted by the difficulties; his faith in the possibilities of our national renewal was palpable.”

Obiano described the late comrade as a rare breed, adding that he was among the few to sustain differing positive qualities at the same time.

“He was a foremost intellectual who could also be simple and down to earth.

His erudition did not get in the way of his communication.

“Although a leader and elite, Uche saw himself as a member of the working class and treasured the comrade title. He was at once native and cosmopolitan.”

He said Chukwumerije’s pan–Igbo vision, which centered on unity and renaissance, had enduring relevance for the Igbo nation.

Minister commiserates with family From Ugochukwu UgojiEke, Umuahia

T

HE Minister of State for Defence, Col. Austin Akobundu (rtd), has commiserated with the family of Senator Uche Chukwumerije.

He expressed shock at the death of the ‘political icon and statesman par excellence’.

In a statement, Akobundu condoled with the Senate, the people and government of Abia State, as well as the family of Senator Uche Chukwumerije over the death of the quintessence leader, describing him as ‘a patriot worthy of emulation’.

“I received with shock, the passing on of an eminent statesman and political icon, Senator Uche Chukwumerije.

“Chukwumerije’s death is a personal loss to me because he was not only a shining star in the Southeast where I hail from, but a key player in the Nigerian project .

“His contributions in the Senate, where he served as Education Committee chairman, were legendary. Chukwumerije was a clear and respectable voice in the Senate.

“I condole with the Senate, the people and government of Abia State, as well as his family. It is a loss to Ndigbo, Nigeria and the African continent.

“I pray God to give those he left behind the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss,” Akobundu said.

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22, 2015

57

NEWS Jonathan ran down economy for six years, says Oshiomhole •‘Current debts make previous liabilities small’ From Tony Akowe, Abuja

E

•Oshiomole (second right); President, Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Aliyu Wabba (second left); NLC General Secretary, Peter Ozon-Esan (right) and Deputy Chairperson, Women’s Wing, Obyageli Eze, singing a solidarity song during the governor’s visit to NLC’s new executive at Labour House, Abuja...yesterday PHOTO: ABAYOMI FAYESE

Bayelsa PDP set to expel Paulker, others

A

MOVE by the Bayelsa State Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Governor Seriake Dickson to wield the big stick against party leaders suspected to have engaged in anti-party activities started yesterday.

It was gathered that PDP’s leadership was going after the senator representing Bayelsa Central, Emmanuel Paulker; President Goodluck Jonathan’s Special Assistant on Domestic Matters, Waripomowei Dudafa and other party bigwigs.

They were accused of working against the collective interests of the party in the March 28 and April 11 general elections.

It was learnt that Dickson and other party chieftains were uncomfortable with the allegations that Dudafa and Paulker sponsored candidates in other parties to contest against PDP’s in some constituencies.

Dudafa was said to have funded the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) and

•Party accuses chieftains of anti-party activities From Mike Odiegwu, Yenagoa

given the party’s tickets to aggrieved former PDP members.

One of the candidates reportedly sponsored by him, Ebiye Tarabina, defeated the PDP candidate, Ongore Ebikeme, to win the Kolokuma-Opokuma Constituency II’s House of Assembly election.

Indications that the governor and the party were going after the “erring members” emerged yesterday, following the inauguration of a special committee by the state government.

Members of the committee are: Acting State PDP Chairman Serena Dokubo-Spiff, as Vice Chairman and House of Assembly Speaker Konbowei Benson.

Others are: Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Prof Edmund Alison Oguru; Special Adviser on Political Matters,

Chief Fyneman Wilson; Principal Executive Secretary to the Governor, Deacon Markson Fefegha and Chief of Staff, Government House, Talford Ongolo.

Other members are chairmen of the eight local government areas, chairmen of restoration caucuses and Godspower Keku, PDP State Secretary, as Secretary.

It was gathered that the special committee was set up to examine the performance and conduct of the PDP and its leaders during the presidential, National and State Assembly elections.

The committee, which is chaired by Deputy Governor Gboribiogha John Jonah, was inaugurated at the Government House in Yenagoa. It has two weeks to submit an interim report to the government.

Dickson said it was also expected to determine and recommend the steps to take

against those who worked against the party’s interests during the elections.

The governor warned of the dire consequences awaiting any PDP member who engaged in anti-party activities.

He said there is need for discipline and loyalty to enable the party to succeed in its contests.

Dickson said reports at his disposal indicated that some members sabotaged the party’s interest instead of supporting its flag bearers.

He said: “We won the election, no doubt. But this party must continue to be a party of discipline and commitment.

One of the problems we have in the PDP, as a matter of fact, the main reason we even lost at the Federal level, among other things, is because of indiscipline and disloyalty to party. Party interest supersedes individual’s interest and agenda.”

‘Peterside’s stolen mandate’ll be retrieved at tribunal’

T

HE Greater Together Campaign Organisation (GTCO) of Dr. Dakuku Adol Peterside of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State has said its candidate’s stolen mandate by Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP’s) candidate, Nyesom Wike, will be retrieved at the elections petitions tribunal.

The GTCO, through its Director of Communications, Mrs. Ibim Semenitari, gave the assurance yesterday in Port Harcourt, the state capital.

It also concurred with the prayer of Wike, a former

From Bisi Olaniyi, Port Harcourt

Minister of State for Education, that in the case of the governorship election in Rivers, God would complete what He had begun.

GTCO said: “Wike made reference to God during a celebratory feast organised by the PDP in Port Harcourt, after he was presented with the certificate of return by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

“The GTCO notes that Wike’s claim to the gover-

norship of Rivers State is built on a faulty foundation and so cannot stand. We consider Wike’s wishful prayer that God should complete what He had begun an aberration and an insult to good conscience. But for us, since we believe that God thrives on justice, Wike’s prayer will certainly add to the speedy recovery of the mandate robbed off Rivers people through the barrels of gun and pellets of bullets.

“Besides Wike’s immoral claims, we were appalled at the calibre of guests we

sighted at that gathering. We saw suspected murderers, suspected kidnappers, ballot box snatchers and sundry criminals dancing on the graves of those they killed.”

The campaign organisation also cautioned the “governor-elect” against a shortlived celebration.

It assured that justice would prevail at the end of the race, in the true spirit of his prayer.

GTCO added: “While Wike and his cohorts celebrate, we suggest caution, as we hold a strong conviction that justice will prevail and the mandate he is parading will be retrieved.”

Shell: sabotage caused Bayelsa creek’s oil spill

T

HE Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) yesterday said the oil spill that occurred at its Kolo Creek Manifold in Ogbia Local Government Area of Bayelsa State on April 15 was caused by equipment sabotage.

SPDC’s spokesperson Joseph Obari said a report of the Joint Investigation Visit (JIV) showed that unknown persons cut out a section of

From Mike Odiegwu, Yenagoa

the metal protection to the manifold.

Obari said the saboteurs, according to the report, removed components of the pressure control system and opened the isolation valves, resulting in a spill.

The spokesman said the volume of spilled oil was estimated at 27 barrels,

which affected mainly the manifold grounds and part of the surrounding vegetation.

He explained that the investigation was led by the National Oil Spill Detection Regulation Agency, the Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR) with the representatives of Bayelsa State Ministry of Environment, host communities and SPDC

officials.

He said: “SPDC stopped the leak soon after it occurred, deployed effective containment and began the recovery of oil.

“No chemical dispersant has been applied. The containment and oil recovery activities involved the use of booms, absorbent pads and vacuum truck for evacuation of recovered oil.”

DO State Governor Adams Oshiomhole has accused the Goodluck Jonathan administration of running down the nation’s economy and plunging the country into huge foreign debts.

