The Nation April 8, 2014

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VOL. 9, NO. 2812 TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 2014

TR UTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM TRUTH

EKITI 2014

World Bank: Large economy no guarantee for foreign investment

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•EFCC/ICPC merger rejected From Augustine Ehikioya, Abuja

WO government agencies – the National Poverty Eradication Programme (NAPEP) and the Fiscal Responsibility Commission (FRC) – have been scrapped.

Three aviation agencies have been merged into one in the Federal Government’s efforts to streamline its finances. The Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and the Nigerian Continued on page 2

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•Thugs attack Fayemi’s convoy•LP, APC disagree •Aggrieved PDP members to Jonathan: remove Fayose AND MORE •‘Voter card is weapon against retrogression’ •ON PAGE 8

Govt merges three aviation agencies

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•www.thenationonlineng.net

•Finance Minister Okonjo-Iweala

From Nduka Chiejina, Abuja IGERIA’s emergence as the largest economy ed. in Africa and the 26th Nigeria on Sunday anlargest in the world may not nounced the rebasing of its necessarily fling open the door GDP — the first since 1990— for foreign financial inflows, a in which it captured new secWorld Bank top economist tors, such as telecom, music, said yesterday. film production and informaTo attract foreign investors, tion technology.

Nigeria must have Nigeria’s GDP SEE ALSO now stands at favourable policies and prospects, he add- PAGES 4&5 $509.9b as against

South Africa’s $370.3b, thereby making the country’s economy the biggest in Africa.

Speaking yesterday via videoconferencing from Washington DC on the occasion of the launch of Africa’s Pulse, a bi-annual analysis of issues shaping Africa’s economic prospects, World Continued on page 2

Why INEC seeks power to stop candidates, by Jega Violators of campaign ban to be punished

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From Yusuf Alli, Abuja

OLITICIANS jumping the gun to campaign ahead of the 2015 elections will face trial, Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Chairman Attahiru Jega warned yesterday.

Besides, he explained why the commission is seeking an amendment to Section 31, which will empower it to reject nominees for elections.

He also said in spite of security challenges, INEC is hopeful that the 2015 elections will hold in all parts of the country.

For the umpteenth time, Jega reassured the electorate that the 2015 poll timetable will not lead to a bandwagon effect.

He insisted that all elections will not hold in one day next year.

Jega, who made the clarifications while replying to questions at a session with report-

‘ •Prof. Jega

Continued on page 2

Elections can be conducted under situation of emergency; there are countries that have conducted election under situation of emergency

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•Forensic experts gathering materials at Soka in Ibadan, where human body parts and dying people were found…yesterday.

PHOTO: NAN

Forensic experts begin probe of Ibadan ‘horror forest’

•SEE PAGE 9

•PROPERTY P14 •SPORTS P23 •POLITICS P43 •AVIATION P47 •ENERGY P49

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THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 2014

NEWS Govt merges three aviation agencies Continued from page 1

•Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi (middle), Deputy Governor Modupe Adelabu, with awardees during a special reception for teachers, students and schools that have excelled in National competitions in Ado-Ekiti…yesterday

Large economy no guarantee for foreign investment Continued from page 1

Bank Chief Economist, Africa Region, Mr. Francisco Ferreira said: “I think it is great to have a sense of how large the economy is. It (Nigeria) is also the most populous country in the region.

“But going forward, what matters are living standards for everyone and the productivity that generates those living standards. I don’t think investors seeking foreign investment in London, New York, Beijing or Tokyo are looking at GDP statistics nec-

essarily. They are looking at how profitable investments they can make in the country are.”

To Ferreira, being a bigger economy may actually be meaningless if there is no marked improvement in per capita income and living standard of individuals.

His words: “If South Africa wants to worry about anything, they can worry about labour situation, strikes, persistence of inequality: those things make South Africa less attractive. The fact that Nigeria is the largest

economy is not something I can worry about if I were South Africa.”

Lead Economist, World Bank Africa Region, Punam Chuhan-Pole, added that Nigeria’s new economic stature may pose no investment challenge to South Africa which has fallen to the second position by Nigeria’s recent GDP rebasing.

According to her, “in the global economy, the pool of FDI is very large and capital flow is in the trillions. So, the issue of because Nigeria is larger so South Africa is going to get less

in terms of financial flows should not really be a concern.

It depends on the merit of the country itself and the policies and prospects and how investors are viewing all that.”

On a brighter note for Africa as a whole, the report said economic growth in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) continued to rise from 4.7 per cent in 2013 to a forecasted 5.2 per cent in 2014 and the performance would be boosted by rising investment in natural resources, infrastructure and strong household spending.

Meteorological Agency (NIMET) are now to be known as the Federal Civil Aviation Authority (FCAA). Their enabling laws will be amended to reflect the merger.

These are the highlights of the Federal Government’s White Paper on the report of the Steve Oronsaye Presidential Committee on Restructuring and Rationalisation of Federal Government Parastatals, Commissions and Agencies.

The 105-page document dated March, 2014 was made public yesterday.

Oronsaye, a former Head of Service of the Federation, submitted the report of his panel to the government on April 16, 2012. It was referred to the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Mohammed Adoke, before the White Paper was released yesterday.

In all, the panel recommended the scrapping or merger of 270 government agencies. Some of the agencies have been approved for commercialisation and privatisation.

The government rejected the the merger of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Independent and Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) and the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB). The government also rejected the renaming of the Code of Conduct Tribunal to Anti-Corruption Tribunal.

But, it accepted that “the trio of Nigerian Airspace Management Agency, NAMA, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority and the Nigerian Meteorological Agency be merged into a new body to be known as the Federal Civil Aviation Authority (FCAA) and their respective enabling laws be amended accordingly to reflect

the merger.”

It also accepted that the enabling law of the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology be amended and the college restructured.

While maintaining that JAMB should continue to exist as the central examination body for admissions into Nigerian universities, it directs that JAMB must play its regulatory role to ensure that all students for undergraduate admissions into Nigerian universities, including direct entries, must pass through JAMB. The government accepted the recommendation that the Bill seeking for the establishment of NEPAD as an agency of the Federal Government be withdrawn from the National Assembly as there are already laws relating to most of the activities being performed by NEPAD. Accepting that the Utilities Charges Commission be abolished and its enabling law repealed, it directed that the process be initiated by the office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF).

It accepted the recommendation that the National Agricultural Insurance Corporation be fully commercialised and also accepted the recommendation that the passed bill on the Nigeria Agriculture Quarantine Service should not be assented to by the President.

The government also accepted that the practice whereby certain categories of retirees are opting out of contributory pension scheme be stopped, stating that only the military may withdraw from the scheme.

The Veterinary Research Council of Nigeria is to be self-funding. Further budgetary allocation to the council should cease forthwith, the government said. It also Continued on page 59

Why INEC seeks power to stop candidates, by Jega Continued from page 1

ers on “2015 elections in Ni-

geria: Preparations and Challenges”, said INEC would not shield those breaching the Electoral Act 2010(as amended) on campaign.

He said: “There are clear breaches; we have started documenting those breaches.

Those ones, we will try and see whether we can commence prosecution with all the challenges and difficulties.

“But then we will provide additional guidelines that can help provide clarity in terms of what constitute campaign breaches.

“We are now being accused by some parties. For example, some parties will hold rallies and they will say they are receiving people who have decamped.

“Technically, so long as they do not use the platform to say vote for me, they are not violating the law. But people are accusing us that people are moving round; why can’t you penalise them.

“There is really need for that clarity. And we have taken it upon and I am hoping in the next few weeks, we will be able to come up very clearly with new guidelines.

“Still, virtually, all the parties you can find at the highest level who are breaching this. Sometimes, they make an argument when we raise this issue at parties meeting. They said it is our adversaries or our sympathisers who are doing it. They said our adversaries will go and print posters.

“Again, they are just being clever by half because you have various responsibility because if someone puts those pictures, you should not allow it.”

To Jega, it has been difficult

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2015 poll ‘ll be better, says Jonathan

RESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan maintained yesterday that the results of the 2007 presidential election that produced late President Umoru Musa Yar’Adua as the president embarrassed him in the international community.

He promised a batter election in 2015.

Jonathan, who also emerged as the Vice President through the election, said that it was presumed not to be free and fair.

The President spoke while receiving the outcome of the National Stakeholders Forum on Electoral Reform presented to him by former Senate President Ken Nnamani, who is the Chairman of the Ken Nnamani Centre for Leadership and Development.

According to Jonathan, people kept asking him embarrassing questions when he travelled abroad, despite the fact that the Supreme Court had upheld the result.

The embarrassment, he said, made him to decide that he would do better than what was done in 2007, if he had the opportunity to oversee elections.

The President also faulted a situation where restriction is being placed on campaign expenses, stressing that it is not practicable in reality.

He said: “I was embarrassed when the international observers complained that there were certain breaches (in the 2007 polls.)

“Even though after taking oath of office and the Supreme Court declared us winners, but each time one travelled abroad, people asked all kinds of questions that even got one angry.

“That was when I promised myself that if

to allege violation of campaign laws against politicians because “they are skillful”.

“If someone comes out and puts a poster or a billboard that says ‘elect me as governor or president or senator in 2015, that is an outright breach of the law and we have evidence of people who have done that.

“But if people come out and say “An achiever, carry on,” “Continuity assured,” or “Two terms,” you know what they mean but they are very skilful.

What we have agreed with the politicians is that as at now the guidelines are not very clear.”

From Augustine Ehikioya, Abuja have an opportunity to oversee elections in Nigeria, no other President or Vice President should suffer that kind of harassment by the international community.”

He went on: “That is why the 2011 elections, even though I was candidate, I said nobody should manipulate elections for me.

That my ambition and the fate of the country are two different things. The interest of the nation is much more superior than any other ambition and I kept faith with that.”

“At least at the end of that elections, it was accepted by observers locally and internationally. And I promise that 2015 elections will be better.”

Many of the forum’s recommendations, Jonathan said, were not strange as they were in tandem with the government’s thinking.

On the need to punish electoral offenders, Jonathan said: “We need this body so that people who commit electoral offences will not get away with it.”

“After elections, the matter goes to the tribunal. The only person who loses, is the person who contested that election. Any other person, who committed all kinds of atrocities get away with it and nobody punishes them.

“And that is why we continue to have that kind of impunity, but if people ..... for the electoral process those people should be punished and not just about annulling elections.

That was why my committee at a time recommended this election offences commis-

In the INEC chief’s view, the security challenges facing the nation may not affect the 2015 poll because elections can be conducted under an emergency.

He added: “Security challenges are enormous, I do not want to waste a lot of time on this. Whether it is Boko Haram, or kidnapping armed robbery; they are security challenges.

“And elections can be conducted under situation of emergency; there are countries that have conducted election under situation of emergency.

“All we are saying is that if

sion, where we stated that whether elections are annulled or not, there must be process of bringing those who have done one thing or the other, contrary to expectations to book.”

“And when we practise this over a period of time, we will begin to get it right. We must be compelled to be rational as human beings.

On the issue of funding INEC, we will continue to do our best,” he added.

On the issue of campaign expenses, he noted that in some countries, restrictions are only placed on an individual, if such a person gets its fund from the government.

According to him, restriction could not be placed on a fund generated by an individual.

He said: “On campaign finance regulation, I think the electoral laws need to be properly focused on that. I am a realist and I am a practical person and that is why I behave differently. I don’t pretend. I believe that even the laws or even regulations must must not be designed in a way that it will pretend.

Among those on the delegation are Prof.

Ebere Onwudiwe, Executive Director, Ken Nnamani Centre for Leadership and Development, Jacqualine Farris, Diirector General Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Foundation, Michael Harvey, Head, USIAD/Nigeria.

Others include Mrs. Nino Nadiradze, Director, Peace and Democratic Governance, USIAD/Nigeria, Robina Namusisi, Country Director International Republican Institute (IRI), Bem Oga, Program Officer IRI, and Mrs. Uluoma Osuala, the Acting country director the International Foundation for Electoral System (IFES).

you want free, fair and credible elections, they are better conducted when there are minimal security challenges.

Jega explained why INEC is pushing for an amendment to Section 31 of the Electoral Act - to be able to reject nomination of candidates by parties.

He said INEC is not seeking arbitrary powers to disqualify candidates as being insinuated.

“All we are asking the National Assembly to do is to amend Section 31 and to remove the phrase at the end of it which says for any reason for

whatsoever”, he said, adding: “We do not think it is proper, particularly given the fact that Section 87 has already said that candidates should emerge from democratic party primaries, then there is no need to say INEC should not reject nomination for any reason whatsoever.

“If the reason is that the candidate did not emerge from democratic primaries, INEC should be able to reject that candidate. That is all we are asking as regards to that. But, unfortunately in this kind of discussion, people were say-

•Dr. Jonathan

ing that INEC is demanding more powers. And that is not the issue.

“I will give you an example, if you leave that section, you know what happened in the past, like the Shugaba Abdulrahman’s kind of case. The constitution says only Nigerians can stand for an election. If we are not careful, if that provision stands, the way our parties are going, they may put foreigners on the ballot and INEC cannot reject it for any reason whatsoever, which is ridiculous.

“All we are saying is that there should be sanity and consistency. Section 87 is beautiful.

We want to democratize; we want to deepen democracy; we want internal party democracy. So, it is good that Section 87 said candidates should emerge from democratic party primaries. So, why throw that away with the provision that says INEC cannot reject candidates for any reason whatsoever.

“And we have seen (as I have Continued on page 59

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THE NATION TUESDAY APRIL 8, 2014

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NEWS

Divergent views

•Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Prof Viola Onwuliri speaking at the second session of Nigeria-Pakistan Joint Ministerial Commission in Abuja...yesterday. With him is Pakistani Minister of Petroleum and Natural Resources, Mr Shahid Abbasi

• Dr Okonjo-Iweala

With the rebasing Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by the Federal Government, Nigeria is now said to be the biggest economy in Africa and 26th in the world.

But experts hold varied views on the implications of a recalculated GDP for the economy and the welfare of the citizenry, reports the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).

•National Programme Manager, Federal Public Administration Reform Programme, Mr Ben Arikpo (left); Secretary, National Planning Commission, Mr Fidelis Ugbo and Director, Micro, National Planning Commission, Mr Tunde Lawal, at a workshop on Policy Skill Gap Assessment in Federal MDAS in Abuja...yesterday.

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OME financial and maritime stakeholders yesterday expressed divergent views on the 510-billion-dollar (N80.3 trillion) worth of the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), announced on April 6 by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).

The experts in interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos praised the Federal Government for rebasing the GDP, in line with the nation’s economic growth and its potential. The Federal Ministry of Finance on April 6 declared Nigeria as the largest economy in Africa, with the new rebased GDP of $510 billion. Dr Uju Ugubunka, Executive Secretary, Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN), said the rebasing would ena-

ble the government to redesign the nation’s economic policies.

He said despite the infrastructural challenges confronting the country, the current GDP has indicated that “the nation is one of the best investment designations in this part of the world.” Alhaji Rasheed Yussuf, Managing Director, Trust Yield Securities Ltd, Lagos, said that the rebasing would attract more foreign investments to the country. He said that the development would also increase the nation’s window for foreign borrowing. According to him, foreign lenders will be more willing to lend to the country for infrastructural development.

Malam Garba Kurfi, Managing Director, APT Securities and Funds Ltd,

Nigerians live worse than before, says Okonjo-Iweala L-R: Sector Commander, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Edo State, Sir Luka Umar Ikpi; Plant Manager, Benin Brewery, Guinness Nigeria, Mr Kingsley Imade; Zonal Commanding Officer, FRSC Zone 5, Benin City, Assistant Corps Marshal Nseobong Akpabio and Zonal Head of Operations, FRSC Zone 5, Benin City, Sobowale Gbenga at the Road Safety and Responsible Drinking Easter Awareness Campaign organised by Guinness in partnership with the FRSC, Edo State

•L-R: Senior Project Officer, Lagos Empowerment and Resource Network (L.E.A.R.N), Mrs. Tonne Saheed; Specialist, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), Etisalat Nigeria, Mrs. Tola Oduyemi; Director, Education District 1, Lagos State, Mrs Doyin Oyelowo and Principal, Girls Senior School, Agege, Mrs. Elizabeth Osadola at the 10th Etisalat Career Counseling at Treasure-M Hall, Iyana Ipaja, Lagos

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From Nduka Chiejina (Assistant Editor), Abuja

ITH the new recalculation of Nigeria’s GDP, the Federal Government has warned Nigerians not to jubilate because what the rebasing figures have thrown up means Nigerians “live worse than before.”

The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister for the Economy Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala sounded this note of caution yesterday in Abuja at the inauguration of the Federal Inland Revenue Services (FIRS) multi-disciplinary training centre.

According to Dr. Okonjo-Iweala, “we live worse than before. Those who want to think that we just need large GDP to live well, is not true because, by this ratio, it doesn’t look so good.”

The ratio she was referring to was the tax revenue to GDP ratio that is contained in the rebased figures of the GDP. Nigeria’s new GDP figures saw tax revenue to GDP ratio declined to about 12 per cent and four per cent for non-oil tax to revenue as against the pre-rebasing figures of 22 per cent for tax to GDP ratio and seven per cent for the non oil tax revenue to GDP ratio.

She stated that “Nigeria is confronted with many constraints when attempting to increase tax revenues. We have just celebrated the fact that Nigeria has now become the largest economy in Africa with N80 trillion of GDP ($509.9bn), which makes us the 26th largest economy in the world and advances us on our goal to become one of the 20 largest economies in the world. But I want to tell you that there is one piece of the news that is not so cheering. With the increase in GDP, all our revenue ratios have been recalculated.”

To the tax collectors, she directed that “for tax revenue to GDP, we now have to redouble our efforts to get back to the 20 per cent ratio at least that we were before and I want all of us to rise up to the challenge with the continuous improvement on the capacity of tax official through training in the modern method of auditing of companies.” Dr. Okonjo-Iweala then instructed the Federal Inland Revenue Services (FIRS) to increase Nigeria’s tax revenue to GDP ratio to 20 per cent. Earlier in his address, the Acting Chairman of the FIRS, Alhaji Kabir Mashi, disclosed that the training institute, which was built at a cost of N800m, would be upgraded to a full-fledged department to be headed by a director, and the training centre would be made available for taxpayer’s education.

THE NATION TUESDAY APRIL 8, 2014

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NEWS

trail Nigeria’s increased GDP profile Fitch: No rating impact despite scale of Nigeria’s GDP uplift

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Dr. Yemi Kale

Lagos, said that the rebasing would increase the nation’s ranking in the international market. He urged the Federal Government to develop other sectors of the economy, especially agriculture, to boost the economy, adding that there is the need for capital market regulators to intensify strategies aimed at bringing in more companies into the market. Kurfi also noted that the capital market’s contribution of 26 per cent to the GDP was not good enough.

An economist, Mr Victor Ogiemwonyi, Managing Director, Partnership Investment Ltd, Lagos, said that the new GDP data would reflect the actual position of the country’s economy. He lauded the NBS for capturing the informal sector in the new index. NAN reports that GDP rebasing is a normal statistical procedure to ensure that national statistics present the most accurate reflection of an economy. He added that the development would boost the Nigerian financial market because foreign investors would be interested in the nation’s economy. Ogiewonyi said that the new GDP would also make portfolio investors see Nigeria as an investment destination.

The Director-General of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Mr Muda Yusuf, said that the development revealed the new structure of the Nigerian economy.

He, however, urged Nigerians to be cautious while celebrating because of the weak revenue base of the government. The LCCI boss said that the lower ratio should not be allowed to encourage increased deficit spending or increased borrowing. “The LCCI is in agreement with the Coordinating Minister for the Economy, Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala’s position that the lower ratio should not be seen as reason to increase borrowing. It is also significant that the rebased GDP has thrown up the very important issue of growing inequality in the Nigerian economy. This underlines the need for urgent steps to reduce poverty and inequality. Due to the new GDP data, it is clear that the economy has the capacity to make this happen,” he added NAN reports that players in the maritime sector reacted differently to the rebasing of the nation’s GDP. The Rector, Certified Institute of Shipping, Dr Alex Okwashi, urged government to properly analyse the various sectors’ contribution to GDP. He said that while the GDP rebasing was encouraging, the poor capturing of the mari-

time sector was disheartening. Okwashi said that if the balance of trade was well analysed, it would have been obvious that the contribution of the maritime sector would have been higher. “You must understand that the maritime sector is the highest foreign exchange earner and should be so rated. You cannot convert any resource of any country if you don’t trade with it. If petroleum is seen as huge earner, it is only so because it must be transported to the international market where it will be paid for,” he said.

The Chairman of the Port Consultative Council, Chief Kunle Folarin, also urged government to elaborate more on the benefits of GDP rebasing to the economy and the Nigerian citizenry.

He said that the rebasing showed that the nation’s economy was now more diversified. Mr Pius Ujubuonu, Chairman, Shipping Companies and Terminal Operation Committee of Customs Agents, urged government to ensure that the rebasing impact on the lives of Nigerians. Another maritime stakeholder, Mr Fidelis Elijah, Chief Executive Officer, Siaemf International Ltd, Lagos, said that the new GDP should reflect on the health, infrastructure, education and maritime sectors.

Chief Lawrence Uba, member, Igbo Maritime Forum, also called on the government to ensure that the benefits of the new G D P were used t o turn around t h e f o r tunes of the ports.

He said that there had been marginal development at the ports since its concession in 2006. Uba said that measures should be put in

•Dr Jonathan

place to ensure that the maritime sector contributed maximally to the GDP. Mr Uchu Block, Secretary-General, National Council of Managing Directors of Licensed Customs Agents, urged the government to revive the nation’s unfriendly business environment. He said that the challenging business environment, high inflation rate and port congestion, among others, contradicted the description of the Nigerian economy as the largest in Africa. “They (government) should look at port congestion, which is looming and the high cost of doing business in Nigeria. They should know that investments cannot be encouraged under this kind of conditions,” he said.

Similarly, Nnaemeka Obiareari, Managing Director, Tarux Capital and Advisory Services, Lagos, said the increase had not positively affected the lives of the citizenry. According to him, the average Nigerian still lives below the poverty line. “Majority of our people are still not living a good life and so people are bound to wonder what is in it for the masses. We are tired of government giving us improved economic indicators, without it positively affecting our standards of living,” he added.

A small business owner, Mr Bode Adewale, said that in spite of the figures, entrepreneurs in the country were not making profit.

He added that the operational cost of energy had impacted negatively o n small scale businesses in the country. “The price of petrol is becoming unbearable, and many entrepreneurs are finding it difficult to contend with it,” he added.

IGERIA’s large-scale GDP rebasing has a mixed impact on key sovereign rating metrics, and therefore no automatic implications for Nigeria’s BB-/ Stable sovereign rating, Fitch Ratings has said. It could, however, boost investor sentiment and that is likely to support the sovereign credit profile over the longer term.

The GDP uplift affects some key rating metrics positively and some negatively.

2013 per capita GDP rises by 89% to USD2,900 on Fitch’s calculations. But it remains below both the ‘BB’ and ‘B’ category peer group medians of USD4,528 and USD3,841, respectively. It is also below similarly rated oil exporters Gabon (USD10,688) and Angola (USD 5,703).

Per capita GDP ranking relative to other countries is more important in our sovereign rating methodology than the absolute level. Nigeria overtakes just three Fitchrated sovereigns - Vietnam (B+), Philippines (BBB-) and Bolivia (BB-) - following the uplift. The other main positive impact is on public debt indicators, which are already a rating strength and now look even stronger. 2013 debt-to-GDP drops to 11.6% from 22% and the average deficit-to-GDP ratio is just 1.4% over the past three years (both calculated on a general government basis). However, Nigeria’s low non-oil fiscal revenue now looks even lower at just 3.8% of GDP (2013 Fitch estimate).

The GDP uplift puts some other key metrics in a poorer light. The 2013 current account surplus shrinks to 4.1% of GDP (and is likely to be overstated given the large errors and omissions in the balance of payments). Foreign direct investment drops to less than 1% of GDP, among the lowest in the region. Broad money - a proxy for financial market development and banking sector penetration - also declines, from one-third of GDP to less than one-fifth of GDP. A number of other developmental indicators included in the UN’s Human Development Index - such as education and health outcomes - are unchanged, as are relatively weak World Bank governance and business environment indicators. 2013 real GDP growth was higher than previously estimated, with the Nigerian Bureau of Statistics (NBS) revising its estimate up to 7.4% from 6.9%. However, a lower estimate for 2011 meant that real annual GDP growth was slightly lower for the 20112013 rebased period as a whole (6.4%, from 7%), though still well above rating peers.

The new series therefore shows more variability in GDP growth despite the more diversified economy revealed in the new national accounts, with a larger services and manufacturing sector (52.3% and 6.8% of GDP, respectively) and a smaller agricultural (22%) and oil sector (14.4%). So the rebasing exercise itself has no rating impact overall.

Nevertheless, the results are likely to be credit positive in the longer term as perceptions of Nigeria as an investment destination improve. The rebasing also highlights the importance of data quality, which is taken into account in the rating process.

The NBS yesterday released the results of a major overhaul and update of Nigeria’s national accounts, including shifting the base year forward by 20 years to 2010.

This allows the better capture of a number of economic sectors which have appeared over this period. This uplift raises Nigerian GDP in USD terms in 2013 to USD504bn on Fitch calculations, making it the largest economy in Africa, and the 26th-largest in the world on World Bank calculations.

•This piece was first published in Reuters yesterday

‘It is a matter of figures’

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By Collins Nweze

hartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) former President Okechkwu Unegbu said the rebasing should ordinarily make Nigerians proud, but the nature of the economy and standard of living for the common man have made it only a matter of figures.

He said comparing Nigeria with South Africa is not feasible, adding that the later surpasses Nigeria in all ramifications. He said the standard of living in South Africa is higher than in Nigeria, while there is also a higher level of corruption in Nigeria than in South Africa.

The former CIBN boss said Nigeria is ranked 139th of 176 countries in Transparency International’s 2012 Corruption Perceptions Index, and tied with Azerbaijan, Kenya, Nepal, and Pakistan. This, he added, should give government serious concern rather than rebasing. “Honestly, we should be proud but it’s a matter of figures. There is higher standard of living in South Africa than in Nigeria. I don’t see how the newly rebased GDP can impact on the common man,” Unegbu said.

He said that the other 25 countries before Nigeria have good economy with productive private sector, emphasizing that the quality of service in the telecom sector is still poor, while consumers cannot access credit for household goods, and mortgage financing is almost unavailable in Nigeria. He said government should address social and economic imbalance in the country, adding that the figures are just political gimmicks. This perhaps prompted him to ask: “What are we big figures for? It does not translate to quality of life.”

An economist, Henry Boyo, said although the GDP is bigger, it is unlikely to bring any benefit to the common man. He said: “I am struggling to find the benefits of this government’s action on the common man. It can only help foreign investors to have a better view of the Nigerian economy.” He said the rebasing will attract Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), but government should also ensure that other disincentives to FDI like multiple taxation is corrected.

“Investment in Nigerian bonds and treasury bills will rise. Foreign investors will see these instruments as more secured,” he said. While nominal GDP, which has its uses, is the sum value of all produced goods and services at current prices, real GDP is more widely used and is slightly different as it’s the sum value of all produced goods and services at constant prices and is useful for showing how the economy changes in size and - with some further manipulation - how average living standards change over time.

Bismark Rewane, an economist and boss of Financial derivatives Company (FDC), explained that GDP is the market value of all final goods and services produced within a country, calculated using product, income and expenditure approaches. The FDC boss said real GDP is one that is adjusted for inflation while nominal GDP is the value of goods and services based on current market prices. He further explained that Gross National Product (GNP) measures the value of goods and services produced by a country’s citizens regardless of their location while Gross National Income (GNI) is GDP plus income receipts minus income payments from the rest of the world.

THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 2014

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NEWS Fashola’s wife, cleric call for peace

By Nneka Nwaneri

THE wife of the Lagos State governor, Dame Abimbola Fashola, and a cleric, Pastor Ituah Ighodalo, have urged Nigerians to share love to earn God’s favours and enjoy peace.

Mrs Fashola noted that Nigeria would regain its lost glory, if the people uplifted one another.

The governor’s wife said peace was central to development, adding that the country would not develop without the people living in peace and sharing love among one another.

Ighodalo, who is the Senior Pastor of Trinity House Church, advised Nigerians to renew their hope for the country to reclaim its past glory.

This, he said, could only be achieved when the governed compel those in authority to do the right thing.

The cleric stressed that the governed have to always speak out and search for the right people to occupy public positions.

Mrs Fashola and Ighodalo spoke in Lagos after a special thanksgiving service where they celebrated a joint birthday at the Trinity House Church.

The governor’s wife turned 49 and the cleric 53.

New Maggi Chicken Cube launched

By Tonia ‘Diyan and Ibrahim Adam

NESTLE Nigeria Plc, makers of Maggi cube, has launched a new flavour of the product, ‘The New Maggi Chicken Cube’.

It is all part of the effort to improve the company’s products and make them tastier, healthier and affordable with better nutritional value, the company said.

Addressing reporters at its Ilupeju, Lagos office, Category Business Manager (Culinary) Guy Kellaway said the brand would always bring the best products to its consumers.

He said: “With the new Maggi Chicken Cube added to our seasoning range, we aim to deliver the best chicken seasoning in the market, delighting our consumers and maintaining the highest levels of quality that Maggi is known for.”

The new product contains iodine, salt and iron, perfect colour, inviting aroma and irresistible taste.

Kellaway said the product could be used for rice and other dishes.

He stressed that beyond what consumers wanted, the company would ensure it gained their trust and loyalty.

Also, the company’s Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Dharnesh Gordhon said: “We have always considered how to deliver the brand’s promise on nutrition, health and wellness.

“We like to keep our promise, to improve the nutrition foundation across our portfolio. We have reduced the amount of those nutrients that have negative effect on health when consumed in excess and added food components and nutrients required to maintain good health.”

PDP suit: Nyako, Amaechi, others urge court to void service on them

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DAMAWA State Governor Murtala Nyako and his counterparts in Rivers, Sokoto, Kano and Kwara states, Rotimi Amaechi, Aliyu Wamakko, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso and Abdulfatah Ahmed, yesterday asked a Federal High Court in Abuja to set aside the service of processes on them in the suit brought against them by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

They also prayed the court to set aside the ex-parte order of December 13, last year, in which it granted leave to the PDP to serve the processes on them by pasting the documents on the walls of the headquarters of the All Progressives Congress (APC) at 6 Bissau Street, Abuja.

The governors argued that court was misled by the PDP into granting the order because the address given, and on which basis the court granted the order, was wrong. They contended that “6 Bissau Street” was not the office of the APC. The governors urged the court to refuse a motion on notice by the PDP, seeking the leave of the court to serve them through substituted means by serving the processes on the liaison offices of the governors’ states in Abuja.

They described the fresh motion as strange to legal procedures.

Their lawyers - John Baiyeshea (SAN) for Nyako; Fidelis Oditah (SAN) for Amaechi; Awa Kalu (SAN) for Wamakko; Yusuf Ali (SAN) for Kwankwaso and Akin Olujinmi (SAN) for Ahmed made the requests while arguing their applications before the court yesterday.

The PDP is seeking to sack the governors, who defected to the APC last year from the ruling party.

•‘PDP’s fresh motion for service strange’ From Eric Ikhilae, Abuja

Baiyeshea argued that since the address provided the court was wrong, “there cannot be said to be a valid order for substituted service”.

The lawyer averred that PDP’s claim that the address was supplied by the court’s bailiff was immaterial.

“What we are saying is that as December 13 (2013), when the court granted the order ex-parte for substituted service, the address of the given for service was wrong,” he said.

Baiyeshea urged the court to set aside the service and the order on which the service was made.

Oditah argued that the conflict in the address contained in the order of December 13 and the fact that the court’s bailiff, who made the service, claimed to have served it on 40 Valentine Street, was an admission that the service was not effected as ordered by the court.

The lawyer said PDP’s decision to file a new motion for substituted service on the states’ liaison offices in Abuja was an admission that the earlier service was wrong.

He contended that it was wrong for the court to have granted an order for a substituted service on his client, who neither resided nor lived within the court’s jurisdiction.

Oditah faulted the PDP’s claim that it served the processes on the defendants by pasting them on the last known office of the APC. The lawyer averred that the suit, which sought to remove his client from office, was directed at him in person and not any

political party.

He contended that the proper place for service of processes on his client was the Government House in the state, where the governor lived and performed his official responsibilities.

Oditah argued that the preconditions needed for an order of substituted means were not met by the plaintiff.

The lawyer prayed the court to vacate the order made wrongly on December 13, last year, set aside the purported service of processes on his client and to refuse the PDP’s fresh motion on notice for a substituted serve.

Kalu urged the court to void service effected on his client on the ground that by the information contained in the affidavit of service filed by the court’s bailiff, it was obvious that the bailiff served on a wrong address different from that ordered by the court. He argued that the bailiff’s action amounted to a disobedience of the court’s order.

Ali and Olujimi also argued in similar manner and prayed the court to also refuse a fresh motion on notice by the PDP for leave to effect substituted service on the defendants through their states’ liaison offices in Abuja.

They argued that the fresh motion was an admission by the plaintiff that their earlier service was wrongly done. They argued that the plaintiff’s claim that their motion was intended to effect additional service was strange and amounted to an abuse of court’s process.

But the plaintiff’s lawyer, Damian Dodo (SAN), argued that the earlier service on the defendants were in order.

The lawyer said the service, having been duly effected on the

defendants, the plaintiff’s fresh motion for substituted service was an addition to serve the defendants.

He argued that his client ought to be commended for taking the extra step to effect additional service on the defendants, who are protesting earlier service.

Dodo prayed the court to disregard the arguments by the defendants that their fresh application was strange and that it ought to be by an ex-parte application.

The lawyer averred that there was nothing “esoteric or ritualistic about service”.

He said the service was only intended to inform the defendant about the pendency of a case against him/her in court and the need for him/her to enter defence.

“Our motion on notice is a deft reaction to the peculiar situation we have found ourselves,” Dodo said.

The lawyer argued that there is not a known legal authority to prove that they were in error by taking such steps.

He said although he agreed with the defendants’ argument that they live outside Abuja, the plaintiff has shown that the governors’ states have liaison offices in Abuja though which they could be served court processes since they receive other correspondences through the same means.

He urged the court to hold that proper service has been effected on the defendants.

He also urged the court to grant the plaintiff’s fresh application for service on the defendants through their liaison offices in Abuja.

Justice Gabriel Kolawole adjourned ruling on the matter till May 23.

President Goodluck Jonathan (right) receiving the report of the National Stakeholders’ Forum on Electoral Reform from Senator Ken Nnamani, Chairman, Ken Namani Centre for Leadership and Development, in Abuja...yesterday PHOTO: NAN

Nigeria’s fish import ban angers WTO

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•Global body angry about trade restrictions

IGERIA may lose billions of naira in fines to be imposed by the World Trade Organisation (WTO) over the nation’s trade restrictions, it was learnt yesterday.

The global trade regulatory body is angry with the country for stopping fish importation.

The WTO threatened to penalise Nigeria, if the country fails to remove the trade restric-

By Olamilekan Andu

tions imposed by the Federal Ministry of Agriculture.

In a unilateral measure in which it allegedly alienated the Ministry of Trade and Investment, the Fisheries Department under the Federal Ministry of Agriculture has approved a ban on the im-

portation of fish.

In a letter conveying the ban on fish importation dated November 28, 2013 by the Acting Director of Fisheries, Foluke Areola, the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development announced to the Embassy of the Argentina Republic that fish import had been stopped.

In the letter, Areola wrote: “The pronouncements were to avail the country of the needed time and opportunity for a total clean-up and review of existing procedures and lapses with a view of establishing a better system that will considerably reduce and control the existing sharp practices in the system.”

Magazine holds marketing summit NIGERIA’s leading brands and marketing-oriented magazine, Marketing Edge, will, on April 11, hold a stakeholders’ summit and legacy award night at the Federal Palace Hotel, Ikoyi, Lagos.

Both events are among the celebrations marking the magazine’s decade of operations.

The theme of the summit is: Exploding the Myths of Advertising and Marketing Communications Industry in Nigeria. It will hold in the morning.

A renowned professional marketer, who is also a leading icon in the integrated marketing communications industry in Nigeria, Mr George Thorpe, will deliver the summit’s keynote address.

The Chairman of Troyka Group, Mr Biodun Shobanjo, will be the chairman of the occasion.

The awards, which are in various categories, will be given to eminent marketers, including former MTN Marketing Director, Mr. Bola Akingbade and the Chairman, MediaReachOMD, Mr. George Thorpe. They will receive Lifetime Marketing Achievement Awards.

Ekweremadu to speak at Johns Hopkins From Sanni Onogu, Abuja

DEPUTY Senate President and Chairman of the Senate Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution, Ike Ekweremadu, will, on Monday, April 14, speak on Constitution Amendment in an Emerging Democracy: The Nigerian Experience, at the Johns Hopkins University, Washington DC, United States.

A statement yesterday in Abuja by the Special Adviser on Media to the Deputy Senate President, Uche Anichukwu, said Ekweremadu was invited by the Paul H. Nitze School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS) in Washington, DC. The statement quoted a letter by the Director of African Studies Programme, Prof. Peter Lewis, to have said that Ekweremadu’s invitation was in line with SAIS’ tradition of hosting “prominent speakers, including heads of state, governors, cabinet ministers, and prominent public intellectuals from across the globe”.

The statement added: “The university hinges its invitation to Senator Ekweremadu on his role as a member of the Senate leadership and the Chairman of the Senate Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution.

