The Nation April 28, 2015 by The Nation

Newspaper of the Year

$370m Abacha loot found

•AND MORE ON PAGES 5,8,9&11

•Babatope gets knocks for backing ‘Ekiti illegality’ •Oyo tribunal gets 12 National Assembly polls petitions •President to Supreme Court: stop National Assembly •Ogun, Chinese firm sign $3b intra-city rail contract

NEWS

Page 5

•Nigeria’s widest circulating newspaper

VOL. 10, NO. 3198 TUESDAY, APRIL 28, 2015

•www.thenationonlineng.net

TR UTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM TRUTH

Mimiko gets new deputy as Ondo House sacks Olanusi

I’m ready for probe after tenure, says Jonathan From Augustine Ehikioya, Abuja

RESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan yesterday said he would be ready after leaving office for any probe of his administration’s activities. President-elect Muhammadu Buhari plans to revisit the $20b “missing” oil money when he gets into office. Besides, All Progressives Congress (APC) spokesman Lai Mohammed has alleged massive looting by government officials. But, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Continued on page 4

N150.00

•Alhaji Olanusi

HE cat and mouse relationship between Ondo State Governor Olusegun Mimiko and his deputy, Ali Olanusi, ended yesterday — in acrimony. They parted ways at the House of Assembly where 22 of the 25 lawmakers found Olanusi guilty of gross misconduct - the allegation levelled

•APC: impeachment won’t stand From Damisi Ojo, Akure

against him by Mimiko. Twenty four hours to the presidential election, Alhaji Olanusi defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC) - to the shock of his boss who

was the Southwest campaign coordinator of President Goodluck Jonathan. The President ran on the ticket of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Mimiko failed to deliver not only in the Southwest but remarkably also in Ondo State, where Dr. Jonathan Continued on page 4

•OBI IS SEC CHAIR •NHIS BOSS SACKED P9 NEPAL DEATH TOLL HITS 4,000 P59

The multi-billion dollar NNPC fraud, by auditors

•SEE ALSO PAGES 2,3&7

HIGHLIGHTS

Report: $4.29b should be refunded Knocks for NNPC’s model of operation NPDC blocks probe Kerosine subsidy scam exposed

$0.98b

•Subsidy overclaim on PMS & DPK by NNPC

$8.99b

• Natural cost of import for PMS & DPK

$9.97b

•The reconciliation committee’s figure

From Nduka Chiejina, Abuja

OW much is missing from the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation’s (NNPC’s) books - $20billion? $1.48billion? $4.29billion? The question remained unresolved yesterday – despite the release of the auditors’ report. But one fact is clear: the system is rotten. Former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor Sanusi Lamido Sanusi threw down the gauntlet in 2013 when he alleged that $20billion oil money was unremitted to the treasury. A committee set up by Finance Minister Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala said about $10billion was the figure. When auditing giant PriceWaterHouseCooper was brought in, it said, according to the government, that only $1.48 billion should have been remitted to the treasury. WILL THE The report, which the CHIBOK GIRLS Presidency released yesterKIDNAPPED ON APRIL 15, LAST day – apparently to clear itself of shielding corrupt ofYEAR EVER

RETURN?

Continued on page 4

$863m

•Cash request not captured by NPDC for FIRS

$839m

•Dr. Jonathan

President Jonathan is also deeply concerned by the continuing suggestions that his administration still has anything to hide about the unproven allegation that about $20billion is unaccounted for ...

•Gen. Buhari

...You all know what the Emir of Kano talked about ...when he said $20b, not naira, $20b was unaccounted for... Instead of investigating it, they sacked him...the new administration will take a look at it

•Alison-Madueke

I have said that during our time there are gaps in the NNPC and I said that openly. But I can also say that there is no time in Nigerian history in the oil and gas has NNPC been as open and audited as it is today

• Cash payments by NPDC to DPK not captured by Reconciliation Committee

$2.8b

•Pipeline maintenance & management

$73.85m

•Crude and product losses

•PROPERTY P16 •SPORTS P23 •POLITICS P47 •TRANSPORTATION P53 •FOREIGN P59

THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 28, 2015

NEWS

How NPDC

•Managing Director, Grand Oak Ltd, Akshay Kumar, receiving the Best Performance Trophy of Lexcel Group of Companies in Q1 from Commercial Director Aare Fatai Odesile at the the Group's Q1 Performance & Assessment Review in Lagos. With them is General Manager, Marketing, Brajesh Kumar (right) and Sales Operations Manager, Elder Dele Akinloye.

The Presidency yesterday released the report of the forensic audit carried out by Pricewaterhouse Coopers (PwC) on the alleged missing $20 billion oil cash. From the report, it is clear that the Nigerian Petroleum Development Company (NPDC) did not aid the diligent implementation of the audit firm’s mandate. PwC ran into some brickwalls in the course of its work. The key limitations were: inavailability of relevant NPDC personnel to give information on the company’s operations and NPDC’s failure to provide it with detailed breakdown of the crude oil assets, volume of allocations to Strategic Alliance Partners and list of receiving banks, account numbers and bank statements for crude proceeds. Excerpts of the report:

•Former Vice President Alhaji Atiku Abubakar (right) and President, Kaduna Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (KADCCIMA), Dr Abdul-alimi Bello at the seminar on: “Promoting domestic trade for national sustainable economic development” at the ongoing thirty-sixth Kaduna International Trade Fair in Kaduna...yesterday.

• From left: Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Fairtrade, Germany, Martin Maerz (left); Chief Operating Officer (COO) Nigerian-German Business Association, Jennifer Anoyika; Delegate of German Industry & Commerce in Nigeria, André Roenne and Fairtrade Manager, Dominik Rzepka at a news conference for the upcoming trade show tagged: “Agrofood and Plastprintpack” in Lagos.

•Marketing Manager, Vlisco, Adaeze Alilonu (left); winner, 2015 Vlisco Women's Month Award, Mrs. Dotun Akande and Vlisco Ambassador, Mrs. Adesuwa Onyenokwe at the yearly Vlisco Women's Month Award in Lagos…at the weekend.

ASED on the work conducted by our team from the commencement of this mandate up until 29 January 2015, our conclusions are as follows; •Total gross revenues generated from FGN crude oil liftings was $69.34bn and NOT $67 billion as earlier stated by the Reconciliation Committee for the period from January 2012 to July 2013. • Total cash remitted into the Federation accounts in relation to crude oil liftings was $50.81bn and NOT $47bn as earlier stated by the Reconciliation Committee for the period from January 2012 to July 2013. • NNPC has provided information on the difference leading to a potential excess remittance of $0.74 billion (without considering expected remittances from NPDC). Other indirect costs of $2.81 billion which were not part of the submission to the Senate Committee hearing have been defrayed to arrive at this position. • The resulting potential excess remittance indicates that the Corporation operates an unsustainable model. Forty six percent (46%) of proceeds of domestic crude oil revenues for the review period was spent on operations and subsidies. The Corporation is unable to sustain monthly remittances to the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC), and also meet its operational costs entirely from the proceeds of domestic crude oil revenues, and have had to incur third party liabilities to bridge the funding gap. Furthermore, the review period recorded international crude oil prices averaging $122.5 per barrel (Average Platts prices for 2012). As at the time of concluding this report, international crude oil prices average about $46.07 per barrel2, which is about sixty two percent (62%) reduction when compared to the crude oil prices for the review period. If the NNPC overhead costs and subsidies are maintained (assuming crude oil production volumes are maintained), the corporation may have to exhaust all the proceeds of domestic crude oil sales, and may still require third party liabilities to meet costs of operations and subsidies, and may not be able to make any remittances to FAAC. • We therefore recommend that the NNPCmodel of operationmust be urgently reviewed and restructured, as the current model which has been in operation since the creation of the Corporation cannot be sustained. • The report reflects the fact that $3.38 billion was spent on DPK subsidy for the review period. We also confirmed using third party vessel tracking platforms that all vessels carrying NNPC cargoes arrived in Nigeria within the periods disclosed by PPPRA. •A major consideration centers on the ownership of oil and gas assets controlled by NPDC. Subject to additional information being provided, we estimate that the NNPC and NPDC should refund to the Federation Account a minimum of $1.48 billion as summarised in the next page. • A determination is required as to whether all, or a portion of other costs

not directly attributable to crude oil operations can be defrayed by NNPC. We did not have access to NPDC’s full accounts and records and we have not ascertained the amount of costs and expenses which should be applied to the US$5.11 billion crude oil revenue (net of royalties and PPT paid) per the NPDC submission to the Senate Committee which should be considered as dividend payment by NPDC to NNPC for ultimate remittance to the Federation Account. • Between 12 January and 29 January 2015, NNPC provided transaction documents representing additional costs of $2.81 billion related to the review period, citing the NNPC Act LFN No 33 of 1977 that allows such deductions. Clarity is required on whether such deductions should be made by NNPC as a first line charge, before remitting the net proceeds of domestic crude to the federation accounts. If these are deemed not to be valid deductions, then the amount due from NNPC would be estimated at $2.07 billion (without considering expected known remittances from NPDC) or $4.29 billion (if expected known remittances from NPDC are considered). • The Corporation provided details of expenses to the tune of $12.97 billion related to the review period, funded from the proceeds of domestic crude oil revenues. •The Corporation represented that the potential excess remittance of $0.74 billion was funded from proceeds of PMS sales for which the suppliers of the PMS are yet to be paid in cash or crude oil. As at the time of concluding this report, details of the affected suppliers that funded this potential excess remittance are yet to be provided by the Corporation. • The analysis above and resulting potential excess remittance suggest the existence of liabilitiesto third parties incurred by the Corporation.We recommend the Corporation be required todisclose details of all existing liabilities and impact on proceeds of future crude oil sales. • The Corporation is expected to operate in accordance with the NNPC Act LFN No 33 of 1977 which states in Chapter 320 Part I subsection 7(4) as follows: “The Corporation shall maintain a fund which shall consist of(a) such moneys as may from time to time be provided by the Federal Government for the purposes of this Act by way of grants or loans or otherwise howsoever; and (b) such moneys as may be received by the Corporation in the course of its operations or in relation to the exercise by the Corporation of any of its functions under this Act, and from such fund there shall be defrayed all expenses incurred by the Corporation.” Accordingly, all the Corporations costs, and those of its loss making subsidiaries have been defrayed in the analysis provided by the Corporation for the review period. However, the profit making subsidiaries and dividends received have been excluded from the analysis provided. This suggests that there are other sources of net revenues available to the Corporation not currently disclosed. A proper estimate of the actual potential excess re-

THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 28, 2015

C frustrated forensic report on missing $20b, by PwC

* NNPC Towers, Abuja.

mittance/under-remittance can only be arrived at if all revenues and all costs of the Corporation and all its subsidiaries are accounted for in a consolidated position. A detailed review of this was beyond the scope of our mandate. We therefore recommend that NNPC be required to disclose the consolidated position of the Group and its subsidiaries, and expected remittances to the Federation accounts be determined from the available consolidated net revenues. Furthermore, the nature of costs that are allowable should be pre-determined by all relevant parties. We also recommend that the NNPC act be reviewed as the content contradicts the requirement for NNPC to be run as a commercially viable entity. It appears the act has given the Corporation a “Blank” cheque to spend money without limit or control. This is untenable and unsustainable and must be addressed immediately. The Corporation should be required to create value, and meet its expenses entirely from the value created. Proceeds from the FGN’s crude oil sales should be remitted entirely to the Federation accounts. Commisions for the Corporation services can then be paid based on agreed terms. Comments (I). We did not obtain any information directly from NPDC, but in accordance with NPDC former Managing Director’s (Mr Briggs Victor) submission to the Senate Committee hearing on the subject matter, for the period, NPDC generated $5.11billion (net of royalties and petroleum profits tax paid). We have relied on the legal opinion provided to the Senate Committee by the Attorney-General (AG) on the subject of the transfers of various NNPC (55%) portion of Oil Leases (OMLs) involved in the Shell (SPDC) Divestments which impact crude oil flows in the period. The AG’s opinion indicated that these transfers were within the authority of the Minister to make. Thus, these assets were validly transferred to NPDC. The same AG’s legal opinion also indicated that NPDC was to make payments for Net Revenue (dividend) to NNPC, which should ultimately be remitted to the Federation Account. A sale will mean the following should be due to be remitted to the Federation accounts 1. Petroleum Profit Taxes (PPT) 2. Royalties 3. Signature bonus payment 4. Dividend from profit for the period (according to dividend declared in line with NPDC’s dividend policy) We have not obtained any information that suggests that NPDC has been assessed for PPT and Royalty for the

review period. However, as disclosed by the former MD of NPDC at the senate hearing, NPDC had done a self assessment of PPT and Royalty and had unpaid self assessed PPT and Royalty to the tune of $0.47 billion related to the review period. In January 2015 (subsequent to our initial reported conclusions), we were availed with copies of Deeds of Assignment for OML’s 26,30,40,42.We were not provided with copies of Deeds of Assignment for OML’s 4,38,41,34.We were also provided with information which indicated that the various NNPC (55%) portion of Oil leases (OMLs) involved in the Shell Divestments related to the eight (8) OML’s aforestated, were transferred to NPDC for an aggregate Sum of US$1.85billion. So far, only the amount of US$100m had been remitted in relation to these assets. This means that the amount of US$1.75billion is yet to be remitted in relation to this transfer. In addition, by a comparison of the aggregate amount of US$1.85billion determined by DPR as the transfer value , and the (arm’s length) commercial value paid for by 3rd parties for between 30% to 45% divested by Shell, we arrive at an estimated Alternative Commercial Valuation of US$3.4 billion for the NNPC 55%. The point here is that while we appreciate that this is a government entity to government entity transaction, we had expected a transfer basis higher than the US$1.85 billion commercial value determined by DPR. We have not performed a professional valuation and therefore recommend that the valuation done by DPR be re-assessed. NNPC explained that these OML transfers were in the bid to encourage local participation in the Nigerian upstream Oil and Gas Industry. We also expect that NPDC should remit dividends to NNPC and ultimately the Federation Accounts, based on NPDC’s dividend policy and declaration of dividend for the review period. We did not have access to NPDC’s full accounts and records and we have not ascertained the amount of costs and expenses which should be applied to the US$5.11 billion crude oil revenue (net of royalties and PPT paid) per the NPDC submission to the Senate Committee hearing in order to arrive at the Net Revenue (in line with the AG’s opinion), which should be subjected to dividend remittance.We are also not aware that NPDC declared dividend for the review period. These matters need to be followed up for final resolution in terms of the NPDC Net Revenue (dividend) for crude oil relating to the transfers, PPT and royalty unremitted, and the trans-

fer price valuation and remittance. (II). We determined from information obtained from PPPRA that $3.38 billion relating to DPK subsidy cost was incurred by the NNPC for the review period.We obtained a letter, dated 19 October 2009 written by the Principal Secretary to the President, to the National Security Adviser (The following were in copy: Honourable Minister for Petroleum Resources, Honourable Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Group Managing Director NNPC, and the Executive Secretary PPPRA), confirming a Presidential directive of 15 June 2009 instructing that subsidy on DPK be stopped (Exhibit D7).We also obtained a letter dated 16 December 2010 from the Executive Secretary PPPRA to the CBN Governor clarifying that PPPRA had ceased granting subsidy on Kerosene since the Presidential directive of 15 June 2009 (Exhibit D8). Furthermore, Kerosene subsidy was not appropriated for in the 2012 and 2013 FGN budget. However, the Presidential directive was not gazetted and there has been no other legal instrument cancelling the subsidy on DPK. In a Presidential media chat on 24 February 2014, the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, asserted that kerosene subsidies have not been disallowed. We therefore recommend that an official directive be written to support the legality of the kerosene subsidy costs. This should also be followed by adequate budgeting and appropriation for the costs. Other Findings • For the period reviewed, we identified possible errors in the computation of crude oil prices at the NNPC that resulted in a $3.6 million shortfall in incomes to the Federation account. The major beneficiaries were Fujairah Refinery - $805,545, NNPC (KRPC/ WRPC) – $697,995 and NNPC (COMD) - $2,107,275. Subsequent to our identification of this issue, NNPC has amended the errors, and have reflected the amendments in the remittances to FAAC in October 2014. • Our review of the DPK sales process revealed that NNPC sells DPK to bulk DPK marketers in Nigeria at N40.90 per litre at a location on the coastal waterways (off shore Lagos). The expected/official regulated retail price of DPK in Nigeria is N50 per litre. This retail price of N50 comprises the Ex-depot price of N34.51 and aMargin of N15.49. NNPC should be required to explain the reason for selling

DPK at N40.90, rather than the regulated ex-depot price of N34.51. The Corporation should also be required to explain the reason for selling DPK to bulk DPK marketers at a location on the coastal waterways (off shore Lagos) rather than at the in-country depots. •The accounting and reconciliation system for crude oil revenues used by government agencies appear to be inaccurate and weak.We noted significant discrepancies in data from different sources. The lack of independent audit and reconciliation led to over reliance on data produced from NNPC. This matter is further compounded by the lack of independence within NNPC as the business has conflicting interests of being a stand-alone self-funding entity and also the main source of revenue to the Federation account. (2.2). Our approach to this mandate • It is important to note that although PwC has reviewed documents submitted by the key stakeholders involved, our work was conducted independently, and our findings are based on the review of documentation, analytical reviews of data, and interviews conducted. • Due to this approach, our findings and the way we presented them in this report may not necessarily reflect the formats of the various submissions made by the different stakeholders. • In certain instances where we were not provided with information or access to key stakeholders (Section 6.3.2 ) we leveraged on external and available sources of information to reach our conclusions. These external and available sources of information are clearly highlighted in the relevant sections of this report. • Any information and/or documentation which may come to our attention subsequent to the date of this report may alter our findings. • We have also listed some of the limitations to our scope in Section 3.2. •The procedures performed and specific limitations to scope are also discussed under thevarious work stream sections. •Based on specific instructions from the Auditor General for the Federation, we returned to do additional work, after NNPC had represented that our initial process did not provide an opportunity for formal discussions of our findings with top management, in the form of an exit interview. • With the exception of the Deputy Group Managing Director/Group Executive Director Finance and Accounts of NNPC, the Auditor-General for the Federation, and the Honourable Minister of Petroleum Resources, we have not discussed the findings of this report

with any stakeholder. •Our work was split into two work streams as follows; (1). We estimated how much revenue is due to the FGN from crude oil liftings; and (2). We reconciled the revenues due to the FGN against the actual cash received by the federation. • Our findings and conclusions considered the impact of some matters which require legal opinion to be sought by the FGN. PwC estimated revenue from crude oil lifting ($69.34 billion) This is the total amount of revenue from crude oil liftings during the review period, after increasing A by the adjustments in B. (D) Direct Costs ($2.65 billion) This represents the total expenses incurred and/deducted directly by NNPC (from crude oil revenues) where supporting documents were provided to PwC. Source: PPMC’s Schedule of Costs, Reconciliations signed off by traders and NNPC, PwC Analysis These costs relate to amounts incurred by NNPC (and its subsidiaries) in executing its mandate. We observed that there were documents supporting these expenses. For the purpose of this report, PwC has included these expenses as verified, andtreated them as legitimately incurred in the process of the Corporation executing its mandate. (E) This represents the revenues due to NPDC from crude oil sale for the period from January 2012 to July 2013. The balances used in this analysis were obtained from the submissions made by the former MD of NPDC Mr Victor Briggs, during the Senate Committee hearings.We could not find proof or evidence that these revenues were remitted by NPDC/NNPC into the Federation Accounts Verified costs (NPDC yet to complete payment for assigned assets). It is important to note that the relationship between NNPC and NPDC as itrelates to OMLs 30, 34, 40, 26, 4, 38, 41, 42 controlled by NPDC, is a key limitation to our scope.We had no access to NPDC management; our work relied on discussions with NNPC management (Section 6.3.2) and review of submissions to the senate (Exhibit A1). From our reviews of the NNPC Act (section 6(1 c & d)), we noted that the Corporation is empowered: (c) to enter into contracts or partnerships with any company, firm or person which in the opinion of the Corporation will facilitate the discharge of the said duties under this Act; (d) to establish and maintain subsidiaries for the discharge of such functions as the Corporation may determine; Sections 6(1c & d) are critical to establishing the nature of sale of these OMLs. We have analysed these as follows: Factors supporting a sale (1). NPDC paid taxes and royalties with a total of $1.7 billion.We have not been able to establish the assets on which these taxes and royalties were paid. However, the practice of payment of these statutory deductions suggests that the revenues from the related assets belong to the company. According to NPDC’s submission at the senate hearing, NPDC has not been assessed for royalty and PPT for the review period by DPR and FIRS respectively. The Company made part payments based on estimates. (2). Existence of a Deed of Assignment: As part of our work, we were informed of a document (Deed of Assignment) that transferred the assets from NNPC to NPDC.We were availed with copies of Deeds of Assignment for OML’s 26,30,40,42.We were not provided with copies of Deeds of Assignment for OML’s 4,38,41,34. (3). An outright sale to NPDC means that NPDC would be expected to make a payment to the Federation accounts for procuring the asset. DPR assigned a total value of $1.85 billion dollars as reasonable amounts •Continued on page 7

THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 28, 2015

NEWS ‘I’m ready for probe after tenure’ Continued from page 1

•A member of the Indian Air Force carries a Nepalese child in Saturday’s earthquake to a waiting ambulance in Kathmandu…yesterday.

Mimiko gets new deputy as Ondo House sacks Olanusi Continued from page 1

was floored by Gen. Buhari.

Olanusi later explained that he had been having a raw deal with his boss who defected from the Labour Party (LP) where they both were to the PDP without informing him. Last week, the House of Assembly directed the Chief Judge to raise a panel to probe the allegations against Olanusi, who insisted that he was never served the impeachment notice. The panel sat for a few hours and sent a report, which the House accepted yesterday, impeaching Olanusi and approving Mimiko’s recommendation of Alhaji Lassisi Oluboyo, the Commissioner for Agriculture, as deputy governor. The lawmakers impeached Olanusi following a recommendation of a report submitted by the seven-man panel, headed by retired Magistrate Olatunji Adeniyan, which was constituted by Chief Judge Olasehinde Kumuyi to investigate the seven allegations levelled against Olanusi. The report submitted by the

Impeachment can’t stand, says APC

HE All Progressives Congress (APC) yesterday rejected the impeachment of Ondo State Deputy Governor Ali Olanusi. It said the process leading to his removal violated provisions of the impeachment clause in the 1999 Constitution. The party said the House of Assembly’s action was in disobedience of a court order which asked all parties to maintain the status quo in a suit the deputy governor filed challenging the plot to impeach him. The party’s National Vice Chairman in charge of SouthWest, Chief Pius Akinyelure, faulted Olanusi’s impeachment, noting that the decision of the Assembly, which he said acted as Governor Olusegun Mimiko’s rubber stamp, would not stand. Akinyelure described the impeachment as a mockery of constitutional order, which he said Mimiko and members of the Assembly swore to uphold. panel to Speaker Jumoke Akindele reads: “Placing reliance on the meaning of gross misconduct as defined in Section 188 (11) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 as amended, we hereby

Wale Ajetunmobi and Leke Akeredolu, Akure

He said despite the decision of a High Court sitting in Akure, that all parties should maintain the status quo until the substantive suit is determined, the House went ahead to impeach the deputy governor. He said the House of Assembly committed three infractions to the 1999 Constitution in the process of removing the deputy governor, who had travelled out of the country for medical check-up before the impeachment procedures started. He cited the violation of Section 188(2) (b) of the 1999 Constitution, stipulating that the Speaker of the House of Assembly “shall, within seven days of the receipt of the notice of impeachment, cause a copy of the notice to be served on the holder of the office and on each member of the House of Assembly and

find that the allegations of gross misconduct levelled against the Ondo State Deputy Governor are established.” Majority Leader Olugbenga Akinsoyinu moved the motion for Olanusi’s impeachment. It

Continued on page 60

was seconded by Deputy Majority Leader Oyebo Aladetan. Speaker Akindele thereafter put the motion to the House and all the 22 lawmakers at the plenary voted in favour of impeachContinued on page 60

Publicity, Dr. Reuben Abati, the President said he is not afraid of any investigation after leaving office. He noted that investigations will not be out of place since Jonathan’s Administration also reviewed the actions of previous governments on assumption of office. He said: “As Alhaji Mohammed threatened in his statement, the incoming administration will be perfectly within its rights to review all actions of the present government as it may deem fit. “We see nothing wrong with that. After all, the present Administration reviewed the actions of previous governments on assumption of office with resultant benefits for policy and project implementation.” Abati added that President Jonathan ordered the immediate release of the report of PriceWaterCooper’s investigations into the alleged unremitted $20 billion to the Federation account by the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC). He said: “President Jonathan is also deeply concerned by the continuing suggestions that his administration still has anything to hide about the unproven allegation that about $20billion is unaccounted for by the NNPC during his tenure. “To lay the matter to rest, President Jonathan in line with Section 7(2) of the NNPC Act, has directed that the full report of the PWC Forensic Audit of the NNPC accounts be released immediately to the public so that all Nigerians will be properly informed on the matter.” Denying the allegations by Mohammed, Abati said: “We have noted with concern the allegation by the spokesman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Alhaji Lai Mohammed, that

officials of the Federal Government are engaged in “last minute looting of the nation’s resources, rushed privatisation of key institutions and hurried recruitment into the public service”. “We also consider as most unfortunate and uncharitable, the suggestion by Alhaji Mohammed that the Jonathan Administration is trying to ‘tie the hands’ of the incoming government merely by continuing to discharge its constitutional responsibilities until the end of its tenure.” “The Jonathan Administration which continues to do its best to ensure a smooth and peaceful handover of power to the President-elect, General Muhammadu Buhari, deeply regrets the unfairness and combative frame of mind reflected in Alhaji Mohammed’s statement.” According to him, President Jonathan has done his best in the past five years to discharge his constitutional responsibilities for good governance and effective leadership of the nation. Abati said: “Without any prejudice whatsoever to the freedom of the incoming administration to do as it pleases, within the confines of extant laws when it assumes office, the Jonathan Administration will continue to discharge its responsibility to govern until May 29, 2015. “In continuing to fulfil the obligations of his office however, President Jonathan has not, and will never condone any form of unscrupulous conduct on the part of state officials.” He maintained that President Jonathan will never authorise any attempt to create any problems for the incoming administration, stressing that the outcome of the March 28 presidential elections does not imply a cessation of governance.

The multi-billion dollar NNPC fraud, by auditors Continued from page 1

ficials – said the oil giant should have refunded $4.29billion. Besides, the report opened a can of worms, returning a damning verdict on NNPC’s operations. The Nigeria Petroleum Development Corporation (NPDC), according to the auditors, was hostile. It made its job difficult. Petroleum Minister Mrs Diezani Alison-Madueke said last week that $1.48billion was unremitted, adding that the NPDC was already returning cash. The NNPC, said the report, was making deductions in its revenue before remitting funds to the treasury. PwC stated: “Clarity is required on whether such deductions should be made by NNPC as a first line charge, before remitting the net proceeds of domestic crude to the federation accounts. If these are deemed not to be valid deductions, then the amount due from NNPC would be estimated at $2.07 billion (without considering expected known remittances from NPDC) or $4.29 billion (if expected known remittances from NPDC are considered).” PwC came to this conclusion because between 12 January and 29 January 2015, the audit firm confirmed that “NNPC

provided transaction documents representing additional costs of $2.81 billion related to the review period, citing the NNPC Act LFN No 33 of 1977 that allows such deductions”. PwC said it did not have access to NPDC’s full accounts and records “and we have not ascertained the amount of costs and expenses which should be applied to the $5.11billion crude oil revenue (net of royalties and PPT paid) per the NPDC submission to the Senate Committee which should be considered as dividend payment by NPDC to NNPC for ultimate remittance to the Federation Account.” There were suggestions that the NNPC cooked the books. The oil giant, the audit firm said, “provided information on the difference leading to a potential excess remittance of $0.74 billion (without considering expected remittances from NPDC). Other indirect costs of $2.81billion, which were not part of the submission to the Senate Committee hearing have been defrayed to arrive at this position.” In its comments section, PwC noted that it did not obtain any information directly from NPDC, “but in accordance with NPDC former Managing Director’s (Mr Briggs Victor’s) submission to the Senate Committee hearing on the subject mat-

ter, for the period, NPDC generated $5.11billion (net of royalties and petroleum profits tax paid).” As a result, PwC said it relied on the legal opinion provided to the Senate Committee by the Attorney General (AG), Mr Bello Adoke “on the subject of the transfers of various NNPC (55%) portion of Oil leases (OMLs) involved in the Shell (SPDC) Divestments which impact crude oil flows in the period. The AG’s opinion indicated that these transfers were within the authority of the minister to make.” If this is true, PwC believes “these assets were validly transferred to NPDC. The same AG’s Legal Opinion also indicated that NPDC was to make payments for Net Revenue (dividend) to NNPC, which should ultimately be remitted to the Federation Account.” Some of the limitations encountered by the auditing firm, which affected its findings, were: •inavailability of NPDC personnel to provide information on its processes; •non-response of NPDC to request for detailed breakdown of the crude oil assets transferred to NPDC; •volume of allocations to Strategic Alliance Partners per partner and list of receiving banks;

•account numbers and bank statements for NPDC crude proceeds. “We encountered some limitations in the course of executing some aspects of our scope of work. The key limitations were: Unavailability of relevant NPDC personnel to provide information on the NPDC’s processes particularly around its operations, business objectives and internal accounting/financial reporting, etc; change of management at NPDC during the course of the engagement, which further contributed to our inability to successfully obtain responses to our request for information; non-response of NPDC to our request letter, which meant that we weren’t provided with the following requests: •Detailed breakdown of the crude oil assets transferred to NPDC. •Terms of divestment and contract documents involving the assets taken over. •Strategic Alliance agreements between NPDC and counterparties. •Monthly volume allocations to Strategic Alliance Partners per partner. •Monthly balance of NPDC crude over-lifts by Strategic Alliance partners. •List of receiving banks, account numbers and bank statements for NPDC crude pro-

ceeds.” The report added: “We did not have access to NPDC’s full accounts and records and we have not ascertained the amount of costs and expenses which should be applied to the $5.11billion Crude Oil revenue (net of royalties and PPT paid) per the NPDC submission to the Senate Committee which should be considered as dividend payment by NPDC to NNPC for ultimate remittance to the Federation Account.” The firm said working with the documents made available to it, it established that the gross revenues generated from Federal Government’s crude oil liftings was $69.34bn and not $67 billion as stated by the Reconciliation Committee for the period from January 2012 to July 2013. It also found out that the cash remitted into the Federation Accounts in relation to crude oil liftings was $50.81bn and not $47b as stated by the Reconciliation Committee. It said this amount was arrived at because “ (Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation) NNPC has provided information on the difference leading to a potential excess remittance of $0.74 billion (without considering expected remittances from NPDC). Other indirect costs of $2.81billion, which were not part of the submission to the Senate Commit-

tee hearing, have been defrayed to arrive at this position.” The report observed that the “resulting potential excess remittance indicates that the Corporation operates an unsustainable model”. The report states that “the Corporation is unable to sustain monthly remittances to the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC), and also meet its operational costs entirely from the proceeds of domestic crude oil revenues, and have had to incur third party liabilities to bridge the funding gap. Furthermore, the review period recorded international crude oil prices averaging $122.5 per barrel (Average Platts prices for 2012). As at the time of concluding this report, international crude oil prices average about $46.07 per barrel, which is about sixty two percent (62%) reduction when compared to the crude oil prices for the review period. If the NNPC overhead costs and subsidies are maintained (assuming crude oil production volumes are maintained), the corporation may have to exhaust all the proceeds of domestic crude oil sales, and Continued on page 60

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THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 28, 2015

NEWS

$370m Abacha money traced to Luxembourg

HE Swiss government has closed its doors to Nigerians with ill-gotten wealth as they will now have to prove that the money they want to lodge in the country’s banks were legally earned. The Swiss Ambassador to Nigeria, Hans Rudolf Hodel, who broke the news after a meeting with President-elect Muhammadu Buhari, also said about $370 million of Abacha money had been traced by the Swiss government to an account in Luxembourg. Rudolf Hodel said in the past, the banks only needed to prove that the money deposited with them are legitimate, adding that depositors now need to prove that they acquired their money legally before they can be allowed to deposit money in any bank. He described the collaboration between Nigeria and the Swiss government in fighting corruption as a long standing issue, saying: “Our laws are there to help all countries which are fighting corruption. We will help this government. “If you remember, many years ago, we gave back the Abacha money to Nigeria. The situation in Switzerland has changed. The policy is no longer the same. In the past, people came to deposit money in Switzerland without too much con-

• Swiss govt closes door to looters From Tony Akowe, Abuja

troversy. Now, it is not possible to deposit money in Switzerland because of legal origin. “Before now, the bank had to prove that the money was legal. But now, before you deposit money in any Swiss bank, you have to prove that you have earned that money legally. “If you are a wealthy businessman, you have money in billions legally, but if, for example as a journalist, you come to Switzerland with two million dollars and say you earned it because you did a very good job, nobody will believe you.” The ambassador said the Nigerian government and the Abacha family had sought legal assistance from the Swiss government to enable them retrieve the money, pointing out that the Swiss government offered legal assistance. Swiss government is directly involved since the money is not in a Swiss bank, he said. Saying he was not aware of

any Abacha money left in his country, the ambassador said: “Recently, there was another request by Nigeria to the Swiss authority to look for Abacha money and some amount has been found in an account, but in Luxembourg. That is now between the Abacha family and the government. They have tried to find a deal so that this money can also come back.” Asked how much was involved and when the money will be returned to Nigeria, Hodel said: “The recent one is $370 million. The Swiss government is not involved. The Nigerian government has asked for legal assistance. When the government makes a request to my government, we work together on it. But this case is different. “That is the Abacha family directly with the Nigerian government finding a deal. So, the Swiss government is not involved and the money is in Luxembourg. They have asked for legal assistance and we

have provided them with this information. It is not a classical case and we would have preferred a classical case where we can give the money back and make sure that it’s used in the interest of the people. Now it is up to the Nigerian government.” On what he discussed with Gen. Buhari, he said: ”Even if the relations are perfect, there is always room for improvement. Investors are looking towards Nigeria and it is a good example Nigeria gave to the world by its peaceful election. “I congratulate the presidentelect for this fantastic election, and indeed the whole Nigerian people, which has shown the world what they are capable of doing and with this election Nigeria has become an example not only to Africa but to the whole world on how elections can be conducted. I think Nigeria can be proud on the image of the country in the last few days and weeks. I, as ambassador, am proud to serve in

this era.” The Cuban government has promised to collaborate with the incoming administration on health care delivery. Cubans are ready to share their experience in comprehensive health care delivery with Nigeria. The Cuban Ambassador to Nigeria, Carlos E. Trejo Sosa, said after a meeting with General Buhari that Nigeria is very dear to the people of Cuba, adding that: “Nigerians are in the root of Cuban nation. “More than 80% of people who came to Cuba in 19th century from Africa came from Nigeria, which means the blood running in the vein of Cuban nation is partially Nigerian blood. So, our coming here means we have come to the home of our forefather.” He said Cuba had achieved a lot in medicine, sports and others which are available for Nigerians in the last 15 years, pointing out that Cuba’s health care became one of the best in the world. Sosa said: “First of all, Cuba’s collaboration with African countries is not new and not difficult. If you remember a

large number of Cuba people, who are doctors came to West Africa to fight Ebola, the first contingent of doctors. “We have doctors in almost all African countries, about six thousand Cuban doctors working in Africa. We also have about 50,000 doctors working in Latin America and in some other places, so it means that if necessary, as request by Nigerian government, we can come and share our experiences about the comprehensive system of health care. Cuba is not known to kill people but to prevent people from being sick.” The President-elect had earlier told Sosa, that his generation would continue to cherish the spectacular performance of Cuba’s revolutionary leaders - Che Geuevera and Fidel Castro - who he described as nationalist per excellence. He said he admired the unique social structure and system of the state, especially given the rapid development that has been achieved by the island nation, and expressed happiness at the restoration of normal ties between Cuba and the United States.

Presidency denies recalling envoys From Augustine Ehikioya, Abuja

HE Presidency has denied recalling Nigeria’s Charge De Affairs to South Africa over the xenophobic attacks in the country. The Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Dr. Reuben Abati, in a statement, said there was a mix up and misinformation on the matter. He said the Charge d’Affaires was only invited by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for routine consultation. He said: “It is not true that Nigeria has recalled its envoy in South Africa on account of recent xenophobic attacks in that country. “There is a mix up and misinformation on the matter. The truth is that Nigeria has not recalled his envoy from South Africa. “What has been done is to invite the Charge D’Affaires in that country for routine consultation by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. “Recall of envoy is a serious and sensitive matter that has not happened.”

•The Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund's pensioners protesting over non-payment of their arrears in Abuja...yesterday.

PHOTO: NAN

Constitution amendment: Jonathan urges Supreme Court to stop Senate, Reps P RESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan has intensified his effort to prevent the National Assembly from overriding his veto of the amendment effected on the Constitution by the National Assembly. The President, through the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), has applied to the Supreme Court for an injunction restraining the lawmakers from acting on the amendment - the Fourth Alteration Act 2015 - pending the determination of an earlier suit he filed urging the court

From Eric Ikhilae, Abuja

to declare the amendment unconstitutional. The President, in the substantive suit also filed by the AGF, argued that the purported Fourth Alteration Act 2015 was not passed with the mandatory requirement of fourfifth majority of members of the National Assembly and the mandatory due processes provided for under the relevant sections of the Constitution. It is part of the President’s prayers in the main suit that

the Supreme Court nullifies and sets aside sections 3, 4, 12, 14, 21, 23, 36, 39, 40, 43 and 44 of the Fourth Alteration Act, 2015, purportedly passed by the National Assembly. In the fresh application for interlocutory injunction, the President prayed the Supreme Court to restrain the lawmakers from carrying through their threat to override his veto, even with the pendency of the substantive suit.

Among the grounds on which he hinged the application was that the National Assembly was determined to proceed with passing the constitution by overriding the veto of same despite the fundamental nature of the issues raised against it. He stated that it was more in the interest of the country that the issues in the substantive suit be resolved one way or the other before the National Assembly can proceed

further on the proposed alterations to the constitution. The applicant stated in a supporting affidavit that Minority Whip of the House of Representative, Samson Osagie, reportedly vowed at a news conference that the Legislature will override the President’s veto despite the suit. The applicant said the balance of convenience was in favour of the resolution of the suit before any further step could be taken on the Bill. No date is scheduled yet for hearing in the case.

Fed Govt names Abuja streets after Jonathan, Sambo, Atiku, others

HE Federal Government, through the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Administration, has honoured eminent Nigerians and other accomplished Africans by naming major streets in Abuja as well as expressways and roads after them. FCT Minister Senator Bala Mohammed said this yesterday during the FCT Executive Committee meeting held at his Life Camp, Gwarinpa official residence. Mohammed named those who were honoured with street naming as including

From Gbenga Omokhunu and Grace Obike, Abuja

President Goodluck Jonathan; Vice President Namadi Sambo; former Vice President Atiku Abubakar; the late former Senate President Dr. Chuba Okadigbo; former Speaker of House of Representatives and Katsina State governor-elect Aminu Bello Masari; former Chief Justice of the Federation Justice Dahiru Musdapha; business moguls Femi Otedola, Aliko Dangote; and several others. The soon-to-be commis-

sioned Inner Southern Expressway, which dissects Abuja city centre, was named after Jonathan. The longest Wuye district boulevard express road measuring 1,730 metres was named after Atiku. Another major road in the same district was named after Sambo. According to a statement by the Special Assistant on Media to the Minister, Nosike Ogbuenyi, other prominent personalities also honoured by naming streets after them in Asokoro extension district include former Secretary Gen-

eral of the United Nations Mr. Kofi Anan; the late South African anti-Apartheid activist, late Walter Sisulu; former President of Sudan Gaafar alNimeiry; the late former Minister of State for FCT, Prof. Miriam Ikejiani-Clark; former Chief Justice of the Federation Justice Idris Legbo Kutigi and 16 others. Those having roads and streets named after them in Guzape district include former FCT Minister and Kaduna State Governor-elect Malam Nasir El-Rufai; the late former Inspector-General of

Police, Sunday Adewusi; former Science and Technology Minister Major-Gen. Sam Momah; the late former Special Duties Minister, Alhaji Wada Nas; the late former Attorney General of the Federation, Mr. Clement Akpamgbo; the incumbent FCT Minister and 60 others. The statement reads in part: “Some Nigerians who had distinguished themselves in various sporting activities were also among those honoured with Abuja streets named after them. “They include first Nigeri-

an single Olympic gold medalist, Chioma Ajunwa; first Nigerian footballer to have scored in FIFA senior world cup competition, the late Rashidi Yekini; former world wrestling champion, late Power Mike Okpala; first Nigerian to win World Boxing title, Dick Tiger Ihetu; and the youngest Nigerian to play at the African Cup of Nations, Mr. Daniel Amokachi. They all had streets named after them in Wupa district.” Others personalities were also honoured in other parts of FCT.

THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 28, 2015

NEWS Tambuwal urges new legislators to make welfare of citizens priority

PEAKER of the House of Representatives Aminu Tambuwal has said the welfare of the people should be the priority of the 8th National Assembly. According to him, this could only be achieved through people-oriented legislative responsibilities. Tambuwal spoke in Abuja on Sunday night at the induction of incoming federal legislators. He said the new members should strive to exceed the performance of the 7th Assembly, which passed 108 of the over 481 Bills that were introduced on the floor of the House of Representatives since inauguration from June 2011. According to him, the House introduced a total of 825 motions of which 554 were referred to committees and another 162 passed as resolutions. Saying that there was a huge challenge for the 8th Assembly to perform better than the outgoing Assembly, Tambuwal urged the lawmakers to aggressively pursue principles of good governance and work diligently to promote growth

From Victor Oluwasegun and Dele Anofi, Abuja

and development. He noted that the parliament was a critical component and necessary ingredient of democracy and good governance which requires the existence of a strong legislature. “It is time to promote national integration and participatory governance through inclusiveness, freedom, equality, Justice, transparency, accountability, the rule of law equitable use of the national resources and equal opportunities for all, in order to secure the maximum welfare, freedom and happiness of the citizenry. “These are core ingredients of good governance which every government, freely elected by the people, is expected to put into effect,” he added. In her remarks, the Director General, Nigerian Institute of Legislative Studies, Dr. Ladi Hamalai, said the induction course was to prepare the incoming legislators with the relevant tools required for the complex and daunting task of legislation and governance.

NGE convention: Ajimobi, Kalu greet Adesina on re-election

YO State Governor Abiola Ajimobi and former Abia State Governor Orji Kalu have described the re-election of Mr. Femi Adesina as the president of Nigeria Guild of Editors (NGE) as a reward for robust leadership and unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism. Ajimobi, in a congratulatory message in Ibadan yesterday by his Special Adviser on Media, Dr. Festus Adedayo, acknowledged that Adesina’s reelection was borne out of his noteworthy and commendable contributions to best journalism practice in the country in the last two years. “I am not surprised by Mr. Adesina’s re-election, having followed his activities and leadership style since he took up the mantle of leadership of the NGE two years ago. “He has exhibited uncommon commitment to the advancement of journalism and adherence to the ethics of the profession. Mr. Adesina has brought his gentlemanly personality and courteous approach to issues to his leadership, a feat that has paid off with his re-election,’’ the governor said. Ajimobi expressed the opti-

By Kelvin Osa-Okubor

mism that his leadership for another two years would further elevate journalism to an enviable standard and boost the image of the Guild. Kalu, who is the publisher of New Telegraph and The Sun, described the Adesina as a seasoned media professional, who has contributed immensely to journalism in Nigeria. He noted that the re-election of the managing director and Editor-in-Chief of The Sun as president of NGE was a testimony to the goodwill he had built among his colleagues and other stakeholders in the media industry. In a goodwill message by his Special Adviser, Kunle Oyewumi, Kalu said: “I extend my special regards to my colleague, Mr. Femi Adesina, who returned as NGE President unopposed. It is a clear indication that since he assumed office two years ago, he has been able to consolidate on the achievements of his predecessor in the interest of the association. I have no doubt that Mr. Adesina will continue to steer the ship of the body without bias so as to take the body to the promised land.”

Makarfi backs Buhari on missing $20b

HE Chairman of Senate Committee on Finance, Ahmed Mohammed Makarfi, has supported the plan by the President-elect, Muhammadu Buhari, to investigate alleged missing $20 billion from the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC). Makarfi, who spoke with The Nation in Abuja yesterday, said the National Assembly has been kept in the dark over the forensic report undertaken by the PriceWaterHouseCoopers on the missing oil money. According to him, following the release of the forensic report, the Senate Committee on Finance wrote the Auditor General of the Federation, the

From Blessing Olaifa, Assistant Editor, Abuja

Ministries of Finance and Petroleum to make the report available to the National Assembly. He said to the chagrin of the National Assembly members, the Ministries of Finance and Petroleum ignored the letters. He said it was regrettably that only the Auditor-General, Ukura Samuel, replied the letter by saying that he could only furnish the National Assembly with the report on the instruction of President Goodluck Jonathan or that the National Assembly, through the committee, should itself write the President requesting for a copy.

•Front row: President-elect Muhammadu Buhari (third right); Nasarawa State Governor Umaru Al-Makura (second left); Emir of Lafia Dr. Isa Mustafa (left), and others when the Nasarawa delegation visited the president-elect in Abuja...yesterday. PHOTO: NAN

Mark faults Fed Govt over court action

ENATE President David Mark yesterday criticised the Federal Government for taking the National Assembly before the Supreme Court over some sections of the Constitution Amendment Bill. The Federal Government had invoked the original jurisdiction of the Supreme Court to scuttle the ongoing amendment process of the 1999 Constitution by the National Assembly. The government claimed that the National Assembly did not comply with the constitutional procedure of altering the constitution before transmitting it to President Goodluck Jonathan for assent. Mark, who spoke while answering questions from reporters at the induction course for elected and returning federal lawmakers in Abuja, said he could not understand the rationale for the said suit.

•Ekweremadu: we’ve not been served From Onyedi Ojiabor, Assistant Editor and Sanni Onogu, Abuja

Mark said: “The President has taken a bill to the court and you heard people saying it is a bill at the moment, unless it is signed. I really don’t see why they are in court. But anybody can go to court. So, I can’t stop you from going to court, can I?” But, the Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu, said the National Assembly was not aware that the Presidency has taken the legislature to court over the Fourth Alteration to the constitution. Ekweremadu, who is the chairman, Senate Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution, said the National Assembly has not been served any court process regarding the constitution alteration.

Also yesterday, EKweremadu advised the Executive not to interfere in the election of presiding officers for both chambers of the National Assembly. He noted that all past efforts at imposing leadership on any arm of the National Assembly backfired. He urged newly elected lawmakers to respect the principle of ranking already established in both chambers as it would ultimately benefit them. Ekweremadu said: “The concept of leadership is the same everywhere and it is about positive influence, transformation and goal actualisation. Even within families and animals like ants, when they are moving, there is always a leader. “In the past, some Nigerians

tried to impose principal officers on the NASS. We recall that when Ghali Na’Abba was having issues in the House, they were able to resolve it because there was no external influence, but we had a running battle with the Executive when Patricia Etteh was Speaker because of the support of the Executive and we saw what happened. “So, it is advisable to allow the legislators to elect their principal officers without interference. “In the NASS, we have laiddown provisions for principal officers and one is the issue of ranking. As a new legislator, you have to accept this provision that ranking officers are elected because tomorrow you may be a beneficiary, so it is good for this provision to be sacrosanct.”

My concern for the Senate, by Akume

HE Senate Minority Leader Senator George Akume said yesterday that his concern is how to evolve a very strong and stable Senate. Also yesterday, Chairman Senate Committee on Public Accounts, Senator Ahmad Lawan (Yobe North), said the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB) may not be passed soon due to some of its controversial contents. Akume, who spoke with reporters in Abuja, said the Senate could not afford to fail in view of the enormous expectation of the people. He said he would not comment on his ambition to be Senate President in the 8th Senate, but would rather allow the will of God to be done. When asked to react to the fact that people were seeing him as the possible next Senate President, Akume said: “Basically, my concern is to work along with my colleagues for the purpose of having a very stable legislature - a legislature that is strong and independent enough and that is prepared to work for the benefit of the people. “Much is expected from us

•Lawan: why PIB may not be passed soon From Onyedi Ojiabor, Assistant Editor and Sanni Onogu, Abuja

and we cannot afford to fail. I am not talking about the Senate’s presidency now. I just want to say that each senator is capable of presiding over affairs of the legislature. “I am a senator first and foremost and I know that anything can follow if it is the will of God.” Lawan said the PIB might not be passed soon unless its controversial provisions are removed. He said: “The PIB was left pending in the 6th and 7th Assembly and it will be left pending in the 8th Assembly, if it is not drafted properly. “There are so many contentious provisions or clauses in the PIB in the 7th Senate and we argued against the passage of the Bill provided those clauses remain in the Bill. I think the new government will have an opportunity to take a holistic look at the provisions and maybe achieve a compromise after horse-trading or make it a more panNigerian bill, so that every

part of Nigeria will feel accommodated. “In the bill, so much power was given to the Minister of Petroleum Resources. We are not going to give the Minister of Petroleum such powers than the President has. “So, there are so many things against the bill. No matter what someone would say, we represent constituencies and senatorial districts. I account for my actions here in my senatorial district in Yobe and there is no way I can be part of the passage of PIB without getting some of these clauses that are controversial, that are anti my people reworked. “But I believe this time around because the All Progressives Congress (APC) is in control, there would be justice for everyone.” A senator-elect, Ben Murray Bruce, yesterday said there was need for the incoming government of the APC to begin a movement to protect the poor. He insisted that the major challenge in the polity is that people seek public office to enrich themselves.

He added: “That must stop. When you seek public office you must care about the poor people who voted you into office. “The people who voted me into office live under the tree. The people who voted some of my colleagues into office live in the desert. Some live under the bridge like in Lagos and other cities. “So, they are poor they live on two dollars or one dollar a day. So, when we seek public office, our main concern is to protect, give them hope and make it possible for them to live. “When we come into office and we live this exorbitant lifestyle, then we have failed them.” On her part, Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly and Senator-elect, Monsurat Sunmonu, said she would champion issues concerning women empowerment during her stay in the Senate among others. She called for more opportunities for Nigerian women so they can perform like renowned women in other climes.

THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 28, 2015

NEWS

How NPDC frustrated forensic report on missing $20b, by PwC •Continued from page 3 to be paid for the eight OML’s in consideration, out of which the Corporation had paid $100 million. An outright sale will also require dividend remittance by NPDC to NNPC (and thus the FGN), depending on the dividend policy of NPDC (NNPC is the sole owner of NPDC). See analysis of NPDC’s submission at the Senate hearing below: Analysis of NPDC submissions Description Amount ($). Total revenues from NPDC assets 6,815,188,626. Total PPT paid (863,000,000). Total Royalties paid (838,991,619). Total revenues less payment already made 5,113,197,007. Senate hearing submissions, PwC analysis. Total amounts estimated to have been withheld by NPDC on assumption of a sale of the divested assets is $5.11 billion. (F). This reflects amounts deducted by NNPC as subsidy claims on PMS $5.32 billion & DPK - $3.38 billion (Total $8.70 billion). These costs were verified based on documents received from PPPRA.We have however deducted the errors noted in these documents, before arriving at the verified amounts. Verified costs requiring legal opinion. The FGN should seek legal opinion on: (1). Legitimacy of DPK subsidy We were not provided with any document evidencing the Federal Government’s approval for the continuation of DPK subsidy. However, in a Presidential media chat on 24 February 2014, The President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, confirmed the Federal Government’s position, that the kerosene subsidies have not been disallowed. (2). NNPC’s right to deduct subsidy fromamounts due to the FGN for the sale of domestic crude, instead of retrospective claims done by othermarketers. The role of NNPC in the downstream sector is to refine petroleum products and subsequently sell to bulk traders and retailers. Due to the decline in local refining capacity and increased domestic consumption, NNPC has resorted to importing products to compensate for the shortfall. The FGN subsidises the cost of petroleum products imported or refined locally. Typical process preceding subsidy claims includes verification and certification by PPPRA of the product type, volume and specification of the imported or refined petroleum product before the subsidy is claimed and paid. NNPC (PPMC) does not claim subsidy retrospectively as done by other marketers. PPMC buys 445,000 bpd of domestic crude oil from the FGN. PPMC is expected to pay for the domestic crude oil three months after the purchase from the FGN. This period is to allow PPMC convert the crude oil to refined products, sell the refined products, and pay the FGN for the crude purchased, from the proceeds of sale of the refined products.However, NNPC (PPMC) sells the refined products at a subsidised amount, and pays the FGN for the crude purchased less subsidy incurred during the sale of the refined products. (G). Amount Due ($52.88 billion) Amount expected to be remitted to the Federation after deducting the total verified costs from the total revenues from crude lifting. i.e., C-D-E-F. (H). Other costs not directly attributable to domestic crude oil ($2.81billion) After the submission of our initial report to the Auditor-General of the Federation on 28 November 2014, these costs were brought to our attention by NNPC; stating that it had understated its costs in the submissions made to the Senate Committee and had not included all the costs defrayed from the proceeds of domestic crude revenue in meeting its mandate in accordance with the NNPC Act. These costs comprise

•Finanace Minister Dr. NgoziOkonjo- •NNPC chief Joseph Dahwa Iweala

of what was incurred by NNPC and its loss making subsidiaries. We obtained physical records of these costs and compared them to the Group’s accounting records on SAP. (I). Expected remittance ($50.07billion). This is the total amount of revenue expected in the Federation Account after deducting H from G. (4). Obtained from discussions with NNPC and Revenue Mobilisation and Fiscal Allocation Commission (J). NNPC Potential excess Remittance ($0.74 billion).This amount represents the additional costs incurred by the Corporation and its subsidiaries not funded from the proceeds of domestic crude oil sale. The Corporation claims the potential excess remittance was funded from proceeds of PMS sales for which the suppliers of the PMS are yet to be paid in cash or crude oil Details of the affected suppliers that funded this potential excess remittance are yet to be provided by the Corporation. (K). Revenue remitted ($50.81billion) Total amount remitted as traced to the Federation Account. The sections below explain the differences in data submitted by the Reconciliation Committee and PwC data used in our analysis. We were not provided with the source of the data used by the Reconciliation Committee in arriving at its conclusions (2.4). Revenue Generated •$2.34 billion under-reported revenue generated The total revenue generated from our analysis of all crude oil revenue streams amounted to $69.34 billion. This was $2.34billion higher than the amount reported by the Reconciliation Committee. The difference was as a result of the following; (A). FIRS – Data received from both COMD and FIRS put revenue generated from FIRS tax oil lifting at $16 billion which is $1 billion higher than the amount quoted by the Reconciliation Committee. (B). NPDC – Information submitted by NPDC to the Senate Committee stated total revenue generated from lifting at $6.82 billion. This is $0.82 billion higher than the Senate Reconciliation Committee’s figure. (C). Third Party Financing – Data received from COMD and confirmed by Mobil Producing Nigeria Limited (MPNL) and Total E&P Nigeria Limited (TEPNL) during their submissions at the senate hearing, revealed total revenue figures of $2.43 billion. This is $0.43 billion higher than the amount reported by the Reconciliation Committee. (D). Our analysis also revealed increased revenue of $0.29 billion and $0.22 billion from Equity and Domestic crude oil lifting respectively, and a reduction of $0.42 billion from DPR royalty revenue, when compared to Reconciliation Committee’s figures. (2.5). Revenue Remitted Under-reported revenue remittance of $3.81 billion. The total cash remitted into the Federation accounts from crude oil liftings for the period under review amounted to $50.81 billion.We were able to trace $49.33bn of this amount to the FGN bank accounts listed in Appendix 6.1.33. The balance of $1.48 billion was

also traced to the FAAC report for subsequent months. Please refer to Section 4.2.7 for more details. $3.81 billion is the difference between $50.81billion and the $47 billion amount reported by the Senate Reconciliation Committee. This difference was as a result of the following: (A). FIRS remittance –We verified additional $1 billion revenue generated by FIRS which was not reported by the Reconciliation Committee.We also traced the payment of this amount to the CBN/FIRS JP Morgan account. (B). Other third party financing remittance – $1.37 billion was received from the third party financing arrangements. The arrangement with TEPNL resulted in the payment of $211million to the Federation from the USAN Field TMP project which represents Royalty and Profit oil, while the sum of $1.16billion was received from MPNL from the Satellite Field and Reserve Development projects. (C). NPDC remittance – Cash payments of $1.7billion representing Petroleum Profit Tax and Royalties had been remitted. (D). Equity crude and DPR royalty oil remittance – The remittance received from Equity crude sales, and in favour of DPR royalty oil, was $0.16 billion higher and $0.42billion lower than the Senate Reconciliation Committee figures respectively. 2.6. Other Third Party Financing Arrangements. • Under-reported Third Party Financing Revenue of $0.43 billion Mobil Producing Nigeria Limited, in its submission to the Senate, reported revenue figures of $518million5 and $859 million in respect of the Reserve Development Project (RDP) and Satellite Field Development Project (SFD) respectively. Total E&P reported a revenue figure of $1.053 billion in respect of the USAN project. These amounts represent royalty and profit oil due to the Federation from these third party financing arrangements. The total revenue generated from third party financing arrangement was $2.43 billion and not $2 billion reported by the Reconciliation Committee. • Undisclosed remittance to the Federation account Out of the total revenue reported by MPNL, $1.158billion had been remitted to the Federation Account as at November 2013. This was confirmed by the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation at the presentation to the Senate Committee.We also traced these payments to the CBN/NNPC JP Morgan account. The total of $858,750,972 relating to SFD had been remitted while $300,000,000 out of the $518,069,354 relating to RDP had been remitted. The balance of $218,069,354 was withheld to service the project finance cost and subsequent remittance of the net amount, in accordance with the contract terms. In respect of the USAN project handled by Total E&P Nigeria Limited, the sum of $193,478,061.15 and $17,943,616 totaling $211,421,6779, being Royalty and Profit Oil was remitted to the Federation account 2.7. PMS and DPK Subsidy • $0.98 billion over claimof subsidy by NNPC.

Our review of the subsidy documentation revealed that the subsidy due to NNPC between January 2012 and July 2013 on PMS and DPK import was $8.99 billion compared to the $9.97 billion stated by the Reconciliation Committee. The difference was due to the following: •Exclusion of October 2011 - December 2011 subsidy claims of $1.2 billion. This does notrelate to the review period of January 2012 to July 2013. •$0.13 billion increase in PMS subsidy claimed for the 19 months period. •$0.09 billion increase in DPK subsidy claimed for the 19 months period •Duplicated discharges noted in subsidy computations Our examination of the PMS and DPK import verified by PPPRA revealed that some discharges were apparently verified and subsidy advised to NNPC more than once. The repeated subsidy for PMS amounted to N3,709,879,190 ($23,954,796). The repeated subsidy for DPK amounted to N6,169,502,266 ($39,836,652). • $36.05 million over-statement in PPPRA’s PMS subsidy Payment Advice to NNPC •Our review of the Subsidy Payment Advice sent by PPPRA to NNPC for discharges between January 2012 and July 2013 revealed that PPPRA applied the pre-2012 ex-depot Price (N49.51) on some discharges in 2012 instead of the approved ex-depot Price of N81.51. •A total of 174,449,778 litres of PMS was affected in these PPPRA computations. •The error in computation resulted in an over-statement of PMS subsidy by N5.6 billion ($36.05 million). • Estimated $205million DPK subsidy over-charge by NNPC •Our review of a sample of the copies of the Pro Forma Invoices (PFIs) issued to the other marketers of DPK across different geopolitical zones of Nigeria, revealed that the other marketers bought DPK from NNPC/ PPMC prior to arrival at NNPC depot in Nigeria at N40.90. •The marketers are thereafter required to incur the Lightering expenses, NPA charges, Jetty Throughput Charge and Storage Charges before bringing the product into Nigeria. •Subsidy is calculated as Landing Cost minus Ex-Depot Price; 10 NNPC claimed that this cost is incurred by both NNPC and the marketers. For the purpose of this report, we have considered this cost as a cost incurred by the marketers. Over-charge of subsidy above depends on PPPRA’s decision to either consider this cost in favour of NNPC or in favour of marketers of kerosene. •Per PPPRA’s template, Landing Cost also includes the extra expenses incurred by the other marketers. •By selling DPK to marketers at N40.90 and claiming subsidy at an Exdepot price of N34.51 without adjusting the Landing Costs for the extra costs borne by the marketers, NNPC had over deducted subsidies to an estimated amount of N31,522,234,881.06 ($204 million). 2.8. NPDC lifting. •Under-recognition of NPDC liftings by $0.82billion by Reconciliation Committee The Reconciliation Committee put the value of liftings in favour of NPDC at $6billion. We did not receive any supporting documentation from NPDC to validate this figure other than the submission to the Senate by the former MD of NPDC, Mr Victor Briggs, who disclosed the total value of NPDC liftings from all its assets as $6.82billion. While we were unable to verify the $6.82 billion directly at NPDC, we performed a recomputation of the values of liftings using information provided by COMD and arrived at a value of $5.65 billion. Discussions with COMD revealed that lifting data captured by COMD for NPDC might not be complete as COMD does not capture liftings done directly by NPDC’s Strategic Alliance Partners. Volumes recorded by DPR for NPDC

did not contain the necessary pricing information for valuation. •Cash payments of $863 million by NPDC to FIRS not captured by Reconciliation Committee For the period under review, NPDC was yet to be assessed for tax by the FIRS. However, the company made several cash payments during and after the period which amounted to $863 million. These payments were confirmed by FIRS to have been received.We also traced the payments to CBN/FIRS bank statements with JP Morgan. •Cash payments of $839 million by NPDC to DPR not captured by Reconciliation Committee. For the period under review, NPDC made several payments to DPR based on self-estimated royalty. We traced several cash payments made by the company to CBN/ DPR JP Morgan account statement, to the tune of $839 million. Pipeline maintenance and management costs •Additional $2.8 billion cost communicated by NNPC. After the submission of our initial report to the Auditor-General for the Federation on 28 November 2014, the following was brought to our attention by NNPC regarding Pipeline Maintenance and Management Costs: •Initial submission made to the Senate Committee was understated and did not include all the costs defrayed from the proceeds of domestic crude revenue by NNPC in accordance with the NNPC Act. These costs also largely include the amounts incurred by the Corporation’s subsidiaries. •The total additional costs amounting to $2.81 billion was funded from domestic crude revenue accruing from liftings of January 2012 to July 2013, and third party liabilities as follows: Expense type Total ($) Salaries and benefits 1,522,258,663 Monthly operations 478,684,782 Other third party payments (including training course fees, estacodes, and consultancy fees) 955,212,837 Total costs 2,811,153,197 2.10. Crude oil and product losses. •Computation of Crude Oil loss NNPC used a conversion rate of $100/barrel to value differences between the quantity of crude oil pumped at the terminals and quantity received at the refineries.We adopted the monthly average Platts 12 price to value the losses, considering that the revenue generated from Crude oil lifted during the review period had been accounted for using such Platts information instead of a fixed rate. Applying the monthly average Platts price to value the crude oil losses amounted to $73,851,144.9313 higher than PPMC’s computation. Limitations We encountered some limitations in the course of executing some aspects of our scope of work. The key limitations were: • Unavailability of relevant NPDC personnel to provide information on the NPDC’s processes particularly around its operations, business objectives and internal accounting/financial reporting, etc. Change of management at NPDC during the course of the engagement which further contributed to our inability to successfully obtain responses to our request for information. • Non-response of NPDC to our request letter which meant that we weren’t provided with the following requests: • Detailed breakdown of the crude oil assets transferred to NPDC. • Terms of divestment and contract documents involving the assets taken over. • Strategic Alliance agreements between NPDC and counterparties. • Monthly volume allocations to Strategic Alliance Partners per partner. • Monthly balance of NPDC crude over-lifts by Strategic Alliance partners. • List of receiving banks, account numbers and bank statements for NPDC crude proceeds.

THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 28, 2015

NEWS Fire: Lagos records N200.59b loss in five years By Miriam Ekene-Okoro

HE Lagos State government yesterday said fire incidents in the last five years has led to a loss of about N200.59 billion. Commissioner for Home Affairs and Culture Oyinlomo Danmole gave the statistics at a ministerial press briefing. He said 6,541 fire calls were received, adding that many of which were avoidable. Danmole said while cumulative estimated properties lost was put at N200.59 billion, the cumulative estimated properties saved was N645. 87billion. The commissioner put rescue calls at 397 and collapsed buildings at 59. Of all, 8278 calls were received in the period under review, 1278 turned out to be false calls, which is now punishable under the law. In all the incidents, 550 victims were recovered dead and 498 rescued alive. Danmole added that this year has been busier for the State Fire Service. In the first three months, 524 fire calls were recorded, 20 rescue calls and three collapse buildings. In all, 20 people were recovered dead, four alive. Emergency services salvaged properties worth N36.6billion, property lost is estimated at N6.1billion. The commissioner said a lot of Lagos residents still take fire safety precaution for granted. According to him, “It is alarming that residents treat issues that could be preventable with levity. And when we realised this, we carried out enlightenment campaign using different medium. But it is pathetic that residents of Lagos have failed to make good use of the platforms to learn how to prevent fire and if it occurs, what to do.

‘Better days in Osun soon’

GROUP, Osun Liberty Group, has said better days are ahead for the people of Osun State. In a statement by its Coordinator, Ayo Akinola, the group said Governor Rauf Aregbesola is God’s gift to the state after what he referred to as “years of the locust represented by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)”. In the statement, Akinola thanked workers and residents for their patience and understanding, despite orchestrated efforts by the opposition to use the paucity of funds as a tool of political smear against the government. “Our people need to appreciate the fact that the governor has everybody’s welfare at heart as demonstrated by huge infrastructural development throughout the state. “Despite declining federal allocation, Aregbesola has creatively managed the finances such that the effect was not immediately felt until the decline persisted. “The government accumulated a debt of N12 billion in its bid to ensure that salaries were paid. The government was ready to borrow more but the banks would not grant more loans. "The Aregbesola administration remains pro-workers despite the tight corner it has found itself, which was the result of booby-trap deliberately put on his path.”

Babatope gets knocks for backing illegality

HE 19 All Progressives Congress (APC) members in the Ekiti State House of Assembly have criticised a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Board of Trustees, Chief Ebenezer Babatope, for calling them charlatans. They slammed the exTransport and Aviation minister for backing the impeachment of Ondo State Deputy Governor Ali Olanusi and opposing the impeachment proceedings against Governor Ayo Fayose. The lawmakers’ comments followed Babatope’s interview in a national newspaper yesterday. They said a senior party leader should not be speaking from both sides of the mouth in his analysis of political events in Ekiti. In a statement yesterday by Special Adviser (Media) to Speaker Adewale Omirin,

•Ekiti 19 condemns comment From Odunayo Ogunmola, Ado-Ekiti

Wole Olujobi, the lawmakers advised Babatope to take a break after the defeat his party. Slamming the PDP leader for calling them charlatans, the lawmakers said it was regrettable that Babatope could succumb to partisan emotions while his country crumbled under the weight of illegal acts of brigands. The statement said: “A question mark is being put on Babatope’s integrity. As a leader, he supported the impeachment in Ondo but he is now calling Ekiti lawmakers names for questioning Fayose. “Babatope’s past role in Ekiti is still fresh in our memory, as he was alleged to have participated in the supervision of thugs to unleash

‘We want to ask Babatope where was his integrity and clarity of thought when he kept quiet when Govenor Ayo Fayose invaded the court and beat up a judge’ mayhem on our members. “We want to ask Babatope where was his integrity and clarity of thought when he

kept quiet when Govenor Ayo Fayose invaded the court and beat up a judge. “What did he say when Fayose froze the Assembly’s accounts, seized the Speaker’s vehicle, cut electricity supply to his house, locked him out of his house and office and seized his official car? “ What did Babatope say when Fayose suborned seven PDP members to illegally pass the budget, approve commissioners and special advisers, revoke the Local Government Law, State Transport Management Agency and Social Security Scheme laws without recourse to the Assembly through revocation bills? “It is quite unfortunate that a supposed progressive elder statesman in the twilight of his political career threw away all he attained as a progressive and is frolicking with wolves.”

One million kids immunised From Adesoji Adeniyi, Osogbo

OVER one million children were immunised against polio virus last month in Osun State. The Chairman, House of Assembly Committee on Health, Leke Oguntola, who represented Governor Rauf Aregbesola, said this at the launch of the second round of the National Immunisation Plus Days in Osogbo, the state capital. The governor said no case of Wild Polio Virus (WPV) had been recorded in the state in five years. He noted that effective and active surveillance was carried out regularly by the Disease Control Unit in collaboration with the World Health Organisation (WHO). According to him, Osun was among the best performing states in immunisation in 2014, with coverage of 92 per cent in Penta 3 and OPV 3.

‘LASU yet to resume’ By Adegunle Olugbamila

•Lagos State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Ademorin Kuye (second left), Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Lateef Raji (second right), Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Lateef Abari and the Director, Press and Public Relations, Ministry of Information and Strategy, Mrs. Toro Oladapo at a briefing at the Bagauda Kaltho Press Centre, the Secretariat, Alausa, Ikeja…yesterday.

Hoodlums beat up workers at Ibadan firm

HERE is tension at the Ring Road headquarters of the Ibadan Local Government Properties Company Limited, Ibadan, Oyo State, yesterday, as hoodlums stormed the compound and beat up some workers. The company manages property owned by the 11 local governments in Ibadan, including estates (Mapo Hall) and monuments. An eyewitness said eight hoodlums invaded the office complex at noon and ordered workers out of their offices, beating up those that resisted. Five workers were reportedly as-

From Bisi Oladele, Ibadan

saulted, among them the Company Secretary, Adebowale Abdulazeez. The eyewitness told The Nation that the hoodlums slapped Adebowale when he inquired the reason they were being asked to leave. According to him, the hoodlums, after “descending on” some senior managers, asked for the general manager. But some workers prevented them from entering the general manager’s office. The General Manager, Surajudeem

Babalola, escaped and reported the attack to the police. But before policemen arrived at the scene, the hoodlums fled. At the office complex yesterday, workers were still in shock. Babalola said the company had never been attacked. But a source said the recent transfer by the company might be responsible for the attack. Babalola called on the police to investigate the attack and arrest the culprits.

Abducted Lagos boy rescued in Ogun

HE police in Ogun State have rescued another child, Abraham Adeyemi (five), who was abducted from a church in Somolu, a suburb of Lagos, on Sunday. Master Adeyemi, who gave his parents’ name as “Mummy Sarah and Daddy Sarah”, was rescued at Imedu-Nla, by the police in Mowe. The boy was found at 2 pm by a man and a pastor attached to the Foursquare Gospel Church. Master Adeyemi said his kidnappers told him they

From Ernest Nwokolo, Abeokuta

were taking him to an eatery, Mr Biggs, to buy food for him, but could not explain how he found himself in Imedu-Nla, Mowe. It was discovered that he is a pupil of the New Way Nursery and Primary School, Lagos. Police spokesman Olumuyiwa Adejobi told reporters in Abeokuta, the state capital, that a pastor found the boy within the premises of the Foursquare Gospel Church, Imedu-Nla, after the

close of service. Adejobi, a Deputy Superintendent of Police(DSP), said the pastor could not extract useful information from the boy regarding his family or contact address, adding that a piece of paper bearing a telephone number and fastened to the boy’s shirt, also offered no clues to the parents. According to him, several calls were placed on the telephone number but none of them went through. No ransom has been demanded. Adejobi said: “This is the fourth time kids we have

rescued in Ogun recently . The boy was found at a church and probably dropped there by the kidnappers. “He could not give valid information about his family and we have not been able to locate his family. “We believe he was kidnapped in a place near Canal in Lagos, nobody has demanded ransom, and we are advising churches to take security of kids serious during service. Parents should also watch their children during service.”

THE management of the Lagos State University (LASU) has debunked rumours that the recess it declared on March 25 has been called off. “The recess is still in force” said a statement, titled: “LASU’s recess still in force” and signed by the university spokesperson, Mrs Ronke Osho, yesterday. The statement said despite the recess, students due to be mobilised for the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Batch A scheduled to begin on May 5 need not fret as “they are being duly attended to”. The management warned that workers and students, who do not fall into the category, must stay away from the school. The management closed the school on March 16, following a crisis by workers, who assaulted the ViceChancellor, Prof John Oladapo Obafunwa.

Okun greet Buhari, others THE Lagos/Ogun states chapter of Okun Development Association has congratulated the Presidentelect, Gen Muhammadu Buhari; Lagos State Governorelect Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode and his Ogun State counterpart, Governor Ibikunle Amosun, on their electoral victories. In a statement by the Publicity Secretary, Odunayo Joseph, Patrons Cladius Olusegun Olorunfemi, Mohammed Aliu Elewonibi and the Chairman, Akere Owoniyi, the group said: “We join millions of Nigerians in congratulating Buhari, Ambode and Amosun. “With their election, the people’s age-long prayer for the emergence of an egalitarian society has been answered by God. “The group hails the national leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, for his relentless and rigorous campaigns, which have visibly and undoubtedly contributed significantly to the actualisation of the cries for change in Nigeria. His name will be written in gold as one of the outstanding agents of change in Nigeria.”

THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 28, 2015

NEWS Ex-Speaker faults Olanusi’s removal

ORMER Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly Victor Olabimtan has described the impeachment of Deputy Governor Ali Olanusi as a slap in the face of the All Progressives Congress (APC). He described the development as the cowardly act of Governor Olusegun Mimiko. Olabimtan, an APC chieftain, said if not for Olanusi, Mimiko would not have been governor. His words: “Olanusi’s defection should not have been a licence for his impeachment, it shows the type of person Mimiko is. “The people should note that Mimiko’s action has reached a crescendo, his continued stay in power is inimical to the state’s growth. “We can’t continue like this, Mimiko’s acts must be resisted. “We will follow the rule of law and I am certain that no matter how long Olanusi will be vindicated. “The act will not go unchallenged; we will follow due process to achieve our objectives. Supare-Akoko, Olanusi’s home town, was in a pensive mood yesterday. One of his kinsmen, Ebenezer David, said: “Olanusi is one of the pillars in the community, who brought development to the area.” Ikare-Akoko people were jubilating over the appointment of Lasisi Oluboyo as the new deputy governor.

Jonathan sacks NHIS Executive Secretary •Peter Obi is SEC Chair

RESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan has sacked the Executive Secretary/Chief Executive Officer of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), Dr. Femi Thomas. In a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Dr. Reuben Abati, the President has approved the appointment of Mr. Olufemi A. Akingbade as Acting Executive Secretary/ Chief Executive Officer of the NHIS. No reason was given in the statement for Thomas’ removal. “Akingbade, who hails from Ekiti State and holds a Bachelors Degree in Computer Science as well as a Masters in Business Administration, was the General Manager, ICT in the NHIS until his new appointment,” it added The statement also said Jonathan has approved the confirmation of Mounir Haliru Gwarzo as DirectorGeneral of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). “ Gwarzo who has been acting as director-general of the commission, was appointed as Executive Commissioner in January 2013,” the statement said. On the appointment of the former Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi, he said: “The President has also approved the appointment of the former Governor of Anambra State, Mr. Peter Obi, as chairman of the SEC.”

•Ogun State Governor Ibikunle Amosun (second right), Secretary to the State Government Taiwo Adeoluwa (right), Chairman, China Civil Engineering Construction Company (CCECC), Cao Bao Gang (second left) and Chinese Consul-General in Lagos, Lin Kan at the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on the Light Rail Network project for Ogun State at the Governor's Office, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta...yesterday. Story on page 11

Troops still in Sambisa forest, says DHQ

HE Defence Headquarters yesterday denied media reports that troops have retreated from the Sambisa forest, which has served as the main operational base for Boko Haram insurgents. A statement by the Director of Defence Information, Major-General Chris Olukolade, said operation was progressing and gaining increasing momentum towards clearing all terrorist hideouts in the forest. “It is noteworthy that it is becoming common for sto-

From Gbade Ogunwale, Assistant Editor, Abuja

ries of attacks on some remote settlements to be fabricated and attributed to anonymous or unidentifiable source in remote places. This is apparently the work of terrorists’ sympathisers or propagandists. “Military operations to eliminate all terrorist hideouts are going on well and the terrorists are being seriously decimated. They will continue to be pursued and prevented from constituting danger to civilian popula-

tion in their desperation for survival, suicide or publicity,” Gen Olukolade added. He debunked reports claiming that terrorists are now in control of Mafa in Borno State, saying that attempts by a group of fleeing terrorists who strayed towards the town and engaged typical suicide attacks were duly repelled by troops. He continued: “Similarly, the claim by some media organisations that terrorists chased out troops and took over Marte cannot be verified as troops were busy else-

where during the said attack. “However, efforts to track the terrorists who were reported to have attacked the town have not indicated their presence as claimed. “Surveillance activities are however ongoing although there has been no indication of the large number of terrorists as being claimed in some reports attributed to anonymous sources. “The terrorist are certainly no longer capable of that level of coordinated action by thousands of terrorists as

Lagos: INEC to blame for delay in council polls

HE Lagos State government has said the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is responsible for its inability to conduct local government elections. Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs Ademorin Kuye said it is still impossible for the government to state when the elections will hold as INEC was yet to make the voters register available. Kuye said: “I cannot say when the elections will be conducted. There is no way

By Miriam Ekene-Okoro

the electoral commission can conduct any election without having the appropriate voters register. And this register is still in INEC’s custody. “It has not been released to the state. The moment it is released to the government, then we can start planning on when the elections will be held. The commissioner blamed the recent loss of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the opposition in

some local governments to money and ethnic politics, saying the performance of the council executives has nothing to do with the loss. “The allegation that lack of performance led to the APC losing five House of Representatives and eight House of Assembly seats is not true. “This was because the last election was dictated and influenced by money politics. President Goodluck Jonathan was in Lagos several times abandoning his office in Abuja.

“Another factor was ethnicity. One will notice that in the area where the APC lost, they were areas dominated by certain tribes. The commissioner said the boundary and land dispute involving the Onilogbo of Ilogbo-Eremi in Olorunda Local Council Development Area in Badagry Division was resolved by the ministry. He also said boundary dispute between Agege, Ikeja and Orile local governments was also resolved.

Protesters shut down NSITF over 58-month arrears

ENSIONERS of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) yesterday shut down activities at the Fund over nonpayment of their 58 months’ arrears. The pensioners, who blocked the entrance at 8am, disrupted visitors and vehicular movements in or out of the premises. They alleged that the Fund’s management neglected and refused to pay the approved increase by the Federal Government since July 2010. The protesters said the NSITF should pay the arrears. Otherwise, they insisted, they would continue the protest and seek support from the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress

From Olugbenga Adanikin and Jummai Kpoga, Abuja

(TUC). Some of the protesters carried inscriptions such as “Pension Matters: Board approved N350 million, Trust Fund received N200 million, Balance N150 million. Dr. Ngozi Olejeme, where did you keep NSITF Pensioners’ N150 million? Alh. Munir, Do you know?”, “Mr. President, is Dr. Ngozi Olejeme above the law?” Dr. Ngozi Olejeme and NSITF Management, pay your in-house pensioners their entitlement.” The Deputy General Secretary, Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP), Chief Joseph Okunade, said the protest was held against maltreatment of NUP members.

‘We have talked to them, written to them and taken different approaches but they turned a deaf ear, that is why we are protesting. We will continue to pester and picket them’ Okunade said: “You can imagine the NSITF owing the pensioners 58 months arrears of pension increase. If the Managing Director does not take his money in a

month, you know how he will feel. “We have talked to them, written to them and taken different approaches but they turned a deaf ear, that is why we are protesting. “We will continue to pester and picket them. You see they cannot go in and come out.” NSTIF’s NUP Chairman Aham Mbazigwe-Akonye said the organisation did not cater for welfare of workers. According to him, he worked for about 23 years but after the new pension approval, NSITF was yet to effect the changes. Asked if there were commitments from the NSITF management on the pension, he said several appeals were made but yielded no positive results.

reported.” Gen. Olukolade advised the media to ignore what he described as “fabrication being churned out by some terrorists sympathisers trying to encourage the terrorists who he said were in disarray”. “The truth is that the operation to decimate them from Nigerian territories is progressing well. The military will not be dissuaded by the resurgence of false reports on the operations. The progress will be prosecuted as necessary”, he said.

Oyo Tribunal gets 12 petitions From Oseheye Okwuofu, Ibadan

HE Oyo State Election Petitions Tribunal yesterday said it has received 12 petitions - 10 House of Representatives and two senatorial. At the State High Court, Iyaganku, Ibadan, where Courts 15 and 21 have been assigned to hear the petitions, a tribunal official, who pleaded for anonymity, said it was too early to give details. He said the two senatorial petitions received were in respect of Oyo Central and Oyo South districts. The tribunal official said the 21-day period allowed for filing of petitions had lapsed in respect of the presidential/National Assembly elections. The court official said hearing might not begin until next week when, according to him, “it is expected that all the necessary filings would have been completed and those expected to be served would have received the papers”. It was gathered that petitions in respect of both the governorship and State House of Assembly elections held on April 11 could still be entertained. The All Progressives Congress (APC) made a clean sweep of the National Assembly election, winning 12 of the 14 House of Representatives seats and all the three senatorial seats.

THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 28, 2015

CITYBEATS OUTHS yesterday blocked the Eko Electricity Distribution Company (EKEDC) office in Badagry, Lagos, over poor power supply. They burnt tyres on the firm's premises, while chanting war songs. The protesters brandished placards with the inscriptions: "Don't throw Badagry into darkness," "Don't you want light in your life?", "Stop giving us bills" and "Leave here if you can't give us light". There was heavy traffic as the protesters blocked a portion of the road where the firm is located. Mr Olayinka Okoya, the leader of the group, told NAN that there has been no light in Badagry in the past three weeks. "We have had more than enough of this. They do not give us light yet they bring bills at the end of the month and the bills are as high as N120, 000. "Despite the fact that we do not have light, officials of EKEDC would come to our houses and cut us off even after we pay bills for power that we do not get. "We have been living in darkness for the past one month; we have complained several times, yet nothing has been done about it, so we decided to come out and express our grievances. "This must stop, we must be given power and outrageous bills must stop because we

CITYBEATS LINE: 09091178827

Youths protest power outage in Badagry

NE man has been ar rested by the police for allegedly robbing a woman inside a tricycle (aka Keke Marwa). She was attacked by a robber who pretended to be a passenger, at Guinness Bus stop on Oba Akran Avenue, Ikeja. They were coming from the nearby Ashade Market, Agege. The robber reportedly ordered the woman to surrender her belongings at gunpoint. The robber also slapped the tricycle driver and ordered him to surrender his key. Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) operatives ar-

By Wale Adepoju

•The protesters...yesterday

cannot take this anymore," he said. EKEDC officials declined to comment. Hoodlums cashed in on the situation to harass motorists and loot some shops. Sachets of "pure" water were thrown at passersby and motorists; broken bottles littered the road. Some roadside shops and a

mini-mart at a nearby Mobil Petrol station were looted. A passerby, Miss Morenike Ajayi, told NAN of her ordeal with the protesters. "I was just walking on my own when "pure" water sachets were thrown at me, what is my business with their protest or did I say the power supply should be bad? "I did not deserve such at-

fair at all," he said. The Divisional Crime Officer, Badagry Police Division, Aletor Peter, a Deputy Superintendent (DSP) told NAN that attendants at the Mobil Petrol station reported to the police that their shop was looted. He said investigation had begun into the incident.

By Ebele Boniface

(DSP), said the suspect claimed to be an estate agent/developer. Nwosu quoted the suspect as saying that he collected N950, 000 from his motherin-law to develop and let out her plot at 2, Odumola Street in Ajegunle, Lagos. After collecting between N100, 000 and N400, 000 from each of the victims, the suspect claimed he used the money to build the house. His arrest followed the landlady's petition to the Commissioner of Police, Kayode Aderanti. Defending himself, Ibrahim said: "My in-law gave me an old house at 2, Odumola Street, Ajegunle. I was a bricklayer and cement supplier for six years. On March 27, my in-law gave me N450, 000 to renovate the house. When it finished, she

tack and it was uncalled for," she said. Mr Audu Ali, a tricycle operator, said his phone was stolen. "Some boys who were among the protesters just came to me and snatched my phone and quickly joined the crowd. "I don't know how I will get another phone and this is not

Lagos gives 100 vehicles to monarchs

Prospective tenants lose N5m to developer 42-YEAR-OLD Mus lim cleric,Abdulateef Ibrahim, is being detained by the Lagos State Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) for allegedly duping 34 accommodation seekers of over N5 million. The suspect hails from Agbekun in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, but lives in OrileIganmu in Lagos. He is said to have absconded after collecting money from the victims for one-room, a-room-and-aparlour, self-contained apartments and mini-flats without meeting their demands. After waiting for long, 10 of the applicants forced themselves into some of the apartments, fixed doors and windows, and moved in. Lagos Police Command's spokesperson Ken Nwosu, a Deputy Superintendent

‘Be fire safety conscious’

•Ibrahim

gave me another N500, 000 but she could not give me more money to continue. To save the building from collapsing due to the coming rainy season, I put the apartments up for let. "I collected N5, 000,170 from 33 applicants and spent the whole money on the building. As I am talking to you now, I don't have one kobo in the bank or house.’

HE Lagos State Government has bought no fewer than 100 vehicles for traditional rulers and chiefs, Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs Commissioner Ademorin Kuye said yesterday. Speaking at the 2015 Ministerial Press Briefing in Ikeja, he said the vehicles would help the beneficiaries in the discharge of their duties. Kuye said the government was committed to the welfare of obas, adding: "With these vehicles and more that we have provided for our obas and chiefs, we can boldly say our traditional rulers are the most taken care of in the whole of the country. "We see traditional rulers as partners in progress and we will continue to do our best to make them comfortable,'' he said. Kuye said government was building new palaces and renovating old ones to enhance the comfort of traditional rulers. He said the palaces of the Alara of Ilara, the Ayangburen of Ikorodu and Suenu had just been furnished. The commissioner said government processed about 44 applications for the recognition and upgrade of chieftaincy stools in the last one year. The Chieftaincy Standing Tribunal of Enquiry, he said, had begun inquiry into applications for upgrade to Obaship from some divisions. He said the government approved seven new chiefs and Baales in Epe/Ibeju division of the state within the period under review. Kuye named the new chiefs as Prince Adewale (Iwajoba of Akodo), Rafiu Bello (Baale of Okun-Ise), Raufu Mustapha (Baale of Okun-Tiye), Raufu Alaka (Olisa of Orimedu), Lamoriu Adekoya (Apebi of Orimedu), Babatunde Lamidi (Aro of Orimedu) and Kabiru Ganni (Losi of Orimedu).

IGERIANS have been urged to be fire safety conscious to prevent loss of lives and property. A fire safety expert, Mr Franklin Akinmokun, gave the charge at the International Bio-medicals Laboratory Science Day organised by the Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists of Nigeria (AMLSN), Lagos State branch. The theme was: "Safety starts with you: patient safety first." He said despite precautionary measures, fire still occurs, adding: "Time is of the essence in fire prevention." Besides, people must have necessary equipment, such as fire extinguishers in their cars, homes and workplaces, among others to quell fire. They should have fire stations' telephone numbers in case of an emergency, he added. Akinmokun, a fire fighter with the Federal Fire Service (FFS), said fire does not kill but its smoke does. Moreover, it takes four minutes for people to stop breathing before they die. "Before people's hearts stop beating, they can be saved by performing chest compression (CPR) to restart the heart or call emergency response team, such as ambulance services. People should learn safety tips, especially CPR. Fire fighters should be contacted as soon as possible when there is a fire to put it out," he said. He identified fuel, heat and oxygen as the three elements of fire. Akinmokun said since fire safety concerns safety of lives, property and environment, people should install in their homes and offices smoke detectors to track fire as soon as it starts. Fire, he said, is the greatest threat to life and property. "Investment acquired in years can be razed within minutes if nothing is done fast to stop a fire," he said.

Woman robbed inside Keke Marwa By Ebele Boniface

rested the tricycle driver, Sodiq Adefowope (27), who confessed working with the robber whose name he gave as Moruf. While parading Adefowope yesterday, police described Moruf as the leader of the tricycle riders' robbery gang. According to the police, the gang terrorises passengers in the night and robs them of their valuables. The police said: "The woman boarded a tricycle at Ashade Market, and going to her destination (withheld for security reasons) when

all of a sudden the Keke Marwa rider stopped for the first passenger to alight but to her greatest surprise, the passenger instead of alighting started threatening the woman with short gun and ordered her to surrender her bag containing huge sum of money. "Having obliged by surrendering her bag, the robber slapped the Keke Marwa rider and ordered him to go to the back seat which he complied; the woman did not know that they are of the same gang." Adefowope, who hails from Oro in Asa Local Gov-

ernment Area of Kwara State confirmed that Moruf is a member of his gang. He said: "But, to be frank with you, I did not know that Moruf will strike because he was telling me about their exploits the day before. I would not have carried him if I knew that he had the intention to rob the woman. But I blame myself because I know that a criminal can strike anytime and anywhere unless he is not a real criminal, which was my miscalculation. "The game is up; there is no need to hide anything.

When we reached Guinness Bus stop, Moruf attacked the woman with a locally made gun and carried her bag. Before he escaped, he took over my Keke Marwa steering and started the Keke Marwa. I was dumbfounded because I never expected it. "Since I did not have alternative, I cooperated with him for the robbery operation to be successful but see what is happening now, he has escaped, I am the only one suffering. "If I am released, I will be careful in life because it was carelessness and carefree life style that put me into this mess."

•CP Kayode Aderanti

THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 28, 2015

BUSINESS THE NATION

E-mail:- bussiness@thenationonlineng.net

Institute signs MoU with agency to monitor hotels From Bukola Amusan, Abuja

HE National Institute for Hospitality and T o u r i s m , (NIHOTOUR) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Trans African Homes and Estate Management Services to monitor and regulate the activities of hotels in the country. The Director of NIHOTOUR, Chika Balogun who signed the MoU on behalf of her agency said it is always ready to work with sister agencies that will make its work easier. She said NIHOTOUR is highly disturbed with the ways some hotels are being operated in the country where rules, standards and regulations are not being considered in their operations “We are partnering with the Trans African homes and estate management services to boost the services of hotels in the country, to train hotel staffs and assess their services and operations periodically “We are worried over the state of some hotels in our cities and it is time we start to proffer sanctions to hotels that fail to operate within the approved guidelines,” she said. She added that training of hotel workers will assist in boosting the revenue of hotels so that a unique selling point can also be maintained in their services. Chairman, Trans African Homes and Estate Management Services said the agency embarked on the partnership in order to bridge the gap in the way hotels are being managed in the country. He said the agency will work with NIHOTOUR to recognise hotels that can be worked with in the first phase of the exercise.

Commercial banks are not manufacturing-friendly as their interest rates are usually very high; therefore, commercial banks remain a major challenge to the sector. Even the Bank of Industry’s (BoI) framework, which pegs interest rate at nine per cent, only finances machinery acquisition; it does not cater for working capital. -MAN President, Dr Frank Jacobs

Consumers seek independence as NERC offers to fund advocacy

Nigeria far from digital migration, says Pinnacle chief • 95% households yet to get set-top N boxes • Jos launch a hoax W IGERIA’s bid to mi grate to digital broadcasting in the next two months may be a mirage after all, as about 95 per cent of television boxes in Nigeria are analogue. Executive Director, Pinnacle Communications Mr. Dipo Onifade, said the Nigerian Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has been deceiving Nigerians about the project. Onifade whose firm won a bid to distribute signals to homes alleged that the planned Jos digital switchover was a hoax, designed to deceive Nigerians and the Federal Governmen into thinking that the sqitchover is about to commence. He insisted that it will be impossible for the country to distribute 26 million boxes to households in Nigeria before the deadline. Besides, there is a pending legal action before the law

From Vincent Ikuomola, and Kehinde Ore

court which could also hamper the country’s switchover plan before the deadline. The Geneva 2006 Agreement sets 17 June this year as the date after which countries may not be able to use the frequencies currently assigned for analogue television transmission for digital services, without being required to protect the analogue services of neighbouring countries against interference. This date is generally regarded as the internationally agreed date for analogue switch-off date along national borders. The Broadcasting Organisation of Nigeria (BON)

had recently allayed the fears that the country will be switched off from the international community should it fail to meet up with the June 17 digital switch over deadline. But Onifade, explained that plans by Nigeria to migrate to digital broadcasting by June 17 might have hit a brick wall, following the apparent unpreparedness on the part of the Federal Government to meet the deadline. On why he felt the country was not prepared for the digitaal switch on, Onifade said more than 95 per cent of television boxes in Nigeria are analogue while 26 million households are yet to get these boxes barely two months to the deadline.

He also noted that the current arrangement favours foreign media companies; accusing the NBC of conniving with a South African-based firm to shut out indigenous firms from participating in the process. He added that every household in Nigeria will be compelled to pay over N6,000 in order to secure the set-top boxes in order to enjoy the dividends of the digital migration. He said: “We are talking about digital switchover. Nigeria is nowhere near being ready to switchover. This takes time. About 95 per cent of television boxes in Nigeria are analogue. How are you going to distribute 26 million boxes to households in Nigeria before the deadline? These issues have not been ironed out; so, we are not ready to migrate.

DATA STREAM COMMODITY PRICES Oil Cocoa

$58/barrel $2,686.35/metric ton

Coffee

¢132.70/pound

Cotton

¢95.17pound

Gold

$1,396.9/troy

Sugar

$163/lb RATES

Inflation

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

15.87%

Savings rate

91-day NTB

15%

Time Deposit

5.49%

MPR

13%

Foreign Reserve

$34.5b

• From left: Chairman, Jaiz Bank Plc, Dr Umaru Mutallab; Vice President Namadi Sambo and Managing Director of the bank, Mr Muhammed Nural-Islam, during their courtesy visit to the Vice President at the Presidential Villa in Abuja...yesterday.

From John Ofikhenua and Ayorinde Hope, Abuja

ITH one voice, elec tricity consumers yesterday told the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission ( NERC) not to temper with the independence of the Nigerian Electricity Consumer Advocacy Network (NECAN). The interaction was all at the inaugural meeting of the commission with the group in Abuja. Their fears was that since NERC would provide the take-off fund for the running of the affairs of NECAN, the commission would not allow it the desired autonomy to operate effectively. Representative of Golden Spring Estate, Sylvester Ugu said the platform has been for customers to build upon and do their homework. He said: “I think the proper thing to do is to have our independence, and it is for the association to get registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC). That takes it off from NERC and NERC will now be making recommendations.” Besides, representative of Lafarge Cement, Dr. Abdullahi Buba said there was suspicion even if it was not based on fact. “So I still want to emphasise on the risk of independence. From the document you have presented, I want to say more on the mitigating aspect, that this body is independent of NERC, but it must be seen to be independent of this body.” The commission had in its terms of reference for the development of framework for engaging consumer advocacy groups in the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI) maintained that it would provide a start-grant for the Corporate Head Office of the NECAN. The terms of reference reads: “The start-up grant will incorporate office furniture and utilities, salaries for its core staff for two years, and a funding for some of its consumer education and outreach activities.

Ogun, Chinese firm seal intra-city railway deal

HE Ogun State govern ment yesterday signed an agreement with the Chinese Civil Engineering Construction Company (CCECC) for the construction of inter and intra-city railway project to commence soon. While the Secretary to the State Government(SSG), Mr Adeoluwa Taiwo, signed the contract documents on behalf of the state government, the Chairman of the construction firm, Mr Cao BaoGang, signed for it. Governor Ibikunle Amosun and his Works Commissioner, Arc. Lekan Adepite served as witnesses

From Ernest Nwokolo, Abeokuta

in a ceremony attended by the Chinese Consul-General, in Nigeria, Lin Kan. Although discussion about the cost implication is still ongoing between the two parties, it is estimated that about $3billion will be spent on the project while the construction work would take at least three years to be completed. On completion, the railway project is expected to ring the four divisions of the state and places such as AbeokutaSagamu-Lagos, Ilaro, Agbara Industrial Estate and Idiroko.

Other places to be linked with the rail project include Papalanto, Lafenwa in Abeokuta, Ijoko - Ota, Alagbole, Akute and parts of Ijebuland, the Redeemed Christian Church of God(RCCG) area (Sagamu) and that of the Winners Chapel (Otta). In justifying the need for the rail system, Amosun said the project upon completion, would take the much pressure off the roads as well as boost commerce and industries in the Gateway State. The governor however said the work on the railway project wont commence until ongoing roads and bridges

being built in the state are completed with the laying of the last asphalt. According to him, emphasis would also be placed on building rural roads to open communities and villages in the state for rapid socio-economic growth and development. While urging CCECC to work round the clock and ensure the project reaches an appreciable stage when the state would clock 40 years by February next year, Amosun said it will redefine the landscape of the state and also engender the desired development. Amosun said: “No doubt, this is an important day in

the history of our dear state. This agreement signing with the Chinese company for the rail project, when completed, will complement our road infrastructure all over the state. “Apart from infrastructural development, it will also attract bring to our state, it will also create jobs for our people and as well as quicken the movèment of persons and goods across the state. “Like I always emphasise, without functioning and proper infrastructure, we cannot develop. This step we are taking today will help in technology transfer and bring positive impact on the lives of our people.”

THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 28, 2015

BUSINESS NEWS

NCP okays bidders’ proposal for Warri terminal

HE National Council on Privatisation (NCP) has directed that the seven prequalified bidders that successfully met the 70 per cent scores from the evaluation of Expressions of Interest (EoIs) for prospective concessionaires for Terminal B Warri Old Port are to be issued with the Request for Proposals (RfP). The bidders are: Bright Ocean Integrated Services, Transnet Rosehill Group, Solent Stevedores International, Neon Adani Ports Consortium, Marine Infrastructure Consortium, Ecomarine Consortium and Global Infrastructure. The Council under the Chairmanship of Vice President Namadi Sambo directed the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE) to issue the RFPs to the prequalified bidders. A statement endorsed by Head, Public Communication, Bureau for Public Enterprises (BPE), Mr. Chigbo Anichebe explained that the

From John Ofikhenua, Abuja

decision was the outcome of the Council’s April 16 meeting. He recalled that following the approval of the NCP, advertisements seeking EoIs from prospective

Concessionaires for Terminal ‘B’ Warri Old Port were placed in some selected National Dailies on June 23, 2014 and bids were received on August 7, last year. At the close of the submission, 13 EoIs were harvested and subse-

quently evaluated. The evaluation was based on responsive test and detailed assessment test of the 13 EoIs. Only seven applicants passed the assessment. The evaluation committee recommended 70 per cent as the mini-

mum pass mark and further recommended that the seven successful applicants that met the minimum pass mark and above be prequalified to move to the next stage for the issuance of the Request for proposal (RfPs).

Arik Air pays N4 billion to Fed Govt

RIK Air paid over N4 billion to the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN ), for landing , parking fees, rent, passenger service charge (PSC), and fuel surcharge last year. The payments, it was gathered were made for the months of January, February, March , April, June , July, September and December last year. The N4 billion investigations, further revealed, is contrary to claims by sources close to FAAN, which claimed that the carrier has not been paying

By Kelvin Osa Okunbor

its bills since it began operations eight years ago. Investigations reveal that Arik Air in January last year paid N335,562,212.50; N318,575,022.50 in February and N327,359,180 in March. In April, it paid N370,417,622.50 while in June same year , it paid N349,471,655. In July, the airline paid N315,530,737.50. In September and December , it paid N344,486,305 and N477,232,605.50 respectively to the Federal government.

“ The total amount paid to FAAN in 2014 was N3,941,023,995. This is contrary to claims that the airline has not been paying its bills,”a source close to the carrier said on condition of anonymity. FAAN according to investigations said the airline owes about N287,834,450.47 and $8,192.00 for its Abuja operations . FAAN, in a letter endorsed by its Regional Manager, Abuja Airport Engineer O.O Osituyo to the Arik Arik Station Manager, Abuja put the debt accruing on the electronic platform hitherto operated by Maevis Limited at

N470,338,773,68 and $1,748.90 respectively. FAAN said the debts covered landing and parking fees, passenger service charge , rent , service recovery charge for operations at Abuja Airport. Last week, officials of FAAN disrupted Arik Air’s operations at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja. Hundreds of passengers were affected by the disrupted operations. The officials denied the airline’s staff access to their duty post making it impossible to process passengers for departures out of Abuja.

THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 28, 2015

THE NATION

BUSINESS AVIATION

Agbakoba: Nigeria can save N300b yearly A from aviation cabotage CTIVIST lawyer Olisa Agbakoba (SAN) has launched a campaign for a FlyNigeria Law to save the country N300 billion yearly in capital flight by foreign operators. He said under the law there would be provision for aviation cabotage to deepen local participation on the sector. Many foreign carriers, he said, are taking advantage of the absence of such law to repatriate home over N300 billion through ticket sales. At a briefing in Lagos, last week, Agbakoba urged the government to establish a national carrier to compete with mega carriers that are feeding fat on the indigenous market because of the law’s absence. He said it was unfortunate that Nigeria, with its huge potential in

Medview, FirstBank partner on online payment

By Kelvin Osa-okubor

aviation, is creating wealth for others. Agbakoba canvassed a review of the bilateral and multi-lateral air agreements to enable Nigeria compete with developed countries, adding that in the past few years, his firm has been campaigning for a FlyNigeria law, to push the development of aviation with special regard for Nigeria’s technical abilities, capacity and growth. He said: “We are conscious of the introduction of aviation cabotage, which will constitute a positive step towards stimulating the development of indigenous capacity and facilitate the pursuit for deep local

participation in the aviation sector. ‘’The scope of the bill could be enlarged to cover legislation on local content in respect of skills and service delivery. It will no doubt add commercial value to Nigerian domestic airlines, necessitating infrastructural development and job creation. “This has become important because in other countries such cabotage law with its attendant regulation are effectively used to support local operators. “The FlyNigeria Bill, we are pursuing will be modelled after the United States regulation which requires that government sponsored passengers, employees, consultants,

contractors and other persons performing government financed air travel fly US flag air carriers. “We are convinced that this will work in Nigeria if we empower our domestic carriers. This would save the nation over N300 billion annually taken out by foreign carriers.” According to Agbakoba, there is need for a sustainable policy to accelerate the development of the aviation sector. The major challenge of the industry is the absence of a development plan, adding that if an Aviation Sector Action Plan (ASAP) would accelerate the development of a comprehensive national aviation policy. Agbakoba added: “With about 170

million persons and regional economic potential, over 24 airports, a growing mass of flying middle class, Nigeria’s aviation requires massive revamping in terms of infrastructure, legal, institutional and administrative frameworks. “Beyond physical infrastructures, which are basically physical, the requirement is for a soft institutional framework. These critical issues underpin the most important aspects of aviation; functionality, safety, security, and profitability. “It is expected that the incoming Minister of Aviation will consider taking up and actualising the intended legislation. The ASAP can as well encapsulate various innovations towards the development of a comprehensive National Aviation Policy.”