The governor spoke yesterday in Abuja when he visited the Dr. Aruba Wabba-led leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC).

He said the nation’s current debt profile has broken the records of previous foreign liabilities the Olusegun Obasanjo government got a debt cancellation.

Oshiomhole, who is also a member of the National Economic Council (NEC), said: “This economy has been run down in the last six years and this country has over-borrowed. It has so over-borrowed that our current debt profile makes our previous situation a joke.

“When you look at the current number, vis-a-viz the number we had before the debt cancellation, this huge debt burden at a time of declining oil revenue are likely to put pressure on the exchange rate.

“When government faces serious deficit, the temptation to resort to ways and means will be strong. All that will affect the value of wages, which will put pressure on the working people to demand for more at a time of declining national revenue.”

The governor urged labour leaders to unite and engage the incoming Muhammadu Buhari administration to ensure that the interests of the Nigerian worker form part of its policies.

He said: “I can see a lot of social tension, going forward.

The least you require is to have leaders being divided on petty issues. This is the time you need a united voice... Even my being in government cannot give you the comfort.

“What will give workers the comfort is the existence of a powerful, well organised, articulate and focused labour movement. Even if I was the President of Nigeria, you would need a strong movement to help to draw the President’s attention to the lot of the majority, who are actually the voters.

“I know that Nigerian workers are united by poverty at the moment. They are united by so much uncertainty, threats to jobs and unemployment. I am sure you are not carried away by those symbolic economic policies. You need to go beyond that and encourage the incoming government to revisit Nigeria industrial policy.”

Akwa Ibom election tribunal gets 11 petitions From Kazeem Ibrahym, Uyo

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HE Akwa Ibom Elections Petitions Tribunal has received 11 petitions from aggrieved candidates in the National Assembly elections, it was learnt yesterday.

Of the 11 petitions, 10 were from All Progressives Congress (APC) candidates and one from Accord Party.

Of the 10 petitions from APC, seven were from House of Representatives candidates and the others from senatorial candidates.

APC candidate for Akwa Ibom North West (Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District), Inibehe Okori, is challenging the declaration of Governor Godswill Akpabio, of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), as winner of the senatorial seat.

Also, APC’s candidate for Akwa Ibom North East (Uyo Senatorial Distrcit), Emmanuel Obot, is challenging the declaration of PDP’s candidate and former Finance Commissioner Bassey Albert, as winner of the March 28 National Assembly election for Uyo Senatorial District.

Bassey Etienam of the APC is challenging the declaration of Nelson Effiong of the PDP as the senator-elect for Akwa Ibom South (Eket Senatorial District).

Okori, in his petition, is challenging the eligibility of Akpabio to contest the election on the grounds that the governor was not properly nominated by the PDP. The National Assembly elections were characterised by non-availability of result sheets, snatching of ballot boxes, multiple thump-printing, attacks on PDP’s opponents and fraudulent figures in the result sheets by suspected PDP agents.

Edo Sixth Assembly to be inaugurated June 7 From Osemwengie Ben Ogbemudia, Benin

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DO State House of Assembly Speaker Uyi Igbe has said the sixth Assembly will be inaugurated on June 7 at the main Assembly complex in Benin, the state capital.

Uyi spoke yesterday in Benin, the state capital, when he led other lawmakers on an on-the-spot assessment of the main Assembly’s complex.

This happened barely a year after the lawmakers relocated to the old Assembly at the Government House following last June 9 crisis, which led to the suspension of former Deputy Speaker Festus Ebea and four others.

At yesterday’s plenary, the Assembly adopted its business calendar of 24 days for the fourth session, fourth quarter of the Fifth Assembly to begin parliamentary activities.

Majority Leader Philip Shaibu announced that the fourth quarter would have 24 days with April having nine days and May 15 days.

Shaibu said the 24 days in the fourth quarter would have 185 sitting days mandated by constitutional provisions with the first quarter having 35; the second and third quarters having 71 and 55 days.

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22, 2015

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NEWS Ortom promises credible council poll in Benue From Uja Emmanuel, Makurdi

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ENUE State Governorelect Samuel Ortom has promised that his administration will conduct credible a local government election when he assumes office.

The governor-elect spoke in Makurdi, the state capital, when he hosted a delegation of the Nongov community during a congratulatory visit.

Ortom hails from Nzorov, a part of the community, in Guma Local Government Area.

The governor-elect decried the practice of the party outgoing ruling party in the state, which he said always ensured that it won 100 per cent in local government elections.

He said his administration would allow the people to choose their grassroots leaders through credible, free and fair polls.

The former Minister of State for Industry, Trade and Investment said it was incumbent on the leaders of the incoming All Progressives Congress (APC) administration, particularly its governors, to replicate the conduct of credible polls the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) achieved in the last general elections.

He noted that though the challenges facing the state were frightening, they could be surmounted through collective efforts and the deployment of international best practices.

President of the Makurdi branch of Nongov Community Development Association, Chief Samuel Aga, told Ortom that members of the association were elated by his election victory.

Gunmen kill El-Rufai’s man in Kaduna

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UNMEN yesterday killed Mr. Markus Ishaya, a local coordinator of the campaign for Kaduna State Governor-elect Nasir El-Rufai.

A statement yesterday in Kaduna by El-Rufai’s spokesman, Samuel Aruwan, said the gunmen trailed Ishaya to his Atuku Ward in Atuku Kasa, Jema’a Local Government Area, and shot him.

The statement said Ishaya performed well in mobilising support for the governor-elect.

•Governor-elect condoles with family From Abdulgafar Alabelewe, Kaduna

It added: “His family informed us that gunmen stormed his home and shot him several times.

“The two gunmen were well armed and did not pick anything from his home.

“The police have confirmed the incident; they have visited the scene of the crime and begun investigation.

“While we appreciate their prompt action, our expectation is that the security agencies will fully investigate this killing and prosecute the perpetrators.

“Security agencies must adequately protect all Nigerians, irrespective of their status and standing.”

El-Rufai prayed for the soul of the deceased.

He said: “Our empathy and prayers go to the family of

Mr. Ishaya and the community over this callous murder and desecration of the human life.

“May Almighty God grant his soul eternal rest and give his family and friends the fortitude to bear this painful loss.”

The killing of Ishaya brought to 10 the number of All Progressives Congress (APC) members that have been killed in the state during the campaign and its aftermath.

Kogi APC elders reject ex-Governor Audu From Blessing Olaifa, Assistant Editor, Abuja

•Prince Audu

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LDERS of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kogi Central have urged former Governor and chieftain of the party, Prince Abubakar Audu, to step aside from the party’s leadership in the zone.

The elders, in a letter to President-elect Muhammadu Buhari urged him to prevail on Audu to allow the rule of law and the wind of change to take root in the zone.

They blamed APC’s dismal performance in the House of Assembly election on the

former governor’s alleged dictatorial tendencies.

The APC chieftains stressed that Audu was more interested in building structures for his governorship ambition than working for the collective good of the party.

The letter by the Chairman of the APC Elders’ Vanguard, Isa Sani Omolori, said it was necessary for the Presidentelect to intervene in the matter.

The letter reads: “The House of Assembly election in Kogi State ...shows that APC might lose the state when the governorship election comes up later in the year, except steps are taken to rectify the ugly trend.

“The main problem of the party (APC) in the state is not that of followership but leadership, which zeroes down on former Governor

Abubakar Audu, whose dictatorial politics would destroy rather than build the party.

“Kogi State has rejected the leadership of Prince Audu.

The national elections have come and gone but the ripples are much with us.