“The letter says Ekweremadu’s ‘prominent role as a leader of the Senate in Nigeria will undoubtedly prompt a very interested audience of students, policy makers, private sector participants and the NGO community in Washington DC’. “...Ekweremadu spearheaded the first successful amendment of the 1999 Constitution after several failed attempts.

THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 2014

7

NEWS

Lawmakers back death sentence for financial crimes •Nigeria may be suspended from Egmont Group From Grace Obike, Abuja

SOME senators and House of Representatives members have supported the death sentence or stiffer punishment for financial crimes.

They said the capital punishment option was worth considering because countries like China and Singapore, which adopted the law, have corruption rate reduced the lowest level.

The lawmakers said the Nigerian law encouraged corruption by sentencing corrupt public officials to just six months’ imprisonment after they would have stolen billions of naira.

They said this should be stopped with stiffer penalties against acts of malfeasance.

The lawmakers spoke yesterday in Abuja at a two-day retreat of the Senate and House of Representatives Committees on Drugs, Narcotics and Financial Crimes with the theme: Tackling Corruption Through Credible Legislation.

The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Drugs, Narcotics and Financial Crimes, Victor Lar, said the retreat would enable the lawmakers rub minds and reach a consensus on what would constitute the report to be laid before both houses for the Presidential Bill on the Act to Establish a Financial Intelligence Centre.

The senator said the lawmakers planned to review the principles and merits of the bills by examining international best practices as obtained in other countries.

Lar said: “...China has adopted the death penalty and corruption has been knocked down to the barest minimum.

So also has Singapore and other countries. So, I believe it is something worth considering.

“Going beyond that, everybody who is living visibly above his means will be requested to come and account for what he has. Until we get to that point, the frustration in the polity about the perversity of corruption and the mindbugling sums that are taken from the public purse will continue to agitate the minds of Nigerians. I believe these are some of the measures that can be taken.

* Former Chairman, Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Mr Kayode Naiyeju (second left); FIRS Acting Executive Chairman, Alhaji Kabir Mashi (third left); Minister of Finance, Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala (middle) and other officials at the inauguration of FIRS Training Centre in Abuja...yesterday. PHOTO:NAN

Conference decisions may amount to nothing, says Senate Leader U NLESS there is a law authorising referendum, decisions reached by the National Conference may amount to nothing, Senate Leader Victor Ndoma-Egba, said yesterday.

Ndoma-Egba, who represents Cross River Central told reporters in Calabar that if the conference report is submitted to the National Assembly, it would be subjected to the normal indepth study because there is no provision in the 1999 constitution for a referendum.

He said: “The conference’s decisions may suffer a further devastating blow which may confine them to the cooler for want of amendment of the constitution to provide for a referendum.

“Many sections of the constitution are being considered for amendment given their shortcomings.

But the process is not easy, considering the many consultations that need to be made to avoid repeating the mistakes the military made

S

ENATE President David Mark yesterday said the National Assembly will defend issues that engender peace and unity in Nigeria.

A statement yesterday in Abuja by the Senate President’s Chief Press Secretary Paul Mumeh said Mark spoke at the Senator Nurudeen Abatemi-Usman Initiative Empowerment programme in Okene, Kogi

when it fashioned out the statute book in its twilight.”

Senator Chris Ngige (Anambra Central) said National Conference would be a waste of time if the nominees politicise discussions.

“Well, I will start by saying that I have reserved comments on the conference because for me, I know it is a waste of time, energy and resources of the country. This is because I have studied the formats and templates for the conference and I cannot see anything different from the Olusegun Obasanjo 2004– 2005 conference which, at the end of the day, produced nothing.

“If you remember very well, I was the governor then and I nominated people to the conference.

The President did his own nomination. At the end of the day, they met.

“So, for me, instead of wasting time and money and energy, they should go and dust up the report on Obasanjo’s conference.

“It is good to talk, but to go and spend N7 billion for talking is an expensive talk.

It will yield no fruit.

“You also know that whatever the conference produces has to pass through the process of constitutional amendments, which is again where the National Assembly comes in.

“If you make any recommendation that sections of the constitution must be amended, the only authority conferred with the powers to amend the constitution is the National Assembly and the Houses of Assembly concurring with National Assembly with two-thirds of their membership. That is the only way you can amend the constitution.”

On the floor of the conference yesterday, delegates

National Assembly won’t compromise Nigeria’s interest, says Mark From Sanni Onogu, Abuja

•Mark

From Nicholas Kalu, Calabar, Emeka Odogwu Emeka, Nmewi

State.

Mark said the Legislature had no conflicting roles with the Executive.

The Senate President said dividends of democracy would be faster delivered if the Legislature and the Executive worked together for the benefit of the citizenry.

He stressed the need to avoid frictions among government functionaries so that the electorate could benefit from government programmes and policies.

Apparently referring to the recent security challenges in which scores of Nigerians were killed, Mark called for peaceful coexistence among Nigerians.

He said: “There has to be peace for us to talk about development at any point. The government alone cannot guarantee peace; it is the cooperation of all us, irrespective of our political parties, that can bring peaceful coexistence.”

The Senate President noted that there was need for elected public officers to work together by deemphasising political affiliations “because political parties are mere vehicles to be elected for service to the people”.

Kogi State Governor Idris Wada hailed Abatemi-Usman for the initiative.

He said the senator’s efforts had complimented his administration’s

programmes in alleviating the plight of the ordinary citizens.

Wada said AbatemiUsman had kept his electioneering campaign promises to the electorate, adding: “The action is fulfilling and reassuring.”

Abatemi-Usman said he was committed to the welfare of the people of his district.

The senator said the empowerment scheme included human capital development, especially for the youths.

About 1,207 persons and groups got cars, buses, motorcycles, sewing machines, video cameras, generators, among others, at the ceremony.

expressed apprehension over the spate of kidnapping in parts of the country.

They resolved to urged the Federal Government to stem the spate of kidnapping in the interest of the country.

Dr Bello Mohammed, who raised the issue, referred to the abduction of the son of Chief Edwin Clark by gunmen.

Clark is one of the elder statesmen at the conference.

Mohammed also said in Zamfara State, about 120 people were killed in cold blood at the weekend.

The need to free the local governments from the governors also became an issue at the conference.

Delegates who commented on the inaugural address of President Goodluck Jonathan decried the near moribund status of local governments in the country.

For the delegates, immediate steps should be taken to restore the autonomy of local governments to enable them serve the purpose for which they were created.

The delegates also said machinery should be put in motion to create jobs for idle youths.

As has been the case, insecurity got the attention of the delegates. They urged the Federal Government to address the problem.

General Zamani Lekwot said true independence should be granted local governments to free them from governors.

He noted that granting local governments au-

tonomy would make them work better.

Lekwot, who urged delegates to bury their prejudices and differences, said the conference has to revisit the state and local government creation to bring government nearer to the people.

General A. B. Mamman said the country’s problems were too serious to be considered within three months.

He added: “Since we are here, we should make the best use of the opportunity.”

Mamman called attention to the rumour that the National Assembly planned to sabotage the work of the conference.

Another rumour, he said, was that there was a hidden agenda to extend President Goodluck Jonathan’s tenure.

Mamman urged the leadership of the conference to resist the temptation of asking for additional time for the conference to avoid confirming the fear of tenure elongation.

Senator Anthony Adefuye described Nigerians as “very corrupt”.

He noted that if the conference was able to tackle the problem of corruption, it would have achieved something.

Deputy Chairman of the conference, Prof. Bolaji Akinyemi, jocularly said: “All those who classify all Nigerians as corrupt will be denied food for three days.”

PUBLIC NOTICE

MALCOLM I, formerly known and addressed as Mrs Muinat Olawunmi Malcolm now wish to be known and addressed as Miss Muinat Olawunmi Williams. All former documents remain valid. Guaranty Trust Bank and general public should please take note.

8

THE NATION TUESDAY APRIL 8, 2014

NEWS EKITI 2014

Voter card is weapon against retrogression, says Fayemi

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KITI State Governor Kayode Fayemi has warned the electorate not to misuse their voter cards, describing the cards as their weapons of fighting backwardness.

Fayemi spoke in Ekiti East Local Government Area yesterday while campaigning for the June 21 governorship election.

He said: “Your voter card is very important. Keep it very well. It is your weapon to saying no to retrogression.”

The governor said the electorate must stand firm and resist the urge to be bought by “unscrupulous politicians”, adding: “The future of the state would be better assured if you insist on truth and vote for the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the sustenance of the peace and progress in the state.”

He thanked the people for coming out en masse to the campaign venues, noting: “The struggle for the safety of Ekiti State from the band of locusts is a collective one. I have said it time and again that eternal vigilance is the price for freedom.”

Addressing a crowd at Ilasa-Ekiti, Fayemi expressed concern about the “disturbing trend” of inconclusive elections across the country, citing examples of a House of Assembly election in Imo State, the Anambra State governorship election and last Saturday’s House of Representatives by-election in Ondo State.

He said Ekiti would not accept an inconclusive election, adding: “Let us vote massively and protect our votes. Men, women, youths, everybody must be vigilant. Ekiti will

A

Governor’s convoy attacked by thugs

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HE convoy of Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi was attacked yesterday in Ado-Ekiti, the state capital, by suspected Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) thugs.

The attack occurred around 6pm when the governor and his supporters were returning to Ado-Ekiti from a campaign rally in Ekiti-East Local Government Area.

It was learnt that over 100 thugs emerged from former Governor Ayo Fayose’s Campaign Office, throwing stones and bottles at the governor’s convoy.

The Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr. Olayinka Oyebode, in a statement, said the governor restrained his security aides and All Progressives Congress (APC) members from retaliating.

Some APC members were injured and the windshields of their vehicles smashed.

The incident occurred barely a week after the April 1 attack on some APC supporters by suspected PDP thugs at Adebayo in the state capital.

Also yesterday, the Labour Party (LP) alleged that suspected APC members attacked its campaign train in Isan, Iye and Ilawe at the weekend.

It said live ammunition, machetes, axes and stones were used by the hoodlums on its members, who were “campaigning peacefully” for the party’s flag bearer, Mr. Opeyemi Bamidele.

In a statement, LP said: “Our campaign bus was shattered and battered In Isan-Ekiti, same at Ilawe-Ekiti. At Iye-Ekiti, one of our youth leaders was injured with a machete and hospitalised.

From Sulaiman Salawudeen, Ado-Ekiti

never go back; we are moving forward.”

Fayemi said Ekiti had witnessed peace in the last three-and-a-half years of his administration and he would never encourage any act that could truncate the peace.

He urged APC members and supporters to always embrace peace and show this at the election.

The campaign train also touched Ikun-Oba, Araromi-Ugbeshi and Kota.

Araromi-Oke, the community’s Youth Leader, Aremu Jimoh, who

•LP, APC disagree From Sulaiman Salawudeen, Ado-Ekiti

“We draw the attention of the Federal Government, the Inspector-General of Police, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies, as well as the good and peace-loving people of Ekiti, to call Dr. Kayode Fayemi and his party to order before they start another orgy of violence and bloodletting.”

Spokesman of the Kayode Fayemi Campaign Organisation Dimeji Daniels refuted the allegations, saying: “We invite the police to investigate these lies to know who is preparing for the coming election as if it is a war. Trying to curry undue favour from the electorate, who have resolved to vote for Fayemi in the June 21 election, will not serve any of our opposition underdogs a useful purpose.

“We have said the campaign should be based on issues. Fayemi has kept to this. Our organisation has also kept to this. We do not have any reason to go off that path of decency and principle because we have more than enough issues to deal with and campaign about.

“Ekiti is one beautiful bride today because of the many packages of development and better living instituted by Fayemi. These are what we have based our campaigns on and not thuggery which, unfortunately, the LP and the PDP have largely relied upon as their campaign strategy.”

•’Ekiti won’t accept inconclusive poll’ led many PDP members to defect to the APC, said they joined APC “because of the light the Fayemi administration has shown in the state through its many life-enhancing programmes”.

He described the APC as “light” and the PDP “darkness”.

At Omuo-Oke, which recently became autonomous, residents applauded Fayemi as he stepped into the campaign venue.

At Ekiti East Local Government, beneficiaries of the Social Security

Scheme for the Elderly extolled the governor and prayed for his success at the poll.

At Araromi-Oke, Mrs. Rachel Olorunfemi, who spoke on behalf of other beneficiaries, said the governor had through the monthly stipend made hunger a thing of the past in the lives of many elderly persons in the state.

An indigene of the town, Mr. Oluwasegun Otetubi, donated a bus to the governor’s campaign, saying: “Fayemi is a governor who

cares for all. I attended Omuo-Oke Grammar School, which was built over 30 years ago. Dr. Fayemi has renovated the school. He has granted us autonomy as well. We assure him that we will vote massively for him.”

Youths wearing Tee-shirts branded in Fayemi’s name thanked the governor for the Volunteer Aids Corps, the YCAD initiative, the Ekiti Peace Corps, the State Traffic Management Agency and the Skill Acquisition Initiative.

Remove Fayose now, aggrieved PDP members urge Jonathan

GGRIEVED Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) members in Ekiti State have given President Goodluck Jonathan five days to nullify the primary that produced former Governor Ayo Fayose as the party’s flag bearer in the June 21 governorship election and order a fresh one.

Addressing reporters yesterday in Ado-Ekiti after a meeting, the aggrieved members, led by Mrs. Feyisayo Fajuyi, said: “The PDP’s constitution was fundamentally breached as congresses did not hold in

From Sulaiman Salawudeen, Ado-Ekiti

whole seven of the 16 councils in the state. Massive rigging occurred in many of the councils where the congresses were said to have held.

“We urge the President to immediately reverse the sham that produced Fayose as our party’s flag bearer. What we are saying should be clear to every sincere Nigerian.

PDP never held a primary in Ekiti and so, there is no candidate for the party yet.”

They blamed the PDP lead-

ership for “open bias”, saying former Rivers State Governor Peter Odili presided over “a fraudulent primary that lacks legitimacy”.

The aggrieved members urged the president to nullify the primary, adding: “Time is ticking fast against the party as the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has fixed a timetable for the election.”

Others at the press briefing were Chief Abel Fayori (Irepodun/Ifelodun); Chief C. Ajayi (Ise/Orun); Mrs. Foluke Adetunji (Ekiti West); Biodun

Ajibadeola (Ikole-Ekiti); Comrade Oluwalana Ayobami (Youth President) and Comrade Akinola Adams (Ijero-Ekiti).

They said: “The media is definitely aware of the events that led to the emergence of a supposed flag bearer of our party. The details were made available to Nigerians through the media by the authorities and leaders concerned.

“As we have said and will continue to say, you cannot build something on nothing. If a university student

undergoing a six-year course is discovered to have used a forged certificate in the fifth year, he would be removed from the system immediately. The amount of years he has spent will amount to nothing. President Jonathan must order a fresh primary, as the one said to have been conducted was fraught with fraud on a large scale.

“With the party’s national hierarchy pretending that all is well, we took it upon ourselves to encourage our large followership to wait for Mr. President’s return, upon which we believe he will intervene with other respected party leaders.

“Today makes it the 16th day of our waiting for a redress by such interventions.

While waiting, some leaders have been persuaded to abandon the truth and settle in criminal compromise. We jointly, as a group, and individually dissociate ourselves from being a part of

moving on at the looming peril of failure at the coming poll.

“The purported primary itself was a daylight rape on democracy and it was widely acclaimed as unacceptable by majority of the party’s stakeholders.”

Expressing readiness to leave the PDP and “opt for a better and more assuring option”, should efforts fail to have a fresh primary conducted, they said: “The likelihood of loss is too great and glaring in the coming election in Ekiti. Unless the president does the needful now, we run the risk of being branded a party of unrepentant criminals.

“We await Mr. President’s intervention to prove that the PDP’s surname is not fraud and neither is its middle name corruption. True leaders are never passive or negatively active. We await Mr. President’s action and positively too.”

Ekiti doctors on strike From Sulaiman Salawudeen, Ado-Ekiti

D •The Olomu of Omu-Aran, Oba Charles Ibitoye (left), handing over the keys of two patrol vans to the Special Adviser to the Governor of Kwara State on security matters, Alhaji Musa Bello (second right), on behalf of Omu-Aran...yesterday. The vans are meant for the police. With them are President, Omu-Aran Development Association, Chief Peter Oyinloye (second left), and Police Commissioner Ambrose Aisabor.

PHOTO:NAN

OCTORS in Ekiti State began yesterday a three-day warning strike.

Nigeria Medical Association (NMA) Chairman, Ekiti chapter, Obitade Obimakinde told reporters in Ado-Ekiti, the state capital, that the strike was to protest against the “imposition of outrageous taxes” on members in both public and private practice by the state government.

Obimakinde berated the state government for resorting to litigation to stop the strike, which he described as “legitimate”.

He said: “The strike commenced at 12 midnight yesterday and involved all cadres of hospitals, ranging from state and federal primary health institutions to tertiary health institutions, including the Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital (EKSUTH) and the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) in Ido-Ekiti.”

THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 2014

9

NEWS

Ibadan ‘forest of horror’: Police, UCH forensic experts begin probe

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ORENSIC experts from the Police and the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, Oyo State, yesterday began examining the Soka “forest of horror”, where dying men and women were rescued and decomposing bodies and human parts were found.

The police team of pathologists was led by Dr. Eze Nwom and the UCH team Prof. Olawoyin. They moved to the site with another police team, led by the Assistant Commissioner of Police in charge of the State Criminal Investigation Department (ACCID), Dasuki Galadachi.

They arrived at the site about 11am yesterday.

Police spokesperson Olabisi Ilobanafor, who was with them, said they were there to exhume the bones of victims buried at the site for forensic analysis to help investigation into the activities in the forest.

She said the analysis would spur those whose relations are missing to go for DNA tests to enable investigators match results and determine if the missing persons

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More horror sites’ll be discovered in Oyo, says church

HE Deeper Life Bible Church has said more kidnappers’/ritualists’ dens would be unraveled soon in Oyo State.

The church was reacting to the discovery of the Soka “forest of horror” in Ibadan, where dying men and women, human parts and decomposing bodies were found.

The church said the state is a holy land and is no hiding place for the evil.

The Oyo State Overseer of the church, Pastor Sola Odumosu, spoke with reporters yesterday on the church’s crusade coming up from Friday to Sunday at

From Tayo Johnson, Ibadan

Kilometre 10 on the Ibadan/Oyo expressway.

The programme is tagged: “Signs and Wonders from the God of Miracles.”

Pastor Odumosu said: “Only righteousness exalts a nation. Sin is a reproach to any people and all evils in this state will be uncovered during our crusade.

“The solution to the ills in our nation is God and that is why Africa’s foremost evangelist and bible teacher, Pastor W.F. Kumuyi, travels from one state to another with God’s message of hope and reconciliation to bring the people back to God.”

•To exhume bones for analysis •50 ‘mentally-ill’ persons arrested From Bisi Oladele, Ibadan

were killed in the “forest of horror”.

Men of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corp (NSCDC) were at the site.

Ilobanafor said: “Three teams are here, led by Galadachi from the State CID. One of the forensic teams from the Force Criminal Investigation Department, Abuja, is led by Babale Aminu. Aminu

was sent by the Inspector-General of Police with four others, including a forensic pathologist, Dr. Eze Nwom, who led the team of pathologists. A professor, Dr. Olawoyin from UCH, is also with them. He deals with anything from the throat to the head.

“They are here to pick up evidence and exhume bones that were buried for forensic analysis.

Another reason is futuristic, so that

anybody whose relatives might have been declared missing could go for forensic test to determine whether they are related to any of the bones.

“People whose family members or relatives have been declared missing are free to go for DNA test or forensic test to establish if they are related to the bones found there.

“The reason for the investigation is to get to the root of the matter, to assist the police in ensuring that

evidence are not lost and that the investigation is done scientifically and diligently.”

She said the site would be handed over to the government after the investigation.

Ilobanafor dispelled rumours that a dungeon exists in the forest, adding that none has been found.

She said: “There is no dungeon here. It is not true. Nobody is trapped.”

Over 50 suspected mentally-ill persons have been arrested by the police, following the attack on mentally-ill people by Ibadan residents on the suspicion that they were ritualists.

The mentally-ill persons were apprehended by mobs on the allegation that human parts and incriminating items were found on them.

Ilobanafor said: “The suspects have been handed over to the government for psychiatric test to determine their health status. For those on whom we found incriminating objects or suspected human parts, they will be sent back to us for prosecution after the psychiatric test.”

I have no desire to shed blood, says Omisore From Adesoji Adeniyi, Osogbo

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HE governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Osun State, Senator Iyiola Omisore, has said his desire to serve the people is not at the expense of the blood of any citizen.

In a statement by his Media Director, Prince Diran Odeyemi, Omisire said his governorship ambition was about the people.

He said: “It is from the people that I draw my inspiration and determination to serve them.”

Omisore said the August 9 governorship election would be a step forward from the “overwhelming support that brought him in as the generally acceptable candidate of Osun PDP”.

He alleged that the All Progressives Congress (APC) raised a false alarm that last Saturday’s PDP primary would be marred by violence, urging the police to investigate the source of the party’s claim.

•Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola (second left); Administrator, St. Benedict’s Catholic Church, Osogbo, Rev. Paul Awowole (second right); former Abia State Governor Orji Uzor Kalu (right) and Senator Babajide Omoworare at the church...on Sunday.

INEC defends decision to conduct supplementary poll in Ondo

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HE Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has defended its decision to conduct supplementary elections in areas where election did not hold in Ilaje/Eseodo Federal Constituency of Ondo State.

On Sunday, the commission declared the by-election inconclusive.

It said the difference between the votes polled by the first runner up, Mr. Kolade Akinjo of the Labour Party (LP) (23,926), and the second runner up, Mr. Adewale Kukute of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) (22,628), is

T

•PDP: only election tribunal can adjudicate on electoral matters From Damisi Ojo, Akure

less than the number of registered voters in areas where the election was cancelled or did not hold.

The Resident Electoral Commissioner, Akin Orebiyi, said the winner would be announced when election is conducted in areas where it did not hold.

Orebiyi said the commission would announce the date of the supplementary election.

The PDP said only an election tribunal can adjudicate on electoral matters.

Speaking with reporters yesterday in Akure, the state capital, PDP alleged that the LP was planning to approach a court to seek an order that would compel INEC to declare Akinjo winner of the election.

According to PDP Chairman Ebenezer Alabi, there was no election in Arogbo

Osun seals Oduduwa varsity over unpaid tax

HE Osun State Internal Revenue Service (OSSIRS) has sealed the Oduduwa University, Ipetumodu, for the non-remittance of N173 million Income Tax. According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Revenue Femi Balogun led the IRS team to the university yesterday.

Oduduwa University, Ipetumodu, is a private tertiary institution located in Ife North.

In a statement, Balogun said: “The tax liabilities covered back duty liability from 2006-2011 and the enforcement is the last stage of any tax process. It is in line with Section 104 Sub section (1) and (2) of the Personnel Income Tax Act as amended.

“Tax payment is a law and a civic responsibility of all. It is through this effort that the gov-

ernment provides infrastructure, security and other amenities. The Revenue Department will stop at nothing to ensure that every individual performs his civic obligations.

“I urge the university to by pay its tax liability to avoid prosecution in court. We have commenced enforcement on corporate tax defaulters and, within the next few days, the enforcement team will visit all of them.

“We have on our radar corporate institutions like banks owing back duty of withholding tax on bank interest and some other companies that are recalcitrant in fulfilling tax obligations.

“I urge all tax payers and companies with outstanding tax liabilities to resolve their tax issues to avoid embarrassment.”

Ward Two because alleged LP thugs blocked the waterways to prevent the arrival of INEC officials and the supply of ballot materials to the ward.

He said the LP allegedly took the action because the ward is a stronghold of the PDP. Alabi said: “In their calculations, they were unmindful of the provisions of the Electoral Law, which mandates INEC to declare the election inconclusive, if a candidate did not score a wide margin that would have rendered the outstanding votes inconsequential.”

He said there was no election in New Jerusalem polling unit in Arogbo Ward One because of the unavailability of the voter register.

Alabi said there were no elections in the five units of Ogogoro community in Mahin Ward Two, adding that election materials were hijacked in Mahin Ward One, particularly in Legha and Piawe units.

He said INEC conducted a free and fair election, adding that electoral materials and INEC officials arrived at polling units on schedule.

Alabi alleged that huge state resources were spent on the by-election by the state government.

Present your blueprint, Osun commissioner tells PDP

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SUN State Commissioner for Special Duties and Regional Integration Ajibola Bashiru has challenged the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to come out with its blueprint for the state. Speaking to The Nation yesterday in Lagos, he said Osun State people will not be dragged aback by the “visionless” PDP, “which did not impact positively on the people when it ruled the state”.

Bashiru said: “The opposition should present its plan, if it has any better plan than what we are implementing.

It is not enough to tell lies about what was done and not done. If it has genuine plans, let it present it that, instead of merely saying it wants to run a government of integrity.”

He said for the PDP to come up with Senator Iyiola Omisore as its flag bearer in the August 9 governorship election shows that “it is not serious and is trying to take the state off track”.

Bashiru said Omisore’s campaign that he wants to embark on a rescue mission was a misuse of words, adding: “It is absurd for somebody who was part of an administration that ran the state aground for seven-and-ahalf years to say he is embarking on a rescue mission,

By Musa Odoshimokhe

unless we do not know the meaning of ‘rescue mission’.

“The only way he can talk of rescue mission is to reverse to the conditions of unemployment, poverty, insecurity and bad governance that characterised the past PDP administration.”

Bashiru said since Governor Rauf Aregbesola assumed office, peace has returned to the state.

He said: “A thousand of our supporters were detained. Some ran out of their communities when the PDP was in power. Today, there is an atmosphere of peace and tolerance in the state.

We urge our people to be wary of the people of yesteryears, who depleted our state. We now have good governance and cannot allow ourselves to be taken back to the bad old days.”

Describing Omisore’s emergence as the PDP’s candidate as “unfortunate”, Bashiru said: “He could not even influence the tarring of the road leading to his house, not to talk of his senatorial district.”

He said Osun people deserve the best and would not be dragged back to the “dark days when the PDP was in charge, even though the administration was illegally constituted”.

THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 2014

10

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CITYBEATS LINE: 08023247888

Counsel: Lagos still collecting tolls on Lekki Bridge

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•Court hears govt application tomorrow

CTIVIST lawyer, Mr E b u n - O l u Adegboruwa has told the Federal High Court in Lagos that the state government is still collecting toll on the Lekki-Ikoyi Bridge.

Justice Saliu Saidu had, in a March 27 judgment, held that there was no law backing toll collection on the bridge.

Adegboruwa is urging the court to dismiss a March 28 application by the government seeking a stay of execution of the verdict.

In a counter-affidavit, he alleged that the government had refused to obey the judgment.

The court will hear the government’s application tomorrow.

The plaintiff said: “On the March 27, 2014, the applicant (Adegboruwa) was personally present in court and the fourth respondent (Lagos State Attorney-General) herein, Mr Adetoro Ipaye, was also present in court and they all listened to the judgment of the court and thereafter commended the court.

“The applicant thereafter proceeded from the court to the Lekki-Ikoyi Bridge in his car at about 11am and he met the usual barrier at the toll plaza that the third (Lagos State Government) and

By Joseph Jibueze

fourth respondents erected on the said bridge.

“The applicant was not allowed to pass through the said barrier as officers of the third and fourth respondents, together with armed policemen were on hand to compel motorists and the applicant too, to pay the toll fee before they could be allowed access through the toll plaza.

“The applicant paid N300 for his car to be allowed to pass through the toll plaza, to be able to get to his office in Lekki Phase 1.

“The applicant observed that other motorists exiting Lekki through the bridge across to Ikoyi, were also made to pay the fee that day at the said time. Since March 27, when the judgment of this Honourable Court was delivered, the applicant and other motorists using the said Lekki-Ikoyi have been paying.”

Lagos State Solicitor-General and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Justice Mr. Lawal Pedro (SAN) said the government had appealed the verdict at the Court of Appeal.

In the notice of appeal, the government is challenging Justice Saidu’s decision that contractors’ payment to the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) was an ad-

NEWS (SHOWBIZ)

mission by the state that the Federal Government has powers to regulate inland waterways throughout the country.

It is urging the Court of Appeal to reverse the decision which held that there was no law by the House of Assembly authorising the state to impose tolls on public infrastructure in the state.

It argued that the Lagos State Public Private Partnership Law No. 2 of 2011 empowers the government to specify the service charges, user fees or tolls which are payable in respect of designated public infrastructure.

After the judgment, Ipaye said toll collection would continue on the bridge because the court did not make any consequential order or declaration barring the government from further collecting tolls from users of the bridge.

He said: “The judgment read this morning did not specifically address many of the questions raised by the applicant; neither did it grant any of the declarations sought.

“As you heard for yourselves, no order was made.

However, the pronouncements referred to above are capable of being interpreted as court orders; hence our decision to appeal and file a stay of execution immediately.”

•The controversial bridge

Man bags life jail for armed robbery

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LAGOS High Court sitting in Ikeja yesterday sentenced a 27-year-old man, Olayinka Ayeni, to life imprisonment for armed robbery.

Ayeni was accused of robbing Modupeola Iromini and assaulting her while attempting to snatch her handbag in Meiran, a Lagos suburb.

Justice Lateefat Okunnu held that the prosecution proved its case beyond reasonable doubts.

The Lagos State Directorate of Public Prosecutions (DPP) charged Ayeni with armed robbery. He was arraigned on June 27, 2012.

Ayeni pleaded not guilty

22-yr-old blind boy wins voice contest

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HE crowd went boisterous, at the popular Thisday Dome Arena, Abuja, as Emmanuel Daniel, a 22-year-old visually-impaired boy was declared winner of a gospel music competition tagged The Gospel Voice Abuja 2014.

The competition was stiff, and Daniel, despite his disability slugged it out with other contestants, by producing amazing voice and stagecraft that culminated in his victory.

He could not see anyone, but he acknowledged the cheers, beaming with smiles as organisers announced his prize of N4 million worth of recording contract and a brand new Hyundai car.

Daniel, who hails from Niger State, defeated close rivals, Faith and Sanmi who took 2nd and 3rd positions respectively.

The victory of E Daniels, as he is otherwise called, appeared satisfactory to many, as the judges including Paul Play

•As 10 finalists record theme song Dairo, Solomon Lange, Frank Edwards and Namure (Asst.

Head of Program AIT) also gave the winner an obvious nod.

Veteran music producer, VC Perez, who is one of the

organisers described the winner as another ‘Cobhams Asuquo’ of the Nigerian music industry, while thanking God for the success of the competition.

“In fact, God has been so

•Daniel

wonderful from the beginning to this end and the fact that another Cobhams is detected tonight is also God’s doing. I must tell that the winner Emmanuel is in the class of elite already. His music skills are exceptional in one word,” he said.

According to him, Daniel did not win the competition out of pity. “He was a clear winner,” he said, adding that the young man has been endorsed by gospel music superstars such as Frank Edwards, Solomon Lange and Nosa to become the next jewel in the music industry.

The competition also had other categories, including Best Group, won by The Identity, and Best Choir, won by TTMI Choir.

Interestingly, the 10 finalist from the main category, won

by Daniel have come together for an amazing theme song titled Winner, which they said is dedicated to the fans. The song is produced by Perez.

Ozingo Dance: Ozzybosco features MI

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URRENTLY serenading the airwaves, a collaborative effort between The Chairman, MI Abaga and Wonder Kid, Ozzybosco opens the new week.

This is cashing in on the sensational release by the kidsinger, Mama Africa which features Lamboginny.

The seven -year-old artiste has released a remix to his 2013 single Ozingo Dance, fea-

By Ovwe Medeme

turing M I. The kid star teams up with self acclaimed Africa’s number one rapper on the track to bring out a dance song with an imposing beat. In the track, OzzyB attempts to blend his tender singing voice with the rapper’s. “Ozzybosco, you are a young boss. Just keep on rising and shining. The sky isn’t even the limit … I can’t believe Ozzybosco just enters the room and the people start

grooving,” MI raps.

In recent times, the youngster has collaborated with other notable stars including Flavour N’abania, Olamide, Terry G, Lamboginny, and YemiSax. Ozingo Dance remix is produced by Master Kraft, under Ozzy Records label. A promising artiste, Ozzybosco is presently working on the launch of his album titled Superstar set, billed for release later in the year.

By Adebisi Onanuga

to the charge.

The prosecutor, Mr Femi Adamson, told the court that Ayeni committed the offence on March 14, 2011 at 10.30 p.m, at 40, Kola Oretuga Street, Iyana Bus Stop, Meiran, Lagos.

Adamson said Ayeni trailed Iromini from the bus stop and assaulted her with a sharp weapon while attempting to snatch her handbag.

According to him, the victim shouted for help and was rescued by some persons who apprehended Ayeni and handed him over to the police.

He said Iromini was taken

to Niki Hospital in Meiran.

Adamson said the offence contravened Section 403 (2) (a) of the Criminal Code, Laws of Lagos State 2003.

In her judgment, Justice Okunnu said the testimonies of the victim and her father were credible, adding that they “properly” identified the accused.

According to her, the evidence before the court showed that Ayeni was armed with a dangerous weapon while attempting to snatch the handbag.

Justice Okunnu said the sentence would begin from June 27, 2012 when Ayeni was arraigned for the offence.

Only 74 films got our approval in March, says Censors Board

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N its effort to foster the archive tradition, and sensitise the public on the influx of uncensored movies, the National Film and Video Censors (NFVCB), has announced that only 74 films were approved for the month of March.

In a statement released to the public yesterday, the Film Censorship and Classification Department (FCCD) of the agency revealed that out of the 74 films, 40 were classified ‘15’ while 34 were classified ‘18’.

The record also shows that movies in English language top the chart last month with 23 releases, while 27 were in Yoruba. Others include Hausa (19), Bini (4) and Urhobo (1).

According to the statement, “the 40 movies clarified ‘15’ include Visitor (English), Adebimpe (Yoruba), Dan Tasi (Hausa), Owena (Urhobo), Ovibiagikpa (Bini), Tijo Terin (Yoruba), Ulaaka (English), Jini Daya (Hausa), and Little Calabash (English).

“The 34 movies classified ‘18’ include Succubus (English), Owo A g b a r a (Yoruba), Akin kishi (Hausa),” (Bini), and Fiscal Explo- •Bala

By Victor Akande

sion (English).

For movies classified ‘15’, the FCCD said the consumer are advised to note that the movies possess imitable technique, strong language, violence, ritual and fetish rituals, while movies with the ‘18’ tag contain fetish practice, imitable technique, violence, and strong language.

Other films approved for that month are Wutar kara (Hausa), Never Again (English), Olewu (Yoruba), Iredia Ube Haly (Bini), Malami Mata (Hausa), Joshua of the State (English) Tijo Terin (Yoruba), Ema muo (Bini), Emere (Yoruba), Fansa (Hausa), and Accident (English).

BUSINESS

THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 2014

THE NATION

E-mail:- bussiness@thenationonlineng.net

Group protests alleged multiple taxation From Osagie Otabor, Benin

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EMBERS of the Edo State Wood Buyers and Sellers Association yesterday renewed their street protests over alleged multiple taxation.

They said their earlier protest have not reduced their tax burden but rather increased it through the introduction of ‘Community Ticket’ by a traditional ruler.

The protesters alleged that groups and agencies of government approved to collect taxes and levies from them have upped the stipulated approved rates.

In a save our soul (SoS) letter to the Speaker of the House of Assembly, Hon Uyi Igbe, the protesters said they pay N19,000 to the state Internal Revenue Services for a lorry load going outside the state and N4,500 for lorry load within the state.

The letter signed its chairman, Prince Osahon Edohen listed other taxes to include local government officials who they alleged usually hijacked their trucks on the highway, thugs who collect N3,000 and community leaders in the name of community development.

The letter reads: “We wish to state that thus burdens and unregulated over taxation is taking its toll on our businesses and self struggling efforts, thereby plunging us into poverty.

“We are begging for a reduction of the necessary dues we ought to pay to government and a total removal of the wrong collectors on the road.”

In his reaction, Chairman of Edo Internal Revenue Service, Chief Oseni Elamah challenged the protesters to show evidence of payment for prompt action.

He said the state government has abolished all forms of cash payment in terms of revenue collection and urged the protesters to report any harrassment to security agencies.

DATA STREAM COMMODITY PRICES Oil -$117.4/barrel Cocoa -$2,686.35/metric ton Coffee - ¢132.70/pound Cotton - ¢95.17pound Gold -$1,396.9/troy Sugar -$163/lb MARKET CAPITALISATIONS NSE -N11.4 trillion JSE -Z5.112trillion NYSE -$10.84 trillion LSE -£61.67 trillion RATES Inflation -8.7% Treasury Bills -10.58%(91d) Maximum lending -30% Prime lending -15.87% Savings rate -1% 91-day NTB -15% Time Deposit -5.49% MPR -12% Foreign Reserve $46.8b FOREX CFA -0.2958 EUR -206.9 £ -242.1 $ -156 ¥ -1.9179 SDR -238 RIYAL -40.472

11 Risk management could entail avoiding the risk completely, reducing the negative impact of the risk through risk mitigation actions, transfering or sharing the risks with other parties and retaining the risk; ie, accepting some or all the consequences of the risk and budgeting for it.

- Mallam Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, CBN Governor

Court adjourns garnishee proceedings against Airtel, 23 banks J

USTICE Lateef LawalAkapo has adjourned the garnishee proceedings in a suit filed by a telecoms firm, Procomtel Limited, against Airtel Nigeria and 23 banks.

The judge said he would suspend further hearing of any applications by the banks until Airtel’s appeal is determined by the Court of Appeal.

Airtel is urging the appellate court to stay execution of a Garnishee Order Nisi made against it

by Justice Lawal-Akapo and to set it aside.