EDVIEW Airline has signed an agreement with FirstBank of Nigeria on the online payment platform called MasterCard Internet Gateway Service (MIGS) where customers with Master/ Visa cards can pay for tickets online. According to Medview Managing Director, Alhaji Muneer Bankole, this is one of the steps to bring its service closer to clients who desire to buy their tickets online within the comfort of their homes or offices. This payment option, he said, is in addition to the Interswitch platform designed mostly for customers with naira Master cards and the book-onhold platform where customers could walk into any bank in Nigeria and pay for their reservations made online. To achieve this, Bankole said customer could make reservation online and choose the option ‘I want to pay with Master /Visa card’ when they get to the payment platform. He said: “This will automatically prompt the Master card and Visa Card logos from where customer can now click the logo of their desired card for payments, enter the required card details and wait for confirmation for payments. Once this is achieved, ticket will be automatically sent to the email provided while making reservation.”

NAHCO, Sokoto govt strike deal

OKOTO State Governor- elect Alhaji Aminu Tambuwal has pledged to work with the Nigerian Aviation Handling Company Plc (Nahco Aviance) to ensure the state’s rapid development . Tambuwal told visiting directors of the ground handling company in Sokoto last week that his administration would require the firm’s expertise in every area critical to economic development. Nachco Aviance Chairman Mallam Suleiman Yahyah, who led the directors on the visit, pledged to help attract foreign investments to the state. NAHCO offered to partner the state government to develop its potential in such a way that would make Sokoto a global force in the areas where it has comparative advantage. Yahyah pledged NAHCO’s assistance in facilitating foreign investors who will assist the state government develop its mineral resources, thereby creating employment for the youth of the state. Tambuwal said his administration was grateful for NAHCO’s offer and would consult the company to know the requirements that would lead to the accelerated development of the state.

From left: Managing Director, Skyway Aviation Handling Company Limited (SAHCOL) Mr. Oluropo Owolabi; representstive of International Air Transport Association (IATA) Mrs. Ewemade Atake and President, Association of Foreign Airlines in Nigeria (AFAN), Mr. Kingsley Nwokoma, at the end of SAHCOL’s safety week at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Ikeja,Lagos.

Airport land lease too costly, says operator

N airline operator has criticised the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) for the “high” cost leasing of land around airports. Mr Allen Onyema, Chairman of Air Peace, said the lease is too costly for “struggling” domestic airlines which want to build maintenance hangars. He said the cost is a disincentive to domestic operators who want to reduce the huge costs of taking their aircraft overseas for major maintenance. Besides, he said, FAAN has made it difficult for some operators to get approval for such facilities, which can create jobs and improve local capacity in avionics and aeronautical development. In an interview with The Nation, Onyema claimed that FAAN charged him over N160 million for the lease of a land to build an hangar at the Lagos Airport. He wondered where FAAN expected his company to raise

such money. Onyema said most aviation agencies were frustrating domestic carriers’ efforts to lease land at airports nationwide, claiming that the agencies delay approval they also charge arbitrary fees. He said: “The government should create a conducive atmosphere for domestic airlines to operate. It is not about proposal to merge airlines. The operating costs are too high; we want lower taxes, charges and elimination of five per cent ticket sales charged by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA). This is eating deep into our costs of operations. It is beyond merger of airlines. Airlines have the capacity to operate but they need a conducive environment.” Onyema went on: “The government should put in place a policy that would enable airlines access single interest rate on bank loans. “Buhari should address the policies that affect aviation, the issue of

taxation and the operating environment. The government must appoint somebody who has business acumen to run the sector. “The minister has done his best, but we want somebody with business background, the government should address the issues of policy, double taxation and how the airlines could operate profitably,” Onyema said. He continued: “There have been a lot of talk about the aviation sector in Nigeria, which is mostly influenced by lack of knowledge about the sector by so called experts. “The bulk of the critics heaps blames on airline operators as being the problem of the industry which is not true. “What is key in the industry is that operators are playing their role and doing their best. ‘’But with the existing structures in the industry the growth of domestic airlines cannot be sustained. No domestic airline will do well if the poli-

cies that stunt growth are sustained. “The way out is for the government to design appropriate policies that would create a conducive operating environment. “The operating environment for domestic carriers in Nigeria is too harsh. It is not about airlines merger But the taxes are too many. With this kind of condition if sustained no airline will survive. “If there were good policies in place, the type that brings about lowering of airport taxes, and other charges Nigerian airlines would do well. “The cost of procuring land from the airport authority to build aircraft maintenance hangar is prohibitive. “If the government wants to support the growth of airlines, it must put in place policies that would enable domestic airlines lease land at lower rates. The wickedness of government agencies in frustrating domestic carriers seeking to get land around the airport should be looked into,” Onyema said.

THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 28, 2015

THE NATION

* The Environment * Mortgage * Apartments * Security * Homes * Real Estate

BUSINESS PROPERTY/ENVIRONMENT Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola is set to leave a legacy of sustainable environmental management. One of such is the state’s yearly Climate Change Summit, which ended last week.The event was dedicated to examining achievements in the sector, reviewing challenges and setting agenda, MUYIWA LUCAS reports.

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Lagos: Counting the gains of climate change summits

AGOS State has positioned itself as a leader in safe guarding the environment from the effects of climate change. Last week, it concluded its climate change summit, the seventh. This year’s edition was remarkable because it is the last one Governor Babatunde Fashola (SAN) presided over as the state’s chief executive. Fashola started the summit in 2009. The theme of this year’s edition was 7 Years of climate change Governance in Lagos State, Celebrating success stories, reviewing challenges and setting future agenda. According to Fashola, since 2009, the summit has been the principal vehicle for attracting the required attention to environmental challenges. He stressed the need for humanity to reflect on the threat posed by the increasing world population to the sustainable exploitation and use of natural resources. For the governor, the results of the various climate change summits have been very useful to the state government in that it has helped in shaping most of its actions and policies regarding the environment. Some of these include the Eko Atlantic City Project, an adapted measure against climate change-induced sea level rise; improved waste management and transportation; the Lagos, Akute and Alausa Independent Power Projects which are gas fired, leading to the decommissioning of over 400 diesel fuelled electricity generators; the planting of over five million trees; the creation of over 100 parks and gardens across the state; and the establishment of the Lagos State Parks and Garden Agency (LASPARK), among others.

Technical sessions

The lead paper titled: “Climate change governance: Challenges and opportunities” was delivered by Director of Research Department on International Politics, Aberystwyth University, United Kingdom, Prof. Richard Beardsworth. He emphasised the importance of purposeful leadership to the challenge of climate change. The summit had eight technical plenary, with 26 papers delivered by experts from Nigeria, Scotland, UK, France, United States, South Africa, Canada, Egypt, and Cameroon. The papers covered various aspects of celebrating success stories, reviewing challenges and setting future agenda. The papers included: Post COP 20 Peru Climate Change Conference; implications for Developing Economy; Sharing Innovative Solutions in Climate Change Mitigation in Africa; From Waste to Wealth; Sharing public private partnership

•From left: Fashola; his Commissioner for Environment, Mr. Tunji Bello and Prof. Beardsworth, at the summit. PHOTO: ISAAC JIMOH AYODELE

(PPP)-PPP Experience in Establishing and operating material recovery facility in a developing economy; the Lagos State transportation policy and climate change mitigation and opportunities; mass transportation: the panacea for climate change mitigation in a developing economy; public transportation: role in responding to climate change; adopting green business for sustainability engaging corporate lagos; climate change mitigation: the role of financial institutions; and environmental sustainability in the extractive industry: The case for climate mitigation. Other presentations include: building resilience to climate change impacts: batnf and small scale farmers at the frontline; african coastal cities climate change vulnerability and adaptation planning: status and future plans; climate change policy and sustainable development; community energy as a vehicle for sustainable development and combating climate change; offshore energy for sustainable development in lagos state; turning liability into assets: taming the challenges of sea level rise into a vibrant City. The making of Eko Atlantic City; Lagos State Master Plan: Sustaining the Built Environment; among others.

Observations

The summit observed that climate change is a common global problem in which all states and people are involved as they are all affected, irrespective of the sources of Green House Gas

(GHGs). Besides, it also observed that addressing the fundamental challenge of climate change for sustainable development and human survival is borne out of the concern that “nature does not need people, people need nature.” Other observations include that sustainability is a new direction for firms to effectively and profitability show-case their environmental consciousness; that there are many opportunities in the future of sustainable development that is imperative for human existence and survival; that green economy makes a lot of business sense and going green is a profitable business. It also provides new opportunity for global cooperation in the area of promoting energy mix, including renewables, for sustainable socioeconomic and environmental development. Importantly, participants observed that Lagos, as a coastal city, is highly vulnerable to the impact of climate change while rapid and unguided urbanisation, poor institutionalisation of public mass transportation with unsatisfactory commuter/freight demand are responsible for rapidly growing use of private vehicles in Lagos, even as mass transit is a key panacea to the poor transportation system in Lagos State, given the rapid rate of population growth and the desire of dwellers to own their own motor vehicles. The summit did not end without applauding the tree planting initiative of the Fashola administration. Participants restated that tree planting is an effective mitigation measure against the impact of climate change. Urban reforestation, in particular, is a laudable approach to im-

proving carbon sequestration and mitigating climate changeinduced urban heat island. Also, it was observed that climate proofing agriculture and its resilience to variations in climate is critical for sustainable food security in the state. More importantly, the Eko Atlantic City Project was applauded as potentially an effective adaptive response to mitigate the impact of climate change on the coastal city of Lagos, and the use of only private sector resources for the execution of the Project is an innovative way to ensure its sustainability; just as an effective town planning is critical to sustainable urban development and making cities climate resilient. The absence of a legally binding policy and action plan on climate change at the state level, participants further noted, is of concern.

Recommendations

Twenty-five recommendations were made at the end of the event. These include: that government should continue to invest in climate change to promote environmental sustainability and assured future for human existence in the state; that Lagos as mega city must commit to addressing greenhouse gas emissions reduction; including introducing Controlled Parking Zones to deter the use of private vehicles and establishment of carbon registry to monitoring GHG emission levels, among others; that Lagos State should further enlarge its mass transit programme to transit it into an

‘The Eko Atlantic City Project was applauded as potentially an effective adaptive response to mitigate the impact of climate change on the coastal city of Lagos, and the use of only private sector resources for the execution of the project is an innovative way to ensure its sustainability’

integrated, coordinated and functional public mass transport system, complimentary road furniture’s and a comprehensive urban transport policy driven by empirical research study; that urban development should be controlled through appropriate measures that will reduce dependency on motorised vehicles and reduce the increasing need for urban infrastructure; that Lagos State should continue to showcase the benefits of its tree planting initiative, as a climate change mitigation and adaptation measures to other parts of the country; that the State should look into the feasibility of enriching its remaining forest areas in the context of REED+ to create financial value for carbon stored in forest, address the drivers of deforestation, enhance its carbon sequestration for climate change mitigation, and even provide additional means of livelihoods for the concerned communities; that the State should develop a climate change information management system in which all research outputs are catalogued and widely disseminated on a regular basis; that technology should be put in place to reduce GHG emissions from waste in the State; that youths should be encouraged and involved in the development of climate change mitigation technology; that the State should pursue a strategic alignment with the private corporate organisations in the State in its fight against climate change and promote research, development, demonstration and deployment (RDD&D), particularly in the development of technological response to the challenge. Other recommendations include that the Lagos State Green Fund (inspired by the Lekki Free Trade Zone) should be created to leverage funding from all sources – state, federal, bilateral and multilateral financial institutions - to promote green employment generation, investment, and innovation; that the State should establish a Lagos Green Eco-Innovation Forum that will be mandated to spearhead efforts to promote and intensify Nigeria’s (and African) efforts to meet climate change targets and goals through entrepreneurship and philanthropy; government should continue to support the African Coastal Cities Climate Change Vulnerability and Adaptation Planning Project towards making Lagos more resilient; Relevant stakeholders should be involved on a continuous basis in the execution of the Eko Atlantic City Project to ensure sustainability, and the Lagos State should ensure continuity in the implementation of the model city plan within the existing legal framework to further climate proof Lagos, while putting in place a positive, innovative, policy environment and strengthen existing regulatory framework, including tax incentives and governance mechanisms which will promote public and private investment in climate change mitigation projects in Lagos state Participants at the summit also recommended that the state government should explore the possibilities of developing a framework for the construction of energy efficient houses for both low and middle income earning residents of the State, urging the government to look into the feasibility of an Energy-Poverty Alleviation Fund to help provide modern energy services to the poor and the needy in the state.

THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 28, 2015

COMMENTARY EDITORIALS

LETTER

Money to waste •Nigeria is spending far too much on overseas scholarships

HE allegation that the Federal Government is spending some N100 billion a year on foreign scholarships must compel a comprehensive reformulation of the ways in which Nigeria finances its education system. The accusation was made by Mr. Ahmed Adamu, chairperson of the Commonwealth Youth Council (CYC), as part of his appeal to the President-elect, Major-General Muhammadu Buhari (rtd), to scrap it. There can be little doubt that Nigeria spends a huge amount of money on the education of its students in overseas universities. About N27 billion has been spent on foreign scholarship awards by the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND). In 2011, N8.4 billion was spent on the school fees of the offspring of Nigerian diplomats. An estimated N160 billion is spent on the education of

‘Instead of committing billions to overseas education, it is time to develop strategies whereby more of that money is spent at home. Government itself must take the lead in this respect by ensuring that a greater proportion of the huge sums it spends on foreign scholarships are transferred to indigenous tertiary institutions’

Nigerians in Ghana annually. Exam Ethics International, a non-governmental organisation, puts the total spending on the education of Nigerians abroad at a staggering N1.5 trillion. Given the fact that the country plans to spend N400 billion on education in the 2015 budget, it is obvious that the funds spent outside the nation’s shores are grossly disproportionate to local capacity. Overseas scholarships can be beneficial when they are properly used. During Nigeria’s early years as an independent nation, hundreds of students were sent abroad as part of an ultimately successful effort to expand and develop the fledgling country’s human resources. The rational then was that there were only a few local tertiary institutions available for students to utilise within the country. Currently, however, Nigeria is endowed with over one hundred universities and about as many polytechnics and other tertiary institutions. The excuse of inadequate local capacity is therefore less defensible. The fact that the country is spending such a huge amount on overseas education is an obvious indication that there is a viable market for educational services if only determined attempts are made to fully tap into it. Instead of committing billions to overseas education, it is time to develop strategies whereby more of that money is spent at home. Government itself must take the lead in this respect by ensuring that a greater proportion of the huge sums it spends on foreign scholarships are transferred to indigenous tertiary institutions. This can be done using a variety of means: by insisting that more of its

scholarships be tenable in Nigeria, rather than abroad; by awarding grants aimed at enabling local universities to expand their postgraduate education; by working with international donor agencies to develop scholarship programmes with overt Nigerian content. However, it must also be understood that such strategies will not work if local tertiary institutions continue to perform below international standards; indeed, this is the reason why so much money goes overseas in the first place. Tertiary education operates within a global context, and it cannot be arbitrarily adjusted to local whims and caprices. Inadequate infrastructure, ill-paid and poorly-motivated staff, incessant strikes and other disruptions to the educational calendar will only continue to degrade and diminish the tertiary education system, thereby driving ambitious students and their parents abroad, at great cost to themselves and to the nation. If Nigeria’s tertiary institutions want to start attracting more of the educational funds that go abroad, they will have to undertake a comprehensive change in attitude. Many foreign universities aggressively market themselves in Nigeria. Why is it that so few of their local counterparts think it necessary to do the same? Nor do local tertiary institutions feel the need to attract and retain the best university teachers and administrators, as is habitually done in countries like the United States. When local schools begin to see themselves as potential players on the global education stage, they will be able to start taking advantage of the educational bonanza at their doorstep.

The Ondo epidemic •Citizen caution is advised while scientists probe the root

HE report of unknown epidemic which hit Ondo and killed 12 people has attracted as much of public attention as it has created fears in the minds of inhabitants of Ode-Irele, a serene community in Irele Local Government Area of Ondo State. Curiously enough, the state commissioner for health, Dr. Dayo Adeyanju, who reported the epidemic to journalists, did not know the cause, neither could he say when nor how the disease was first noticed in the community. But he knew that four persons with fresh symptoms of the disease had been isolated at the General Hospital, Ode-Irele. All that is known about this disease are its symptoms. According to Adeyanju, preliminary reports showed that all the victims who died of the disease “complained of headaches and later lost their sight before dying”. The commissioner explained that the symptoms of the epidemic were unlike those of Ebola Virus Disease which are diarrhoea, vomiting and haemorrhage. It is all well and good that the commissioner has assured that everything possible would be done to prevent the disease from spreading and that the state government had already sought the aid of the World Health Organisation (WHO) and other partners, including the Federal Ministry of Health. On his part, however, the Chief Executive Officer of Ebola Alert, Professor Bakare Lawal, said that examples obtained from the victims were being analysed “to enable experts to determine

whether the disease was bacterial or viral infections”. But an online search vide the healthline.com revealed that the symptoms of this “unknown” disease “mimic those of temporal arteritis”. The portal has advised that, “although the exact cause of the condition is unknown, there may be a link with the body’s auto-immune response. In addition, “excessive dose of antibiotics and certain severe infections have been linked to temporal arteries which supply blood to the head and brain, become inflated or damaged. It is also known as cranial arteritis or giant cell arteritis”. The portal advises that although the exact cause condition is unknown, there may be a link with the body’s auto-immune response. All these notwithstanding, the speculation tracing the epidemic to consumption of illicit gin brewed locally in the community has been widely spread. We therefore support the warning to people not to patronise the illicit gin, also known as ogogoro, suspected to be the culprit, at least for now, although this seems a remote possibility given that the local gin has been consumed for ages without such epidemic. Whilst not necessarily supporting the consumption of the local gin, we must look beyond it for the cause of the epidemic. It is a pity, even if it is not surprising, that the epidemic had killed 12 people, as we live in a country where all kinds of drinks like the one called sobo and its like pass for soft drinks, and are readily consumed without verification from authen-

tic quarters, like the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), as to their safety for human consumption. What this tells us is that people should be mindful of what they drink. The Ondo State Government should investigate the matter to find out the source or sources of the production of illicit gins and also see to it that other things sold as drinkables, like ‘pure water’, should be made to pass NAFDAC test. Should handling of the epidemic be beyond the scope of the state government, it should follow up its calls on the relevant Federal Government and WHO to jointly look into the matter with a view to finding a lasting solution to it. The Federal Government particularly should show interest in the Ondo epidemic before it spreads to other states of the federation. A stitch in time saves nine.

‘Should handling of the epidemic be beyond the scope of the state government, it should follow up its calls on the relevant Federal Government and WHO to jointly look into the matter with a view to finding a lasting solution to it’

Counting the cost of xenophobia IR: South Africa is in the eye of the storm again as xenophobic onslaught against fellow immigrant Africans sweeps across that land. The repeat of this deep rooted irrational hatred for fellow human beings which took place seven years ago, claiming over 60 lives was cruelty taken to another ugly dimension. Take it or leave it, xenophobic attacks in Africa have unfortunately lived with us and gone unnoticed for years. When it is over we forget to properly identify its recipe to forestall future occurrence. Killing and maiming of brothers has become the bane of a well celebrated continent of loving and caring people. The world was largely miffed in this South African Xenophobic attack because this is happening in a multicultural society known to have garnered immense African solidarity and support against serial injustices done to their nation during apartheid regime. This is the nation of Nelson Mandela: the epitome of the struggle for South African freedom who once said, “for to be free is not merely to cast off one’s chain but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others.” Unfortunately, this barbarism contradicts the South African ideal for democracy, freedom, justice and what they portend. The brazenly rascality turned into broad day armed robbery where looting of shops and properties of immigrants by the young and old South African in the full glare of local and international media was the order of the day. The South African police and other civil security establishments should be investigated for their unenthusiastic approach to the crisis. They did not seem in my estimation to have risen up to this occasion. Xenophobia and other crisis in Africa cannot be divorced from economic struggle for livelihood and the quest for survival among the masses amidst affluent few, corruption, unemployment, poor healthcare facilities, lack of good education and paucity of the needed resources or denial therein. The lack of purposeful leadership and good governance in Africa has thrown up all sorts of confusions and crises. Both the hungry and the unemployed take to anger and since anger emotionally overpowers reason; the least provocation is a misdirected violence waiting to happen on the society which are manifested in the forms of riots and civil wars. Ralph Ellison posited that, “when I discover who I am, I will be free.” South Africans were freed from apartheid regime 21 years ago but they have failed to emerge from their cocooned slave-mindset and discover themselves; and if they do, they will be free indeed. Africans are weary of and can no longer tolerate governments devoid of good governance. The earlier African states and governments begin to see positions of authority as one of trust, service to humanity and a social contact which must be sacrosanct, Africa will arise, be well and better for it. • Sunday Onyemaechi Eze, Kaduna Electricity Distribution Company, Kaduna

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THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 28, 2015

CARTOON & LETTERS

IR: That Femi Gbajabiamila carries himself like a true leader, is not new. That he acts and talks the part is also not new. That he is a nationalist is not new as well because his antecedent speaks volume but what is new is that he’s never been the leader of the ruling party in the House of Representatives. As the House’s ‘Minority Whip’ leader, Gbajabiamila was many things. He was the voice of the House as well as the enforcer. He pushed that democracy be practiced in Nigeria like in developed countries. For starters, lets refresh on the role of a ‘Whip’ and how Gbajabiamila played the part. “A whip is an official in a political party whose primary purpose is to ensure party discipline in a legislature. Whips are a party’s “enforcers,” who typically offer inducements and threaten party members to ensure that they vote according to the official party policy. A whip’s role is also to ensure that the elected representatives of their party are in attendance when important votes are taken.” In the House Gbajabiamila held sway because of his stance against mismanagement, poor leadership and political immaturity. He vehemently kicked against the defection from one party to another, hammering on the need for Nigerian politicians to have and hold onto a set of political beliefs, ideology and philosophy. Gbajabiamila pretty much summed himself up in his book: “Fearless: the Emergence Of A Virile And Formidable Opposition Leader (Political Memoirs of Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila) preparing himself for the big stage, only that, this time he will go from opposition

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Gbajabiamila deserves the Speaker’s job leader to the leader of the ruling party, a position he has prepared himself for and one that has waited for him. His panache and zest as Minority Whip leader was contagious and staggering. His colleagues always listened when he spoke. His oratorial prowess and his ability to convey his messages in the best possible fashion made him an item in every gathering. As Minority Whip leader, he

• Seun Bisuga, Lagos

Still on the xenophobic attacks IR: South Africans have been up in arms against foreigners, mostly black immigrants since 2008. If care is not taken, such hostility could become the defining feature of the relationship between Africa’s most industrialised nation and the rest of the sub-Saharan Africa. The series of violent attacks have resulted in the death of about 10 people who were either stabbed, lynched, wounded or set ablaze right in their places of abode while many others, who were lucky to survive have been displaced and rendered homeless. The world also watched in horror, as gangs of weapon-wielding youth descended on hapless people by killing, maiming and destroying their property. Shops and restaurants were reportedly looted with the law enforcement agents accused of looking the

other way. We recall that such hostility played out some years back when some South Africa-bound Nigerians were turned back at the Oliver Tambo International Airport, Johannesburg for allegedly attempting to enter the country without the possession of valid yellow fever vaccination cards. At that time, the measure attracted a retaliatory action, as Nigeria turned back about 130 South Africans after their plane had touched down at the Murtala Muhammed Airport in Lagos. Not only that, the humiliation Nigerians face when applying for South African visas is unbearable, particularly when nationals of similar countries that supported apartheid are allowed to enter into South Africa without entry visas. The South Africans are said to be

Re: Our agenda for Buhari by doctors, others IR: The pharmaceutical society of Nigeria wishes to express its gratitude to your publication for your exclusive on the above subject matter. We however wish to draw your attention to the caption – Our agenda for Buhari by doctors, others… While conceding that editors have a lib-

Forte Oil Plc, has been paid, Gbajabiamila did a thorough job ensuring that the House also passed Money Laundering and Terrorism Amendment Bills. That’s why Asiwaju BolaTinubu, a national leader of the All Progressives Congress described Gbajabiamila as “an inspiration to many of the members of the House of Representatives today who are working tirelessly to see Nigeria chart a new course and are very so

committed to changes, content of the character of the country, adding a great value and commitment to national development and progress of this country”. Gbajabiamila is not one who shies away from his responsibilities and actions as a leader. To preserve the democracy of Nigeria, he was once forced to scale the gate of the House of Representatives. On his Facebook page, he wrote of his action: “What happened in the National Assembly yesterday will forever live in infamy. Never thought I would see the day when I would be forced to go over the assembly gates where I work to gain access into the chambers.”

erty to decide the captions that suits them best, it is imperative to point out that the aforementioned caption assaults sensibilities and deals fatal blows on the pride of health professionals especially pharmacists. It is painful that at a time we continue to seek mutual respect for all

concerned in the health sector, this type of caption encourage the conqueror mentality doctors in collaboration with some biased stakeholders continue to impose on our perennially volatile health sector. • Gbalagade Iyiola, MAW Mushin, Lagos.

irked by the business competition offered by foreigners and Africans who seem to be more successful than them. Due to South Africa’s culture of entitlement, the entrepreneurial spirit and hardwork so evident in immigrant communities has become a source of resentment for them. The culture of entitlement that tends to propel South African natives to become lazy and complacent, believing that many of their unemployed township dwellers cannot do much on their own to improve their situation without state assistance. Not only that, immigrants from Somalia and Ethiopia are also feared and hated because they do much better than their South African counterparts. These immigrants - out of sheer business ingenuity - co-operate with each other by forming business networks to buy goods together in bulk and undercut competition by excelling as entrepreneurs. King Zwelithini’s provocative utterances undoubtedly fuelled the latest impasse and as such, his reprimand and the call by many, including the Nigerian government for his prosecution at the International Criminal Court are not out of place. There can be no valid excuse for or defence of the horrors playing out. It is shameful for a big country like South Africa to behave like the former apartheid state where

rights violations were rampant. The patience of Nigerians who rather opted for protest - rather than resorting into violence in the face of provocation - is highly commendable. The Nigerian government should rise up to its obligation of protecting its people in South Africa and elsewhere. Necessary legal actions should therefore be initiated to ensure that South Africa pays adequate compensations for the losses incurred by the immigrants. If the South African government cannot guarantee the safety of Nigerians in their country, the Federal Government should put the necessary logistics in place to evacuate its citizens. Finally, it is time we looked inward and reflect deeply on how to discourage Nigerians from fleeing their country for greener pasture. The perennial problems of unemployment, insecurity, harsh business climate, epileptic power supply and bureaucratic corruption should be seriously addressed. The incoming administration of General Muhammadu Buhari should ensure that Nigeria regains its pride of place among comity of nations and to become a true home for all its citizens. • Adewale Kupoluyi Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta.

THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 28, 2015

COMMENTS “Ema ba won wi o, funra won no ma funra won loogun je! [Never mind them, they are fated to self-destroy] — Yoruba cynical saying

countermand that such a directive was alien to the Electoral Law. But as Jonathan lost, the tactics exploded in Abba’s face MPUNITY makes, impunity takes, — and strategies must chikena! logically change. But too bad, That appears a fair epigram on the Abba trundled on a eight-month tenure of Suleiman Abba, presidential snake that though the briefest-serving Inspector-General of scorched, was neither dead nor Olakunle Police (IGP) in Nigerian history. defanged. Hence, the fatal final But mocking Mr. Abba’s fall, as sweet, lordbeek1@gmail.com, 08054504169 (Sms only, please) Abimbola bite! tempting or even well deserved as it is, But in this brutal swish of completely misses the point. instant punishment for Well deserved? Yeah. More than any perceived treachery, Fate other, IGP Abba epitomised the visage played a terrible double. of the security forces as shameless President Jonathan, still conspirators in looming fascism, with his Not for them that flat dismissal by Fela Anikulapo-Kuti savouring his newfound toga of “global statesman” for invasion of the House of Representatives for crass partisan (God bless his rebellious soul!), which reeks of the lean-andconceding an election he soundly lost, by firing Abba, causes. But he, as a responsible Police officer, ought to have mean wit of John Donne, the English metaphysical poet: relegated himself to yet another grumpy, vindictive African been sworn to neutrality and strict legality. Uniform na khaki, na tailor dey sew am! Big Man, unwilling to expire without the last ugly roar. He not only abysmally failed on that score, with hubris, he Which brings the discourse to the fable that Nigeria’s But the more profound anti-Abba comeuppance was the armed himself with power he never had by law. president is the most powerful in all of the universe. That emergence of Solomon Arase as acting IGP. Reportedly Mr. One, he summarily stripped Speaker Aminu Tambuwal of could be true by the way of hyperbole, to capture the sheer Abba’s senior, by year of entry (Arase’s 1981 to Abba’s 1984), his security details. Two, he bragged before the very depth and breadth of the Nigerian president’s powers under Mr. Arase’s putative reluctance to be engaged for dubious committee of the House of Representatives — incense upon the Constitution. causes reportedly led to his sidelining when Mr. Abba got incense! — that he (and who the hell was he — the courts?) But to every power, there is a limitation — except you want the job. Now, see who is going home earlier! did not recognise the Speaker because Mr. Tambuwal had to breach the law. The Constitution says so. The presidential Yet, it is unclear if Mr. Arase should laugh or cry over his defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All system, on which the Constitution is built, with its rigorous temporary triumph. By virtue of his late emergence in an Progressives’ Congress (APC). checks and balances, also says so. outgoing administration, his career too could have been That was not only a rude affront to the House, by the But all too often, most of Nigeria’s extant orders believe adversely affected. Constitution an independent branch of government. It was that costly power illusion, and expect their poor appointees, What if the new government decides to sweep away all the also a violent rape of the doctrine of separation of powers, on especially top dogs in the security agencies, to read their body service chiefs, and start on a clean slate? Perhaps the reported which presidentialism is anchored. language and merrily conspire to subvert the law. lobby in his favour, by past IGPs, could somewhat come to That, of course, was profitable careerism gone sour. That That was the Genesis to Revelation of Mr. Abba’s loud thud his aid? Maybe. Maybe not. He is due to retire in 2016, bravado, after all, seemed to have earned the ousted IGP, of a fall, in the presidential court of Goodluck Jonathan. Abba’s anyway. then acting, a confirmation. tragic grandstanding to please raised him. But it also smashed But the moral here is less for President Jonathan and more Nevertheless, Mr. Abba soon ended with pelted eggs on him. for President-elect Mohammadu Buhari. Impunity almost his face. The rotten morality of the National Assembly, Now, to the main point that must not be missed. always comes back to haunt its perpetrator. Jonathan, for all shortly after, resolved itself against PDP, its chief promoter. The cruel joke may be on IGP Abba for earning a sack from his advertised meekness, was not shy of playing God. Yet, A gale of house defections — which PDP had soullessly vile careerism. But the overall shame is on a manipulative his own hand-picked IGP ditched him the moment he became pushed all its power years to subvert the opposition and the President Jonathan, who shopped around for a pliant hand to lame-duck! Constitution — made Alhaji Tambuwal Speaker, de facto and skew an election he knew full well, from his rotten Therefore, Gen. Buhari cannot, like most of his predecessors, de jure, when his APC gained the majority. Mr. Abba therefore performance record, he deserved to lose — and with ignominy. afford to play the misguided but tragic Leviathan that, at ate bitter crow, and restored the Speaker’s full security. While Jonathan eyed four more years of undeserved whims, twists and turns the Constitution to partisan and selfBut make no mistake. Mr. Abba was no devil any more presidential power, Abba eyed no less than four years as IGP. serving ends. than any of his predecessors was — or indeed, any of his If that meant helping Jonathan to achieve his goal, it was Let security chiefs be appointed solely on merit; not on successors would be — a saint. only a blissful marriage of two sweet dreams. Even if Mr. their perceived duplicity to subvert the law against the His action — silly then, silly now and silly if repeated in Abba’s police would lose respect as a vicious PDP rod, the political opposition. Jonathan and Abba fell flat on their future — was only driven by the bad power socialisation of end would justify the meanness (apologies to Prof. Wole faces — good! But they were not the first to attempt such. Nigeria’s extant orders, to make an ass of the same law that Soyinka) in career sweetness! Neither will they be the last. temporarily propelled over and above fellow citizens. The gamey IGP proved his commitment to this dubious But Gen. Buhari must strive for a radical and positive change cause, when he half-appealed, half-threatened voters to depart in attitude. That is the surest way to deepen our democratic “Let security chiefs be appointed the voting zone immediately after voting, despite INEC’s institutions.

epublican ipples

solely on merit; not on their perceived duplicity to subvert the law against the political opposition”

ETIRED General Muhammad Buhari’s presidential electoral victory of February the 28, has attracted an admixture of favours and misfortune to both the leadership and citizenry of the Nigerian state. It is truly a fortune to Nigeria for what such a victory portends for the mental re-engineering of Nigerians most of whom have unabashedly embraced corruption as a way of life. Yet it is a misfortune for it altered rather destructively, albeit partially, the political configuration of the country, which was hitherto fragmented through the agency of political parties, thereby beclouding the electorate’s senses of perception in certain parts of the country, into voting sheepishly and uncritically all in the name of pursuing the much desired change through the instrumentality of Buhari. And one wonders whether most of the candidates so voted at the governorship and senatorial polls and subsequently declared winners and returned elected or reelected have anything in common with Buhari. I thought it appropriate to contribute this piece in view of the mono-dimensional nature of most of the comments and contributions made so far to navigate before the General an express way to fighting corruption in the country. Such contributions seem to have promoted the perception that corruption cannot but be economic in nature. I venture to call attention to religious corruption or corruption in religion and more importantly academic corruption or corruption in educational settings. It may not be out of place to articulate the rationale for my decision to address such an important aspect of corruption that is hardly accorded its deserved attention in our national discourse. I am a teacher trainer with professional experience covering no fewer than four universities, three at home and one overseas. I am actively involved in teacher preparation in a number of universities in Nigeria and have seized the opportunity of my engagement with both students and lecturers to collect data across disciplines, across universities and across the years, with a view to conducting systematic studies on various dimensions of corrupt tendencies in Nigerian colleges and universities. Yet I shall, in the present article, restrict myself to the teacher factor in tertiary educational corruption. The incoming administration may need to show interest in who teaches and how teaching is done in our tertiary educational institutions. It certainly will interest the administration to learn that not all those who teach in such settings have any business with education. When a teacher teaches what he knows not, the outcome of such an exercise is better imagined than experienced. And when a teacher is deficient in knowledge and skills, it may not really matter whether students work hard to excel or not. Scientific stud-

So long, Abba

From Taiwo Osunsanya to Ekiti Re: Ekiti, sick boy of Yorubaland?: Each time I read all the negatives pertaining to Fayose’s rudderless leadership, I chuckle not because we often forget to attribute his coming

to right quarters. Ekiti deserves a better leadership. But we should blame Fayose’s “progressive” predecessors who unknowingly paved his way to power. Ilupeju, Lagos.

The other corruption Buhari must fight

suppressed. Yet, there are brilliant lecturers virtually every where even though the sub-standard elements are fast outnumbering them. When an empty-headed teacher operates in an educational setting and attains the peak of his career one can imagine how colossal his damage to the system is. Nigeria’s educational system is fast getting predominantly peopled by wrong sets of certificate carriers and such an unfortunate experience flourishes unchallenged. One is constrained to ask whether having a poorly trained pilot fly a plane will not culminate in an immediate crash. One is equally constrained to ask whether having a surgery performed by a quack surgeon will not culminate in a death. One is equally constrained to ask whether the legal profession is not sensitive about the quality of legal professional practice. Although not without their own degree of corruption, the aforementioned professions place premium on professionalism and are able to monitor and control their operations through non-university based professional bodies. Conversely, a lecturer can spend two hours teaching nonsense in the lecture room, unchallenged, for there is no monitoring. He can also make as much money as he wishes and sleep with as many students as he likes or even attract from his students building materials for his housing projects, without being questioned. At the end of it all, highest bidders among students attract highest scores. That explains why we are no longer able to distinguish between good scores that were earned by sharp brains and high grades that were achieved with big boobs. Okey Ndibe once wrote about sexually transmitted degrees and I venture to say that only a meticulous observer can appreciate and distinguish the academically earned degrees from the sexually and romantically achieved as well as the materially or financially attracted certificates. Little wonders that many of today’s graduates from our universities cannot write a good paragraph. Aside the ubiquitous publications that lecturers present for elevations, which have now become the easiest thing for university lecturers, can there also not be an efficacious quality-assuring mechanism to determine the worth of every teacher? Can there not also be an effective strategy to sanction the morally bankrupt teachers? Can there not be a good and meaningful way of rewarding hard-work and commendable scholarship? Can there not be a credible means of making lecturers with integrity proud of their own incorruptible nature rather than persecute and coerce them into criminal compliance or irrational conformity.

By Saheed Ahmad Rufai ies have revealed that a teacher with low academic quality is not likely to have academic integrity. And where there is no integrity, it may not be out of place for a teacher to give marks for sex or for cash. Consequently, some lecturers are ready to give you any score no matter how high, as long as you are ready to pay. And now that such sub-standard teachers are fast growing in number owing to our questionable retention system, the academically sound and morally upright ones most times feel unsafe and insecure. This is because every scores inflator, marks manipulator or randy lecturer has an academic godfather to protect him or her. It is only in rare circumstances that a case concerning a lecturer’s insistence on exposing his fraudulent colleague is decided in favour of the ‘puritanist’ lecturer. Why is he trying to expose him? Why is he always complaining about corruption? Is there an incorruptible one in Nigeria? What does it profit him to expose his colleague? These are some of the comments that are normally generated by an anti-corruption stance among lecturers, which is why our faculties are now bereft of radical and outspoken academics. The corrupt teacher finds a fertile ground in the lazy and fraudulent students who are ever-willing to ‘pay’ for high grades in whatever form. Accordingly, corrupt academic practices have now become a joint venture between lecturers and students. Given that every public university in Nigeria has some percentage of sub-standard lecturers who can hardly write or speak well and as such bribe, influence or manipulate their way to even becoming professors, students with tempting material or other forms of gratifications find no strain in earning high grades and most of them even end up becoming lecturers. This is so because once they are assisted to graduate with inexplicably high grades, they are encouraged by their academic god-fathers to proceed to higher levels and within a twinkle of an eye, are declared as having successfully completed their doctorates! I dare not share with Nigerians how some lecturers navigate their ways to doctorates within their departments and how any lecturer attempting to shout ‘foul’ is horrendously

• Rufai, Ph.D teaches at Sokoto State University.

THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 28, 2015

COMMENTS

FTER six years of lack-lustre performance, President Goodluck Jonathan is expected to relinquish Nigeria’s presidency on My 29, 2015. But like the proverbial Whiteman that defecates on the chair before vacating his seat, Jonathan is bent on leaving behind some mess for the incoming administration. The All Progressives Congress (APC) has raised concern over what it called last minute looting of the nation’s resources, secret sales of government property and massive recruitment into the public service by the departing Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) led Federal Government. While these might not be entirely true, it behoves the Jonathan administration to tread with caution, its last days in office, in order not to create problems for the incoming administration. And one of such likely problems is the planned handover of the job of protecting the nation’s oil/gas pipelines and waterways to former militants and self determination groups by President Jonathan. Barring any last minute change, former Niger Delta militants/ warlords, Government Ekpemupolo (aka Tompolo), Mujaheedin Asari-Dokubo and Chief Bipobiri Ajube (aka Gen. Shoot-At-Sight) together with Dr Frederick Faseun and Ganiyu Adams of Oodua Peoples Congress (OPC), should be in charge of protecting these vital economic facilities. They were billed to take over from the various security agencies yesterday. Looking at the implications of contracting out such important duty of government to private individuals/companies, to the security of state, one would have expected President Jonathan to leave the decision on the outsourcing of such assignment to the incoming administration. The pipelines and waterways are treasured national assets that should not be placed in the hands of anybody or group of people other than agents of the state. Considering the cry over poor funding of our armed forces and other security agencies, the N9.3 billion to be expended on the pipeline protection contract for the former militants could go a long way in adequately arming the Nigerian Navy and the Nigeria Police to provide the needed security for these pipelines and our waterways. These are bodies/ organizations statutorily empowered to carry

IT is highly debatable whether it is proper to set an agenda for progress and development for an elected government which presumably got the highest number of votes on the basis of its manifesto. However it has been a tortuous journey to the moment when a ruling party in Nigeria could be voted out of power for poor performance. There are many gaps to fill and mistakes to correct such that patriots cannot afford to be aloof. The moment calls on hands on deck for a fresh beginning. In this respect one is happy that the President-elect General Muhammadu Buhari has already promised to ‘lead a government founded on values that promote and protect fundamental human rights and freedoms, the supremacy of the Constitution and rule of law…and to build a country that is fair to all its citizens…respects human dignity, promotes human development…equality…and freedom….’ I see here the recognition of some of our past weaknesses which include wrong philosophy of governance or inappropriate ideology of development, exclusion of the state from economic activities, low citizenry participation, disregard for the provisions of the constitution, infrastructural decay, rural neglect, corruption, insecurity, unemployment especially youth’s to mention just a few. While it needless to ask for a proper focus on these problems, the year 1999 when the country returned to democracy provided opportunity for a fresh start but which was botched by the ruling elites by taking the wrong road. As I observed in my book Power of Youth and Other Essays on the Political Economy of Nigeria the wrong step was informed by a number of factors -both local and international that must guided against henceforth. These include influence of international politics of ideology as was re-ignited by Margaret Thatcher in Britain and Ronald Reagan in the USA in the 1980s to the effect that the market is the engine of development and the state has no business with doing business; the fall of USSR and the belief that socialism was dead; the influence of western media in projecting the capitalist ideology across the globe in the name of globalization, the persuasive activities of the IMF, the World Bank on developing countries to embrace western market based model of development, the poor knowledge and lack of creative thinking and development-oriented nation-building local elites as well as emergence of false prophets in the

That pipeline protection contract out the job of protecting these facilities, and if for whatever reason they have been unable to do so effectively, the solution is not to outsource their duties, but to ensure they carry out such duties. Moreover it is doubtful if any of these contractors have any requisite knowledge or training on how to carry out the assignment. Giving them the contract amounts to merely giving ‘job to the boys’ to keep them quiet or away from crime. While it is good and even necessary for government to either provide gainful employment for all or create a conducive environment for everybody so willing to be gainfully employed, this kind of job being given to Tompolo and others is beyond their level of competence and should be stopped immediately. If Jonathan insists on going ahead with the contract, the incoming administration on taking over power should halt the implementation as soon as possible. If the government feels there is a need for a special force to be in charge of protecting these facilities, it should create such and put under its control, just like it created the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to take care of road safety matters and drug law enforcement in the country. I had complained about this contract in the past when it was first mooted. I have nothing personal against the people involved, but I believe that the security of state, including that

of the citizens and vital state facilities/resources should not be put in the hands of private individuals. And considering the past activities of some of those benefiting from the contract, I believe it amounts to rewarding criminality if those who had at one time or another taken up arms against the government in the past, should be so rewarded, if at all they should be rewarded, the Niger Delta amnesty programme notwithstanding. While the incoming General Muhammadu Buhari’s administration has promised not to probe Jonathan or any of his predecessors, this type of pipeline protection contract could leave the new government with no choice than to look into the books of the outgoing government. And Nigerians would definitely understand if the new government came to this. There are some actions of the Jonathan government that would and should definitely be looked into. No responsible government would want to close its eyes to the disappearance of 20 billion USD oil earning not remitted into the federation account by the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) as alleged by the former governor of Central Bank of Nigeria, Alhaji Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, the Emir of Kano. Sanusi, as CBN government made the allegation and instead of Jonathan looking into it fired the apex bank boss. It is believed that Sanusi’s appointment as Emir of Kano probably prevented Jonathan from further persecuting for making the revelation.

Long travel on the wrong road By John I. Abhuere corridors of power many of them novices in development issues or nation-building matters. One of the results was the wrongly taken private–sector market driven economic patha somewhat breach of the constitution. Rather than being guided by the provisions of the 1999 constitution, the government adopted the wrong philosophy of excluding the state from economic activities in the name of globalization of which privatization is a major plank. It was a step informed by blind loyalty and uncritical embrace of an inappropriate ideology that was bereft of reason, historical and constitutional support. In this way the state was sent on leave of absence for 16 years. Yet according to the 1999 Constitution, the ‘security and welfare of the people’ shall be the primary purpose of government and the ‘participation of the people in their government’ should be ensured. Also the state ‘’shall harness the resources of the nation to promote national prosperity and an efficient, a dynamic and self reliant economy’; and it should ‘control the national economy in such manner as to secure the maximum welfare, freedom and happiness of every citizen on the basis of social justice and equality of status and opportunity’. It is clear from the foregoing that the constitution envisages state intervention but instead of this the elites excluded the state and went ahead with a bogus privatization which saw the sale of public enterprise that swelled the unemployment load without any attempt to establish labor-intensive industries. What stopped us from having a national carrier, more refineries, and agro –based industries except economic heresy from abroad? But such exclusion of the state was bad development –economics and a-historical. It is akin to denying the best player of a football team from playing in a crucial competition on the ground that it is not right to win through him. The state in developing countries has more muscle than the private sector to lead and drive the economy. The private sector is still at its infancy and thus weak. Values such as trust, honesty, and discipline are in short supply in Nigeria. Above all the purpose of

the state is to provide for the security, and welfare of the people and thus in a better position to mobilize necessary resources to do the needful including the provision of employment. Most of the problems of today were all there - unemployment, insecurity, rural neglect, infrastructural deficiency, corruption etc and they required strong frontier attack than the indirect approach of the market adopted by the ruling elites. It is needless to remind us that the country has been in serious economic crisis long before 1999.And the state has a duty to resolve the crisis. In the history of nation-building, the state has always led in the mobilization of resources to lay appropriate infrastructure in order to drive growth and development. The USA used the approach in its formative years in the 18th, 19th century and would use it in the 1920s & 30s era of the great depression to stimulate recovery, and even in this century2008 to resolve serious financial crisis. The Marshal plan for Europe after the World War 11 was nothing else than massive state intervention. Dubai, Singapore, China etc are driven on the principle of government-led development efforts. The new government must not give room to the false prophets of development to misdirect the country again because they are novices in nation-building in developing countries. They lack the ability for creative thinking and adaptation of global ideas to local condition. They chase shadows rather than the substance of solving the daily problems of our country. The new government must work out an appropriate philosophy or ideology of development based on justice, equity and fairplay to be preached and driven by a well as-

President-elect, Buhari is right in saying he would look into the books on this matter once he assumes office on May 29, 2015. Nigerians would understand why. We need to know who was saying the truth; Sanusi or Jonathan’s government that says no $20billion was missing. Corruption is at the root of our problems in this country and until issues like the alleged missing oil money is satisfactorily dealt with and the truth uncovered, and punishment meted out if necessary; corruption will continue to thrive in Nigeria. $20billion is big money and no effort must be spared by Buhari to uncover the truth and no sacred cow must be left untouched if at all somebody or some people tampered with that money. The president-elect should also look into the bogus oil subsidy being paid by the federal government to importers of petrol. This is another platform where Nigeria is being defrauded of huge sums of money. The fraudulent practices are not of monetary nature alone. There is so much fraud in our electoral system which if not stopped could derail this democracy. The last general elections and the sham that took place in Rivers and Akwa Ibom States just to mention a few, in the name of election was enough to show that all is not well with our democracy in spite of the worldwide kudos given to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and its chairman, Attahiru Jega for a job well done. It was glaring that no election took place in these two states and yet results, votes, running into millions were declared. Who did the voting? While the judiciary should be left alone to determine whether it was right for INEC to declare result in the face of so many irregularities in these states, conscious efforts should be made by the Buhari administration to reform our electoral system such that votes would count. It would be wise for the incoming administration to look into the Justice Uwais Commission report in this regard. As Jonathan prepares his hand over notes, it is hoped that the president would make himself available to the new government for clarification on some of his actions if need be. Let us thank the president once again for that concession speech. For once in six years, he did something good. sembled development oriented and nationalunity conscious elite. Another serious mistake of the past was the alienation of majority citizens through barren, harsh and unrewarding policies. One of the consequences was low citizenry participation which is one of the reasons for policy failure of the era 1999-2015. Any casual observer of the Nigerian scene would appreciate that many Nigerians did not bond with the development vision of the government since 1999. For instance many people did not understand what NEEDS, 7-point agenda and Transformational agenda were all about. Yet without people understanding and buying into the leadership vision, nothing much can be achieved in the development arena. The mobilization of the citizen to share in the leadership vision should be the starting point of this administration. Because the country was on the wrong road, many things went wrong too: corruption, injustice, immorality, profanity, unethical conduct etc were on the increase. She failed or was unable to appreciate where the shoes pinched most. Otherwise national statistics had since revealed that about 60% of the nation’s active population are youths and that unemployment was very high in the country – 40% (about 40 million) people most of them youths, thereby becoming a source of threat to the economy. With over 40 million unemployed, one needs not to be specialist to know that the country was sitting on a keg of gun powder. All these largely explain the rise of more militia groups, kidnapping groups and terrorist sects such as Boko Haram. And they also explain the sprawling poverty and underdevelopment across the country today. All these must be given utmost attention through frontal attack by the state at not the indirect approach of the market. • Abhuere, FNIM, writes from Uromi

‘With over 40 million unemployed, one needs not to be specialist to know that the country was sitting on a keg of gun powder. All these largely explain the rise of more militia groups, kidnapping groups and terrorist sects such as Boko Haram. And they also explain the sprawling poverty and underdevelopment across the country today. All these must be given utmost attention through frontal attack by the state at not the indirect approach of the market’

TUESDAY, APRIL 28, 2015

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If, for instance, education is made a fundamental right, then there will be less resources for the executive to steal or mismanage. President Jonathan with few enduring legacies, should consider reaching a compromise with the legislators, instead of the double dealings against greater national interests.

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See page 39

E-mail:- law@thenationonlineng.net

He was a Judge for 10 years. He practised as a lawyer for 19 years. Now in retirement, Justice Babasola Ogunade is into consultancy, which allows him more time for God’s work. Justice Ogunade is the Chancellor of the Diocese of Lagos West, Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion). In this interview with JOSEPH JIBUEZE, he speaks on what makes a great judge; life in retirement; why being a judge is challenging; his expectations of the incoming Buhari administration and the need for more voter education to reduce ‘money politics’. ARE you satisfied with your time on the Bench?

ment from the apron strings of whether federal or state administration. I understand that the emolument and remuneration of judges rarely comes under First Charge on revenue. They have managed to relegate it to this stage that judges have almost become beggars. Those who are serving will have their own story to tell. You’re left under the whims and caprices of whoever becomes the governor. It’s just not right, particularly for a person who believes that he has given of his best and has not for any time soiled his hands and is satisfied with the sacrifices he made. And when you retire, you’re going to be left short of funds. Even that which has been given to you, you may not be having it on time. I don’t think it’s the best.

F you have done your best while in service, in retirement you will feel happy that you have done your best. If you work according to your oath of office, then you should leave it better than you met it. That is my satisfaction.

How did you join the Bench? A good number of us went to the Bench not because we aspired to. I was a full time legal practitioner from the first day of my call to the Bar until I was invited to come to the Bench. I did not apply. I did not lobby anybody. In actual fact it’s like I was dragged into it. I was first asked to come to the Bench in the mid 1980s but I didn’t take it, for two reasons. The way that judges were retired in 1975/76 by the Murtala/Obasanjo regime – I felt it was an unnecessary intrusion into the affairs of the temple of justice.