“Audu leaves in the past and does not believe in the wind of change. Kogi Central has an entrenched progressive idea and is ready to abide by the rule of law.

“What happened at the last national elections was for Audu to put up structures to launch his governorship ambition rather than abide by the party’s constitution and follow due process in the primaries.

“Despite the fact that APC’s delegation from the National Working Committee (NWC) prevailed on Audu to abide by the constitution and conduct primaries, Audu simply anointed candidates of his choice and ignored the due

process that would have seen popular candidates emerge.

“Buhari’s electoral tsunami ferried the good, the bad and the ugly to victory during the presidential election. But the House of Assembly election result shows the true state of Audu’s atrocities as the dismal performance is reflective of his rejection.

“All entreaties made to APC’s national headquarters, the last on February 2, 2015, to bring Audu to order, seemed to further boost his grip on the party.

“Although eight of the National Assembly aspirants from (Kogi) Central are jointly in court seeking justice from Audu, we call on ...Buhari to address this issue before the party goes the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) way - from grace to grass - in Kogi State. Leaving the matter with the Judiciary alone will definitely inflict more damage to the party rather than build it.”

Benue APC Assembly candidate loses millions in to fire

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MYSTERIOUS FIRE has razed the electronics and sports equipment shop of the All Progressives Congress (APC) House of Assembly’s candidate for Ogbadibo in Benue State, Dennis Iyampe.

Goods estimated at over N60 million were said to have been destroyed in the fire, which reportedly started at 7:45 pm after the shop had closed for the day.

Iyampe told our reporter yesterday that he contested the Ogbadigbo seat but lost to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate “in a fraudulent manner”.

According to him, he had been gathering materials and the result of the election to challenge the declaration of his opponent at the tribunal.

‘Compensate Kano with Senate President’ From Kolade Adeyemi, Kano

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HE senator-elect for Kano North, Barau Jibrin, yesterday urged his colleagues from the Northwest to concede the Senate President to Kano.

The senator noted that Kano played a vital role in the success of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the elections.

Barau urged his colleagues to reward Kano for what he called the state’s “huge political investment” in the party’s victory over the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Barau, a former chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Appropriations, sought the understanding of his colleagues to enable Kano get the Senate President’s seat.

The former lawmaker noted that with the calibre of people representing the state in the Senate, “there is no gainsaying the fact that Kano needs to be given special attention in leadership positions”.

He added: “You are aware that we have three senators from Kano and we all have the experience in governance and legislation. Our leader, Governor Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, who is to represent Kano Central, was a deputy Speaker in the House of Representatives; Senator Kabiru Ibrahim Gaya, a former governor, is a thirdtimer at the Senate; I have been in the leadership of the House of Representatives.

“So, apart from Kano being 100 per cent APC, we have people with the credentials to bring the change Nigeria needs. I do hope that our party and my fellow colleagues will consider this and do what is right.”

Jibrin recalled that Kano gave President-elect Muhammadu Buhari the highest votes.

The senator-elect said the state recorded similar feats in the other elections.

He said APC won the governorship election, the three senatorial seats, the 24 House of Representatives seats, besides sweeping the 40 seats in the House of Assembly.

Vehicle owner gets ultimatum •Iyampe

•The burnt shop...yesterday From Uja Emmanuel, Makurdi

Iyampe said he suspected a foul play because he kept the evidence for his planned legal battle at the shop.

He said: “The arsonist(s)

came to the shop and opened the small window at the back. They tore the net and splashed petrol everywhere before they set it ablaze. The fire spread fast and consumed the goods within 30

‘Tackling insurgency in Northeast’

was no election in Ogbadibo.

According to him, figures were concocted and forwarded to the Collation Centre.

The fire has been reported to the police.

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Ahmed seeks stiffer penalty against substandard product makers

By Kelvin Osa Okunbor

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HE Chairman of the Foundation for Ethnic Harmony in Nigeria (FEHN), Mr Allen Onyema, has urged Presidentelect Muhammadu Buhari to design interventionist programmes to reintegrate restive youths and displaced persons in the Northeast, especially those affected by Boko Haram insurgents.

Part of the programmes, he said, should be targeted at reintegrating youths affected by activities of the sect.

Onyema, who congratulated Buhari on his victory, said the programme should be patterned after the Amnesty programme for Niger Delta youths.

The crisis resolution expert urged Buhari to carry along all sections of the country through the engagement and reintegration of those affected by one crisis or the other.

He noted that good governance could only be achieved in an atmosphere of peace and stability.

Onyema said: “First, the victory of Gen. Muhammadu Buhari is well deserved, after many attempts. It is evidence of his commitment and the pursuit of a cause he believes in. For me, he is the Abraham Lincoln of Nigeria. He has become a story in perseverance.

minutes. Nothing was salvaged in the shop.”

Iyampe said he was not deterred by the fire, adding that he would pursue his case at the tribunal to a logical end.

The politician said there

HE Lagos State Police Command has warned the owner of Honda Accord car with registration number BL983LSD parked at Akinpelu Division to remove it within 14 days of this publication or lose it to the public.

From Adekunle Jimoh, Ilorin

•Ahmed

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WARA State Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed yesterday called for stiffer legislation against importation, production and sale of substandard products in Nigeria.

The governor urged the

Federal Government to also ensure a more strident control on the influx of such products into the country.

He said substandard products were often produced in connivance with negative elements.

Ahmed spoke yesterday in Ilorin, the state capital, when he opened a two-day workshop by the Institute of Public Analysts of Nigeria (IPAN).

The governor was represented by Health Commissioner Abdul K. Isa.

He said: “The menace of substandard products remains a major source of concern.

Consumers and industries across the country pay a huge price for the consumption and use of substandard foods, drugs and products that still make their way into our market despite efforts by the National Agency for Food and Drugs Administration and Control (NAFDAC) and the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON).

“I call on IPAN to be in the vanguard of the move to eradicate the circulation of

these dangerous items, given their negative impact on our health and businesses.

“We must implement a zero tolerance policy for substandard goods and products in the interest of our wellbeing as individuals and the growth of our economy.

“On our part, we have complemented your efforts with the establishment of strict control protocol in the Ministries of Health, Commerce and Agriculture for surveillance of foods and products produced or consumed in the state.”

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THE NATION WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22, 2015

FOREIGN NEWS Ukraine to prevent attacks at WW2 commemorations

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KRAINE is planning an operation involving tens of thousands of police to guard against any attack by separatists or Russian agents during World War Two commemorations next month, security chiefs said yesterday.

Tension is mounting in the capital and other cities amid an increase in rebel attacks in the east. Kiev said one Ukrainian serviceman had been killed in the past 24 hours, in an attack near the airport in Donetsk. The airport fell to the rebels earlier this year.

The killings in Kiev of two pro-Russian activists, a journalist, by what appeared to be professional hitmen, have further driven up tension in the run-up to May 8-9 celebrations of victory in 1945, which traditionally bring thousands of people on to the streets.

Ukraine, along with most European Union members and the United States, is boycotting festivities in Moscow marking 70 years since the allied victory over Nazi Germany, because of Moscow’s role in the conflict in eastern Ukraine in which more than 6,100 people have been killed.

But it will hold victory celebrations of its own in Kiev and other cities.

“We cannot trust the word of Russia and their terrorists at all. We must be ready to give a clear, appropriate and strong reply to protect people on the streets, provide warnings of terrorist attacks and bring those guilty of crimes to justice,” Prime Minister Arseny Yatseniuk told security chiefs.

Calling for heightened security measures, particularly in large cities, Yatseniuk said Russia was spending a lot of money on financing networks to stir up trouble.