The appellate court has reserved ruling on the case.

Yesterday, Justice LawalAkapo said since the appeal court would deliver judgement within three months, which would lapse in May, he would wait for it before entertaining any further applications.

“We will await the decision of the Higher court because

By Joseph Jibueze

it will affect what we’re doing here,” he said.

The judge had asked Airtel to pay Procomtel N1.17billion, which represents awards made by an arbitrator on June 27, 2007 and on August 24, 2007, including interests, over a dispute.

Procomtel said it had an agreement with Airtel for the construction of 28 cell cites in 2001, but the telco allegedly terminated the contract on March 5, 2003.

The claimant said it successfully executed the contract, and provided other services to Airtel including importing of equipment, and that the company was indebted to it.

Procomtel had urged the lower court to enforce the

awards, claiming that the defendant’s failure to pay the money had adversely affected and almost paralysed its business.

In a bid to recover the judgment sum, Procomtel (the judgment-creditor) initiated the garnishee proceedings.

Justice Lawal-Akapo, on January 21, made a garnishee Order Nisi directing the banks to produce Airtel’s bank details to show whether they money in them is sufficient to satisfy the judgment-debt in the sum of N1,188,425,602.49.

The court also directed that the accounts be frozen.

Some of the banks filed counter-affidavits in the proceedings, stating that Airtel is either indebted to them or did not have enough money in their accounts to satisfy the judgement sum.

For instance, in Stanbic IBTC, the amount standing to Airtel’s credit is N34.9million; Ecobank said Airtel is “heavily indebted” to it to the tune of N59million; Diamond Bank said Airtel owes it N1.5billion; while First Bank said Airtel owes it N7.5billion.

Access Bank said Airtel is indebted to it by over N1billion; Fidelity said Airtel has a debit balance of N2.186billion with it; Zenith Bank said the company has an outstanding debit balance of over N580million with it; Keystone said Airtel’s credit balance with it is N3.3million; while Union Bank said Airtel’s credit with it is N365,635.

In its defence at the lower court, Airtel denied the claimant’s allegations, insisting that it was not indebted to Procomtel on the

basis of any arbitral award or contractual agreement.

It admitted awarding contract to the claimant for the construction of 22 base stations, but said the contract was cancelled due to the Procomtel’s alleged failure to comply with its instructions as it relates to quality and timescale.

It denied any outstanding indebtedness to the plaintiff, adding that the decision to refer the case to arbitration was not mutual, but was based on a court order.

Airtel further added it is challenging the legitimacy of the arbitral award and seeking to set it aside on the basis that the arbitrator exceeded the scope of the case referred to him for arbitration.

Justice Lawal-Akapo adjourned till May 26 for mention.

We are not afraid of competition, says Lafarge

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• From left: Designer, Vittorio Osella; Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, First City Monument Bank (FCMB) Limited, Mr. Ladi Balogun; and Italian clothier, Francesco Cocilovo when the bank, in collaboration with Kinabuti, the Italian Consulate and Fantinel hosted the famous Italian designers at the Italian Em,bassy in Lagos...yesterday

Customs impounds N235.6m worth of rice, vehicles

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HE Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone C of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has impounded smuggled rice with Duty Paid Value (DV) of N235.634 million, 31 assorted types of vehicles valued at N18million all illegally imported through the nation’s borders.

This, in addition to 14 cartons of contraband Tramadol with 300 pieces of 100milligram (mg) capsules suspected to have been illegally imported from England and with no officially approved registration numbers of the National Agency for Foods, Drugs Administration and Control (NAFDAC).

According to its Area Controller, Mr. Victor David Dimka, the Tramadol capsules were deceitfully packed and concealed in a luxury bus along with many other contraband goods even as he assured that the poisonous

From Okodili Ndidi, Owerri

drugs would be handed over to NAFDAC for necessary action.

Dimka disclosed that five suspects are now in police net in connection with the smuggling and would soon be charged to court as soon as investigations are concluded.

He assured that the synergy currently existing among the NCS, the police, army, the State Security Services (SSS) and NAFDAC would be strengthened to drastically reduce smuggling in the country.

The FOU Zone C boss who also displayed bags of imported rice, including fake Mama Africa Rice valued at N160, 440, containing 382 metric tons put the grand total of the DPV of all the items seized at N235, 634,000.

Dimka expressed optimism that the smuggling could be effectively tackled with the support and cooperation of all pa-

triotic Nigerians with security agencies, stating that the NCS would sustain its public enlightenment/sensitisation campaign on the dangers inherent in smuggling, patronage and consumption of contraband goods imported.

“The items were brought in with every amount ingenuity and if we are not able to check them, those who criminally brought them in would have eventually had their way to the market,” According to him, the DPV of the rice imported were N235 million just as he warned transporters to always be careful and mindful of the purpose for which their vehicles are being used at any point in time since ignorance of the usage of any vehicle for a criminal act can never be tolerated as an excuse.

Dimka said although Customs men were not trained to kill but to maim when ever it becomes inevitable in the discharge of their duties, they are

now better trained, equipped, motivated and informed to meet their challenges in the interest of the nation’s economy.

By Toba Agboola

AFARGE cement WAPCO Nigeria Plc has said it is not afraid of competition as it is the only way to bring the best out of the cement industry.

Speaking at a customers’ forum in Eko Hotel, Lagos,its chairman, Mr Olusegun Osunkeye said what stakeholders and Nigerians are witnessing today in the cement industry is competition and an attempt to fight rough.

He said regardless of what anybody might be saying, Lafarge’s products remain the best.

He said: “I must be quick to add here that we do not abhor competition in Lafarge. In fact, we view competition as the only good thing for any industry and the society at large, as it brings out the best in the players, especially when it is healthy.

“We pride ourselves as the cement manufacturers with the largest product range in Nigeria, thanks to the innovative, value adding and consumercentric culture of our parent company which is rubbing off on us in WAPCO.”

THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 2014

12

NEWS Akanu Ibiam International Airport terminal ready soon

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HE N11.6 billion Akanu Ibiam International Airport Terminal, Enugu will be ready by September next year according to the Supervising Minister of Aviation, Dr. Samuel Ortom.

Ortom made this remark after inspecting ongoing construction works at the airport yesterday.

Dr. Ortom who is also the Minister of State for Trade and Investment, was on the tour with the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Aviation and all heads of the aviation parastatals and other heads of departments of the ministry.

The minister who said he was impressed by the level of work done at the site said by the assurance given to him by the contractors, China Civil Engineering company, the

By Kelvin Osa Okunbor

terminal will be ready by September 2015.

The engineers handling the project promised the minister and his entourage that going by the speed they are going, they will do everything within their power and resources ensure the completion of the project on schedule.

Ortom also inspected the remodeled old terminal, the pilgrims terminal, the pilots’ lodge and the general aviation building, all within the airport.

Speaking at the end of the inspection, he said: “I want to say that I am impressed with what I have seen. This is the whole essence of coming here since I resumed office. I have looked at what I have seen today on paper but had to

come to see things for myself so as to talk as an authority.

“You can see that the old terminal has been completed and commissioned. Work on the new terminal building which is going to cost the Federal Government N11.6 billion is going on. I want to say here that the local content of this project is unimaginable. Over 400 Nigerians have been given jobs for this terminal project alone.

“On the quality of done I am also impressed. My engineer on site has confirmed that they have no issues with the Chinese company handling the project. So I am equally impressed. I have got the assurance from the company that this project will be delivered to the Federal Government anxd to Nigerians by September next year.”

Deloitte expands African foothold

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ROFESSIONAL services firm Deloitte has opened a new office in Rwanda in line with its strategy to consolidate the firm’s operations and further cement its market leading position across the continent.

The opening of an office in East Africa - based in the Rwandan capital, Kigali adds to the Deloitte EastAfrican offices in Nairobi and Mombasa, Dar es Salaam, Kampala and Addis Ababa, the firm said in a statement.

Deloitte agreed to integrate its operations in Africa

with a new structure for East and Central Africa which comprises the operation and growth of the East African and Central African outfits and the Central African one comprising of Malawi, Rwanda, Zambia and Zimbabwe. Through this, it has clustered together its existing well-established practices, thus expanding the firm’s reach and level of expertise to ultimately assist clients with optimising their business across the continent.

Deloitte Africa Chief Executive Officer, Lwazi Bam, referred to the opening of the

Kigali office as a landmark achievement for Deloitte Africa.

“We now have a physical presence in 34 countries and service 51 countries across the African continent. In this coming of age for Africa investment and business growth, we remain committed to assisting our clients through our audit, consulting, financial advisory, risk management and tax services to ensure that they can remain competitive and wellinformed in this conducive business environment,” said Bam.

• From left: Group Head, Strategy & Communications, Sterling Bank Plc, Mr. Shina Atilola; Managing Director, DGV Academy, Ibadan, Mrs. Ronke Olubanjo, a guest, Mr. Femi Olubanjo,and Chief Operating Officer (COO), Bluebird Communications/Guest Speaker, Mr. Kayode Ebatimehin, at the ‘Get Ready for Work’ concert organised by Sterling Bank in Ibadan.

Banking to resume in Kwara community, says CBN

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ORMAL commercial banking will resume soon in Omu-Aran, headquarters of Irepodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, Acting Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mrs. Sarah Alade, has said.

About 11 months ago, commercial banks in the ancient town suspended banking following violent robbery incidents that affected some of them.

Specifically, a robbery attack on May 14, last year led to indefinite closure of commercial banking operations in the town, forcing residents to travel more than 60 kilometres for their banking transactions.

Alade gave the assurance this yesterday in Omu-Aran while handing over two Hilux pick-up vehicles donated by the community to the Police.

Represented by the CBN Branch Controller in Ilorin, Mr Monday Olotewo, the Mrs Alade said the bank is

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From Adekunle Jimoh, Ilorin

aware of the community’s social and economic predicament following the closure of banking operations.

She said the assurance given the community was based on the high level synergy between the community and law enforcement agencies.

She said: “It is always a precarious situation for us in the banking sector, particularly the CBN to continue to witness indefinite closure of bank branches as a result of incessant armed robbery attacks.

“But when such attacks now involve loss of precious lives, it becomes more compounded.

“But the good news is that with the level of commitment shown by the people of OmuAran community, with this donation and other efforts in assisting security agencies, I assure you of the re-opening

of the banks very soon.”

State Commissioner of Police Ambrose Aisabo expressed happiness at the community’s gesture, and promised to make judicious use of the vehicles.

He urged financial institutions to furnish the command with useful security tips on how to improve security around them.

He said: “I am assuring the Omu-Aran community that these vehicles will only be used to service the immediate security needs of the town.

“With the presence of all security apparatus in OmuAran, the police including regular and mobile units, Special Anti-Robbery Squad, and the Military patrol team, I think the banks can start their operations.”

Also speaking, the President, Omu-Aran Development Association (ODA) Chief Peter Oyinloye, President said the association would also assist the police in the maintenance and fuelling of the vehicles to achieve smooth operations.

Ogun, MTN partner on community-based health insurance

HE Ogun State government said it is set to roll out the pilot phase of its Community Based Health Insurance Scheme (CBHIS) in six Local Government Areas of the state.

The Local Government Areas are, Abeokuta South, Odeda, Ado Odo/Ota, Ifo, Obafemi Owode and Ipokia.

The plan is part of government’s determination to further improve health indices for the overall wellbeing of the citizens of the state.

The State Governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun made this known in his address at the inauguration of Ogun/ MTN Foundation Mobile Medical Intervention Scheme held at the Arcade Ground, Governor’s Office, Abeokuta.

The governor who was represented by his Deputy, Prince Segun Adesegun disclosed that the CBHIS would help reduce the cost of accessing medicare as government would subsidise for able bodied participants in the scheme while pregnant women, children and the aged would be given treatment free of charge.

He expressed gratitude to the teleco for selecting the

By Adebisi Onanuga

state for the scheme, affirming that the mobile medical intervention would strengthen government efforts at enhancing quality primary health care delivery services, particularly at the grassroots.

“The project will involve skilled health workers going to rural communities using the fully equipped mobile clinic to deliver quality primary health care services to them and appropriate referral of complicated cases to secondary health facilities”, the governor said.

He affirmed that his government would continue to partner with private individuals and corporate organisations to move the health sector forward, while investments in human resources for health would be intensified.

Commissioner for Health, Dr. Olaokun Soyinka said the mobile clinic which is fully equipped with basic medical tools and drugs would be deployed to the rural areas of the state to provide services to those who do not have access to medical facilities and lauded the organisation for the gesture,

• Gov Amosun

assuring that the equipment would be put to proper use.

Speaking earlier, the Executive Secretary, MTN Foundation, Ms. Nonny Ugboma, said six state-of the-art mobile clinics would be deployed to six states of Abia, Delta, Ogun and Taraba and one state each in the Northcentral and Northwest geo-political zones to provide maternal and child healthcare services as well as tips on prevention of communicable and noncommunicable diseases.

According to her, Ogun is the only state in the Southwest region that met the criteria for the scheme, maintaining that the state government’s commitment to health care delivery was an impetus for the telco to sustain and take the programme to reach larger number of people in the rural areas of the state.

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THE NATION

BUSINESS PROPERTY/ENVIRONMENT

• A group of land owners at the event.

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PROPERTYand investment firm, Xeus Realties Limited, has advised Nigerians to take advantage of the National Housing Fund (NHF) to become house owners.

Its Managing Director, Mr Emiola Odulate, said at the weekend during the allocation of 50 plots to subscribers at the Lighthouse Estate, in Igbesa, Agbara, Ogun State that many Nigerians were either yet to key into the scheme, or were not aware of how to benefit from it.

This, he said, made his firm to develop a scheme - the Builders Support Finance (BSF) aimed at making the common man become decent home owner without stress.

The BSF, he explained, is a platform for individuals to set aside an amount monthly towards getting a house; that is, after acquiring a land. He said the size and time of housing in-

* The Environment * Mortgage * Apartments * Security * Homes * Real Estate Website:- http://www.thenationonlineng.com 08062722507

‘How to gain from Housing Fund’ Stories By Muyiwa Lucas

vestments, which require large amounts of long-time finance, makes the BSF initiative apt.

“We have discovered that most civil servants are qualified for NHF, but they are skeptical about government things.

So, what we do is to help individuals access the funds such that what you access can be translated into the house - not the house of your dream, but the house that can comfortably cater for you. The minimum that can be accessed is N5 million. If we are building in bulk, we know we can achieve a decent three-bedroom flat for N4.5 million. Also, we have a scheme for the upper class too,” he added.

To achieve this, the firm is partnering some primary mortgage institutions (PMIs), under

Akpabio initiates 28km road

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28-kilometre Road to link Ikot Ikara-Ikot Ibritam has beenkicked off by Governor Godswill Akpabio in Oruk Anam Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.

The governor, who started the road construction during his visit to the Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency, expressed disappointment with the state of roads in the two local government areas, attributing it to neglects by successive governments.

He harped on the importance of the road, announcing that the Utu Nsehe part of the road was to be awarded to Setraco Construction Company.

The governor, who inaugurated the Abak-Obio Akpa-Nsehe Road with three bridges, and later opened the Nsehe-Ikot Akpa Nkuk axis of

property@thenationonlineng.net muyiwalucas2002@yahoo.com

•Akpabio

the Road. He promised to do more to open up the area and boost more economic activities.

Reacting to the development, the stakeholders from the area expressed deep appreciation to

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the NHF scheme, construction firms and suppliers of building materials. The company helps prospective applicants package documents and pass it t hrou g h t he PM Is who wi l l send to the NHF for processing and when the money is released, Xeus moves in to help bu i l d t he hou se wi t hi n t he amount given by the NHF. Odulate, who said in most of the estates the practice is to sell land, revealed that through his firm assists people who are unable to get facility from the NHF so that a land buyer in the estate can build his house in bits.

This is done after the beneficiary’s ability to repay is assessed, usually based on the disposable income, while repayment is made monthly at a single digit interest rate as Akpabio for reconnecting them with the other part of the state.

The member representing Oruk Anam State Constituency and Deputy Speaker of the Akwa Ibom House of Assembly Rt. Hon. Udo Kierian Akpan thanked the governor for making Ukanafun a priority in his administration. He said the people where happy that apart from completing the major road with four bridges to link Ukanafun/Oruk Anam with Abak, the Governor has embarked on the Ikot Ikara – Ikot Ibritam Road that will link the new road with the East Way Road and make movement to Port Harcourt and Aba easier for the people.

mortgage on the house, thereby preventing inflation on the cost of building a house where the owner builds little by little.

Many of the land owners who got their allocation were workers of the National Orthopaedic Hospital, Igbobi, Lagos, including the Assistant Director of Finance, Egekenze Chime. He expressed satisfaction with the process, saying that he hoped to capitalise on the NHF Loan Scheme.

Head of Administration of the firm Christian Eboma urged the government to build houses for the common man because poor people cannot afford the houses the govern-

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ment is building.

“There is no plan for the low and middle income earner; so ours is more of a vision passionately driven to cater for people. We are ready to partner with any organisation that shares our vision,” he said.

The 60-acre Lighthouse Estate is close to the Ogun/Chinese Free Trade Zone. It is designed and developed for the low and medium income earners, who will own real estate over some time at their pace through Xeus Realties’creative builder support programme.

‘Buyers beware’

CAVEAT emptor has been placed on land in Ayobo in Alimosho Local Government Area of Lagos State, according to the Permanent Secretary, Lands Bureau, Mr. Hakeem Muri-Okunola.

Muri-Okunola spoke in his office, urging the public to be wary of individuals, families, traditional rulers and communities who sell government acquired land in the area.

He said the land covering 455.76 hectares in Ayobo was acquired by the state government, by virtue of its Official Gazette No 15 Volume 34 of May 5, 2001, adding that it was named Ayobo Residential Scheme.

Muri-Okunola said prospective

buyers should verify any land before buying.

He advised the public to obtain a Land Information Certificate from the Office of the Surveyor-General, ascertain the status of the land and ensure proper validation of the titles on such lands from the Lagos State Land Registry.

“The unsuspecting members of the public are, therefore, enjoined to take caution by verifying the status of any landed property, else they may purchase litigation, which venture may end up as colossal waste of hard earned financial resources,” he said.

He added that the activities of illegal fraudsters is on the rise in the area, warning that thepublic should be wary of them.

Commission promises safer water delivery

HE Lagos State Water Regulatory Commission (LSWRC) has inaugurated multi-channel contacts for the public.

The channels, which include six toll-free lines, website, consumer complaints box and corporate locational signages, would provide unfettered access to the commission by the public, said Executive Secretary Mrs. Tanwa Koya.

The commission, she said, has a duty to ensure that any water provider in the state is protected; protect the interests of consumers on the price they pay, the quality of water they receive, and access to water supply.

This, she added, also include proper delivery of wastewater services whether by pipe/sewer network or by seepage trucks, provide an avenue to the public to

make their complaints.

LSWRC Chairman Mr. Taiwo Sebiola said the commission would ensure that an enabling environment is put in place for a viable and sustainable water supply and waste water management sector.

This, according to him, will be realised as the commission is mandated to ensure that water supply production and distribution is done in a safe and

efficient manner, that consumers do not pay more than they need for water, that water quality meets the state standard, which he reckons is even higher than that set by the Federal Government.

He said it was the commission’s duty to ensure that residents of the Lagos have access to potable water, adding that consumers must have their complaints properly addressed and get value for money paid for water services.

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COMMENTARY EDITORIALS

FROM OTHER LANDS

Culpable buck passing

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•Jonathan’s Boko Haram blame game in Bauchi is a presidential disgrace.

But it was a counter to gubernatorial recklessness

RESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan’s March 29 charge in Bauchi, that North East governors should take the blame for the Boko Haram insurrection, is culpable presidential buck passing.

But being a riposte to Adamawa State Governor, Murtala Nyako’s allegation that the president was incapable of, or uninterested in tackling Boko Haram, in a paper he presented at a Washington DC, USA symposium, it was a reaction to gubernatorial recklessness.

It is well and truly condemnable when the president and governors engage in mutual buck passing, over a serious security issue as Boko Haram, when they should closely cooperate to solve the problem.

The setting of both blame games is no less condemnable. The president launched his unwise tirade at a Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) zonal rally in Bauchi. Governor Nyako made his provocative presentation in the United States, at a symposium from March 17-19, organised by the US Institute for Peace, which invited all the 19 northern governors.

It was soulless for President Jonathan to go to Bauchi; and attempt to tar North East governors on Boko Haram — and all of this on the hustings. Yet, the same president could not create time to visit the same North East to condole with the victims’ families, even when Boko Haram slaughtered innocent pupils of Federal Government College, Buni Yadi, in Yobe State. It is the height of presidential folly to deny traumatised locals the needed compassion, yet go back to the same area to brag you would sweep the polls.

On the other hand, it was culpable lack

of statesmanship that made Governor Nyako to frontally attack the president on a foreign soil, suggesting President Jonathan was comfortable with the Boko Haram tragedy. It was a classic example of how not to politicise a living nightmare, in a foreign capital.

There simply must be a limit to playing politics with Boko Haram, and both the president and governor deserve severe knocks for their indiscretion.

That said, what should concern every right-thinking Nigerian is how to face down and defeat Boko Haram, and not what political capital anyone could claim from a pestilence that has claimed lives of hundreds of innocent Nigerians. On Boko Haram, what Nigerians expect is close cooperation, not fierce competition, between the president and governors of that affected region. Even then, the president must always show leadership, befitting his office as the highest in the land.

Still, the buck passing has revealed ugly underbellies, from which the two camps can learn and make amends.

The president focused on the process leading to Boko Haram, and was spot on, on the allegation that neglect of primary and secondary education in the areas has created a ready and willing pool of Boko Haram recruits. Though there has been a counter-argument that Boko Haram harbours not a few educated cadres, frustrated and angry at the unjust Nigerian system, the neglect of basic education is no less valid.

The governor, on the other hand, focused on the grotesque final product: the Boko Haram pestilence, to which the Jonathan

Presidency seemed to have little clue, until quite recently, when the terror group’s capability appears reduced to soft targets; and its attacks restrained to local areas, as against an earlier period when it bombed, killed and maimed virtually the whole North at will.

The presidential and gubernatorial camps should take some positives from their mutual macabre dances. The president cannot afford to pass any buck. He is commander-in-chief and has a monopoly of command of the Nigerian state’s security agencies. Passing the buck is a sign of weakness, not of strength — and it is crassly un-presidential.

The North East governors, on the other hand, must swallow the bitter pill and scale up their commitment to basic education of their citizens. Even if the bulk of the present generation cannot be saved, the future generation of youths must not be beyond redemption.

‘That said, what should concern every right-thinking Nigerian is how to face down and defeat Boko Haram, and not what political capital anyone could claim from a pestilence that has claimed lives of hundreds of innocent Nigerians. On Boko Haram, what Nigerians expect is close cooperation, not fierce competition, between the president and governors of that affected region’

Examples from Italy

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•Nigeria has not been able to tame corruption because the will is lacking

ORRUPTION is no doubt a global scourge that is not limited to any country. Yet, some countries have substantially curtailed its prevalence to such an extent that it does not pose a formidable obstacle on the path of development. The existence in such countries of stringent anti-corruption laws that are strictly and impartially enforced serves as a deterrent against a thriving culture of graft. An example of such uncompromising stance against corruption was the recent conviction and sentencing to three years in prison of the Chief Executive of the Italian energy giant, Eni, Paolo Scaroni, by a court in the north-eastern town of Rovigo.

Interestingly, Scaroni did not face legal sanction for financial fraud. Rather, he was found guilty of failing to uphold adequate environmental standards at the

‘These examples from Italy show that it is indeed possible to effectively fight corruption where there is the requisite will.

The necessary conditions to achieve this objective include the requisite water-tight legislation, strong anti-corruption agencies with the institutional autonomy to discharge their functions as well as an efficient and transparent legal/judicial system’

Porto Tolle power plant when he was Chief Executive Officer at the Italian utility company, Enel. His negligence was responsible for air pollution at the coalburning plant in violation of Italian law.

As a result of his conviction, hopes of Scaroni’s re-nomination by the government for a third term as Eni’s Chief Executive in May this year have been dashed. He also stands banned for holding public office for five years. The fact that he is described as one of Italy’s most powerful businessmen did not insulate Scaroni from justice.

In a bid to fight corruption and improve the country’s corporate accountability, the Italian government has directed statecontrolled companies to dismiss any director found guilty or indicted for certain crimes. Silvio Berlusconi, who served as Italian Prime Minister at various times for nine years, was on August 1, 2013, convicted of tax-fraud by the final appeal instance, Court of Cassation, and sentenced to four years imprisonment and a public office ban for two years.

True, three of the four-year sentence is pardoned and Berlusconi will do unpaid social community work rather than face direct imprisonment since he is over 70 years old. That does not mitigate the damage done to his reputation. This is because he has been banned from the Senate and barred from serving any legislative office for six years.

These examples from Italy show that it is indeed possible to effectively fight corruption where there is the requisite will.

The necessary conditions to achieve this objective include the requisite water-

tight legislation, strong anti-corruption agencies with the institutional autonomy to discharge their functions as well as an efficient and transparent legal/judicial system. The absence of all these ingredients in the Nigerian context has made her much trumpeted anti-graft war little more than a farce.

In Nigeria, the anti-graft agencies are too feeble and are most times constrained from taking decisive action against corruption for political reasons.

Even when suspects are charged to court for corruption, it is all too easy for clever lawyers to find technical loopholes in our laws to get their clients off the hook.

Aside from the pervasive corruption that characterises the judiciary, the process of prosecution can be so complicated and cumbersome. The consequence is that cases are needlessly prolonged with frequent adjournments as well as endless appeals and cross appeals from one judicial level to the other.

This situation encourages brazen corruption since perpetrators of such acts are confident that they can enjoy political protection and that, even if discovered, they can exploit the loopholes of the legal process to escape justice. Thus, corrupt bank chief executives as well as those charged with embezzling humongous amounts through pension fund and fuel subsidy frauds, for instance, are all walking free despite ongoing theatrical court trials. The bottomline is lack of the political will, particularly on the part of President Goodluck Jonathan to fight corruption despite his frequent affirmations to the contrary.

Rwanda’s recovery must be secured

– Kagame has been central but his time is nearly up

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O African president divides opinion quite as sharply as Paul Kagame, nor inspires such contrasting caricatures. He is lauded as a visionary statesman both by supporters at home and influential admirers across the world – an almost unique example in Africa of a leader whose relentless pursuit of development has delivered peace and increased prosperity in the face of staggering odds. In equal measure he is castigated as a bloodstained tyrant – one with extraordinary licence to repress dissent, whose persistent meddling has contributed to destabilising the neighbouring Democratic Republic of Congo at the cost of countless lives.

One question looming over Rwanda as it marks the 20th anniversary of the onset of genocide is whether Mr Kagame will know when best to bow out. Although the constitution states clearly he must hand over power in 2017 after serving two elected terms as president, there is no easy answer.

The polemics surrounding the man were partly born of the extreme circumstances in which he found his country when the guerrilla movement he commanded came to power. Rwanda was in ruins. Two decades on there is little doubt as to the central role he has played in establishing order and restoring hope after ending the 20th century’s swiftest and crudest act of mass murder.

With the same ruthless discipline as he once prosecuted guerrilla warfare, he has begun to transform the tiny mountain nation, driven by the belief that improving livelihoods for all will prove the most effective way to efface the divisive ideology that led to genocide. While Rwanda has made strides in this direction, the job is far from over and inequality is still rife. Government officials continue to work the longest hours, juggling a vast array of competing priorities in their efforts to rebuild society and state.

Yet the polemics that dog Mr Kagame are not only inspired by the past. They are also the result of contemporary signs of the revolution eating its own children. After the recent assassination of his former external intelligence chief, exiled in South Africa, he spoke with chilling effect of the consequences of betrayal. Among his detractors, this reinforced the perception of a man willing to go to any lengths to remain in power.

Mr Kagame argues that outsiders, offering prescriptions as to how he and his administration should behave, view the Rwandan genocide as an isolated event in history and underestimate its legacy. One of these is the fear, predominately but not exclusively among members of his ethnic Tutsi minority, of what happens when he goes. It is in this context that a campaign has begun to change the constitution so that he can remain in office beyond 2017.

Those in favour argue that Rwandans should be allowed to decide for themselves how quickly and on what terms they open up the political space. The problem is that in an environment where freedom of expression and political association is strictly limited, it is very difficult to know at what point keeping the lid so firmly on becomes counter-productive. The only way to find out is to try.

Mr Kagame is a young 56. The courageous way he has tackled continental taboos has won him influence internationally and admiration among many Africans whose own leaders are wanting. There are many roles he could play to further African interests on a larger stage. First, however, he and his government should prepare for a smooth succession at home and quell support for him to stay in power indefinitely.

Rwanda’s circumstances are exceptional. But there are too many precedents that show how quickly achievements can unravel when rulers begin to believe that they alone hold the answer.

– Financial Times

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

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THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 2014

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CARTOON & LETTERS

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IR: It is almost a year now that academic activities in federal polytechnics across the country has been halted as a result of the prolonged strike action by the Academic Staff of Union of Polytechnics (ASUP).The most pathetic of all in the unfolding tragedy is the media blackout for the first four months of the strike.

The major part of ASUP demands is the repeal of the Polytechnic Act and also the implementation of the White Paper of Federal Government Polytechnic Visitation Committee. These two demands are very germane if truly we really need polytechnics that will play a vital role in the educational, scientific and technological progress of Nigeria. Polytechnics are established to train and produce the technical manpower necessary for execution of the nation’s development plans, goals and strategies.

One other demand of the striking polytechnic lecturers is the establishment of National Polytechnic Commission (NPC). This is because the National Board for Technical Education Act 9 of January 1977, which places Polytechnics under the purview of the National Board for Technical Education

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Still on Polytechnic teachers strike ers is the issue of underfunding.

The results of manifest under-funding of our Polytechnics are to be found in the poor maintenance of existing facilities and infrastructures, of crammed spaces and un-

wholesome learning environment.

Today, students contribute money to buy markers, white board, board, chalk and practical materials in their various campuses just as campus hostels are noting to

IR: As a well-groomed in the field of Statistics. I took my time to do my research on what led to the sudden growth of our GPD which portrays us as the Africa’s largest economy and the 26th world’s largest economy.

According to the StatisticianGeneral of the Federation, Dr. Kunle Kalejaiye our GDP was improved due to the upgrading of our base year from 1990 to 2010.

He further backed his analysis on theground that some certain

sectors of the economy like Telecommunications, ICT and others made them to upgrade the base year because of the nonexistence of the sectors in 1990.

As far as I agreed with the data but one can only deduce that the growth in the GDP is on nominal growth not real GDP. The GDP is the market value of the good and services produced in a country within a given period of time. It is an important indicator to measure the growth of the economy. While

there is a difference between growth and development in an economy, it will be very important to note that we are only experiencing growth in the figures without substantial improvement in the key-sectors that reflect in the standard of living of the entire populace.

Why are we seeing figures on papers everyday without physical reflection in our economy? If adequate steps can be taken to gear

munities as a means of transporting farm products to these markets.

However, lack of maintenance has made the road nearly impassable at the moment, consequent upon which many farm products lie waste in the farms. The most deplorable section of the road is at Ajinapa village in Orire local government. Absence of drainage in that village contributed to the collapse of that section of the road. It

is obvious that local governments in the area are incapable of fixing this road due to their lean purse as they made us to know. This makes the intervention of Oyo State government imperative. The on-going work on the expansion of Ikoyi road and Ikirun road sections of IkirunIgbeti highway in Ogbomoso township, embarked upon by the Oyo State government is highly commendable. No doubt, the project is

money consuming. However, fixing the above mentioned road will make these local government feel the impact of the state government and grateful for it. Government is advised to give the road urgent attention it demands before the advent of rain which may cut of the villages from the outside world.

(NBTE), has outlived its usefulness.

Current demands on polytechnic education require an abrogation of the law.

But then, the core of the demands of the striking polytechnic teach-

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Rebasing the GDP: The missing link

SOS to Ajimobi on Iresa-Gambari-Tewure Road

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IR: The attention of the able governor of Oyo State, Senator Abiola Ajimobi is being drawn to the deplorable condition of the above mentioned road which transverses Surulere and Orire Local Government Areas. The road which started from Iresaadu, the headquarters of Surulere Local Government links two very important regional markets – Gambari and Tewure. It equally serves many com-

write about.

Now that the strike is nearing a whole year, Academic Staff of Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) needs to step up the struggle with mass protests to draw attention to the issues; the National Association of Nigeria Polytechnic (NAPS) must be ready to mobilize Nigerian Polytechnic students to compel the government to meet the demands of lecturers. It is only through this we can fight and win the struggle for revitalization of Nigeria Polytechnics.

• Dimeji Macaulay Minna, Niger State.

• Adewuyi Adegbite Apake, Ogbomoso.

up the recent growth of GDP by providing adequate infrastructures, employment opportunities, stable power supply and security of lives and property, the common man will begin to smell the improvement in the economy. I want Nigerians to know without being misinformed that we only supercede South-Africa in terms of nominal GDP growth as a result of the current base year we are adopting but South-Africa is not our match when we are talking on real GDP and the level of standard of living/per capital income which the common man on the street can feel.

Nigerians are tired of hearing figures that don’t impact positively in their lives. Rather, there is a need for the economic team to design a robust policy that will better the lives of Nigerians rather than mere figures without development.

• Ismael Taiwo A. Ibadan.

THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 2014

COMMENTS

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HY opponents of Asiwaju his means of livelihood Bola Tinubu, a national leader because of the almighty crude of the All Progressives that spills all over. Now, no Congress (APC), often shirk from thanks to those spills, he is engagement on ideas, could be gleaned unemployed and perhaps from the March 29 colloquium in Lagos, unemployable. Now that his meant to mark his 62nd birthday. goose is cooked, his country It was tagged The Summit of the has moved on to more urgent Common Man. matters, than the plaintive cry On parade were some truly common, of a local fisherman with Olakunle and not so common folks. But all were poisoned ponds. lordbeek1@gmail.com, 08054504169 (Sms only, please) Abimbola afflicted by the everyday problem in The next four are caught in the Nigerian state that incorrigibly the Boko Haram tragedy in boasts the too common plague of Nigeria’s North East. One shirking responsibility. lost his uncle, aside from wife It was the summit equivalent of that bore him six children. He Lagbaja, the musical persona. Lagbaja, lectures at the University of thirsty insurrection. the music man, is masked; the telling anonymity of the street Maiduguri and the Islamists wanted him, the very symbol of In the neighbouring Buni Yadi, Yobe State, the crazed folk that feels the pinch. At the Summit of the Common Man, Boko Haram — Western education is sin — but killed his wife Islamists brutally slaughtered innocents in a Federal the common man came well and truly unmasked! in his stead.

Government College.

The president never visited: to The roll call: Nasir Bala, Ron Mgbatogu, Bathsaida Home Another is a teacher in a secondary school, who on two commiserate with the slain; or in solidarity with the troops, for the Blind — a struggling charity for the disadvantaged occasions lost his students to the murderous Islamists. The as commander-in-chief. and rejected: the quintessential common man — Eric Dooh, two times his school was attacked, the security forces of his Yet, there was the president in Bauchi, passing the buck, Elizabeth Unah, Musa Ali, Adamu Baba, Yusuf Audu, and the country were caught napping. Though he escaped with his trading blames with North East governors and boasting his unemployed chemical engineering graduate of Niger Delta own kids, the trauma of the slain youngsters, under the party would sweep the North East in 2015!

University, Bayelsa, Sopriye Victor. school’s charge, would live with him for the rest of his days.

Now, was this the normal real-politik issuing from political This was a summit of telling symbolisms — how Nigeria The next two would just not fold their arms, while Boko braggadocio or absolute contempt for the local voters?

Still, has got it wrong; and more importantly, how Nigeria could Haram made a devilish feast of the cream of the local contrast the Bauchi show with the Lagos summit, and how get it right. It is like a well crafted novel or play: no overt manpower. So, they banded together with others to form the the APC used the occasion to sell its road map, and it is clear preaching. But the message comes clear from its nuanced famed Civilian JTF — JTF after the military Joint Task Force. the hustings for 2015 are here. plot and rich imagery.

This cadre of braves somewhat succeeded in running Boko The federal ruling party brags, despite its parlous Justice Isola Olorunnimbe said the opening prayers. He Haram out of Maiduguri, into the adjourning rural areas and performance.

The foremost opposition reasons, despite a lunched off the Christian way, but with his cap on, after a bushes. discernible pattern of brilliance by its governors.

It promises, hilarious joke about the imperative for brevity of prayers on As confirmed by the victim university and secondary school indeed, a campaign of contrasts! such occasions. But in a jiffy, he made a seamless transition teachers, Boko Haram’s audacious assassinations have greatly But back from political hubris to the common man, the into Islamic prayers! reduced in Maiduguri metropolis, thanks to the Civilian JTF. ultimate victim of that hubris. It is also back to the Lagbaja That is a South West gift to Nigeria: why should adherents These braves appear to have heeded the John Kennedy (Yoruba for “somebody”) metaphor. make enemies of themselves, when they pray to the same injunction: ask what you can do for your country — and done All on parade at the summit were just somebody — mere Almighty God, father of all humanity? it. But pray, what has their country done for them? statistics: united in impotence, from tragedies and discomfort, Then Anglican Cleric, the Most Reverend Ephraim The unemployed graduate is the all too grotesque face of as a result of the omission or commission by the Nigerian Ademowo, chaired the occasion. Yet, Tinubu is an APC the Nigerian youth — hurting, angry, scorned and rejected. state. chieftain, the party, by the propaganda of Olisa Metuh, But after, even against all odds, she managed to found a beauty One was a communication royal, even passing through the spokesperson for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), is an salon, came the 2012 “floods of Noah” that sacked everything. great portals of Lintas-Lagos, an advertising aristocracy, if “Islamic” party. A Christian priest schmoozing with rabid Now, she is back to where she belongs: the ranks of the ever there was one.