What do you make of allegations of corruption on the Bench? Today you talk about corruption in the judiciary. I don’t really know what it is. There may be some (who are corrupt) because of human failings, but it’s not as all embracing as it’s made to appear by politicians and unfortunately even by the media. They expect judges to be prosecutors. For instance, someone has stolen. Those who are going to prosecute will not bring evidence, and when the judge gives judgment according to the evidence before him, he will then be the one who has done ill.

What was wrong with how the judges were retired? I knew of two people who were retired in Lagos. One was in the limelight of the Bar when he was in practice. And on the Bench, he was someone that everyone was looking up to. The reason for his retirement was only made known to him after they had retired him. And when they heard him, they said: ‘We’re sorry, we didn’t have the facts.’ And most unfortunately, the Attorney-General at that time was a solicitor of the Supreme Court. In order to make up for it, they converted his compulsory retirement to voluntary retirement. It’s a long story. Because even though they knew the facts, one of those ones who played a prominent role in their retirement knowing all the facts came round to write a book to malign the character of that judge. So, when you have seen that kind of treatment, how are you encouraged to go to the Bench?

What do you miss most about the Bench?

So, what convinced you to go to the Bench? The first time I was asked, I said I was satisfied with what I was doing; I didn’t want it. But you realise that it is a position of honour. No matter what anybody says, the highest point you can reach as a lawyer is for you to become a judge. It’s the other way round in this country. In England I do know that a number of the High Court judges there are Queens Counsel (QCs), and they always regard it as an honour when they are invited to the Bench. But it’s not the same thing here. In the end, I had to surrender and I accepted to go to the Bench.

Did your earning increase while on the Bench?

INSIDE:

The way I met the Bench wasn’t anything to write home about. One, my income was reduced by almost 75 per cent. But I didn’t complain because I knew what I was going into. I felt satisfied with what I had done in practice. And I was sure I could manage with whatever I earned. So the usual temptation that people have, to want to cut corners – I didn’t have it, maybe because of my family background.

When judges, magistrates turned against journalists -Page 27

•Justice Ogunade (rtd)

‘Treat corrupt judges like criminals’ I’m satisfied that I gave of my best.

Are you satisfied with the way retired judges are treated? My view is that having done your best for the Bench, you shouldn’t be among those going cap in hand to ask for your pension. And I think it’s worse here because your earning is tied to the apron string of state executives. They are the ones who will pay you if you have served in the states. I think they are trying to improve upon that now. Most of the time it’s for the governor to say: ‘I don’t

Lawyers hail CLA conference -Page 39

have money for pension. We’re struggling to have money’. Without being partisan, the present governor of Ogun State has been doing his best for retired judges until last September when he had to confess that the income of the state had been drastically reduced to the extent they had to look for money through internally generated revenue.

How can this anomaly be rectified? I think effort should be made to totally separate both serving and retired judges’ emolu-

I miss the regular interaction with lawyers in the court. Any practitioner who had enjoyed his practice will always appreciate what it is, especially when you have lawyers who know their onions. You miss all that. Unfortunately as a judge, you have more or less been secluded from society. Many of your friends would have deserted you when you are on the Bench. And when you leave, before they start coming back to you, it takes some time. I remember I was at a party. One of my childhood friends who I grew up with and went to school with, a reputable professional in his own right - he sarcastically said: ‘You’re the learned people, we’re not learned.’ This is the sort of attitude that people have generally. That’s the fate that we suffer. You’re there but your friends don’t come to you anymore. And when they see you, the attention is rather cursory. It’s not as cordial as it used to be. So it takes a while to start warming yourself into their embrace again.

Would you say the life of a judge is challenging? It is challenging. As a lawyer, friends come to you. The moment you are appointed a judge, your friends and clients keep you at arm’s length. It’s for good reason because I had done that to my friends who became judges. The moment they are appointed judges, I keep my distance from them, because of the society in which we live. And you sort of suffer that isolation. What is worse is that you are isolated from your friends, even from your extended family. It becomes such that you are restricted to your immediate family, because you never know the reason people would be •Continued page 26

Stakeholders seek laws to regulate used car importation -Page 40

THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 28, 2015

LAW COVER CONT’D body would come to me, but they would tell my friends that I was the one who had prevented them from having an oba in their town. But as far as I’m concerned I’ve done my best. I didn’t invite anybody to bring a case to me. They brought it and I gave judgment according to evidence. Having done that I have no apologies.

What can be done to limit interlocutory appeals? By the various reforms being done, I think they are trying to find a way of limiting interlocutory appeals. But the instance I gave you, it was not a problem of interlocutory appeal. It’s the final judgment that they appealed against. Then a lot of things came into it. Again if I may suggest, serving judges are made to do a lot of other things, which eat into their judicial time. There may be a tribunal of enquiry, but they won’t trust a retired judge to handle it. They will ask a serving judge to do it. Speaking for myself – myself alone – I don’t see how we should inundate the highest court of the land, the appellate courts and the High Courts with election matters. You can imagine how long election matters take.

So who should handle such cases?

•Justice Ogunade (rtd)

‘Treat corrupt judges like criminals’ •Continued from page 25 coming to look for you in the house.

Do you see that as good or bad for a judge? Well, it’s a mixed bag. There are a few lawyers who have not been quite helpful. They say all sorts of things to their clients. ‘We’re friends, I know him, I’ll go and see him for you’. He would come towards your chambers, perhaps speak to your clerk, and he would go back and say: ‘It’s all done; it’s finished.’ So the client believes when he gets to the court, he’s going to get judgment, whether rightly or wrongly. If he doesn’t get it, he turns around and says: ‘That judge is corrupt; he took money from me.’ Sometimes it’s better for you to minimise your association with people. It’s not too much of an advantage on the other hand, because there are times you would want someone to share a burden with, not necessarily with your wife, but it’s an immediate burden you feel you want to share with someone. You could think X is your friend, then you caution yourself. ‘Do I know what advantage he will take of my discussion with him?’ So, it’s challenging.

How about working conditions? What is worse is the atmosphere under which judges work. Lagos is an exception. For a quite a while, the state has been taken care of their judges. Wherever they have designated as judges quarters are judges quarters. It’s not the same in other states. If you go to some states now, what used to be judges’ quarters had been sold or shared among other people, except the judge had come from that area and has his own house, which in itself is not helpful. There is no longer that atmosphere of serenity or privacy.

Did you have any such experience? There was a time during my career on the Bench when I had to live in hired accommodation. That is bad enough, because everybody you see is a potential litigant. What is worse? At some point, my landlord and his son had a controversial case in my court. I didn’t know anything about it. I saw the papers in the office, and thought: ‘This surname sounds like that of my landlord, but it doesn’t matter.’ You have taken oath to do justice to all manner of people irrespective of their relationship with you. A week after I started the case, bingo came an anonymous letter from someone saying: ‘Yes, you live in his house. We know you have compromised your position. You’ve taken a bribe of N1million from him. But don’t forget, we know your father and your mother. They are

good people. Don’t soil their name.’ You could see the danger. Then in the town, it’s all over the place. ‘What justice are you expecting? They live together.’ The young man whose case was before me lived directly opposite my house. I didn’t know it until this case started. When his father was going to his house, he passed by mine. So you can really see the danger to which you are exposed. The judges before me in that jurisdiction had been living in that house. When I was transferred to the place, which happened to be my hometown, the house was in a shambles. Sometimes I’d receive anonymous letters. Some would say: ‘We know the way you take to Lagos; we’re coming to double-cross you on the road.’ These are the challenges you have in an effort to do your work.

Are judges more at risk? The way I see the position of a judge, particularly a judge of first instance – magistrates and judges – they are the ones who will see the litigants take evidence, write judgments, and be seen by the litigants everyday. On appeal, the appellate justices look at records. They don’t need to know anybody. In fact it’s sufficient for them for the lawyer to just come. But the judge is the one seeing the litigants. They know you, they can ask questions about you. So you can see that it’s a sacred job, but at the same time one that endangers your life. But quite a number of us, because we believe in God that you’re not going to do what is wrong, so no matter what effort you make, one is not afraid.

Was there a particular judgment you regretted giving? I cannot remember one. This is not really self-praise. I am human and fallible, but I have not deliberately gone out of my way to give judgment in favour of anybody who by my own judgment does not deserve it. I had not.

Was there any particular challenging case you handled? This particular one was a chieftaincy dispute. I did it as I thought would bring peace to the town. Both sides appealed. Both sides accused me, saying I did it to just push them away. I gave judgment in 1997 but the case is still lingering in court till today. There was an appeal from 1997. It took 13 years before judgment was delivered. After 13 years they went to the Supreme Court. It’s been lying there for about three years. Unfortunately I would go into the town; no-

There are judges who are retired. You can make enquiries about them. And you can use those of them who will not compromise under any ground. Why can’t you ask them to handle some of these things instead of dragging serving judges into it, and in the course of it, they are maligned? There were a lot of unproven cases of bribery after the 2007 and 2011 elections. There were even cases where judges were retired because of allegations of collecting bribe. If their excuse is that if a retired judge collects bribe, he cannot be disciplined, has bribery stopped being a criminal offence? If a person has committed a criminal offence, why can’t you prosecute him? If a person who has a public duty to perform collects bribe, and you’re able to prove it that he collected bribe, why can’t you prosecute him? Prosecute him and send him to jail! Even if you say you cannot discipline him internally, you let the law take its course.

Why does NJC not allow serving judges accused of corruption to be tried rather retiring them? I don’t know. Speaking for myself, I wouldn’t know why. Look at what happens in other climes. You do anything that people believe is scandalous, or is criminal, you get arrested. Investigations will be done. If they find that you’re culpable, you’re prosecuted. If they’re able to prove their case, you go to jail - just as it happens to politicians and the rest of them. Nobody is above the law as far as I know.

How would you rate the standard of judgments today compared to your time? Without really intending to denigrate anybody, standards generally are falling. The tool of a judge are books. You have to give them books. A judge is supposed to have a library. Ask any judge to show you their library, even library in the court and look at what is there. I am saying this because I know. It has happened to me. As a practitioner, anywhere I had gone I was carrying my own books. I was carrying my entire library with me everywhere I went. The judiciary is badly funded. Regular law reports that should be made available to you are not there. I do believe they’re improving on that now. I understand that some allowances are being given for you to buy books and things like that. I can say that of Lagos. I’m not a judge in Lagos but I see what they do.

How can the problem be addressed? It could be better. If you don’t equip a man, how do you expect him to produce? You ask a man to go and till a farm and you give him a dead hoe, what do you expect him to produce? Regular training is needed. There is the National Judicial Institute where judges undergo periodic training, but they should intensify that. You live on computer now. You should have a situation in which you equip the courts, put in sufficient power, so that they can use the electronic devices that you give them. Before I left practice, I remember the many efforts that were made to put electronics in the courts. But the thing would not just work. You could be making use of them and suddenly you have a power surge and it wipes

away all your records. That’s worse than using my long hand to write. I wrote in long hand for 10 years. I do know of judge who was advised by a doctor that if he’s not going to lose the use of his hands, he should retire. That is why occasionally when judges retire, you will be wondering what happened to them. Three or four years after retirement, he’s a ghost of himself. A man will be about 70 and he will appear like an 80year-old. And it’s because of the atmosphere in which they had been working. All these things could be better.

You mentioned that you were invited to the bench. Is it not better to ask people to apply to be judges? I tell you this. That is what makes it beautiful. In England, nobody ever applies to be a judge. You don’t apply to be a judge. The Attorney-General would have done some enquires. He would ask for some names to be shortlisted. Many judges were practitioners. If you were a treasury lawyer, you would begin your career there and end it there. You won’t assume that the next position is to be a judge, unlike what you have here. People from the department of justice of those days, the moment you become a Director of Public Prosecution (DPP), the next thing you’re looking forward to is to be made a judge. When you have looked at the quality of practice, even in the official Bar, and they found that one is a good material, there is nothing wrong with an appointment being made that way.

What do you think is wrong with advertising it? The moment you start asking people to apply, you know what happens? There is going to be lobbying. It’s going to be about who knows who. I think it’s much more dignifying to be invited. A man will appear in court, and the Chief Judge will say: ‘When you’re going please see me….I’m considering including your name in the next list of appointments. Go and think about it.’ Sometimes they don’t have to ask you. If they find that what you’re doing is good, they will put your name and inform you that you have been appointed a judge. If the environment is good, nobody will be told that he is appointed a judge and he will refuse it. But due to poor earning, poor treatment, that is why you find that if you offer people who are in the inner bar (SANs) judgeship, they will say: ‘What, I’m not going to touch it.’ But in other areas, QCs (Queens Counsel) take such offers with open arms.

Do you agree with suggestions that the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) be appointed from outside of the Supreme Court? What is he coming to do there? Practicing as a lawyer is not the same thing as having gone through the hierarchy as a judge. An advocate looks at his clients. Whether his case is right or wrong, he takes it, although ethically you’re expected to advise your client. Many practitioners don’t look at the ethics of the profession. If the money is right, they will look for the law. An eminent jurist once said: ‘When I’m in practice, I don’t care whether I’m right or wrong. You pay me the right money, and I’m going to find the law to deal with it. When I became a judge, I started looking for where I can do justice.’ If there is a case before him in which he finds that ordinarily, someone should be given judgment, if he is able to find a law that will support him, he will use it. That is not the concern of a Senior Advocate. They (SANs) are industrious; they are supposed to be hard working. But for you to skip the High Court, the Court of Appeal, and the Supreme Court – I know they are agitating for it, but speaking for myself, I pray that day will not come. Those who had been there (Supreme Court), do they lack knowledge? You only need to be more selective in your appointment. Forget about Federal Character. Look for the best. This Federal Character is what is killing all our institutions. Look for the best and put the best there.

What about the argument that it’s been done before? I must admit we have had two instances. One of them rose to become the CJN – that is Justice Teslim Elias. But that is an exceptional case. He was not practicing, and was more •Continued on page 27

THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 28, 2015

LAW & SOCIETY Judges and magistrates have barred journalists from covering some cases, including those considered to be in the public interest. A recent example involved Justice Aishat Opesanwo, who walked journalists out during a robbery trial. Are such cases supposed to be heard in ‘private?’ PRECIOUS IGBONWELUNDU asks.

When judges, magistrates turned against journalists

•Chief Judge of Lagos State, Justice Olufunmilayo Atilade.

T started with Magistrate O.O. Martins of Lagos Magistrates‘ Court, Igbosere in 2012, who, on several occasions, walked reporters out of her courtroom for no reason. At first, journalists thought it was probably because the cases in question were among those for exemption as provided for in Section 36(4) of the 1999 Constitution and as such, obeyed her directive. Unfortunately, that was not the case as the Magistrate one morning openly said: “I don’t want reporters in my court,” irrespective of the fact that the cases she handles neither jeopardise state security, involve minors, nor endanger public health. This reporter decided to confirm the complaints from her colleagues who she had chased out before from her courtroom. So, that fateful morning in 2012, she was among the first callers at the court and quietly sat on the last bench awaiting the arrival of Magistrate Martins to commence the day’s proceeding.

As soon as she came in and was about to start taking matters, one of her support staff walked up to her and whispered something in her ear. The look on Martins’ face was anything, but unpleasant as she yelled: “I have said it severally that I do not want journalists in my court. What are you doing here? Get out of this place and let no reporter ever come to this court again.” Seeing her so enraged, the reporter quietly, but angrily left her court and never went there again till date. As if that was not enough, a High Court Judge, Justice Aishat Opesanwo, last week banned reporters from covering a murder trial in her courtroom on grounds that “it is a private matter.” Unlike Magistrate Martins, Justice Opesanwo was calm as she told the three female reporters seated at the gallery to leave the court because they were not needed. Aside the two examples person-

ally witnessed, incidences abound where reporters have reportedly been humiliated and sent out of courtrooms by judicial officers in outright violation of the constitution, which clearly categorises a court as a public place. As if to borrow a leave from their learned brothers on the Bench, instances abound where some lawyers, who came late to court and could not secure seats at the Bar, have asked reporters to vacate their seats at the gallery for them. There was a particular case at the Federal High Court, Lagos, before Justice Ajumogobia, where a latecomer lawyer tapped a reporter on his shoulder and said “get up I want to sit down.” Initially, the reporter ignored him thinking he would respect himself and leave, but when he persisted, the angry reporter scolded him to the hearing of the judge, who also reprimanded the lawyer. However, most reporters have expressed worries over this cold war or seeming disdain for them by judicial officers, who see their presence in courts as intruding rather than fulfilling their constitutional obligations. Some have wondered whether the actions of the judicial officers were as a result of sheer ignorance of the law or because they have skeletons in their cupboards, which they do not want the journalists to uncover. They are worried that as custodians of the law, judicial officers who should, at all times, uphold the constitution, have turned to lawbreakers.

What the law says The Constitution in Section 36 (3) expressly classified a court as a pub-

lic place and went further in 36 (4) to state thus: “whenever any person is charged with a criminal offence, he shall, unless the charge is withdrawn, be entitled to a fair hearing in public within a reasonable time by a court or tribunal. “Provided that (a) a court or such tribunal may exclude from its proceedings persons other than the parties thereto or their legal practitioners in the interest of defence, public safety, public order, public morality, the welfare of persons, who have not attained the age of (18) eighteen years, the protection of the private lives of the parties or to such extent as it may consider necessary by reason of special circumstances in which publicity would be contrary to the interests of justice. “(b) If in any proceeding before a court or such a tribunal, a Minister of the government of the federation or a Commissioner of a state satisfies the court or tribunal that it would not be in the public interest for any matter to be publicly disclosed, the court or tribunal shall make arrangements for evidence relating to that matter to be heard in Private and shall take such other action as may be necessary or expedient to prevent the disclosure of the matter. Similarly, the Supreme Court in the case of Nigerian Arab Bank (NAB) vs. Barri Engineering (1995) cited in the Nigerian Weekly Law Report (NWLR) (pt. 413) 257 at 290; as well as the Court of Appeal in Asani Kosebinu vs Misri Aliyu (2005), stated categorically that the courtroom is a public place and the only place where court proceedings can take place. While nullifying the delivery of

judgment in-chambers by judges, the court cited Justice Ogundare (JSC) thus: “A judge’s chambers is not one of the regular court rooms nor is it a place to which the public have right to ingress and egress as of right except on invitation by or permission of the judge. “It is my firm and considered view that a place qualifies under Section 36 (3) of the Constitution to be called “public”, and which a regular court room is, if it is out rightly accessible and not so accessible on the basis of the “permission” or “consent” of the judge... “It is of essence of justice that not only should it be done, but that it should actually be seen to be done. “Any act of secrecy, however desirable it might seem, detracts from the aura of impartiality, independence, publicity and unqualified respect which enshrouds justice given without fear of favour.” In the same vein, many senior lawyers whose counsel were sought following the issue said it wrong for the judicial officers to ask reporters to leave the court, just as they explained that there was no such thing as “private matter” in a public court. The lawyers advised the reporters to petition the Lagos State Chief Judge, Justice Funmilayo Atilade, so that such actions by judicial officers can be contained. However, the Lagos State Attorney General, Ade Ipaye when contacted, said Justice Opesanwo took the action in order to protect prosecution witness in the case. He said: “It was for witness’ protection. Perhaps she should have explained better. Witness felt threatened and afraid and would have had to leave his residence if made to testify in public view.”

‘Treat corrupt judges like criminals’ •Continued from page 26 of an academic lawyer, but he had world reputation. Then we had Justice Nnamani who was AttorneyGeneral and then became a justice of the Supreme Court. Those are very exceptional cases. Don’t make it a norm. There could be exceptional cases. But it’s not to make those outside to rank pari-pasu with those who are already there. Look for the best. For all I know it’s not just about mere advocacy. I was a practitioner. I got to the Bench and found it was different. I found that I had to look at the cases with detached mind. So it’s not the same.

What is your advice on how to do justice? My advice simply is this: Always remember your judicial oath. Be industrious. There is no need for you to sit late. Your training at the Law School enjoins you to be prompt. If you’re a practitioner and you’re late in going to court, your client one day will go and look for another lawyer. Sit on time; do your best when you’re there; always remember your judicial oath. Minimise your social outings because the work is so demanding. You’re not going to look at the case of one side; you’re going to look at the two cases, and on your own, look at similar cases that had happened in the past that could assist

you in what you’re doing. So really, the time for socialisation is so little. Take it that you’re handling something that is sacred. If the remuneration is not as high as you expected, God is your paymaster, he will pay you. Since I retired 14 years ago, I’ve not looked over my shoulder. God has always provided for me. I’m not stupendously rich, but I’m not poor. If I want to eat, I have money to buy food. I have a car in which I ride. And if I need to satisfy family needs, I’m able to do it within my income. Live within your income. Don’t let people look at you and your status and say ‘Ah, how will they say he’s a judge and he cannot do this?’ If you’re unable to do it, you’re unable to do it. That’s the way I look at it. So, the temptation of having to add a little bit unjustly to what you’re earning may not be there.

What are your expectations of the Muhammadu Buhari administration? The president-elect has put on the toga of a democrat. We only pray he will be able to live his word. The vice-president-elect, I believe is God’s doing. From the little that I know of Prof. Osinbajo, he is not a politician although he served in Lagos State Government as Attorney-General. He served professionally, as a technocrat. I’m not saying that

any man who puts on the toga of a pastor is a pious man. But we could really see some of them who by their calling will bring it to bear on their office. If we’re able to have them to live according to their word, maybe we’re into something good in this country.

How can ‘money-politics’ be stopped? But for goodness sake, let us stop all this money-taking. We need political education in this country. Tell the man who is expecting me to give him N2 that he’s only selling himself. When I give N2 in 20 places, when I’m elected, I’m going to see that I double what I have spent. Many of them don’t see it. We need a great deal of political orientation in this country. If the National Orientation Agency is working hard, what people see in this country would have been different. This last election, God has taken care. God has taken control of it. I think we should really educate ourselves the more. Any politician wanting office and comes to offer you money – some will say: ‘I’ll take his money; after all it’s my money.’ You’re encouraging what you should not encourage; you’ll pay for it. They might give four people money, out of which three will vote for him and he will get there. So let people be told that if you collect money from politicians, you will pay for

•Justice Ogunade (rtd)

it and you’re mortgaging the future of even your own children.

I think someone should tell them that.

THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 28, 2015

NATIONAL BAR At the 19th Commonwealth Lawyers Conference held in Glasgow, Scotland

•From left: Mr. Israel Aye, former President CLA, Boma Ozobia and her predecessor in office, Mohammed Hussein

•From left: Kefas Mogaji, John B. Baiyeshea (SAN), Duro Adeleye (SAN), Solomon Akubo (SAN) Yusuf Ali (SAN) former Chairman NBA Yenagoa, Stanley Ikechukwu and Taye Oniyide.

•From left: Senior Special Assistant to Gov. Liyeel Imoke on Youth Affairs, Dr. Dorn Cklaimz Enamhe, President Commonwealth Lawyers Association (CLA) Mark Stephens and Mark Enamhe

•From left: Justice John Inyan Okoro,(JSC), oustice Mohammed Ibrahim and Chief Judge, Federal High Court, Justice Ibrahim Auta

•From left: 1st Vice-President NBA, Francis Ekwere, Welfare Officer NBA, Mas'd Alabelewe, Lord Gill and former President, Muslim Lawyers Association of Nigeria (MULAN) Tajudeen Oladoja.

•From right: Mr. Chukwuma Ekomaru (SAN), his wife Chinyere with grandson Makuachukwu and Tobechukwu Ekomaru

•From left: Mr. Uduak Ekanem, Justice I. Eradiri, Aniedi Akpabio and Imeh Achibong.

•From left: Yusuf Ali (SAN), Okey Ohagba, Marc Enamhe and 3rd Vice-President NBA Tokunbo Oluwole.

•From left: Afam Okeke, former General Secretary NBA, Ibrahim Eddy Mark, Chairman NBA Lawyers in the Media (LIM), John Austin Unachukwu, Senior Special Asst. to the Speaker House of Reps on legal matters, Steve Emelieze and Paul Kassim

•From left: Mr. Oladipo Tolani, Mrs. Folake Oguneye and Prof. Jumai Audi.

Newspaper of the Year

AN 8-PAGE PULLOUT ON NORTHERN STATES

TUESDAY, APRIL 28, 2015

PAGE 29

INSIDE Hope’s eye surgery deferred

PAGE 30

New deal for council residents

PAGE 31 •One of the IDP camps in Abuja

Tough life for displaced kids

On come the lights

At the camps where about 800,000 displaced children are sheltering across the North, living conditions are as dreadful as the kids’ future is bleak. TONY AKOWE and YUSUFU AMINU IDEGU report

HE children are scattered all over the North, all 800,000 of them, in camps which offer little relief. Food is insufficient. Sleeping places are unspeakably bad. A feeling of neglect hangs over the camps. Six-year-old Mubarak Adamu, one of the children at the Internally Displaced Persons camp at Durumi II in Abuja, reads his ABCs with passion. He is probably looking forward to growing up and becoming a leader someday. Like many other children in the camp and others across the region, Mubarak may never fulfil that dream. Why? He cannot go to a formal school because of Boko Haram insurgents who chased him and others away from their homes in Borno State. He is exposed to harsh living conditions in the uncompleted two-storey building that has served as his home for several months since they moved to Abuja from Bama in Borno State. He is forced to sleep

on a bare hard floor with his mother’s wrapper serving as his bed. The environment he plays in

is not habitable at all with dirt all over the place, and the smell of human waste rife.

Mubarak, like many of the other children at the camp, is lucky, though, to have volunteers who teach him and some others the basics of education. Hafsat Ahmed, Halima Isa and Tanko battle to teach the children even though they don’t have teaching aids. Unfortunately in spite of the harsh living conditions, they are also harassed and intimidated by security men who constantly raid their camps. One of the leaders of the IDPs, Zubairu Mohammed who said that they have been abandoned by government, lamented that their children are exposed to health hazards. He said that there are serious health and other challenges in the camp, adding that their children are mostly affected. According to him, there are about 40 children who urgently need medical attention which they cannot afford. He said security personnel especially the military often come to arrest people, claiming they are crimi•Continued on page 30

•Some of the displaced children in a makeshift classroom

PAGE 33

Enter farewell visitors

PAGE 36

THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 28, 2015

THE NORTH REPORT

Hope’s eye surgery deferred NY improvement on little Hope Dimlong’s left eye since February when we published her story? Well, sort of. The three-year-old was playing with a mate near her house in Plateau State when her partner accidentally struck her in the eye with an object. Since then Hope has been in danger of not only losing the eye; she has also been screaming due to the pain. Her parents said they could not afford a surgery. Luck came her way. Although she was earlier scheduled to be taken to her grand-

•Hope

‘She was playing with a mate near her house in Plateau State when her partner accidentally struck her in the eye with an object. Since then Hope has been in danger of not only losing the eye; she has also been screaming due to the pain’ From Yusufu Aminu Idegu, Jos

mother, Hope managed to join her schoolmates to receive Senator Gyang Pwajok, who was on a campaign tour of Jos North, the district he represents at the Senate. The lawmaker was the governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the April 11election. As Pwajok passed by, he reportedly noticed little Hope among the children and asked what happened to her left eye. Thereafter, the lawmaker arranged

that the girl be taken to hospital for treatment on his account. He had surgery in mind, but medical advice in Jos, the state capital, required that Hope be first treated with medication for some time before the surgery. The eye specialists discovered that Hope’s case had become complicated due to long delay in seeking medical attention. They recommended that before the surgery, the girl be placed on certain drugs for a period of four months before the surgery. So, Hope is receiving treatment pre-

paratory to the surgical procedure. Her mother Christiana, the entire family and the school management are full of gratitude to Senator Pwajok. Mrs Christiana Dimlong said, “The coming of Senator Pwajok is like a miracle to me; he is God-sent. I’ve hardly slept since the accident, I keep praying for help because it is beyond my power. Because of the psychological trauma I was passing through over my daughter’s case, her grandmother was to come and pick her to the village. But God caused a delay so that divine help will come. If not for God, the girl would have been taken away and the Senator would not have met her, but God had arranged it to happen this way for her to get help, so I thank God. I thank Senator Pwajok, I never knew the senator before now; he has touched my life and that of my daughter and the entire family.

Tough life for displaced kids •Continued from page 29 nals. This is traumatising, he said, especially for the women and children at a time when they have lost loved ones to the insurgency. During a recent visit to the camp to present relief materials, an official of the Buhari Support Organisation, Hajia Hanatu Akilu condemned government neglect of the IDPs. Hajia Akilu, who was close to tears due to the deplorable conditions under which the children live, said they decided to donate the food items when they discovered that the children were malnourished. She said, “We have been here before on a medical mission and we discovered that some of the babies were malnourished and we decided to bring this small food. It is not really about the food but for the world to see how these people are suffering. We have them in other settlements across the city. I was at NEMA [National Emergency Management Agency] office and they were saying that they don’t have camps for them because they were not in the state capital. The point is, if we have people like this, it does not matter where they are. The government should provide facilities for them. We should have proper camping for refugees; we should make adequate provision for their children, their health care because we can’t just leave them like this. They have suffered serious trauma, some of them have seen their family members being slain. Some of them have horrible stories of walking long distances and yet, like one of them said, they are not being treated like Nigerians. We just can’t just sit back and watch. We all have to be alive to our responsibilities”. Things are better for displaced children in Kano. The state government has a credible educational intervention programme for them. Known as the Borno Orphans Model Boarding Primary School, Kano State Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso said the school was constructed under the Special Intervention Programme for orphaned children affected by the insurgency in Borno, Yobe and Adamawa states.

‘We have been here before on a medical mission and we discovered that some of the babies were malnourished and we decided to bring this small food. It is not really about the food but for the world to see how these people are suffering. NEMA personnel were saying they didn’t have camps for them because they were not in the state capital. The point is, if we have people like this, it does not matter where they are. The government should provide proper camping for refugees; we should make adequate provisions for their children, their health care because we can’t just leave them like this’ Kwankwaso said, “The Special Intervention Programme is aimed at taking up full responsibilities of 100 children, who are between the ages of five and six whose parents are either dead, displaced or lost as a result of the insurgency”. He assured that the state government will take care of the children’s education, training, upbringing, feeding, clothing, security, health care and accommodation. He also said the government would continue to look after the children until they complete their basic education, the security situation in the states affected by the insurgency improves and when it is safe for them to return home. The governor who is heading for the senate in the in lying government said His attention was drawn to the plight of the children, who have been deprived of parental care and concern as a result of the security challenges in the Northeast by NEMA and other concerned individuals. He urged the federal and state governments and well-meaning individuals and groups to come to the aid of the orphans to make their lives more meaningful.

•Some of the children at a camp in Jos

•Kids at the camp Kwankwaso is not only dealing with the educational needs of the children, but their health requirements also. He said the state Commissioner for Health has been directed to appraise the medical condition of each of the pupils with a view to identifying those that need special medical care for necessary action. There are about 1000 children at the Jos camp. Like their counter-

parts in Kano, life is not as dreadful as it is in several other places but they have the NGOs, not the government, to thank for that. They and their parents worry about their destroyed homes, so even as federal troops exult over recaptured villages, the IDPs remain sullen. Thus, the camps which were supposed to provide temporary shelter have become their permanent homes.

The ideology of Boko Haram is to stop Nigerians from acquiring Western education, and to that extent, the insurgents have almost succeeded in the Northeast. The rampaging insurgents have not only destroyed homes in Borno, Yobe and Adamawa states, but have also wiped out schools. The Jos camps host over 2000 people from 132 families, all of whom are primarily concerned about survival, not schooling for their children. Some of the displaced persons are hosted by a Jos-based non-governmental organisation known as Stefanos Foundation, which is involved in human rights, advocacy, relief and rehabilitation of victims of the continuous violence in the North. Stefanos has been working in the field since 2002; the organization responded to distress calls for help by the victims who have come to trust that the organisation is able to find help for them. Programme Manager of the foundation, Mr. Mark Lipdo said, “From August 2014, many displaced persons began to migrate to Jos in trickles and were accommodated in private homes but there came a time that they became too many to accommodate, hence •Continued on page 31

THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 28, 2015

THE NORTH REPORT Tough life for displaced kids •Continued from page 30 the organisation began a search for a property that can be used to establish an IDP camp. There are more than four IDPs camps in Plateau State.” As at December 2014, Plateau State was hosting 35,000 IDPs. The figure was released by Audu Yohanna, the North Central Zonal Information Officer of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA). A comprehensive assessment of the IDPs carried out by NEMA indicates that the IDPs are camping in different locations across five local government areas of Plateau State. In Wase, Kanam, Shendam and Mikan local government areas, 11,000 IDPs from Taraba State are camping in different locations across the four Local Government Areas. From Adamawa State, 24,000 Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) are camping in different locations across Jos North and Jos South Local Government Areas of the state”. The North Central Zonal Office of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) conducted the needs assessment of the IDPs and sent its report to the Director General of the Agency for release of relief materials to ameliorate the situation of the IDPs. NEMA also confirmed that the IDPs are mostly are women and children who fled the troubled States. But the government relief materials never came, the IDPs rather depends on charitable individuals and other NGOs around the country. Mr. Lipdo said, “The IDPs need food, even if it is once a day, they need good shelter, at least to protect them from the harsh cold weather of Jos. They need clothes

‘The children have suffered serious trauma, some of them have seen their family members being slain. Some of them have horrible stories of walking long distances and yet, like one of them said, they are not being treated like Nigerians. We just can’t just sit back and watch. We all have to be alive to our responsibilities’

•Some women put to birth at the camp to cover their skin to differentiate them from mental health patients. Most importantly, the IDPs are in dire need of medical care.” Another non-governmental organisation known as Tina Bawa Ministry International came to the camp in Jos to offer free medical care to the IDPs particularly little children. There were cases of pneumonia, malaria, hepatitis, but it was also discovered that most of the male children in the camp were not circumcised at infancy. Most of them now between the age of five and 12 had to undergo the procedure at the camp. The coordinator of Tina Bawa Ministry International, Rev Mrs. Tina Bawa, who sponsored the free medical outreach said, “The ministry is a church run by myself and my husband. But like a non-governmental organization, we have program for

the welfare of the less privilege especially children and women. I was moved when I was told of the plight of the women and children in this camp. We have the penchant for helping vulnerable women and children of this nature, and we have done it in so many places across the country. It is a pity that in all crisis situation, women and children suffers the consequences. This is what is going on this camp; these innocent children have been driven out of their homes for no fault of theirs. Now a Good Samaritan assembled the IDPs in camps for government to take over their responsibility. But as you can see, government has turned their attention away from these people.” After spending five months at the camp with no hope of rehabilitation of the IDPs by government, the NGO organised a makeshift school for chil-

dren of the displaced to have some elementary education. Mr. Lipdo, Programme Manager of the foundation said, “I have taken record of at least 650 children in the camp, and since they don’t have hope of going back to their homes so soon, it is good we organise a school for them in the camp, if not the camp will be so boring and life will have no meaning to these children. The NGO has procured some instructional materials like textbooks, exercise books, chalkboard for the takeoff of school lessons for the children. Like in the regular school, there are those in nursery and some in primary. Some teachers have volunteered to render service, some recruited by the NGO to teach the children. Lessons have since commenced in the camp. NEMA was once quoted as saying

that it is accommodating about 6000 children in its internally displaced persons (IDPs) camps in Adamawa State with about 760 of the children coming to the camp on their own, meaning that their parents either died in the attacks on their communities by insurgents or they were abandoned by their parents out of frustration. The agency also claimed that children were the most victims of the attacks. Some managed to escape, while many others were killed. For those who escaped, another hurdle awaited them in the form of daily survival. While children are not the only ones displaced as a result of the attacks, their situation is the most disturbing. There are reports of children who die from physical exertion, hunger and thirst while fleeing insurgents’ attacks. It is no news that children are usually among the worst hit in crisis situations. The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Assistance (UNOCHA) said that of the 300,000 IDPs in Borno, Yobe and Adamawa states, 70 per cent of them are women and children who fled their homes in early 2013.

New deal for council residents in Plateau

ASSA Local Government Area of Plateau State has had an unflattering profile, often seen as one of the least developed in the state. Well, that profile is changing, thanks to its chairman Hon. David Rancha. Communities in the council are picking up: water is running, roads are paved and there is electricity. Village heads and community leaders in the council have described the recent social infrastructural development in their locality as a “breath of fresh air”. The paramount ruler of the local government and President, Bassa Traditional Rulers Council, the Utu Ugo Kiche of Rukuba Chiefdom, His Royal Highness, Ati Adamu Adiuwu said he was pleased that such developments were happening under his reign. Indeed, the people of Bassa local government have begun to witness a new lease of life. All the three districts of the local government are witnessing infrastructural development in various communities. Bassa local government is as old as 38 years, created the same time as the state. But in spite of its age, Bassa remained poorly developed, being one of the least growing in the state. This is in spite of the fact that it is one of the closest local governments to Jos, the state headquarters, as well as being the gateway to neighbouring Kaduna State. It

‘Village heads and community leaders in the council have described the recent social infrastructural development in their locality as a breath of fresh air’ From Yusufu Aminu Idegu, Jos

was believed by the residents that the backwardness of the local government had to do with poor leadership by past administrators, particularly council chairmen. The leader of the Legislative Council, Hon Mrs. Rahila Yahaya Hamza, said, “A number of chairmen have come and gone, yet the local government remained under-developed.” This explains why, when the present administration led by Hon

•A borehole sunk by the Rancha administration Rancha took over the mantle of leadership, many in the local government never gave him a chance. It was believed Hon Racha would only come to warm the office and leave like his predecessors without changing their situation. That was why he was given a cold reception when he assumed office. The cold reception notwithstanding, Hon. Rancha, himself an indigene and fully acquainted with the deplorable condition of things, set to work.

Equipped with good knowledge of the locality as well as their yearnings and aspirations, the new chairman had no problem in outlining the areas of priority. He made a commitment to change the feelings of the people towards governance at the third tier. He spring into action almost immediately, and today, one year after, the story of Bassa local government has changed for good. When the council chairman Hon David Rancha marked his one year

in office at Crest Hotel Jos, he merely rolled out series of unexpected achievements to the surprise of stakeholders of the local government. In the area of rural road construction, the council boss said, “As part of efforts to link rural communities and also enhance commercial activities, the administration has •Continued on page 32

THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 28, 2015

THE NORTH REPORT •Continued from page 31 embarked on the construction and rehabilitation of several roads across the local government area. They include a ten kilometer twin Hills, Renwienku - Katumai road linking Irigwe and Rukuba Chiefdoms. 15.3Km Gurum - Assak - Bomo road linking Pengana and Rukuba Chiefdoms, 11.6Km Assak - Jebbu Bassa road linking Buhit and Assak Wards, 9km Rimi Bakin Kogi road linking the two wards in Pengana Chiefdom. Apart from the rural roads which are capable of turning around the economy of the people, the chairman made efforts to provide electricity to villages that had been in darkness. Hon Racha said, “It is obvious that the resources of the local government is very low and we will not be able to provide electricity to all the communities in need, hence we decided to carry out such social services one in each of the three chiefdoms in the local government. In Irigwe Chiefdom we installed a transformer at Te’egbe to serve the electricity needs people of the areas, in Pengana Chiefdom a transformer was installed at Angwan Gabar in Jengre. And in Rukuba Chiefdom, we installed a transformer at Dutsen Kurra. The administration has also, within the one year in office made concerted efforts to solve the problem of scarcity of water to the people. According to Hon Racha, “A total of nine borehole projects were executed across the local government, each of the three chiefdoms having three. That of

New deal for council residents in Plateau

•Hon Rancha Pengana Chiefdom is located at LEA Primary school Lungu-Katako in Kadamo ward, Jengre market in Jengre ward and the third one is in Mista Ali market. In Rukuba Chiefdom, the three boreholes can be found in Abanizara, Nyakala and Uranden villages. While those of Irigwe Chiefdom are located at GSS Kwall, PHC Te’egbe and Chinye villages respectively. Besides, the administration secured two additional boreholes from the federal ministry of water resources, Abuja. The two boreholes are located at Baginji vegetable market and Miango market in Zobwo ward. In addition, the administration also se-

•A rural road being rehabilitated by the Rancha administration cured two other water project from the federal government water project, the included the abandoned Minago - Kwall Water Dam Project. The water dam project has dual advantage to the people; for irrigation and hydro-electric power generation. The second one is the Ariri earth dam project located at Ariri in Irigwe Chiefdom.

•A section of intending pilgrims during their screening at Kwami Local Government Area, Gombe State

The executive chairman has also showed serious concern in the well being of citizens of the local government with series of health program. For instance, the chairman re-introduced the monthly sanitation exercise in the local government as the chairman took over the supervision of the monthly exercise from house to house. The comatose drug revolv-

ing loan has been fully revived and made functional to service the drug needs of the people. In addition, the local government had collaborated with the state ministry of health for massive distribution of treated mosquito nets to all primary school pupil and pregnant women to reduce the scourge of malaria in the rural communities.

•From left: Former Deputy Governor, Abia State, Hon. Erik Acho Nwakama; Chairman, Jokos Oil, Chief Johhny Okosun; Emir of Borgu, HRH Haliru Dantoro and Chief Matthew Uwakwe during a courtesy visit to the Emir in Niger State

•Voters casting their ballots during the re-run election for Kwami East Assembly constituency in Gombe State at the weekend

Website: http://www.thenationonlineng.com

TUESDAY, APRIL 28, 2015

Page 33

•The lights

EFORE now, traffic lights were quite uncommon in Abuja. Those that existed were malfunctioning. This informed the posting of traffic wardens to some strategic intersections in the city to control traffic. That was then. Currently, most of the moribund traffic lights have been resuscitated as residents woke up recently to notice that the traffic lights were blinking again. Changes residents never thought possible have become reality as politicians and their contractor friends ensure that most of the dilapidated infrastructure in the capital city are revived, at least to prove to the incoming administration that they are capable of making things happen. Though Abuja boasts most modern facilities that other states lack, the city has always had an ugly record of maintenance culture and most contractors take this trend for granted, even as they manipulate the system and

On come the lights From Grace Obike

abandon projects which contracts they have been awarded. The most visible aspect of the low maintenance culture had been in the area of traffic lights. There is prevalence of broken down traffic lights as one drives through the city. Some of them give confusing or conflicting go ahead sign to motorists so much so that they could cause accidents. Some of them come on when they are not supposed to or go off when a particular lane should have right of way. Residents and motorists have been complaining about this situation for so long and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) transport secretariat always claimed that something was being done about it. Recently, there is a wind of

‘The administration recently changed from using the public power supply to powering the traffic light with solar panels. ýWhat is actually happening now is that all the traffic lights in Abuja are being changed to solar panels and we intend to finish soon. The development is a partnership with the Chinese and we have been working on it for a long time. It’s possible that residents are only noticing it now. If you look closely at places where you see traffic lights now, you will also see solar panels mounted on top of it’

change with regard to the functioning of the traffic lights in the FCT. ýCurrently, there is no need posting traffic wardens to man all the intersections of Abuja because all the dilapidated traffic lights have been fixed and new traffic lights have been installed in locations where residents never believed was possible. The traffic situation had always been a nightmare in front of the Wuse Zone 3 Market. Here, people driving towards the market from around the bridge always struggle their way through, espe-

cially when the traffic wardens where not around. However, one morning, residents woke up to behold a new traffic light installed on the road which has drastically reduced the traffic situation. Mr. Jonah Festus plies the route daily. He expressed surprise at the sudden development. He said: “ýI learnt that the contractor that was supposed to install the lights had been paid a long time ago. He did not install them. Now that Buhari is about to be inaugurated, he has decided to do it out of

fear for what might happen to him. “This is a good development. The Abuja traffic light system used to be terrible, but now with all this changes, driving around Abuja is turning into fun.” Another resident Chidi Agu expressed delight at the development in the city. He said: “It is really nice driving around town these days and noticing that the •Continued on page 34

Indigenes appeal to Buhari to end demolition N

ATIVES of Kpaduma communities in Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have called on the incoming administration of Gen. Muhammadu Buhari to end the incessant demolition of communities in the territory. Speaking on behalf of the natives at a news conference on Kpaduma communities’ court case against the Senator Bala Mohammed-led administration, Secretary to Kpaduma communities, Simon Baba-Yerima said with the incoming administration, there is hope for the natives against marginalisation and threat of lives by the present administration.

From Gbenga Omokhunu

According to Baba-Yerima, a situation where ancestral homes of the natives are demolished and they are driven out to look for where to reside, their farmlands are taken from them without adequate compensation, is inhumane to the natives of the FCT and should be discontinued in order for peace to reign in the territory. “So, we pray that the incoming administration of Gen. Buhari will put a stop to the menace and inhumane treatment that is meted on the natives of the FCT by the present administration. We have suffered a lot in the hands of this government. “We believe that as a leader who

has the passion for the masses and not only for the high class in the society, he will listen to our cries and bring soccour to the FCT natives. We are also asking that as when the new administration comes on board, we should be carried along in order for things pertaining to the FCT to go smoothly for the benefit of everybody. “We are also pleading that the new minister of the FCT should be a native of the FCT. He should be chosen from any of the nine ethnic groups in Abuja, so that our rights will be protected. If we have a minister from the FCT, he will understand our problems and fashion out proper means to solve them without threat to the lives of anybody in the territory,” he said.

THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 28, 2015

ABUJA REVIEW

Xenophobic attacks: Indigenes warn S/Africa

EDERAL Capital Territory (FCT) indigenes have threatened to close down South African businesses operating in the nation’s capital as a reprisal for the Xenophobic attacks in that country. The group has given the South African Government 48 hours to apologise to Nigerians and other nationals of African countries for the wanton killings during the xenophobic attack. The group also demanded that concrete steps be taken by the South African authority to tackle the menace. The threat was contained in a communiqué issued at the end of the FCT Residents Association meeting in collaboration with some traditional rulers in the territory, which was jointly signed by the Secretary-General of the Forum, Comrade Yunusa Yusuf and the Eze Igbo of Abuja, His Royal Highness (HRH) Ibe Nwosu and made available to reporters. The natives stressed that Africans must integrate as a continent to battle the xenophobic attack in South Africa. They said: “We pledge to remain our brother’s keeper irrespective of nations, tribes and tongues and we will continue to act as such within the limit of our laws and international conventions. “That there have been relentless attempts by the South African Government to undermine peace in the continent and replace it with a different ideology based on xenophobia. We are confident that the Federal Government of Nigeria will handle the situation in South Africa at the international level. “That we the host community of multi-nationals including South Africa business community, are not happy with the onslaught in South Africa on flimsy and baseless guise of xenophobia. “That, having studied the situation in South Africa vis-a-vis the trauma our brothers are subjected to in the past weeks, we have resolved to give the South African Authority Forty Eight (48) hour’s ultimatum to apologise to Nigerians and other nationals of other African countries for the wanton killings and destruction of property of other nationals resident in South

‘Having studied the situation in South Africa vis-a-vis the trauma our brothers are subjected to in the past weeks, we have resolved to give the South African Authority 48 hours to apologise to Nigerians and other nationals of other African countries for the wanton killings and destruction of property of other nationals resident in South Africa’ Stories from Gbenga Omokhunu

Africa. “That failure to come up with permanent solution within the stipulated 48 hours ultimatum, drastic measures, including attacks on the business interests of South Africa in the Federal Capital Territory will be ruthlessly carried out as a reprisal to the ongoing xenophobia attacks. “That the business interests of South Africa operating in the Federal Capital Territory listed for attack include but not limited to Shoprite, DSTV, Barcelos, Pick ‘n’ Pay, Spar, Steer, MTN, Debonairs, Hungry Lion and Mr. Price, among others” The group regretted that despite that South Africa businesses operating in the FCT have continued to marginalise Abuja natives in area of employment, Abuja natives have allowed them to operate without intimidation from any quarters, stressing that the South African Government should forthwith demonstrate the spirit of brotherhood towards other nationals resident in South Africa or face the consequences.will be ruthlessly carried out as a reprisal to the ongoing xenophobia attacks

•Garbage in the FCT

Residents worry over heaps of garbage

ESIDENTS of Kuje Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have decried the growing heaps of refuse and the inability of the council to evacuate them. The heaps of garbage at the front of the market along KujeGwagwalada Road, General Hospital Junction and various dump grounds may lead to an outbreak of epidemic if urgent steps are not taken. Some residents who spoke with Abuja Review said the huge garbage heaps in their various communities have not been evacuated for a long time. Mrs. Blessing Gata, a resident of Sauka area behind the Gomo Palace said the garbage close to her house has not been evacuated for over a month. “I do not know why the area council authorities have not come to evacuate waste in this area for more than one month now. The huge garbage heap is breeding mosquitoes which make people victims of malaria. Now that the rains will start soon, it will be terrible. I am appealing with the Kuje Area Council to come and evacuate the refuse so that we can live a healthy life,” Gata said. Mr. Andrew David, who resides at Anguwan Gade Extension lamented the growing heaps of garbage which he said poses danger to healthy living. He, however, appealed to the rel-

•Chairman, Committee on Youth, House of Reps, Kamil Akinlabi (left); members, House of Reps, Bukunola Buraimo; Chairman, Committee on Science and Technology, Abiodun Akinlade and a member, Muniru Hakeem after a session at the National Assembly PHOTO: ABAYOMI FAYESE

‘I do not know why the area council authorities have not come to evacuate waste in this area for more than one month now. The huge garbage heap is breeding mosquitoes which make people victims of malaria. Now that the rains will start soon, it will be terrible. I am appealing with the Kuje Area Council to come and evacuate the refuse so that we can live a healthy life’ evant authorities in charge of evacuating waste in the area to take the necessary step in ensuring sanity in the area. “It has been a while I saw people evacuating waste in this area. We do not actually know what is happening. We are appealing to the authorities to come and evacuate the waste because it is malodorous. Reacting, the Kuje Head of Environmental Sanitation Department, Mr. Abdulkarim Abdulrazaq, said the waste evacuation exercise was no longer handled by area council, saying it is currently handled by the Satellite Town Development Authorities (STDA) and monitored by the

department. He, however, called on residents of the area to stop the improper dumping of garbage by the road side. “The heap of garbage in some areas in the council results from improper disposal of refuse by some residents. “Despite the departments’ effort on evacuation and keeping the environment clean, some people have failed to comply with sanitation rules and regulations. “The council is also trying its best in terms of creating awareness on proper waste disposal but some residents have refused to do the right thing,” he said.

On come the lights •Continued from page 33 traffic lights now work. It is really commendable and I’m not bothered about how they waited until this time to do it. The important thing is that they have done something nice that is worth commending.” The Public Relations Officer (PRO) FCT Transport Secretariat, Mr. Ifeanyi Ughamadu, in a telephone chat with Abuja Review denied that the change was meant to please the incoming Buhari administration. “The administration recently changed from using the public power supply to powering the traffic light with solar panels. ýWhat is actually happening now is that all the traffic lights in Abuja are being changed to solar panels and we intend to finish soon. The development is a partnership with the Chinese and we have been working on it for a long time. It’s possible that residents are only noticing it now. If you look closely at places where you see traffic lights now, you will also see solar panels mounted on top of it. “We are not only repairing the old ones and changing them into the new solar-powered lights but we intend to extend the installation of traffic lights to Kubwa and Gwarimpaý. We intend to have 24-

hour coverage now, unlike before where the traffic lights go off anytime that there is power outage. We realised that the solar powered light is much more reliable. “The decision on this was taken a long time ago and we began installing it a while back. Honestly, it does not have anything to do with the change of government. The changes had been in the pipeline for a long time and we even began the installations since last year. “FCT residents should expect more of ýconstant traffic lights working because all traffic lights would be streamlined towards solar which the country has in abundance. We will install and repair over 70 traffic light junctions in town and I do not know the exact number that will be installed in Gwarimpa and Kubwa but that will be happening very soon,” he said. Whether the changes are propelled by the fear of the new administration or according to the explanations of the PRO, it is a good development. The important thing still remains that the traffic light is making life of residents less stressful as there is free flow of traffic. Installation of traffic lights in Gwarimpa and Kubwa will also be great. Residents are optimistic that most malfunction facilities in the FCT will also be rehabilitated to ease life of the residents.

THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 28, 2015

ABUJA REVIEW

FCT inaugurates children’s home T

HE Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Administration has inaugurated a children’s home cum transit camp for orphans, motherless babies and abandoned babies in Gwako community in Gwagwalada Area Council, Abuja. The administration said the home which is equipped with skills acquisition facilities, is capable of transforming the lives of the teeming youths and vulnerable children who roam the streets of Abuja as beggars or destitute. Minister of State for the FCT, Olajumoke Akinjide who inaugurated the homeý said FCT residents are yet to see the end of the current administration because it still has more to give to Nigerians. She added that even as the new government takes power, it should continue from where the present administration stopped and not allow all the laudable projects of the outgoing government to waste. She said: “The vision for a facility that will cater for the welfare of this vulnerable segment of our population, mainly orphans, motherless and abandoned babies, is in keeping with the transformation agenda of the outgoing administration. “The inauguration of this project therefore underscores the many positive projects which have been executed by this administration as it draws the curtain over an eventful tenure. “The home being inaugurated today is, indeed, only one of such projects and is designed to pass on the torch of positive legacy to the FCT residents and the incoming administration. “Governance is continuous. The FCTA remains grateful for your sacrifices and urges you to remain resolute and give the same loyalty and support to the incoming administration” Akinjide thanked residents for their support and partnership as they work together to improve the welfare of residents and to advance the fortunes of the territory; saying that the facility aims at alleviating the plight of children who, for no fault of theirs, found themselves on the unfortunate segment of our society. “It will serve as an educational as well as a skill acquisition centre for the home mates while benefiting the host community. We are certainly hopeful that it will give these children a solid start in life. “The quality of care given to our children irrespective of the circumstances of their birth, to a large extent, determines the value of their adulthood and by extension will impact on the future of our nation. “It is therefore for this reason that the home has been structured to provide an enabling environment for these vulnerable children to develop self-reliance and self-confidence and to be mentally adjusted to fit into the larger society in order to compete favourably with their peers in the future.” She, therefore, urged managers of the facility to ensure that the purpose of the home is fully realised.

From Grace Obike

In her speech, Special Guest of Honour and Minister of Women Affairs, Hajia Zainab Maina, commended the FCTA for the “dynamic project” just as she called on wellmeaning Nigerians to support the project. She added that in other climes, citizens do not wait for government to provide everything for them. In her welcome address, Secretary, Social Development Secretariat, Mrs. Blessing Onuh, said the ceremony marked the completion of a project that is capable of transforming the lives of teeming youths and vulnerable children who roam the streets of the FCT as destitute and beggars. “This centre is meant to be a transit camp to cater for their immediate needs. The administration thought it wise to provide them with skills while they wait to be re-united with their families,” she said. She noted that it was at some point like a burden for this administration due to large influx of internally displaced persons (IDPs) into the FCT but “we thank God for a successful completion of this project. We hope that we will raise our future entrepreneurs as we have provided various training facilities to meet up with the growing demand of global trend.” The inauguration, which was attended by Hajia Maina, Olajimoke and other government officials, was the brainchild of the Social Development Secretariat and funded by the FCT Administration. The project comprises six classrooms that can take at least 50 people each for theoretical learning; an administrative block, workshops in various skills ranging from fashion designing and tailoring, shoe making and design, hairdressing and salon technique, welding and wrought iron design and catering and confectionaries; 200-capacity multi-purpose hall and recreational facilities such as synthetic five aside football pitch and a volley ball court and hostel facilities that can accommodate about 1, 000 people. The hall, according to Onuh, can be utilised for several events ranging from business, workshops, conventions and reception, among others through which the centre can be self-sustained; as they intend to maintain it through internally-generated revenue. She called on individuals and organisations to partner with the Social Development Secretariat in achieving this objective. She, however, warned youths who roam the streets of the FCT that begging is prohibited in FCT. Onuh urged them to take advantage of the opportunity provided by government to improve their well-being. She also urged FCT residents not to encourage begging by giving alms to beggars on the street. “They should instead make such contributions to existing aid programmes carried out by our churches, mosques and the centre whenever they wish to support the welfare of these vulnerable groups,” she said.

‘The inauguration of this project therefore underscores the many positive projects which have been executed by this administration as it draws the curtain over an eventful tenure. The home being inaugurated today is, indeed, only one of such projects and is designed to pass on the torch of positive legacy to the FCT residents and the incoming administration… Governance is continuous. The FCTA remains grateful for your sacrifices and urges you to remain resolute and give the same loyalty and support to the incoming administration’

•From left: Minister of State for FCT, Olajumoke Akinjide; Minister of State for Agriculture and Natural Resources, Asabe Asmau Ahmed and Minister of Water Resources, Sarah Ochekpe during the Federal Executive Council Meeting at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.

•From left: Former governor of Bayelsa State, Chief Timipire Sylva; Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator Anyim Pius Anyim and Mrs Ibukun Odusote during the Presidential Inauguration Planning Committee meeting at the Banquet Hall Presidential Villa in Abuja. PHOTOS: AKIN OLADOKUN

•Corps Marshal, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Boboye Oyeyemi (middle); Deputy Corps Marshal, Administration, Chidi Nwachukwu (left) and Deputy Corps Marshal, Operations, Adei Abu at the strategic session with 313 Commanding Officers in Abuja PHOTO: ABAYOMI FAYESE

‘Give us good feeder roads’

ESIDENTS of Dutse Sokale in Bwari Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have appealed to the chairman of the council, Hon. Peter Yohanna to construct feeder roads in the community, in order to alleviate their suffering. Mr. Simon Chukwu, one of the residents who spoke with our reporter lamented that state of the roads in the community is unbearable, as most of the residents suffered immeasurably. According to Chukwu, residents of the community have made countless appeals to the leadership of the council to provide infrastructural development for the people in the community, but not much has been done in that regard, apart from the improved power supply. “We really need good feeder roads in this community, because, without it, life is unbearable. Car owners in this community repair their cars on weekly basis because of the bad roads and they have no choice, since they

From Gbenga Omokhunu

live in the community. “Whenever it rains, the entire community will be in mess, to the extent that you will not be able to identify where the road is or where the pits which gully erosion has constructed are. Now that the rain is about to start, we are afraid because of the challenges we will experience,” he said. Isah Ishiaku, a motorcycle operator in Dutse Sokale explained that due to the deplorable state of the roads in the community, most of them get scared to ply the roads when it rains, because they often fall off from their bikes with passengers. “The truth is that the best thing the chairman, Hon. Peter Yohanna can do for us now is for him to give us good roads in this community. If the roads are constructed, we will have peace of mind to carry our passengers to their destinations without fear of falling into the mud,” he said.

THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 28, 2015

ABUJA REVIEW

ITH about a month to the handover date, President Goodluck Jonathan has started to receive dignitaries on a thank-you and farewell visits from beyond the national borders. One of the first visitors was President Alassane Ouattara of Cote d’Ivoire who was at the Presidential Villa on Monday last week to thank him for all the support he has given him and his country in the past five years. Briefing journalists after the closed-door meeting, Ouattara, who was recounting Jonathan’s role that ensured Ouattara took over from Laurent Gbagbo who was hanging onto power in 2010 in Cote d’Ivoire, became a bit emotional as the two leaders managed to fight back tears during the session. He was particularly grateful that Jonathan, who was Nigeria’s Acting President five years ago could mobilise other West African leaders to oust Laurent Gbagbo, who had refused to relinquish power after losing the presidential election. Besides commending Jonathan for shunning replay of the Gbagbo experience in Nigeria, he was happy that bloodshed was averted in the country as Jonathan peacefully conceded defeat to Gen. Muhammadu Buhari. Gbagbo’s refusal to concede defeat to him after the presidential election, he said, resulted in a four-month civil war in which over 3, 000 people lost their lives. He said: “So, I wanted to tell you our appreciation over the leadership we have received from you during these years. You know that about five years ago, Cote d’Ivoire had elections and I won the election and the former president decided not to leave office. This brought the civil war and 3,000 people were killed.” “We were put in a hotel for protection by the United Nations for four and a half months. We were there without food because the hotel was guarded by the president’s men. It was only after four and a half months of imprisonment in that hotel that finally we were able to leave the hotel; after the former president quit and finally left office for me.” “I am saying this to stress that what happened in Nigeria is a lesson to all of us. Please, accept my admiration. I think that avoiding violence, avoiding civil war when

Enter farewell visitors we have elections in Africa should be our utmost objective,” he said. Continuing, he said: “People are more important than power and Mr. President, my good friend, I am not surprised about what you did and I wanted to congratulate you, congratulate the Nigerian people and congratulate the Presidentelect. “My brother, you have shown support to me during the difficult years I went through, you have shown friendship to me all these years. So, I want to tell you thank you.” he added. The following day, Tuesday, the Ghanaian President, John Mahama, who is also the chairman of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) also, visited President Jonathan to commend him on behalf of ECOWAS for his statesmanship in conceding defeat to Gen. Muhammadu Buhari. He said: “I also took the opportunity to commend him for the statesmanship that was displayed after the election. We all knew that he congratulated the president-elect,

as the D-day approaches.

From the Villa

And Jonathan stings

By Augustine Ehikioya Gen. Buhari after the election realities and he conceded. I feel that was a very great sign of maturity and has earned the respect of all Nigerians and the respect of the international community for all what he did. “We expect a smooth transition and possibly the role that Nigeria plays in the ECOWAS being the biggest economy not only in our sub-region but also in the whole continent. “Of course there is a special rela-

tionship that exists between Nigeria and Ghana too and so, in my second heart as the President of Ghana, I wish to congratulate our brothers and sisters in Nigeria on what has been a very good election,” he said. To ensure continued support from Nigeria after May 29, these leaders did not fail to seek audience with the President-elect, Gen. Buhari, during their visits. Jonathan and Buhari, no doubt, will continue to receive such visits

Igbo seek scrapping of land-swap policy

NVESTORS in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have called on the incoming administration of Gen. Muhammadu Buhari to scrap the land swap policy which was introduced by the FCT Minister, Senator Bala Mohommed, saying that the policy is against the interest of the natives and residents of the territory. The Chairman of Zaudan Pazeri Property Owners’ Association, Elder Friday Ugoala, who spoke on behalf of residents of the FCT at a news conference in Abuja, said if the land swap is allowed to continue, the rate of accommodation or services that would arise from it will be beyond the reach of the common Nigerian who resides in the capital city. According to Ugoala, if the land swap policy is scrapped, the average Nigerian will have hope to acquire land and build it at his own pace. He debunked the notion that

•From left: Justice Court of

Appeal, Abuja Division, Justice Abdulkadir Jega, Justice Court of Appeal, Enugu Division, Justice Amiru Sanusi and President Court of Appeal, Justice Zainab Adamu Bulkachuwa during the Retreat for Chairmen of the Election Petition Tribunal 2015 at the FCT Ceremonial Court Room in Abuja.

From Gbenga Omokhunu

the FCT is not meant for everybody, adding that they will have the hope of having a home to stay in the FCT. “Also, the land swap policy is against the natives of the FCT, because, many of them would be sent out of their ancestral communities for strangers to come and occupy, all in the name of land swap. The truth is that the greatest humiliation you can give to a man is to send him out of his ancestral home, where his ancestors were buried. This is not right. “If the land swap policy is not scrapped, I do not know how many of the natives can afford the price the estate developers would place their houses when constructed, because most of them would be out to make money with their structures, without considering if the common man could afford it or not. The

Barely 10 minutes after bidding the Ghanaian President, John Mahama, farewell from the Presidential Villa, Abuja on Tuesday the defeat of President Goodluck Jonathan at the March 28 Presidential elections recorded its first casualty. The President, through his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Dr. Reuben Abati, announced the sack of the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Suleiman Abba from office. The tone of the statement showed that the Presidency was really angry with the IGP as similar statements normally avoid the use of the word ‘sack’. Although no reason was given in the statement for the sack, his exit was said not to be unconnected with the role he was said to have played during the 2015 general elections. It is not clear whether the President, in the coming days, will also use his sledge hammer on politicians in his party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who were believed to have played roles that had adversely affected his re-election bid.

PHOTO: AKIN OLADOKUN

policy is a conduit for corruption, because it encourages corruption and injustice. “There are many cases where individuals have been awarded plots of land, just for the fact that their files are being processed in the FCDA office. The next thing is that they jump

upon allocation and they hand it over, saying that it has been swapped. There is capital vote approved for the FCT Administration, but the logic they gave for the land swap is that it is saving the government the cost of infrastructure, whereas there is budget for infrastructure.

“Within this period of land swap, what new places and special things have been done with the fund that is supposed to have been saved as a result of land swap? We have not noticed tangible achievement in terms of saving. So the land swap is encouraging corruption,” he said.

THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 28, 2015

LAW & SOCIETY Being text of a paper presented by former NBA President, Mr. Joseph Bodunrin Daudu (SAN) at the just concluded 19th edition of Commonwealth Lawyers Conference held at the Scottish Events and Conference Centre, Glasgow, UK.

How to practice in multi-jurisdictions Introduction CCORDING to the American Bar Association’s Report of the Commission of Multijurisdictional Practice, multijurisdictional practice is defined as “the legal work of a lawyer in a jurisdiction in which the lawyer is not admitted to practice law. Mobility of lawyers on the other hand refers to the ability of legal practitioners trained and certified to practice law in one jurisdiction to practice in other jurisdictions without running afoul of the regulatory provisions in those other jurisdictions. This phenomenon is brought about by the fact that the world has shrunk since the advent of globalization. The combination of cheap and safe air travel and the internet have made places which seemed so far away half a century ago to be accessible to trans-national businesses. The implication is that these conglomerates prefer to approach business from the stand of using legal services that they are accustomed to and readily available. This preference usually excludes the use of counsel practicing in the place where the business is to be conducted. The importation of legal services by the foreign business outfit into a country where its lawyers are not licensed to practice brings about its complications and conflicts in (1) the authority of nation-states to regulate multi-jurisdictional practice, (2) the law to be applied to regulate the conduct of such counsel in the event of a breach of the rules of ethics and (3) the consequences of unregulated multi-jurisdictional legal practice. This discourse will consider the basis/origin and implications of multi jurisdictional law practice from the African stand-point. How has cross-border legal services fared under the dispensation of globalization and what is the response of African nations especially the emerging economic power blocs to the practice by foreign lawyers in their own territories especially as viewed from the stand point of competition with local counsel. It is hoped to conclude with suggestions and or recommendations for the removal of conflicts and frictions going forward. The writer naturally, expresses these views from the prism of Nigerian law. However, a comparative approach from the position of other African nations will be attempted from time to time in the course of the paper.

Globalisation and cross-border legal practiceNigerian perspective The view was once widely held in Nigeria that globalization is a journey to utopia1, a lotus-eater kind of world far away from reality. However, this is not the view of the major players who control the economic resources of the world. That this situation is taken seriously by the people who control the resources of the world has been succinctly captured by Guobadia2 in his paper Globalization of Legal Services- What should Nigeria do? Thus; - ‘A globalised economy could be defined as one in which neither distance or national borders impede economic transactions. This would be a world where the costs of transport and communication would be zero and the barriers created by differing national jurisdictions had vanished. The driving force of trade

liberalisation is the World Trade Organisation, a creature of the 1994 Uruguay Round Trade negotiations. The WTO works on a single undertaking principle so that once a country signs and takes up membership it becomes a party to all related agreements including those reached before it joined. In other words, it is very unlike GATT, where a nation can pick and choose which agreements it intends to be bound by’. The general agreement on trade in service One of the achievements of the Uruguay negotiations is the General Agreement on Trade in Services (GATS), which came into force in January 1995. The GATS, a multi-lateral treaty based agreement was inspired by essentially the same objectives as its counterpart in merchandise trade, the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) The only major distinction was that GATS dealt with services as opposed to trade and merchandise. Legal Services comes within the purview of GATS. One important characteristic of GATS is that countries that appended their signatures to it had committed themselves to periodic negotiations to progressively eliminate barriers to international trade in services without requiring further approval from other member states as evidenced in Article 19 of the agreement which compels members to enter in negotiation of specific commitments “directed to the reduction or elimination of the adverse effects on trade in services of measures as a means of providing effective market access. However this process shall only take place with a view to promoting the interests of all participants on a mutually advantageous basis and to securing an overall balance of rights and obligations. (Please note the underlined passage as this defines the scope of liberalisation of legal services.) Essentially the agreement comprises of legally binding rules set for trade in all commercial services, the intention being to spur economic growth by removing barriers limiting trade in services and enabling countries to attract foreign investment by opening highly regulated services to international competition. GATS therefore takes into consideration (i) The National Policy Objectives of each member and (ii) their respective levels of Development. It is therefore obvious that the requirements of liberalisation are not as frightful as they are made out. To the uninitiated, the impression given is that developing countries must open their markets in trade and services including legal services to the unrestricted participation of the developed world. It cannot be so for the following reasons. Firstly, while it has been agreed that no discriminatory measures will be meted out to service suppliers of member states in favour of domestic suppliers, it is also agreed that liberalisation will be gradual based on the national policy objectives of each member and the respective levels of development. These factors, it is submitted are complex platforms upon which to base any such agreements on. It is therefore more of phantom which cannot in practical terms negatively affect the local legal service market of any country. In my considered opinion, flowing

•Daudu (SAN) left and Gregory Ross at the Conference

from the foregoing that the market access in legal services as conceptualised by GATS was not expected to be universal or overwhelming in all spheres of legal services. It is clear that the interest of the WTO is to have legal services of such quality and delivery commensurate to and in tandem with the speed and efficiency with which modern international/cross border financial transactions are concluded. There are so many areas of local national economies whereby legal services have inexorably acquired international flavour and there appears to be nothing that domestic legal practitioners or systems can do about it. They include but are not limited to (i) Oil and Gas, (ii) Aviation, (iii) Shipping, (iv) communications, (v) Internationally financed construction, (vi) equipment leasing, (viii) Mining and mineral exploration, (ix) Privatisation by way of mergers, acquisition etc. It must be noted at this stage that in the past, the excuse for bringing foreign counsel was that local counsel were not equipped technically to deal with the demands of clients in those sectors. But this pretext has waned considerably as (taking Nigeria for example) local counsel have gone in droves to acquire requisite expertise and experience in the aforeenumerated areas. However such recourse to the excuse of lack of local expertise was unnecessary in view of the express provisions of the GATS. Summary of the criteria for legal practice in selected african countries i.e Nigeria, south Africa East African states and Ghana Nigeria Item 49 of the exclusive legislative list in Part 1 of the 2nd Schedule to the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria lists ‘Professional occupations as may be designated by the National Assembly’. This means that only the National Assembly as opposed to the legislative house of the 36 States of the Federation can legislate on all issues pertaining to the practice of law in Nigeria as a profession. The Legal Practitioners Act3 prescribes the qualification of a person qualified to practice law in Nigeria4 and it includes (a) persons whose names are on the Roll of legal practitioners, (b) persons who apply to the Chief Justice of Nigeria and are entitled to practice as advocates from countries where the legal system is similar to to that of Nigeria and the CJN is of the opinion that it is expedient for that person to practice as a Barrister for the purpose of the proceedings described in the application. The LPA also sets out the disciplinary regime/procedure for erring members of the profession. It is to be noted at this point in time that the LPDC can only discipline lawyers who have been called to the Nigerian Bar. This raises the question of how foreign counsel whose professional conduct impact badly on the ethics of the profession while working in Nigeria can or should be disciplined. This aspect will be dealt with in due course. Indeed, there is no move to instant liberalisation of legal services; that is not the concept in GATS. Article 19, which calls for a progressive move towards

liberalisation is therefore relevant, let individual nations readiness be reviewed as required by the treaty every 5 years and at the next Round Nigerian stakeholders such as the NBA and its specialised sections must be ready with facts and figures to justify the state of readiness of Nigeria to liberalise and whether it is indeed feasible owing to the conduct of our partners so to do. The NBA position on multi-jurisdictional practice as last reviewed in the year 2012 is therefore clear from the foregoing. That in the long run liberalisation of legal services is foreseeable but not imminent. Nigeria should however not include legal services in its schedule until bilateral and multilateral issues of market access and discriminatory practices are resolved. Furthermore, there is a need for the Governments of Nigeria (Federal and States) to rapidly industrialise. The absence of viable industries in the required number denies Nigerian lawyers of the necessary enabling platform to practice modern international commercial practice. No foreign counsel is expected to involve him or herself in land, chieftaincy, election and other local indigenous legal disputes of customary status. Any Initiative that will promote local content in the rendering of legal services is being encouraged and supported. However, this is not to justify tardiness in our preparations to join the five African nations that have opened their doors to foreign legal counsel. South Africa No doubt the legal services sector has experienced several changes as a consequence of the growth in international trade. All over the world lawyers are required to provide services and advice to their clients who do business across borders. Businesses and organizations involved in international transactions need reliable, up to date and integrated services covering all aspects of such transactions. The Legal Profession in South Africa is divided into Advocates and Attorneys and they are regulated by the General Council of the Bar of South Africa and the Law Society of South Africa respectively. No dual practice is allowed. Legal practitioners are regulated by different laws and each has its own set of admission requirements. In 1995, South Africa made legally binding commitments to liberalize legal services under the WTO General Agreement on Trade in Services. The commitments allow, foreign legal practitioners to establish, a commercial presence in and transfer personnel, including legal practitioners, to South Africa. South Africa made specific commitments on the establishment of a commercial presence (mode 3) and the temporary transfer of personnel (mode 4) to South Africa. The commitments are limited to the supply of legal advisory services in foreign international and domestic law and legal representation services in domestic law by a locally established entity. Such an entity must be owned or controlled by natural or legal persons of any other WTO member state.5 Please note that to practice local law, a foreign lawyer must requalify as a South African attorney. Unless a person is from a designated country (at present Swaziland, Namibia, Lesotho and the former TBVC states) a person must complete a South African LLB degree and comply with the other requirements with regard to articles or community service, practical legal training and the admission examination. A person who intends to be admitted in the Republic of South Africa, can submit his/her degree to a South African university for an indication of whether any credit by such university would be given with regard to any part of the foreign law degree. Further requirements with regard to admission are provided in the Attorneys Act, 1979 as amended6. A person must be a South African citizen or permanent resident and be otherwise fit and proper in the opinion of the court to be admitted as an attorney. The current qualification requirements for the admission and enrolment of attorneys and advocates present an insurmountable barrier to foreign legal practitioners wanting to practice in South Africa. •To be continued next week

THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 28, 2015

LAW & SOCIETY

Ayangburen’s stool: court dismisses joinders’ application

USTICE Akintunde Savage of a Lagos High Court, sitting in Ikorodu, has dismissed an application filed by two members of the Odusago royal family of the Lasunwon Ruling house seeking to be joined as 13th and 14th respondents in the suit challenging the adoption of the Odofin of Ikorodu, Chief Kabiru Shotobi as the oba-elect by the king makers. Justice Savage, in his ruling last week, dismissed the application for lacking in merit. Jamiu Olusola Alejo and Durojaiye Ekundayo Alejo, through their lawyer, Suleiman Talabi, had on behalf of Odusago branch of the Lasunwon Ruling House of Ikorodu, sought to be joined as defendants in the suit. Those seeking to be joined based their reasons on three main issues in their 17-point affidavit in support of the motion on notice filed before the court. They averred that it was necessary that they were joined in the suit as defendants. As descendants of Lasunwon Ruling House, also entitled to present candidates for the selection and nomination for the throne of Ayangburen of Ikorodu, the decision of the court, according to them, may adversely affect their claim to the stool should they be excluded from the present suit. They said it was in view of the aforementioned facts and in the interest of the proper and holistic determination of all issues before the court, that they sought to be joined as defendants. They averred further that it was imperative that all interested parties be included in this suit for the court to have a proper appraisal of

By Adebisi Onanuga

the consent judgment delivered by Justice Habeeb Abiru, now of the Court of Appeal, in the earlier suit number IKD/57/2007. The judge noted that while moving the application, counsel to the joinders , Sulaiman Talabi, had submitted before the court that the members of the Odusago royal family were not interested in the earlier suit, which centered on the position of Odofin of Ikorodu, but was interested in the present suit because the issue at stake was the Ayangburen stool. They also submitted that it becomes necessary for them to join for easy resolution, and to save the time of the court by avoiding multiple suits. Justice Savage also noted the opposition of counsel to the applicants, John Osighala and that of the second respondent, Kazeem Adenabjo to the joinders application. He noted that Osighala in a nineparagraph counter affidavit had submitted that the parties seeking to be joined are not parties in the previous suit numbered KD/57/2007 and that the matter in the new suit can be resolved without them. He also noted that in his counter affidavit, Adebanjo denied the existence of Odusago royal family of Lasunwon Ruling House of Ikorodu and the fact that those seeking to be joined were not parties to the earlier suit, the enforcement of the consent judgment of which they are seeking in court now. Adebanjo, the judge said, submitted that the alleged Odusago royal family has never occupied the stool of Ayangburen and that he cited rel-

evant laws and decided cases of the Supreme Court of Nigeria to support his submission on why the application should be rejected and dismissed. The judge also noted that counsels to other respondents in the suit, including Gbenga Hassan for first and third respondents, O. Fabunmi for fourth to seventh respondents and S. A. Quadri for 11th and 12th respondents did not oppose the application nor file any counter affidavit. On Justice Savage request, Chief Babatunde Olusola Benson (SAN), who is an “amicus curiae” (friend of the court) and a prominent son of the soil, reported to the court that several meetings held with various counsels after the court’s sitting of March 18, were deadlocked as counsels refused to shift positions. Justice Savage, while ruling on the matter, held those seeking to be joinders were not parties in the previous suit and that they ought to have shown interest before the consent judgement delivered by Justice Abiru(now Justice of the Court of Appeal) in 2007 or at the Court of Appeal as an intervener. He also noted that the consent judgment was never appealed at the appellate level. He also held that parties cannot join a suit in which judgment has been delivered and which enforcement has become the subject of another suit. At this stage, Osighala asked for cost in the sum of N150,000 explaining that the joinders application had made them incurred addition cost as they had to file counter affidavit and serve 13 respondents.

Adebanjo aligned with the request of Osighala, pointing out that the application took them back despite the fact that the court had taken a decision to ensure speedy hearing in the matter. Adebanjo submiited further that the application seeking to be joined was filed “malafides” (in bad faith), adding: “our time was wasted, efforts wasted and three adjournments wasted on the application.” But Talabi argued that any application in a suit must be judicially determined otherwise “people would be scared of bringing application before the court”. Talabi declined to concede to costs, but prayed that if the court must award costs, it should not be more than N10,000 and urged the court to use its discretion on the matter. Justice Savage said the two counsels were right to ask for cost and awarded N30,000 each for Osighala and Adebanjo. He said other counsels did not merit costs as they filed no counter affidavit. Just as Osighala asked the court for a date to move the main application, which was brought by an originating summon, counsel to the state government (11th and 12th respondents), Quadri, told the court that he wanted to withdraw his earlier application dated February 18, and to substitute it with another dated March 16. Counsels to the third respondent, Hassan, and those of the fourth to the seventh respondents, Fabunmi, did not raise any objection to the development. But Osighala, counsel to the applicants, opposed the substitution of the application by the government counsel, Quadri, saying: “counsel is

attempting to withdraw through the back door, issues already raised in our argument already made and submitted before the court. “The law does not make provision for substitution. What the law provides for is amendment under Order 24 Rule 2. Secondly, it is “over reaching” wherein by rules and procedures, arguments had commenced and closed, a party is extort from proferring new arguments to overreach previous issues already canvassed. “If we keep doing this, there would be no end to litigation because if allowed, I would have to go and file an amendment.” He cited various cases decided by the Supreme Court of Nigeria to buttress his submission. Adebanjo also said the attempt by counsel to the government to have previous process withdrawn was surprising. He submitted that if allowed, the court would have to call for counter applications fron other counsels in the matter. Asked for their views on the new development espoused by government counsel, Hassan, counsel to the first and third respondent, said he was indifferent and left the matter to the discretion of the court. Fabunmi, counsel to the fourth to the seventh respondents, said no harm would be done by the substitution of the application the government wanted to make. “Claimants counsel has the opportunity to respond again,”he said. Quadri also said arguments had not really commenced on the matter as they were yet to commence hearing of the originating summon. He said the only right counsel to the applicants have is that of reply having been served the application.

•From left: Dr Abiola Sanni; Mr. Ashimizo Afadameh; Prof. Peter Fogam; Prof. Jumoke Oduwole; Mr. Wahab Shittu and Dr. Dayo Ayodele at a press conference on the 3rd African International Economic Law Network Biennial Conference held at the Faculty of Law conference room, University of Lagos (UNILAG), Akoka, Lagos.

Homeowners sue developer for N100m over ‘arbitrary charges’

OME owners in Pearl Gar den Estate, at Sangotedo Vil lage in Eti-Osa Local Government Area of Lagos State have filed a N100 million class action suit against a property developer, Oyetubo Jokotade Estate Resource Limited, over alleged incessant harassment and imposition of arbitrary charges. The claimants in the suit included Messrs Francis Adesuyi, Felix Obiakor, Martin Ajayi-Obe and Peter Afenotan. They filed the N100 million suit on behalf of themselves and all interested homeowners within the Pearl Garden Estate. The claimants filed the suit before a Lagos State High Court sitting in Epe, headed by Justice Abisoye Bashua. Joined as second defendant is CMB Building Maintenance and

By Adebisi Onanuga

Investment Company Limited, in charge of providing estate management services to the claimants. In the suit, the claimants are asking the court for a declaration that the incessant harassment, restriction of movement and the imposition of arbitrary charges on them by the defendants as illegal and unlawful. They also asked the court to declare that the refusal of the second defendant to allow them install borehole in their homes as illegal and unlawful. They had prayed the court for “an order of perpetual injunction restraining the defendants, jointly and severally, their agent, privies and cronies from further demanding or collecting reticulation charges in the sum of N650,000 or any other

sums from the claimants contrary to the express terms of the Deeds of Assignment and the Sale and Management Agreement. “A Mandatory Order directing the second respondent to refund to the claimants and other residents all monies collected forcefully as part or full payments of the unlawful imposition of the reticulation charges and the unilateral estate charges immediately to the respective claimants and other homeowners.” They also asked for an order restraining the defendants from further harassing them and also the sum of N100 million as general damages for the barricade, destruction of property and unlawful denial of the claimants access to the estate on March 13,2013. At the hearing last Thursday, counsel to the respondents, Mr R.A. Aladesanmi, said they had filed an

application asking the court to stay proceedings on the suit, pending a referral from arbitration proceedings. Aladesanmi argued that all purchases of the land entered into an arbitration agreement contained in their individual sale and management agreement, adding that the appropriate place to resolve the dispute was arbitration. But counsel to the claimants, Mr Adeyinka Adeyemi, objected to the application, arguing that some of the parties in the suit did not sign the arbitration clause. Adeyemi argued that it was ironic that the same defendants asking for arbitration had filed notices of appeal at the Court of Appeal against a previous order of the court, which restrained them from restricting the claimants from the estate. Adeyemi further submitted that

the said agreement was entered between some of the claimants and the first respondent, adding that the second defendant (BCM) was not a party to the agreement. “As at now, there is no appointed body to even conduct the arbitration. They have not taken any step to show that arbitration has commenced. The arbitration is inexistent so the court cannot stay proceedings. “The claimants in view of this submitted that ”It will be gross injustice for the matter to be referred to arbitration that is nonexistent and that which has not even commenced as papers are yet to be filed to that effect,”he said. After taking the submissions of the parties, Justice Bashua adjourned the matter till May 21, for ruling.

THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 28, 2015

LEGAL OPINION

Sri Lankan Bar leader wins award

ORMER President of Sri Lankan Bar Association (SBA) Upul Jayasuriya has been declared winner of the Second Commonwealth Law Conference Rule of Law Award. He was the President of Sri Lankan Bar from 2013 to March 31, 2015. The award was presented to him at the Commonwealth Lawyers Association (CLA) conference. He is the second winner of the

By John Austin Unachukwu

beautifully engraved trophy with a $5,000.00 monetary value. The inaugural award was won by Ms Robin Sully, a Canadian lawyer, who contributed to the rule of law both in Canada and across the Commonwealth Jayasuriy said: “ I am very happy, I feel that our cause has been achieved, we have been vindicated and all the sufferings we

passed through has been appreciated by the Commonwealth Lawyers Association. “I came up to this level because of circumstances. I led the Bar at the when the Chief Justice Shirani Bandaranayake of Sari Lanka was impeached. At that time, the Bar needed a leader who could pursue her cause to the very end. The lawyers gathered and gave me overwhelming mandate to do that and that is just what I did.”

LAW AND PUBLIC POWER

with gabriel AMALU email:gabrielamalu1@yahoo.com For comments: 08033054939 (sms only)

Attempts at auctochthonous constitution

•Mr. Jayasuriya (middle) flanked by his wife Chula (left) and daughter Erandi (right), all lawyers.

Lawyers hail CLA conference

AWYERS at the 19th edition of the Commonwealth Lawyers Association (CLA) Conference, which held in the Glasgow, Scotland, have scored the conference high in spite of poor attendance. They said the resource persons and quality of delivery made a great impact on them. The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) First Vice-President, Mr. Francis Ekwere said: “It has been a worthwhile experience being here. It has opened our eyes to see how conferences are organised, the seamless transition from one session to another, etc. We will try and see what we will do to improve our own conferences. We have a lot to take home from here.” Another participant, Mr. Rotimi

By John Austin Unachukwu

Oguneso (SAN), said: “It is very stimulating because it afforded various practitioners from the commonwealth countries the opportunity to exchange ideas, network and bring their individual experiences to this conference while they learn from each other.” To Mr. Aniedi Akpabio, the conference was a great success notwithstanding the low attendance. “The resource persons were carefully selected. Their delivery was fantastic and change of sessions seamless. I urge lawyers from Commonwealth countries to always strive to attend this conference because it is quite interesting and very rewarding,” he said.

Another participant, Mr. P.C.N. Okorie, described the conference as rewarding. A commissioner in the Nigerian Law Reform Commission, Kefas Mogaji said: “The conference was indeed; a huge success. First of all, the resource persons are those that are experienced and vast in their various areas.” A former Muslim Lawyers Association of Nigeria (MULAN) president Tajudeen Oladoja, said: “I will take home how to enhance access to justice for teeming Nigerian indigent clients because that is the focal point of one of the sessions I attended at the conference.”

•Basil Udotai; Nigerian Bar Association Section on Business Law (NBA-SBL) Vice-Chair Olumide Akpata; Chief Judge of the Federal High Court Justice Ibrahim Auta; Funke Agbor, Agada Elachi and Endurance Uhumuavbi during a courtesy visit on Justice Auta in Abuja.

HE Nigerian people have been dealt a double whammy, in the closing days of the Jonathan presidency. As things stand, both the “new constitution” from the Jonathan’s national conference and the national assemblyarranged fourth constitutional amendment,may become relics of our political history. Tragically, the relics would have been accumulated at humongous costs to the tax payers. While the legislative enterprise cost about 4 billion naira, the executive business is said to cost not less than 7 billion naira. The monies were substantially spent to smother our duplicitous political elites; who gathered at the variously organised jamborees, even as the organizers appear to know they were merely playing poker, with our commonwealth. With the presidency and national assembly controlled by the same political party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP);it is a measure of the party’s lack of discipline that they choose to work at cross purposes. President Jonathan’s so called master stroke - the constitutional conference, has now turned out a mere smoke bubble. Yet at that time, the hopes of long suffering Nigerians were heightened that at last, Nigeria was about to have something close toan autochthonous constitution. Even when the president choose to heavily induce the selected members, with sums that beggars any patriotism, (a whopping 12 million naira, per person), many still invested hope in the conference. On their part the national assembly which refused to give a legislative imprimatur to the conference, also refused to entertain any budgetary allowance for it. To show to what dubious use the so called executive-wide votes can be put, Jonathan’s men were able to raise the billionsneeded to excessively pay-off, the 492 conferees, which this column called thenan ensnarement into “the gang of national treasury looters”. Because the tension which had risen following President Jonathan’s determined presidential ambition, suddenly ricocheted, as the selected troublesome elites busied themselves with sharing the billions; Bishop Matthew Kukah made the famous quip, that Jonathan has dealt his opponents ‘a master stroke’. As may be obvious now, the Jonathan’s master stroke was only successfully aimed against the national patrimony. Meanwhile, the quality of the men and women gathered by Jonathan, gave many the hope that something positive may yet come out of the exercise. After several weeks, the conference submitted a report which commentators claimed would revolutionize the political and socio-economic laws of the country; which no doubt is more unitary than federal. Unfortunately, instead of Jonathan’s presidency moving with speed to implement the recommendations that require mere executive actions, and also submit a bill on others to the national assembly, it choose to set up another committee over that report. Of course, all efforts to get Nigerians to give Jonathan a second term, with a promise to implement the recommendations if re-elected,have turned a mirage. On their part, with a mind-set, to cut the executive to size; the legislature in complete disregard to the fundamental principle of appropriation, also dug its heavy hand into the treasury, and with 4 billion in their pockets, they setouton a nation-wide consultation (some called it a frolic), towards a fourth amendment of the 1999 constitution.In the particular effort of the lower chamber of the national assembly, a mini-conference was organized under the suzerainty of each Representative, to garner what they touted were the preferences of the people, from a list determined by the House. The senate also arrogantly set their minds to determine what the people wanted, as they organized town hall meetingswith their acolytes, which they passed-off as consultations. Pretending to be the only patriots, the national assembly members went ahead to fashion a fourth amendment, in their own image. One of the major highlights is the provision of mind boggling luxury for their principle officers, at retirement. They did not spare a thought about being one of the highest paid legislature in the world;which according to some sources, amounts to about 25% of the annual national budget. Having flagrantly over the years usurped the powers of anexecutive body, the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission, the gamers at the national assembly also tried to chip-off more powers from the executive;in further defiance of the fundamental principles of separation of powers, which is the bedrock of a presidential system of government. Just as the current regime is about to wind up, it has become evident that the 7th legislative house and the Jonathan executive,would jointly and severally carry home the moral baggage that goes with their respective illfated expensive jolly rides.While the legislature early enough sought to make a mockery of the constitutional conference, by refusing to gift it, a legal premise; the Jonathan presidency waited for its dying days to hand over to the legislature, a mock exam in constitutionalism. With clear malice against each other, the two prodigals have submitted their petty quarrel to the Supreme Court for adjudication. I support the intervention of the learned silk, Femi Falana (SAN), urging the national assembly and the presidency to come down from their high horses, and immediately seek a compromise in the interest of Nigerians. Eating such humble pie would enable the country gain a modicum of reform, if for instance, some provisions of chapter 11 of the 1999 constitution, dealing with fundamental objectives and directive principle of state policy,gains justiciability under the fourth amendment. At least, it would reduce the resources that would be available for more prodigality,in case the 8th national assembly retains their predecessor’s DNA. If for instance education is made a fundamental right, then there will be less resources for the executive to steal or mismanage. President Jonathan with few enduring legacies, should consider reaching a compromise with the legislators, instead of the double dealings against greater national interests.

THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 28, 2015

LAW REPORT

Only a party’s leadership can determine existence or proof of division IN THE SUPREME COURT OF NIGERIA HOLDEN AT ABUJA ON FRIDAY THE 17TH DAY OF APRIL, 2015 BEFORE THEIR LORDSHIPS MAHMUD MOHAMMED, J.S.C. JOHN AFOLABI FABIYI, J.S.C. SULEIMAN GALADIMA, J.S.C. OLABODE RHODES-VIVOUR, J.S.C. MUSA DATTIJO MUHAMMAD, J.S.C. CLARA BATA OGUNBIYI, J.S.C. KUDIRAT MOTONMORI OLATOKUNBO KEKERE-EKUN, J.S.C. SC.643/2014(REASONS) (2015) LPELR-24588(SC) BETWEEN: HON. IFEDAYO SUNDAY AGBEGUNDE ————————————— APPELLANT AND THE ONDO STATE HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY & ORS —————- RESPONDENTS LEAD JUDGMENT DELIVERED BY MUSA DATTIJO MUHAMMAD, J.S.C. On 19th March, 2015, having found the appeal and the cross-appeal to which this judgment relates unmeritorious, the Court dismissed the two and promised to give the reasons. The reasons are provided anon.

HE appellant contested and won the Akure North/South Federal constituency seat on the platform of the Labour Party. He abandoned the party and defected to the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN). He asserts that the factionalization or division in the Ondo State Chapter of the Labour Party accounts for his defection to the Action Congress of Nigeria. By an originating summons filed on the 26th January, 2012, the Appellant as Plaintiff commenced Suit No. FHC/AK/CS/31/2012 at the Federal High Court, hereinafter referred to as the trial Court, seeking the interpretation of Section 68(1) (a) and (g) of the 1999 Constitution as amended and a declaration thereon that by virtue of the proviso to the Section he is entitled to remain the elected member for Akure North/South Federal constituency inspite of his defection from the Labour Party that sponsored him to the Action Congress of Nigeria, (ACN). Appellant also urges that the Defendants, the Respondents herein, be restrained from howsoever tampering with his right to the Federal seat.

The 1st - 3rd Respondents not only contested Appellant’s claim, they counter-claimed against him. They assert that by virtue of the very proviso to Section 68(1) (g) of the 1999 Constitution as amended, the Appellant who, on the basis of the factionalization or division in the Ondo State Chapter of the Labour Party alone, defected to the Action Congress of Nigeria, automatically ceases to be the elected member for the Akure North/South Constituency. It was Defendants’ prayers that the seat be declared vacant and the Independent National Electoral Commission ordered to conduct a bye election for the vacant seat. Appellant’s claim as contained in his originating summons and the 1st - 3rd Respondents’ counter-claim were taken together. The trial Court in a considered judgment while dismissing Appellant’s claim granted the 1st - 3rd Respondents’ counterclaim. Dissatisfied with the trial Court’s decision, the Appellant appealed to the Court of Appeal, Akure Division, hereinafter referred to as the Court below. The Court in a

well considered judgment dismissed the appeal decision and affirmed the trial Court’s decision. Still aggrieved, the Appellant appealed to the Supreme Court. The 5th and 7th Respondents also cross-appealed against the Lower Court’s judgment. The sole issue distilled by the Appellant in his brief of argument which the Respondents to the appeal, except the 5th and 7th, seem to adopt as having arisen for the determination of the appeal, reads:“Whether the Lower Court’s interpretation and application of Sections 68(1) (a) (g) and 222(a) (e) and (f) of the Constitution of Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended) is valid, when it affirmed the trial Court’s decision, that a dispute at the state level does not warrant the Appellant’s defection and consequently arrived at the conclusion that the National leadership of a political party determine the existence or proof of division in a political party.” On their sole issue, learned Appellant’s counsel contended that the trial Court’s interpretation of Section 68(1) (a) and (e) of the 1999 Constitution and the Lower Court’s affirmation of same are wrong in law. The position of the two Courts that it is only a dispute or crisis which consumes the national leadership of a political party that entitles the Appellant who had defected from the party that sponsored him because of the crisis to retain his seat, is not what Section 68(1) (a) and (g) of the 1999 Constitution envisages. A political party, it was contended, exists at various levels, to wit, ward, local government, state and national levels. Crisis at any of these levels, not necessarily at the national level of the party alone, submitted learned Appellant counsel, fits the division Section 68(1) (a) (g) contemplates as justifying a defection from the political party that sponsored the defector as well as the retention by the defector of his seat. The Appellant, it was further submitted, was justified to retain his seat having abandoned the Labour Party that sponsored him because the state chapter of the party is factionalized and divided. Further arguing the issue, learned counsel contended that the rules of statutory interpretation require the two Courts to ascribe to the words that make up Section 68(1) (a) and (e) they are asked to interprete their ordinary literal meaning without more. Section 222(a) and (f) of the Constitution which the Courts relied upon to

interprete Section 68(1) (a) and (g) only outlines conditions for the eligibility of an association to operate as a political party in Nigeria. It does not, as wrongly held by the Courts, in any way help in defining the type of division provided under Section 68(1) (a) and (e). By erroneously imputing the word “faction” at the national level of the political party and cross-referencing the word into Section 222 of the 1999 Constitution, the Courts stand liable for reading into the Constitution what the legislature does not intend. Further relying on Imah V. Okogbe (1993) 9 NWLR (Pt.316) 159 at 173; (1993) LPELR-1497(SC), AG Federation V. AG Lagos State (2013) 16 NWLR (Pt 1380) 249 at 317; LPELR-SC.340/2010 and Agwuna V. AG Federation (1995) LPELR -258 (SC), learned counsel urged that the Lower Court’s circumscribed statutory interpretation rather than the liberal one be discountenanced. Concluding, learned counsel submitted that the Lower Court’s wrong resort to the decisions of the Court in Fedeco V. Goni (1983) LPELR-1256 (SC) and Abubakar V. AG Federation (2007) 10 NWLR (Pt 1041) 178; LPELR-SC.7/2007 does not save its judgment. Learned counsel urged that the issue be resolved in their favour and the appeal allowed. Responding, learned counsel to the 1st - 3rd Respondents submitted that the facts on the basis of which the Appellant sought his reliefs and the 1st - 3rd Respondents counter-claimed against him are not in dispute. The resolution of the dispute created by the facts, learned counsel submitted, requires the communal interpretation and application of Sections 68(1)(g), 221, 222(a)(e) and (f) and 229 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended). The Lower Court in determining whether and how the meaning of these Sections relate to these ascertained facts, learned counsel further submitted, must be guided by certain rules. Basic among these rules, it was submitted, is the duty on the Court to consider the Constitution from which the particular sections emanate as a whole and ascribe to the clear and unambiguous words which make up the Sections their ordinary literal meaning. The two Courts have dutifully applied the relevant principles correctly and rightly concluded that the type of division envisaged under Section 68(1) (e) of the Constitution is one that affects the entire structure of the political party. •To be continued next week

Stakeholders seek laws to regulate used car importation

•From left: Dr Olarewaju, Dr Nwagwu, Mr Oresanya, Ms. Freyer, Dr Kummer and Shasore

TAKEHOLDERS have called for laws to regulate the importation of used Euro pean cars, which have reached the end of their lives. A former Lagos State Attorney-General, Mr Olasupo Shasore (SAN) said such laws should set a limit to the age of vehicles brought into the country. He spoke in an interview with reporters at a colloquium in Lagos to mark the 2015 Earth Day, organised by the Kuramo Conferences and the Resource Innovation and Solutions Network Nigeria (RISSN), initiators of the Sustainability School Lagos. The theme was: Solutions for a sustainable future. A German chemist and toxologist, Dr. Beate Kummer said Nigeria had become a dumping ground for “end-of-life” vehicles

By Joseph Jibueze

meant for recycling in Europe. She said about 300,000 of such cars were pushed into Nigeria in 2012, adding: “Nigeria is a huge market for end-of-life vehicles, which are sold for dumping prices. These vehicles are often smuggled from Europe or North America through over 1,400 illegal routes.” Shashore said Nigeria can stop being a dumping ground for such rejected items through the enactment of relevant laws and proper regulation. “We have learned that there is an end-oflife designation for European cars. We don’t have legislation that creates a cut-off period for the end-of-life of a vehicle, the point at which a vehicle must be recycled.

“We don’t have legislation that can designate use of batteries, telephones and our inverters at home. They become hazardous and harmful when they are not disposed of properly. It affects the soil and the water, and drinking it can lead to cancer. “If we have the knowledge as legal practitioners, we can lobby for a framework to be created. That is a lacuna in our laws right now. All we do is find ways in which we discourage it hopefully by increasing the importation duty. “Some of these vehicles have reached the end of their lives in the countries of their importation. There is no framework. “We hope that will be one of the points that should make the agenda of this colloquium,” Shasore said.

RISSN Director Dr Olufemi Olarewaju called for the strengthening of the legal framework to reduce the import of rejected vehicles and other expired and harmful appliances into Nigeria. “Advocacy is what we need to be a part of. We’ll be doing a lot of engagements,” he told reporters. First of all we don’t even know what the legal framework is. In terms of abandoned vehicles for instance, why should a car that is condemned somewhere in the world be able to come into Nigeria freely? “In our situation most of the time the laws are in the books. We just have challenges in enforcing them. The legal framework is significant because it is based on it that the private sector can operate; they need to obey the laws of the land. It’s a critical component of what we need to achieve going forward.” Managing Director of the Lagos Waste Management Agency (LAWMA) Mr Ola Oresanya believes having a strong database of what is imported would help in regulation. He, however, argued that what is considered old or useless in one country may not been seen as such another, saying: “What is ‘end-of-life’ in Europe may not be ‘end-oflife’ here. You define what is ‘end-of-life’. It’s a relative word really; it’s not absolute.” Among the guests were Dr Babatunde Ajibade (SAN), former Civil Liberties Organisation (CLO) president, Mrs Ayo Obe; environmentalist Newton Jibunoh; Country Director, Africare Nigeria Dr Orode Doherty; Manager, First Bank Sustainability Centre, Lagos Business School Dr. Ijeoma Nwagwu; ms. Baerbel Freyer of the German Industry and Commerce in Nigeria, among others.

THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 28, 2015

SHOWBIZ Fans react as Desmond Elliot pushes Huawei brand on Twitter

Artistes shine as Star launches Music Trek

T was all fun and excitement on Friday night, as top rated artistes stormed the Star music trek signon gig. The gig, which took place at the Federal Palace Hotel, Lagos, kicked off at about 8pm and lasted till late in the night. The event feature performances from the likes of Skales, Oritse Femi, Black Magic, Lil Kesh, Sound Sultan and General Pype. This was preceded by the unveiling of the names of cities the shows will touch, as well as headliners for this year’s edition of the trek. Speaking on this year’s trek, Corporate Affairs Adviser, NB Plc, Kufre Ekanem stated that the choice of acts was based on their dedication to their musical careers, an attitude the Star brand seeks to celebrate. Among those revealed to perform at the road show include pop icon, 2face Idibia, BET Awards winner, Davido, Wizkid, Chocolate City rapper, MI and Seyi Shay. Other artistes are, Timaya, Wande Coal, Burna Boy, Naeto C, Mr. Raw, Yemi Alade, Oritse Femi, Faze, Runtown, Cynthia Morgan, Banky W, Sean

By Joe Agbro Jr

•MI, Corporate Affairs Adviser NB Plc Kufre Ekanem, Banky W, SoundSultan, Naeto C

Tizzle, Pasuma, Sound Sultan and Black Magic. The DJs on board are DJXclusive, DJ Snoop Damaja, DJ Switch, Tony Blaze and DJ Big N. Hosts are Lafup,

By Ovwe Medeme

Dupe Ayinla-Olasunkanmi

ETERAN Nollywood actress, Hilda Dokubo has returned to her first love, acting, on a new advocacy movie titled Stigma. The actress who has been away for quite a while revealed that she is presently working on more scripts as well as her own TV show. Speaking with The Nation at the screening of Stigma, a movie on stigmatization which took place at the Nigerian Film Corporation last Saturday, Dokubo said that her decision to star in the movie is because it is a cause she believes in. “People have done movies about how we can contact HIV AIDS, living with HIV AIDS but we have hardly done anything on what happens after people have contracted the virus and how people could deal with living with it. Stigmatisation is a killer. It just means rejection as a result of it. And when people reject the victims, it is the same as showing hate. When people show you hate, you can’t grow. Hate is negative energy. You can’t tap any kind of strength from rejection or from hate. But you can tap a lot of strength from love and that is what is special about this,” she said. Hilda plays the role of Ibiso who works as a local midwife. In the cause of her work, she contracts HIV which she passes on to her daughter, Vanessa (Jackie Appiah). While the mother dies of rejection, the daughter thrives in an atmosphere of love and acceptance. The movie, directed by Dagogo Diminas, also stars the likes of Emeka Ike, Ngozi Nwosu and Soibifaa Dokubo among others.