Ban pushes for two states of Israel, Palestine

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HE united nations UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon on yesterday renewed his appeal for the recognition of two states of Israel and Palestine.

He urged the international community to double efforts at promoting a return to negotiations that will end nearly half a century of occupation and allow the two states to live side by side in security and peace.

Making the call in New York while briefing the Security Council on the Situation in the Middle East, Ban said he is encouraged by current discussions among Member States.

The United Nations, he said, is committed to supporting such efforts. ``Both sides face difficult choices. But one choice stands above all: whether to choose peace or the death, destruction and suffering that have defined the conflict for far too long. ``Too many lives have been lost, too many families have been destroyed, too many livelihoods have been shattered, and too much distrust has been sown. ``Ultimately, the parties themselves must demonstrate the commitment and

courage necessary to chart a viable course towards a better future," he told the 15Member Council.

Ban said that his briefing was coming at yet another crucial period in the evolution of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, as the whole region is threatened by violent confl ``The prospect of a twostate solution continues to recede, with potentially explosive consequences. ``In the coming weeks, a new Israeli Government will be formed. ``I strongly urge the incoming Government to reaffirm Israel's commitment to the two-state solution and to take credible steps to foster an environment conducive to a return to meaningful negotiations, including a freeze of settlement activity," he said.

Ban welcomed the agreement reached last week between the Palestinian Authority and the Government of Israel, under which Israel has now transferred more than 470 million dollars in revenues collected on behalf of the Palestinian Authority.

However, the UN Chief underlined that the recur-

rent withholding of such revenues is counterproductive, and seriously undermines the ability of the Government of Palestine to carry out its responsibilities.

Gaza, he said, is facing a crushing financial crisis, adding that public sector employees remain unpaid.

Ban said the impact of the conflict and of extreme poverty on Palestinians in Gaza has been severe.

The UN Chief welcomed ongoing efforts to promote Palestinian reconciliation.

The Government of National Consensus, he said, must assume its leadership of Gaza, including control of border crossings. ``Until the crossings are fully re-opened within the framework of Security Council resolution 1860, the temporary Gaza Reconstruction Mechanism continues to serve as a critical tool to alleviate the suffering of Gaza's people. ``To date, the Mechanism has enabled approximately 70 per cent of households in need of shelter repairs to procure the necessary materials.''

Additionally, 60 of 130 projects funded by the international community and the

private sector have been approved by Israel, with six of these currently under way. ``These are promising developments, yet the needs remain enormous," he told the Council.

Inspite of the generosity of some donors, he said, critical funding gaps threaten stability.

Humanitarian agencies, he said, are struggling to raise the 720 million dollars needed for temporary shelters for 100,000 internally displaced people.

He said that without immediate funding, the World Food Programme will be forced to suspend its food assistance to 95,000 Palestinians in Gaza by July.

Gaza's water and energy supply, he added, is also perilously unstable, with no long-term solution in sight.

He urged donors to fulfil pledges made in Cairo last October.

In the West Bank, Ban said, clashes between Israeli security forces and Palestinians continue, along with the destruction of Palestinian-owned structures.

Administrative detentions, he said, are increasing at an alarming pace, including the recent arrest and

S’ Korean PM Lee Wan-koo offers to resign

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IS beheads opposition fighters in Damascus suburb

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HE Islamic State group beheaded overnight two opposition fighters accused of fighting the extremist group in a southern Damascus suburb, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights monitor said Tuesday.

“IS executed two men in south Damascus by beheading” after they were accused of being traitors, the Britainbased Observatory said.

Observatory chief Rami Abdel Rahman told AFP IS had kidnapped the fighters from Qadam, a Damascus neighbourhood, and beheaded them in Hajar al-Aswad, a suburb of the capital.

IS has a relatively limited presence in south Damascus, with its forces concentrated in the outskirts of Qadam and Hajar al-Aswad.

The incident is the third time its militants are reported to have carried out beheadings in and around the capital.

On March 21, IS beheaded three fighters, also accusing them of being traitors, in Hajar al-Aswad.

And after IS seized control of large portions of the Palestinian Yarmuk camp this month, following an attack launched from Hajar alAswad, the group executed a number of Palestinian fighters there.

•Ban Ki-Moon

charges against a member of the Palestinian Legislative Council.

He said such realities, feed frustration and tension in a vicious cycle that undermines the path to peace. ``Both sides need to see more constructive actions, such as Israel's recent approval of a master plan for building 2,500 housing units and public buildings for the Palestinian population in East Jerusalem. ``Such steps can help to reduce pressure. But they also need to lead to tangible results," he said.

•An air strike on a bridge in the Western city of Ibb reportedly killed 20 people...yesterday.

PHOTO: EPA

Egypt’s ousted President Morsi jailed for 20 years

•Morsi

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N Egyptian court has sentenced ousted President Mohammed Morsi to 20 years in jail for ordering the arrest and torture of protesters during his rule.

It is the first verdict he has received since his overthrow and is one of several trials he faces.

Morsi was deposed by the military in July 2013 following mass street protests

against his rule.

Since then, the authorities have banned his Muslim Brotherhood movement and arrested thousands of his supporters.

Morsi and 14 other Brotherhood figures escaped a more serious charge of inciting the killing of protesters, which could have carried the death sentence.

Most of the other defendants were also given 20-year prison sentences. Morsi’s legal team have said they will appeal.

Morsi’s co-defendants gave a defiant four-fingered salute during the hearing This verdict is just one of several Mr Morsi faces. They include: Endangering national security by leaking state secrets and sensitive documents to Qatar via the Doha-based Al Jazeera network Morsi stood accused of inciting supporters to kill a

journalist and opposition protesters in clashes outside the presidential palace in late 2012.

As crowds grew outside the palace, Morsi ordered the police to disperse them.

They refused, so the Muslim Brotherhood brought in their own supporters. Eleven people died in the ensuing clashes, mostly from the Brotherhood.

The defendants were confined to a cage during the verdict Security was tightened outside court for the hearing Hearing the verdict, Morsi and the other defendants gave a four-fingered salute, a symbol of the deadly clearance of Brotherhood supporters at the Rabaah al-Adawiya mosque in 2013.

A senior Brotherhood figure, Amr Darrag, called the ruling a “travesty of justice”.

“They want to pass a life sentence for democracy in Egypt,” he said.

Ramy Ghanem, a lawyer for one of those injured in the clashes, expressed surprise that Morsi escaped the more serious charge, but told the AFP news agency the sentences are “not bad”.

There were deadly clashes between supporters and opponents of the Muslim Brotherhood in late 2012 Morsi was toppled by the army in 2013 after mass street protests against his rule However the brother of one of the victims said he wanted to “enter the cage and pull out his [Morsi’s] intestines”, according to Reuters.

Morsi has rejected the authority of the courts, shouting during his first trial that he was the victim of a military coup.

OUTH Korea’s Prime Minister Lee Wan-koo has offered to resign amid a growing political scandal.

Lee will stay in his official role until South Korean President Park Geun-hye accepts his resignation. He has transferred his role of chairing Cabinet meetings to the deputy prime minister for the time being, according to his office.

Park heard about the resignation and called it “regrettable,” according to the South Korean presidential office.

Calls for Lee to resign began after South Korean tycoon Sung Woan-jong was found hanging from a tree in Seoul in an apparent suicide on April 9. Sung, who was under investigation for fraud and bribery, left a note listing names and amounts of cash given to top officials, including those who work for the President.

Lee and seven other politicians with links to the South Korean President are under investigation. A special prosecutor’s team has been established to investigate the case.