But in his grey years, after giving his Islamists? A quiet answer to the hare-brained Islamist charge! unemployed — or, as they of the comfort zone love to snap professional all to his country, the retiree has nothing to fall Ironically, that same day, President Goodluck Jonathan was and leer: the ranks of the university unemployables! back on but the hospitality of a church. A country that neither holding a PDP North East zonal rally in Bauchi. Now, the Still, the Bathsaida Home for the Blind emerged perhaps cares for its youth nor its elders is criminal-minded to expect North East has borne the bestiality of Boko Haram and its bloodthe most profound image from the summit: a struggling any iota of patriotism. charity that rehabilitated a youth that lost his sight because Then another, an uncommon common man: a university ‘The Summit of the Common Man graduate, a former banker turned farmer. Now, this citizen of inability to pay for a glaucoma surgery that cost N200, 000! proud beneficiary and no less proud proprietor spoke at showcased the common man, with is no robber, either of the pen or bullet hue. He is irrevocably The the summit. But where was the government and the big committed to clean business. But alas! His country trembles common woes feeding a ticking at the sight of fertilizer rings. Though he works hard making charities at the youth’s crunch time?

The Summit of the Common Man showcased the common bomb. The government must do losses, the fertilizer ring reaps while lazing away — and he is man, with common woes, feeding a ticking bomb. The impotent, doing anything about it. the needful to defuse that bomb’ government must do the needful to defuse that bomb.

Yet another fisherman, in the Niger Delta creeks, must lose

epublican ipples

Common man, common woes, ticking bomb

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FTER the pictorial testimonial of March 15 showing hundreds of thousands of our youths swarming on stadia across the country for the Nigeria Immigrations Service jobs, I could not imagine any official treating Nigerians so soon to meaningless statistical platitudes on the economy let alone one seeking to paint a picture as distinct from reality as the latest one on the rebasing of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Not even the characterisation of Nigeria as a nation of anything goes would explain the wild exultations going on in Abuja over the routine statistical exercise which aside from changing nothing, actually adds pretty little to the knowledge on the Nigerian economy than is not already familiar.

Courtesy of the rebasing exercise, it is like Abuja has suddenly struck diamonds. The economy of the giant in the African sun is not just pronounced as standing pretty tall at $432 billion, it is now deemed to have finally outperformed that of its nemesis South Africa’s with the GDP of $370 billion. For this, we are supposed to owe a debt of thanks to the sleep-walkers at the Nigerian Bureau of Statistics (NBS), for rousing from their Rip van Winkle sleep to give Nigerians an updated GDP which matches their political masters’ version of the Nigerian Reality!

No one should miss what is clearly at the heart of the current obsession with phantom growth by the African giant. It is called hubris. The pattern is by now familiar: the claim about an economy which has maintained a steady growth path averaging seven percent per annum for over a decade. To the Abuja magic has now been added the rebasing arithmetic of throwing the hordes of ‘under-accounted’ sectors like telecommunications, the entertainment and the broadcasting into the mix to give a more realistic sector of the whole package! Talk of wuruwuru to the answer!

The charade must be seen for what it is – a fraud.

First, if it is any revealing, it is quantum of catch-up that the managers have to do in terms of their ability to grapple with the dynamics of the Nigerian economy over which they claim to superintend; second is the ignoble agenda of turning what appears to be an institutional lacuna into some advantage.

I could cite nearly half a dozen reasons why the

Policy Sanya Oni sanyaoni@yahoo.co.uk 08051101841

Magicians of Abuja hype and the needless ball in Abuja ought to have been more restrained – or better still – tempered.

To start with, the investing world knows the Nigerian economy far more than the managers would care to admit. They appreciate the huge population size – the dormant potentials waiting to be tapped.

They know the strengths and the weakness of the economy and the relative opportunities these present – the moribund state of the infrastructure; the harsh reality of doing business, the dearth of critical skills in the economy, the corruption, the red tape and the countless policies which impede business. They are familiar with the state of our agriculture and the difficulties facing the sector.

Indeed, if the latest unflattering scorecard from the World Bank which ranks Nigeria among the countries harbouring the highest number of the poor on the universe is any instructive, it is to the effect that the world knows us more than we seem to know ourselves – far more than a dozen rebasing exercise could ever wash!

I couldn’t therefore agree more with Bismarck Rewane – the chief executive officer of Financial Derivatives when he described the rebasing exercise as moving from reality to vanity. To that I may well add – delusion. Of all the reasons cited for the hoopla about the imperative of the rebasing exercise, the only one that appears to make some sense is that of the Debt to GDP ratio which is now evi-

dently in favour of more ratcheting more debts as elections approach!

All of this no doubt goes to show how far Abuja remains detached from the reality on the Main Street.

Delusion is when a country like Nigeria with a population more three times that of South Africa but whose per capita income is barely a third of the latter claims to have its economy bigger in size. Ever heard of market without effective demand – or disposable incomes?

Clearly, if the issue were simply about statistics, Nigeria ought to have arrived at the Eldorado by now. In the last decade, Nigeria has probably pumped more oil and sold at higher price than the two decades before it. Of course, the result in terms of how many has been lifted from poverty has been most disappointing.

While our policy wonks in Abuja have been content to chase inflation, stable exchange rates – the real enablers of the economy, the critical pillars on which a modern economy can be erected have been left unattended to. Whether the issue is transportation infrastructure, power and aviation, the story of slow but steady regression is almost the same. Nigerians have no need for the dubious statistics of a rebasing than they are ready to make sense of the decade of growth without the human component of development.

By the way, who wants the number one position in Africa anyway? A number one that imports anything from textiles to automobiles to basic consumer goods? A country where 80 percent struggle to make ends meet? A country whose educational sector lies in ruins? And where the young, in search of elusive jobs routinely end up in the morgue? Is that what Abuja magic all about?

‘While our policy wonks in Abuja have been content to chase inflation, stable exchange rates – the real enablers of the economy, the critical pillars on which a modern economy can be erected have been left unattended to’

THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 2014

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COMMENTS

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ETTING to know how many we are in Nigeria is a big problem. Even after many head counts we still cannot agree on the true size of our population. Not even the Federal Government can say confidently the number of people occupying this vast expanse of land called Nigeria. What a shame.

While the importance of an accurate census cannot be overemphasized, suffice to say that census is very crucial to any effective programme planning and implementation, especially by the government.

Why we seem incapable of getting our population census right beats one's imagination. And while several reasons have been adduced for this failure, the tying of resource allocation to states and local governments to the size of their population has been a big hindrance to accurate census. States and local governments are encouraged by this to inflate their population in order to get more resources from the federation account. You may take this as the economic reason.

But there is also the political reason. The bigger the size of the population of a state the bigger the size of its electorate, and if you stretch it further, the bigger it's political power, influence and clout at the national level, hence the perennial battle between Lagos and Kano States over which is the most populated in Nigeria. This could also determine the number of House of Representatives seat at the National Assembly allocated to each state.

While the jostle for more money and stronger political voice by the states at the federal level, using population figures could be considered as 'healthy' the one that is most disturbing is the throwing of religion into the equation by politicians. The battle now is which religion between Islam and Christianity has more followers in the country. While some Muslim leaders say Islam holds the edge, their Christian counterparts believe they are in the majority.

And you know why they are saying this?

Just for political gain. The other day a delegation of Muslims were at the Villa to see President Goodluck Jonathan and one of their

‘Religion is a very delicate and dangerous issue that our leaders should not mix with politics. Any politician or leader who loves Nigeria would not mix the two’

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2015: Playing the religion card complaints was that Muslims (who according to them are in the majority in Nigeria) are being shortchanged in this country and they cited the composition of the ongoing national conference which they said was skewed in favour of the Christians. Some christian leaders, especially since Jonathan became president, have been shouting from the roof top claiming marginalization (of Christians) all this while (pro-Jonathan) and threatening all sort if the president was not returned in 2015.

The latest of this dangerous religious card being played by politicians is the likely Muslim/Muslim presidential ticket the main opposition All Progressives Congress (APC) is being speculated as planning for the 2015 presidential election. The two national leaders of the party and its leading lights, Alhaji Mohammadu Buhari and Alhaji Bola Ahmed Tinubu are Muslims and are both being tipped as presidential and vice presidential candidates of the party in next year’s election.

The social media has gone into overdrive since the speculation surfaced in the main stream media over the weekend and from the tone of the discussion the neutrals might be inclined to think that Nigeria is on the brink of a religious war. Far from it. But I doubt whether their is anybody out there without a position on the likely presidential ticket of the two leading parties in 2015.

While common sense dictates that the parties will strike a balance between Christians and Muslims in their choice of candidates to run for the offices of president and vice president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in 2015, the elite who are fanning the embers of religious division within the polity should be careful lest they get consumed by the fire they are stoking.

Rather than promoting ethnic and religious division among Nigerians, these self centered elite should be talking about good govern-

ESPAIR. That’s the stomach churning feeling you get when you hear terrible news. Despondency, anguish and misery are other appropriate words. When you hear of young men and women being trampled to death under the soles of their compatriots, it sucks the hope out of you like a vacuum connected to your innards. If your imagination is vivid and automatically stimulated, you immediately imagine the scene, the screams, and the horror. If you are obligatorily empathic, you put yourself under the shoes- the tennis shoes, the ’Nikes’ and the boots. You feel them on your back and in your eyes, in your crotch and on your knees. You realize you are dying but you wonder what will kill you- would it be the feet cracking your skull or the bodies falling on you and trapping the air in your lungs. You start to shout and that’s the last mistake you will ever make.

Without attempting to speak for most people, it clear that the varying reactions by the different arms of the Nigerian government so far, to the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) tragedies fall short of the ideals of democracy and are therefore unsatisfactory. At the risk of sounding like a typical bad belle Nigerian who never sees anything right in the actions of those in power, I am going to explain my continued discontent.

A proper place to begin will be to tackle the opposition. In a working democracy, the role of the opposition goes beyond shouting criticisms; it includes displaying alternatives and proffering solutions. There are several states run by opposition parties in this country yet all states have equally dire levels of unemployment and underemployment. Since job creation is not only the business of the federal government, states that are equally failing to provide jobs clearly lack the moral standing to criticize the federal government.

More disheartening is the response of the National Assembly. The peculiar case of the Nigerian legislature can be illustrated with the example of a certain businessman having two employees. The first earns eight million naira for every eighty thousand earned by the other but they somehow end up doing the same work. This example describes the ridiculous inefficiency displayed by the National Assembly when it responds to multiple manslaughters by investigation. Why would the National Assembly have committees carrying out investigations that should be carried out by purpose trained policemen and for much less? Why have they taken the jobs of the police and left their main duties of legislating unfulfilled? Investigations are necessary because they could result in justice for the deceased; however appropriate legislations which could prevent likely reoccurrences are equally important.

We need new laws, urgently, quickly and with lightning speed. We need comprehensive laws regulating the practice of recruitment in Nigeria. In spite of the abysmal organiza-

ance and which candidate(s) is/are best suited for the job at hand in 2015: leading Nigeria into the promised land.

I don't know what a Muslim/Muslim or a Christian/Christian presidency could do to improve the lot of the average Nigerian and indeed the entire country if the leaders so elected in 2015 turned out to be bad. What advantage accrued to Christians as a body with the Obasanjo presidency and what did the Muslims get exclusively under the Yar'Adua presidency? Those who benefitted were members of the ruling cabal (both in politics and business) drawn from the two main religions. For every Aliko Dangotes that was there during Obasanjo and Yar'Adua there was a Femi Otedola. Which common man or poor man did you see with them then?

I am just using these two successful businessmen and their likes to illustrate the fact that our leaders are drawn together more by interest rather than religion and their decisions are made along that line. How to reverse this trend should be our concern.

Religion is a very delicate and dangerous issue that our leaders should not mix with politics. Any politician or leader who loves Nigeria would not mix the two. While Christianity is very well entrenched in the Southeast/Southsouth and the Middle Belt regions, Islam is the main religion in the north while the two religions coexists peacefully in the Southwest. So much has been said about religious tolerance in the Southwest that some are recommending the region as a model to other parts of the country. The truth is that in Yorubaland our culture and tradition are considered sacrosanct almost above Christianity and Islam. Here religion is personal and one is expected to tolerate the other person's faith as long as it does not affect the free flow of society.

But this culture of religious tolerance is being stretched by politicians bent on grab-

bing power in the region at all cost and by all means. And this is dangerous for Yorubaland and may be Nigeria.

Most of the states in the Southwest have majority Muslim population yet our leaders have been Christians and nobody cared.

From Chief Obafemi Awolowo to Pa Adekunle Ajasin, Pa Abraham Adesanya, Chief Bola Ige et al, were all Christians and damn good leaders too. And the people followed them. Since the advent of democracy, the governorship of the states in the region has been rotating between Christians and Muslims while in a few of the states one religion has been in charge of the government house for a longer period. To the ordinary person on the street, this does not matter as long as the government is performing. But these desperate politicians are not seeing it that way; to them it is the turn of our faith to produce the next governor. This is the card some politicians are playing in Lagos State now as we move towards the 2015 governorship election in the state.

The incumbent Raji Fashola, a Muslim is not eligible for re-election as he would be completing his two terms of eight years next year and there is a clamour for a Christian to replace him. There is nothing bad in that if you ask me but then the primary consideration in searching for his successor should not be religion. Who can sustain what is on ground in Lagos and even surpass Fashola's achievements should be uppermost in the minds of those searching for his successor, if the person happens to be a Christian, fine, fantastic. There are Christians who can do it if the leaders search well and the electorate approve.

Lagos has been a model in Nigeria in so many respect and should remain so. Nothing should be done to derail the centre of excellence. Need I say the health of Lagos is the health of Nigeria?

Back to Abuja and the Jonathan's national conference. It would be good if the delegates could resolve the issue of religion and it's place in our national life. There is so much talk about Nigeria being a secular state yet our leaders still use state resources to sponsor religious activities. Pilgrimages should be a private affair, left in the hands of the religious bodies set up by the faithful. Government needs only to set up the guidelines and get involved only when consular matters crop up. The amount of money government spends on pilgrimages is one of the reasons these religious groups/bodies are clamouring for one of their own to be in government. If this kind of attraction is no longer there, may be the agitation would wane. May be.

NIS tragedy and our faltering democracy

By Tola Abraham tion of the tragic NIS interviews, the situation was made far worse by the several thousands of graduates who in spite of not being invited to the interviews, made their way there. The law should also proscribe the practice currently prevalent of employers inviting sometimes as high as 50 times more interviewees for the position needed. A situation where 90% of persons attending an interviewing have no chance of getting the job, means 90% of those people will have spent time, money and hope on very poor odds. Can you imagine being unemployed for over two years and part of that 90% forty times, How desperate will you be? Job seekers in Nigeria deserve better.

Reluctantly I write about the executive, as reluctantly as a teacher will speak against that nice student impeded by cognitive disabilities. The federal government’s attempt at ‘placating the mob’, is of the regretfully funny variety.

The basic rule of natural justice is a man should not be a judge in his own matter. This simply means that in any situation where one party is both the accused and the judge, what results cannot be called justice. Therefore, when through direct actions of the executive, young Nigerians die, how can anyone applaud the attempts of the same executive at adjudicating the matter?

Inherent in a democracy are checks and balances; executive corruption or negligence cannot be tamed by that same executive in a working democracy. If the President wanted to resolve the issue speedily out of the respect for the deceased, the appropriate response will be admitting fault (civil responsibility) and then referring affected persons to the courts for identification and compensation. The courts are more equipped to determine what constitutes appropriate and sufficient compensation. The executive attempt is poorly thought out and has added more confusion to the system.

Fellow Nigerians, for the love of all that is sane, when did automatic employment become a method of compensation?

We have gotten ourselves in these quagmires as a country, as a result of people being in public positions for reasons other than merit. This has to stop. Death of a family member is not enough reason to deny better qualified people the jobs they deserve. We cannot encourage excellence when our system does nothing to reward it. How can we encourage our children to be their academic bests when every other reason but merit is the criteria for employment?

More importantly, there are several principles guiding the award of damages/compensation in cases of wrongful death.

Imagine that one of the deceased was an only child; can employment given to three family members of that family have the same effect as another family with seven unemployed children? Imagine again that one of the deceased was educated up to PhD level and another was an SSCE holder; is justice served if both families get the same compensation? There are many more questions the executive is not equipped to consider let alone answer. This is the job of the judiciary.

However, the real culprit in all these, the agent of the state worth picketing is the Nigerian police. When citizens of a country die obviously non-natural deaths, it should go without saying that such deaths be investigated. Investigation should uncover cause and criminal responsibility. Every individual whose act or negligence caused those deaths should be held accountable; everyone from the officer/consultant who planned an exercise with such soaring levels of disregard for public safety, to the officers who whipped people with belts allegedly setting off the stampede. This is why we have laws and a police force.

Democracy is beyond elections no matter how free and fair.

It is a system with basic principles and specialized institutions.

Demanding excellence and precision from our institutions is the only way to strengthen democracy. Our current political situation is in the truest sense the Kantian barbarism, worse, it is an elected barbarism. The ‘democracy’ of ants in a colony is ten times more admirable. This is the sad truth.

• Ms Abraham a lawyer, lives in Abuja

‘Democracy is beyond elections no matter how free and fair. It is a system with basic principles and specialized institutions. Demanding excellence and precision from our institutions is the only way to strengthen democracy. Our current political situation is in the truest sense the Kantian barbarism, worse, it is an elected barbarism. The ‘democracy’ of ants in a colony is ten times more admirable’

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TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 2014

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A money laundering scheme involves three phases: placement, layering and integration. In the placement, money is deposited in a financial institution through ‘front operation’ that provides a pseudo-legitimate source for the money

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EYOND his quiet mien was a radical streak which left many who saw him as a conservative confounded. The late Godwin Olusegun Kolawole Ajayi (SAN) did not look any bit like a radical, yet he exhibited that trait in his handling of some cases.

The cases showed that he always sided with the underdog whenever the state trampled on their rights. Take for instance the Shugaba and Fawehinmi cases. These were two of the famous political cases he handled.

G.O.K, who died in Lagos on March 28, believed in fighting his battles in court. His likes are rare to come by. He was humane, simple, compassionate and upright. His place in Nigeria’s legal history cannot be denied.

For almost 60 years, Godwin Olusegun Kolawole Ajayi (SAN) was a force to reckon with in the legal profession.

Popularly known as G.O.K, he handled many famous political cases, yet he was unassuming. G.O.K died in Lagos 11 days ago. He was 82. PRECIOUS IGBONWELUNDU writes on his life and times.

His life history

fearless and brilliant advocacy led to the discharge and acquittal of the embattled General Lekwot and his kinsmen. Thereafter, a grateful Atyap Community unanimously and joyously conferred the honourary title “ACHOK ATYAP” on G.O.K. ‘Achok Atyap’ means the “The Guardian of Atyap.”

In 1993, Ajayi led seasoned lawyers to defend the presumed winner of June 12, 1993 Presidential election, Chief M.K.O. Abiola, against the charge of treason preferred against him by the General Sani Abacha regime for demanding the actualisation of his mandate to rule Nigeria as president in the election which was annulled by General Ibrahim Babangida’s regime.

His other side

Ajayi was born on Friday, May 29, 1931 at Itantebo quarters in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State.

He attended St. Saviour’s School, Lagos, between 1938 and 1940 after leaving Ijebu-Ode Nursery School in 1937. Ajayi proceeded to CMS Grammar School, Lagos. He was there from 1941 to 1948, after which he went to the United Kingdom where he studied at the London School of Economics and Political Science. In 1955, at the age of 24, Ajayi was called to the English Bar and two years later (1957), he was called to the Nigerian Bar, from whence he began practice as a private practitioner and also took part-time lecturing job at the Nigerian Law School between 1963 and 1971.

He was conferred with the Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) title in 1978 alongside Chief Obafemi Awolowo (SAN); Chief Remi Fani- Kayode (SAN); Prince Tanimose Bankole Oki (SAN); E.A Molajo (SAN); Kehinde Sofola (SAN); Chief Richard Akinjide (SAN); Chief Olisa Chukura (SAN); Dr. Nwakanma Okoro (SAN); Dr. Mudiaga Odje (SAN); P. O Balonwu (SAN); Prof Ben Nwabueze (SAN) and Dr. Augustine Nnamani (SAN).

Their set was second to that of 1975 which had Chief FRA Williams (SAN) and Dr. Nebo Graham Douglas. Of both sets only Chief Akinjide and Prof. Nwabueze are alive today.

As gentle as he was, Ajayi was also stubborn, especially in ideals he believed in. An example of his stubbornness was when he walked out of a court in June 2005 to register his displeasure over the dismissal of his argument by Justice Olubunmi Oyewole in a $240 million alleged fraud case against Emmanuel Nwude and others.

After his argument that the Economic and Financial Commission (EFCC) was usurping the prosecutorial powers of the Nigeria Police in the suit was knocked out by the trial judge, the erudite lawyer in protest parked his books and left the court but returned at the next adjournment (27 days later) to continue the trial.

How to immortalise Ajayi

Passion for developing jurisprudence Ajayi’s passion for the adherence to justice and the rule of law endeared him to many.

As a progressive lawyer, he never shied away from courses that were seen by many lawyers as ‘no go areas’. Even in the heart of military dictatorship, he stood his grounds and fought legal battles against the oppressors of the common man.

As the main lawyer to the defunct Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN), Ajayi in 1979 challenged the presidential election that gave victory to Alhaji Shehu Shagari and not Chief Awolowo. The matter, Awolowo vs Shehu Shagari, which was argued up to the Supreme Court, had Chief Akinjide on the other side.

After a long legal battle, the Supreme Court panel headed by then Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) Justice Atanda Fatayi-Williams, on September 26, 1979, upheld the argument of Chief Akinjide that 12 2/3 = 19.

Other judges on the panel were Justices Ayo Irikefe, Mohammed Bello, Kayode Eso, and Mohammed Lawal Uwais, with the late Justice Eso delivering the minority judgment that remainsa classic in legal circles till date.

Then, in 1981, Ajayi came to the rescue of Abdurrahman Shugaba, a majority leader in the Borno State House of Assembly, who was unjustly deported on January 24, 1980 by the Federal Government to Chad Republic on grounds that his father was a Chadian. Then, Minister of Interior, Bello Maitama, in a deportation order classified Shugaba as a prohibited immigrant and whisked him away to a village in Chad.

But the Shagari-led Federal Government’s action was greeted with opprobium, which prompted the government to institute a oneman tribunal of inquiry presided over by Justice P.C. Okanbo.

Ajayi took up Shugaba’s defence and argued his case to the disadvantage of the government which brought a woman from Chad who claimed to be Shugaba’s mother. From the High Court through the Supreme Court, Shugaba won the fundamental human rights suit against the government, and in the landmark unanimous decision delivered by Justice G.B.A. Coker, the apex court declared as illegal the deportation of Shugaba, which till

See page 37

•Ajayi

G.O.K: Exit of a legal titan

date has remained relevant in human right cases.

He was lead counsel in the equally famous August 16, 1983 political declaration that led to crisis in old Ondo State and transited into a legal battle between then governor, the late Adekunle Ajasin and his deputy, Akin Omoboriowo, who defected from the UPN to the National Party of Nigeria (NPN). After the Federal Electoral Commission (FEDECO)’s declaration of Omoboriowo as winner, the state was thrown into crisis.

Scores were killed and houses razed as people protested the outright rigging.

Ajayi came into the picture when the UPN dragged FEDECO to court; and, in a unani-

mous decision, the Supreme Court restored the peoples’ mandate.

Other landmark cases handled by Ajayi included Bola Ige vs Victor Olunloyo (Oyo State Gubernatorial Election Dispute); Adeyinka Badejo Vs. Federal Government of Nigeria (Loco standi case on Federal Character); Federal Government vs Chief Gani Fawehinmi SAN (treasonable felony) Another famous client of G.O.K was retired General Zamari Lekwot, who with some other members of the Atyap community of Kaduna State was charged with murder before a Special Military Tribunal headed by Justice Okadigbo over the Zango Kataf disturbances in 1990. Against all odds, G.O.K’s

Akinjide said the profession will discuss and decide on something befitting, adding that Ajayi was a great lawyer whom he respected very much.

Former NBA President Rotimi Akeredolu (SAN) said his good works would always be there to speak for him, noting that he was no doubt a great man. ‘‘He was a great son of the Yoruba land, who was courageous with his progressive approach. I will suggest that the Southwest progressive states should come together and name something befitting after him,’’ he said.

Chief Felix Fagbohungbe (SAN) said as one of the best lawyers the country ever produced, a great monument should be named after him by the NBA and Lagos Judiciary. ‘‘He is a national leader in the contemporary of FRA Williams. He has contributed tremendously to the development of our jurisprudence and is not a name you wish away.

So, I think the country, the NBA, Lagos Judiciary as well as Ogun, his home-state should immortalise him by naming something befitting after him,’’ he said.

To Norrison Quakers (SAN), the Nigerian Law School should be renamed after Ajayi because the deceased was a lawyer’s lawyer whose dedication to law practice was unequalled. ‘‘The Nigerian Law School or a federal monument should be named after him. Also I think the younger generation can immortalise him by upholding his dedication to law practice, his discipline, focus and intellect. ‘‘He passion for legal practice, advocacy and the rule of law as well as his commitment to the practice of law can never be forgotten,’’ said Quakers.

Tributes President, Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Okey Wali (SAN) described Ajayi as “one of the best gentlemen I have ever come across.

For me, he was my mentor and idol. G.O.K, as he was fondly called by his admirers, would be sorely missed.

“The NBA celebrates his life. Evidently, it has been a great and worthy life. His image as a lawyer loomed so large that it was as if he was immortal and beyond death. That his life has been terminated is regrettable and a sad reminder of the mortality of all human beings,” he said.

To Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN), the death of Ajayi was a rude shock as he displayed no sign of ailment the last time they met. He described the deceased as a legal colossus, front bencher amongst the pioneer SANs and a remarkably outstanding forensic advocate whose penchant for research and detection of minutest details, even in most complex and confounding causes, has now become legendary.

•Continued on page 26

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THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 2014

LAW COVER CONT’D

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•Continued from page 25 ‘‘The last time we met and discussed, he was still as sharp as a needle, very robust in thinking, agile at reasoning and profound in his pontifications. He displayed no sign of any ailment; and my wish, just like that of any of his teaming admirers was that he would still be on this part of the divide for a long while. Alas, ‘G.O.K’ has been called home to rest. ‘‘He was a towering father figure in the noble profession of law, even amongst his peers and contemporaries, and unarguably one of the very best the Nigerian legal firmament has ever produced. His death has undoubtedly created a big vacuum within the Nigerian legal circle; but the exemplary legacies and impressions which he left and created cannot be wiped off by the torrents of time. ‘‘His memories would always remain evergreen in the mind and psyche of any legal practitioner who appreciates what is good, noble and excellent. He was a teacher who generously impacted positively on younger generations of Nigerian lawyers, both in the classroom, as a part-time lecturer in the Nigerian Law School and in the courtroom as a doyen of the Bar. ‘‘He was forthright and at the same time pungent. His mastery of English language, both written and spoken was flawless. He was a master in the game of law. Although we would all miss him sorely, the fact remains that we would come across him on daily basis through his imperishable and erudite contributions to the legal profession. ‘‘Adieu our big ‘oga’, teacher, senior and role model. Sleep well in the bossom of your Master and Lord, until we meet again on the day of resurrection,’’ said Olanipekun.

Wahab Shittu said Ajayi was jurisprudence personified who was on the same pedestal with the likes of Chief FRA Williams, Chief Afe Babalola and Chief Gani Fawehinmi in terms of professionalism, efficiency and effectiveness.

He described Ajayi as a great man who believed in allowing the young to grow, adding that he had unparalleled generosity and a good sense of humour.

Shittu disclosed that his first physical contact with the legal guru was during the incarceration of Oodua Peoples’ Congress (OPC) founder, Dr. Fredrick Fasheun, who was defended by Ajayi. ‘‘The lot fell on G.O.K to defend him and someone smuggled my name into the defence team and I came face-to-face with the legendary G.O.K. It was one opportunity I grabbed with both hands. The encounter may have exposed me and the legal team which included Chief Ayo Opadokun and many others to the practice world of G.O.K.- early to come to the office, disciplined disposition to the professional work rate of the lawyers in his chambers, calm disposition to clients, excellent organisation of his law firm, civil and genial nature, team player ‘‘G.O.K saw the courtroom as a theatre and his baritone voice and rich delivery of legal arguments in a professional and methodical manner were his assets. Indeed, his cautious manners and orderly presentation of materials were attributes that every lawyer must aspire to emulate as G.O.K. was certainly a pride to the legal profession,’’ he said.

Shittu, who recalled a private dinner invitation he received from Ajayi at the deceased’s residence, noted that the legal giant had excellent table manners and was always ready to play the perfect host as he moved round to ensure everyone at the dinner was comfortable. ‘‘It turned out that the chemistry between him and his wife was highly infectious. It was clear that G.O.K. had a home that was peaceful, loving, caring and full of ac-

•Akinjide

•Osipitan

•Olanipekun

The NBA celebrates his life. Evidently, it has been a great and worthy life.

His image as a lawyer loomed so large that it was as if he was immortal and beyond death. That his life has been terminated is regrettable and a sad reminder of the mortality of all human beings

‘

•Fagbohungbe

•Quakers

•Adesina

•Shittu

•Oyetibo

•Falana

G.O.K Ajayi: Exit of a legal titan commodation and compassion.

Again, G.O.K. was a great man and a family man who was respected and adored at home. ‘‘G.O.K. was also a humanist and very generous to a fault. I will illustrate this attribute of generosity with two examples. I recall many cases that he handled probono for worthy causes including funding the trips in pursuit of such cases from his personal pocket.

Adesina Ogunlana, publisher of the Squib Magazine would recall how G.O.K. stood resolutely in his defence when attempts were made to sanction him because of his principled publications. G.O.K. would have none of that as he stood solidly behind Ogunlana and went as far as defending him before the relevant authorities until justice was done. That was vintage G.O.K,’’ he said.

Tayo Oyetibo (SAN) said Ajayi was a great advocate of high work ethics and a radical lawyer who was not widely known as such by many lawyers and even members of the public. ‘‘He voluntarily led over 100 lawyers in defence of Chief Gani Fawehinmi when he was detained in Gashua and charged by Gen Babangida’s military junta before the transition to civil rule Tribunal. It was at a time not many senior lawyers in Nigeria wanted to touch the case but Chief Ajayi openly identified with Chief Fawehinmi’s cause and turned the case into the trial of Babangida’s government by reason of which the case was discontinued. The Bar and the Bench would miss him’’.

Dele Adeshina (SAN) described Ajayi as one of the most brilliant, knowledgeable and articulate members of the legal profession.

He said: ‘‘His contribution to the profession was monumental. His name littered the law books. He was a great advocate, a master in the art of forensic advocacy. ‘‘In and out of court, Chief Ajayi SAN exhibited great candour, selfconfidence and self-pride. He car-

ried himself in and out of court with deliberate consciousness of his personality. ‘‘He was a gentleman per excellence and a man of integrity and honor. His dressing was impeccable. His appearance was irresistible.

In appearance, in advocacy, in character and learning, Chief G.O.K Ajayi was worthy of emulation. He was a mentor to very many legal practitioners including my humble self.’’

Recalling how he went to court on several occasions to listen to Ajayi’s arguments, Adeshina said that the late sage’s advocacy was pungent but gentle and penetrated the ears of both judges and listeners, adding ‘‘Chief Ajayi represented the finest ideal of a legal practitioner.

His death is a dissipation of the generation of star lawyers who made their marks between the 70s and 90s...He was a Bar man to the core. You cannot miss Chief G. O. K. at the annual Bar dinner of the NBA. His was always there with his immaculate white shirt, bow tie, cream suit and a red bound over his black trousers. The Bar and the legal profession have lost a giant.

However giants will continue to emerge in the legal profession. I wish his soul a perfect rest in the bosom of the Lord,’’ said Adeshina.

Former NBA Ikeja chairman, Adegbamigbe Omole, said Ajayi was a mentor and a role model to many lawyers who believe in integrity, which many SANs lack. ‘‘GOK was a man of integrity the quality which many senior colleagues in the rank of Senior Advocates are lacking today.GOK was a silent revolutionist always on the side of truth. He never compromised his principles and beliefs in fairness, equity and Justice. Highly cerebral and handled his cases diligently without compromising ethics. The legal community will miss him greatly especially at this time when standard and integrity is going down the drain in the legal pro-

fession. May the good Lord grant him eternal rest and consoles the family he left behind,’’ he said.

Professor of law, Taiwo Osipitan (SAN) said the bar and the country have lost a legal giant.

“He was highly cerebral and intellectually confident. He was very hardworking and upheld the ethics of the legal profession. We shall miss his intellect, guiding hands, leadership, fatherly advice and above all, his principles,” Osipitan said.

“An Iroko has fallen and the profession will never be the same again”, said chairman, NBA committee on legal practice, Funke Adekoya (SAN). She described Chief Ajayi’s death as a passing of an era.

“He was the one who challenged the Federal Government on quota for education and lawyers of his generation are fast disappearing. It is now left for those of us who are still here to carry on the baton. He was a great man and was respected and loved by many. His ethics were impeccable. No rumour or any negative thing about his practice. He was a role model to many of us. His life is a lesson for us to stick firmly to professional ethics and endeavour to fight for what we believe is right,” she said.

For defending pro democracy and human right activists, Chief Ajayi’s passport was seized while he was subjected to untold harassment by security forces. But he was not deterred as he was as constant as the northern star in the defence of rule of law and social justice. We walked together when Comrade Alao-Aka Bashorun led the NBA from 1987 to 1989. In the last few, years he was disturbed that the NBA had progressively compromised and lost its powerful voice. The greatest tribute that Nigerian lawyers can pay to Chief Ajayi is to resolve to liberate the NBA from the grip of reactionary and corrupt bar leaders.

Femi Falana (SAN) said Chief G.O.K. Ajayi was a graceful bour-

geois lawyer. Even though he was conservative, he defended progressive causes with uncanny audacity and relentless commitment. His knowledge of the law was unimpeachable. He had total contempt for corrupt judges and incompetent lawyers. For over four decades, his name featured prominently in the law reports and learned journals.

In spite of the incipient rottenness in the legal system, Chief Ajayi was never associated with corrupt practices.

He recalled that through the instrumentality of the law Chief Ajayi fought against the deportation of a Nigeria legislator, illegal seizure of passports of social critics and fraudulent election results perpetrated by criminally minded politicians. “He provided a robust defence for Chief Gani Fawehinmi SAN and Chief MKO Abiola when they were charged with political sabotage and treason respectively.

He was counsel to Chief Obafemi Awolowo and Chief Adekunle Ajasin”, he said..

Otunba Segun Otayemi, an Ogun State-based lawyer, described Chief Ajayi as, “a quintessential gentleman and one of the finest of law advocates”.

In tribute to the late sage, Dr. Babafemi Badejo (father to one of his defended), recalled how Ajayi spent his money to pursue his daughter’s case up to the Supreme Court without collecting a dimefrom them. Badejo, whose daughter, Adeyinka Badejo was denied admission into the Unity Schools in 1988 as a result of the quota system while a Minister’s daughter who scored lesser than his daughter got admission described Ajayi as an extraordinary lawyer, who refused to collect professional fee from him on grounds that it was his daughter who was the client and she cannot afford the bills. ‘‘I owe G.O.K. a lot. He was a great and selfless Nigerian. In 1988, my daughter (now a Senior UN official in Damascus, Syria) was in the same class in the same school with a minister’s (now Senate President) son.

She scored by far more than he did (about 50 points more) while seeking invitation for interview for entry into the so-called “Unity Schools” of the Federal Government. My daughter was not invited for interview because of her state of origin being deemed more developed while the minister’s son, her classmate was. ‘‘The two kids were resident in Lagos State and not where their respective great-grandfathers were born on the basis of which the Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN) was assessing them. Since I could not explain the discrimination to my daughter, I went to the Lagos High Court on September 29 1988 to seek explanation accompanied by my good friend Doye Olugbemi (now a Judge) as the Lawyer. ‘‘The lawyer on the Nigerian Federal Government (FGN) side was Moshood Adio who later became Chief Judge of Oyo State. It took no time for Justice (Mrs.) Akinboboye to adjourn an otherwise urgent mat •Continued on page 40

27

THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 2014

LAW & SOCIETY Can the Defence Minister, Gen Aliyu Gusau summon the military chiefs? No, argues Sebastian Hon in this article. He submits that the necessary laws must be amended.

‘Why Gusau can’t summon military chiefs’

M

ANY theories have been pro pounded, including but not limited to some ‘hidden terms of appointment,’ purportedly made between the appointing authority, President Goodluck Jonathan and the appointee, Gen Aliyu Gusau.

A critical examination of the necessary laws operative in Nigeria will be discussed here.

The starting point is the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. For the avoidance of any doubt, the provisions of Section 5(1)(a) of the 1999 Constitution as amended is to the following effect: 5(1) Subject to the provisions of this Constitution, the executive powers of the Federation– (a) shall be vested in the President and may, subject as aforesaid and to the provisions of any law made by the National Assembly, be exercised by him either directly or through the Vice-President or Ministers of the Government of the Federation or other officers in the public service of the Federation.