•Oritse Femi

Sapele, Auchi, Ibadan and Lagos. Present at the sign-on gig were Banky W, Naeto C, Sound Sultan, MI, Mr Raw, Seyi Shay, Oritse Femi and other super stars.

Hilda Dokubo bounces back in new movie, Stigma

Oritse Femi’s smart move T is no longer news that Double Wahala crooner, Oritse Femi made headlines few days back when he claimed that the mother of his child, Blessing Rawa, hacked his Instagram ID to make his private messages public. In what appears to be a new twist to the whole drama, the artiste has taken to his Instagram handle and that of Blessing to claim that the exchange of words is nothing but a means of attracting attention for his new album titled Money Stops Nonsense set for release next month. He wrote: “Fans dnt be 2 serious...dats aw we pull our stunt....lol ....main why dnt forget my album is dropping on de 1st of May .. MSN…Super classic album of de year...#dempackamchop...hahahaaa.” According to the artiste, Money Stops Nonsense has singles already released. Some of the tracks include; the remix of Double Wahala ft. D’Banj, Mercy, Story of my Life, Igbeyawo, Redi Dance, Sukus ft. Harrysong, Zangarewa ft. Skales, Money ft. Timaya and others.

Gbenga Adeyinka and Do2dtun. The trek will kick off on Saturday, May 2, 2015 in Calabar, Cross Rivers State and will visit other cities like Abakaliki, Awka, Makurdi,

FTER recently winning an election to represent Surulere Constituency at the Lagos State House of Assembly, Nollywood actor turned politician, Desmond Elliot, is using his starpower to push Huawei, an electronic brand. Taking the campaign to his Twitter handle, Elliot had asked his fans to form a sentence using ‘Huawei Mate 7’, one of the products of the phone company to stand a chance to win the phone. “It’s still on. Make a sentence with ‘Huawei Mate 7’. We have 1 winner already, one more to go! Best wishes guys,” he wrote in another tweet. As at Sunday evening, the tweet had already elicited lots of reactions from fans who creatively made use of ‘Huawei Mate 7’ in sentences. However, some of his fans wondered why he is still endorsing brands after winning the seat to represent his constituency as a lawmaker. ‘Oga, remember u r no more only N’wood celebrity r now a honourable,’ tweeted Adewale Ajose to the actor. ‘All dis Huawei hav 2 stop. Don’t go&start lobbying 4 dem in d hs.’

•Hilda Dokubo

•Desmond Elliot

Tantalizers hosts Nigerian Idol finalists

LL was lively on Sunday at the Ajose Adeogun, Victoria Island outlet of Tantalizers Plc in Lagos when the quick-service restaurant hosted the 12 finalists of the fifth edition of the Nigerian Idol. Tantalizers, the official food partner in the on-going music reality show, threw the surprise event for the contestants to ease off stress after going through rigorous sessions in the previous rounds of the contest. The contestants were received by

By Wale Ajetunmobi

the top management staff of the eatery. Customers were thrilled by the contestants’ short performances, making the premises to come alive in excitement. Tantalizers’ Deputy Managing Director, Mr. Gbolahan Labinjo, said the company decided to partner with the show because of its belief in assisting the youth to achieve their dreams. He said the partnership, which started two

years ago, has the objective to ensure the Nigerian Idol contestants and the organisers are nourished and revitalized in the course of the event. Labinjo said; “We partner with the Nigerian Idol organisers because we felt the need to keep the contestants, crew and other people involved in the project continuously revitalised and nourished during the exercise. Our continuous involvement in the project will take care of the challenge.”

The contestants were treated to exciting fun period during the twohour event, which afforded them an opportunity to meet their admirers for photograph and autograph. After their lunch, the contestants took turn to entertain members of the audience with songs and dance steps. The contestants were also presented with Tantalizers’ branded gift certificates, which they can use to buy food or gift items at any of the eatery’s outlets.

•Deputy Managing Director of Tantalizers Plc, Mr. Gbolahan Labinjo (Middle) and other officials of the company with the Nigerian Idol Season 5 final 12 contestants during the “Day Out with Tantalizers” by the contestants o

THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 28, 2015

HEALTH THE NATION

E-mail:- health@thenationonlineng.net

During this year’s World Malaria Day, last Saturday, the World Health Organisation (WHO) canvassed the need to address gaps in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of malaria, writes OYEYEMI GBENGA-MUSTAPHA and WALE ADEPOJU.

Can there be end to malaria scourge? T

HE figures are scary. Malaria, experts say, kills more people than HIV if appropriate treatment is not given. It is for this that the World Health Organisation (WHO) has called for more commitment to the eradication of the disease in Africa in particular. It made the call during this year’s World Malaria Day last Saturday, with the theme, Invest in the future: Defeat malaria, set by the Roll Back Malaria Partnership. The theme reflects the targets set in a draft post-2015 strategy, to be presented to the World Health Assembly next month. The new strategy aims to reduce malaria cases and deaths by 90 percent by 2030. Four countries have been certified free of malaria in the last decade; they are the United Arab Emirates (2007), Morocco (2010), Turkmenistan (2010) and Armenia (2011). The post-2015 strategy sets the goal of eliminating the disease from a further 35 countries by 2030. The event created a chance to highlight the advances that have been made in malaria prevention and control, and to commit to continued investment and action to accelerate progress against this deadly disease. According to WHO, while huge gains in the fight against malaria have been made in recent years, the disease still has a devastating impact on people’s health and livelihoods around the world, particularly in Africa, where it kills almost half a million children under five each year. According to WHO Assistant Director-General for HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis, Malaria and Neglected Tropical Diseases, Dr Hiroki Nakatani, effective tools to prevent and treat malaria exist, but more funds are urgently required to make them available to the people who need them and to combat emerging drug and insecticide resistance. “As we celebrate World Malaria Day on April 25, we must recognise the urgent need to expand preventive measures and qualityassured diagnostic testing and treatment to reduce the human suffering caused by malaria,” he said. Head, Malaria Research Programme at the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR), Yaba, Lagos, Dr Sam Awolola, said malaria is still a health issue. According to the malariologist, the disease is responsible for most deaths in the country, specifically those in the rural areas where access to tests and modern drugs are often available. The researcher said most efficient mosquitoes, which transmit malaria parasites, are common in the country because of geographical location. “Malaria is also responsible for lateness or absenteeism from work and low productivity due to loss of man-hour. Malaria is a disease caused by a parasite called plasmodium falciparum carried by anopheles mosquitoes, it is the most virulent. And it is responsible for about 98 per cent cases of malaria,” he said. Awolola said: “There are several species of plasmodium depending on where people are. We have some that even attack animals. But the one that attacks human is called plasmodium falciparum as found in Nigeria, other Africa countries and the Asia. Nigeria; is endemic to malaria because there is a breeding ground for the Anopheles mosquito to thrive. To prevent malaria attack, he recommended, WHO treatment guidelines. Updated “Guidelines for the Treatment of Malaria” as issued by WHO last week. They include the latest recommendations on preventive treatment for infants, children under five and pregnant women. The updated guidelines should help expand access to recommended treatments. For uncomplicated malaria cases, WHO recommends the use of artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACTs). Globally, 392 million ACT courses were procured by malaria-endemic countries in 2013, up from just 11 million in 2005. However, millions of people are

•Mosquito

Guidelines on treatment Updated “Guidelines for the Treatment of Malaria” have been released by WHO. They include the latest recommendations on preventive treatment for infants, children under 5 and pregnant women. The updated guidelines should help expand access to recommended treatments. For uncomplicated malaria cases, WHO recommends the use of artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACTs). Globally, 392 million ACT courses were procured by malaria-endemic countries in 2013, up from just 11 million in 2005. However, millions of people are still not treated for malaria, primarily because the communities most affected by the disease have limited access to health care. WHO recommends diagnostic testing for all suspected malaria cases to ensure that malaria drugs are used only for those who have the disease and that—when a test is negative—other causes of fever are investigated. Rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) are now

widely available and more than 319 million were purchased in 2013 compared to 46 million in 2008. Despite this progress, nearly 40 percent of people with suspected malaria at public health facilities in Africa are not tested. WHO also recommends that the most vulnerable groups in malaria-endemic areas of sub-Saharan Africa—pregnant women, children under 5, and infants—receive preventive treatment to reduce the risk of malaria infection. Preventive treatments are highly cost-effective, with the potential to save tens of thousands of lives each year. Coverage with such treatments, however, remains low and needs to be significantly scaled up. The need to urgently address gaps in preventive treatment for malaria is also being highlighted by the Roll Back Malaria (RBM) Partnership, which has issued a global call to action to increase national coverage with preventive treatment in pregnancy. Source: www.who.int

still not treated for malaria, primarily because the communities most affected by the disease have limited access to health care. WHO recommends diagnostic testing for all suspected malaria cases to ensure that malaria drugs are used only for those who have the disease and that—when a test is negative— other causes of fever are investigated. Rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) are now widely available and more than 319 million were purchased in 2013 compared to 46 million in 2008. Despite this progress, nearly 40 percent of people with suspected malaria at public health facilities in Africa are not tested. WHO also recommends that the most vulnerable groups in malaria-endemic areas of sub-Saharan Africa—pregnant women, children under five, and infants—receive preventive treatment to reduce the risk of malaria infection. Preventive treatments are highly cost-effective, with the potential to save tens of thousands of lives each year. Coverage with such treatments, however, remains low and needs to be significantly scaled up. The need to address gaps in preventive treatment for malaria is also being highlighted by the Roll Back Malaria (RBM) Partnership, which has issued a global call to action to increase national coverage with preventive treatment in pregnancy. The malariologist said the best initiative in malaria management is prevention which is better than cure, “and the best method is to sleep under LLINs or get your house treated with indoor residual spray (IRS); they are very effective and should be used according to instructions,” he said.

Dr Awolola said Nigerians should embrace the right use of long lasting insecticide treated nets (LLITNs), “insecticide-treated bed nets are the most cost-effective way to prevent its transmission. People should sleep under nets, we found out that many stopped using nets because they claimed they feel too hot underneath but this should not deter them. Our study revealed that people lifestyles could be part of the challenges of not using nets, for instance, the Fulani herd men still sleep in the open air in the north. Nigerians ought to use long lasting insecticide nets, spray the wall of their home with chemicals or use aerosol in the houses. Malaria can be prevented by applying insecticide to the inside walls of individual homes. Mosquitoes that land on treated walls are killed, preventing the transmission of malaria. Early treatment with anti-malaria drugs, such as Artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACTs) can effectively cure malaria.” Awolola said artemisinim-based combination therapy (ACT) for effective treatment of malaria, according to WHO recommendation should be adopted. He said chloroquine, which was popular in the 80s and 90s as malaria therapy, has failed. This, he said, is because there are parasites that have become resistant to it because of its wrong dosage. “It is still a very effective drug but most people take substandard dosage while some do not follow the required regimen which made the parasites develop resistance to it. This is why we changed from chloroquine and other monotherapies to ACTs. ACT is a combination of two different

drugs of two varying modes of action therefore it is very effective against the parasites. In Cambodia and other parts of Asia, they have also resulted to ACTs. That does not mean there is no resistance to ACT. What we try to do at NMIR is to be vigilant. This effort is called pharmacovigilance. We monitor the use of chloroquine in the field, and the parasites with reaction to chloroquine, we’ve researched into how the drug has been effective over the parasites over the years. In whatever we do in the treatment, research or malaria, we stick to WHO recommendations,” he said. He identified a challenge. “Mosquitoes nowadays are adapting to the environment as they are also getting resistant to insecticides. This is becoming a big problem in our environment. At present, it is a key area of research in the country. We are researching into this with the help of WHO, we want to identify why the problem of resistance. We are doing that to support the National Malaria Control Programme (NMCP),” he said. He urged the government to fund malaria more, adding that providing nets or drugs alone cannot solve the problem but rather the environment where mosquitoes breed should be taken care of. “There should be environmental management and protection. Also, there should be reengineering. The way people build their houses are wrong and it encourages mosquitoes breeding. People should ensure there is environmental sanitation and avoid those practices which encourage mosquitoes, such as putting eaves in houses built, especially in the villages where we have the most burden of the disease and about 60 per cent of the country population,” he said. The researcher said the country is not yet ripe to use vaccine against malaria as the best method is what is presently being done. “Moreover, people should use the prevention prescribed and those having the disease should be promptly diagnosed and receive treatment. They must be tested to be sure they are carrying the parasite before they are given the drug, if not, it will mean they are misusing the drug, which may cause some problems later in life,” he said.

Firm, NGO partner on malaria prevention By Oyeyemi Gbenga-Mustapha

N commemoration of this year’s World Malaria Day, ExxonMobil has partnered with Youth Empowerment and Development Initiative (YEDI) to combat the disease, with a tournament tagged: Kick against malaria football tournament. The tournament, now in its third year, was held at Q.I.C Primary School, Usung Inyang, in Akwa Ibom State. According to ExxonMobil, sustained efforts by corporations, individuals and organisations on Malaria awareness, prevention and control are yielding results as Malaria mortality rate in the WHO African region has fallen by 54 percent and by 47percent globally since 2000. And since that year (2000), ExxonMobil has become a leading private investor in Malaria, with an investment of over $120 million that has seen the distribution of 13,186,369 bed nets, 1,922,031 doses of anti-malarial drugs and 1,054,165 rapid diagnostic kits. This intervention which has reached more than 105 million people in Africa and Asia has trained of 355,484 healthcare workers and counsellors, as early diagnosis and treatment reduce the disease, prevent deaths and reduce transmission. Since 2013, ExxonMobil has sponsored Youth Empowerment and Development Initiative (YEDI) with the Kick Against Malaria Football Tournament to provide Malaria Testing and Treatment, Free Health Services, InsecticideTreated Net Distribution, and much more to communities in Nigeria.

THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 28, 2015

HEALTH

Funding research ‘ll promote medicine, say experts

PECIALISTS in medicine have called for more funding for research and development to advance medicine in Nigeria. According to an embryologist Prof Oladapo Ashiru, more awareness and support for medical education are required to move the country’s healthcare forward. Ashiru spoke at the 14th Annual Scientific Conference of the Society of Experimental and Clinical Anatomists of Nigeria (SECAN),

By Wale Adepoju

Lagos. It had as theme: Current trends in biomedical research; the subtheme was: the anatomist: catalyst for medical education. He said funding research, especially in anatomy will move health care forward because “anatomists serve as a mechanism for promoting medical education.” The reproductive expert said there is need for advances in anatomical teaching and research to

‘Malaria prevention can save billions’

ALARIA prevention can save Nigeria billions of Naira as curing the disease is more expensive than preventing it. Efforts have been made by various groups to prevent the disease. For instance, the Society for Family Health (SFH), has encouraged the use of mosquito nets by distributing same freely (Long Lasting Insecticidal Nets freely). According to Safurat Eromosele of SFH, “LLINs are factory-treated mosquito nets that are safe, easy to use, and come in a variety of sizes and colours to address individual needs. Some LLINs are effective for up to four years and will last a minimum of 20 washes – they require no re-treatment during this time, making them five to 10 times more effective than conventional re-treatable mosquito nets.LLINs are an inexpensive and easy way to prevent malaria and thus reduce its burden on the health and economic well-being of Nigerians. SFH uses its extensive marketing and distribution channels to move LLINs all across Nigeria so that they are available to everyone, particularly women and children.” She said when prevention fails, treatment of malaria is critical. “In seeking treatment for malaria, some mothers are given the wrong drugs for their children, while others find treatment options confusing and difficult to complete the dosage. In 2003, SFH and other stakeholders developed an innovative approach to “pre-package” malaria treatment for easy use by mothers and families to rapidly and correctly treat malaria. SFH’s treatment programmes to combat malaria are focused on promoting and distributing an innovative and effective drug for malaria, called Artemisinin-based Combination Therapy (ACT). This is an easy way to use pre-packaged drug combination that ensures effective

health services support improved delivery, access and cost.” He called for public-private partnership (PPP) to promote biomedical research and as such ensure medical education. The anatomist advised the government to set up research centres across the country to develop the healthcare industry. “The Nigerian Universities Commission (NUC) has been promoting responsible and qualitative research to develop medicine,” he said. The future, he said, is for biomedical research to seek fundamental knowledge about the nature and behavior of living sys-

tems, adding that the knowledge will be applied to enhance human health, lengthen life and prevent illness and disability. SECAN President, Prof Hakeem Fawehinmi said anatomy as a discipline has faced a crisis of identity and purpose, adding that this has raised educational concerns. He said the approach to teaching of anatomy and medicine as a whole is shifting from its traditional methods to self-directed problem based or the integrated system oriented learning. “It is, therefore, taking advantage of Eteaching and learning,” Fawehinmi added.

By Oyeyemi Gbenga-Mustapha

treatment of malaria for children and adults as well. Now, SFH promotes ACT treatment using the pre-packaged method and distributes this product throughout Nigeria, especially in remote and rural communities. In 2014 alone, about 8.2 million doses of ACTs were distributed in the country. “SFH is actively engaged in behavioural change communication activities through mass media and community-based interpersonal communication activities to facilitate the adoption of positive behaviours by individuals and communities. These interpersonal communication activities available mostly in hard to reach communities, help to ensure that individuals are equipped with the right information and attitudes to prevent and treat malaria. SFH also works closely with the Federal Ministry of Health on technical matters, education, training, and coordinating on policy and research to move the nation forward on both prevention and treatment issues in the battle against malaria,” she stated. On other efforts to control the scourge, she said, “SFH has four projects that address malaria – the Global Fund Malaria Project, the Expanded Social Marketing Project in Nigeria (ESMPIN), the Rapid Access Expansion (RAcE) Programme and the Africa Health Markets for Equity (AHME) Programme. ACTwatch collects data to inform evidence-based malaria control policies and programmes. Regardless of the giant strides made so far, more needs to be done to defeat this fight against malaria in Nigeria. This could be achieved by intensifying our efforts and exploring innovative approaches to tackle the disease. Behaviour change communication to increase use of malaria prevention is important in this regard.”

First malaria vaccine out soon HE world’s first malaria vaccine, made by GlaxoSmithKline (GSK.L), could be approved by international regulators for use in Africa from October after final trial data showed it offered partial protection for up to four years. The shot, called RTS,S and designed for children in Africa, would be the first licensed human vaccine against a parasitic disease and could help prevent millions of cases of malaria, which currently kills more than 600,000 people a year. Experts have long hoped scientists would be able to develop an effective malaria vaccine, and researchers at the British drugmaker GSK have been working on RTS,S for 30 years. Hopes that this shot would be the final answer to wiping out malaria were dampened when trial data released in 2011 and 2012 showed it only reduced episodes of malaria in babies aged 6-12 weeks by 27 percent, and by around 46 percent in children aged 517 months. But the final stage follow-up data published in the Lancet journal on Fri-

take Nigeria to the next level. This, he said, would lead to improved understanding of human system, and as such ensure longevity and better treatment outcome. Professor of Anatomy at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), Abayomi Okanlawon said the Federal Government needs to provide more funding for research. He said the discovery of new medicine and therapies require careful scientific experimentation, development and evaluation. Okanlawon said research is a prerequisite for medical advances, adding: “It ensures that

day showed vaccinated children continued to be protected four years on, albeit at a declining rate — an important factor given the prevalence of the disease — and rates of protection were stronger with a booster shot. “Despite the falling efficacy over time, there is still a clear benefit from RTS,S,” said Brian Greenwood, a professor at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine who worked on the study. He said an average of 1,363 cases of clinical malaria were prevented over four years for every 1,000 children vaccinated, or 1,774 cases with a booster shot — the children would normally be expected to have had several cases of infection over that period. In babies, over three years of followup, an average 558 cases were prevented for every 1,000 vaccinated; and 983 cases in those who got a booster. “Given that there were an estimated 198 million malaria cases in 2013, this level of efficacy potentially translates into millions of cases of malaria in children being prevented,” Greenwood said. • Source: www.Reuters.com

• From left: Second prize winner, Mrs Oby Ibeh Okpareke; Managing Director, SKG Pharma Ltd, Akpa; Manager of Jonaco Pharmacy, Mr Chizoba Oleuku; General Manager, Sales and Customer Care, Mrs Patricia Iloba and MD, Eternity Concepts Ltd, Mr Chidi Akabuogu at the event.

SKG Pharma launches products

HARMACEUTICAL company SKG Pharma Limited has promised continued product development to meet customers’ yearnings for effective products, its Managing Director, Okey Akpa, has said. Akpa spoke during the SKG’s Trade Partners Conference and Awards in Lagos. According to him, the conference was to appreciate the trade partners who have been adding value to the company by interfacing between SKG Pharma and the final consumer of the products. The company also used the opportunity to launch some new products, such as SKG Rexifen, which is a 400mg, Ibuprofen capsule

By Oyeyemi Gbenga-Mustapha

product, SKG Galways 100mg vitamin C drops for newborns to 12 years plus, SKG Novadex Paracetamol 100mg BP drops for newborns to 11 months old babies with the advantage of being sugar free and SKG Novavite Multivitamin15ml drops for newborns to 12 months old babies plus, fortifies babies immune system against ailments and infections. The event was attended by trade partners all over the country. There were regional and national awards to honour high performing trade partners. These awards were complemented with mouth-water-

ing gifts. The grand award winner, Jonaco Pharmacy based in Onitsha, through its Manager Chizoba Oleuku, thanked SKG Pharma for helping him grow his business. “SKG looks out for its distributors and makes sure they grow along with the company, no one is left behind and I intend to remain in the SKG family” Mr. Oleuku said as he lifted his golden trophy beaming with smile. The second position went to Simba Pharmaceuticals represented by Mrs. Oby Ibeh Okpareke while the third position’s trophy was lifted by Mr. Chidi Akabougu of Eternity Concept.

• From right: President, Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN), Mr Olumide Akintayo; Vice President, Nigeria Academy of Pharmacy (NAP), Sir Ifeanyi Atueyi and Representative of Registrar, Pharmacists Council of Nigeria (PCN), Amaka Okafor, at the Pharmacy Education Summit of Nigeria Academy of Pharmacy (NAP) in Lagos. PHOTO: ABIODUN WILLIAMS

TUESDAY APRIL 28, 2015

POLITICS THE NATION

E-mail:- politics@thenationonlineng.net

All Progressives Congress (APC) senators-elect eyeing the Senate Presidency are lobbying party leaders to achieve their ambition. Group Political Editor EMMANUEL OLADESU examines the issues that will shape the contest and the chances of the contenders.

IVE All Progressives Congress (APC) senators - George Akume (Benue Northwest), Bukola Saraki (Kwara Central), Ahmad Lawan (Yobe North), Danjuma Goje (Gombe Central) and Adamu Abdullahi (Nasarawa West) -- are in the race for Senate president. They are lobbying for the support of leaders and stakeholders to become the number three citizen. The ranking senators, except Lawan, are former governors and leaders of the party in their states. Akume ruled Benue State between 1999 and 2007. Goje, Abdullahi and Saraki were governors in Gombe, Nasarawa and Kwara states. In addition, Goje and Abdullahi are former Ministers of State. Three of the aspirants-Akume, Saraki and Abdullahi -- are from the Northcentral. They were also compatriots in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) before they defected to the opposition party. Two aspirants-Goje and Lawan-are from the Northeast. All of them are eminently qualified to succeed the out-going Senate President, Gen. David Mark, who will become a floor member or the arrowhead of the opposition legislators in the next legislative dispensation. Had the Southeast and Southsouth not committed a political blunder in the recent elections, the Senate presidency would have been automatically zoned to either of the two zones. But, the senators-elect from the two regions belong to the PDP. The next Senate President will be the 13th Head of the National Assembly. In the First Republic, Nigeria had three Senate Presidents-the late Dr. Nnamidi Azikiwe (1960), the late Chief Dennis Osadebay (19601963) and the late Dr, N wafor Orizu (1963-1966). They belonged to the defunct National Council of Nigerian Citizens (NCNC). In the Second Republic, Dr. Joseph Wayas (1979-1983), a chieftain of the defunct National Party of Nigeria (NPN), was the only Senate President. In the aborted Third Republic, Dr. Iyorchia Ayu (1992-1993) and Ameh Ebute (1993) served as Senate Presidents. They were chieftains of the defunct Social Democratic Party (SDP). In the last 16 years, five Senate Presidents-the late Chief Evan Enwerem (1999), Dr. Chuba Okadigbo (1999-2000), Pius Ayim (2000-2003), Adolphus Wabara (2003-2005), Ken. Nnamani (2005-2007 and Gen. David Mark (2007-2015)-have been elected. They are PDP chieftains. The Senate President is second in line for the succession to the Presidency in the time of emergency. In the First Republic, when Nigeria practiced parliamentary system, the Senate President acted as the President •Akume when the ceremonial President was temporarily absent. In the Fourth Republic, the Presidents have shown keen interest in the antecedents and pedigrees of contestants for the number three position out of the fear that a strong Senate President may facilitate their impeachment, if they do not enjoy cordial relations. In the past, the President usually put his feet down on his choice for the position. The approach has unleashed acrimonious selection process and engendered bitterness. Thus, between 1999 and 2007, the Senate leadership did not enjoy stability of tenure. In eight years, the Senate had five Senate Presidents. Three of them were impeached by their colleagues. But, it appears the APC is now trying to democratise the selection process by giving opportunities to interested senators to vie. Also, the National Party Caucus is also brainstorming and managing the antagonistic ambitions of aspirants so that it will not be detrimental to party cohesion and unity. It is not clear whether the Chief John OdigieOyegun-led party has zoned the slot to any of the geo-political regions in the North. But, there is a con•Lawan sensus that the next Senate President should come from the North. So far, there is no agitation for the zoning of the position to the Northwest, which has produced the President-elect. The Northcentral has intensified its agitation for the position, following the outcome of the National Assembly elections. Also, a prominent APC leader from the Northeast, Senator Abba Bukar Ibrahim, who was the governor of Yobe State between 1999 and 2007, has urged the party to zone the seat to the region. He said the move will give the zone a sense of belonging and foster equity and justice in the party. Bukar has not shown interest in the race. However, other stakeholders from the zone have a contrary opinion. In their view, it is better to agitate for the zoning of the Speaker of the House of Representatives to the Northeast, because, in their view, this is more realistic. No fewer than six legislators from Borno, Yobe and Adamawa states are lobbying the party leadership to become the Speaker. Last week, apparently to douse the brewing tension over the scramble for the slot, APC National Publicity Secretary Alhaji Layiwola Mohammed clarified that the party has not taken any definite position on the zoning of the Senate Presidency. But, the scheming has

Who succeeds Senate President Mark

The New PDP, which defected from the main PDP and dissolved into the APC, altered the trend. In the recent elections, APC won the governorship polls and most of the parliamentary seats, except in Kogi, where there was no governorship contest. However, observers have raised some questions: will religion be a factor? Will ethnic balancing play a role? Presidentelect Buhari is a Fulani Muslim. Akume is a Christian. Saraki, Goje, and Abudullahi are Muslims. To observers, this is a non-issue. When Obasanjo, a Christian, was the President, Chief Evan Enwerem, the late Chuba Okadigbo and Senator Pius Ayim, who were Senate Presidents, were Christians. A senator-elect, who gave an insight into how the Senate President will emerge, said: “The next Senate will select the principal officers based on merit, competence, capacity and performance in past leadership positions.” The five aspirants are likely to meet these criteria. According to party sources, certain party leaders are rooting for Akume. The former Benue governor has been described as a cool, mature and committed party man, who braced the odds to make the APC a successful platform in the state. As governor for eight years, his achievements are evergreen. In 2007, Akume had indicated interest in the seat. Although the PDP favoured Mark for the position, he said there was no provision in the constitution forbidding any senator from the opposition party from vying for the seat. He later emerged as the Senate Minority Leader. But, former governors and governorselect appear to be gravitating towards Saraki, a youthful, hardworking and result-oriented politician with a mass appeal in his state. In the Second Republic, his illustrious father, the late Dr. Olusola Saraki, was the Senate Leader. He is interested in surpassing the achievement of the late Waziri of Ilorin in the Senate. The former Kwara governor and former Chairman of the Nigerian Governor’s Forum (NGF) defected with all the notable PDP chieftains to the APC, making the PDP a shadow of itself in the Northcentral state. During the general elections, the party, under his leadership, won the governorship poll and 95 percent of parliamentary seats. Although it has also been pointed out that Saraki is Yoruba, his supporters have said that this does not invalidate the fact that he is a Northerner. Lawan is also a serious contender. Sources said that he has the support of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and the Northeast APC governors and leaders. The zone has 15 senators and APC has 90 per cent of the House of Representatives members from the zone. Lawan has been described as a highly dependable party man and committed to party discipline and supremacy. The Senate is made up of 109 senators. Sixty five are from the APC. The PDP has 44 members. Therefore, opposition senators may also play a significant role in the choice of the Senate President, especially if there is no consensus or there is a split in the rank of APC senators. Out-going Senate President Mark is also scheming to retain the seat. He has 44 senators behind him. Therefore, he is hoping to profit from the split in the APC caucaus in the Senate. The calculation is that, if the Northcentral fails to put its house in order, the APC Senate caucus may go for a contender from the Northeast. But, if the split persists, Mark may capitalise on the division to project himself as a suitable candidate. A party source said the APC national leaders are not oblivious of the implications for the APC as the next ruling party. “Our leaders are trying to put their house in order so that the struggle for power at the Senate will not create problems for the new government at the centre. They are trying to build consensus and make members to project the larger, collective interest of the party, instead of projecting personal interests,” added the source.

•Saraki

•Abdullahi

•Goje

•Mark

been intensified by the aspirants and their supporters. There are six states in the Northcentral. They are Benue, Nasarawa, Plateau, Niger, Kwara and Kogi. Benue State has always been the beneficiary of the position in the past. It has produced Dr. Iyorcha Ayu, Senator Ahmed Ebute and Gen. Mark. Plateau has produced a Deputy Senate President, Senator Ibrahim Mantu. Also, Nasarawa produced former Deputy Senate President Haruna Abubakar. Three states-Niger, Kwara and Kogi-have not enjoyed the slot since 1999. However, senators-elect from Kogi, Kwara and Niger will not be ranking senators when the Upper Chamber is inaugurated in June. As green horns, they may not be eligible to contest. The lone exception is Saraki, the Chairman of the Senate Commitee on Environment and Ecology, who was reelected at the recent elections. Northcentral APC leaders agitating for the seat have pointed out that the zone mobilised support for the party with resounding success. Apart from Benue, where Akume has been an undisputed leader and the party has now won two senatorial seats, other states have resisted the opposition party since the restoration of civil rule.

THE NATION TUESDAY APRIL 28, 2015

ruling PDP in Benue went into both the presidential ‘The and National Assembly elections and the governorship and state House of Assembly elections as a divided house

Group challenges Buhari on corruption

NON-governmental organisation (NGO) with international network and interest in African affairs, Jose Foundation, has urged President-elect, Mohammadu Buhari, to fight corruption. In a statement in London, the foundation also canvassed for the setting up of a shadow government by the opposition, as it is practised in the United Kingdom, to checkmate the incoming government and help fight corruption rather than defecting to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). The statement signed by its President, Prince Martins Abhulimhen, congratulated Gen. Buhari and President Goodluck Jonathan for his support for the incoming government. Abhulimhen added that the foundation is at an advanced stage of organising a technical workshop in London targeted at Nigerian politicians, as part of its contributions towards strengthening democracy in Nigeria. According to him, the workshop will educate and enlighten politicians on the need to set up a shadow government to check the activities of the ruling government and proffer solutions when and where necessary. Gen. Buhari recently expressed

Youths urge Ambode to tackle restiveness

HE Coordinator of the Young Achievers Campaign Organisation of Nigeria (YACOON), Temitope Adewale, has urged the Lagos State Governor-elect, Akinwunmi Ambode, to tackle youth restiveness when he assumes office. Adewale said the youth voted for the governor-elect because of his pledge to tackle unemployment and social decadence in the society. The coordiantor added that youths were swayed by the campaign promises of the All Progressives Congress (APC ), adding that they voted for the party at all levels. Adewale said youths take to crime because of idleness and the lack of an enduring programme to keep them busy. He said they often succumb to the temptation of being used as political thugs during elections. He said some of the youths fronting the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) did not do so on the conviction that the party would address their problems, but because of

Gbajabiamila: Eyeing number four seat

By Muyiwa Lucas

reservations over politicians defecting to the APC, saying “I hope the people that are defecting will accept the fact that they are joining the people who succeeded. So, I don’t think they will just come and say they want to be ministers next month, simply because they were ministers before.” The foundation, Abhulimhen added, “will contribute its technical know-how to assist Nigerian politicians in setting up the shadow cabinet, to help deepen the culture of democracy, in the context of the evolving political order.” Abhulimhen advised Gen. Buhari “to look beyond party to get honest Nigerians who will serve Nigerians and put the interest of the country beyond selfish interests.” He noted that Nigeria is blessed with many qualified and enlightened men and women that will be useful in the new Nigeria and that the President-elect should look both within and outside the country, with a view of inviting capable hands to move the country forward. The foundation’s president called on well meaning Nigerians to cooperate with the incoming government, so that it can deliver dividends of democracy to the benefit of the people.

By Musa Odoshimokhe

what they stood to benefit immediately. Adewale said: “Many of the youths that portrayed themselves as Jimi Agbaje’s fans did not have permanent voter’s cards (PVC), talk less of getting out to vote; all they know how to do is to use the social media, read and learn politics on Linda Ikeji’s blog. “On the other hand, the APC governorship candidate, now Governorelect, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode had the most awkward fans, ranging from the artisans to the motor parks, Unions, students, professionals and all the way to the grassroots and this are the real electorates. “The youths of Lagos decided, they believe in Ambode and with Ambode they stood for victory. But, as much as the victory is worth celebrating, it is also most important to state that the hope and the expectations of the electorate must be met.”

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is ‘ notGbajabiamila one who shies away from his responsibilities and actions as a leader

’

•Gbajabiamila

HAT Femi Gbajabiamila carries himself like a true leader, is not new. That he acts and talks the part is also not new. That he is a nationalist is not new as well because his antecedent speaks volume but what is new is that he’s never been the leader of the ruling party in the House of Representatives. As the House’s ‘Minority Whip’ leader, Gbajabiamila was many things. He was the voice of the House as well as the enforcer. He pushed that democracy be practiced in Nigeria like in developed countries. For starters, lets refresh on the role of a ‘Whip’ and how Gbajabiamila played the part. “A whip is an official in a political party whose primary purpose is to ensure party discipline in a legislature. Whips are a party’s “enforcers,” who typically offer inducements and threaten party members to ensure that they vote according to the official party policy. A whip’s role is also to ensure that the elected representatives

of their party are in attendance when important votes are taken.” In the House, Gbajabiamila held sway because of his stance against mismanagement, poor leadership and political immaturity. He vehemently kicked against the defection from one party to another, hammering on the need for Nigerian politicians to have and hold onto a set of political beliefs, ideology and philosophy. Gbajabiamila pretty much summed himself up in his book: “Fearless: the Emergence Of A Virile And Formidable Opposition Leader (Political Memoirs of Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila) preparing himself for the big stage, only that, this time he will go from opposition leader to the leader of the ruling party, a position he has prepared himself for and one that has waited for him. His panache and zest as Minority Whip leader was contagious and staggering. His colleagues always listened when he spoke. His oratorial prowess and his ability to convey his messages in the best possible fashion made him an item in every gathering. As Minority Whip leader, he

pushed Nigeria and Nigerians. He pushed the ruling party, he pushed his colleagues in the opposition but above all he pushed himself even beyond his own comprehension. Why should he be the 8th Speaker of the House of Representative? As head of the ad hoc committee investigating claims by the Asset Management Company of Nigeria, AMCON that 140.9 billion naira, which was owed by Zenon Petroleum and Gas Limited and Forte Oil Plc, has been paid, Gbajabiamila did a thorough job ensuring that the House also passed Money Laundering and Terrorism Amendment Bills. That’s why Asiwaju BolaTinubu, a national leader of the All Progressives Congress described Gbajabiamila as “an inspiration to many of the members of the House of Representatives today who are working tirelessly to see Nigeria chart a new course and are very so committed to changes, content of the character of the country, adding a great value and commitment to national development and progress of this country”. Gbajabiamila is not one who shies away from his responsibilities and actions as a leader. To preserve the democracy of Nigeria, he was once forced to scale the gate of the House of Representatives. On his Facebook page, he wrote of his action: “What happened in the National Assembly yesterday will forever live in infamy. Never thought I would see the day when I would be forced to go over the assembly gates where I work to gain access into the chambers.”

Why PDP lost Benue, by stakeholders

FTER ruling Benue State for 16 years, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) was in a good position to win the April 11 governorship elections. But, Governor Gabriel Suswam handed the state over to All Progressives Congress (APC) during the election. What really went wrong? In the view of observers, the PDP shot itself in the foot when during the primaries it handed over its governorship ticket to an inexperienced politician. This was coupled with myriad of problems that confronted the Benue chapter of the party, prior to the general elections. The problems include from the non-payment of salaries, which had accu-

•From left: Senators-elect Biodun Olujimi; Monsurat Sunmonu and Jonah Jang, at an induction on legislative studies for new lawmakers in Abuja..yesterday.

From Uja Emmanuel, Makurdi

mulated for about six months as at the time of the elections. Pensioners were also being owed arrears of their entitlements, and teachers were also aggrieved over the non-implementation of the national minimum wage policy. In fact, the teachers were on strike at the time. Local government workers are not left out; they have been at loggerheads with the government over complaints about heavy deduction from their monthly salaries. The explanation by the Suswamled administration that it was as a result of the reduction in allocations from the Federation Account, due to the slump in oil prices, fell on the deaf ears. The aggrieved workers left no one in doubt that they were going to extract their pound of fresh from the ruling party during the election. Apart from the issue of salary which contributed to the defeat, another factor that worked against the party was political patronage. Most elders in the party were aggrieved that the governor had abandoned them, by leaning on a new generation of politicians like John Tondo,Bob Tyough, Bernard Nenge, Chris Aba and Terseer Adzuu. But, one of the factors that led to the fall of the PDP was the emergence Hon. Terhemen Tarzoor, a young and inexperienced candidate. About 18 aspirants jostled for the ticket. They include: Chief Samuel Ortom (now Governor-elect on the platform of the APC), Chief Mike Aondoakaa, Eugene Aliegba, Alex Adum Hinga Biem and Tivlumun

Nyitse. Sure of them were members Governor Suswam’s cabinet, either as commissioners or permanent secretaries. Most of them sought and got the blessing of the governor before they resigned to join the governorship race. That implied an assurance from the governor that he would support each of them. However, ahead of the primaries approached, another dimension was introduced into the campaign. “It was rumoured that the wife of President Goodluck Jonathan, Dame Patience, anointed Hon. Tarzor to succeed Suswam and this generated tension among the aspirants and PDP members generally,” a source said. They vowed to resist the attempt by an outsider to impose a candidate on the people of Benue State. When Tarzoor finally emerged as the PDP governorship candidate, there was a huge crack within the ranks of the party, as no less than 12 aggrieved governorship aspirants worked against him at the general election. “The ruling PDP in Benue went into both the presidential and National Assembly elections and the governorship and state House of Assembly elections as a divided house; their supporters worked against the party’s interest and it was obvious that defeat loomed for the party,” the source added. After Gen. Muhammadu Buhari was declared winner of the presidential election, Chief Barnabas Gemade defeated Suswam and the Senate Minority Leader George Akume won his re-election. It was too late to do something to stop the looming defeat at the governorship poll.

THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 28, 2015

PROPERTY/ENVIRONMENT Architects hold conference May 6u

HE Association of Estate Agents of Nigeria (AEAN) has been urged to caution its members against misconduct. It also urged agents to imbibe ethics and operate according to the laws of the Estate Surveyors and Valuers Board of Nigeria (ESVARBON). Chairman, ESVARBON, Mr. William Odudu, gave the advice at the first yearly conference of AEAN in Lagos. It had as theme “The public perception of estate agency practice in Nigeria”. According to Odudu, the conference, was timely considering that the practice of estate agency by estate agents, estate brokers, property companies, home finders, among others, had been haphazard and fraught with all shades of unethical conducts and unhealthy rivalries. “Estate agency business became an open field for the floatsan and jetsam of the society with poor public esteem,” Odudu said. He said ESVARBON can penalise any erring estate agent who fails to comply with its regulations. Besides, he said, the body would produce a register of estate agents or companies. To check estate agents, he said registered estate agents are expected to attend Mandatory Continuing Professional Development (MCPD) workshops, training, seminars and conferences. This is to enable them develop and maintain capabilities to perform competently within a professional environment. To this end, credit points will now be awarded to operators for attendance and participation in approved MCPD, as this will form part of the prerequisites for the yearly renewal of licence for registered estate agents. “The business of estate agency is no more business as usual. Today’s annual general conference carries three points and you require about 20 points to qualify for an-

•From left: Principal Partner, Unigwe and Co., Mr. Azuidike Unigwe; Managing Director, Verdant Zeal, Mr. Tunji Olugbodi; First Vice-President, Nigeria Institute of Estate Surveyors and Valuers (NIESV), Mr. Bolarinde Patunola-Ajayi; AGM, Real Estate Transaction Department, Lagos State, Mrs. Linda Patunola-Ajayi; Odudu; Registrar, ESVARBON, Mr. Thomas Audu, and others at the AEAN First yearly conference in Lagos.

Surveyors caution agents on misconduct Stories by Muyiwa Lucas

nual licence renewal,” Odudu explained. Similarly, the Chairman, Conference Planning Committee, Mr. Boye Ajayi, noted that in the last one year, members of have undergone series of training programs, workshops and seminars. Ajayi said the attention being directed at estate agency practice had raised the hope that issues of

regulation and control of the sector were receiving attention. Specifically, he noted quackery as serious. “It is as serious as fake drugs! Most times, we have read in the newspapers the incidence of fake agents who made away with their clients’ funds,” he said, adding that the conference had helped to focus on re-inventing and re-positioning the estate agent towards achieving global best practices.

‘It is as serious as fake drugs! Most times, we have read in the newspapers the incidence of fake agents who made away with their clients’ funds... The business of estate agency is no more business as usual’

•From left: Senior Special Assistant on Housing to Lagos State Governor, Michael Akindele; Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Housing, Odunlami Olatunji handing over keys to beneficiaries.

Lagos hands over rebuilt block

T was joy galore for owners of Block 6, in Progressive Es tate, Iponri, Lagos, when the Lagos State government handed over a brand new house to them. The old edifice was dilapidated and had to be pulled down. The new building, a block of three-bedroom, six flats, was rebuilt by the Governor Babatunde Fashola administration and haned to the owners free. The old structure, built during the administration of former governor of the state, Alhaji Lateef Jakande, under the administration’s low cost hous-

ing scheme, had defects. According to the owners, the handing over of the new building ended a tortuous journey of 27 years. Recounting their experience, the owners said they sent their first complaints about the defects in 1988, via a letter to the General Manager of the Lagos Building Investment Company Limited (LBIC). Ten years later, another letter was sent to the then Military Administrator of the state, Col. Buba Marwa; this was followed by another letter in September

1998. But a glimmer of hope appeared on the horizon when on July 21, 2007, a letter they sent to Fashola was acknowledged. “The governor (Fashola) acted promptly by sending our file to the Commissioner of Physical Planning for investigation and inspection of the building. From that time, the administration never left our matter; and the result is what you are all seeing today,” the allotees said. They expressed appreciation to those who assisted in making their dream a reality.

RCHITECTS will con verge from May 6-9, this year on the Eko Hotel & Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos to fashion out modalities for growth. The event, held by the Nigerian Institute of Architecture (NIA), Lagos State Chapter, has as theme: Lagos 6.0 – The business of architecture. Chairman, Lagos NIA, Mr. Ladipo Lewis, said this year’s theme is aimed at discussing key issues and exposing the participants to methodologies and strategies that can be deployed in setting up and running an efficient architectural practice; types of partnerships architects can go into; design and build in the construction industry; office management; joint ventures; marketing of architectural services; winning local and international architectural competitions; architectural practice in foreign countries. It will also expose them to learning being a sole practitioner as an architect, including the new trends in architectural practice, among others. To this end, experts in the Business of Architecture from across the country and the world over have been shortlisted to share their breakthrough ideas and wealth of experience with the

participants. The rapporteurs include Mr. Femi Falana (SAN), Paolo Zilli, Theodore Liebman, Ade Yusuf, O.P.A Ladega, Ibare Akinsan, Tayo Babalakin, Arc. Roti Delano, Olawunmi Agbaje and a host of others. The group’s Public Relations Officer, Samson Akinyosoye, said the forum would also provide the participants the opportunity to network with developers, architects and key players in the industry. He further said it would position architects to understand the economic climate, learn about best practices in sustainable development, get leads to developing quality business models, network with key players in the built environment and position their business for the new wave of development opportunities and technology available, and discover innovative methods of development within the current economic climates These include product launches, display of products and services, exhibition of architects works, workshops, seminars, advertisement, partnership opportunities, post-conference site tours and others. A communiqué will be issued at the end of the three-day event.

Accra, Cape Town, Dakar, others for African Mayor Awards

HE organisers of the Second Africa Urban Infrastructure Investment Forum (AUIIF) have shortlisted entries for the inaugural African Mayor Awards. The awards, which showcases excellence in urban development, will take place in Luanda on Friday. Ana Cândido and Audrey Mpunzwana, said in the ‘Large Metropolis’ category, with one million residents or more, Accra, Ghana; Cape Town, South Africa and Dakar, Senegal were shortlisted. In the intermediate, or mediumsized cities category, localities with less than one million and more than 200,000 residents, Kinondoni, Tanzania; Asunafo, Ghana and Bissau, Guinea-Bissau were selected. In the small cities category, for cities with up to 200,000 residents, Arua, Uganda; Bangangte, Cameroon and Praia, Cape Verde made the shortlist. The finalists were selected by a panel, which includes Jean Pierre Elong Mbassi, General-Secretary of United Cities and Local Governments-Africa (UCLG-A), Tokunbo Omisore, Chairman of the African Union of Architects, Aisa Kirabo Kacyira, Assistant Secretary-General and Deputy Executive Director for UN-Habitat, Vitor Leonel Miguel, Chairman of the Angolan Architects Union and Gaetan Siew, Chair, Construction Industry Sector of Mauritius. They are held with the Second Africa Urban Infrastructure Investment Forum (AUIIF) which discussed post-conflict reconstruction and turning African cities into economic power houses. Pedro Pires, former president, Cape Verde and Mo Ibrahim laureate will deliver the Keynote Address at the Forum. Under Pires’ leadership, the capital city of the island state grew and expanded, with investment in urban infrastructure, supported by appropriate housing designed to manage the transition from rural to city life. Examples of such innovation and transformational development will be among the themes

By Bola Olajuwon

of the second AUIIF, which seeks to propose the concrete steps to be taken to maximise the effectiveness of urban infrastructure development, from finance through design to implementation. The forum will be incorporated in the programme of the Seventh Edition of the Africities summit in December, this year, in Johannesburg, South Africa. Publisher of African Business magazine Omar Ben Yedder, who are organisers, said he was impressed with the calibre of conference speakers. He said: “Urbanisation is the development challenge of the next 20 years. Functioning cities create wealth. Unless we plan and think properly about what the future will look like and where our cities fit into this future, we will face immense problems and any retroactive action will prove costly and ineffective. The cities shortlisted today are being led by people who understand this and who are making great strides in creating livable cities that are creating wealth. He added: “We are also delighted to have so many dignitaries with us this year which shows that policy makers are taking this issue very seriously, starting with our hosts the government of Angola.”

•Angolan President, Jose Eduardo dos Santos

TUESDAY, APRIL 28, 2015

THE NATION

BUSINESS ENERGY

E-mail:- energy@thenationonlineng.net

The oil, gas and power sectors are critical to the economy. But, over the years, they have not been doing well. Some of their problems are oil theft, pipeline vandalism, oil reserves depletion, dwindling production and inadequate gas supply to thermal power plants. Experts would like President-elect, Munhammadu Buhari to address these challenges, write EMEKA UGWUANYI & AKINOLA AJIBADE.

Task before Buhari on power, oil and gas T

HE oil and gas industry is Nigeria’s foreign exchange earner. Anything that affects the industry negatively often has serious impact on the country’s revenue. Also, all over the world, electricity drives economic and industrial activities. But, in the past few decades, successive administrations have not been able to fix the power problem. Will the incoming Buhari administration get it right to meet the people’s expectations?

Oil, gas exploration and production The government has been aspiring to attain reserves of 40 billion barrels and four million. It slated 2010 to achieve these targets, but, unfortunately, rather than growing on what has been achieved earlier, there has been decline. Oil reserves has fallen over 38 billion barrels to less than 37 billion barrels while production has also dropped from 2.5 million barrels per day (mbpd) to 2.1 million bpd. Aside the challenges of oil theft and pipeline vandalism commonly known to be the cause of these setbacks and which the government always blame, the issue of undue lengthy contracting cycle makes operations in Nigeria expensive by altering the initial project budget and delivery schedule. In other oil producing countries, the period between tender for a job and commencement of work on the project, doesn’t exceed six months, but in Nigeria, it takes between two and three years often leading to upward reviews of tenders at the end of the day. For instance, the Group Chief Executive, Oando Plc, Wale Tinubu, at a global oil and gas forum in Abuja, stressed the need for the government to put in place attractive fiscal policies and incentives. He also urged the government to ensure that good governance and transparency are entrenched, tackle insecurity, find alternative to Joint Venture (JV) funding, reduce or eliminate the

bureaucratic bottleneck that exist in contracting cycle, improve infrastructure and give support where and when necessary to operators. The President, Nigerian Association of Petroleum Explorationists (NAPE), Chinwendu Edoziem, also expressed concern over the declining oil reserves and the need for the government to put in place policy that would encourage aggressive exploration to make new oil discoveries boost reserves and production. According to the operators, no major exploration has taken place in the country between the last five and six years, which is not good for an oil producing country, such as Nigeria. Corruption is another major setback. The sector is riddled with corruption. The allegation of missing $20billion in which the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) was fingered has not fully been resolved despite the PricewaterhouseCoopers forensic audit report. There are instances where government officials allegedly connive with foreign companies to inflate the cost of contracts for projects to get ‘kick-backs.’ In the downstream, some marketers were alleged to make claims for petroleum products not imported and sometimes full claims for importations that are far less than their claims. A Professor of Energy Economics and President, Association of International Energy Economics (AIEE), Wunmi Iledare, said the country deserves a more transparent oil and gas industry especially the NNPC, which is the national oil company. He said the new government must put in place an accounting process would make the NNPC more transparent. Iledare said the sector should be re-jigged to pave way for meaningful developments, adding that the only way to do that is to make people accountable for money spent in all oil and gas contracts. He said the national economy is largely dependent on oil and gas

and as such, the nation cannot afford to toy with its major source of income. He said the country must put in place policies that are driven by sense of honesty and commitment before it can fully realise its oil potential. He said: “The administration of the NNPC and other oil firms must be structured in such a way that there would be transparency and accountability. People must be made to be accountable for anything they do. Accountability here means that people or institutions in the oil and gas must be answerable for decision taken, especially when it comes to fiscal issues. The Board of the NNPC must not be personalised. Emphasis must be placed on achieving the collective goals of the industry and not on individuals that are seeking for their own needs. By this, the institutional strength should be recognised and not the personal empowerment of people at the helm of affairs of petroleum agencies.” Iledare said accountability and transparency must follow a topdown structure to enable the government know how every kobo is spent for activities, such as the implementation of contracts and other activities needed to move the industry forward. He said nothing must be shrouded in secrecy among the highest and lowest cadre of workers in the Petroleum Ministry and its agencies. This would help the industry attain its potentials and further enable the government to get the values required for growth, he said. “Given the fact that the nation’s revenue is fast depleting amid crisis in the global oil market, there should be a conscious effort on the part of the Federal Government to double crude oil production. To achieve this, the government must take proactive measures to tackle problems such as pipeline vandalism, crude oil theft and others. “When local oil production improves activities in the sector and the economy would follow similar trend,” he added. He said the government and pri-

•From left: Business Leader, Sahara Power, Rotimi Onanuga; Energy Project Manager, French Agency Development, Maitane Concellon; Managing Director/CEO, Ikeja Electric, Abiodun Ajifowobaje; and Deputy Country Director, French Agency Development, Mr. Hugo Pierrel, during a visit to the headquarters of Ikeja Electric Distribution Plc in Lagos.