Lee had adamantly denied the allegations as the scandal escalated: “If there are any evidence, I will give out my life. As a Prime Minister, I will accept Prosecutor Office’s investigation first.”

Park has said that she is taking the accusations very seriously. Before departing on her trip to Central and South America, she condemned political corruption in her country.

•Wan-koo

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THE NATION WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22, 2015

NEWS DSS arrests 16 Imo INEC officials for electoral fraud

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EN of the Department of State Security (DSS) in Imo State last night arrested 16 members of staff of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for altering the result sheets of the governorship election to suit the figures that were “dubiously allotted to political parties”.

From Okodili Ndidi, Owerri

Among those arrested is said to be the head of operations and other Electoral Officers, who presided over the governorship and House of Assembly elections.

Confirming the arrest, a DSS official, who pleaded anonymity because he was not authorised to speak on the

matter, said the INEC officials were caught while thumb printing ballot papers in favour of an opposition political party.

According to the reliable source, the suspects were detained at the DSS State headquarters.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) had demanded

the redeployment of the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Dr. Gabriel Ada for allegedly working for the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).

The party also passed a vote of no confidence on the leadership of the INEC in the state and called for a new team to conduct the rerun.

‘How Indian ‘perpetrated’ N32b bank fraud’ Continued from page 1

and round tripping. It is also known as Lazy Susan, a business model.”

Lazy Susan, he said, involves members of a business group transferring money from one sister company to another without selling any commodity, using money obtained from other banks.

He said as, at September 2007, the accused had less than N2million in his account.

“The volume of transaction was also minimal, starting with N20million. Within the same month, it rose to N600million. The volume of transaction also sky-rocketed to billions of naira within just three months,” he said.

Abdullahi said the transactions involved the use of “suspended cheques” which did not go through the clearing

house initially.

“If he brings a cheque, credit will be given to him immediately without going through clearance. Because he has a cheque discounting facility, if he brings N1billion cheque, they will give him N800million,” Abdullahi said.

He said Wema Bank, for instance, discovered that it allegedly lost N23billion to the activities of Fernandez and his companies.

On how the fraud was perpetrated, he said a high ranking staff of Wema Bank aided the fraudulent transactions.

The Wema Bank insider, the witness said, “was suppressing the cheque”, such that when other banks asked whether there is money in Fernandez’s account, the official would answer in the affirmative.

“All the banks will ask Wema Bank staff: ‘Is there N5billion in his account, and he will?’ say yes,” said the witness.

Abdullahi said the accused person claimed to be involved in oil and gas business which he said was “cash-intensive” and therefore needed to move money from one bank to the other.

He said the bubble burst when the banks, at the clearing house, discovered that “they were clearing the same cheque”.

Under cross examination by defence counsel, Mr James Ocholi (SAN), Abdullahi said he did not know the banks’ account officers or branch managers who dealt with Fernandez.

He said the defendant’s companies were duly incorporated,

and that his accounts were opened through “traditional” means.

He added that Fernandez was considered high networth individual and so the banks took him for his words.

“If they had not taken him for his words, we won’t be talking about missing billions.

The accused person stated that a point, he became the darling of the banks,” the witness said.

He said the investigation was triggered by a Suspicious Transaction Alert received from Afribank.

“They reduced the complaint to an intelligence and forwarded to EFCC operatives for investigation. I don’t know if there was a petition,” Abdullahi said.

Justice John Tsoho adjourned hearing till June 16 for continuation of trial.

Kashamu to Tinubu: be a democrat in deed Continued from page 4

ly for my party and its candidates. Now, the elections are over, and as a true sportsman, I thought I should congratulate those who won. Short of any praise-singing, what I said in the congratulatory message

that they chose to react to a week after it was published was that there was no way anyone can wish away the achievements of Asiwaju Tinubu in the nation’s political annals, particularly in Yoruba land.

Part of the message also reads: “Although I now belong to the opposition, your achievements transcend political divides and I am not ashamed to publicly acknowledge them.

“I salute your courage, commitment, doggedness, forthrightness and tenacity of purpose even in the face of daunting opposition and challenges.

“By your sheer wit and unwavering commitment to democratic ethos, true federalism and economic prosperity, you led the Alliance for Democracy (AD) from a one-party state

to a regional party, and now a national party that is about to form the government at the centre.”

“Now, how do these translate to praise-singing? Are they not facts of history that I merely adumbrated?

“He accused me of purchasing my election with money, the appropriate forum to prove that is the election petitions tribunal and not the pages of newspaper.

On the U.S case, I wish to

state for the umpteenth time that the United States as the bastion of democracy and the Rule of Law would not lend itself to any form of abuse of the fundamental human rights of an innocent soul, especially one that has been arrested, tried and freed by its most trusted ally – the United Kingdom.

“I am not running from any trial. All I have asked is for the relevant parties to follow due process – if they believe that I yet have a case to answer.”

Buhari advises politicians Continued from page 4

were in Abuja to congratulate the President-elect for his victory pointing out that the state has had a long-standing relationship with the Presidentelect.

He said the state was ready

to collaborate with the incoming government to complete federal projects across Kwara state.

The President-elect also received a delegation from Kogi State led by former governor Abubakar Audu.

Buhari backs Adesina Continued from page 4

erty in Africa by reducing unemployment and inequality among African youth.

Dr. Adesina is also an agricultural development expert with 24 years of experience in developing and managing successful agricultural Programmes across Africa.

Until his appointment as the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development in 2011, he was the Vice President, Policy and Partnerships Alliance for Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA). Additionally, he has held senior leadership positions in a number of agricultural institutions in the world.

Speaking on his plan, the minister promised to focus on “smart infrastructure to allow increased productivity and efficiency in growth, to work on the private sector- private sec-

tor for wealth creation. The third is jobs for Africa’s youth and jobs for Africa’s women.

“The fourth area I am going put a lot of emphasis on is reviving rural economies to create shared prosperity and inclusive growth of the continent and finally,… regional integration and prosperity,” The ADB operates under the leadership of the President, who serves as the legal representative of the Bank, the Chairperson of the Board of Directors, and the Chief of Staff of the Bank. The President conducts the current business of the Bank, under the direction of the Board of Directors. The President is elected by the Board of Governors and serves a 5-year term, renewable once.

Outgoing President Dr. Donald Kaberuka, from Rwanda, was elected in July 2005

Boko Haram kills two soldiers Continued from page 4

security cover to the convoy,” said Bulama.

Military spokesman Chris Olukolade said on February 21 that troops had to clear landmines planted by Boko Haram before being able to enter Baga.

Nigeria claims to have Boko Haram on the run and that troops are poised to storm the group’s Sambisa Forest stronghold by the handover of power to president-elect Muhammadu Buhari on May 29.

But with increasing talk of some of the 1.5 million people

forced to flee the fighting returning home, the Baga residents said the area was still infested with militant fighters.

“Boko Haram are still in the bushes around Baga and move in and out of the town unchallenged because soldiers confine themselves to their base in Mile 4 and only carry periodic patrols of the town,” said Maina.

Bulama added: “The area is still not safe. Boko Haram fighters are very much around in the surrounding areas. No one should contemplate moving back into the area because it is dangerous.”

Tinubu rejects Kashamu’s overtures Continued from page 4 other leaders of the APC.

“Henceforth, there will be consequences for the positions a politician takes and the words they utter.

“Politicians will no longer be able to change direction and loyalties as if they were changing clothes. Those in politics must know that responsibility and accountability shall now follow them. One can no longer walk both sides of the street at the same time. In case Kashamu has not noticed, the politics of principle defeated the politics of posturing.