A quick, fleeting and non-critical examination of this provision may lead to the conclusion that Mr. President has absolute discretion in either performing his executive duties personally or through the VicePresident or Ministers of his choice. But a deeper, more reflective and dispassionate examination of the provision will reveal that Mr. President’s executive powers, as wide as they are, are limited by two factors: provisions of the Constitution itself or the provisions of any other relevant laws enacted by the National Assembly. This then means that by Section 5(1)(a) of the Constitution, Mr. President’s powers are not absolute, but are limited.

The question then is, has the National Assembly enacted relevant laws respecting crucial areas like national defence, intelligence and counter-terrorism? The answer is yes. There is in force the Terrorism (Prevention) (Amendment) Act No. 25 of 2013, signed into law by President Goodluck Jonathan himself. Section 1A of this Act has made the office of the National Security Adviser “the coordinating body for all security and enforcement agencies” in the fight against terrorism in Nigeria. The Minister of Defence has no role to play there whatsoever.

Also, Section 4 of the National Securities Act, Cap. N74, Laws of the Federation, 2004, has mandated Mr. President to appoint “a coordinator on National Security,” for the pur-

pose of “coordinating the intelligence activities of the National Security Agencies set up under Section 1 of this Act,” namely, the Defence Intelligence Agency, the National Intelligence Agency and the State Security Service.

From the scheme of things in Nigeria now, unless Mr. President confirms otherwise, the National Security Adviser, to the exclusion of the Defence Minister, has been performing these coordinating functions.

Even under the Armed Forces Act, Cap. A20, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004, the President is the Chairman of the Council, which is made up of the President, the Minister of Defence, the Chief of Defence Staff, the Chief of Army Staff, the Chief of Naval Staff and the Chief of Air Staff, while the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Defence is to serve as Secretary of the Council. See Section 4 of the Act. Even though the Defence Minister is placed graphically as number 2, Section 4(4) of that Act has further undermined his assumed position of No. 2 of the Council, by providing thus: (4) The Chairman may appoint a member of the Forces Council to perform the duties of the Chairman at any meeting of the Forces Council at which the Chairman is absent and the appointment may be either general or in respect of a particular meeting.

From the constitutional and statutory scheme of things in Nigeria, therefore, the Defence Minsiter is a Minister, simpliciter, of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, just like the other Minsiters; hence Military Chiefs, though are required to confer with him on certain defence matters, may lawfully choose not to, without incurring the wrath of the law. Unless the necessary laws are amended, the Defence Minister is just like any other Minster that reports directly to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria and has no power, whatsoever, to summon military chiefs to brief him on any matter. This position has nothing to do with the person of General Aliyu Gusau, a highly respected and thorough-bred ex-General of the Army. The law is what it is and is not what it ought to be.

Having said that, I will make bold to say that it is most dangerous to vest defence intelligence coordination in the hands of a single person or office, given the enormous security challenges we are facing as a nation and would likely face, unless God Almighty intervenes

•Hon

the Philippines, the Anti-Money Laundering Council, the Philippine Center on Transnational Crime and the Philippine National Police intelligence and investigative elements “shall serve as support agencies for the council.”

I will not hesitate to recommend a fusion of the US and the Philippine models, for effective counter-terrorism in Nigeria and the avoidance of any future occurrence of the presently suppressed spat between the respected Minister of Defence and the various armed forces eggheads.

In conclusion, whatever agreement Mr. President may have reached with Gen. Gusau prior to the latter’s appointment as Defence Minister is inferior to and must give way to the Constitution of Nigeria and all the relevant laws cited above. But that is not the end of the matter; such laws should also be amended by the National Assembly, if the fight against terrorism and organised crime must get any headway in Nigeria. The office of Nigeria’s National Security Adviser is too limited in terms of financing, personnel and spread to effectively coordinate counter-terrorism in Nigeria. Again, the US and Philippine models be fused together urgently, by the National Assembly enacting a law to that effect.

Sebastine Hon (SAN) is a Port Harcourt and Abuja-based Legal practitioner

Court restrains FCT Minister, two others over church’s property

Judge advises amicable settlement of case

J

USTICE Gabriel Kolawole of the Fed eral High Court, Abuja has advised par ties in a suit instituted against the Oil and Gas Free Trade Zone Authority, (OGFTZA), by its Abuja branch Manager, Funmilayo Omosule to explore out-ofcourt settlement.

At the resumed hearing of the case Justice Kolawole observed that issues raised in the suit could be resolved amicably by parties with the parties’ commitment. He adjourned to June 16 for report of settlement.

Omosule sued OGFTZA, a parastatal under the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investments, and its chairman for alleged victimisation, denial of fair hearing and unlawful suspension without pay. He is seeking among others, N100 million damages for unlawful suspension and an order declaring that his suspension was a breach of his right to fair hearing.

Omosule averred that his trouble started in 2011, when he uncovered fraud in the company’s Abuja office and informed the Managing Director (MD), who promised to take prompt action.

He said rather than allow the MD look into the fraud related issues he raised, those who were uncomfortable with his position, connived with the company’s leadership to raise a spurious allegation of certificate forgery against him.

“On December 2010, the organisation’s board wrote to staff to present their certificates for verification, and accordingly, my credentials were verified.

“Surprisingly in April 2011, when action was to be taken on the verification done, instead of the management to present my name - Funmilayo David Omosule, for upgrade, a distorted name, Oluwafunmilayo O. Funmi was sent to the board as a candidate, who is using forged credentials to work. Based on that allegation, a letter addressed to Oluwafunmilayo O. Funmi was sent to me

in a special way. This is not the best way to go; and I will cite a few examples from other democarcies.

The US Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Act of 2004, which is the most comprehensive single statute book the world over on checkmating terrorism, was the long, painstaking work of the US Congress, following the 9/11 terrorist assault on the USA. It has, in Section 102(a), established the office of the Director of National Intelligence and has gone on to establish other offices and centres that have so far performed the wonders that have kept terrorists at bay in America since 1991! The Act has, for instance, established the National Counterterrorism Center (Section 1021 thereof); the National Counter Proliferation Center (Section 1022 thereof) and National Intelligence Centers all over the USA (Section 119B thereof).

Another important part of this gargantuan legislation is the establishment, under Section 101A, of the Joint Intelligence Community Council. The Director of National Intelligence is the chairman of this council, while its members are the Secretary of State, the Secretary of Treasury, the Secretary of Defense (equivalent of Nigeria’s Defence Minister), the Attorney-General, the Secretary of Energy, the Secretary of Homeland Security and “such other officers of the United States Government as the President may designate from time to time.” The main function of this council is to “assist the Director of National Intelligence in developing and implementing a joint, unified national intelligence effort to protect national security.”

Similar legislation, though not as elaborate as the US Intelligence Reform Act of 2004, exists in the Philippines. Thus, the Philippine Human Security Act of 2007 has created the Anti-Terrorism Council, made up of an Executive Secretary as Chairman, the Secretary of Justice, the Secretary of Foreign Affairs, the Secretary of National Defence (equivalent of Nigeria’s Defence Minister), the Secretary of Interior and Local Government; the Secretary of Finance and the National Security Advisor. This Council is charged with the responsibility of undertaking “the proper and effective implementation of the anti-terrorism policy of the country.”

Finally, by the provisions of Section 53 of the Act, the National Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Immigration, Armed Forces of

A

•CJN, Justice Aloma Mukhtar

purportedly suspending me for using forged certificates to work without them hearing from me.

“All efforts to bring the true position to the knowledge of the management did not work.

As at today, the management is yet to pay me for three years, since they placed me on suspension. It is against the public service rules for an organistion to withhold staff salary when on suspension for misconduct. But in my case, there is no misconduct. A lie was told against me and yet the management decided to hold on to my salary for about three years now,” Omosule said.

Racheal Osibu of the firm of Paul Erokoro & Co said in a counter affidavit that Omsosule was suspended pending his compliance with directive to produce/submit his original certificates, which he has allegedly failed to do.

Osibu, who said she got her information from OGFTZA’s Company’s Secretary, Abdul-wasiu Sule, further stated that under the company’s rules, disobedience is a serious misconduct punishable at the discretion of the company’s board of directors.

CHURCH, God’s Kingdom Society (GKS), has got the leave of an Abuja High Court stopping the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister from dispossessing it of its land.

The court restrained the minister and others from proceeding with their alleged plan to take over the church land.

Last week, Justice Charles Agbaza of the court granted an order of interlocutory injunction restraining the minister and those sued with him, from interfering with a parcel of land occupied by the church, at the Dakibiyu District of Abuja.

Others are the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) and the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA).

Justice Agbaza restrained the defendants from revoking and/or re-allocating to another person or persons the title and/or right of occupancy being enjoyed by the plaintiff over the said land, covering an area of 6500 square metres being at plot 316 HDC within Dakibiyu (B10) District of Abuja. The judge also granted an order suspending all actions, proceedings and processes relating to the revocation of the parcel of land. The orders will subsist pending the determination of the substantive suit. Hearing the main suit comes up on May 5.

The church sued the Minister and others, challenging “the violent action” of some persons, later identified as agents of the FCTA and FCDA, who on January 24, allegedly stormed the church with a bulldozer, claiming ownership of the land. They demolished the walls and temporary place of worship erected by the church.

The plaintiff said the officials of FCTA and FCDA also instructed the church to vacate the property and relocate, failing which they will demolish all that was left, without

Stories by Eric Ikhilae, Abuja

further notice and plea.

The plaintiffs, in their statement of claim, stated that the land was allocated to the church by the FCTA and that it is covered by an Offer of Terms of Grant/Conveyance of Approval dated June 25, 2003 as well as Survery Plan/Map with Right of Occupancy bearing the same date.

They said at no time did the defendants revoke the plaintiff’s title to the property and that the purported revocation/and/or reallocation of the parcel of land was illegal, null and void and ought to be set aside.

The plaintiffs also stated that the church had paid ground rents on the land worth N1,041, 584 from 2004 -2009 and had over the years expended over N15 million in securing the land and erecting a perimetre fence and temporary structures on it pending the approval of its building plan by relevant agences of the defendants.

The plaintiffs added that while efforts were on to pay the required fee for issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy, the church submitted her building plans and drawings of the land at the Department of Development Control of the FCT. They are, among others, praying the court for an order of perpetual injunction restraining the defendants from disturbing and trespassing on the land, and an order directing the FCT Minister, the FCDA and others to consider and grant accelerated approval to all submissions for building permit and issue the C of O on the land to the plaintiffs. land was duly allocated to the church; that it was entitled to the ownership of the land and that the defendants’ purported revocation of its right to the land is illegal.

The church is claiming N15m in damages against the defendants.

28

THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 2014

NATION BOOK REVIEW

Rule of Law in financial sector regulation

T

HE theme: ‘Corporate Governance and Responsibility’ brings to mind an idea of the corporate world, its make-up, how it is run, laws governing its operations, the key players and stakeholders. It also talks about corporate’s responsibilities to its members, share-holders, host communities, host countries and how these responsibilities are carried out; whether they are actually carried out and who suffers in the event of a default on the part of any corporate institution to comply with governance policies and carry out its responsibilities.

In Nigeria, there is no gainsaying the fact that there has been a lot of ‘corporate recklessness’ and disregard on the part of industries, companies and business outfits and these have reflected poorly on the Nigerian economy and business sector.

The Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies (NIALS), in keeping with its mandate, has in this book, drawn attention to various aspects of the corporate world and successfully compiled a wholesome look at the corporate/business sector as regards Corporate Governance and Responsibility, identified areas that need to be addressed and proffered solutions which can be implemented.

Chapter 1: Good Governance, Transparency and Regulatory Issues in Financial Sector Development and Stability written by Prof.

Bolaji Owasanoye gives concise and clear definitions of concepts such as Good governance, Financial Services Sector, Regulation and Development; Transparency and Accountability; and so on.

The writer also does a brief exposé on the Rule of Law in Financial sector regulation, the role of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) as the apex regulatory body and various steps taken and achievements recorded by the CBN in carrying out its regulatory functions.

In this chapter, the attention of the reader is drawn to the recent economic crises which many countries including Nigeria are still trapped under and the need for internal regulations which must be adhered to. The chapter concludes with recommendations geared towards enhancing transparency, accountability and collaboration among regulators, supervisors and accounting standard setters.

Chapter 2: Corporate Social Responsibility

by Adejoke Adediran This chapter explains the concept of Corporate Social Responsibility(CSR). It identifies the marked absence of a law that specifically governs CSR in Nigeria. The writer however, outlines various legislations and regulations in Nigeria that have sections addressing corporate social responsibility such as the Companies and Allied Matters Act, Security and Exchange Commission (SEC), code of corporate governance for public companies in Nigeria, oil pipelines act, petroleum drilling and production regulations, factories act, civil aviation act, the criminal code act, and so on.

The writer also identifies the various aspects of responsibilities to be carried out by companies such as economic, environmental, and social. The chapter identifies challenges with implementing laws governing CSR and concludes with recommendations to ensure compliance with laws and regulations.

Chapter 3: Building Intellectual Property Assets for the Nigerian Company: An Overview of Emergent Trends in Corporate Management by Prof. Adebambo Adewopo The writer gives a brief overview of the role and purposes of intellectual property assets in corporate management globally and in other jurisdictions, with a view to drawing attention to the role in the emerging corporate Nigeria, draws a comparison between the established intellectual property assets in other climes and jurisdictions, discusses the importance and benefits of intellectual property value assets and recommends its creation and deployment in various business outfits in Nigeria.

Chapter 4: Corporate Governance of Banking Institutions in Nigeria by Nkechiwu Azinge In this chapter, the writer discusses the corporate governance of banking institutions as carried out by constituted boards in Nigeria.

There is also a brief historical outline of the recent financial and economic crises/ recession, which affected the economies and financial institutions of other countries as well as the economic effects in Nigeria. The writer suggests a definition of corporate governance, discusses the composition of the Board of Directors and the functions and powers of the board. There is also an incisive insight into the financial crises faced in the banking sector and the measures taken by the Central Bank

BOOK REVIEW Name of Book: Corporate Governance and Responsibility 2014 No of chapters: 15 Author: Prof. Epiphany Azinge Publishers: Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal studies Book Reviewer: MBAJIORGU KENECHUKWU of Nigeria (CBN) to arrest the situation. The CBN also introduced a tenure limit for banks’ chief executives’ as a measure of restricting life-time entrenchment of directors to fixed terms. The chapter in conclusion recommends the further strengthening of regulatory bodies and the need for transparency within the financial institutions.

Chapter 5: The Corporate Responsibility to Respect Human Rights by Jake Okechukwu Effoduh The chapter in view rehashes corporate social responsibility superficially and dwells mainly on the human rights perspective. In the Nigerian clime, the writer posits that due to the paucity of effective legislations and implementation of same as regards venting complaints against companies about human rights abuse, many of such issues remain mere allegations by citizens and not much is done.

The writer, therefore, enjoins key state actors and stake-holders especially the Nigerian government, to adopt the UN Guiding principles on Human Rights and Business and go further to domesticate them as laws so that they are binding on relevant parties, whether corporate or personal.

Chapter 6: Mergers and Acquisitions: Accelerating Development or Creating Global Monopolies by Laura Ani. This chapter looks at the role of competition law in a globalised world and current trends in major mergers, foreign direct investment, concentrated market structures and the risk of global monopolies, the likely competitive effects and finally how to make globalisation work for all.

The writer gives an insight into the trend of mergers and acquisitions, the various types of mergers, the reasons behind some notable mergers and the effects of this trend, whether it leads to the growth of the economy or a monopoly of affected economies as well as effects on the consumers.

He also examines the merger of banks in Nigeria as a result of the directive by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to consolidate funds. The writer is of the opinion that “mega mergers can lead to the concentration of wealth and economic power and create imbalances in economic growth. It is also likely to place political power in the hands of a few corporations. Overall, this can seriously undermine democratic institutions and undermine economic policy making” and further recommend adequate competition policy measures in place which can serve as preventive rather than curative measures.

According to him, for healthy competition law to exist in Nigeria there is a need to do a local assessment and adequate consultation with successful and advanced regimes.

Chapter 7: Statutory Regulation of Telecommunications in Nigeria by Janet M Asagh.

In this chapter, the writer analyses the regulation of telecommunications and the communications industry in Nigeria, from the policy and statutory era; the regulatory principles that have shaped telecommunications in Nigeria, to the present trends and future of telecommunications regulation in Nigeria. There is a chronological discourse of legislations in Nigeria, showing subsequent legal regimes from the Wireless Technology Act of 1966 till date.

Chapter 8: Public Private Partnership, A Tool for Sustainable Development and Corporate Responsibility by Aina Oyetunde.

In this paper, the writer attempts to define the concept of Public Private Partnership (PPP), explore the dynamics for a successful PPP, highlight successful cases of PPP, examine the legal framework for PPP in Nigeria, highlight the challenges that impede the progress of PPP projects and the need for an effective legal framework to govern these partnerships.

The chapter also identifies important elements for a successful PPP and the legal re-

gime/framework governing PPP in Nigeria.

Chapter 9: Corporate taxation and Accountability by Dr Francisca Nlerum.

This paper discusses the nature and importance of taxation generally and specifically covers corporate taxation, its concept, nature, scope, policies and the need for accountability. The writer also identifies major challenges towards corporate taxation such as inefficient tax policy & administration, longterm aid and natural resources revenue dependency, prevalent tax avoidance, improperly administered incentives, high tax rate, lack of revenue records and improper use of taxation revenue.

There is a coherent outline of corporate taxation in Nigeria and commendable use of case law in this discourse. Legislations guiding corporate taxation in Nigeria are also outlined and discussed in this chapter. Here, the writer also analyses problems which plague the taxation system in Nigeria and makes recommendations to cure the malaise.

Chapter 10: Cyber Crimes and Cyber Securities by Dr Fatima Waziri.

The author gives an in-depth analysis of the cyber world, its prospects and activities therein and discusses cyber crimes and securities. The writer fairly exposes the cyberworld and workings of the internet to the reader and outlines various activities carried out on the internet, which is referred to as cyber crimes such as-phishing, cyber stalking, hacking, and so on.

In this chapter, various categories of cyber crimes are discussed and the reader educated on what each category entails. The concept of cyber security has evolved based on the need to make the internet safe and the writer discusses this in great detail. The weaknesses and challenges of effective cyber security in Nigeria are also identified in this chapter.

The writer concludes by identifying the complex nature of the internet, acknowledging the disputes and issues that arise in the course of its operation and advocating recommendations that can effectively address these.

Chapter 11: International Investment Agreements (IIAs) and Arbitration by Prof Paul Idornigie This chapter gives a historical background of International Investment Agreements (IIAs), gives and analyses various definitions of IIAs, outlines the various types of IIAs such as Bilateral Investment Treaties, International Tax Agreements and Preferential Trade and Investment Agreements Regional Investment Treaties; and discusses the multilateral framework on investments as well as disputes that arise in the operation of treaties/ IIAs. The writer also delves into the aspect of Alternate Dispute Resolution (ADR) particularly Arbitration.

Chapter 12: Financial Crimes and Corporate Insolvency by Nathaniel A Inegbedion The writer defines the terms “Financial Crimes” and “Corporate Insolvency” then proceeds to draw the reader’s attention to the inexorable connection between these terms and corporate governance in that failure in or lack of the latter will effectively result in “Corporate Insolvency” as a result of “Financial Crimes”.

Having defined the above terms, he goes further to identify general legislations, which deal with crimes generally such as the Criminal Code Act and the Penal Code Act. He then discusses more specific legislations such as: The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission Act, the Companies and Allied Matters Act, the Money Laundering (Prohibitions) Act, and so on.

The chapter averts the mind of the reader to case-study scenarios, which took place in Nigeria, and concludes on the premise that financial crimes occasioning corporate insolvency may be minimised by better vigilance by the regulators of the sector and a more rigorous implementation of the relevant laws discussed.

Chapter 13: Customer Due Diligence in the Financial Services Industry by Enuma U Muoneke The chapter relates to the need for careful and methodical investigation of persons or a business before any financial commitment is made in order to uncover information that may affect the outcome of transactions. The writer outlines various types of risks discoverable upon due diligence and discusses international standards for customers’ due

‘There is a chronological discourse of legislations in Nigeria, showing subsequent legal regimes from the Wireless Technology Act of 1966 till date’

diligence. Modes through which recommended customers’ due diligence measures outlined by the writer can be applied have also been identified in this chapter.

Programmes adopted by the Nigerian government on customers’ due diligence were discussed in detail in this chapter and conclusions are drawn for steps to be taken to address lack of sufficient capacity of regulatory and supervisory authorities and the notoriously slow justice system.

Chapter 14: Corporate Governance and Responsibility: The Powers, Duties and Responsibilities of Directors of Corporate Bodies by Chukwuemeka Castro Nwabuzor The chapter dwells on company management and the duties, powers and responsibilities of directors and the Board of Directors, who are responsible for the day-to-day running and management of companies and corporate institutions. It concludes with the need to maintain optimal corporate governance practices, which is dependent on the way and manner in which directors and the board of directors carry out their functions.

Chapter 15: Financing of Foreign Investment by Kalu Kingsley Anele The writer, in this chapter, examines foreign investments and their impacts on the economy. The chapter achieves this from the existing legal regime and policy thrust to determine the impact it has on the Nigerian infrastructural and economic development.

It also identifies sources of foreign investment financing and challenges in achieving economic development despite enormous foreign investment in the country. The paper is concluded by suggestions to bring economic development to Nigeria such as infrastructural development, dependable legal regime and favourable policies not frequently changed.

Comments The Book: Corporate Governance and Responsibility is done in a Deep Green and Light Green soft cover jacket with its title boldly written in White prints. The 480-page book is divided into Fifteen (15) chapters written by nominated contributors. It is edited by Professor Epiphany Azinge (SAN), Director-General of the Institute, with subeditors such as Osatohanmwen Eruaga (Mrs) and Jake Okechukwu Effoduh, both Research fellows of the Institute.

This book uses a narrative style, which embodies the analytical reasoning and research carried out by the various contributors. It identifies the principle of corporate governance and responsibility and draws comparative analyses of other more commercially developed climes and Nigeria, highlighting lacunas and problems with the corporate and business sectors in Nigeria as well as proffers viable solutions and remedies.

Observations There were a number of typographical errors observed and in some cases, veering off from what allotted topics suggest.

Recommendations This publication is an exposé of the corporate world; both real and virtual therefore, people from almost all walks of life can identify with various aspects of this book and be enlightened. It is a must-read especially for those curious about and interested in the workings of the corporate world, legal practitioners and scholars.

Newspaper of the Year

AN 8-PAGE PULLOUT ON NORTHERN STATES TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 2014

PAGE 29

‘Foreigners behind Fulani/ Tiv clashes’

•PAGE 30

•

Joy, pain of hosting a refinery F

IRMS and their host communities are not always the best of friends. But at Rido community, hosts of the Kaduna Refining and Petrochemical Company (KRPC), residents and the refinery workers are not at daggers drawn, either.

True, the poverty level in the community is quite high, but the farming community has no doubt benefitted from the firm, even though sometimes it also has some grievances.

Youths of the community and others in the operational area of the refinery are currently benefiting from oil firm’s youth empowerment programme, but the residents have also lived with pollution from the activities of the refinery.

An executive director of the company, Idi Mukthar told The Nation that what the company flares is not gas, but carbon which is not harmful to the human system. He said that the company is aware of the community’s complaint and is working round the clock to address it.

He pointed out that the black smoke coming out from the refinery is the result of a breakdown of one of the compressors which has been identified and is being corrected by the company. He said further that the company constantly mobilises a team of medical experts, officials of the Safety and Public Affairs Department of the company to enlighten the host community on their operations, and what to expect.

He said: “We have sunk a borehole for them because we are aware that often, the carbon settles on the water and that is not good for them.

So, we gave them a borehole so that they only have to get water when they need to use water and don’t have to store water from the stream.

From Tony Akowe, Kaduna

However, we have contracted someone to clean up the stream. At the moment, we have people working round the clock to clean up the carbon”.

Even though members of Rido are quick to point at some of the benefits they now enjoy from the company.

Some of their youths have been beneficiaries of the Youth Empowerment scheme initiated by the immediate past Managing Director of the company, Bolanle Ayodele. Some other things which the company has provided to the community include a bore hole, blocks of classrooms and a health centre among others, they are not happy with the level of pollution they have to grapple with daily. Mukthar said that the borehole, classroom and health centre is not the only intervention of the company in the community. He disclosed that at every stage, the company regularly carry out immunization in the communities. He said “every time we immunize our staff, we do the same thing for the community. In fact, the immunisation is not

limited to children alone. At every stage, we cover about 5000 people in the host communities. We have also provided electrification for some of the communities”.

The Manager Public Affairs of the company, Abdullahi Idris also told The Nation that the company has a standing community relations committee made up of about 11 district heads and some management team from the company. According to him, the committee meets regularly to articulate the needs of the communities which are prioritised in line with the budget of the company.

“When we meet, they will come with their needs and we discuss them and see what can fit into our budget and we tell them. This has worked very well”, he said.

In spite of that, the community is worried about the double flame from the company anytime they are in production. Some members of the community spoken to by The Nation admit that the company has done so much for them, but claimed that the gas emitted from the refinery on a daily basis is polluting their environ-

‘Youths of the community and others in the operational area of the refinery are currently benefiting from oil firm’s youth empowerment programme, but the residents have also lived with pollution from the activities of the refinery’

ment and doing a lot of harm to their livestock, farmlands and water bodies. Iliyasu Elijah, a resident of the community told The Nation that their farmland has been subjected to all manner of chemicals from the refinery.

He said: “This is where we were born but our farmlands are now suffering. We can’t even drink water from our rivers anymore”.

Michael Waziri, another resident of the community corroborated Elijah’s position, saying, “we the poor are tired of complaining but honestly it’s not funny at all. It is not in doubt that have provided a few amenities for us here, but that is not enough compared to what they are subjecting us to daily.

Take a good look at this community and tell me if this is what we deserve.

You can see poverty written all over the place. However, we hope that with the construction of the Eastern byepass, the government will remember us and compel the refinery to do something better for us”.

Another resident, Luka Makama also spoke in similar vein. According to Makama, the community has lost several children to pollution in the past and are not ready to loss more.

He said, “we have lost several children in this community to pollution.

The last time they gave each household 3 packs of milk. If they are to be trusted, they should be giving us milk every month”.

On her part, Jumai Jatau said that “getting food from our farms now is a difficult thing, not to talk of drinking water. Everybody in this community now has catarrh due to the black •Continued on page 30

Lawmaker enlivens constituents •PAGE 30

City agog for oral health •PAGE 33

FCT tackles poor medical waste management •PAGE 36

THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 2014

30

THE NORTH REPORT Director-General, National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Dr. Paul Orhii, on a visit, distributed relief materials to internally-displaced persons in various camps in Benue State. He spoke with journalists about the security challenges in the country, particularly in Benue State, saying, among other things, why he thinks foreigners are behind the clashes between farmers and herdsmen. UJA EMMANUEL was there for The Nation. Excerpts:

‘Foreigners behind Fulani/ Tiv clashes’

W

HAT are your thoughts about the security challenges in the country, particularly the sustained attacks on farmers in Benue State?

Nigeria is undergoing very serious security challenges. These were the kind of challenges that we never anticipated that would happen in our part of the world. If you heard about it you thought that it was something for different regions of this world. Unfortunately the reality now is that most parts of the country are undergoing these security challenges. Benue State is not alone; it’s the general situation across the country. States like Zamfara, Borno, so many other states and then particularly Benue State, now are facing very serious security challenges. Initially we thought that it was a dispute between Fulani herdsmen and Tiv farmers but from what we’ve seen so far I think this has gone beyond these common Fulani herdsmen.

We’ve lived with the Fulani herdsmen; as a child we’ve grown up with them, we joked together, and were playmates. In fact, most often when I see a Fulani person I never thought he would ever be my enemy because we just looked at them as friends and playmates. Then suddenly you see that the Fulani herdsmen cannot live side by side with the Tiv man; I don’t believe it’s the Fulani herdsmen that we’ve known. The herdsmen that we know carry sticks, at most a dane gun. For this kind of sophistication I don’t think that a true Fulani herdsman has the time to go and train how to shoot like these people, the kind of expertise that they display and the kind of sophisticated weapons that we see them with. I believe that this is aggression from outside the country. These people are coming from somewhere outside the country to come and attack. We have to sit down with our Fulani colleagues and think very carefully to find out where these attacks are coming from. I don’t believe these are common herdsmen. But they are

causing very serious security challenges with potential danger that the farmers cannot go to farm. I heard that as far away as Delta, Kogi and so many other states, farmers cannot go to the farm any longer because they are afraid that they would be attacked and so there will be hunger in a few years to come because people are not planting their crops. Apart from that whole villages have been sacked and people are living in very difficult conditions, some are dying under very difficult conditions. But I believe that Nigeria will overcome these security challenges because there is a lot of work going on, a lot of discussions and negotiations and I believe that very soon a solution would be found. I advise our people to be very circumspect about what they say, the kind of things that they say. They should refrain from making inflammatory statements because like I said there is a lot of work being done to find a lasting solution to this situation. Sometimes you will be complicating the work of the leadership or the solutions they are trying to find by making unguarded statements or sometimes taking the law into your own hands. I think we should leave the security agencies; many of them have been dispatched already to Benue State so leave their job to them, do not complicate their jobs for them. I also want to tell our people that if the security agencies find you causing problems, as far as they are concerned any person causing problem is the enemy so they do not distinguish between people who have come to attack and the people who are being attacked. If they see you on the attack they will deal with you so you have to be very careful. Sometimes you have your right but if you mismanage how you convey your rights or you react to what has happened you become the aggressor. Our people have to be very careful. Do not just lynch anybody on the street because he looks different. Do not attack

•Orhii

‘Initially we thought that it was a dispute between Fulani herdsmen and Tiv farmers but from what we’ve seen so far I think this has gone beyond these common Fulani herdsmen’ anybody or make statements that will cause panic or may cause people to feel that they are being attacked.

There are claims that chemical weapons are being used in these attacks; can NAFDAC investigate these claims?

I have heard about these claims; in fact from the symptoms that they

•Continued on page 32

Lawmaker enlivens

T

•Some of the sewing machines for distribution

described to me it would appear that chemical weapons are being used. I have seen some of the canisters that we have at our disposal; they’ve shown them to me. These people went and cut this usual tear gas, poured the chemical inside and then sealed it up. I have seen them first hand. But NAFDAC does not have the capacity right now to verify

that. It has to be done in a specialized laboratory for testing of these sophisticated chemical weapons that are used. But from the description of some people who have died from the attacks I believe that chemical weapons are being used on our people. From some of the symptoms that doctors have described, doctors who have attended to these victims.

Why did you procure relief materials for the displaced people and what kind of things did you bring for them?

Generally when you see people suffering from lack of basic things, you are concerned. Because of my position I have a lot of friends in different parts of Nigeria, so these items, none of them was procured by me personally, it was not my funds. Friends called me offering to see how they could be of help. That is why many of these donations have come. Friesland brought 6,000 cartons of their milk juice. They called themselves and volunteered to donate these things because they saw the news in the media and they immediately contacted me. They knew that my people were under this type of difficult condition so they offered to give some of these things. Companies like Emzor brought some medicines and antimalaria drugs and some of them vitamins for people who are malnourished. Different companies brought some things here and there that is why I have these items that I have here. Drinks, biscuits, Beloxi a company from Lagos called and donated biscuits, so many other companies called to donate some items that I brought here.

What did you do in your first term as well as your vision for the second term?

I think we did a lot in the first term; we brought a lot of innovations to so many things. When I came to NAFDAC in 2009 I told Nigerians that I would sustain all the gains that had been made at NAFDAC before I came and then take the agency’s operations to the next level, to international standards that are obtainable in the most advanced countries. I think that is exactly what we did. First and foremost we consolidated on all the gains both infrastructure-wise, there is no abandoned project in NAFDAC to begin with, all the projects that my predecessors started we’ve completed them. We also sustained the war against counterfeit medicines and then expanded that war. By the time I came to NAFDAC the incidence of counter-

HE representative of Pankshin/Kanke/Kanam Federal Constituency at the House of Representatives, Hon. Emmanuel Goar has launched a programme aimed at reducing the rate of poverty in the three local government areas that make up the constituency.

Hon. Goar noted that the level of poverty at the grassroots requires a purposeful programme of intervention by individuals, political office holders, governments, non-governmental organisations as well as corporate entities. He insisted that such intervention does not require millions of Naira to resolve, adding that as little as N20 can save a life in the rural areas.

The most interesting aspect of Hon. Goar’s poverty alleviation programme was the presentation of 20 wheelchairs to people with physi-

From Yusufu Aminu Idegu, Jos

cal disability. They expressed their gratitude to the lawmaker for his benevolence.

One of the beneficiaries of the wheelchairs, Martha John, said: “I was born like every other human being, but I grew up to realise I had no legs.

I have been crawling since I was born.

But today, our representative has given me this instrument to facilitate my movement from one point to the other, no more crawling like snake. I am very much grateful to him.”

Aside the wheelchairs, the lawmaker also provided 100 irrigation water pumps for dry season farmers.

Hon. Goar said: “I have developed 175,000 hectares of land for agricultural farming which has the potential to generate 870,000 metric tons of grains and vegetables.

“Today, as I present these irriga-

tion pumps, many youths will be encouraged to take to farming and this will reduce the rate of unemployment in my constituency. The beneficiaries of the irrigation pumps will also become employers of labour in the agricultural sector.”

Other empowerment items which Hon. Goar presented to some beneficiaries during the programme held at Trinity Missionary College, Pankshin were 200 sewing machines, 150 grinding machines and 20 motorcycles.

Hon Goar said: “As a representative of my people, I’m here to present to them some items as a way of kickstarting the poverty alleviation programme. I will mobilise other stakeholders to help my people. This is because I alone cannot solve the challenges of poverty. It requires combined efforts of governments, individuals, private companies and non-

THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 2014

31

THE NORTH REPORT

Regulating outdoor advertising in Kwara

•The relief materials.

•Continued from page 31 feit medicines had been reduced in 2005 to about 16.7 per cent. Unfortunately the incidence of counterfeit anti-malaria drugs had increased. In 2008 we had more than 60 per cent of anti-malaria drugs circulating in Nigeria were either fake or substandard so we had to reduce those indices. We set to work, we increased public awareness campaign. You know that before I came the public awareness campaign was different. NAFDAC was popular but when I came I refined the public awareness campaign to make it more educative.

We created a television program, what we call ‘NAFDAC and your health’ to give the masses informa-

‘Foreigners behind Fulani/ Tiv clashes’ tion about the products, more details about our regulatory activities, the products that we regulate so that the masses can be part of what we’re doing at NAFDAC and so that they can define a stake for themselves so that they will also be able to help us.

It has turned out to be very successful. But realizing that not everybody has access to television we also created what we call the NAFDAC number. It’s on the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria, FRCN, and so you can hear our messages even in very remote corners of the country. Herdsmen can hear our messages; farmers can hear our messages in very distant corners of the country. They can call in and report incidences of fake products, that was another addition.

We increased collaboration with all

other security agencies in Nigeria, the Nigeria Customs Service, the Nigeria Police, the Nigeria Immigration and all other security agencies, we partnered with them more.

At the international level we also increased our visibility. I became the Vice Chairman of the International Medical Products Anti-Counterfeiting Taskforce, IMPACT in Geneva. When IMPACT was scrapped and the first membership mechanism under the World Health Organization, what we call the SSFFSC that is the Spurious SubStandard Falsified False-labeled Counterfeit Medical Products Taskforce was created in Geneva made up of 193 countries I became the first chairman and currently I’m still the first chairman under the

Plateau to export potatoes

PLATEAU is not just about temperate climate and breathtaking rocks.

It boats potentially money-spinning solid minerals. Its potatoes are a delicacy. But the state is seeing more in the legumes than merely something to chew; it wants to export them and make money.

Plateau produces plenty potatoes and other crops, thanks to its rich soil and friendly weather.

Such vegetable crops as Irish potatoes, sweet potatoes, tomatoes, lettuce, spinach, apples and strawberries, among others, are easily produced in the state. Farmers on the Plateau harvest the crop three times a year because it grows well in both dry and wet seasons.

The Plateau Irish potato serves a dual purpose; it is mainly used as food, and it is also used for its medicinal value. As food, people cook it like yam and consume it; others fry it into chips. Those who want its medicinal value wash it and eat it

•Potatoes from Jos From Yusufu Aminu Idegu, Jos

raw.

However, the state never gets the real value for this essential crop because of its perishable nature.

Soccour has come the way of the

s constituents governmental organisations.

“We need concerted efforts to tackle poverty through job creation and empowerment schemes because they will help in minimising youths’ restiveness in the state and the entire country.”

While presenting the items to beneficiaries, Hon Goar said: “I have gone beyond legislative function to ensure that my constituents also benefit from my quality representation.

The presentation of these work tools today aims at reducing poverty, increasing income and employment and improving the living standard of our people.

“Many of the beneficiaries of this little gesture are youths of my constituency. I believe that when youths are provided with means of livelihood that secures their economic independence, they will be less restive and less vulnerable

since they have something doing. I intend to instil working culture in our youths which will accelerate Nigeria’s accomplishment of MDGs by 2015.

“I will work hard to free our youths from abject and dehumanising conditions occasioned by poverty. If we must eradicate poverty by 2015, wellmeaning individuals, private companies and NGOs must join hands with government and lawmaking to free our people from want through deliberate empowerment programmes.”

Hon. Goar pledged to give the people quality representation, adding that more benefits of democracy will be attracted to Pankshin, Kanam and Kanke constituency in the 2014 appropriation Bills when signed into law.

•Continued on page 32

farmers.