•Buhari vate operators should try and improve production of oil, advising oil companies to step up exploration. Iledare advised Buhari to provide policies that would pave way for more activities in the industry. As a result of crude oil theft, Nigeria has lost over $10 billion in the past years. Though the Chairman, Presidential Committee on Oil Theft Proliferation and Control, Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan of Delta State said the level of stolen crude oil has declined by 50 per cent to about 50,000 barrels from the initial 100,000 bpd when the activities of the thieves were at peak, many operators believe that it is higher than 50,000 bpd. At the peak of oil theft in 2012, the Minister of Petroleum Resources, Mrs. Diezani AlisonMadueke said Nigeria loses about $7billion yearly to crude oil theft at the rate of 180,000 bpd, adding that another $5 billion was spent on repairs of vandalised pipelines in one year. To stem the tide, a new industry joint task force (JTF) was set up. The task force comprises the Police and the Armed Forces, in collaboration with the Ministry of Petroleum Resources, NNPC, as well as multinationals and indigenous operators. Therefore, crude oil theft and pipeline vandalism is a major problem that require due attention from the incoming government. The Commander, Joint Task Force (JTF), Maj.-Gen. Emmanuel Atewe, said oil theft and pipeline vandalism are problems for the government. He urged the government to tackle these problems. He said sustained and committed campaign against oil theft and pipeline vandalism is what is needed to eradicate the problem. He said the fight against crude oil theft is an on-going activity, advising incoming governments to give it the desired attention to encourage the growth of the industry. Atewe said: “Besides, the government should develop the Niger Delta region by providing infrastructure such as hospitals, schools, and other facilities that would make life conducive for its residents. Job creation is another area which the government must look into to keep the residents busy and discourage them from taking arms, breaking pipelines among other criminal activities. Though JTF is organising health

programmes through which it provides treatments to communities in the Niger Delta region, the people need functional hospitals. The passage of the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB) is another area the incoming government should concentrate energy on. Operators, including Iledare, urged the National Assembly to expedite action on the passage of the bill into law. They said the PIB would enthrone transparency and accountability. The non-passage of the bill has stalled a lot of activities in exploration and production as well as in oil service segment. The President, Petroleum Technology Association of Nigeria (PETAN), Emeke Ene, said local operators needed a vantage position to participate in the industry, adding that this will help to stimulate growth. He said the Local Content Act has provided opportunities for domestic operators to develop. He urged the in-coming government to continue to create a conducive atmosphere for businesses in the sector. Ene said oil producing communities are by law entitled to get certain fiscal benefits from the government. The benefits, he said, must be promptly paid to those communities to ensure seamless oil exploration activities in the Niger Delta region. The President, National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas workers (NUPENG), Igwe Achese, urged the government to eradicate issues associated with importation of petroleum products totally by deregulating the downstream. He said this can only be achieved by reviving the nation’s refineries, while at the same time building new ones. He said the issue of workers’ interest in the industry must be protected by the government to prevent a repeat of industrial actions which paralysed activities in the industry in recent past. “The oil and gas sector can only reclaim its lost glory when concrete efforts were made by the government to revive the four refineries which have a combined capacity to refine 450,000 bpd, build new ones, create avenues for the resumption of exploration activities, check crude oil theft and others,” he said. The President, Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, said: “Nigeria must increase its local processing and consumption. This has been a goal of the Nigerian government for many years. But progress has been impeded by lack of investment in the downstream petroleum sector as well as a very outdated policy and regulatory environment for the oil and gas sector. The much anticipated and long awaited Petroleum Industry Bill needs to be passed as it affects the source of the bulk of national foreign exchange earnings. This is critical to the transformation of the sector and its repositioning to play an effective role in the new economy. The removal of Petroleum Fuel Subsidy is also critical because it benefits the more affluent, which is small minority of the •Continued on page 19

THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 28, 2015

ENERGY

Hike in electricity tariff likely Conoil set to play big in N250b lube market C this week D ESPITE poor power supply nationwide, the Federal Government may increase electricity tariff this week, it has been learnt. Sources told The Nation that the National Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has given the electricity distribution companies (DISCOs) notice of the increase. But, it, according to the source, has not given them details of the planned hike. The commission wanted to increase tariff last December but because of Christmas, it was postponed to January. It later announced a 50 per cent reduction which Nigerians saw in political gimmick for the March 28 presidential election. Last month, NERC said most residential consumers in the R1 and R2 categories did not experience any increase in tariff when rates were raised on January 1. It said the increase only affected industrial, commercial and highend residential consumers, stressing that most people in the R1 and R2 categories would begin to pay increased tariff from July 1 this year. The Commission also announced the reduction in tariff by

By Emeka Ugwuanyi

50 per cent, following what it called “bombardment of complaints” from customers who decried the increase that was announced earlier this year. According to NERC Chairman, Dr. Sam Amadi, the reduction was in line with the commission’s business rules after considering the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) protest on the implication of the January 1 hike. He said NERC took the action because merit in the argument put forward by MAN that the increase would affect their businesses. Investors in the power sector have been calling for upward review of electricity tariff to match the cost of output and also help them (investors) recoup their investment fast. According them, revenue collections from the consumers are far much lower than the investors expected pre-asset handover. The poor collection, the investors added, is also worsened by the technical and commercial losses, which are greater

than the assumptions given by the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE) before the assets were handed over to them. The Multi-Year Tariff Order (MYTO) provides a 15-year tariff path for the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI). The MYTO methodology sets out the basis and pricing principles by which the tariff of various categories of consumers are fixed or determined. It also determines load allocation to various electricity distribution companies, the closest value chain to consumers. The MYTO usually have major review every five years but every June, a minor review is carried out by NERC. The review is determined by market fundamentals. The residential customers’ tariff, especially R1 and R2 under MYTO, are subsidised by about 50 per cent by the government because they are categorised as customers with very low incomes. Their consumption, however, is subsidised with charges from other classes of customers, according to MYTO provision. However, the planned increase in tariff is coming at a very wrong period because power supply across the country is at its worst.

ONOIL Plc has unveiled plans to play big in the nation’s lubricant market which is projected to hit the N250 billion mark by the end of this year. The projected high revenue from lubricant business is predicated on the expected upsurge in the demand for lubricants by the automobile and industrial sub-sectors of the economy. According to a statement, the company will invest over N5 billion in building a new lubricant manufacturing plant and filling lines, in addition to big lubricant plant in Apapa, Lagos, to significantly increase its engine oil production capacity. This will put the company in good stead to take huge advantage of the projected growth in the domestic lubricant market and invariably skyrocket its lubricant contribution to its overall turnover. The substantial increase in lubricant production, Conoil said, is projected to boost the company’s bottom-line while also increasing significantly its industry share in the lubricant segment. Conoil ranks as one of the nation’s topmost marketers of quality lubricants with a reputation for reliability and unsurpassed performance. Its popular lubricant brands of Quatro and Golden Super Motor oil hold top positions in the market and are adjudged the brand of choice. The company also has wide range of industrial lubricants for

applications in manufacturing, textile, cement, breweries, oil exploration and producing companies, and transmission oils for the transmission and gear system of vehicles. With a total consumption of 600 million litres, according to industry sources, which amounted to one percent of the world’s total demand, Nigeria ranked as the third largest consumer of lubricating oils with gross earnings of N150 billion in 2013. Notwithstanding the huge potential and contributions of the lubricant business to the growth of the nation’s economy, the market is threatened by the importation of sub-standard and offspec finished lubricants from the Far East. The Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR) and industry stakeholders have expressed concern that the local lubricant market has become a dumping ground for substandard and off-specifications imported engine oil. The DPR raised the alarm over the negative environmental and economic impact of the quasi-lubricant substances. Lubricants are technology-driven products with value-addition to base oil, one of the refined byproducts. They are necessary products to guarantee energysavings, cost-effective and maintenance of plant and machinery in industry to sustain the nation’s industrial growth and economy in general.

Seven Energy begins supply to Calabar NIPP

•From left: Chief Executive Officer, SEPLAT, Austin Avuru; Deputy Managing Director, FBN Capital, Taiwo Okeowo; and Chief Finance Officer, SEPLAT, Roger Brown at the signing ceremony of the $700 million for SEPLAT in Lagos.

•Continued from page 18 population.” Nigeria’s inability to monetise its enormous natural gas resources is a major challenge. Gas he said, has great potential to accelerate economic growth adding that the huge deficit in our energy consumption, especially electricity, which has constrained our economic growth can be easily eliminated if gas is fully utilised. The key is to adopt a pricing regime for gas that will encourage investment in gas infrastructure, he added. On the government’s support to local content development, Wale Tinubu, the Managing Director/ Chief Executive Officer of FIRST Exploration & Petroleum Development Company Limited, Mr. Ademola Adeyemi-Bero and the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of Waltersmith Petroman Oil Limited, Mr. Abdulrazaq Isa, urged the government to persuade international oil companies (IOCs) to divest idle or low producing oil fields in their possession to local firms to increase local companies’ oil production and reserves.

Power sector

Challenges before Buhari The major problem of power supply is lack of diversification of sources of supply. The dependence on gas-fired power plants is a setback because when a major gas supply pipeline is vandalised, the country is thrown into darkness. Therefore, besides linking the thermal power stations with pipelines that will supply gas to them, government should also look at generating power from coal, solar, wind and building more hydro power stations and also reinforc-

ing the transmission segment of the power supply value chain. The transmission network is very weak and unable to wheel 3,000megawatts (Mw) of electricity efficiently. There is also need to legislate on power theft, vandalism of power equipment and facilities, so that such vandals and thieves are appropriately punished to deter others. Enthroning the right electricity tariff and ensuring adequate gas supply will boost growth of the power industry, the experts said.

EVEN Energy International Limited has started supplying gas to the 560 megawatts (MW) Calabar National Integrated Power Project (NIPP). The commercial delivery of gas to Calabar NIPP started in March, this year, and is being executed through Accugas, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Seven Energy. When operating at full capacity, Calabar NIPP will increase national power generation by over 10 per cent. According to the company, gas is being supplied to the power plant from Seven Energy’s Uquo Gas Processing Facility in Akwa Ibom State through the Seven Energy pipeline network. The gas supply will enable the power plant to complete commissioning and start the delivering electricity to the national grid. The Chief Executive Officer, Seven Energy, Phillip Ihenacho, said: “Delivering a cost-effective and reliable gas supply is critical to providing sustainable power supply into the national grid to meet the government’s reform objectives and to facilitate industrial development. I am delighted that our ability to deliver an indigenous gas solution, from end to end is now being recognised by a broad range of industrial and power sector customers. Not only will the gas we supply drive en-

How non-producing marginal fields can be productive, by firm’s chief

HE Chief Executive Officer Eunisell Solutions, an indigenous oil and gas service company, Mr. Dickson Okotie, has said there is hope for marginal fields that are yet to produce, in view of the imminent revocation of their licences. He told reporters at this year’s oil and gas awards in Lagos that such fields could still produce with the application of technology. He also noted that marginal field operators face many challenges ,including lack of

‘Nigerian Content Act has benefited oil drillers, others’

HE passage of the Nigerian Content Act has improved the operation of indigenous drilling operators, the President, International Association of Drilling Contractors (IADC), Nigerian Chapter, Mr. Sola Falodun, has said. He said the Act has made local operators in the oil and gas industry to play better and record good profit. “With the passage of the Act, drillers and other operators in the sector get more jobs. They finance

By Akinola Ajibade

big-ticket transactions, hitherto the preserve of the International Oil Companies (IOCs). The divestment of shares by the IOCs and the subsequent interest shown by independents or local operators to buy into their assets is a good omen to the industry. We hope the trend will continue in the sector,” he said. Falodun said the passage of the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB)would revolutionise the in-

hanced power generation, but when combined with improvements in transmission and distribution, it will also facilitate industrial and commercial developments which will have a far reaching impact throughout the community, stimulating industry and generating employment as a result.” The Managing Director, Accugas Steve Tierney, said: “The Calabar NIPP is a major power plant in Calabar and a further endorsement of the quality and reliability of our services. Our strong capability across the region with ownership of gas reserves and pipeline infrastructure has enabled us to commercialise our gas assets, delivering a solution that the market has been demanding for many years. We are ready and look forward to adding more customers to our network across the South East of Nigeria, bringing affordable and reliable gas to a wider audience.” Seven Energy has invested over $1 billion in the Southeast region of the Niger Delta in the last five years and since the commissioning of the Uquo Gas Processing Facility last year, the firm has also started the supply of gas to other off takers such as the Ibom Power Company, Notore Chemical Industries Limited and the United Cement Company of Nigeria, also in Calabar.

dustry because operators would adopt and adapt to new technologies and practices. He noted that crude oil theft, illegal bunkering, pipeline vandalism, and other unhealthy practices have slowed down exploration, adding that passing making relevant laws would position local operators for better performance. He said recouping investment on oil rigs is not easy, adding that with time the operators would overcome their challenges.

access to finance and technical competence which have prevented them from fully benefitting from the Local Content Act. He said: “We all know that licences which were awarded for marginal fields in 2003 have expired and those whose fields are yet to produce will be revoked soon, however, there’s still hope for those fields that are not producing yet because of the type of solution we bring to industry. We have proved to hold the technical competence to develop a field in 120 days as shown in the Qua Iboe marginal field. As soon as we are able to get all parties involved, we roll out our services which may also comprise financing of the entire facility from drilling to production, in the event of the operators inability to finance the project.” He said the company has delivered unique services to various clients in the industry over the years, including the building and financing of central processing facilities for indigenous major indigenous oil and gas producing companies to help local companies benefit from the Local Content Act.

THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 28, 2015

THE NATION

BUSINESS MARITIME

e-mail: maritime@thenationonlineng.net

Cabotage: Nigeria loses N1.8tr yearly to D foreign ship owners ESPITE the Cabotage Law, Nigeria is losing N1.8 trillion yearly to foreign shipowners in cargo haulage, it has been learnt. Under the law, coastal trade is reserved for indigenous shipowners; their foreign counterparts are allowed to participate in the business subject to a waiver by the Federal Government. To the Shipowners Association of Nigeria (SOAN), the law is not serving its purpose because the group’s members cannot handle cargoes that pass through the nation’s waterways. The group met in Lagos last week on how to engage the in-coming

Stories by Oluwakemi Dauda MaritimeCorrespondent

Muhammadu Buhari administration on involving its members in crude oil lifting. Sources close to the group said a vessel involved in offshore operations collects at least $5,000 daily. This, according to a source, is the least amount collected by foreign vessels on the nation’s waters. The country, he said, is losing $10 billion yearly to foreigners be-

cause of the government’s alleged failure to engage indigenous ship chandlers; and also losing N45 billion yearly due to the preference given to foreign ship owners and their choice of insurers over the indigenous companies in the lifting and importation of fuel. The Federal Government, a source said, loses over N3.5 billion monthly in freight insurance, urging the in-coming administration to arrest the situation.

• Deputy Comptroller of Customs Biri inspecting the seized goods at the Government Warehouse in Lagos. PHOTO: OLUWAKEMI DAUDA

Customs seizes N105m goods concealed in train T

HE Monitoring Team of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) at Idiroko has intercepted a train from Kano, carrying assorted textile and other goods at the Abeokuta Railway Station in Ogun State. The team was led by the Deputy Comptroller of Customs, Yahaya Usman Biri. Sources told The Nation that the team had been on the trail of the consignment from Kano following a tip off that the items came from unapproved routes to the train sta-

tion. The items evacuated from the two coaches included 27 bales of blanket, 141 long bales of ankara materials, 49 cartons of choc balls, two gallons of vegetable oil, four bags of 40kg parboiled rice, three small sacks of printed textile materials, one carton of bonny cream milk, one sack of detergent and 159 small sacks of textile materials.

The items have been transferred to the government warehouse in Ikeja. The team has begun investigation to establish the source of the consignment. The team said it succeeded because of the support of Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC) Alhaji Dikko Abdullahi. The team had made a similar seizure at Iddo Train Terminus in Lagos with the collaboration of the Federal Operation Unit (FOU) Zone ‘A’ officers.

Buhari urged to review policy

HE Free-on-Board (FoB) policy is causing the country a huge loss, the President, Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA), Alhaji Olayiwola Shittu, has said. He wants the in-coming Muhammadu Buhari’s administration to review the policy. FoB is a trade policy that allows a buyer to pay for the shipment and landing costs of the goods from the port of origin. Shittu urged the President Goodluck Jonathan administration to adopt Cost, Insurance and Freight (CIF) for the lifting of crude oil. CIF, he said, gives the seller the right to arrange for the ferrying of goods by sea to a port of destination, and provide the buyer with the documents necessary to collect them from the carrier. Shittu said a major part of the problems faced by indigenous owners was due to the failure to enforce the

Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety (NIMASA) Act, 2007, eight years after its enactment. He said Nigeria is the only country that is still using the FoB policy. A member of the group, Mr Segun Ogunsanu, said the indigenous shipping firms have over the years been grappling with lack of cargo support, adding that this had made many of them to close shop, a development which led to unemployment years after the enactment of the act and other legislations, such as the Cabotage Act, 2003 and Nigerian Content Act 2010. “The policy is being used to the detriment of the economy,” he said. Ogunsanu said the adoption of either the CIF or FoB policy by the Federal Government should be based on how the policy is of advantage to the parties involved

A senior Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) official, who pleaded not to be named, said the amount foreign ship owners pay to the agency and others is meagre compared to what they repatriate. He put the Federal Government’s loss at over N1.8 trillion yearly, wondering why the loopholes were not plugged by the out-going administration. Indigenous insurance companies, he said, were sidelined in the insurance of imported fuel both locally and internationally “The sorry situation we find our country as a maritime nation is ridiculous and in absolute contravention of the Local Content Act. “For instance, Nigerian ship chandlers are supposed to be given 95 per cent of business opportunities in the ship chandelling industry and other opportunities to render services in the ships. The in-coming administration needs to ensure that the local content Act is wholly implemented in order to create jobs for Nigerians in the maritime, oil and gas sectors effectively. “The participation of multinational companies in ship chadling has rendered many Nigerians jobless and the Buhari led government must correct these anomalies. “When the Cabotage regime came on stream, the intention was mainly to stimulate the development of indigenous capacity in the Nigerian maritime industry.But many years after, the situation remains the same despite the despite the efforts by NIMASA. “In the oil and gas industry, Nigeria has close to 500 oil wells. For each well, there is a rig, which is supported by a minimum of five ships, and they are called oil support vessels. Each of the foreign ships earn $5,000, while others earn $150,000 per day. “The Cabotage Act seeks to reserve domestic coastal trade or Cabotage trade within Nigerian coastal and inland waters to vessels built and registered in the country, wholly owned and manned by Nigerian citizens. Foreign-owned vessels and companies are, however, allowed to participate in Cabotage trade within Nigerian waters, subject to obtaining a waiver and or license from the Federal Ministry of Transport. “Almost 10 years, not much has changed, as the indigenous vessel owners, who the law was designed to protect remained sidelined and impoverished while foreign shipping companies dominate the trade and the Federal Government not looking responsive. “I can say conveniently that even

in the crude oil carriage that they do today, if SOAN, ISAN is allowed to do 60 per cent of their own allocation, they will be putting back more than about N1.5trillion or N1.8 trillion into the economy and that is almost half of the budget. What is the budget? It is N4 trillion or something above that. If the ship owners contribute N1.5 trillion or more into it, the multiplier effect of it would be seen in our economy and the job it would create. Speaking at the inauguration of SOAN in Lagos last week NIMASA’s former Director-General Mr Temisan Omatseye said there was no magic to end foreign domination apart from clear cut vision, good policy and implementation and demonstration of enough political will by those in government. “With the poor state of our economy, I think it would be suicidal for us to continue to engage foreigners to lift our crude. The government must ensure that every dollar we pay for the carriage of our oil comes into the economy. “I am very sure that by the time we put the naughty issue before the government it would be ready to engage indigenous ship owners. “We are businessmen and we won’t ask government for money but tell them how to open up the industry,” he said. Omatseye also bemoaned several millions of dollars the country is losing to foreign ship owners and urged the government to end the problem with good policy formulation. SOAN’s President, Mr Greg Ogbeifun, promised that the group would promote the interest of Nigerian-owned vessels and also provide a forum for dialogue among indigenous ship owners. “SOAN comprise ship owning companies with proven track records of activities in the industry recognised by upstream and downstream sectors of the shipping industry as well as by the private and public sectors of the industry. Ogbeifun, who is also the Chief Executive Officer of Starz Group, said SOAN was set up to facilitate participation of Nigerian shipowners in international fora on shipping matters through effective representation “To cultivate and maintain good relations with the government and maritime authorities by contributing expertise in formulating policies and regulations on national and maritime activities. “We won’t set agenda for the new government but will only set a road map for them. We are not a pressure group but a group of businessmen with proven track record,” he said.

Five Customs officers in trouble over ‘shady’ clearance • Shittu

in the shipping. The intention of the Cabotage Act, he added, was to give indigenous shipping firms the support to enable them to compete with their foreign counterparts, who have usurped the cargoes on the international shipping route and the coastal and inland region.

IVE senior Customs officers at the Tin-Can Island Port, Lagos, have been queried for alleged dereliction of duty. They have been invited to the Federal Operations Unit (FOU) in Ikeja, Lagos to explain why they released a 20-foot container carrying goods not declared in the Bill of Lading. Sources said the officers had been ordered to go to the FOU before moving to Abuja to face a discipli-

nary panel. A source said: “The container was released by senior Customs officials at Tin-Can port but FOU officers intercepted the container, following a tip-off. “Some of the items in the container include a vehicle, tiles and over 300 cartoons of items that were not declared by the importer.” FOU’s Public Relations Officer Uche Ejesim confirmed the seizures. He did not give details.

TUESDAY, APRIL 28, 2015

THE NATION

BUSINESS TRANSPORTATION

E-mail: ynotaderibigbe@gmail.com

Workers, passengers get security tips on trains H

OW can workers, passengers and others be safe on long distance trains? It is by remaining vigilant to forestall security threats, say experts, top Department of State Security (DSS) officials and police chiefs at a workshop on security consciousness and awareness for railway workers and users in Southwest. At the training held at the Nigerian Railway Corporation Training Institute (NRCTI) in Yaba, Lagos, last Wednesday, Permanent Secretary, Special Services Office (SSO) in the Presidency Dr. Habiba Lawal, said all hands must be on deck to fight insurgency. Mrs Lawal, represented by the Director in the SSO, Alhaji Abdullahi Shehu, said the workshop was organised to ensure that passengers and Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) workers are security conscious always. The workshop, which began last year, Shehu said, was the seventh in the series. Similar ones were earlier held in Bauchi for Northeast, Jos for Northcentral, Uyo, the Akwa-Ibom State capital, for the Southsouth, Enugu State for Southeast and Ibadan for Southwest. Shehu said members of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), transport owners, employers, students, media, market men and women, railway workers and other users of the railway have been taught the security precautions to take on the train. Shehu said the training is part of the initiative drawn up by the office of the National Security Adviser (NSA) to make security on inter-state train shuttle a collective responsibility. He said: “The workshop is meant to protect all railway stakeholders, as insecurity is no longer a joking matter. Security can no longer be left in the hands of government. It is your personal responsibility. There are a lot of things we see as

•From left: Mrs Omotayo; Mr. Alli, Shehu and Director Department of Special Services, Kaze Delson during the workshop.

Stories by Adeyinka Aderibigbe

we travel on the trains that are potential danger and these must be promptly reported to pre-empt them before they consume lives and property.” In his welcome address, NRC Managing Director Mr. Adeseyi Sijuwade said insurgents’ activities in some parts of the country made it imperative for the railway to retrain its workers and users to be security conscious to prevent tragedy on its network. Sijuwade represented by the Director of Operations, Mr Niyi Alli,

said as more people use the railway, it is becoming increasingly urgent for the corporation to arm passengers with the right skill anytime they are on the train, especially the long distance services. According to him, government’s aggressive intervention in the rail sector since 2011, led to the rehabilitation of rail lines; improvement of its rolling stock and reactivation of the Western and Eastern rail lines, which, with their active branch lines, have ensured that the country is now effectively covered by rail network. “Not only are we now carrying

passengers, we now freight agricultural produce and raw materials such as flours, wheat and cement from the Apapa quays to Kaduna/Kano, as well as carrying Automobile Gas Oil (AGO) Diesel and track materials for our operations nationwide,” Alli said. He said the NRC carried more than five million passengers and 200,000 metric tons of goods last year. “All these engender security risk and with the current spate of insecurity, we cannot leave our network unprotected. We need to protect our assets, our personnel

PHOTO: SOLOMON ADEOLA

and especially our customers,” Alli added. The training, which was facilitated by Mr Matthew Opoiro and Mr Nom Okechukwu, both of the DSS, Abuja, was attended by, among others, Mr Wale Abass, who represented the Commissioner of Police NRC Command, Deputy Director, DSS Office in The Presidency, Mr D. D. M Kazeem, Deputy Director, Administration and Human Resources, NRC Alhaja Monsurat Omotayo and Acting Deputy Director of Press and Public Relations Alhaji Abdulrauf Akinwoye.

Experts to Buhari: fix Apapa Ports traffic ‘headache’

HAT will gladden the hearts of transport experts the most is the fixing of the Apapa Ports traffic “headache” by the incoming Muhammadu Buhari administration. They are also seeking a national transportation policy, the absence of which they claim is turning traffic in the nation’s urban centres into nightmare. Leading the charge are Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT), national president Maj-Gen. Umar Tundunwada Usman, Deputy National President Prof. Kayode Oyesiku and Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) Managing Director Dunoma Saleh. They spoke at the induction of new members, fellows and corporate members in Ikoyi, Lagos last week. Usman, who is also International Vice President for Africa and Chairman, African Forum of Transportation, described the Apapa Ports situation as a national embarrassment. He blamed previous administrations for allowing the port to decay, that it

has become a major transportation headache for users and a disincentive to businesses and entrepreneurship. He called for a Marshal plan to tackle the gridlock, adding that the huge manhour lost daily has added to the high cost of living in the country and reduced government’s revenue generation capacity. Usman said: “I would strongly recommend that the incoming government addresses the issue of transportation which is at the heart of ensuring easier movement of people from one point to the other. There is the need for the government to put in place a transportation policy which if put in place, would make other pieces of our national life to fall in place. Roads are carrying what are by far above their carrying capacity. The railway has not improved on efficiency and this is resulting in the rate of damage to the roads. “Look at the ports, it is clearly inaccessible. It’s a shame that a country of the size of our economy does not have a world class port. We also need to work on the integration of all the transportation

modes. Without it, commuting whether passenger or freight would continue to be problematic and a nightmare.” Oyesiku blamed the state of infrastructure and lack of inter-modality of transportation modes for the sector’s crisis. He noted that there is no law to guide the industry and train professionals , blaming it on the National Assembly which has failed to pass its bill. “The lack of a regulating law has limited the capacity to engender the growth and professionalism of transportation and this has made transportation to be an all-comer affair. We are rated 127 in 146 countries of the world in logistics and transportation and we must be committed to correcting this poor rating, Oyesiku said, adding: “Though the plan was to have 80 percent of every 100 percent of products leaving the ports to be freighted by rail, this is being done by road as rail has become comatose and the government got it wrong by embarking on the rehabilitation of the narrow gauge rail lines. What is needed is not rehabilitation of the old existing infrastructure

but a major reconstruction of standard gauge rail lines, right from the ports. This is what would carry the weight of modern freights.” He said the gridlock at the ports and at Apapa has reduced by 50 percent the revenue generation capacity of the government. Saleh, represented by a director in his office, Mr Olufemi Ogunode, urged the government to do more on traffic planning for the nation’s cities and city centres because urbanisation is becoming overwhelming and stretching available facilities. He said: “As traffic congestion discourages movements into certain areas, so do businesses and economic growth that impact on peoples’ welfare are also being diverted from such locations, resulting in poor investment opportunities in the affected locations.” The increasing cost of doing business in Apapa, he said, is worrisome, noting that transaction is also becoming “very high.” The Registrar/CEO, Council for Regulation of Freight Forwarding in Nigeria (CRFFN), Sir Mike Jukwe, said: “Transport is

one of the greatest economic growth areas of the 20th Century and a key signature to the modern society.” Jukwe, who spoke on “The role of freight forwarding in the supply chain and national economy,” said freight forwarding is at the heart of international trade. Successful practitioners, Jukwe said, must be armed with better information, adding that they must recruit skilled labour to reduce loss. No fewer than 34 persons were conferred with fellows, 45, chartered members and 14 as corporate members. Also 55 graduands received the International Advanced Diploma certificate in Logistics and Transport and 61, the International Diploma Certificate. Some firms were awarded corporate membership in the Platinum, Gold, Silver and Bronze categories. Nahco Aviance, LAGBUS and Nigeria Ports Authority (NPA) among 13 others, got Platinum award, Associated Bus Company Plc (Gold), 1st Class Auto Centre Ltd (Silver), and DHL, among 10 others Bronze.

THE NATION TUESSDAY, APRIL 28, 2015

MONEYLINK N220b MSMEs fund: CBN targets 50% disbursement by year-end

HE Central Bank of Ni geria (CBN) is targeting 50 per cent disbursement of the N220 billion Micro, Small, and Medium Scale Enterprises (MSMEs) fund by year-end. Its Head, Relationship Management, MSME Development Finance Department, Tobin Jonathan who spoke at an MSME workshop in Lagos, said apex bank is jolted by low access to the fund by operators of the sector. He said the apex bank is particularly worried that since the fund was launched last August, only N40.3 billion has been disbursed to operators because of stringent conditions attached to accessing the

Stories by Collins Nweze

funds. He said: “As we speak, N40.3 billion has been disbursed to state governments, commercial banks, Micro Finance Banks, to Financial Co-operatives. We have disbursed to 19 state governments, some of them have taken first tranche of N1 billion.” He said complaints from the MSME operators suggested that the criteria were too strict and difficult to meet, hence the CBN Governor, Godwin Emefiele decided to relax the criteria across board to make the funds more accessible. He added that the CBN has also addressed all other com-

plaints raised by participating financial institutions including the spread of profit to cover their cost of operations. “So they can collect the forms at two per cent and give it out at five per cent. So they have seven per cent spread which is good enough. That has encouraged so many of them to begin to apply,” Jonathan said. Speaking, the Project Manager for Financial Infrastructure Project to the CBN, International Finance Corporation (IFC) and a resource person at the forum, Ubong Awah, said: “We are collaborating with the CBN to establish the National Collateral Registry which will be launched by

CITN appoints new registrar

•CBN Governor Godwin Emefiele June”. He said it is important as part of effort to stimulate financing to the MSME sector in Nigeria stressing that collateral registry will provide part of the infrastructure for pushing the initiative ahead.

FCMB Group posts N5.8b profit before tax

CMB Group Plc has posted a profit before tax (PBT) of N5.8 billion, for the first quarter ended 31 March this year, up four per cent from N5.6 billion for the first quarter ended 31 March last year. During the first quarter, FCMB continued the profitable growth of its commercial banking (FCMB Limited), financial advisory (FCMB Capital Markets Limited) and stockbroking (CSL Stockbrokers Limited) businesses. In the period under review, the Group’s total assets grew 20 per cent, from first quarter of last year to N1.2 trillion, deposits grew 11 per cent, from previous year to N760 billion and loans grew 18 per cent, year on year, to N582 billion. The business

growth resulted in improved financial performance, as net interest income grew eight per cent, from the previous year, to over N18 billion, while profit before tax rose four per cent from N5.6 billion, yearon-year, to N5.8 billion and profit after tax grew nine per cent from N4.83 billion, previous year, to N5.28 billion. FCMB also finished the quarter with robust capital and liquidity ratios at 22 per cent and 41 per cent respectively. The Retail Banking Division continued to gain momentum as total retail deposits grew 32 per cent, year-on-year, and now accounts for 53 per cent of the bank’s deposits. Meanwhile, the retail loan portfolio now at 35.8 per cent of total loans, grew 27per cent

(N45billion), from the previous year to N215billion. The quarter also witnessed increased patronage of FCMB’s credit card offering, with 6,390 cards issued. The investment banking group of FCMB, comprising FCMB Capital Markets Ltd (FCMB-CM) and CSL Stockbrokers Ltd (CSLS), also had a strong quarter, with PBT rising 36 per cent from N198 million, prior year, to N269 million, driven by financial advisory, trading and equity brokerage. During the quarter, FCMB-CM was mandated financial adviser for a global financial institution sponsored development of a comprehensive state-of-the-art medical facility in Lagos. FCMB-CM also completed (as joint book

runner) a N28.2 billion debt capital raising exercise for a state government and was mandated Joint Lead Arranger to raise $450 million to refinance the existing debt facilities of a gas processing and distribution company. FCMB-CM, additionally advised a fast moving consumer goods company on the restructuring of its business. During the quarter, FCMB-CM received the IJ Global Award, for Africa oil & gas deal of last year. Managing Director of FCMB Group Plc, Mr. Peter Obaseki, said: “The business environment in the first quarter was subdued by the political activities and a degree of un-certainties which have largely clearedout.”

HE Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN) has confirmed the appointment of Mr. Adefisayo Awogbade as its Registrar/Chief Executive. Awogbade, a graduate of Banking and Finance from Olabisi Onabanjo University is a Fellow of both the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN) and the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN). Adefisayo, who has worked in both private and public sectors for over 25 years, was at various times at the Fed-

eral Office of Statistics, Transnationwide Express Plc, Intels Nigeria Limited and Maersk Nigeria Limited. Adefisayo joined the Institute in 2011 and was the Assistant Director, Membership, Students Affairs and Examinations, Assistant Director, Education/Research and Technical and the Acting Registrar/Chief Executive between 2011 and 2015. The new administrative head of the Institute has attended various management and professional courses locally and internationally.

FITC wins ‘Great Place to Work Award’

HE Financial Institutions Training Centre (FITC) has won the 2015 Great Place to Work award for ‘Delivering Excellence in Leadership’ at the Best Companies to Work for 2015 award ceremony tagged ‘Good to Great’. The event which took place at the Civic Centre Victoria Island Lagos, on Friday March 20 2015, was organised by Great Place to Work (GPTW) Nigeria. As part of the celebration of the best companies, over three years of the award series, a special award for ‘Best Practices’ was also given under four categories namely. Delivering Excellence in Leadership Delivering Excellence in Wellness Delivering Excellence in Learning and Development as well as Delivering Excellence in Corporate Social Responsibility. The GPTW Nigeria organisation pooled together organisations that have participated in the GPTW assessments over the past three years and analysed their data, to identify

those who have really distinguished themselves in these areas. FITC was one of the three nominees in two categories, namely the Delivering Excellence in Leadership and Delivering Excellence in Wellness categories. For the Delivering Excellence in Leadership award category, FITC was grouped with the Lagos Business School and First Bank of Nigeria and FITC won. For the Delivering Excellence in Wellness category, FITC was grouped with Microsoft Nigeria and DHL. Microsoft Nigeria won, while FITC was 1st runner up. Other awards presented at the ceremony include top companies award under the Small and Medium Population with less than 500 employees given to Microsoft Nigeria, NSIA Insurance Limited and Cocacola Nigeria and under the Large Population with more than 500 employees given to Akintola Williams, Unilever, DHL and Konga.

THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 28, 2015

NEWS

Disquiet in Delta over murder of youth

HERE was disquiet yesterday in Ekpan in Uvwie Local Government Area of Delta State, following the killing of a youth leader, Abraham Edesiri Olomu, by assailants. His murder led to the suspension of the inauguration of officials of the Ekpan Community Trust, of which Olomu was the financial secretary-elect. The ceremony was terminated when angry gunwielding youths besieged the

From Bolaji Ogundele, Warri

Ekpan Town Hall, shooting sporadically. It was learnt that the killing of Olomu led to the death of another resident, Sunday Leleji, who reportedly died of shock on hearing about the death of the youth leader. Olomu, who was to be inaugurated with other elected Ekpan Community Trust members, was reportedly attacked on his way to the cer-

emony. Community sources, who witnessed the killing, said his attackers used knife and gun on him. The assailants were said to have stabbed and shot him. He reportedly died before he was taken to hospital. His remains were deposited at the morgue of a private hospital in Ekpan. Businesses were closed when the killing occurred. The arrival of security operatives restored normalcy

yesterday but the residents were scared for fear of reprisal attack. Police spokesman Celestina Kalu, a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP), said the command had begun investigation into the matter. He said: “Yes, the incident occurred and the killers escaped before police arrived. Expended shells of the ammunition used were recovered. Our crack team is on their trail to get the killers.”

•From left: Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Kenneth Minimah; German Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr Micheal Zenner and Commandant, 1 Divison, Maj.-Gen. Kenneth Osuji, at the inuaguration of Nigerian Army Peace-keeping Medical Centre in Jaji, Kaduna State ... yesterday. PHOTO: NAN

Suspected homosexual killed in Edo

HE outlawed homosexual act has led to the death of a suspected gay lover in Benin, the Edo State capital. Residents, especially youths, of Ojo Street and its environs at Egor Quarters were on rampage at the Aghedo family house located at 52 Ojo Street, off Uwasota Road, in search of a member of the family and suspected gay, Nosa Daniel Aghedo. It was learnt that trouble started at the Aghedo family house when an elderly

•Partner on the run From Osemwengie Ben Ogbemudia, Benin

woman allegedly caught Nosa and his suspected gay lover, identified as Stafford Ariri, at 1pm on March 28 when most adults were at the polling centres for the presidential and National Assembly elections. An eyewitness said the woman raised the alarm that attracted a large crowd. The mob attacked the gay partners by allegedly hitting

them with planks, stones and other weapons. It was learnt that the police were called in and they reportedly watched as the crowd lynched one of the gay lovers. Nosa reportedly escaped but Stafford did not. He died on the way to the hospital, following the serious injuries he sustained in the attack. Nosa’s escape infuriated the mob, prompting them to

rush back to his house to ensure that he faced the same fate as Stafford. The mob burnt down the Aghedo house as what was called the atonement for his abominable act. Police spokesman, Stephen Onwocha, a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP), said the incident was reported to the command. The spokesman said an arrest warrant had been issued for Nosa’s arrest, adding that the police had begun a manhunt for him.

WO suspected murderers were yesterday paraded by the Akwa Ibom State Police Command for the killing Pastor Okon Nana. The deceased was killed and buried in a shallow grave by Usen Akpan and Friday Akpan for land tussle in Ika Local Government Area. The late Nana was killed by the suspects on October 18, 2014, after being abducted from his home by the hoodlums and taken to a plantation forest in Ika. Briefing reporters at the Police Headquarters in Uyo, the state capital, the Assistant Commissioner of Police in charge of State CID, ACP Mike Okoli, said the suspects killed their uncle, the late Nana, in disagreement over a portion of land. The late Nana was a maternal uncle to Usen. ACP Okoli explained that when the disagreement started, the village head, Effiong Paul summoned a meeting on how to settle the dispute but Usen didn’t show up but claimed he had something urgent to do in Port Harcourt. The Police chief said on the eve of the meeting Usen conspired with other people and broke into the home of Nana and adopted him while he was sleeping with his wife. According to him, it was through investigation that the police discovered Nana had been killed. He added that the suspects tied his hands to his back, beat him to death, and buried him in the shallow grave. Okoli said when the police questioned Usen and asked why he did not attend the meeting, it was then Usen became confused and was unable to tell the police what the matter was all about. The body of the deceased, according to ACP Okoli, was later exhumed by the Anti Robbery Team at a plantation forest in Ika based on their confession.

Akwa Ibom Police arrest two for killing cleric From Kazeem Ibrahym, Uyo

His words: “On the eve of the meeting, Usen Akpan went with his gang to the home of Pastor Okon Nana and abducted him. “Investigation continued until the second conspirator, Friday Akpan (alias 18) was arrested. Friday has been at large because he was a party in the dispute over the land and refused to attend the truce meeting. So, he disappeared. Police went into investigation and intensive search until he was arrested. “When he was arrested under interrogation, he owned up, that yes they did the act, they killed this man buried him in a shallow grave. “We did not stop there, we asked them to take the police to the shallow grave where they buried the man. The man had been declared missing since October 18, 2014. Eventually, they took the police detectives to a forest in Ikot Ubo, Ika council, where they dug the skeletal parts of the man out of the shallow grave with his hands tied to his back. “The police made arrangement for complete exhumation, the body was exhumed; we invited a pathologist for autopsy to confirm the cause of death to assist us in prosecution.” One of the suspects, Usen said his uncle (late Nana) had killed five of his siblings through witchcraft. He said he was also trying to kill him before he organised youths to eliminate him in the forest. “He had killed five of us. I was the only one left. He confessed to the killing and vowed to also kill me. I went to him, knelt before him and begged him, but he struck me with sickness. When I became confused, I had to do what I did”, the suspect said.

INEC declares Akwa Ibom constituency’s rerun result

HE Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate has won the rescheduled Ukanafun seat in the Akwa Ibom House of Assembly. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declared the results of the poll held last Saturday. PDP’s Otobong Jonathan Akpan was declared winner of the election, having got 41,691, the highest number of votes. His closest rival, Kufre James Umo, of the Labour Party (LP), polled 307 votes. The popular APC candidate for the election, Okon Uwah, was murdered by

From Uyoatta Eshiet, Uyo

thugs at a campaign a few weeks to the elections. Addressing reporters yesterday, the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Austin Okojie, hailed the electorate and other stakeholders for their orderly conduct during

the poll. Okojie said he was impressed by the huge turnout of voters and their orderliness. He said: “The conduct of the voters and the stakeholders showed that the people of the area are politically sophisticated and peace-loving.

This made the job of the commission less arduous. “Everything went on as planned: materials were in almost all the units as early as 7 am, accreditation went off smoothly and voting started and ended as scheduled and without any incident.”

Ohanaeze appoints interim exco in Akwa Ibom

HE leadership crisis rocking the Akwa Ibom chapter of Ohanaeze Ndigbo’s youth wing has led to the appointment of an interim exco. The umbrella body of the

Igbo appointed the interim exco to coordinate the affairs of the Akwa Ibom State chapter, pending the conduct of an election. The National President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth

Wing, Chief Okechukwu Isiguzoro, at a town hall meeting of the state chapter in Uyo, the state capital, dissolved the executives of state youth wing because of issues on parallel leadership.

Kidnapped Bayelsa’s council chair freed by abductors

HE kidnapped Chairman of Ogbia, the Local Government Area of President Goodluck Jonathan in Bayelsa State, Mr. Anya Abah, has been freed by his abductors. Abah was kidnapped by a four-man gang on April 22 on Otuasega-Okaki Road. His police orderly was said to have fled, following the gunshots the hoodlums fired to scare away likely rescuers

From Mike Odiegwu, Yenagoa

of the council chief. The abductors dragged Abah out of his vehicle at gunpoint and took him to Okarki, in neighbouring Rivers State, from where they sped away in a waiting speedboat. It was learnt that Abah was freed by his abductors at 8:45 pm on Sunday on the Ogonoko waterside in Abua/

Odua Local Government Area of Rivers State. Police spokesman Butswat Asinim, an Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP), said the council chairman was abandoned by his kidnappers. He said Abah’s assailants, sensing that the special force of the Anti-Kidnapping Squad was closing in on them, abandoned him and fled. “Our policemen were on ground after adequate intelli-

gence gathering. We beamed our searchlight on the area because of earlier intelligence gathered. The kidnappers got scared and abandoned their victim.” The police spokesman said the sister to the victim informed the police of attempts by the kidnappers to collect a ransom. He said no ransom was paid, adding that Abah was released in good health.

•The suspected murderers ... yesterday

Arase’s appointment based on merit, says group

GROUP, Esan Renaissance Union (Youth Wing) has backed the appointment of InspectorGeneral of Police Solomon Arase, saying it was based on merit. It faulted criticisms of Arase’s appointment, adding that he fully deserves the job. In a communiqué at the end of its emergency conference in Benin City, Edo State capital, signed by its President Aigbefo Ireteose (Jnr) and Secretary Jude Ehichioya, the group noted that Arase is the only IGP from the Midwest. “Arase’s appointment was not based on any political, tribal or religious sentiment

but purely on merit, diligence and dedication to duty. “Any act of criticisms/accusations levelled against the appointment of the new IGP is baseless, barbaric, unpalatable, sentimental and retrogrssive. It beats our imagination! “Our country is one indivisible and indissoluble entity and no part has it all,” the group said. It disagreed with those criticising President Goodluck Jonathan for sacking former IGP Suleiman Abba, saying the President “has the power to hire and fire whenever such need arises.”

THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 28, 2015

NEWS 20 magistrates take oath in Anambra

From left: Deputy Director, Disease Control, Lagos Ministry of Health, Dr. Rotimi Agbolagorite, Executive Secretary Mushin Local Government, Babajide Bello, Baba Oja, Amu Plank Market, Mushin, Alhaji Jimoh Olowoidiobi, Lagos State Malaria Elimination Programme officer, Dr. Abimbola Osinowo, and Category Manager, Pestcare, Healthcare, Aircare, RB, West Africa, Qaiser Rashid, at the Mortein sponsored community enlightenment in commemoration of 2015 World Malaria Day at Amu Plank Market, Mushin

From Nwanosike Onu, Awka HE Anambra State Chief judge, Justice Peter Umeadi, yesterday, swore in 20 new magistrates, made up of 16 women. A new Deputy Chief Registrar (DCR), Agbasionwe Eugene Agbasionwe, was also sworn in to replace the former, who was elevated to a High Court judge. The new magistrates are Arinze Ijeoma Juliet, Kanu Onyeka Moses, Ezebilo Nnedu Obiamaka, Igbokwe Ijeoma and Nwakanma Chika P. Others are Chigbo Chizoba Catherine, Maduakor N.G.C, Ani Nneka, Loveth Nwadi, Ezeudeka Stella, Onyekwuru Gladys Moneke. Also sworn in are Nduka Victory Chidinma, Onunkwo Ijeoma Ebere, Stanely Udo-Chizoba, Adumah Nnamdi Martins, Eke–Peter Nnamdi, Okosi Maureen Eyiuche, Udeze Uzoma, Agwunobi Rebeka, Anyaegbunam Nonye and Ogugua Ifunanya Clara. The new magistrates, according to Umeadi, would assist to raise the Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) and help the police in running mobile courts.

Gana: PDP made history in 16 years

Ex-Akwa Ibom NDDC chief gets three- year jail for stealing A N Akwa Ibom State High Court has sentenced a former commissioner representing Akwa Ibom State on the board of Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Mr.Godwin Moffat Eyo to three years imprisonment. Eyo was sentenced by the court sitting in Uyo for stealing 56 transformers meant for oil producing communities. He was prosecuted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), on a 56 count-charge bordering on stealing and conversion of 56 electricity transformers released to him by NDDC for distribution to communities in Akwa Ibom State. He was found guilty on 37

From Kazeem Ibrahym, Uyo

of those counts by Justice Idongesit Ntem-Isua and sentenced to three years imprisonment on each of the counts. He was however discharged and acquitted on 19 counts. The sentences are to run concurrently. The convict was said to have applied for 90 electricity transformers and four generators from NDDC for Akwa Ibom State sometime in February, 2006. Approval was given for 70 transformers but he diverted

same to his house on the pretext that there was no space to accommodate the 70 units at the NDDC office in Uyo. He was thereafter said to have sent only 14 Units to the NDDC office while he withheld 56 units which he could not account. The 56 transformers are valued at Two Hundred and Twenty million, One hundred and Seventy Six thousand, Three hundred and Twenty Naira (N220, 176,320). One of the counts reads: “That you Pastor Godwin Moffat Eyo, being a former Akwa Ibom State represen-

tative on the Board of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) on or about 14th April, 2006 at Uyo in the Uyo Judicial Division did fraudulently steal a 300 KVA/33/0.415 Transformer Serial No. 1712496 valued at Four Million, Eighteen Thousand, Five Hundred and Sixty Naira (N4,018,560.00), property of NDDC and thereby committed an offence of stealing contrary to Section 399 and punishable under Section 404 of the Criminal Code Cap. 38, Volume 2, Laws of Akwa Ibom State, 2000.”

Boko Haram is a fraud, says Buhari

RESIDENT-elect, Muhammadu Buhari has said Boko Haram will be denied a recruitment base when local communities realise that its claim of being a religious group is a fraud. “The fraud called Boko Haram can be defeated by denying it a recruitment base,” Buhari told visiting leaders of Nassarawa State who came to congratulate him on his emergence as President-elect. “No religion allows for the killing of children. They have nothing to do with religion. They are terrorists and we will deal with them as they deal with terrorists any-

where,” he said. Buhari said he is pained by the destruction of schools in the Northeast, an action he said could deny thousands of youngsters access to education and a better future unless something was done urgently to avert this tragedy. “The worst thing anybody can do is to deny children access to education. That will be destructive to their lives and we are not going to allow that to happen,” the President-elect assured. Buhari said his government will help the states to get more money to improve infrastructure by

Ikpeazu: I will improve Abia’s economy

‘No religion allows for the killing of children. They have nothing to do with religion. They are terrorists and we will deal with them as they deal with terrorists anywhere’ ensuring that all federally collectible revenues are paid directly into the federation account and each tier of government given its due share. “As at now, the government does not even know

Holy Ghost crusade at THPW

From Ugochukwu Ugoji-Eke, Umuahia

BIA State Governor-elect Dr Okezie Ikpeazu has dedicated his victory to God and the people, promising to reciprocate the confidence reposed in him by working for them. He thanked the people for their trust in him and in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Speaking with reporters at his Umuobiakwa home in Obingwa, Ikpeazu said this was the first time the people would endorse a middle-class man from Ukwa/Ngwa as governor. The governor-elect said his mandate was everyone. “I pledge to protect and treat all equally, as I am determined to cater for all. “I will ensure that the state’s economy improves and characterise Ndigbo to make Abia the economic hub of the Southeast”. Ikpeazu noted that what happened was not an election but an endorsement by the people. “What happened was an endorsement and not a battle or election, which is the reason there is peace in the state,” Ikpeazu said.

how many revenue accounts it has. We will give all the tiers what is due to them but will hold them to be accountable as we would the federal government.” Buhari while describing Nassarawa state as his own “political laboratory”, meaning the only CPCcontrolled state of the 36 others adjudged the experiment as having been a success. “From one state, I now have 22 political laboratories.” He commended Governor Al-Makura for surviving his many impeachment plots, saying “without Nassarawa, there would not have been an APC.”