“That Kashumu undermined the democratic process by buying his victory does not mean he is part of the new Nigeria. He is merely an isolated vestige of a dying past. The man is an extinct species the realisation of which will soon dawn on him. “ For him to liken himself to Bola Tinubu is for a small rut to call itself a mountain. For Kashamu to call Tinubu a role model is Kashamu‘s admission that he does not know the meaning of the term. There are no grounds for comparison. There is only contrast. Tinubu has sacrificed years trying to bring democracy to Nigeria.

“He struggled in opposition to the powers that be. Without this, at times, lonesome fight and singular determination, the great change in Nigerian politics would not have happened as it did.

“Tinubu is an architect of democracy. Kashamu is a failed demolisher of that which Tinubu has strived to build. Under Kashamu’s designs, our elections would be a wholly mercantile undertaking.

“Kashamu has blown wherever the prevailing winds took him.

He stood for nothing and sacrificed nothing except the people’s welfare.

“This same Kashamu rained insults on former President (Olusegun) Obasanjo in a vicious campaign of calumny. Kashamu’s party, the PDP, sponsored defamatory documentaries full of lies and innuendos against Tinubu, Gen. Muhammadu Buhari and

“Please keep your peace until you make your trip to the USA as a Senator-elect. Upon your return we can then have a conversation. We can then proceed with your repudiation of the PDP with a promise that you will stop corrupting and fouling the political system. “ That Kashamu would deign to compare himself with Tinubu is a distasteful insult to Tinubu and to anyone who knows Nigerian politics. If he has any sense of propriety, Kashamu should retract the corrupt missive and apologize for this latest lie to the public. ”Kashamu in a factory of incoherent mischief aimed at achieving selfish goals. Before the election, Tinubu was his archenemy.

Now he seeks to be the prodigal son returned home. This scam will fail. “ Kashamu may be prodigal but he is no political son of Tinubu. Kashamu’s political lineage tracks to people like Bode George and President (Goodluck ) Jonathan. He should direct his encomiums to these men who are his true role models. They need his contrived affections more than Tinubu does.

“Kashamu is knocking on the wrong door at the wrong house at the wrong time.

“Tinubu is a patriotic, lawabiding Nigerian whose achievements make him world-renowned. “He is also global citizen who travels freely to the USA, UK, and other nations. He associates with individuals who seek the democracy and good governance for all. He does not spend time with characters whose values are at variance with societal expectations and laws governing a decent society.

“Everyone should disregard Kasahmu’s foray of mercenary and vain praise. It was but the futile attempt of one of our nation’s chief villains to look into the mirror and imagine himself as one of the nation’s heroes. On top of being bad, it seems Kashamu has also gone convoluted in thinking.”

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22, 2015

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THE NATION WEDNESDAY, APRIL, 22, 2015

NATION SPORT

Chelsea stayed Kane hails special moment compact H - Zouma

•Zouma

K

URT Zouma, impressive in Saturday’s win over Manchester United, provided an insight into the job he was asked to perform by Jose Mourinho.

The Frenchman was brought into the side and deployed in midfield alongside Nemanja Matic as the Blues secured another crucial victory, and Zouma, who also played in midfield in the Capital One Cup final, as well as away at West Ham United, explained his role.

‘I had to stay with [Marouane] Fellaini because we knew he is on fire at the moment,’ Zouma revealed. ‘He has scored a lot of goals so I had to keep an eye on him, and I think I did it well. I had to be physical with him and stay close to him.

‘The game was very difficult.

The most important thing was that we had one chance and we scored. We defended very well. Manchester United didn’t have many chances to score. We stayed compact.’

Speaking after the final

whistle, Mourinho said he had spoken to the player about his role in the days leading up to the match.

‘I told Zouma I want the game to be 10 against 10, I didn’t want the game to be 11 against 11,’ he explained.

‘During the week we were working for that and the game was 10 against 10.’

The Portuguese went on to praise the 20-year-old’s performances over the course of his first season at the club.

‘See the jobs he is doing for us, as a central defender playing against [Sergio] Aguero, as a central defender playing against [Raheem] Sterling,’ said Mourinho.

‘He played as the holding midfield player against Tottenham in a system with only one holding midfield player.

‘Against Man United he played to stop Fellaini from playing in the box. He is doing amazing jobs for us. He is mentally very, very strong, too. Not just physically, mentally he is very strong.

ARRY Kane is in no mood to put his feet up after smashing through the 30-goal barrier.

The 21-year-old England international became the first Spurs player to reach that mark since Gary Lineker during the 1991-92 season when he netted the third in a 3-1 Barclays Premier League victory at Newcastle on Sunday.

He had to wait almost a month after his 29th of the campaign to reach the milestone, but with five games to play before the end of the campaign, he is refusing to rest on his laurels.

Kane told Spurs TV: "It's great to reach that milestone. It felt like I was on 29 for ages and to be able to get to 30 now and 20 in the league is special - and to win the game makes it even better.

"The season doesn't finish here, though. There are still five more games left and I'll be trying to get on the scoresheet in as many of those games and get as many wins as we can."

Kane's strike at St James' Park cemented a comfortable victory for the visitors on a day when the home fans staged concerted protests against owner Mike Ashley.

Their mood was not improved when Nacer Chadli fired Spurs into a 30th-minute lead, and although Jack

Colback levelled within 20 seconds of the restart, Christian Eriksen restored their advantage just seven minutes later.

The Magpies committed men

to the search for an equaliser as time ran down, and Kane made the most of a lack of numbers at the back in injury-time when he raced through to beat

keeper Tim Krul.

He said: "We needed it. We've had two disappointing results in the last couple of weeks and we had to put that right.

Fernando eager for Manchester City momentum

M

ANCHESTER City m i d f i e l d e r Fernando has challenged his teammates to win their final five games of the season following Sunday's victory over West Ham United.

The Premier League champions ended their run of two consecutive defeats yesterday as they earned a 2-0 triumph over the Hammers at the Etihad Stadium.

However, City remain 12 points behind leaders Chelsea in the table.

Despite seeing their hopes of retaining the title all but dashed in recent weeks, Fernando is eager for the side to enjoy a strong end to the campaign.

"We went through really tough moments but now we are back to winning. It was really important to get a victory and now we want to

keep form and make sure we try to win the next five matches," he is quoted as saying by Sky Sports News.

"We know the season has not gone as well as we would have liked but now it is important for us to focus on the last five matches

and make sure we get good results from them."

Manchester City continue their league campaign on Saturday when they welcome FA Cup finalists Aston Villa to the Etihad Stadium.

Cleverley hails Sherwood’s style

T

OM Cleverley has hailed Tim Sherwood's style and insists Aston Villa's attacking gambles are paying off.

The midfielder helped Villa reach the FA Cup final after their 2-1 last-four victory over Liverpool on Sunday.

•Cleverley

Christian Benteke and Fabian Delph scored to cancel out Philippe Coutinho's opener as Villa booked a final showdown with Arsenal on May 30.

And Manchester United loanee Cleverley reckons boss Sherwood's gameplans are allowing Villa to express themselves and clinch results.

"He has brought an attacking style of football. At times we gamble, and it is a case of entertaining the fans and that's what was needed to bring back to the football club," he said.

"Along with some fantastic defensive displays, we are good to watch and it's (a) great (team) to play in.

"I'm playing with four fantastic midfielders here in Westy (Ashley Westwood), Carlos (Sanchez) and Delphy, so it's an absolute pleasure to play with them every week and I'm really enjoying my football."

Holders Arsenal, who beat Hull 3-2 after extra-time last May, have thrashed Villa 3-0 and 5-0 in the Premier League this season and will go into the final as clear favourites.