An international organisation, GIZ will now provide the technology that will enhance cultivation of the crop. It will aslo provide the technology for preservation, processing and packaging of the product for export. This is money for all concerned.

T

From Adekunle Jimoh, Ilorin

HE Kwara State Signage and Advertisement Agency (KWASSA) is out to ensure the aesthetics and beauty of Ilorin, the Kwara State capital. The agency is also determined to make money for the state government.

The law establishing the agency which came into existence in 2010 was last year amended to align with the current global trends and standard practices.

The law also prescribes that political parties, corporate bodies , individuals and religious organisations having outdoor structures to register with the agency.

Accordingly, the agency has resolved to bare its fangs on all structures including billboards, banners and pasting of posters illegally mounted or pasted by political parties, body corporate and religious bodies in the state. In fact, all such structures are now to pay a certain fee.

Also, the use of the Flyover bridge panels in the Post Office area of Ilorin, the state capital for pasting of banners will attract a sum of N6 million per annum.

The state Attorney-General and Justice Commissioner, Kamaldeen Ajibade said KWASSA law regulates outdoor structures for the display of signage, hoarding and advertisement in the state.

Ajibade said it is mandatory for any person or body corporate to register and obtain permit from the agency before erecting, constructing, enlarging or structurally modifying any outdoor structure.

He urged all affected persons, groups, political parties; corporate entities and religious organisation in the state to remove all such structures with contravene this law.

He said: “It has come to the attention of the state government that across the state there are many outdoor advertisement and signs without compliance with the provisions of the extant law on same, which is, KWASSA law.

“Under the law, any corporate entity that owns outdoor structures must of necessity register same with the agency. The law empowers the agency to enter into any property or premises for the purposes of carrying out inspection necessary for the proper administration of the law.

“Equally, owners and operators of existing outdoor structures are required to regularise their signage and advertisement structures with the agency and if not done within a period of one month after enactment of this law, the agency shall with or without notice as it deems fit, direct the removal of same at the expense of the owner.

“It is important to stress here that any person who violates any of the provisions of the signage and advertisement law or does anything in order to stultify the application of the law or continue to be in breach of the law by displaying or permitting the display of unauthorised outdoor structures shall be guilty of an offence and liable to punishment (s) and sanctions provided under the law.

“These include terms of imprisonment or fine or both. And of course, include demolition of the offensive structure (s) at the defaulter’s expenses.”

The General Manager of KWASSA, Hammed Olufadi, remarked that: “A billboard for political party costs N1 million per year. Flying a banner costs N40,000 per week. The aim is to discourage unnecessary flying of banners. If you want to use ultra wave or you want to have your campaigns at the airport that is a specialised area, the amount payable is N2million for the purchase sheet. If you want maximum exposure you pay maximally also.

“If you want to use our bridge panels you will need to pay N6million because we don’t want the panels to get dirty. If you want to even paste posters you are expected to come to us, we ask you the number of posters you intend to paste and we tell you where to paste them at a fee. Then you sign statement of responsibility with us irrespective of the political party.

You pay before you expose your posters and then you deposit a penalty with us; 10 days after if the posters are not removed, we will do and the money deposited with us becomes that of the government.

“So we have prices for normal zones and prices for specialised zones for different sizes of billboards and banners. If it is not properly regulated very soon people will start pasting posters on government house walls.

Most of the posters are pasted at night. But we are making it clear now that we will not go after those pasting the posters, but those that own the posters.”

Curiously, the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state has picked holes in the law, noting that giving teeth to the law this time around is a ploy against it.

•Managing-Director, Afrinvest West Africa Limited, Mr. Ike Chioke; Director-General, Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), Mr. Oscar Onyeama; Kogi State Governor Capt. Idris Wada and Majority Leader, Kogi State House of Assembly, Hon. Yakubu Yinusa at the Kogi State Bond Listing Forum on the floor of the NSE in Lagos

32

THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 2014

THE NORTH REPORT

Joy, pain of hosting a refinery •Continued on page 30 emission”.

However, Bature Bidam is more militant in his response, saying, “Very soon we will block the roads and nobody will be allowed access into the refinery again until the issue of pollution is addressed”.

Similarly, Abubakar Shehu who said he lives close to the refinery fence said that the gas being flared daily has saturated the area and is causing serious health problems to them.

“People who are working there are big men and women driving jeeps and others expensive cars. But do they want us living in our poor ancestral homes to die? We allow government to establish the refinery here and not to send us out of this place. Our children are not working there except the Rido community chief who has betrayed us and sold us out to Kaduna refinery and so he can’t even defend us. The emission of the carbon dioxide is a serious disaster on us. In the morning and evening the gas always descends on the whole environment, making it difficult for us to breathe, it is also the same thing in the evening.

And it has a very powerful unbearable odour. If we are eating, it is as if we are swallowing the substance along with the food.”

Another resident, Suleiman Joseph expressed fear that with the increasing level of awareness by the youths, they may not be able to hold on for too long without taking steps to speak out against the pollution. He

•Residents benefit from the refinery’s health programme

said, “the residents might not be able to bear it for long. We are calling on government and management of Kaduna Refining and Petrochemical Company to take immediate action to stop this flaring, because what we are inhaling in this place is poisonous and is capable of killing us. Some people in our area who rented houses have left but the landlords have no place to go”.

Some other members of the community told The Nation that credit must be given to the company for

making effort to give them a good life.

Some of them said that regularly, the company brings carton of milk to distributed to children in the community, adding that at the last exercise, about 700 cartons were given to them in addition to over 30,000 exercise books distributed quarterly to primary schools in the host communities. As at the time of this report, the company was making arrangement for another set of books to be distributed to the selected

schools.

A visit to the community revealed that apart from the gas emission from the refinery, Rido community, like many others have remained the most poorest within Kaduna metropolis and environs while the refinery makes billionaires of other people. The community can best be referred to as a slum suffering from the constant shadow of unrelenting noxious fumes. investigation however revealed

Lawmaker empowers constituents •Continued from page 31 “I will continue to give hope to the hopeless, strength to the weak and protection to the defenceless by growing the economy of the constituency through job creation, securing appointments, constructing rural roads and sinking boreholes.” He urged people suffering from different ailments to be available this month for free medical treatment.

He urged the newly sworn in chairmen of local government areas in the state to work towards the wellbeing of the people of the council areas irrespective of party affiliation.

He said: “You should shun divisive policies, hatred, ethnic distrust, reject violence, insist on justice and equity, insist on defending our people from those threatening our unity, pursue peace, fight poverty

•Grinding machines for distribution

not the poor, attack destitution and uphold democracy and development.”

The Senator Representing Plateau North Senatorial zone and Chairman of the occasion, Senator Gyang Pwajok described Goar as an embodiment of humility who has deployed his legislative ability to combat poverty in his constituency.

Senator Pwajok urged members of the constituency to support Hon. Goar.

He said the empowerment scheme

•Nde Joshua Dimlong (In Gown) presenting one of the wheel chairs to a beneficiary as Hon Goar (center) looks on

embark upon by Hon. Goar is a clear demonstration of his appreciation of the people’s mandate given to him.

He advised the beneficiaries to use the tools to liberate themselves from poverty.

The traditional ruler of the constituency, Ngolong Ngas, His Highness Nde Joshua Dimlong who presented the items to the beneficiaries said: “This gesture by our son is a

source of relief to me as the custodian of peace and security in Pankshin and Kanke local governments respectively. This is because there will be drastic reduction in youth restiveness. This empowerment scheme has offered direct jobs to about 500 youths who will, in turn, employ other youths. This is a better way to fight unemployment.”

FRSC to auction abandoned motorcycles From Adamu Suleiman, Sokoto

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HE Federal Road Safety Corps, Sokoto State Command has said that the 75 impounded and unclaimed motorcycles may soon be auctioned .This indication was given by the Sector Commander Dr Gummi in a statement he issued last week.

According to the statement, all motorcycles impounded in Sokoto and Isa and have stayed beyond six months in police custody will be auctioned after obtaining a forfeiture order from the court.

“The corps will apply to court for the order of forfeiture and auctioning of the said motorcycles. Only motorcycles impounded in it’s custody for a continuous period of more than six months will be auctioned”, the statement read in part.

Gummi, however, advised owners of such abandoned items to hasten up and claim them before the date.

•Beggars with talents at a public function in Abuja

that Nigeria is one of the few countries in the world that still flare its gas while other nations are making billions of dollars from it. In other words, the flaring of gas by oil companies in the country is not limited to the Kaduna Refining and Petrochemical Company along. It is believed to be more common in the Niger-Delta region where cities like Warri and Port Harcourt also experience the same hazards. It is believed that Nigeria is flaring between 1.3 and 1.4 billion cubic feet of gas daily, second only to Russia which flared three times the size of what Nigeria burns.

Environmental experts believe that the gas flaring by Nigeria oil companies is doing so much damage to the environment, pointing out that the damage on the environment, to the land, water habitat and human beings cannot be quantified. An environmentalist who would not want his name in print told The Nation that even though there is still ongoing research on the effect of gas flaring on human beings, “the effects are sometimes visible on people residing in areas close to refineries. The sign and symptoms include vomiting, cancer diseases, lung diseases and Asthma.”

It is believed that Nigeria is losing lots of gas daily, including carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, sulphur and nitrogen oxide, which could be channelled to positive use by Nigerians. It is also believed that rather than trapping these gas substances for use, Nigeria allows them to be flared while importing them for use in various aspect of the country.

‘This gesture by our son is a source of relief to me as the custodian of peace and security in Pankshin and Kanke local governments. This is because there will be a drastic reduction in youth restiveness. This empowerment scheme has offered direct jobs to about 500 youths’

TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 2014

Website: http://www.thenationonlineng.com

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•From left: Dr Bimpe Adebiyi, Head, Dentistry Division, Federal Ministry of Health; Hon. Anthony George Manzo, representing the Senate President; Mr David Okeme, Brand Building Director, Unilever Nig. Plc, and Dr Khaliru Alhassan, Minister of State for Health at the National Oral Health dinner

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City agog for oral health

T was a day everyone focused on the teeth. The Lagos Osun Hall of the Transcorp Hilton Hotel Abuja was the setting. Among the audience were the high and mighty, all making a strong case for better teeth care. The event was the World Oral Health Day (WOHD), which promotes oral health and hygiene amongst Nigerians and creates awareness on the myriad of oral diseases in the country.

The Senate President and National Oral Health Champion for Nigeria, Senator David Mark, represented by the Deputy Chair, Senate Committee, Senator Gyang Pwajok, was there. So also Health Minister, Prof Chukwu Onyebuchi; Minister of State for Health, Dr Khaliru Alhassan; Director, National Primary Healthcare Development Agency (NPHCDA), Dr Ado Jimada Gana Muhammad; President, Nigerian Dental Association, Dr. Akanbi Olojede.

Not to be left behind in the business of good oral health for Nigerians were Rector, Federal School of Dental Therapy and Technology, Enugu, Dr Kehinde Sofoluwe; Country Representative, World Health Organisation (WHO), Dr Rui Gama Vaz; Director -General National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), Chris Onyemenam; Director General, National Orientation Agency (NOA), Mike Omeri and Director General, National Agency for Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Dr Paul Orhii.

By Oyeyemi Gbenga-Mustapha

The occasion was put in place by the Ministry of Health and UNILEVER Nigeria Plc. Its theme was: ‘Celebrating Healthy Smiles; your mouth says who you are’. Pupils of Model Primary School, Maitama, Abuja and the Africa International College, Abuja campaigned for better oral health for all, even demonstrating how to achieve that goal through proper brushing morning and last thing at night.

Senator Mark, who is Oral Health Champion, appreciated Unilever’s commitment to the oral health campaign in Nigeria. He charged Unilever with the responsibility to lead advocacy, and be the image maker for oral health through the industry, facilitate and mobilise resources and support the full integration of oral health into general health.

He used the occasion to also inaugurate other Oral Health Ambassadors across the country from different walks of life. Each of the states of the federation has an ambassador.

Senator Mark said: “This is an opportunity for us to assemble all stakeholders in oral health to distillate ideas that will bring Nigeria to a pride of place among the committee of nations. The health of the entire body can be affected by oral health so the whole mouth needs to be taken care of for any individual to be in good health. The word ‘oral’ refers to the

‘Sustainable oral health campaign among Nigerians has become imperative to create awareness on the prevention, early detection and treatment and management of common oral conditions’ mouth, which includes the teeth, gums, jawbone and supporting tissues. Oral health is a state of being free from chronic mouth and facial pain, oral and throat cancers, oral sores, birth defects such as cleft lip and palate, periodontal disease, tooth decay, tooth loss and other diseases as well as disorders that affect the oral cavity. Risk factors for oral diseases include unhealthy diet, tobacco use, harmful alcohol use and poor oral hygiene. Good oral healthcare habits can prevent diseases in the mouth.”

He said it is no more news that there is a huge oral health need amongst the Nigerian populace and there is a relatively low dental awareness in the country as research has shown that a large number of people visit the dental clinic because of pain. “This is un-

acceptable because the onset of pain is an indication that the disease can no longer be remedied with simple therapy. The treatment often required in this circumstance would be too expensive for a low to middle income patient. Sustainable Oral health campaign among Nigerians has therefore become imperative to create awareness on the prevention, early detection and treatment and management of common oral conditions,” Senator Mark said.

He recalled that he was inaugurated as Oral Health Champion in November 2012 along with a formal launch of a National Oral Health policy. “The policy provides a strategic framework for oral healthcare delivery in the country. Subsequently, I have identified 37 eminent person-

alities who were inaugurated as State Oral Health Ambassadors on 16th May, 2013 to lead oral health awareness creation in their respective states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). I have also identified other prominent functionaries in various sectors of the Nigerian economy who would be inaugurated today as Oral Health Ambassadors.

“The Federal Ministry of Health has adopted a community participation approach which involves primary oral healthcare education through promotion of oral healthcare in schools, market places and worship places. Introducing these target groups to good oral healthcare habits would prevent oral diseases and improve outcomes when they do occur. This will lead to better quality of life and improved socioeconomic status of Nigerians,” he said.

Senator Mark said he has undertaken to scale up the Oral Health Campaign in schools and eventually cover all the schools in the six geopolitical zones of Nigeria. He said: “Certainly, I would need the involvement of all Oral Health Ambassadors. This campaign will equally sensitize the general public to rise up along with Government to promote good oral healthcare habits. To this end, the Federal Ministry of Health has resuscitated its School Oral Health Programme which is an oral health promotion •Continued on page 34

THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 2014

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ABUJA REVIEW

City agog for oral health •Continued from page 33 programme targeted at school children and their teachers.

“In line with this strategy, I personally flagged off the Oral Health Campaign in schools in Nigeria in November 2013 at the L.E.A Primary School, Ushafa, Bwari Area Council.

The event was a high point in the celebration of the 2013 National Oral Health week by the Federal Ministry of Health. At this juncture ladies and gentlemen, I solicit the commitment and support of all and sundry towards a paradigm shift from limiting dentistry in Nigeria to only the treatment of diseased teeth to the care of the mouth. This is a global trend and Nigeria must join the rest of the world in the ‘Celebration of Healthy Smiles”. I therefore urge this distinguished audience to maximise the opportunity before us to galvanise the available resources that will position the Nigeria Oral Health system on a sustainable pedestal for development.”

Corroborating Senator Mark’s submissions, Unilever MD, Nsarkoh represented by the Brand Building Director, David Okeme, said: “Dental decay affects up to 90 per cent of children in many countries and research also found that adolescents who brush their teeth more than once a day by 12 years of age are more likely to continue to do so throughout their teenage years and into adulthood.

“These figures matter to us, which is why we’re harnessing the ingenuity of kids to get them to actively participate in our campaign. If we wish to create an impact in the oral care habits of Nigerians, we thought it best to start with the kids. If we empower them, they can then influence adults to create change in their oral care habits.”

Nsarkoh said UNILEVER as part of its celebration of the World Oral Health Day with its leading oral health care brand, Close Up, is more committed commitment to improve the oral health of 10 million Nigerians by 2020.

“This will be achieved by educating children to brush twice a day through its Brush Day and Night School Programme, which aims to inculcate among Nigerian children good brushing habits so they can avoid major oral problems and lead a healthier, more fulfilled life through to adulthood.

“Our commitment to oral care attests to our leading as manufacturer of oral care products, including toothpaste and toothbrushes. A category within Unilever, a global manufacturer of leading brands in foods, home care and personal care, Unilever Oral Care is represented by brands including Close Up, Pepsodent, Signal and others. Unilever Oral Care is present in more than 50 countries around the world meaning, four billion people; approximately 70 per cent of the world’s population has access to Unilever oral care products.

UNILEVER oral care supports over forty oral health improvement programmes in countries around the world. Unilever Oral Care holds a unique partnership with the FDI World Dental Federation - the authoritative independent voice of dentistry - to improve oral health on a global scale. Unilever Oral Care supports dental research through its partnership with IADR (International Association of Dental Research) spanning over 20 years.”

Speaking at the event, the Honorable Minister of Health, Dr. Onyebuchi Chukwu said that “Oral health is extremely important to our overall health and well being and that is why the Federal Ministry of Health has joined forces with UNILEVER in their campaign against poor dental hygiene.”

Dr Alhassan was of the opinion that

Subsidised farm inputs for 200,000 farmers From Frank Ikpefan

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•The participants

‘I solicit the commitment and support of all and sundry towards a paradigm shift from limiting dentistry in Nigeria to only the treatment of diseased teeth to the care of the mouth. This is a global trend and Nigeria must join the rest of the world in the ‘Celebration of Healthy Smiles’ hitherto the Nation’s oral healthcare delivery system was haphazard in terms of organisation and management and only minimal attention was given to oral health. This was due to the erroneous perception that oral problems are not life threatening.

“Meanwhile, studies have shown the significant impact that oral diseases have on the health and well being of affected individuals. They cause pain, increase morbidity and mortality which results in loss of school hours and reduced social-economic activities. For example, oral cancers and some oro-facial deformities are left untreated until it has become late. This leads to gross deformity and scarring thereby requiring expensive reparative surgeries.

The FMOH recognizes that oral health promotion in Nigeria is a na-

tional task. All stakeholders must collaborate to meet the targets in the National Oral Health Policy, which includes raising the level of awareness of the importance of Oral Health among at least 70 per cent of Nigerians by the year 2015.”

Head, Dentistry Division, FMOH, Dr (Mrs) ‘Bimpe Adebiyi speaking on the National Oral Health Policy and the roles of the Oral Health Ambassadors said the vision of the Federal Government for Oral Health is to improve the oral health status of all Nigerians; while the Mission is to improve the level of oral health through the development and promotion of accessible, effective, efficient and sustainable oral Health System based on prevention, early detection and prompt treatment of oral diseases, using evidence-based intervention.

The Oral Health Champion hosted other Oral health Ambassadors to a gala night and dinner.

At the gathering, the representative of the Unilever MD, Okeme announced the company’s commitment to partner with the Senate President and National Oral Health Champion to improve the oral health behaviours of 10 million Nigerians through the Close Up Brush Day and Night campaign.

He said many Nigerians, who brush their teeth, brush only once a day and that was mostly in the morning.

“Brushing at night after dinner is a very important challenge to address,” said Okeme.

In support of the initiative to address night brushing, the Chief of Staff to the Senate President who represented the National Oral Health Champion at the dinner, Hon. Anthony George Manzo, supported a young girl, Kaetochi Okeke-Mgbajiaka, who demonstrated and challenged the audience on the importance of night brushing.

Hon Nsarkoh said: “We want to engage as many school children as possible with our Close Up programmes because we believe they have the power to influence. This demonstration and the brush day and night campaign provides them with the platform to show Nigeria their ideas and inspire people to change how they take care of their teeth.”

•From left: Comrade Simon Anchaver; Comrade Lateef Oyelekan; National President Medical and Health Workers’ Union of Nigeria (MHWUN), Comrade Ayuba Wabba; Minister of Labour Chukwemeka Wogu; President, Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) Abdulwaheed Omar and President National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) Dr. Najeem Usman Yasin cutting the cake during the commissioning of the Medical and Health Lodge, Abuja.

PHOTO: AKIN OLADOKUN

HE Director of Fertiliser in the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Osho Akinbolawa has said that about 200,000 farmers in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) will have access to farm inputs through the use of smart cards.

Akinbolawa spoke in Abuja while briefing journalists on the 2014 Growth Enhancement Scheme.

He further explained that when the smart card is placed on a special android device, the biometric information of the farmer would be read on the card.

The android device will be made available to agro dealers at various redemption centres across the FCT and other parts of the country.

Once a farmer comes to collect farm input for the Growth Enhancement Support (GES), the agro dealer would collect the farmer’s smart card, place it on the android device and the entire farmer’s biometric data would be displayed, including his photograph.

Akinbolawa said the reason for this new technology was to ensure that only registered farmers benefit from the subsidised fertiliser and seeds in the GES scheme.

He also said during the registration of farmers, the android device can be used even in areas where there is no internet. The device will capture all the data of farmers, and upload the information immediately it gets internet connection.

Families still agonise over NIS job tragedy From Gbenga Omokhunu, Abuja

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ARCH 15 will forever be remembered by survivors and family members of applicants especially for those that lost their lives during the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) recruitment exercise that later ended on a tragic note through a stampede. Several people from across the country died in the incident.

That of Abuja was worst as about seven applicants including two expectant mothers died while over 50 sustained various degrees of injury.

Many of the casualties who spoke with The Nation blamed the stampede, which happened around 9.00am on the poor handling of the crowd by the Immigration officials.

They explained that the curious applicants who had waited for hours at the gates of the stadium for the commencement of the exercise tried to gain entrance through a narrow gate but were cut in the stampede.

It was like a drama at the Abuja National Stadium where for the first time it was filled to capacity and many applicants were still outside the main gate waiting to gain entrance.

Even after the stampede, it was as if nothing happened as majority of the applicants were glued to their sits.

Many others were sympathizing with those affected, and were helping men of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and those of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), to evacuate the affected applicants to the National Hospital.

It was unfortunate that even the management of the NIS were not on ground to carry out what they caused.

The environment at Stadium and that of the National Hospital was thrown into confusion has no one expected the ugly development.

The survivors and family ...

THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 2014

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ABUJA REVIEW

•From left: Abia State Governor, Theodore Orji; former Commonwealth Secretary-General, Emeka Anyaoku; Vice-President Namadi Sambo; Chairman, Federal Civil Service Commission; Deaconess Joan Ayo and others during the 50th anniversary of Federal Civil Service Commission and Public Service Lecture at the International Conference Centre Abuja.

PHOTO: AKIN OLADOKUN

•From left: Minister of Finance, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala; Oyo State Commissioner for Finance, Hon. Zacheus Adelabu and Deputy Governor of Jigawa State, Alhaji PHOTO: AKIN OLADOKUN Mahmud Gumel at a meeting in Abuja.

•From left: Minister of Petroleum, Diezani Alison-Madueke; Minister of Works, Mike Onolememen; Minister of Special Duties, Karbi Tanimu Turaki, and Minister of Transport, Idris Umar at the Federal Executive PHOTO: AKIN OLADOKUN Council meeting at the Presidential Villa.

•Deputy Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on ICT, Tajudeen Yusuf flanked by Chairman, House of Representatives Press Corps, Emmanuel Ovuakporie (left) and Special Assistant to Deputy Chairman Bolaji Afolabi at a press briefing on House activities

•From left: Chairman, Forte Oil, Femi Otedola, Chairman, Dangote Group of Companies, Alhaji Aliyu Dangote and Minister of Petroleum, Deziani Alison-Madueke during the meeting of Economic Management Team at the Presidential Villa.

PHOTO: AKIN OLADOKUN

PHOTO: ABAYOMI FAYESE

•Minority Chief Whip, All Progressives Congress (APC) in the House of Representatives, Samson Osagie (left); members: Andrew Uchendu; Mrs Ayo Omidiran and Zakari Mohammed at a press briefing on the court ruling asking defected members of the party to vacate their seats.

PHOTO: ABAYOMI FAYESE

•Minister of State for Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Olajumoke Akinjide (second right),cutting the tape; Managing Director, Abuja Enterprises Agency (AEA), Aisha Abubakar (second right), Archbishop of Abuja Catholic Diocese, John Cardinal Onaiyekan (left) at the commissioning of AEA Entrepreneurial Complex in Abuja.

PHOTO: ABAYOMI FAYESE

THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 2014

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ABUJA REVIEW

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HE Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting presided over by Vice-President Namadi Sambo last week witnessed an impressive turnout of ministers.

President Goodluck Jonathan was away in Brussels, Belgium attending the European Union (EU)-Africa summit.

The FEC meeting recorded attendance of 27 ministers out of the current 37 members of cabinet.

Attendance to various past FEC meetings presided over by Sambo had always been within the range of between 12 and 15 ministers.

The practice was that many of the ministers always regard official trips of President Jonathan outside the country as an opportunity to stay away from Samboled FEC meetings.

The ministers, who were rarely absent during any FEC meeting presided over by President Jonathan, unless on official engagements abroad, always prefer to go for their private businesses when the President is not around.

It has also been rumoured in the past that ministers who travel for international conferences abroad prefer to go on shopping sprees while important meetings were in progress.

But the President has spoken on their defence, claiming that not all ministers were meant to attend all meetings as they were scheduled to attend those meetings relevant to their portfolios.

The ugly trend witnessed in some past Sambo-led FEC meetings prompted me to draw attention to it in my write-up of Tuesday, October 1, 2013 entitled "Where are the Ministers?"

Only 14 ministers attended the October 1, 2013 FEC meeting.

I also pointed out in the writeup the importance of truly serving the country with commitment and without any eye-service. I also added that any disrespect for Sambo is also disrespect for Jonathan who mandated the Vice-President to preside over such meetings in his absence.

But last Wednesday's attendance was a different story even though the meeting did not last for more than one hour.

The 27 ministers who arrived

Impressive turn-out at Sambo-led FEC meeting The ministers, who were rarely absent during any FEC meeting presided over by President Jonathan, unless on official engagements abroad, always prefer to go for their private businesses when the President is not around…It has also been rumoured in the past that ministers who travel for international conferences abroad prefer to go on shopping sprees while important meetings were in progress at the FEC Chamber before the meeting started with National Anthem and opening prayer by

From the Villa

By Augustine Ehikioya

10:07 a.m. were Mike Onolememen (Works), Chinedu Nebo (Power), Laurencia Mallam (Environment), Mohammed Adoke (Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice), Mohammed Sada (Mines and Steel Development).

Also at the meeting were Emeka Wogu (Labour), Tanimu Turaki (Special Duties), Omobola Johnson (Communication Technology), Asabe Ahmed (Agriculture - State),

Nyesom Wike (Education -State), Sarah Ochekpe (Water), Zainab Maina (Women Affairs), Boni Haruna (Youth Development), Edem Duke (Culture and Tourism).

Others in attendance were Samuel Ortom (Trade and Investment-State), Abba Moro (Interior), Viola Onwuliri (Foreign AffairsState I), Garious Ishiaku (Niger Delta-State), Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala (Finance), Umar Idris (Transport),

Labaran Maku (Information), Olajumoke Akinjide (FCT-State), Khaliru Alhassan (Health State), Musiliu Obanikoro (Defence-State), Mohammed Wakil (Power-State), Deziani AlisonMadueke (Petroleum), and Bala Mohammed (FCT).

The three ministers, who were officially announced to be in the President's delegation to Belgium, were Aliyu Gusau (Defence), Aminu Wali (Foreign Affairs), and Olusegun Aganga (Trade and Investment).

Since there are currently 37 ministers in the cabinet, seven ministers who did not travel with Jonathan were not at the Samboled FEC meeting last week.

Being the last warning, I will not mention those who were absent from the FEC meeting here.

Even with the impressive attendance at the meeting last week, this piece is a reminder to all of us to continue to put in our best at all times for the country's growth and development.

FCT tackles poor medical waste management

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ETERMINED to improve the management of medical wastes and reduce the rate at which health personnel contract infectious diseases, the Federal Capital Territory Administration has approved the FCT healthcare waste management guidelines to improve the handling of such wastes in the FCT. Over 100 health personnel in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have so far contracted Hepatitis B, HIV and AIDS and other diseases due to poor management of medical wastes.

The health workers are said to have contracted these diseases as a result of shoddy handling of injections and other medical wastes.

The Secretary, FCT Health Secretariat, Dr. Ademola Onakomaiya said the administration, in accordance with international best practices, has approved the FCT healthcare waste management guidelines to improve the handling of such wastes in the FCT. Onakomaiya revealed this at a press conference in Abuja where he said the administration will make an annual budget of N300 million in the next three years to make the policy a success.

He said: “The minister directed that the old policy be streamlined into guidelines for a more suitable FCT waste management policy, to formulate guideline that will be broad and holistic in approach towards healthcare waste management.

“Before now, we had incinerators in about 60 to 70 per cent of our hospitals which do the burn and bury approach for healthcare waste management.

But in the next two quarters I am sure, every hospi-

‘In its determination to enhance the procurement, storage and distribution of drugs, laboratory reagents, medical gases and other specialised medical items to all FCT Administration Hospitals, the FCT Executive Committee has approved that the Abuja Central Medical Stores (ACMS) operate in line with the National Drug Distribution Guidelines’ From Grace Obike

tal will have incinerators to handle their wastes.

“The reason for this guideline is to enable public health workers who are more prone to the dangers of contracting hepatitis B, HIV and AIDS and other diseases to have a guideline to follow for medical waste management.”

He also said in its determination to enhance the procurement, storage and distribution of drugs, laboratory reagents, medical gases and other specialised medical items to all FCT Administration Hospitals, the FCT Executive Committee has approved that the Abuja Central Medical Stores (ACMS) operate in line with the National Drug Distribution Guidelines.

Onakomaiya said the minister noted that the approval was to further ensure regular provision of quality and cost-effective medical supplies for FCT residents.

•Agaba Idu, Ata Igala and President, Kogi State Council of Chiefs, HRM Michael Idakwo Ameh Oboni presenting Arise Igala Man of the Year Award to former Kogi State Governor Prince Abubakar Audu during Arise Igala Leadership Award held in Abuja PHOTO: ABAYOMI FAYESE

•Kogi State Deputy Governor, Yomi Awoniyi; former Kogi State Governor, Ibrahim Idris and Benue State Governor Gabriel Suswam during the visit of PHOTO: AKIN OLADOKUN North-West Delegate at the State House Abuja.

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THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 2014

NATIONAL BAR

Following menace of money laundering and corruption in the country, a law firm, J-K Gadzama LLP, examines the challenges of combating international money laundering and financial crimes. Legal Editor, JOHN UNACHUKWU reports.

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Lawyers canvass international collaborations against money laundering, others

AWYERS, Justices and leadership of anti-corruption agencies in the coun try, last week at the Sheraton Hotel & Towers, Abuja, called for more international collaborations to tackle the problems of enforcement of money laundering, financial crimes legislations and sanctions.

They spoke during the Seventh annual public lecture organised by J-K Gadzama LLP. The speakers noted that money laundering and financial crimes, which often times are connected to terrorism, have assumed enormous international dimension and therefore, needs international collaborations to nip the challenges in the bud.

Welcoming participants to the lecture, Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama (SAN) said: “This event is a continuation of one of the visions that our firm has been nurturing for a while. The idea is to put in the public domain important issues of professional and national importance to instigate debate and actualise ideas for necessary reforms in aid of the legal profession and the Nigerian Legal System. This public lecture is a further tool towards the actualisation of the firm’s goals.”

Chairman Independent Corrupt Practices and other related offences Commission (ICPC), Mr. Ekpo Nta, who chaired the occasion said: “Money laundering involves activities to conceal the existence, illegal source, or illegitimate application of income and purposely attempt to make such income legitimate.

“A money laundering scheme involves three phases: placement, layering and integration. In the placement, money is deposited in a financial institution through ‘front operation’ that provides a pseudolegitimate source for the money.

Next, layering involves a transfer of illegitimate income through international wire transfers across different accounts.

Ekpo Nta said: “Finally, integration is accomplished by reintroducing the funds in legitimate economic activities. Organised crime and money laundering have a special connection due to the technical sophistication and relation to drug trafficking that each holds. Various international regimes have been instituted to suppress money laundering activities, alongside of which law enforcement responses have been devised.

Speaking on the role of enforcement and regulation, the ICPC chair said: “Money laundering and financial crime are activities that are prohibited nationally and internationally. In Nigeria the Money Laundering Act 2004 (as amended in 2011) makes comprehensive prohibitions to prevent money laundering activities including the financing of terrorism, the laundering of proceeds of a crime, or an illegal act etc.

He noted that the sophistication of money laundering and related offences has been growing geometrically to the extent that normal national and international policing could not keep pace and required specialised inter-governmental bodies like the United Nations Office on Drug and Control (UNODC), international initiatives like the Stolen Asset Recovery Initiative (STAR) which is a partnership arrangement between the World Bank and the UNODC to reduce or end safe havens for corrupt funds and the laundering of proceeds of corruption and facilitate the systematic and timely return of such stolen assets.

“At the national level the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) was set up in Nigeria in 2004 as a Specialised Law Enforcement Agency to enforce the Money Laundering Act (2004) as amended in 2011. Laws and regulations also need to rely on specialised enforcement agencies. With respect to crimes with important international dimensions, such as in the case of money laundering, additional enforcement issues are proposed at an international level” Speaking on the topic: “Money laundering and financial crimes: problems of international enforcement”, the guest speaker, who is also a member of J-K Gadzama LLP law firm, Mr. Aliun Jones (QC) said: “Modern International agreements concerning the investigation, prosecution and punishment of international

•From left; Former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice M. A. Belgore(CJN),Mr. Ekpo Nta, former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Mohammed Lawal Uwais(CJN)rtd, Mr. Jones, Chief Gadzama (SAN) and Chief Judge FCT, Justice I.M. Bukar

• From left Minister for Special Duties, Kabiru Taminu Turaki (SAN) Mr. Oladele, Mr. Pwul (SAN) and Mrs. Awomolo (SAN)

•From left; Mr. Michael Bazeley, Chief Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN) and Chairman, Arewa Lawyers Forum, M. A. Abubakar

•From left: Former General Secretary, NBA, Olumuyiwa Akinboro, IBB Benebe and former General Secretary, NBA, Dele Adesina (SAN)

By John Austin Unachukwu

or transnational crimes are an attractive display of well though out and detailed legal commodities. The days are long gone when states could consider, as the Privy Council did in England in 1984, “All crimes are local” but the practice of individual state in implementing them is patchily, and often falls short because national governments do not have the will, resources, or expertise to deal with them.

Sometimes, it seems to me, they simply lack the confidence or courage to implement them.”

He continued: ”This irresolution applies both to international and transnational crimes. International crimes”, torture, war crimes, genocides, hostage taking and hijacking for example, are those now recognised as crimes against the international community, imposing on all states the obligation to prosecute or extradite offend-

ers found on their territories.”

According to him, the determination to enforce penalties for international crimes varies with the political weather. The enormous progress made by such cases as Pinochet in the House of Lords in the United Kingdom (UK) received a setback when the “War Against Terror” began.

He said the UN International Court for Rwanda in Tanzania has closed through lack of finance while genocide suspects remain untried. “Transnational crimes are particularly threatening because they cross international borders. It is not to be expected that the investigation and prosecution of transnational crimes has been as resolute as it should be, even though corruption and its associated offences such as money laundering is now the subject of the detailed UN Convention Against Corruption (UNCAC) of 2004,” he said.

Jones explained that the Harare Scheme, Mutual Legal Assistance (MLA), applies to the Commonwealth. UNCAC provides for MLA in Article 46. He said applications may be made for mutual legal assistance to the Central Authority, Home Office, United Kingdom for assistance in obtaining evidence; oral evidence in court; freezing and restraining orders; production orders directed at obtaining evidence from banks and accountants; search and seizure under warrant; production of financial information from banks, or investigations by the Serious Fraud Office Guidelines are available from the Central Authority.

Decisions, he said, may be challenged by judicial review. The case of Sani Abacha vs Home Secretary and the Federal Government of Nigeria approved a MLA request and held that fairness did not always require that such a request be made known to the target.Under the proceeds of Crime Act 2002 (External Requests and Orders) Order 2005, it is possible to register and enforce an order for confiscation in the requesting state. (See also Article 54 UNCAC).

Mr. Jones, who examined the problem of international enforcement, said: “If a crime can be tried in one or more jurisdictions, where should it be tried?, adding: “International conventions; torture, hijacking, hostage taking all contain the maxim “either prosecute or extradite”; “aud dedere, aut judicare”.

However, there are virtually no mechanisms for determining whether to try in the state where the crime was committed; or where the person is found; or in a third country where the crime had effects. The Pinochet case (1999) A.C. 147 (House of Lords) is an example of a third state application.

The same uncertainty, Jones said, lies in transnational financial crime. He cited the US case where prosecutions connected with Enron, were undertaken in cases having little to do with the USA; eg Berminghan and others v Government of the USA (2007) QB 2007.

“What were the principles according to which it was decided to prosecute James Ibori in the United Kingdom and seek his extradition? Simple expedience? There may be intelligible reasons in any one case, but what are the principles? Especially where problems arise in confiscation after conviction?” he asked.

He examined the provisions of the UNCAC and noted that: “Particular crimes; corruption and money laundering, the provisions of Chapter 5 of the UNCAC, though often praised as comprehensive, in fact, gives wide powers in relation to return to the state in which the assets are confiscated; the state from where the money is stolen is not to be equated with victims of the offence. “ Mr. Kayode Oladele, who represented the EFCC Chairman, Mr. Ibrahim Lamorde, Chief Mrs Victoria O. Awomolo (SAN) and Mr. Garuba Pwul (SAN) all discussed the paper .