HE 4 th annual Holy Ghost Crusade of Tehillah House of Praise and Worship a.k.a Praise Chapel, Makogi, Ogun State, is scheduled to hold on Friday, May 1 and Saturday, May 2, by 4 pm.

Thanksgiving service will hold on Sunday, May 3, by 9 am, at Daluwon phase 2 Busstop, Mowe, Ogun State. According to the host Pastor, Evang. Dorcas Aseinde, participants are assured of healing, deliverance and freedom.

One year remembrance

AMILY, friends and well wishers gathered on Saturday, April 25, to pray for the late Mrs Victoria Rahkamel Adedayo, who passed on a year ago. A community leader and mother to many children, both biological and non-biological, Mrs. Adedayo was described as a pillar of support to the family. According to one of her children, “my mother is missed by all and sundry, this is due to her large heart. She was a philanthropist and a home maker, who touched many lives, irrespective of tribe, religion or race.

HAIRMAN of the Governing Council, University of Lagos (UNILAG) and member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Board of Trustees (BoT), Prof Jerry Gana has condemned criticisms that the PDP did nothing in its 16 years of leadership. Gana spoke yesterday at the university’s Convocation lecture at the main auditorium. He listed milestones the party achieved, including Chief Olusegun Obasanjo’s restoration of the nation to its democratic state. Prof Gana said the Jonathan administration should be credited for listening to the voice of Nigerians by conceding defeat. “Some people, even close friends, said we did nothing

By Oluwatoyin Adeleye

in the last 16 years. I will remind them. Do they remember the confused situation Nigeria was in 1997/1998, how we restored democracy? Do they remember that we gave inference to the existing authority and purified the electoral system? “I am glad today because someone still remembers. One person has remembered that it is always good to appreciate something that your predecessor did. So I am going to convey to President (Goodluck Jonathan) that Prof Oke Bukola has advised the incoming President to say ‘look Jonathan, you are to be appreciated because if nothing else, you handed over power over to an elected president’,” Gana said.

One dies in Owerri accident

TRAILER, with registration number XB 882 HAL, belonging to Ibeto Cement Company, yesterday, crashed into a government office in Owerri, killing one person and leaving many injured. Eyewitnesses said the trailer

From Okodili Ndidi, Owerri

came into the state capital through Okigwe road. It lost control while ascending a hill and rammed into the ENTRANCO office. The other unidentified persons were injured.

CAC holds seven-day revival

SEVEN-day revival with the theme: “Stop them before they stop you” started at the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) Victory Land, Pleasure DCC Headquarters, 7, Ajiboye Crescent, Pleasure Bus Stop, Agege, Lagos, on April 26. The revival, which features salvation, deliverance, breakthrough, etc. starts at 5.30 p.m. daily, Monday through Thursday. It will be rounded off with a vigil on Friday. The vigil begins at 11.00 p.m. The revivalist is Prophet Samuel Adubina. The hosts are Evang. Samson Amao, Pastors M.O.E. Ige and James Adeyanju. The district chairman, Pastor S.A.O. Olatunji and DCC Superintendent, Pastor C.S. Fasuyi are chief hosts.

HGCC marks one year

CTIVITIES marking the first year anniversary of the Hand of Grace Christian Centre (HGCC), Ibadan, presided over by Bishop Mike Olasunkanmi Afolabi, has been released. The anniversary will be a four-day programme, beginning on Friday. A statement by the anniversary’s Media and Publicity Committee said there would be Ministers’ Conference on Friday and Saturday at Faithjoe Event Centre, beside Alegongo Secondary School, Akobo, by 10 am. There will be a Rally and Word Feast in the evening between 5 and 7 pm. A special Sunday service, to be presided by Bishop Mike

•Bishop Afolabi

Afolabi, will include a segment devoted to mothers and then a Praise and Dinner Night, by 5 pm. The anniversary will be rounded off with an anointing service on Monday, May 11, by 6 am. Guest ministers include Rev. Simeon Afolabi and Bishop Mike Bamidele.

THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 28, 2015

NEWS Ortom condemns violence in Agatu, Guma From Uja Emmanuel, Makurdi

BENUE State Governorelect Samuel Ortom has condemned the renewed violence in Agatu and Guma local government areas. He urged security agencies to stop further clashes in the areas. Ortom was reacting to reports of communal clashes in Agatu and last Saturday’s attacks on Mbadwem Ward of Guma Local Government Area. Thirty persons were reportedly killed in the clashes. Ortom pledged to collaborate with relevant authorities to resolve the crises in the areas. The governor-elect described the development as sad, unfortunate, avoidable and reprehensible. The former minister of state for Industry, Trade and Investment regretted that such violence usually took a toll on human lives and property. He said its also compounded the poverty among the people and cause serious setbacks to their development. Ortom commiserated with the families of the dead.

USPECTED Boko Haram members have killed 21 people in Yobe State. The victims were said to be returning home to recover abandoned food supplies. “The men, 21 of them, were stopped at Bultaram (village) by gunmen we believe are Boko Haram members, who shot them dead,” said Baba Nuhu, an official with the Gujba Local Government in Yobe

Boko Haram kills 21 in Yobe State. Nuhu and Haruna Maram, a brother to one of the victims, spoke to AFP from the Yobe State capital, Damaturu, where many Gujba residents have fled to seek refuge from Boko Haram violence. “My brother and 20 others wanted to bring back their grains to augment

their lean food supplies to feed their families,” Maram said yesterday. “Unfortunately, they were killed by (the) same Boko Haram we ran away from.” Gujba is one of a handful of districts in Yobe that Boko Haram captured during an offensive last year. The area has been hit by ttacks through the six-year

Fire destroys N320m property in Kano

N early morning fire yesterday destroyed property estimated at N320 million at the Noma Oil and Cakes Company on Mission Road industrial area of Bompai in Kano State. An eyewitness, who spoke in confidence, told reporters in Kano yesterday that the fire started around 9 am and

From Kolade Adeyemi, Kano

lasted for four hours. The fire reportedly spread because of the oil on the premises. The eyewitness, a worker in the company, said he and his colleagues ran to a safe place. Men of the Fire Service battled the fire for three and

a half hours, it was learnt. “The company, which produces cooking oil and cakes for animal feeds, has been closed for over 10 years. Nobody can tell the cause of the fire. We just saw the fire when it started,” the eyewitness said. Kano State Fire Service Director Balarabe Kabara said property estimated at

N320 million were destroyed in the fire. Kabara said the items destroyed included pomade, plastic plates and dishes. He explained that five fire fighting vehicles were despatched to the scene to put out the fire. Kabara said the cause of the fire could not be immediately ascertained.

•From left: Former Abia State Deputy Governor Erik Acho Nwakama; Chairman, JokosOil, Chief Johnny Okosun; Emir of Borgu, Niger State, Dr Haliru Dantoro and Chief Mathew Uwakwe, during a courtesy visit to the Emir.

Unrest: Kwara community backs govt THE people of Ilorin, represented by community and village heads under the aegis of Magajis and Alanguas, have expressed support for the Kwara State government to rid the state of hoodlums and ensure peaceful coexistence. A leader of the Magajis and the Alanguas, Alhaji Salihu Woru Muhammed, spoke yesterday in Ilorin, the state capital, at a solidarity visit to Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed. Muhammed, who is also the Magaji Nda of Ilorin, said the group condemned the fracas that occurred in Ilorin between officials of the Nigeria Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and street urchins. The confrontation led to arson and destruction of vehicles, allegedly by the urchins. Muhammed called for severe punishment for the perpetrators of the violence, adding that the government should plan to prevent a recurrence.

Islamist uprising, including a massacre at an agricultural college in 2013, which targeted students sleeping in their dormitories. Nigeria’s military has claimed a series of success against Boko Haram in an operation launched in February with neighbouring Chad, Cameroon and Niger. Scores of towns previously under insurgents’ con-

APC: Aliyu setting traps for incoming govt

IGER State All Progressives Congress (APC) yesterday accused the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) administration of Dr. Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu of planning to set booby traps for the incoming APC government. In a statement yesterday in Minna, the state capital, by its Chairman Mohammed Imam, the party accused the governor of planning to start a mass recruitment of workers to weigh down the incoming APC administration. It accused Aliyu of sharing this year’s Hajj seats as his parting gifts to some of his cronies. APC said this was with the

•Allegation spurious, says governor From Jide Orintunsin, Minna

intent to leaving liability for the incoming administration. This year’s Hajj will likely hold in July or August, about two months after Aliyu would have left office. But the governor, through his Chief Press Secretary, Israel Ebije, described the allegation as “spurious, shameful and gross misplacement of agenda”. Aliyu said the party was embarking on a cheap blackmail to veil its sinister agenda against the people. But APC said the gover-

nor’s plan was to deliberately create problems for the next administration. It said: “We receive with shock the grand plan of the outgoing government, which we consider wicked, callous and selfish; this has further shown that he has no interest of the state and workers of Niger State at heart.” APC alleged that the aim of Aliyu’s mass recruitment of workers was to leave behind a large workforce that would force the next administration to rationalise. The party said this would paint the next government in bad light before its supporters.

It said: “We are also surprised that the governor has come up with the idea of recruiting for one University of Education in Minna. The question is: where are the structures for the University of Education beyond hiding under the TERTFUND projects of the College of Education in Minna? “If the governor can recall vividly, he will know that it was not the way he inherited IBB University at Lapai when he assumed office in 2007. You don’t establish an institution for the sake of it but for the fact that it meets the aspiration of the people and the structures on which it is being established is well conceived. “We want to bring it to the

trol have reportedly been liberated. Nigeria’s military and President Goodluck Jonathan have encouraged those displaced by the uprising to return home, declaring much of the Northeast safe for resettlement. But community leaders in the embattled region have warned that civilians were still at risk of Islamist attacks, especially those returning to remote areas, such as Gujba. Security experts have cautioned that the Islamists are far from defeated and are still capable of launching hit-and-run attacks.

Kwankwaso to honour youths for returning $40,000 From Kolade Adeyemi, Kano

HE Director-General of Kano State Hisbah Board, Alhaji Abba Sa’ad Sufi, has said Governor Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso will honour five outstanding young artisans, who returned $40,000 they picked on the street on Tudun Murtala Road to the board’s headquarters. Sufi, who addressed reporters yesterday in his office in Kano, also said the owner of the money had been identified and the money returned to him, following an investigation. The Hisbah chief described the youth as good ambassadors of the state and good Muslims with exemplary character worthy of emulation. According to him, what they exhibited was a demonstration of the real teachings of Islam. The returned dollars amounted to about N9 million when converted to current rate. Sufi said: “We, in the Hisbah, ensure that our people, particularly the youth, are not carried away by social vices. It is part of the responsibility of the Hisbah to ensure that our people engage in good deeds, instead of engaging in vices that do not give glory to Allah.” The Hisbah chief named the exemplary youth as Rabe Ammani, Abdulkadir Abubakar, Janadu Abdullahi, Bello Umar and Tahir Muhammad, between 20 and 25 years. He said one of them was a cart pusher, while the others were local barbers. The Hisbah chief explained what happened when the youth returned the money to the board’s office.

Kano govt condoles with families of collapsed bridge victims

HE Kano State government yesterday condoled with the families of seven persons, who died when a pedestrian bridge under construction, collapsed on Sunday at Sheikh Ja’afar Road in Doyeri Quarters, Kano. Some other persons were injured when the bridge collapsed on a taxi cab plying the route. The government commiserated with the families of the deceased and prayed for

•Tricyclist injured in second collapse From Kolade Adeyemi, Kano

the speedy recovery of the injured, who are receiving treatment in hospital. In a statement by the Director of Press to the Governor, Halilu Ibrahim Dantiye, the government promised to ensure that the company handilng the bridge adequately compensates the victims and their families.

Also, the statement urged the public to be patient and obey the law to avoid disasters. The government also urged various companies handling projects across the state to avoid discomfort for the residents. The police command, on Sunday evening, confirmed the death of seven persons, following the collapse of a pedestrian bridge at Dorayi

Quarters in Kano. Command’s spokesman Magaji Musa Majiya, an Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP), confirmed the incident. The spokesman said three, not seven persons, died, when the bridge collapsed at 4:45 pm on a taxi. He also said four others were injured and receiving treatment at an undisclosed hospital. Majiya said: “...It should be noted that the workers on site

forewarned motorists not to drive past, as construction work on the bridge was on. But the driver of the taxi was said to have ignored the warning. “So, moments after he proceeded, the bridge ...collapsed on the vehicle, leading to the death of seven persons.” The police said they had begun investigation. The second part of the bridge caved in yesterday, injuring a tricycle operator passing by.

Our correspondent, who visited the scene, noted that the tricycle was broken into two. Majia said the incident happened in the early hours of yesterday when the tricycle operator was attempting to meander his way off the rough road in the area. The spokesman said the bridge suddenly collapsed on the tricycle operator. Majia said the police had invited the contractor handling the bridge for questioning.

THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 28, 2015

FOREIGN NEWS

Nepal quake: International aid effort stepped up

President Jonathan commiserates with Nepal quake victims

•Death toll climbs to almost 4000

N behalf of the government and people of Nigeria, President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan extends sincere condolences to the government and people of Nepal over the loss of thousands of lives in the devastating earthquake that has occurred in the country. President Jonathan notes that the tragedy has caused deep sorrow, not just for the Nepalese but all humanity. The President assures the government and people of Nepal of the deepest sympathy and solidarity of the people of Nigeria as they mourn those who lost their lives to the earthquake and begin the onerous task of rehabilitating survivors and rebuilding affected parts of their country. President Jonathan also assures the Nepalese government of Nigeria's preparedness to join other sympathetic nations in assisting the people of Nepal to overcome the damage and destruction caused by the earthquake.

HE international aid effort for Nepal is gathering pace, with Saturday’s huge earthquake now known to have killed at least 3,900 people and injured 7,000. China, India, Pakistan and Britain are among the countries contributing to the effort, alongside major aid agencies. Nepal has asked for more help, saying it needs everything from helicopters and blankets to paramedics and drivers. At least 200 climbers have now been rescued around Mount Everest, after the quake triggered avalanches. Vast tent cities have sprung up in Nepal’s capital, Kathmandu, for those displaced or afraid to return to their homes. Across the country, thousands spent Sunday night - their second night - outside. Much of the effort is now turning to recovery of bodies in and around Kathmandu Cremations are taking place near a river in Kathmandu The Nepalese government’s Chief Secretary, Lila Mani Poudyal, said his country was short of relief materials and medical teams. He said there was a desperate need for “tents, dry goods, blankets, mattresses and 80 different medicines”. “We don’t have the helicopters that we need or the expertise to rescue the

•An injured person is loaded onto a rescue helicopter at Everest base camp at the aftermath of the Nepal quake. More than 18 climbers were killed at the camp base. PHOTO: Getty

people trapped.” The need for doctors would rise as more survivors were pulled from the rubble, he added. Dozens of people are also reported to have been killed by the earthquake in neighbouring China and India. Both countries have sent emergency teams to Nepal, along with Pakistan, which said it was dispatching four C130 transport planes carrying a 30bed hospital. Other countries, including Britain, Australia and New Zealand are also contributing. However, congestion at Kathmandu’s airport has caused de-

lays, with Indian TV reporting that an Indian relief flight was forced to turn back. United Nations World Food Programme spokeswoman Elisabeth Byrs told AFP that the agency planned “a large, massive operation”. Water is becoming scarce and there are fears that children in particular could be at risk of disease. Even residents of some of the city’s smarter neighbourhoods are sleeping on carpets and mattresses outside their homes. Aid flights are coming in rapidly and in fact Kathmandu airport is run-

ning out of parking bays, so many aircraft have to wait before getting permission to land. Officials have warned that the number of casualties could rise as rescue teams reach remote mountainous areas of western Nepal. Rescuers have been able to take injured people off Mount Everest On Mount Everest, clear weather yesterday allowed helicopters to rescue foreign climbers and their Nepalese guides who had been stranded by a huge avalanche. At least 18 people have been killed by avalanches on the mountain.

U.S., Japan unveil new defence pact

J •Museveni

Museveni: Train Ugandan youths to tackle al-Shabab

RESIDENT Yoweri Museveni has ordered security agencies to re-introduce military training for Ugandan civilians to counter the threat from al-Shabab., Mr Museveni said that although al-Shabab was “defeated”, Ugandans need to guard against attacks. Uganda has more than 6,000 troops in Somalia as part of an African Union force battling the Islamist militants. In 2010, al-Shabab bomb attacks in Kampala killed at least 76 people. In the 1980s and 990s, Ugandan school leavers used to perform two years of national service before attending university. President Museveni said he had already given instructions to the relevant security agencies to launch the programme, focusing initially on the most vulnerable areas in the country. He did not give many details about the scheme, but Ugandan army spokesman Lt Col Paddy Ankunda said that there were no plans to arm the civilian population

APAN and the United States unveiled new guidelines for defence cooperation yesterday, reflecting Japan’s willingness to take on a more robust international role at a time of growing Chinese power and rising concerns about nuclear-armed North Korea. The first revision to the guidelines since 1997 allows for global cooperation militarily, ranging from defence against ballistic missile, cyber and space attacks and maritime security, following a Japanese Cabinet resolution last year reinterpreting Japan’s pacifist constitution to allow the exercise of the right to “collective self-defence.” The guidelines reflect a changing world and mean Japan could shoot down missiles heading toward the United States and come to the aid of third countries under attack.

A centrepiece of Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s U.S. visit this week, the guidelines are part of Abe’s wider signal that Japan is ready to take more responsibility for its security as China modernizes its military and flexes its muscles in Asia. In return, the conservative Japanese leader, who is scheduled to meet U.S. President Barack Obama today, has been seeking fresh assurances that America comes to Japan’s aid if necessary in a clash with China. A joint statement issued after the meeting “reconfirmed the alliance’s commitment to the security of Japan,” as well as Japan’s sovereignty over islets in the East China Sea known as the Senkakus in Japan and the Diaoyus in China, the subject of a bitter territorial dispute. The surge in China’s military spending since 1997, when the last U.S.-Ja-

pan defence cooperation guidelines were issued, and its more assertive stance in maritime and territorial disputes has uneased both Japan and U.S. allies in Southeast Asia. Announced after a meeting of the U.S. and Japanese foreign and defence ministers in New York, the guidelines eliminate geographic restrictions that had largely limited joint work to the defence of Japan and the surrounding area, a senior U.S. official said. The changes would allow greater coordination and information sharing, for example, in missile defence, and allow Japan to shoot down any missiles heading for U.S. territory or to defend U.S. ships engaged in missile-defence in the vicinity of Japan, he said. They would also allow increased cooperation in cyber security and defence of assets in space, the U.S. official said.

Indonesia condemned over death penalty

RANCE and Australia have condemned the death penalty as executions for three of their nationals loom in Indonesia. Earlier, Australia called on Indonesia to delay executing two convicted Australian drug traffickers until corruption claims were investigated. Andrew Chan and Myuran Sukumaran were convicted in 2006. The two, along six other foreigners and an Indonesian, have been formally told of their execution. A French trafficker is appealing against his conviction. Under Indonesian law, convicts must be given 72 hours’ notice of execution. This means the executions by the firing squad could be carried out

as early as Tuesday. “France and Australia share the same attachment to human rights and condemn the death penalty in all places and all circumstances,” the French presidency said in a statement after a meeting between French President Francois Hollande and Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott in Paris. French convict Serge Atlaoui still has an appeal before the courts. France has warned of “consequences” if the execution goes ahead. Meanwhile, Philippine President Benigno Aquino appealed to Indonesian President Joko Widodo for “humanitarian consideration” in connection with the case of a Filipina

woman, Mary Jane Veloso, who is also on death row for drug-trafficking offences. Mr Widodo’s spokesman said he was “sympathetic” and was consulting the attorney general on legal issues. Australia made last-minute pleas on behalf of the two Australian men to delay their execution until a corruption investigation into their case was complete. But on Monday evening, Indonesia’s attorney general confirmed that the nine death row convicts would be executed as planned, without giving an indication of when the executions would be likely to take place.

Sudan’s Bashir wins by a landslide

UDAN’S President Omar alBashir has been re-elected with 94% of the vote, according to official results. The country’s main opposition parties boycotted the elections, saying they would not be free and fair. Turnout was officially 46% but BBC Sudan analyst James Copnall says many believe the real figure was even lower. Mr Bashir, who has been in power since 1989, denies International Criminal Court (ICC) charges of ordering a

genocide in the Darfur conflict. Pro-government militias were accused of ethnic cleansing during the Darfur conflict Western countries, including the US, Britain and Norway, criticised the polls for not being free and fair. The African Union monitors said that basic freedoms and human rights would have “enhanced” the polls. Most Western countries will not accept the elections as meaningful, but 71-year-old President Bashir can count on support from the likes of the Arab

League, and Russia, says our correspondent. The ICC arrest warrant for Mr Bashir relates to the Darfur conflict, which began in 2003, and in which the UN estimates 300,000 people died and more than two million displaced. The African Union (AU) has rejected the ICC’s attempts to have him arrested, arguing that Mr Bashir enjoys presidential immunity and therefore cannot be tried while in office. In December 2014, the ICC dropped its investigation into the crimes, blam-

•Bashir

ing inaction by the UN Security Council.

Pope calls for aid for quake victims

OPE Francis has led prayers in St. Peter’s Square for the dead and displaced from the massive earthquake in Nepal and surrounding areas. Francis called for assistance for the survivors during his weekly Sunday blessing. He said he was praying for the victims, the injured and “all those who are suffering from this calamity,” and asked that they have the “support and fraternal solidarity” they need. On Saturday, the Vatican secretary of state sent a formal telegram of condolences seeking to encourage rescue crews and comfort the survivors. Saturday’s magnitude 7.8 earthquake left at least 1,900 people dead, spreading horror from Kathmandu to small villages and to the slopes of Mount Everest, triggering an avalanche that buried part of the base camp packed with foreign climbers.

Togo president ahead in polls

OGO’S incumbent President Faure Gnassingbe appeared set for a third term after a weekend election, with partial results issued on Monday giving him a strong lead. The Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) said Gnassingbe had won 62 percent of the vote, far ahead of his nearest rival Jean-Pierre Fabre, who took 32 percent with about 12 percent of ballots counted. Up to around 55 percent of the country’s 3.5 million voters turned out on Saturday, according to the CENI, which has five days to announce the final outcome. Turnout was significantly lower than in 2010, when nearly two thirds of registered voters took part. Experts had said the narrow chance of a loss for Gnassingbe would depend on a massive voter turnout, but civil society groups said participation rates were “very weak”. results came from 934 of a total of 8,994 polling stations in six regions of the country, a long strip of land that lies between Ghana and Benin, the commission said. Gnassingbe has been in power since the death of his father, Gnassingbe Eyadema, in 2005, winning contested elections that year and five years later. His father came to power in 1967, and ruled the country with an iron fist. When he died in February 2005, the army put his son in power, causing an outcry. Faure Gnassingbe resigned and then won a hastily organised election. Analysts say divisions within the opposition five-party coalition Combat for Political Change (CAP 2015) combined with the benefits of incumbency made Fabre’s prospects of victory very dim.

THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 28, 2015

NEWS The multi-billion dollar scam in NNPC, by auditors Continued from page 4

may still require third party liabilities to meet costs of operations and subsidies, and may not be able to make any remittances to FAAC.” It, therefore, recommended that the “NNPC model of operation must be urgently reviewed and restructured, as the current model, which has been in operation since the creation of the Corporation, cannot be sustained”. PwC also established that a “determination is required as to whether all or a portion of other costs not directly attributable to crude oil operations can be defrayed by NNPC”. It recommended that the NNPC be required to disclose details of all existing liabilities and impact on proceeds of future crude oil sales. PwC said: “Accordingly, all the Corporations costs, and those of its loss making subsidiaries have been defrayed in the analysis provided by the Corporation for the review period. However, the profit making subsidiaries and dividends received have been excluded from the analysis provided. This suggests that there are other sources of net revenues available to the Corporation not currently disclosed. A proper estimate of the actual potential excess remittance/under-remittance can only be arrived at if all revenues and all costs of the Corporation and all its subsidiaries are accounted for in a consolidated position. A detailed review of this was beyond the scope of our mandate. “We, therefore, recommend that NNPC be required to disclose the consolidated position of the Group and its subsidiaries, and expected remittances to the Federation accounts be determined from the available consolidated net revenues. Furthermore, the nature of costs that are allowable should be predetermined by all relevant parties. “We also recommend that the NNPC Act be reviewed as the

content contradicts the requirement for NNPC to be run as a commercially viable entity. It appears the act has given the Corporation a ‘blank’ cheque to spend money without limit or control. This is untenable and unsustainable and must be addressed immediately. The Corporation should be required to create value, and meet its expenses entirely from the value created. “Proceeds from the FGN’s crude oil sales should be remitted entirely to the Federation Account. Commisions for the Corporation services can then be paid based on agreed terms.” It added: “We also expect that NPDC should remit dividends to NNPC and ultimately the Federation Account, based on NPDC’s dividend policy and declaration of dividend for the review period.We did not have access to NPDC’s full accounts and records and we have not ascertained the amount of costs and expenses which should be applied to the $5.11billion Crude Oil revenue (net of royalties and PPT paid) per the NPDC submission to the Senate Committee hearing in order to arrive at the Net Revenue (in line with the AG’s Opinion), which should be subjected to dividend remittance.We are also not aware that NPDC declared dividend for the review period. These matters need to be followed up for final resolution in terms of the NPDC Net Revenue (dividend) for Crude Oil relating to the transfers, PPT and royalty unremitted, and the transfer price valuation and remittance.” The auditors’ other findings include “possible errors in the computation of crude oil prices at the NNPC that resulted in a $3.6 million shortfall in incomes to the Federation Account. “The major beneficiaries were Fujairah Refinery - $805,545, NNPC (KRPC/WRPC) – $697,995 and NNPC (COMD) -

$2,107,275. Subsequent to our identification of this issue, NNPC has amended the errors, and have reflected the amendments in the remittances to FAAC in October 2014.” The report uncovered iregularities in Kerosine subsidy. It said: “Our review of the DPK sales process revealed that NNPC sells DPK to bulk DPK marketers in Nigeria at N40.90 per litre at a location on the coastal waterways (off shore Lagos). The expected/official regulated retail price of DPK in Nigeria is N50 per litre. This retail price of N50 comprises the ex-depot price of N34.51 and a margin of N15.49. NNPC should be required to explain the reason for selling DPK at N40.90, rather than the regulated Ex-depot price of N34.51. The Corporation should also be required to explain the reason for selling DPK to bulk DPK marketers at a location on the coastal waterways (off shore Lagos) rather than at the incountry depots.” The auditors criticised the accounting and reconciliation system for crude oil revenues used by government agencies as “inaccurate and weak”. “We noted significant discrepancies in data from different sources. The lack of independent audit and reconciliation led to over reliance on data produced from NNPC. This matter is further compounded by the lack of independence within NNPC as the business has conflicting interests of being a stand-alone self-funding entity and also the main source of revenue to the Federation Account,” they said.

Olanusi’s Impeachment can’t stand, says APC Continued from page 4

shall also cause any statement made in reply to the allegation by the holder of the office…”. Akinyelure said the above provision was not complied with or observed by the House of Assembly before the deputy governor was illegally or unconstitutionally removed from office. At the time the impeachment begun about fortnight ago, the vice chairman said the deputy governor had travelled out of the country for medical check-up, noting that the House did not serve the notice of impeachment on him or place it in any national daily as required by the 1999 Constitution. Akinyelure also accused the Assembly of violating Section 188(6) of the Constitution, which states that the holder of the office, whose conduct “is being investigated under this section shall have the right to defend himself in person or be represented before the panel on inquiry by a legal practitioner of his own choice”. As required under Section 188 (6) of the 1999 Constitution, Akinyelure said the deputy governor was not offered the opportunity to defend himself, noting that he was not in the county when the impeachment proceedings started. He said the deputy governor “has not returned to Nigeria since he travelled out”.

“He was not given opportunity to defend himself. And the panel has three months to conclude its assignment as indicated in section 188(7)(b), out of which it has not exhausted two weeks. Why is the panel acted in a hurry? Why can it follow due process?” The APC chieftain also accused the lawmakers of breaching Section 188 (2)(b) of the 1999 Constitution, which states that “the holder of such office is guilty of gross misconduct in performance of the functions of his office detailed particulars of which shall be provided.” Akinyelure said the impeachment did not comply with this provision, noting that it did not show substantive particulars of impeachable offences brought against him. On these grounds, the vice chairman argued Olanusi’s impeachment “left so much to be desired and that the decision of the panel would not stand.” The party would challenge illegal impeachment of the deputy governor,” Akinyelure said. The Ondo State APC also described the impeachment as “temporary.” In a statement by Publicity secretary Abayomi Adesanya, the party said it is laughable that the rubber stamp House of Assembly could hurriedly impeach the deputy governor and accept the nomination of another person in haste. The statement reads: “the

impeachment of Alhaji Ali Olanusi as the deputy governor of Ondo State is temporary. The whole process of the impeachment was a sham and charade. How on earth will a deputy governor be impeached within five days? “It shows that there were unholy alliance among Governor Olusegun Mimiko, Chief Judge, Olasehinde Kumuyi and the governor’s stooges who call themselves lawmakers to embark on illegal process to impeach the deputy governor. “It was clear to the people that before the directive of the State Assembly Speaker to serve Olanusi the impeachment notice, the embattled deputy governor was not in the state. Without any court order, the Speaker directed them to paste the notice on the quarters of the deputy governor and this is unlawful. “The Chief Judge sets up a panel and a panel that was expected to sit for three months by giving room for fair hearing with the parties involved, only sat for five hours just because they have instructions for them to act upon. “We insist that the newly sworn-in Deputy Governor, Alhaji Laisisi Oluboyo, will only be there temporary as we still have faith in the judiciary that illegality perpetrated by the State Assembly will be set aside very soon”.

Mimiko gets new deputy as Ondo House sacks Olanusi Continued from page 4

ment. Oluboyo’s confirmation took a short time after the speaker announced to members that he had been nominated by Mimiko. Oluboyo was later sworn in by the Chief Judge at an event attended by the Chief Imam of Akure, Alhaji Abdulakeem

Akorede. Mimiko assured the people that the change would not have a negative impact on the state. The governor said the impeachment enjoyed the support of the state government and the people. PDP praised the Assembly for impeaching Olanusi. A statement by its Director of

Publicity, Ayo Fadaka, said for any governor to progress in his administrative duties, he must have a loyal and committed deputy governor. The PDP said: “Party takes absolute cognisance of the impeachment of Alhaji Ali Olanusi as Deputy Governor and commends the House of Assembly for its tenacity in prosecuting this action.

“It is important to declare that the Parliament displayed its commitment to good governance that will be bereft of undue encumberances by removing from office a man who not only discharge his responsibilities with levity and mostly in abeyance, but also view with disdain his oath of office to bear true allegiance to the government he was an integral part of.”

THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 28, 2015

NATION SPORT INTERVIEW... INTERVIEW... INTERVIEW... INTERVIEW...

Okocha: I enjoyed every single moment A legend of Nigerian football, former Paris Saint-Germain playmaker Augustine “Jay-Jay” Okocha was back in France last week for the 12th Match Against Poverty. Answering the call of Zinedine Zidane and Ronaldo, the men behind this unique initiative, the 41-year-old lit up the star-studded event and showed he had lost none of his magical skills. Sitting down for an interview with FIFA.com, the inimitable Jay Jay also showed that his sense of humour remains very much intact. Displaying a love of life and for the game, the Nigerian great, who appeared in three FIFA World Cup™ competitions and won the CAF African Cup of Nations in 1994 and Olympic gold two years later in Atlanta, remains as much of an entertainer as he always was.

HAT does it mean to you to take part in a charity match like

this? Jay Jay Okocha: This event means a lot to me. It’s an opportunity for us footballers, who’ve enjoyed all the advantages life has to offer, to give something back to people in need. It’s a great and beautiful initiative. How much pleasure do you get from being able to play again in front of a large crowd? A lot. It’s a special feeling and it’s something you miss. It’s wonderful to have the chance to relive it all again, to run and play, to express yourself on the pitch, and all without any pressure on you either. I was very excited about it.

What’s your happiest memory of your career as a player? I’ve got quite a few and it’s impossible for me to pick out one in particular. Every second I’ve spent on the pitch is a good memory for me, every moment when I’ve been able to express myself with the ball. I enjoyed every single moment of my footballing career, for every club I played with. I’ve got nothing but good memories. You played for Eintracht Frankfurt, Fenerbahce, Paris Saint-Germain, Bolton Wanderers and Hull City during your career. Is there one club that’s especially close to your heart? Yes, there is one that is particularly important to me… just don’t expect me to tell you

who it is (laughs)! I don’t want to disappoint the other clubs, who also mean a lot to me. I’m keeping my secret. And do you have a favourite goal out of all the ones you scored? Yes, the one I got for Frankfurt against Karlsruhe in 1993 stands out a little for me. I was very young and I hadn’t made a name for myself yet. Klaus Toppmoller was my coach at the time and he started me on the bench for that game, which I wasn’t especially pleased about. We were 2-1 up when he finally decided to put me on. We were under pressure and my job was to keep the ball, but we put a break together and I suddenly found myself in the opposition penalty box with four or five defenders facing me. I just dribbled with the ball, going one way and then the next before putting the ball past the keeper, who was none other than Oliver Kahn. That goal said a lot about how skilful you were, but do you feel you missed out on achieving something big in your career? Yes, I feel like that about Nigeria, especially the 1994 World Cup. I really think we could have sprung a surprise, but at the time we didn’t know just how good we were. It was our first world finals and we settled for that. Looking back, though, I’m convinced we had the potential to shock the whole world. It’s [football] a religion in my country. It unites the whole country as one. Former Nigeria star Jay Jay Okocha What does football mean in Nigeria? It’s a religion in my country. It unites the whole country as one. If the football goes well, then everything goes well. It’s more than a game, more than a sport. It’s part of our culture. What’s your view on the state of the game in Nigeria? You can’t be completely satisfied with the situation at the moment. We’re lacking a bit of consistency, but there’s plenty of work being done at the top. We’ve been through some tough times, but the good thing is that we’re a big country with a lot of talented players. We just need to get

the right structures in place so that the light can shine for good. And what about African football? Do you think African teams are closing the gap on the big European and South American sides? I think so, but the problem is that we still settle for very little. We celebrate a World Cup quarter-final place when it’s not enough. You have to go further. The gap has closed a lot, though. African teams are getting harder and harder to beat, and that’s a fact. Who’s the best African player in the game right now? I’d say Yaya Toure. He’s the most consistent performer. And then there’s Jay-Jay of course (laughs)! Nigeria won the last FIFA U-17 World Cup and their U20 side are the reigning Afri-

can champions in the age group. Are we seeing the emergence of another golden generation? I think so, but we have to make sure that these youngsters can kick on. If we’re going to do that, we must give them support and encouragement. If we don’t give them the right backing, then it’s just going to be the same old story. We have youth teams that have shone in the past but which haven’t been able to push on at senior level. Let’s try and protect this emerging generation of players and help them mature. I think it’s important that we set up structures that allow us to achieve the kind of continuity we’ve always needed. Can you see a new Jay-Jay Okocha coming along in that new generation?

One thing’s for sure: there’s an awful lot of talent among those youngsters. No two players are the same, though. Every player has their own attributes, characteristics and flaws, and their own story too. Are you thinking of going into coaching one day? No, not for the moment. I’m more interested in the executive positions. I prefer to be the one who appoints them and tells them what to do (laughs)! You see yourself as the presidential type, then? Why not? Yes. In fact, I’ve just been named the chairman of the Delta State Football Association, which I’m delighted about. Who knows what the future has in store, though?

THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 28, 2015

THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL, 28, 2015

SPORT EXTRA

Oshoala inspires Details of the NFF Nike Liverpool to victory contract revealed S

IT manufacturing giants, Nike, is to supply kits to the value of $750,000 to the various National Teams of Nigeria in the first year of the contract recently signed with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF). Details of the contract, signed in London last Thursday, showed that the products value would increase in the second year, with the American company committed to supplying kits to the tune of $1million to the Nigeria National Teams.

They will supply kits worth the sum of $1million to the National Teams in the years 2017 and 2018. The three-and-half year contract was signed by NFF President Amaju Pinnick and General Secretary Mohammed Sanusi, with Tina Salminen, Nike’s African Football Sports Marketing Director, representing the American behemoth. There are also various bonuses specified for any of the National Teams that qualifies for major international championships, with the Su-

per Eagles to earn up to the sum of $500,000 at the 2018 FIFA World Cup finals in Russia. “We are comfortable with the contract, because Nike came across during the negotiations as being fluid and ready to listen to our demands. That is always the key aspect; you always need a partner with a listening ear. “Nigeria football is happy to associate with a global leader and I am much convinced this is just the beginning. As we go

‘What Flying Eagles must do’

ITH most Nigerians tipping them to be the first Nigerian

U20 boys’ team to win the FIFA U20 World Cup, Flying Eagles coach Manu Garba has outlined what they must do to have the expected impact

in New Zealand. Speaking to SL10.ng, the former Golden Eaglets coach says there has to be a lot more to the team, for them to win the competition. “The things we must do to achieve success in New

Zealand are first of all, good preparation, which I think we are having at the moment,” he said. “Then of course there has to be hard work from both the players and the coaches. “There also has to be team discipline and transparency in the way we select the players. We must make sure we select the best players for every match,” he said of him and his assistants.

•Iheanacho FA YOUTH CUP FINAL:

Iheanacho scores again for City By Akeem Lawal LYING Eagles coach Manu Garba got cheering news ahead of the FIFA Under-20 World Cup in New Zealand, as striker Kelechi Iheanacho demonstrated his return to match fitness by scoring for Manchester City’s Under-18 side in a 2-1 loss to Chelsea U-18s in the final of the FA Youth Cup, played at the Stamford Bridge Monday night. There were doubts whether the Golden Ball winner at the 2013 FIFA Under-17s would be allowed to attend the Flying Eagles’ training camp in Germany, ahead of the Under-20 World Cup after missing City’s 3-1 loss in the first leg to the defending champions Chelsea. The 18 year-old, however, showed a glimpse of what to expect from him in New Zealand by giving Manchester City the lead on his FA Youth Cup debut as early as the 7th minute of the encounter in front of 10, 969 fans. Aron Nemane broke forward down the right and his cross was met well at the near post by Iheanacho to knock the ball in past Bradley Collins. The Nigerian, despite his documented inexperience, provided City with the most potent threat throughout what was a wholly impressive display for the youngster.

along, NIKE may also be willing to partner with some of our domestic Clubs and even the League Management Company,” Pinnick said.arry on my good form to show what I am capable of to the teams watching me for next season,'' Troost-Ekong concluded. The 21 - year - old stopper, who becomes a free agent in the summer, is on the radar of teams based in the United Kingdom and Holland.

UPER Falcons’ youngster Asisat Oshoala was in impressive form scoring Liverpool Ladies' first goal against Manchester City Ladies in their Sunday April 26th FA Women's Super League match held at the Select Stadium. Oshoala's goal came in the 12th minute, provoking the visitors into a revenge run that was rewarded nine minutes into the second half through Nikita Parris . Liverpool’s winner came

though a 58th minute Line Smorsgard strike, assisted by an Oshoala arrangement. The match ended 2-1 in favour of the hosts. Having had a consistent playing time for a club she joined at the beginning of the year, Oshoala is now eyeing the golden boot, with Sunday’s goal being her second of the season, one behind the duo of Gemma Davison and Rachel Williams. The win saw Liverpool jumped to third on the ladder.

Zenith Bank WBL

•AHIP seeks win after Benue Princess loss By Adeyinka Adedipe

HE Adolescent Health and Information Project (AHIP) Queens of Kano blew their chance of winning their first game yesterday as they lost 45-58 in the Zenith Bank Women Basketball League at the sports hall of the National Stadium, Abuja. The Kano girls had a fantastic third quarter, recovering from a poor first half where they trailed by 20 points (10-30) reducing the deficit to (7 points) 32-39 going into the final quarter, but their challenge broke down in the final quarter as the Patience Idoko-led Benue Princess ran away with the hardearned victory. However, inspirational performance from Idoko who

finished with a double double, 16 points,11 rebounds and 14 points from team mate Cynthia Gbihi, ensured second win of the season for the Benue Princess. Speaking after the match, head coach of the AHIP Queens, William Morrison said his team was gradually getting into their stride and their focus is securing a place in the Final eight. "We have prepared and worked hard for this moment. We just need to find our feet and we will start winning our games". Idoko believes her team can get better this season if they play together. "If we can play together I believe we can make the Final eight. We are playing First

Deepwater tomorrow and it's going to be five players against five so we have nothing to fear". As Benue Princess get set for their next encounter against the former fourtime champion, First Deepwater, AHIP Queens will be have a day of rest and enough time to prepare for Plateau Rocks on Wednesday. Also, Oluyole Babes, who once struggled in past seasons, got their second win in a roll after defeating Taraba Hurricanes 47-22. The Stephen Ogunleye tutored girls coasted to victory courtesy 18 points from Bose Amoo, while Tobi Ogedengbe added 10 points and 8 rebounds in the one sided encounter.

TODAY IN THE NATION

TUESDAY, APRIL 28, 2015 TRUTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM

VOL.10

NO. 3198

“Let security chiefs be appointed solely on merit; not on their perceived duplicity to subvert the law against the political opposition” OLAKUNLE ABIMBOLA

COMMENT & DEB ATE EBA

ACK in 1986, I served with Uche Chukwumerije and about a dozen other senior media figures on the Publicity Advisory Committee for the National Population Census, at the instance of Tola Adeniyi, the commissioner for public affairs and communications at the National Population Commission. After general introductions at the Committee’s inauguration, Chukwumerije had walked up to me and told me how much he admired my weekly column for The Guardian, and how he looked forward to each installment. I told him how I had treasured his pan-African newsmagazine Afriscope, and how I had served as its University of Lagos stringer and had been generously compensated for my effort. That encounter was the beginning of what went beyond mere acquaintanceship, though it would be claiming too much to call it a friendship. Shortly after he was named Secretary for Information in the Transitional Council, he came to my office at Rutam House one late afternoon, unannounced. Preliminaries over, he told me he had come to seek my help and that of “my boys” in carrying out his duties as Secretary for Information. “Not so fast, Uche,” I said. “You didn’t consult me before taking the job, and now you are asking me to help you make a success of it. Tell me: Why did you accept the job?” Chukwumerije said he had agonised over the offer and had consulted with his comrades in the progressive community – he named the activist Baba Omojola specifically – and they had all advised him to accept the offer because if he did not, it might go to someone who could not bring to the office the ideas and ideals for which Chukwumerije stood. Besides, they had told him that the best way to change the system was from within. “What if, on taking office, you find that the government is pursuing an agenda different from the one you had been appointed to execute?” I asked. “No way,” Chukwumerije said. He had raised that very question with Babangida, and had made it abundantly clear that he would resign if he found that the government was pursuing a hidden agenda, he said. Babangida had in turn assured him that he harboured no hidden agenda, and was resolutely committed to handing over to a democratically elected government on August 27, 1993. As proof of his earnestness, Chukwumerije said, Babangida had pulled out a drawer from his desk and reached for a copy of the Quran to swear by, but could find none. “How very convenient,” I said. “You believe him?” “C’mon, Tunji, you are too far gone in your cynicism. If you don’t believe him, you should at least believe me.” He assured me, as he said he had assured Babangida, that he would resign if he found that he was being used to pursue a scheme he had not bargained for. “That’s good enough for me, Uche. What do you want of me?”

RIPPLES

NIGERIAN BEATEN TO STATE OF COMA BY POLICE IN ASIAN COUNTRY–News

Luck chap, here NIGERIANS are beaten to ‘STATE OF FULL STOP!

OLATUNJI DARE

AT HOME ABROAD olatunji.dare@thenationonlineng.net

Remembering Uche Chukwumerije

•The late Chukwumerije

“Call me to order, rebuke me publicly whenever you feel that I am straying from the ideals we share,” he said. “I will do better than that,” I told him. “I will remonstrate with you privately. I will not go public unless you make private discussion impossible.” We sealed the deal with a handshake. We rarely met thereafter, but kept in touch through his special assistant, Dr Dokun Bojuwade, since deceased. The Transitional Council, comprising many eminent Nigerians from a class and an era that military president Ibrahim Babangida had spent the previous eight years excoriating, was charged with supervising the last nine months of his political transition programme that had lost momentum and credibility. He had manipulated the programme so often and in so many ways that it seemed to have become an end in itself, a journey to nowhere. Even as the programme muddled its way towards the June 1993 presidential election that was billed as its culmination, proxy groups established and financed by the military regime were staging rallies and employing every platform to urge Babangida to continue in office. And Babangida

ADICAL Lagos pastor Tunde Bakare has come up with a prayer perhaps only his inimitable self can pray: “My sincere prayer is that,” he prayed his prayer, “not all those who helped Gen. Buhari to win the elections will help him run the government”! That is Pastor Bakare’s latest prayer release from his Akilo, Ogba big house of prayer — and his congregants must have lapped it up, the diktat of the man of God! Now, how’s that? In the secular world, that prayer would qualify for basic inequity — for is that not praying that whoever sowed should not reap? Should it not also translate into prayerful iniquity on the ecclesiastical plane, if God is not man and man is not God, even if there are trumpeted (wo)men of God, who nevertheless delude themselves by playing God? And pray, where is the place of that part of the scripture, which stresses divine grace and never human accomplishment, by saying, without the grace of God, all is as clean as a filthy rag? Perhaps that never has any appeal in Bakarean theology, as the radical evangelical petrel unleashes Bakarean prayers and even prophecies, from his blessed pulpit! Recall, 1999. The equally controversial Gen. Olusegun Obasanjo had just won the Nigerian presidency. Bakare was perhaps piqued by Obasanjo’s monumental betrayal of the June 12 cause, as MKO Abiola lost both

himself was lending them every encouragement. It was in the context of this pervasive uncertainty in the weeks leading to the presidential election that I asked Bojuwade to tell Chukwumerije that I needed to see him, persuaded that he would be in a position to help resolve my doubts. I met him at his official residence in Ikoyi, Lagos, in the afternoon of Friday, June 4, 1993, seven days to the presidential election. Dispensing with the usual preliminaries, I asked Chukwumerije pointedly whether the election would hold. He said he could not answer categorically, but that the indications were that there would be no election. He said he was flying to Abuja the next day, Saturday, to return to Lagos the following Tuesday. If I looked him up the day after, he would be in a position to tell me categorically whether the election would hold or not. Chukwumerije did not return to Lagos that Tuesday, and I never saw him again. That very day, the Abuja High Court, Justice Bassey Ikpeme presiding, ordered NEC Chairman Humphrey Nwosu and the Federal Government to appear the following day, June 8, to show why the presidential election scheduled for June 12 should hold. Two days later, on June 10, in the dead of night, Justice Ikpeme issued an injunction blocking the election. But this was not a blanket ban, for she added that NEC was free to ignore her order since, as the law stood, the court lacked jurisdiction in the matter. Against all odds, the election took place. When it seemed clear that Bashorun MKO Abiola of the Social Democratic Party was headed for a landslide victory, Babangida hid behind a battery of suborned judges and revanchist shysters to annul it. Chukwumerije was not a party to the annulment. He first learned of it, I gather, from a reporter who sought his reaction to it. He had dismissed the question as an unseemly joke, until the reporter as-

sured that he was in earnest. But whether he was party to it or not, I had expected Chukwumerije to resign from the Transitional Council, based on the discussions we had held some six months earlier. Not only did he not resign, he championed the annulment with messianic zeal, the kind of fervor with which he had promoted the Biafran cause to stunning success and acclaim. With each passing day, he came across more and more like a Stalinist, bearing little resemblance to the engaging and amiable Marxist Comrade gifted with a rich, sometimes deprecating sense of humour, penetrating insights, a dialectical imagination, and a capacity for friendship across Nigeria’s treacherous cleavages. He dredged up footage on the civil disturbances of the First Republic and on the Nigerian civil war to inflict on the public a psychosis of fear. Listening to broadcasts on Radio Nigeria or watching news and current affairs programmes of the Nigeria Television Authority then, you thought you had been transported back in time to Albania and Radio Tirana in the days of Enver Hoxa. Here, to cite just one example, is the doctrine Chukwumerije enunciated in a meeting with proprietors, no doubt as a warning to the so-called Lagos-Ibadan axis, the critical posture of which he resented passionately: “Publication that subverts the national interest (as defined by the regime) “removes the publisher from the realm of proprietary rights and places him in the terrain of treason”. In another context, he charged that some sections of the press were being suborned “to incite communal mistrust” and hinted that tough new measures were afoot to replace the extant laws that did not provide “adequate regulatory safeguards.” The measures would surface later as Decree 43, a throwback to Tudor’s England. But that dark era does not and cannot define Uche Chukwumerije, who died last week, aged 75. Nor can it define his place in Nigeria’s history. It was but an episode in an otherwise productive and inspiring life of public service. Babangida’s silence at his passing is telling indeed, but it reflects more on the self-styled “evil genius” than on his former cabinet minister who had served him so dutifully. Chukwumerije gave Nigeria its first intellectually oriented pan-African newsmagazine. He was a committed socialist activist, eloquent advocate for the downtrodden, and as a member of the Senate and chair of its Education Committee, a firstrate legislator. Hail and farewell. I drew liberally on my book, Diary of a Debacle, for this column.

•For comments, send SMS to 08111813080

HARDBALL

•Hardball is not the opinion of the columnist featured above

Ecclesiastical spite?

moved on to other power mischiefs that drew his fancy. And the Ebora Owu still dey kampe! But so is the prophet with unfulfilled prophesy; he also is still in business. Indeed, the grace of God is sufficient for all! On the cusp of another historic change of order, the first time the opposition defeated the central sitting government, Pastor Bakare has rolled out another controversial diktat, couched in “prayer”! But strictly, Hardball is not worried about Pastor Bakare. No, not in the least! The scriptures, to which he is totally devoted, has a short-and-sharp riposte to spiritual waywardness from any quarters: it is not what you eat that defiles you, it is rather what comes out of your mouth! Pastor Bakare will be saved or nailed by his own pronouncements. It is rather an appeal to the new Buhari government. Nigerian Christendom, through President Goodluck Jonathan’s evangelical allies in the Ayo Oritsejafor-led Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), actively contributed to the president’s democratic ouster. Gen. Buhari cannot afford such destructive luxury, for it is hard to see how the Buhari government would benefit from Bakare’s prayer of inequity. As for Bakare, Hardball’s friendly advice: keep to church matters; and leave politics to politicians.

his presidential mandate and, eventually, his life. Besides, the trio in the Bakarean drama — MKO, Obasanjo and Bakare — are ethnic Egba. Well, all politics is local! So, perhaps brimming with ecclesiastical rage, the stormy Bakare went ahead to predict — no, that is secular! — prophesy: Obasanjo would somehow not consummate his mandate! That requiem of the futurologist (though of a chartered spiritual hue!), apologies to Prof. Wole Soyinka, held a troubled nation spellbound, and kept Obasanjo friends and fiends on sheer tenterhooks. Well, perhaps that prophesy would come true tomorrow? O, sure! It could well be that more powerful bleat of prayers eventually overthrew that dire prophesy? Or that it had really come to pass since, not a few would reason, after eight years of presidential power, Obasanjo himself had badly unravelled? Or just that God’s grace, which is sufficient for all, just punctured the virtual fatwa. Whatever it was, the notorious fact is that the Ebora Owu did not only consummate his first term, he gifted himself another four years, and, by the third-term gambit, even ogled an illicit third and, after failing, had

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