But Cleverley dismissed any suggestion the game is a foregone conclusion and believes Villa can stun the Gunners to win their first major trophy since 1996.

Gerrard: Liverpool looked very nervous

S •Fernando

TEVEN Gerrard has accused his Liverpool teammates of letting nerves affect them in their lacklustre FA Cup semi-final defeat by Aston Villa. Brendan Rodgers' side were well below their best at Wembley on Sunday, as Villa recovered from Philippe Coutinho's opener to book their place in the final thanks to goals from Christian Benteke and Fabian Delph.

Reds captain Gerrard, who is due to join Los Angeles Galaxy in the close-season, had been hoping for a victory that would have set up the prospect of a fairytale farewell in the final on his 35th birthday next month.

However, that dream was shattered by Liverpool's lethargic effort, and Gerrard admitted he was disappointed with the way the team seemed to shrink on the big stage.

"We didn't play, we looked very nervous for some reason," Gerrard told talkSPORT. "We're a team that's built on passing and playing it quickly, but we were very disappointing in that aspect and they were much better than us.

"We were very disappointing.

I thought Aston Villa were much better than us and that's the overriding feeling after the game."

With Liverpool's last hope of winning silverware this season dashed in frustrating fashion, Gerrard will now focus on trying to lift his side into the Premier League's top four to secure a place in the UEFA Champions League. That won't be easy with the fifthplaced Reds sitting seven points behind fourth-placed Manchester City, albeit with a game in hand.

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22, 2015

SPORT EXTRA

63

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE

Bayern thrashes Porto 6-1

B

AYERN Munich has powered their way into the Champions League semi-finals after thrashing Porto 6-1 in last night's quarter-final second leg at the Allianz Arena.

The hosts were quickest off the starting blocks and nearly took the lead in the eighth minute when Thomas Muller's powerful shot was parried by Fabiano before Robert Lewandowski struck the post with the rebound.

Bayern were intent on overturning their two-goal deficit from the first leg as quick as possible and they only had to wait until just before the quarter-hour mark to break the deadlock.

Juan Bernat whipped a neat

cross into the box from the left flank, where Thiago Alcantara beat his marker to head home from six yards out at the near post.

Porto's initial cautious confidence soon turned to nerves as Pep Guardiola's charges doubled their lead on the night just seven minutes later, Jerome Boateng heading home from close range after being played in by Holger Badstuber.

Not even half an hour had elapsed before Bayern succeeded in wiping out their deficit, Muller helping the ball on towards Lewandowski, who duly fired home.

Porto's humiliation was far from over as Bayern had time to rattle a further two goals

past the beleaguered Fabiano before the break.

In the 36th minute, Muller's shot from the edge of the area deflected off Bruno Martins Indi and wrongfooted the keeper on its way into the net, and just four minutes later, Lewandowski collected Muller's pass before rifling into the bottom corner.

Despite the second half appearing to be a formality, Bayern continued to press forward in a bid to put the tie to bed, but Porto were not showing any signs of giving up.

Julen Lopetegui's charges were rewarded in the 73rd minute when Hector Herrera reached the byline before cutting the ball back for Jackson Martinez to fire home.

• Thomas Mueller celebrates with Bayern teammates after scoring one of the gaols for Bayern Munich on Tuesday night

Barca sees off PSG with 2-0 win

B

ARCELONA has cruised into the semi-finals of the Champions League after a Neymar double secured a 2-0 win yesterday against Paris Saint-Germain in the second leg of their quarterfinal at the Nou Camp.

The visitors, chasing a two-goal deficit, got off on the wrong foot when David Luiz was booked just three minutes in for a challenge on Ivan Rakitic.

Luis Enrique's charges were rampant in the early stages and took the lead in the 14th minute when Andres Iniesta skilfully beat three opposition players before playing in Neymar, who then skinned Luiz, went round Salvatore Sirigu and slotted in.

PSG could have been level three minutes later as Blaise Matuidi's deft backheel found Zlatan Ibrahimovic, who rifled a shot into the bottom corner of the net, but the goal was ruled out for offside.

Nevertheless Barca were

clicking together and doubled their lead just after the half-hour mark thanks to Neymar getting ahead of Luiz and heading home Dani Alves's cross to all but kill off PSG's hopes of progressing.

With the second half nothing more than a formality, the Blaugrana took their foot off the gas, although Lionel Messi attempted an audacious chip in the 51st minute that Sirigu had covered.

It could be argued that

the hosts were getting complacent as Pique's miscued clearance just before the hour gave Marco Verratti plenty of time and space to fire from the edge of the box, but he dragged his effort wide.

PSG continued to push forward but ultimately they were unable to bag even a consolation as Barcelona saw the game out to reach the Champions League semi-finals for the seventh time in eight years.

RESULTS UEFA Champions League Barcelona 2 - 0 PSG Bayern 6 - 1 FC Porto England - Championship Blackburn 2 - 0 Millwall

• Neymar celebrates with Barcelona teammates after scoring the opening goal on Tuesday night

TODAY IN THE NATION

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22, 2015 TRUTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM

‘Jega may require to finish the job he has started so well. He or someone very like him of impeccable ‘character and learning’ must supervise and analyse the enormous voter database now available,...’

VOL.10 NO.3192

COMMENT & DEB ATE EBA

F

OUR years ago, I almost gave up hope that the curse laid on this country by the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo that Nigeria will never experience any credible election in my life time will ever be lifted. The great man laid the curse in a newspaper interview after he lost his 1983 presidential bid to Alhaji Shehu Shagari for the second time, the first time being 1979 after 13 years of military rule, which followed the first coup on January 15, 1966.

As if to prove the efficacy of the great man’s curse, the army struck against President Shagari on December 31 that year, barely three months into his second term. This time the soldiers held on to power for 15 years.

During those 15 years, we had three military regimes and at least two failed coups in between. In the last of those military regimes which started in November 1993 and lasted five long, brutish years, the head of state, General Sani Abacha, had almost succeeded in transforming himself into a civilian president at the end of three years of a self-serving transition politics he initiated in 1995, when he died mysteriously in June 1998.

His Chief of Defence Staff, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, who succeeded him promised to return power to civilians in 11 short months. He kept his word. Thus emerged the current Fourth Republic in May 1999 under a civilian General Olusegun Obasanjo, the man who, as military head of state, ushered in the Second Republic in 1979.

The general election through which Obasanjo emerged was generally regarded as free, fair and credible even though there were suspicions that the authorities could not have been completely disinterested in the outcome of an election in which their former boss and military commander-in-chief (Obasanjo) was a candidate.

However, even if the authorities favoured their former commander-in-chief, it could be argued that the 1999 elections were credible enough to make one hope that Awo’s curse was over for good.

Unfortunately, President Obasanjo soon dashed that hope when he rejected calls from home and abroad to do a Mandela – i.e. serve for only one term and heal the wounds 15 years of military rule and its dubious transitions to civil rule had inflicted on the nation. Instead, an Obasanjo determined to serve a second term superintended over elections in 2003 which lacked credibility.

His success apparently made the man even more daring as he soon plotted to amend the Constitution to remove its two-term limit.

Mercifully, he failed. But then in an election in 2007 which himself said was a “do or die” affair, he succeeded in imposing on the country an ailing president and his clueless vice.

The 2007 election was so bad that no less than President Umaru Yar’Adua, its highest beneficiary, admitted nearly as much in his inaugural speech and promised electoral reform as a priority.