The Minister of Special Duties, Kabiru Taminu Turaki (SAN) said: “Money laundering is an avenue used by corrupt people both private and public, to siphon ill gotten funds to what is seen as a safe heaven. Now we are concerned about money laundering because more often than not, you see the issue of money laundering as having a kind of bearing with terrorism.”

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THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 2014

LAW PERSONALTY

NBA, lawyers mourn Ezeobi •Adekoya proposes hall of fame

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HE Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has sent its condo lence on the death of the former chairman of NBA Lagos branch, Chief Theodore Ezeobi (SAN). Ezeobi died on Monday last week. He was 76.

In a statement, the NBA President, Okey Wali (SAN) said he was touched by the death of the amiable Lagos lawyer. He said: “The NBA has received with shock, the sad news of the transition of Chief Theodore Ezeobi (SAN). Past chairman NBA Lagos Branch and a long time member Executive Committee of the NBA, Chief Ezeobi was a committed Bar man and the NBA will surely miss him.

“On behalf of the NBA, we commensurate with his wife, children and other members of his family. May God give them the fortitude to bear the loss. May his soul rest in the bossom of our Lord.”

Also, a former Assistant National Publicity Secretary of the NBA, Mr. Ike Uko, said: “On March 30, the news of the demise of Chief Theodore Anachuna Ezeobi (SAN) filled the air in Lagos. It became apparent that the senior lawyer had passed on to join the saints triumphant! Many would miss him for various reasons, especially as per his standing as a private legal practitioner.”

He recalled how he met him. “For me, meeting the learned silk was by chance. As a young lawyer practising in Enugu, I ran into him at the Federal High Court Enugu at its old location in New Haven area of Enugu. I came for a matter in company of my pupil master then, Prince Anthony Igboji. After court, I went to meet Chief Ezeobi who was then Chairman, Nigerian Bar Association, Lagos branch. I introduced myself and we talked. On a parting note, he suggested I could relocate to Lagos.”

Uko said in 1994, he relocated to Lagos. Since then, he got to know him better, adding: “We met regularly at branch meetings and other bar events. He advised I should get involved in serving the bar. We got closer and he took me to other law related associations, including the Otu Oka Iwu, Lagos.

He continued: “In our relationship of over 20 years, I came to realise he was a principled and courageous man. You knew where he stood on any issue. It is a trait he cultivated from school days.”

He said Ezeobi, who hailed from Achina in Orumba Local Government Area of Anambra State, was born in 1938. After Standard Six, he gained admission to Government College, Umuahia, the first Government secondary school in old Eastern Region modelled after British Public Schools.”

Other best pupils in the then Colonial Eastern Nigeria (now Enugu), Rivers, Cross River, Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Abia, Bayelsa and Ebonyi states also attended the school. The bright boys attended the school from all parts of the region. Chinua Achebe, Justice Onyeama, Ken Saro Wiwa, etc were among them, he recalled.

Ezeobi passed out in 1958 and in 1962, gained admission to the University of Lagos (UNILAG) as a pioneer student in the Faculty of Law. Among his classmates were Justice P.O. Aderemi, a re-

Why Fulani herdmen, farmers clashes persist in the North, by Falana

By Adebisi Onanuga

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AGOS lawyer, Femi Falana (SAN) has ascribed the continued clashes between the Fulani herdsmen and farmers in the Northern states to official neglect by those in government, who have refused to implement the report of the Sheikh Ahmed Lemu Presidential Panel.

He, therefore, urged the Federal Government to implement the report of the panel it set up by the to probe the 2011 post election violence and civil disturbances in some Northern States in order to stem clashes between the Fulani herdsmen and farmers in the Northern part of the country.

•Funke Adekoya (SAN)

• Wali (SAN)

By John Austin Unachukwu

tired Justice of the Supreme Court. He said UNILAG served as baptism of fire for his radical views as a progressive. In his final year in 1964/65, the university was engulfed in agitation over the replacement of pioneer Vice Chancellor, Prof Eni Njoku with Dr. S. O. Biobaku; most students preferred to have Prof Eni Njoku, the founding vice chancellor. Most students were passionate about their preference that a student Adams got violent on the new university’s vice chancellor to make his point.

“They had such giants as Prof L.C.B. Gower, Prof Cyprian Okonkwo of Criminal Law Fame, Professor Gaius Ezejiofor of Land Law, Prof. E. I. Nwogugu, Dr. N.A. Onejeme, Prof. A.O. Chukwurah and Prof. M. I. Jegede. as pioneer law teachers at the Faculty of Law. When most of the lecturers left University of Lagos to other universities such as the University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus, Ezeobi was one of the final year students who left for UNN. He lost a year graduating in 1966.

“In 1966/67 session, he came to the Nigerian Law School, Igbosere, Lagos for the compulsory one year training. Midway into the programme, the Nigerian civil war started.

“At the end of the war in 1970, he came back to the Law School, despite having attended the Biafra Law School like most law graduates in the then Republic of Biafra. At his call and enrolment in 1971, he had lost five years of seniority! He used to tell me of one Mr. Madueke who left with him to Enugu Campus. One day at the Eko Hotel at lunch in 2010, I met the lawyer, Madueke W.N. and told him the story Chief Ezeobi told me and he confirmed it, he further recalled.

Uko added: “For his pupilage, Chief T.A. was with Chief G.C.M, Onyiuke in Lagos. Onyiuke was the first lawyer from the then Awka division in 1947 and rose to become Queens Counsel, Attorney-General of the Federation (1966), and later Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN).

“As a bar man, Ezeobi represented the best of the traditions: impeccable dressing, hard work and a stickler for ethics. Most people remember the principled stand he took during the Port Harcourt Conference Crisis. It was no surprise that he was supported across board and he won easily as Chairman of Nigerian Bar Association, Lagos branch in 1993. As chairman of the branch, he organised a successful fund raiser for the bar centre.

Uko said, Ezeobi stood for the bar. “No wonder four of his children also came into the profession. The bar will miss him.

He was a bencher. May the good Lord receive his soul in paradise. May God give his family, the branch and the profession the fortitude to bear the loss. Nnam Ukwu, La Na Udo”.

Also, a former Vice-President of the NBA, Mrs. Funke Adekoya (SAN) has proposed a Hall of Fame to immortalise the eminent lawyers.

Speaking at the weekend, Mrs Adekoya said the edifice would serve as an inspiration to young and upcoming lawyers to toe the path of honour by emulating these role models and pioneers.

Mrs Adekoya further said the Hall would boost efforts at restoring professional ethics among lawyers, adding that this has become urgent in view of rising cases of professional misconduct among some legal practitioners.

He said if government had implemented the directive contained in the White Paper issued by the Federal Government since August 2012, the recent violent clashes between the Fulani herdsmen and many farmers in the North would have been averted.

The said report studied the cause of the regular clashes between the Fulani herdsmen and farmers in the various parts of the country and proferred solutions.

The appeal was contained in a statement titled: “Incessant killing by Fulani herdsmen caused by official negligence” issued in Lagos.

Falana lamented that in the last few weeks, Nigerians have witnessed avoidable violent clashes between Fulani herdsmen and farmers in some states in the country, noting that the attacks have led to loss of several lives and the destruction of farms and

other properties. In many instances fatal road accidents have occurred on major roads caused by the Fulani herdsmen.

“In total abdication of their constitutional duty of protecting lives and properties the authorities have failed to halt such killings due to inexplicable negligence. In particular, the Federal Government has refused or failed to implement the official policy which would have halted the incessant mayhem unleashed on innocent people by the Fulani cattle rearers.

The activist said: “Instead of embarking on a fresh investigation into the crisis the Federal Government should carry out the directive without any further delay.”

He recalled that the Sheikh Ahmed Lemu Presidential Panel discovered that: “One of the main causes of conflict between the Fulani herdsmen and other ethnic groups has to do with the damage to cultivated crops caused by their cattle.

Institute holds 5th Diaspora Scholars’ lecture today The Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies (NIALS) holds her 5th Diaspora Scholars’ lecture today.

Venue: Shehu Musa Yar ’Adua Centre, Abuja Time: 11am under the chairmanship of Senator Margery Chigbogu Chuba-Okadigbo.

Theme: International criminal justice through an African lense Lecture to be delivered by Prof. Ngozichukwuka Ugo, distinguished Professor of International law, Havard Alumnus, visiting (Professor to the International Criminal Court, United Nations Consultant on counter terrorism and peace building).

Chief host: Minister of Justice and Attorney-General , Mohammed Bello Adoke (SAN) Guest of honour: Chief Judge, Federal High Court, Justice Ibrahim Auta NBA Ilorin branch holds law week The 2014 biennial law week of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Ilorin branch will end on Thursday.

NBA Ihiala branch holds law week Ihiala branch of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) holds her annual law week from Thursday to Friday at the Christian Women Organisation (CWO) hall Ihiala, Imo State from tomorrow to Friday.

NBA Ikom branch holds her inauguration and law week The President of Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Okey Wali (SAN) will inaugurate the officers of Ikom branch of the association during its law week which comes up from tomorrow to Friday at Ivany Hotels and Suites Ugep, Cross River State from 10 am daily.

We are fully prepared to make a difference in the Ports Bello The Executive Secretary, Nigerian Shippers Council (NSC) Mr. Hassan Bello has restated the readiness of the Council to play its new role as a commercial regulator at the Nigerian Ports.

He said this in a chat with The Nation over the forthcoming Maritime Seminar for Judges th The 13 edition of the Maritime Seminar for Judges which the Council organises in collaboration with the National Judicial Institute comes up at Sheraton Hotel , Abuja from June 10 -12.

Topics to be discussed at the seminar include: Introduction to Maritime law and Admiralty Jurisdiction; Piracy, armed robbery at the Sea and Maritime boundaries in Nigeria; Charterparties: issues on lay time and demurrage; an overview of Section 20 of the Admiralty Jurisdiction of the Federal High Court viz a viz maritime arbitration clauses; Liability nod terminal operators; Marin insurance in relation to oil and gas.

Resource persons and commentators include: Dr. Wale Olawoyin, Justice Olayinka Faji,Prof. Akin Oyebode, Mr. Chidi Ilogu (SAN), Mrs. Mfon Usoro, Justice Binta Nyako, Mrs. Oritsematosan,Princess Vicky Haastrup, Prof. Ademun-Odeke, Mrs. Funke Agbor and others.

THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 2014

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THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 2014

LAW PERSONALTY

NBA Ikeja elects new officers May 5

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O fewer than eight persons have indicated interest in the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Ikeja Branch chairmanship election holding on May 5.

The aspirants include a former first vice chairman of the branch, Yinka Farounbi and Dele Oloke. The first Vice Chairman contenders are Gloria Nweze , Terry Badmus Adeniyi and Mandy Asagba.

Muna Esegine and Seyi Olawuni are vying for the General Secretary.

Lateef Abdulsalam is so far the sole second vice chairmanship aspirant.

The aspirants’ posters now flood the four divisions of the of Lagos

By Adebisi Onanuga

State High Court following the lifting of the ban on campaign at last month’s general meeting of the branch.

The outgoing Chairman, Mr. Monday Ubani said the election would take place in May at the branch monthly meeting next month.

The electoral committee has been constituted.

Ubani said the electoral body will be guided by the interest of the branch.

“We need people, men and women, who are very upright, who love the branch, who have been showing interest in all the activities of the branch financially, attendance and many other

variables. We need people, who are committed to the bar and interested in ensuring free and fair election.

“Because I would like to conduct an election that is rancour free and hand over to elected officers, who are truely the choice of members of the branch and make sure that the unity of the branch continue,” he said.

He added: “Today as I speak to you, Ikeja is united. There is one strong indivisible branch. All manner of groups have disappeared from the branch.”

Ubani said the executive under his leadership has achieved so much because they are united.

•From left: NBA Chairman, Ikorodu, Mr. Sahid Owosile; Justices of the Appeal Court, Elfrieda Willaims-Dawodu and Joseph Oyewole; Lagos State Chief Judge, Justice Ayotunde Phillips; Prof. Bolaji Owasanoye and Justice Olushola Wiliams at one day stakeholders forum on fast track rules and procedures

Youths bemoan Ajudua’ plight

By Adebisi Onanuga

•Ajudua

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BUSA Youths for Progress, a socio cultural group from Delta State has condemned what it called the maltreatment of one of its benefactors, Fred Ajidua.

It noted that Ajidua has been standing trial for alleged fraud.

The charge was preferred against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in 2003.

In a statement by its Publicity Secretary, Mr. Ifeanyi Okeleke, the

group deplored the ruling of the court denying Ajudua bail despite his health.

It also condemned the EFCC for its double standard.

It accused the commission of misleading Nigerians to believe that the likes of Ajudua were the ones bringing shame to the country.

The group listed some former governors alleged to have looted their states while in office are presently walking freely.

These governors, it said, still enjoys government patronage despite being wanted for various offences, asking: “Why should Ajudua, who has never held any public position be an exception?”

The group said it was a shame

that the commision to use its son as a scape goat.

It wondered why the court has been so harsh on Ajudua despite his willingness to face trial.

According to the group, while Ajudua was said to have jumped bail, he was busy taking care of his kidneys, which almost failed “and the court is aware of this”.

The group wondered why the court, which is the last hope of the common man, would want to turn deaf ears to the plight of a very sick man. It urged the court to be humane and refused to listen to the objection of an organisation such as the EFCC. “It would be a shame to the Judiciary and right thinking Nigerians if Ajudua dies in custody,” the group said.

G.O.K Ajayi: Exit of a legal titan •Continued from page 26

time for Justice (Mrs.) Akinboboye to adjourn an otherwise urgent matter to a date after the interview being sought to be prevented had taken place. She even did more injustice by deciding that Adeyinka Badejo lacked locus standi to bring a case and that her rights were not breached. The case attracted national attention. ‘‘Late Pa Alfred Rewane sent Chief Ayo Opadokun to look for me. I met him and he asked if I would agree that G.O.K. should take over the case. I was happy. For me, there were “two lawyers” in the country at that time: G.O.K Ajayi and Rotimi Williams, a.k.a Timi the Law. But I insisted that my friend should continue under G.O.K. Both Pa Rewane and G.O.K. readily agreed. ‘‘The Court of Appeal of three Judges: Ephraim Akpata, JCA; Bolarinwa O. Babalakin, JCA and Francis Awogu, JCA, after listening to the erudition of G.O.K. ruled that the High Court was wrong and concurred that the fundamental rights of Adeyinka had been breached and she had locus standi.

However, the Court of Appeal added that events had over-taken

the plea to have a proper trial on the discrimination by the FGN under the guise of ‘Federal Character” and offered no remedy for the violated rights of Adeyinka Badejo. ‘‘G.O.K. doggedly decided that where there is a violation, there must be a remedy. We went to the Supreme Court. He prepared the brief in collaboration with Doye Olugbemi and asked Olugbemi to present it on the final date because he could not travel to Abuja. Judgment was given 8 years later on 20 September 1996.

Chief Wahab Shittu described “G.O.K. Ajayi as Jurisprudence personified and “an extraordinary advocate with great talent, G.O.K. was on the same pedestal and rating with the likes of Chief FRA Williams, Chief AfeBabalola and Chief GaniFawehinmi in terms of professionalism, efficiency and effectiveness. A principled and disciplined advocate, G.O.K. easily qualifies as one of the greatest and most colourful lawyers this country has produced. I had the privilege of being led by him in a few cases and I can attest to the fact that he was a man of uncommon intellect, rare integrity, discipline and compassion.

•Ajayi

He said that G.O.K. Ajayi imbued with such traits as follows: , “early to come to the office, disciplined disposition, the professional work rate of the lawyers in his chambers, calm disposition to clients, excellent organisation of his law firm, civil and genial nature, reputation as a team player, deep and vast knowledge of the law, willingness to help and support his subordinates, deep sense of humor and patriotism, the story of his legal exploits and many more as G.O.K. was always willing to share his experiences and knowledge to those of us who looked up to him for guidance in the murky terrain of legal practice. He came, saw and conquered!

Adieu, G.O.K. – cerebral Nigerian and the real human being.”

LAW AND PUBLIC POWER

with gabriel AMALU email:gabrielamalu1@yahoo.com

The judgment against defected lawmakers

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HE political landscape is in for an interesting run-down to the 2015 general elections. Many Nigerians, including this column, had canvassed for a coalition of the regional parties into two mega parties, to present the partisans and the electorates a sharper choice; and to help stabilize our fledgling democracy. Part of the fall out of this paradigm shift, was the movement of several elected officials across the two main parties, the All Progressive Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Just as many thought the challenges from that phase was settled, a federal high court, sitting in Abuja, last week gave a ruling that unsettled many cross-over members of the national assembly.

In a suit brought by the PDP, Justice Adeniyi Ademola of the Federal High Court, Abuja, as reported in the press, restrained the former PDP lawmakers that crossed over to the APC, from exercising their rights and privileges, in their new party. According to the learned Justice, what happened in the Peoples Democratic Party, which saw the emergence of what the protagonists called the new Peoples Democratic Party (newPDP) was not a division, within the contemplation of section 68(1)(g) of the 1999 constitution, as amended. Section 68(1)(g) provides, that a member of the Senate or the House of Representatives shall vacate his seat, if he becomes a member of another party before the expiration of the tenure of the house, unless the movement is as a result of “a division in a political party” of which he was previously a member.

Interestingly, according to the Encarta dictionary, a division or disagreement is synonymous. The dictionary defined division thus: “a disagreement or strong difference of opinion, especially when this leads to a split in a group”. If this ordinary meaning of a division is applicable to the interpretation of a division in a legal sense, then with all due respect to the Honourable High Court, there was a division in the PDP. I recall that five state governors, substantial members of their state assemblies, 42 members of House of Representatives, a reasonable number of Senators and party leaders, walked away from what they called the old-PDP, to form what they called the new-PDP; because according to them, they had strong disagreement with the leadership of their old party.

But unless the judgment of Justice Ademola is upturned by the Court of Appeal, which the leadership of the House has wisely resorted to, the former PDP lawmakers who moved over to APC, may loose the protection offered by the proviso to section 68(1)(g). Interestingly here again, any declaration by the court that there was no division within the PDP may only trigger off the provision of section 68(2), as the constitution does not confer inherent powers on the courts, the authority to order the lawmakers to vacate their seats. Hence the hullaballoo over the alleged obiter, which later turned a ruse, that the court had ordered the 42 lawmakers to depart the national assembly forthwith, was of no moment.

By the provisions of section 68(2), it is the President of the Senate or the Speaker of the House, as the case may be, who shall give effect to the provisions of subsection (1); notably after presenting satisfactory evidence to the House concerned that that provision or any other in subsection (1) “has become applicable in respect of that member”. So while a judgment of a court could be satisfactory evidence, a pending appeal against such a judgment should be acceptable to the President of the Senate or the Speaker of the House of Representative, and the House concerned, that such judgment is not satisfactorily conclusive. After all, while an appeal does not operate as a stay strictly speaking, the Supreme Court has held that where parties are aware of the pendency of a suit, it behooves on them to await the outcome of the court’s intervention.

This should particularly be so, in the current dispute, which clearly has strong consequences on the political well-being of our country.

More so, as the reactions to the judgment have shown, what constitutes a division is an elastic proposition. That word is not definite and definitive, and its definition or application by any court is bound to lead to disagreements, especially among partisans. While Nigerians anxiously awaits the final legal definition of “a division in a political party”, by the Supreme Court, it is wise that the two Houses stay any further action that could torpedo the tranquility of the polity. After all, as the recent judgment in favour of the suspended Governor of Central Bank, Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, has shown, the notorious delay in the administration of justice in our country, does not apply to all litigants.

But with respect to the interpretation of section 68(1)(g); some interesting questions beg for answers. What will be the faith of the members who on the record moved over to the APC; but subsequently returned back to the PDP for whatever reasons? Will they be absolved of the consequences of their initial movement, or will it be interpreted that the movement never happened? With no provision in the constitution for the executive for the same ‘offence’, commonly referred to as cross-carpeting, has our constitution not shown remarkable double standards?

In my humble view, the provision of section 68(1)(g) requires amendment. The amendment should either exhaustively list what constitutes a division in a political party, or totally expunge that part of the proviso, to avoid putting our courts in a spot, over a matter that will definitely be adjudged by partisans as a political judgment; regardless of which ever way it goes. Again, unless we are in George Orwell’s Animal Farm, it is unfair to keep different standards for similar ‘political offences’.

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Tuesday, April 8, 2014

POLITICS

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TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 2014

THE NATION

E-mail:- politics@thenationonlineng.net

Many senators and House of Representatives members are eager to govern in their states. They have been setting up campaign structures and consulting stakeholders. Group Political Editor EMMANUEL OLADESU writes on the scheming, the permutations and the gale of endorsements, ahead of the 2015 elections.

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T is the season of ambitions and endorsements of aspirants. Posters and stickers adorn streets, public buildings, parks and vehicles, drawing attention to the aspirations of the contenders. Senators and House of Representatives members eyeing the State Houses now spend their weekends at their constituencies. At the grassroots, there is a revival of political activities.

Party supporters, cronies, and loyalists are warming up for a festival of choice and change. Partisan meetings are on across the 36 states. Many aspirants are engaging in clandestine activities to intimidate political opponents and convey real or imagined impressions of political superiority.

Crowds sing praises of the contenders. Traditional rulers, community leaders, women and youth groups, and clerics are mobilised to lend support. Across the six geo-political zones, there is a clash of ambitions.

Governors that are completing their two terms of eight years next year are not contemplating retirement. Many of them want to go to the Senate. Many senators and House of Representatives members are declaring their ambitions for governorship.

In the United States, senators will prefer to contest for the presidency, instead of returning to their states to vie for the governorship. The reverse is the case in Nigeria. In the Second Republic, two senators - Cornelius Adebayo (Kwara) and Don Etiebet (Cross River) -blazed the trail, when they became governors in 1983. There were also senators who expressed interest in the governorship at that time.

But, their ambition did not see the light of the day. In the old Ondo State, Senator Banji Akintoye, a Professor of History, contested against former Governor Adekunle Ajasin at the primaries in 1983. He lost. But, after the poll, the late Ajasin appointed him as the Commissioner for Health. In Lagos State, the late Senator Sikiru Shitta-Bey also indicated in the governorship. When the coast was not clear for him in the defunct Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN), he defected to the National Party of Nigeria (NPN).

In 1999, Senator Bola Tinubu became Lagos State governor. In 2007, Senators Tokunbo Afikuyomi and Musiliu Obanikoro unfolded their governorship aspirations. Afikuyomi made a feeble attempt in the All Nigerian Peoples Party (ANPP), following his defection from the Action Congress (AC). But, he retraced his step on the election day, emerging as the AC agent at the electoral commission’s office. Obanikoro, who contested on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). He lost to Mr. Babatunde Fashola (SAN). In 2003, Senator Rashidi Ladoja became the governor of Oyo State. Now, Senators Abiola Ajimobi (Oyo), Ibikunle Amosun (Ogun), and Liyel Imoke (Cross River) are governors. Last year, Senator Chris Ngige and Senator Chris Uba contested for the governorship in Anambra State. During the preparations for the primaries, Ngige’s rival was Senator Annie Okonkwo. Ngige is still in court challenging the victory of Governor Willy Obiano in court As preparations for the 2015 election hot up, many senators are warming up for the governorship. One of them is Senator Ganiyu Solomon, who represents the Lagos West District on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC). In Taraba State, Senator Joel Ikenya, who was a member of the National Assembly between 1999 and 2007, has also shown interest in

the days of political tribulation, she had hurriedly left the PDP for the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA).

She had indicated her interest in the Senate. But, the Women Leader, Dr. Kema Chikwe, and former Governor Ikedi Ohakim raised objection. Her main supporter then was the former Interior Minister, Emmanuel Iheanacho. Today, Anyanwu is back in the PDP. She has an ambition. She is competent. She has experience. But, there are certain odds against her aspiration. Chikwe, Ohakim and Iheanancho, and Iheodioha, who is from her district, are now in the race.

What chance does she has?

Solomon

• Okowa

• Solomon

• Abe

2015: Senators, for governor

the governorship. In Delta State, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa from the North District, has set up his campaign group.

He is itching to succeed Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan next year. Other National Assembly members eyeing the governorship include Senator Magnus Abe and Hon. Dakuku Peterside (Rivers), Senator Victor Ndoma-Egba (Cross River), Senator Ike Ekweremadu (Enugu), Speaker of the House of Representatives Hon. Aminu Tambuwal (Sokoto), his deputy, Emeka ikhedioa (Imo), Senator Olufemi Lanlehin (Oyo), Senator Teslim Folarin (Oyo), Hon. Akinlade (Ogun), and Hon. Opeyemi Bamidele (Ekiti).

A political scientist, Boniface Ayodele, explained why senators and other federal legislators are nursing governorship ambitions. He observed that age is still on their side, adding that they cannot contemplate political retirement. But, the Ekiti State University teacher pointed out that not all the National Assembly members are fit for governorship. He explained that some of them, who are professional politicians, have embraced politics as a career, instead of a vocation.

Ayodele argued that. while some aspirants perceive their next political office as a call to further service to the state, others perceive the corridor of power as an avenue for private accumulation. The former works hard to erect lasting legacies. The latter merely strives for relevance and pecks of office.

The political scientist also submitted that the quest for upward mobility may also translate into a situation whereby leaders are recycled. He explained African leaders are usually reluctant to leave power, pointing out that the 1999 Constitution, which specifies a definite tenure, is the saving grace for democracy. Ayodele alluded to what he described as the “cult of leadership”, which enjoys dominance and pre-eminence in the polity. He pointed out that the polity has now paled into a fiefdom dominated by these powerful figures, who are entrenched in the system. “Governors are so powerful and the President even courts them.

As chief executives, some governors are lords of manor. Therefore, senators aspire to become governors in their quest for executive powers”, he added.

Ekweremadu Senator Ike Ekweremadu is the Senate Deputy President. He is a governorship aspirant in Enugu State. He was tipped for the job in 2007, following the expiration of Governor Chimaroke Nnamani’s second term.

But, the political family, Ebano Group, opposed his candidature. What makes observers to believe that Ekweremadu still nurses the ambition is the array of projects he has commissioned in his constituency. Many people have benefitted from his Ikeoha Foundation. He has the financial muscle required for the contest. He is also close to Aso Rock.

But, the zoning arrangement may knock him out of the race.

Ekweremadu is from Enugu West like Governor Chime. The governor is has said that the slot would be zoned to the North. Ekweremadu has the financial muscle. The Deputy Senate President is acutely popular and influential in the Senate and his party, the PDP. Ekweremadu is not a bench warmer in the Upper Chamber. He has endowed his seat with visibility.

The senator has also attracted many projects to his district. Recently, he commissioned many of them and increased his empowerment programmes at the grassroots. However, the senator is not enjoying the support of the governor, Sullivan Chime, who is pushing for power shift to the North District. The senator and governor are from the West District.

Chime has repeatedly said that it will be unfair for his successor to come from the West because the zone would have enjoyed the slot for eight years when he bows out next year.

Eze Senator Ayogu Eze is from Enugu North. He is a journalist. People give him the respect due to an intellectual.

He is very sound. He is a good debater. But, the elite in Nsukka area perceive him as too ambitious and pompous. This may be due to envy or jealousy. The Senate President, Gen. David Mark, is fond of him. He refers to him as the ‘Enugu Government House’. Eze chairs the Senate Committee on Works. To many people, this is a big position. The unofficial decision of the party to zone the slot to the North is to the advantage of the senator, who also has the ears of the governor, the champion of the power shift agitation. But, the senator must move swiftly to reconcile himself with his educated rivals in the district. It is not certain that the Nwodo brothers are supporting his bid. The elite gang up against him is a big hurdle he must cross.

Abaribe Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe is from Abia South. He is the Chairman of the Committee on Media, Information and Publicity. He is rich and he can fund a state-wide campaign. He served as the deputy governor under former Governor Orji Kalu. He was shoved aside as the deputy governor in controversial circumstance. But, the tragedy has not diminished his stature and image. He fired on as a warrior, emerging later as a senator. Abaribe is warming up for the governorship at a time people feel that power should shift to the Ngwa stock, South District.

However, his kinsman, Emeka Nwogu, the Minister of Labour and Productivity, is also interested in the race. Also, his former boss, kalu, may still plot to abort his dream. Abaribe is always determined and his courage has always been his major source of strength. Therefore, party sources said that the minister may not be a threat to his ambition as he will stand shoulder to shoulder with him.

Anyanwu Veteran journalist Senator Chris Anyanwu is a household name in the country. She hails from Imo East, which she represents in the Senate. In

‘Governors are so powerful and the President even courts them. As chief executives, some governors are lords of manor. Therefore, senators aspire to become governors in their quest for executive powers’

Senator Ganiyu Solomon represents Lagos West District in the Senate. He declared his ambition to vie for the 2015 governorship election on the television, almost a year ago. He is the former Chairman of Mushin Council and member of House of Representatives. In 2007, former Lagos State Governor Tinubu opted out of the senatorial race and the ticket landed on Solomon’s palm. His ambition has caused a stir. Other aspirants who has not come out openly may have been relating to him as the number one rival. Solomon is not a baby politician in Lagos State. He has the network.

He is also rooted at the grassroots.

Many perceive him as a mobiliser and a close associate of Asiwaju Tinubu. This is not the first time Solomon has been eyeing the governorship. In 2007, he was among the 14 Alliance for Democracy (AD) aspirants itching to succeed Tinubu. His supporters have started canvassing for open primaries for the aspirants. In 2015, Solomon will slug it out with the House of Assembly Speaker Adeyemi Ikuforiji, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, Femi Gbajabiamila, and Senator Gbenga Ashafa - if they join the race.

Akinlade Abiodun Akinlade, a member of the House of Representatives from Yewa (Ogun West), has declared his ambition for the governorship. The former Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain became a legislator in 2011 on the platform of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN). He is now a chieftain of the APC. The federal legislator unfolded his plan to rule the Gateway State at a time Governor Amosun is seeking re-election. A chieftain of the APC in Ogun State, Otunba Deinde Banjo, said that Akinlade is joining the race without sparing a thought for the political developments in the state. He said that it will be difficult for him to defeat Amosun at the primaries because the governor has lived to expectation. The legislator has objected to this. He said he will perform better than the governor, if elected. Akinlade maintained that power should shift to Yewaland, claiming that no indigene of the old Egbado Division has occupied the State House. Sources said that he may defect to the LP to realise his ambition.

Lanlehin The senator representing Oyo South, Olufemi Lanlehin, is a lawyer and seasoned politician. He inherited political skills from his illustrious father, the late Pa. S.O. Lanlehin, one of the pioneer members of the Western Regional House of Assembly from •Continued on page 44

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THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 2014

POLITICS Alhaji Buba Shanu is the State Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Gombe State. In this interview with VINCENT OHONBAMU, he speaks on the party’s chances in 2015, and recent defections in the state.

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‘Dankwambo’s work speaks for itself’

OW prepared is the PDP for the 2015 general election in Gombe?

As you can see, the Peoples Democratic Party, both at the national level and in Gombe State, is taking this as a serious business. I say so because we have the political infrastructure in place to take care of the business.

If you look at our structure and activities, it is obvious that we are a serious party doing a serious business. At the national level, when the management of the PDP sneezes, Nigeria catches cold. This tells you that we are the party to beat. In Gombe State, we produced the last two governments from 2003 to date. And, if I may quote, His Excellency, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, during the economic summit here in December, said: “If every politician would act the way the Gombe State governor is acting, if every state is like Gombe State, there would be no problem in Nigeria”. This is because Gombe State exemplifies what democracy should be – the government of the people, for the people by the people. So, to sum it up, the PDP has never been readier because we take this as a serious business.

Considering that Senator Danjuma Goje has defected to the major opposition party, the APC, what are the chances of Governor Ibrahim Hassan Dankwambo remaining in office beyond May 29, 2015?

I know for certain he would be in office. The PDP is going to continue to rule Gombe State for quite a long time to come. As Jesus Christ once said: “By their fruits, ye shall know them.” What that means is that the product of a system characterises

what the system is. Yes, I agree, personalities make government. The last government in Gombe State was principally characterised by Alhaji Mohammed Danjuma Goje; he gave it direction and form. This one is given direction by Dr. Ibrahim Hassan Dankwambo and he characterises the system. If you’ve been following trends in Gombe, you’ll discover that they are governments of the same party, but have taken two different steams. The incumbent is a government of professionals, by professionals, for the people. Every one of us is a professional in his own right. I have two Masters Degrees. You would be surprised, if I give you the rundown of other party officials. At the executive council, virtually 70 per cent of those individuals came from different professional constituencies. But, in Goje’s government, there were executive council members who didn’t see the four walls of secondary school.

What, in your view, are the strengths of this government that would guarantee Dankwambo’s reelection?

It’s a government that is prudent.

We are accused of everything, but not stealing, killing, maiming, or coercion. We may be slow, but we are steady. We are not in a rush because we are sure footed. The government is moving step-by-step. This government is a government of people who are knowledgeable; it is a participatory government and everybody gets involved at his or her level. That way, it’s a government of Gombe people for themselves. If the people decide they no longer want this, they want the money to be shared; the money comes in and everybody gets his por-

‘As Jesus Christ once said: “By their fruits, ye shall know them.”

What that means is that the product of a system characterises what the system is’ • Dankwambo

tion, no problem. But, I know for sure that we have done our best. These four years are going to speak for us, not just today, but for a long time to come There were speculations recently that some PDP councillors defected to the APC. What is the true position of the matter?

I can tell you categorically that it is not true. It is not possible because, if you go back to our selection process, the PDP has a culture of obedience, particularly in Gombe State. Obedience is a child of faith. If you have faith and confidence in the system and then, you follow. In the process of selecting those who will ultimately contest as community leaders, the PDP management takes into cognisance loyalty, how long you have

stayed with the party, your contributions to the party, your personal standing with the community where you want to contest and other factors.

So, there is no way a serving councillor would leave the party. It’s like a crime has been committed – if they say Mr. Shanu killed somebody. The councillorship, I think, is one of the most serious responsibilities of elected representative of this country today. You want to leave the job and go to another party to contest for what, councillor again? It doesn’t make sense. If you say a former Councillor, I can understand that. Yes, he wants to be councillor again, but there is a better person in the community who is a councillor. So, he is going to another party to get a ticket.

Talking about defectors, we have

Senators for governor

•Continued from page 43

Ibadan and treasurer of the defunct Action Group (AG) led by the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo. In the Third Republic, he was a member of the House of Representatives. Between 1999 and 2002, he was Special Adviser on Political and Legislative Matters in Lagos State. Until last week, when the party leaders brokered peace between him and Governor Abiola Ajimobi, the senator was a serious contender for the governorship in the Oyo APC. In 2011, he was an aspirant. But he was prevailed upon by party leaders to step down for Ajimobi, who has been endorsed as the consensus candidate by the party. However, Lanlehin has not renounced his governorship ambition.

Okowa Senator Ifeanyi Okowa is a medical doctor from Delta North, a district that is mainly populated by Anioma people. The Aniomas have been agitating for power shift because they have not filled the slot before. Therefore, they are insisting that it is the turn of the district to produce the next governor. Power shift, Okowa explained, will give the people of Anioma a sense of pride and belonging. Besides, he said that power shift will foster equity and justice in the state. If this sentiment gains the sympathy of the other ethnic groups , then, Okowa has prospects as an aspirant. The senator is a former Secretary to the State Government. His constituents are impressed by his performance in the Upper Chamber, where he chairs the senate Committee on Health.

No fewer than 15 aspirants are in the race for the Delta State Government House. Five of them are holding political office. Leading the pack of the aspirants is the Minister of

Niger Delta Affairs, Godsday Orubebe, who hails from Delta South like Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan. It has been speculated that Orubebe was anointed by the Presidency to succeed the governor in 2015. But the Ijaw leader, Chief Edwin Clark, has kicked against the choice of Orubebe by President Jonathan. The rejection of Orubebe by Clark, who is perceived by many as the political godfather of the President, may make it difficult for Orubebe to achieve his governorship ambition.

The recent entry of the Special Adviser to the President on Performance, Monitoring and Evaluation, Professor Sylvester Monye, may have also affected Okonwa’s calculations. He is also from the Delta North. Sources said that prominent indigenes of Delta North are backing him. Among them • Ihedioha are the Minister of Finance and Coor- • Ekwemadu dinating Minister of the Economy, Dr Ningi Abe Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, and former Managing Director of United Bank of Senator Abdul Ningi represents Senator Magnus Abe is a successful Africa, Mr Tony Elumelu. Others in Bauchi Central in the Senate. Before the race are a member of House of politician from Rivers State. He has his elevation into the Senate, he was a Representatives, Hon. Festus served as a state legislator, Commismember of the House of RepresentaOkunbor, also from Delta North, Vicsioner for Information, Secretary to tives for eight years. His brilliant contor Ochei, and former Minister of State Government before taking his seat in tributions to House debate won him for Education, Kenneth Gbagi, a the Senate where he chairs the Petrothe respect of his fellow legislators. former Minister and the Speaker Delta leum (Downstream) Committee. He He was the Majority Leader of the House of Assembly. is from Ogoni. But, the Kalabaris also House during his tenure. As the Senwant to enjoy the slot after the tenure ate Deputy Majority Leader, Ningi is Gaya of the Ikwere man, Governor Rotimi very close to the Presidency and mainAmaechi, expires next year. Abe, a lawtains a good working relationship In Kano State Senator Kabiru Gaya, yer, is a man of honour and integrity. with the seat of power. The senator is who was the governor of the state in His committee investigated the oil subalso in the good book of Governor Isa the Third Republic, is staging a come sidy scandal in 2011. He did not soil his Yuguda. However, zoning may affect back. He is a serving senator and a hand. He is now a chieftain of the APC. his chance of becoming the governor. chieftain of the APC. Before the crisis in the Rivers State The people of Bauchi North SenatoPDP escalated, many members were rial District claim that it is their turn Kawu actually rooting for Senator Abe as to produce the governor. They argued the successor to Amaechi. His zone, that, since 1999, the zone has produced A member of the House of RepreOgoniland, has not produced any govthe governor. The last time that Bauchi sentatives, Abdulrahaman Kawu ernor. In fact, Amaechi is supporting North produced the governor was in power shift to this zone to correct the Sumaila, has been nursing governor1979 when the late Alhaji Tatari Ali ship ambition since 2011. He is also in imbalance in the power sharing. Howwas elected on the platform of the dethe APC. He was endorsed by some ever, it has been alleged that Mrs. Pafunct National Party of Nigeria (NPN). groups in the defunct ANPP last year. tience Jonathan, the wife of the Presi-

Senator Dajuma Goje here and others who defected with him? What is your view?