However, less than half-way through his presidency his deteriorating health led to a serious constitutional crisis of succession, when a protective cabal around him sought to

RIPPLES

I SHED TEARS WHEN I WATCH EAGLES PLAY–Ex-international

It’s not only you, many NIGERIANS CRY too... but in their BEDROOMS!

People and Politics By

MOHAMMED H ARUNA ndajika@yahoo.com

Jega’s forbearance and Awo’s curse

•Jega

stop the vice-president, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, from taking over, even though it had became obvious that the president was no longer in possession of his faculties.

A “doctrine of necessity” invoked by the Senate, following massive civil society demonstrations against the president’s cabal finally resolved the crisis in favour of the vice-president and he took over in acting capacity. Shortly after that the president died and Jonathan became substantive president.

The insistence by some Northern PDP chieftains that Jonathan should only serve out the remainder of Yar’Adua’s first term and make way for a Northern presidential candidate in the next election in 2011, based on the party’s power rotation arrangement, led to a serious rift with the ruling party. Predictably, Jonathan used his incumbency to prevail and win his party’s ticket.

As president he promised to deliver on the promise of his predecessor to reform our electoral laws. And as if to prove he meant what he promised he replaced Professor Maurice Iwu, whose disastrous handling of the 2007 elections was almost universally condemned, with Professor Attahiru Jega on June 8, 2010, to universal acclaim, given Jega’s antecedents as an indefatigable and perpendicular president of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) in the late eighties.

Less than a year after his appointment, he conducted his first general election on April 9, 2011.

This was after the initial date of April 2 turned

O

NE way of looking at the outrageous seizure of over 200 schoolgirls by Boko Haram terrorists in Chibok, Borno State, one year ago, is through the eyes of the Senior Special Assistant to President Goodluck Jonathan on Public Affairs, Dr. Doyin Okupe.

With most of the kidnapped girls still missing and the world still in shock, it was predictable that on the April 14 anniversary world leaders reiterated the familiar demand: bring back the girls.

While the solemn international remembrance made the headlines, Okupe was busy posting his own views about the abduction on the social media. He was quoted as saying on Facebook: “One of the reasons the Chibok girls were kidnapped was to present Jonathan’s administration as incompetent and to hold it to ransom against 2015 elections. One of the reasons the BBOG (BringBackOurGirls) was formed was to sustain and internationalise the embarrassment.”

Okupe continued: “One of the reasons President Jonathan lost the election was a national and international conspiracy predicated on this carefully choreographed and assiduously sustained perception.”

into a fiasco because of late arrival of materials from the printers abroad, so late that he had to make a national broadcast postponing the election. This rescheduling led to a week’s delay in conducting the presidential election which then held on April 16.

The aftermath of that election has since gone down as probably the single bloodiest in Nigeria’s electoral history, with the dead put at 800, at the least. Depending on which side you are, the culprit was either provocative threats by leaders of the opposition party which lost the election or the widespread perception that it was rigged by the ruling party in cahoots with INEC. However, whoever was to blame for the post election violence of that year, it must have created a widespread concern that a free, fair and credible election was simply impossible in Nigeria. If someone with Jega’s fabled character, with all the public goodwill he enjoyed at the time of his appointment - not to mention the fact that the National Assembly made sure money was not his object in conducting the elections - couldn’t do it, most Nigerians must’ve wondered who else could.

The answer, it has now turned out was Jega himself. The election he has just conducted has been widely acclaimed as the most credible in Nigeria’s history. Certainly, it is as much a final vindication of the public’s initial trust in him, in spite of the crisis of the 2011 election, as it is, hopefully, the end of Awo’s curse.

Jega was, of course, helped tremendously by technology, mainly the use of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and Smart Card Readers (SCRs).

The technology, however, was merely a tool and it would never have been deployed if the man did not resolutely stand up to the powerful forces that did all they could to discredit the PVCs and SCRs. Not only did the man stand up to those against the use of technology to check election rigging, his courage and forbearance in the face of all moves by the same powerful forces to impugn his personal integrity was difficult, if not impossible, to match. Certainly, without such courage and forbearance the last ditch plot

HARDBALL Too dazed to reason It would seem that Okupe is still too stunned to accept that his boss was demonstrably defeated in the March 28 presidential poll, and still too dazed to reason out how it happened that an incumbent with alleged poor marks in governance was voted out of power. Also, which is worse, it would appear that Okupe may never be able to see Jonathan’s fall as a consequence of his administration’s failure to bring about the developmental transformation the people need.

Contrary to Okupe’s narrow reasoning, the abduction was not necessary to “present Jonathan’s administration as incompetent” since its incompetence was already selfevident. What the abduction exposed was the gargantuan extent of its incompetence. Okupe should reflect on whether the one-year-old unresolved kidnap is a testimony to the administration’s competence, if any.

It is disturbing that, considering Okupe’s role in the administration, he may not be the only one thinking this way. It is even worse that he may have been communicating the general

TONY MARINHO

by these same powerful forces to disrupt the announcement of the result of the presidential election when their defeat seemed imminent, as displayed by former Niger Delta Affairs minister, Elder Godsday Orubebe’s shameful tantrums against Jega on live television on March 31, would have succeeded.

And had it succeeded, the story would have been totally different from its happy ending for a country that has longed for a universally adjudged free, fair and credible election since Independence in 1960.

Re: Death of a quiet mystic Sir, A small oversight in your article of April 15. MD Yusufu was a grandchild of Muhammadu Dikko and not a great grandchild. His father, Yusufu Lamba, as he was popularly called, was the son of Dikko and the Magajin Garin Katsina at the time of Dikko’s death. +2348033498639.

Sir, I beg to differ on MD Yusuf’s so-called heroics. It was clear that Abacha only used him as a kite or red herring to deceive the Western nations that there was some form of opposition, no more, no less. +2348024607919.

Sir, You are a mischievous being. You tried to demean OBJ by attributing his handing over power to civilians (in 1979) to northerners around him. You are a tribal bigot! +2348037607722.

Sir, M. D. Yusufu was a true democrat with a passion to serve the people not to serve his pocket. +2348055594567.

Sir, You goofed last week when you wrote that OBJ was the first African military ruler to hand over power to a civilian regime. Contrary to the historical inaccuracy, it was General Akwasi Afrifa, a military ruler in Ghana, who handed over power to Dr. Kofi Busia in 1969. That was ten years before OBJ did so in Nigeria!

Femi Falana, SAN. Sir, This is just to respectfully observe that the political party which MD Yusufu founded in the Abacha transition era was named Movement for Democracy and Justice (MDJ) and not the Grassroots Democratic Movement as your article recorded.

Julius Ogar Sniperj2002@yahoo.com •MDJ was during OBJ’s Third Term bid between 2003 and 2007. MD Yusufu’s party during Abacha’s transition was GDM. MH. •For comments, send SMS to 08059100107

•Hardball is not the opinion of the columnist featured above thinking in Jonathan’s camp.

In a significant way, Okupe reflected the presidency’s incompetence when he said: “What is reasonable and expedient for wellmeaning men and women of good conscience is to dialogue with the incoming administration on what best new approach to employ to find and rescue the Chibok girls.”

When a spokesman speaks of focusing on “what best new approach to employ”, it can be interpreted as a sign, if not an admission, that the administration he represents has handled the issue incompetently.

Of course, incompetence must have consequences, and the incompetent must bear the consequences, never mind what Okupe seems to think. Interestingly, Okupe said: “Not much can be achieved, except mischief, by continuing to flog this administration on this matter.” The truth is that the Jonathan administration deserves to be continually flogged until it hands over power to the incoming Muhammadu Buhari administration. Beyond the first level, there is no doubt that the Jonathan presidency will be continually and deservedly flogged by history.

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