I can understand the case of any politician who does not hold any public office, who out of frustration or wanton quest for power or office decides to politically prostitute. The former Vice President wants to be the President at all cost. But, it’s prostitution for a politician who is elected under the auspices of a party by his people to go and represent them, only to cross-carpet out of personal interest without the mandate and consent of his people. My advice to them is to come back because he is using your mandate for personal gains. But, if it’s okay with you, fine.

If you are satisfied with what he has done, fine. But if out of ignorance you are not aware that you have an option, you are now aware. You decide the way you want to be represented, not the representative. It’s like religion; you don’t serve God the way you want, no. You serve him the way He should be served. So, we should not take these things for granted. My call for his people is that first, they should audit him. Why has he decided to change political party, is it because maybe he sees there are better people that probably might represent his people in 2015 and he is afraid he might not get the chance to contest, that is why he is running away, or has he committed some offence and he is like trying to take some insurance by moving to another party and maybe give conditions for returning? Or are there reasons why being in PDP cannot allow him to deliver the dividends of democracy to the people of Gombe central? dent, preferred her fellow Okrika man, Nyesom Wike, Minster of State for Education, for the job.

Abe’s choice was premised on his loyalty to the governor. He remains an ally of the governor during this turbulent period.

Uzodinma Senator Hope Uzodinma is from Imo West Senatorial district. He is a member of the Board of Trustees of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). He was the head of the special panel set up to investigate the leadership crisis in the Taraba PDP. He’s also a member of the National Reconciliation Committee of the PDP mandated to unite warring factions in the states. The law maker is also very close to the chairman of the PDP BoT Chairman, Chief Tony Anenih.

Ihedioha House of Representatives Deputy Speaker Emeka Ihedioha is warming up for the governorship race in Imo State. Ihedioha and Anyanwu are from the same zone and the implication is that they will share the votes from their senatorial district at the primaries.

Nwogu Senator Nkechi Nwogu is a woman with a heart of steel and stone. She wants to make history as the first woman to be elected governor.

Nwogu represents Abia Central in the Senate. She was a member of the House of Representatives. She was the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Banking in the Sixth Senate. Now, she chairs the Senate Committee on Gas.

Bamidele He is a member of the House of Representatives from Ekiti Central.

Bamidele defected to the Labour Party (LP) last year. He is now a governorship candidate in the Fountain of Knowledge.

HEALTH

THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 2014

45

THE NATION

E-mail:- health@thenationonlineng.net

With a state-of-the-art biotech plant, Fidson Healthcare Plc, an indigenous company, is set to obtain the World Health Organisation (WHO) prequalification to join the league of global pharmaceutical players in bulk supply. OYEYEMI GBENGA-MUSTAPHA writes.

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T aims to be a world leader in its field. Fidson Healthcare Plc has acquired 7.5 acres of land in Sango Otta, in Ogun State and a N7 billion bio-technology plant to realise its dream of playing in the big league in the pharmaceutical sector.

The biotech project machine cost the company N800 million, land and building, N200 million.

There are many reasons the company wants to ensure the success of the biotech plant. Majorly, it is to get the World Health Organisation (WHO) pre-qualification to take care of the needs of foreign pharmaceutical companies, which prefer to have their products made in Nigeria to enable them monitor the quality before distributing to other African countries.

During a media tour of the biotech plant, Fidson’s Operations Director Biola Adebayo said it would drive down prices of certain pharmaceutical products, which are in high demand and are overpriced.

But, this is not the first time Fidson has done that. The production of Virex Anti-retroviral for people living with HIV/AIDS, Adebayo said, was a huge success.

“That feat made the company the first healthcare company in West Africa and in sub-Saharan Africa to produce an Anti-retroviral drug which has been certified effective and safe for use by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC),” he said.

He continued: “Virex is known to be the affordable anti-retroviral drug available in the Nigerian market. We drove the price down by more than 75 per cent because only one pharmaceutical company had the monopoly of supplying the antiretroviral drugs used by persons living with HIV/AIDS, until Fidson Healthcare commenced its manufacturing. Virex has the capacity to prevent transmission of HIV from mother to child as it comes in five variants for children and adults.

“This breakthrough in the production of anti-retroviral drug is the inspiration behind our resolve to put our arsenal together to obtain the WHO-prequalification and with that the beginning of many good things to come from the company.”

Part of the goals the biotech plant will achieve is to also beat down the cost of infusion Adebayo said: “We have conducted a research and found that upon admission, patients always would require infusion, otherwise called drip so as to prevent their system from shutting down. Currently such are being manufactured by a few companies.

“About five per cent of the Nigerian population; representing those who are in the hospital, use the infusion. As such, the demand is very high and more than the supply.

With our new biotech plant, we intend to break this monopoly by injecting standards into the production, as well as driving down the price to make it more affordable, just like with the antiretroviral. Our corner piece on production is based on meeting three basic needs of affordability, availability and accessibility.”

“Another goal the biotech plant is set to meet is reversing the trend of importing 60 per cent of its products while the company produces the remaining 40 per cent locally.

We intend to reverse this trend by 2015, by manufacturing 60 per cent of our drugs locally and sourcing the remainder through importation. Indirectly, we would be creating job opportunities. Next to agri-

•Adebayo (left) explaining some points at the facility tour of the Biotech Plant at Sango-Otta, while Rangnath (second from right); Group Quality Manager, Mr Olayinka Amoo (right) and others watch.

Playing in the big league •Fidson aims for global honour culture, manufacturing is the second largest employer of labour; hence, by increasing local manufacturing, Fidson Healthcare will make more jobs available to Nigerians, while it will also be seen as being in tune with the transformation agenda of the government,” said Adebayo.

Already the plant has started attracting some multinational interests, as leading multinational pharmaceutical companies that command global attention have started visiting it to inspect and discuss areas of interest and collaborations.

Adebayo threw more light on this: “Some big global players in the pharmaceutical industry that once dominated Nigerian, West Africa and sub African markets, but left the nation’s shores have started contacting us. They are not interested in

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running cost. They only want to produce. So this plant is okay for them. Samples have been taken from our array of products both in the pharmaceutical and fast moving household products as anti-infective, anti-arthritis, endocrinology, gastro-intestine, antiretroviral, anti-malaria, cardiovascular, anti-depressant, pain relievers, haematinics, cough expectorants and consumer goods, for analyses by some of these multinationals and we got a pass mark, when their results were compared with ours.”

Adebayo said though it had been a painstaking effort, based on interest, “since the time we visited WHO to indicate our interest in obtaining its prequalification, it gave us insight on how it works”.

Glo unveils SMS-based service, to boost healthcare

telecommunication firm, Globacom, has unveiled Glo Medicare to boost health and general wellness in the country.

The service, which is SMS-based, is available to Glo subscribers wherever they are, provided they can receive GSM signal.

Subscribers to the service are provided with regular information on a wide range of health and wellness issues, including how to manage various diseases or health conditions and how to prevent them.

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providing motorable roads, light and the likes for our company.

Their sole interest is to see how we can manufacture their products for them bearing in mind the standard of quality of such products.

“Sanofi from France sent a team to us. The head of the delegation was overwhelmed by what he saw here. The team recommended us and already the company has sent a list of some of their drugs, which we can help produce, to us. We at the stage of fine-tuning cost of pricing, packaging and delivery. So also is Glaxo among others. A lot of those companies are coming back to West Africa because of this Biotech plant,” he said.

He continued: “They want to be spared the headache of setting up a manufacturing plant, tied with its

“That the organisation is run on donour fund and strictly work on what are budgeted for. So, when we invited it to come and inspect this plant, we were told there was no fund for such. NAFDAC stepped in and said it will pay for logistics.

NAFDAC went ahead to task some other companies to ginger up for WHO pre-qualification. So that when the team visits, it would be able to inspect all of us at once.

“The Consultants came and we passed all-documentation, production, but for facility. We are now under the radar of WHO. And that is why we are intensifying effort to get the facility completed and functional to international standard.

Facility carries about 20 per cent of the mark. The others are based on processes, documentation and system, areas which we are,” he said.

He added: “We are now putting this structure, which WHO prescribed. We are now number three on the radar watch of WHO in Nigeria. Our production lines are: infusion; tablets, injectables and intravenous fluids lines. Most of these lines are automatic, no human involvement, to eliminate contamination. Fidson wants to make Nigeria proud because it has paid its dues to all these international donour agencies. Yet Nigeria economy hardly benefits from such.

By obtaining this prequalification, Nigeria would reap its reward, economically, in foreign exchange (Forex), because every year, billions of US dollars worth of medicines are purchased by international procurement agencies for distribution in resource-limited countries.”

Prequalification, he said: is intended to give these agencies the choice of a wide range of quality medicines for bulk purchase. “So, should an indigenous company obtain such qualification the country would be far better for it,” he said.

The Lead Consultant, of the plant, Mr More Rangnath said WHO prequalification of medicines is a service provided by WHO to assess the quality, safety and efficacy of medicinal products. “I had been involved in setting up most of the plants that obtain that prequalification and this is no exemption in term of standard,” he said.

By Oyeyemi Gbenga-Mustapha

“This service was conceived with a view to making a strong positive contribution to sound health among Nigerians,” said Mr. Adeniyi Olukoya, Coordinator, Marketing for the firm.

He added: “We have taken some time to look at the areas to focus on that will be of immense help to the greatest of number of people. So we have no doubt that this service will benefit an over-

whelming number of our esteemed subscribers.”

Mr. Olukoya explained that subscribers would have the liberty of choosing specific areas they would like to receive information on from a menu, adding that subsequently, such subscribers would receive tips, advice and other information they can practically apply to their lives on a daily basis.

He said the advice dispensed to subscribers through Glo Medicare is grouped under broad topics such

as cancer info; diabetes info; pregnancy info and baby info. Others are first aid info, cholesterol info, toddler info, hypertension info and blood sugar info.

He said Glo subscribers can activate the service by sending the keyword “Menu” to 34001. He said the service costs N90 per month or N4 per day, depending on what the subscriber wants.

Mr. Olukoya said Globacom would continue to roll out innovative services aimed at adding value to the lives of Nigerians.

workshop based on the tool on the ground within NAFDAC .

He said regulation of drugs in developing countries such as Nigeria, Ghana and Sierra Leone was not in any way different from that of Canada and other developed countries, adding: “There is a system on ground which is followed”.

NAFDAC Director-General, Dr

Paul Orhii said there is the need for a stronger collaborative network to build confidence in the country’s regulatory system, especially on vaccine which can prevent many diseases.

He said collaborating internationally will enable the agency meet the rising challenge and risk posed to public safety by increased globalisation.

NAFDAC workers, others trained on vaccine regulation

ANADIAN drug regulatory agency Health Canada has trained some members of the staff of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) and their Ghanaian, Sierra Leonean, Nigerien and Ugandian counterparts on vaccine regulation.

Health Canada team led by a Senior Regulatory Officer, Bobby

By Wale Adepoju

Chauhan, said the capacity building was necessary to scale up regulation of vaccines in the respective countries.

He spoke at the Health Canada and NAFDAC mentorship training workshop in Lagos.

He said knowledge was transferred to the trainees during the

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THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 2014

HEALTH

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Lagos embraces genomic medicine

AGOS State is embracing genomic medicine to improve the treatment and diagnosis of diseases, the Commissioner for Health, Dr Jide Idris, has said.

Idris said genomic medicine has been found to accurately diagnose diseases and proffer cure to cancer, diabetes and kidney, among others, using smart drugs as done in developed countries.

He spoke at a workshop on Human Biodiversity Genome Project organised by the state. It was entitled: ”Preparing Lagos for entry into the new era of genomic medicine.”

Idris said genomic medicine studies the complex nature of genetic information responsible

Stories by Wale Adepoju

for forming the human being from conception and man’s ability to live and interact within the environment.

He said it was ripe for Lagos as a megacity with an estimated 21 million population to adopt the genomic therapy to tackle communicable and non-communicable diseases, which are increasing by the day.

“We can now know exactly what diseases we are likely to develop in our lifetime and take avertive actions. We will also know if we are likely to pass a genetic disorder to our children,” he added.

Idris said medicine is going to

a different level, as such the state should not be left behind, hence, the need to embrace genome medicine.

Idris said the therapy is still new in Nigeria and Africa at large, adding: “Advances have been made in genetics and genomic research. As genetic testing becomes more affordable, more people can benefit from understanding their genetic and use that understanding to improve their health and be mindful of the side effect of some drugs and avoid preventable deaths,” he said.

The medicine, he said, has improved the ability of government to find and prosecute criminals using forensic science

and DNA fingerprints.

Prof Akin Abayomi, who was the guest speaker, urged the state government to take ownership of research and development by tapping into the benefit of genome.

He said genome can reveal the diseases that an individual will be predisposed to in the future and address it to ensure longevity.

Abayomi said genomic medicine diagnosis is changing; treatment is getting smart as people are now able to demand personalised drugs suitable for their condition.

He urged the state to transfer the technology to the private sector to increase access.

• From left: Director, Government Relations, P&G Nigeria Temitope Iluyemi; Head, Dentistry Division, Federal Ministry of Health, Dr. Bimpe Adebiyi and Brand Operations and Integration Manager, Oral B Titi Adetunji at the Ministry of Health World Oral Health Day Conference in Abuja.

‘Wearing contact lenses can’t address low vision’

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PTOMETRISTS have said the use of corrective or contact lenses cannot address the problem of low vision.

They said people living with low vision can benefit from devices to enhance their residual vision, ensure their independence, self-esteem and social and economic relevance.

The experts spoke at the Nigerian Optometric Association (NOA), Lagos Branch Annual Conference entitled: “An update on low vision - What do you know?”

Consultant optometrist Dr Ngozi Musa said low vision may be as a result of congenital problems such as prenatal and postnatal trauma, genetic or developmental abnormalities.

Others are inherited problems such as retinitispmentosa or stargardt macular degeneration or acquired conditions like ocular infection or diseases, trauma or systematic disease.

Dr Musa said visually impaired children are often developmentally delayed in the area of gross and fine motor skills and perception.

“The inability to read standard-size print, to see the chalkboard or the computer or even

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to discriminate colour can have a significant impact on their educational development.

“The estimated 4.4 million visually impaired children across the world have no access to any form of education,” she added.

She described low vision as a loss of eyesight making daily tasks difficult, adding: “when vision cannot be improved or corrected with regular eyeglasses, medicine or surgery, then it is known as low vision”.

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with Dr Samuel Awosolu 08108155239 (SMS Only); email- samawosolu@yahoo.co.uk

Benefits of mouthwash

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MOUTHWASH is a liquid adjuvant in oral health care. It is taken into the mouth in small bits, preferably diluted with water, turned around and swirled around in the mouth.

It is gargled and spat away into the sink or waste removal. The mouth is rinsed afterwards. It could be used as a part of home dental hygiene routine. It acts as a detergent to loosen food debris from the tooth surfaces, thereby reducing the chances of the initiation of tooth decay.

The benefit of using mouthwash helps freshen the breath, removing the mouth odour associated with waking in the morning. Morning breath odour is a transient type of halitosis.

Halitosis is another name for Mouth odour/ Bad breath.

It is noteworthy that mouthwash contains an antiseptic- a substance that kills micro-organisms bacteria. However the mouth naturally contains bacteria, some of the bacteria whilst in the mouth do not cause any problems or disease, these can be referred to as good bacteria, others cause disease and are referred to as bad bacteria in the mouth. The downside is that the antibiotic in the mouthwash does not really discriminate between the good and the bad bacteria, it kills all bacteria.

The mouthwash has some side effects naturally , they contain in some cases alcohol, in which case may not be acceptable to some faiths. I mean some religions abhor consumption of alcohol in any form. Some formulations are made without adding alcohol. Alcohol containing formulations could also lead to dry oral mucosa. Mouthwash can cause dry mouth which could result in mouth odour. The dry mouth may be an invitation for the mouth to be repopulated by these bacteria.

Essentially bacteria need to stick to the teeth to cause dental caries, the dryness of the mouth will make it easier for bacteria to stick to the surface of the teeth, however when the teeth are moist it becomes much difficult for the bacteria to stick to the teeth.

When there is a severe gum disease, specially formulated and selected mouthwash will kill specific bacteria responsible. However the use of mouthwash should be done cautiously to avoid problems enumerated above.

Mouthwashes have varying composition, colours and flavours: Minty, fruity, strawberry, vanilla, etc.

Some are having indicators so as to be able to colour the food debris and make it visual so that it can be easily removed by mechanical methods including tooth-brushing, professional scaling and polishing done at the dentists.

Examples of mouthwash are Plax, chlorhexidine, corsodyl they are easily available at most chemists shops, pharmacies of repute as well as supermarkets.

She said people with low vision may find it difficult or impossible to accomplish activities such as reading, writing, shopping, watching television, driving a car or recognising faces.

Mothers, she said, should be observant and when their child turned six months old and ensure they get their first test conducted by a paediatric optometrist or an ophthalmologist.

“A child at that age should

be able to move the eye without moving the head and respond to stimulus. At three years every child should have an eye examination by that time he’s able to talk and move around see and identify colour and objects. Intellectually the child is developed. From then and every other year he should be examined. The eye turning is a sign of low vision and attention of expert should be sort in the event of that,” she said.

Department of GT Bank, Mr Pascal Or advised parents to have behavioural change toward autism.

Mr Or said children living with the disorder are special children who should be treated as such.

A psychiatrist with Integrated Psychological Consulting Services, Dr Angela Egbikuadje warned that autism should not be confused with witchcraft because it is a condition.

She enjoined parents to take their autistic children for consultation with medical experts, and not hide them at home.

A psychologist with Blazing Trails International Centre, Dr Lawrence Sutton, said the disorder is widespread in Nigeria,

adding: “In the United States one is found in 50 babies.”

He said early diagnosis and treatment would ensure that the developmental disabilities in them are controlled, thereby making it possible for the child to grow normally.

Consultant psychiatrist and psychotherapist, Dr Maymunah Yusuf Kadiri, said studies have shown that men’s age can be a factor why some children are born with the disorder.

She advised men to marry early to prevent having autistic babies, adding that people who live near air pollution can also be susceptible.

Dear reader, Firstly, you have forgotten to state your name, age and profession. Tooth extraction is a relatively painless procedure, thanks to the power of anaesthesia employed by dentists and medical personnel. Trained dentists routinely remove defaulted teeth using the local anaesthetic agent, this stops pain nerve impulses from being transmitted to and from the brain.

Tooth extraction is relatively a painless procedure. You are based in Abeokuta, which recently hosted the open session of the Nigerian Dental Association (NDA). There are a couple of facilities available in Abeokuta to cater for the extraction. To start with, there are at Abeokuta, the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) and the Government Dental Centre, Abeokuta. And I am aware that the first hospital in Nigeria, I stand to be corrected, the Sacred Heart Hospital has a dental clinic. And there are private dental clinics as well.

You may avail yourself some help by visiting one of these centres.

in the five local government areas about the benefits of the health initiative.

Some of the primary healthcare facilities visited during the outreach include the Oopeyeosa Primary Healthcare Centre, Oopoyeosa; Adifase Primary Healthcare Centre, Apata and Sango Primary Healthcare Centre, Sango.

Other areas where the outreaches are carried out and family planning services rendered to traders are Oje, Oranyan, Ayeye, Gbagi, Dugbe, Ogunpa/Gege, Agbowo, Beere, Eleyele and Sango in the state capital.

On the intervention of NURHI, one of its officials, Mrs Jumoke Adekogba, said the initiative, which is being

Experts call for more awareness on autism

XPERTS and key players in the health sector have called for more awareness on autism spectrum disorder (ASD), which is a lifelong developmental disability.

They said children living with the disorder could live through it if diagnosis and treatment are carried out early.

This was their summation at the Fourth GT Bank Autism programme in Lagos.

The condition, Executive Director, Blazing Trails International Centre, Dr Anna Lamikanra, said affects how a person communicates with and relates to other people.

Manager, Communication

DENTAL TALK

Letter and reply

D

EAR dentist, Many thanks for the column in The Nation newspaper, which I have been reading for some weeks now. I am sending this message from Abeokuta, Ogun State. I would like to know where I can have a painless extraction of my tooth.

The tooth is three quartre broken and the root seems to be pushing out of the gums.

More women adopt family planning methods

ORE women in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, are now using different family planning methods while managing their families’ health and social and economic wellbeing.

A survey of some primary healthcare centres in the city showed an appreciable increase in the number of

women embracing family planning methods.

This was made known during outreaches conducted by Nigerian Urban Reproductive Health Initiative (NURHI) at some markets, healthcare centres and a military barracks within five local government areas (LGAs) of the state.

The LGAs are Ibadan

By Oyeyemi GbengaMustapha

North, Ibadan South East, Ibadan North West, Ibadan North East and Ibadan South West. The five local councils were targetted by NURHI because they were considered as urban slums.

NURHI, has over the last four years, sensitised people

sponsored by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, focuses on promoting family planning methods in reducing maternal and child mortalities in the state.

“Apart from the area of mortalities, we also sensitise the women, including the men, of the benefits of having family planning.

THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 2014

47

THE NATION

BUSINESS AVIATION

How private jet licences are issued, by Fed Govt

T

HE Federal Government has unveiled the modalities for granting private jet operators’ licenses, denying skewing the process to favour its cronies.

The government denied that licenses were not given to qualified operators who met the stringent conditions, adding that it did not play politics with the process.

Spokesperson of aviation parastatals, Mr Yakubu Dati, told The Nation that air operators certificate were issued after meeting the stringent conditions, and not merely an exercise carried out to favour government cronies.

Dati said the era when licences and permits were issued to anybody was over.

He also denied that Air Operator Certificate (AOC) and licences for chartered operations were issued to loyalists of people in the government, saying only persons or organisations that met the requirements were given the approval to operate.

“Aviation is not an industry you just gate crash because of its capital-intensive nature and stringent safety and security requirement. So, even if you are a so-called ‘loyalist’, and you do not have substantive capital base, you cannot make headway in the aviation industry.

“Moreover, records show that in the past three years, not more than five companies were issued new AOCs. The aviation industry here is a small one, such that the players know one another,” he said.

Stories by Kelvin Osa-Okunbor Aviation Correspondent

He alleged that some charter operators had formed the habit of collecting foreign registered aircraft with foreign crew and would not pay them.

He said on several occasions, the Ministry of Aviation had to wade in to save the reputation of the Federal Government and the industry.

To save the country from further embarrassment, he said the Ministry of Aviation had to issue the directive that all foreign registered aircraft operating in the country’s airspace should re-register with the NCAA Dati also debunked the allegation that three directors-general of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) were changed within three years.

Dati’s clarification comes on the heels of insinuations by a former DC10 pilot with the defunct Nigeria Airways, Capt. Dan Omale, who accused the former Minister of Aviation, Princess Stella Oduah of bringing about instability in the sector through the removal of chief executive officers of the apex civil aviation body, Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).

He said: “Now a quick look at that statement shows that it is false. Dr Harold Demuren was the directorgeneral NCAA until 2012. Ms Oduah met him in that position and he continued in that office until 2012, when his statutory final year tenure ended.

No substantive director-general of NCAA was appointed until early last

2013, when Capt. Fola Akinkuotu was appointed director-general of NCAA by the president. So, where are the three directors-generals that were changed? As a matter of fact, Capt Akinkuotu, the second director general, was only recently removed.”

Dati alleged that some operators have resorted to media attacks because they were not allowed to operate foreign registered aircraft illegally in Nigeria, adding that such acts of impunity belongs to the past and would never happen again in the sector.

“One of the operators, which is unlicensed as a commercial carrier but operates commercial charter flights.

This is very dangerous under the radar activity which violates and downgrades the integrity pf the Nigerian aviation safety records.

Simply put, it is like operating kabu kabu service in the air,” Dati alleged.

The Aviation Parastatal spokesman also alleged that the company wanted to import foreign registered aircraft without due process and when he was stopped he heightened his media attacks at his real and imagined enemies.

“They just refused to submit to the five steps of obtaining AOC. This was the old order in civil aviation where aircraft from other jurisdiction are brought to the country and start operating.

“The clamp down by NCAA on these risky and illegal activities made some people to unleash attacks on those they believe stopped their illicit activities.”

AON: Why Nigeria must invest in hangar UNTIL Nigeria establishes its own aircraft Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility, it will not reap the benefits of such a facility, the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) has said.

AON Chairman Captain Nogie Meggison said setting up a national carrier alone would not hasten the development of the sector, adding that hangars have the capacity to create jobs and retain money that indigenous carriers spent on the repairs of their aircraft abroad.

Capt. Meggisson, who is also President, JedAir, said the setting up of the facility would assist in the training of professionals in the country, including aircraft engineers.

He said the government’s policy of granting multiple entry points to foreign carriers into Nigeria has contributed to the stunted growth of indigenous airlines.

Meggison said the unfriendly business environment where operators grapple with multiple charges has not accelerated the process that would lead to private sector players showing interest in setting up aircraft repair centres.

He said if some of the intervention fund by the government was channelled into the establishment of aircraft repairs facility, the industry would have made some progress. “ I don’t think the national carrier is the issue. Our policies are the issue. We had a national carrier in the defunct Nigeria Airways. One of the main issue was not being able to pay for its maintenance bills of airplanes scattered all over the world including Brazil, Ireland, Germany, France, USA, and Israel.

“If you have a national carrier and you don’t exercise the Cabotage Law or the Fifth Freedom Right of the Chicago Convention of 1945, we are putting water down the drain. If you have a national carrier and you don’t have MRO, you are putting water down the drain,” he added.

Etihad Airways connects Jaipur ETIHAD Airways has started daily flights between Jaipur and Abu Dhabi.

A traditional lamp lighting greeted the disembarking passengers at Jaipur to celebrate the new service and the airline’s tenth destination in India.

Etihad Airways’ Regional General Manager-Asia Pacific North and Indian Subcontinent, Craig Thomas, said: “The addition of the Jaipur service reinforces Etihad Airways’ commitment to the Indian Subcontinent. We are confident that the newflights will continue the strong passenger growth between Indiaand the UAE. “The new service will provide travellers from Jaipur with seamless connections to the Gulf region and Middle East, as well as Africa, Europe and North America, via our Abu Dhabi hub.”

General Manager, India, Etihad Airways, Neerja Bhatia, said:”Jaipur is the perfect addition to our growing network of destinations.

“Jaipur is a widely recognised premium destination attracting leisure and businesstravellers from around the world. It also known for hosting manyinternationalcultural events,including the renowned Jaipur Literature Festival.

“With the addition of the new Jaipur flights,to our existing Delhi services, we now fly to two destinations in the world-renowned Golden Triangle, offering our guests more choice and convenient travel options.”

Delta introduces sleep kits

•From left: Capt. Ayodele Sasegbon, Director, General Aviation, NCAA, Adeyileka, and Director of Finance Accounts Alhaji Nuhu Ozigi during the visit of the US FAA inspection team.

PHOTO: ISAAC JIMOH AYODELE

Category One: Nigeria knows fate soon

T

HE four-man team of inspectors from the United States Federal Aviation Administration (US FAA), has concluded its safety audit of the re- certification of Nigeria.

The team has advised NCAA to improve its civil aviation regulations and training of its technical personnel.

The team, according to the Acting Director-General of Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority ( NCAA), Benedict Adeyileka, will submit its report to a higher authority that will release the report of the re-certification audit in the next 10 days.

Adeyileka said there was nothing to worry about the audit, as some of the issues raised by the team on some critical elements were known to the NCAA .

•US inspectors end visit The NCAA , he said had looked at the training of NCAA personnel, which he said is a going concern that the authority continues to address.

He said the team picked issues with administrative non-compliance, which is being addressed at different levels .

Adeyileka said the NCAA would work on debriefing the issues noted in the audit to ensure that everything works in line with the regulations of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO).

He said he could not categorically declare whether Nigeria would retain the category one safety rating , as it does not rest with the NCAA, but other authorities that will look at the report.

The team, he said, looked at all

issues bordering on the issuing of air operators’ certificate, the operations of domestic airlines and other issues .

Adeyileka said despite the volume of work carried out by the team, it is still not safe to be talking about retention of category one safety rating.

He said: “It was a whole week of hard work. The US FAA team carried out audit on all aspects of our operations, and we can assure that having looked at the eight critical elements considered during during the audit, there is really nothing to worry about.

“The team looked at all issues raised in the media about the NCAA , and they were very surprised that the only area of concern is administrative non compliance.”

DELTA Air Lines has introduced new sleep kits and vrious updated amenities for passengers seated in the economy cabin on long-haul international flights. Sleep kits will be offered to customers by flight attendants and will include individual eyeshades plus earplugs to help customers get better rest when travelling between continents.

In addition, on all trans-Atlantic flights of 3,850 miles or less from the United States to Europe, customers in the Economy cabin will receive a full-size bottle of water following meal service and updated snack offerings for morning and afternoon/evening arrivals. A midflight ice cream service will also be offered on these flights returning from Europe to the U.S. These service improvements will expand to longer-haul international flights in early summer.

This summer, customers flying in domestic First Class as well as the Economy cabin on domestic and international flights will be offered newly upgraded earbuds that will be theirs to keep for use with Delta’s seatback entertainment systems. Delta is the only U.S. carrier to offer personal, on demand entertainment at every seat on all long-haul, international flights.

NAHCO endows chair at Bayero varsity NAHCO aviance has endowed a professorial chair in Aviation Economics at the Bayero University, Kano.

The endowment would enable the Chair carry out research in Aviation Economics in particular and the industry generally.

Speaking at the event in Kano,the Chairman of the company, Alhaji Suleman Yahyah, pointed out that Kano deserved such an honour being the first city to receive an aircraft in Nigeria as far back as 1930s.

An elated Vice Chancellor of the university, ProfAbubakar Rasheed, said that the money coming with the research would create an impact in the transport economy in such a way that after five years of the endowment, the department would have acquired enough competence by training some candidates, including doctorate students in Transport Economy or holding yeartly conference in Transport Economy and publishing its outcome and circulating them widely.

THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 2014

48

THE NATION

BUSINESS T

MARITIME

HE Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has up till June to get it right with the PreArrival Assessment Report (PAAR) under which goods are expected to be cleared in six hours, The Nation has learnt.

NCS was given the ultimatum because the Federal Government is worried by what it perceives as the slow pace of the process, sources said.

The government, a source said, is worried that there are over 9,000 PAAR documents belonging to importers at many commercial banks in Lagos yet to be delivered by the Customs.

PAAR encompasses information about a cargo, its country of origin and the value of goods imported.

At a town hall meeting to kick-off the scheme last year, the Comptroller-General of Customs, Alhaji Dikko Abdullahi, assured importers that they would clear their consignments in less than six hours. He said the first PAAR with reference number CN20130017589/001 was issued by Customs within 58 minutes.

But the Coordinating Minister of the Economy and Minister of Finance, Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, and the Minister of Transport, Senator Idris Umar, a source said, are not happy that payment of import duty has become a major challenge to many importers under the scheme.

This has fueled speculations that the government may ask the former service providers to return if the Customs fails to use PAAR, which is also known as Destination Inspection (DI), to facilitate trade at the ports in the next three months.

In anticipation of the government’s move, the Customs uploaded a new platform last week to resolve the PAAR crisis.

Our souce said part of the PAAR challenge was caused by the Customs because of what was described as “inconsistency” in its billing system. Some importers reportedly complained to Dr Okonjo-Iweala that they were initially asked to pay N1million for their cargoes, only for the Customs to raise it to N20 million.

This, it was learnt, has made the finance ministry to have a rethink on the Customs’ ability to issue PAAR within an hour.

The source said many of the yet-to-becleared cargoes at the ports do not have PAARs with which the banks could work.

The government, the source said, is also aware that over 7,000 containers imported between December and February this year, are at some terminals in Lagos, awaiting the issuing of PAAR. The government is concerned that the volume of uncleared containers may rise if the Customs fails to come out with a plan on how best to manage the crisis.

But, the Customs is denying responsibility for the crisis, accusing those clamouring for the service providers’ return as having something to hide.

Customs National Publicity Officer Mr Wale Adeniyi wondered why the importers who have not utilised thousands of PAARs issued to them between January and March were complaining of not having the document.

He said: “Customs is also not happy that

e-mail: maritime@thenationonlineng.net

Customs gets June ultimatum on destination inspection

• 9,000 uncleared PAAR documents in banks • ‘It’s a ploy to bring back ex-service providers’

• Dr Okonjo-Iweala

Senator Umar

•Abdullahi

•Shittu

Stories by Oluwakemi Dauda Maritime Correspondent

we have several thousands of PAARs that we have issued and have not been utilised.

Who are the owners of these PAARs? Some of them were issued in January, some in February and they have not been utilised.

May be the owners are part of those calling for the extension of the provisional-

release of their cargoes, or those calling for the reinstatement of the service providers.”

He said the job of the service providers, which lasted for eight years was to build, operate and transfer to the Customs.

“If these people did it for eight years and we have just done it for four months and they are complaining, how are we sure of what will happen in six months, or more? he asked.

Adeniyi said the Customs record showed that there is an improvement in the number of PAARs issued daily.

“Statistics doesn’t lie. When we started, we were doing in the region of 200 and 500 per day. Now, we have done over 1,700 and on March 26, we did 1,900. Our statistics showed that there is an increase in the number of PAARs we are generating,” he said.

The problem the Customs is facing, Adeniyi said, is with the initial platform it was using. He said it had a problem with the platform because it was slow to transmit finished PAARs. But the platform, according to him, has since been upgraded and things are now moving faster. The banks, he said, were now responsible for data capturing because the importers pay for the service, adding that the banks have employed more people to hasten the process.

On errors in the amount to be paid by importers, he said the Customs has established an error resolution centre in Abuja to resolve the problem.

“They are not unusual things. When they happen, they are resolved,” he said.

On the huge number of uncleared containers at the ports, Adeniyi said the Customs, in a few days, would take an inventory of containers with PAAR to ascertain their contents, warning that if the containers contain prohibited items, the importers would pay for it.

But a clearing agent, Mr Segun Ogunsanu, said they were groaning under demurrages that had accrued on their consignments because of the failure of Customs to generate PAAR on time.

Director-General of Nigerian Chambers of Shipping (NCS) Mrs Ify Akerele urged the Customs to abolish PAAR so that there would be smooth clearance of cargoes at the ports.

“I am only being realistic about the situation on ground, because PAAR cannot work except you put the experts on ground to handle it,” she said.

The President, Association of Registered Freight Forwarders of Nigeria (AREFFN), Dr. Frank Ukoh, said many of the documents needed for issuing PAAR were not generated, adding that new ones are coming in and piling up, leading to congestion at the ports.

The President, Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA), Prince Olayiwola Shittu, said his association was aware of the problems created by PAAR. He said he knew that the Customs had come up with a new platform to tackle the issue.

“I know the Comptroller-General of Customs and the Ministry of Finance are working assiduously to clear all the backlog of PAARs. Customs has introduced a new platform to address the challenges but how effective the new platform would be is what I don’t know,” Shittu said.

Operators allege diversion of 150 shiploads of rice

T

HE Seaport Terminal Operators Association of Nigeria (STOAN) has raised the alarm over the continuous diversion of shiploads of rice to the ports of neighbouring countries.

Its Chairman, Princess Vicky Haastrup, said in Lagos that no fewer than 150 shiploads of rice had been diverted to the ports in Benin Republic, Cameroon, Accra and Togo in the first quarter of the year.

She said Nigeria lost about 600,000 metric tonnes of rice between January and March 2014 to the neighbouring ports due to the 110 per cent policy slammed on the commodity by the Federal Government early last year.

“This is becoming rather unfortunate. Our economy is bleeding seriously because of this policy.

The loss to other countries, as a result of the high tariff on rice was

over N300 billion last year while in the first quarter of this year alone, both the government and private operators have lost at least N80 billion.

“Even the Federal Government through the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mrs. Ngozi OkonjoIweala, admitted the shortcoming of this policy. The truth is that the policy has done more harm than good to our economy and government should waste no further time before reversing it,” Princess Haastrup stated.

According to her, revenues affected by the 110 per cent rice policy include those of the Nigeria Customs Service, terminal operators, dock workers and the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA).

She disagreed with those who blame Customs for the high rate

of smuggling of rice into Nigeria.

“It is totally wrong to blame Customs. Customs is doing its very best under the circumstance to check the smuggling of rice into the country and that can be seen from the numerous seizures they make every day.

“The fact of the matter is that the policy cannot work. Even if you place heavily armed Customs officers in every corner of our borders, it won’t stop smuggling. It is a fact that local production cannot match local demand which creates a recipe for smuggling.

There is a lot of pressure on Customs because the quantity of rice manufactured locally can only satisfy 30 per cent of local demand. It is easy to point accusing fingers but I believe Customs officers are giving their best.

“And don’t forget that our neigh-

bouring countries are profiting from the policy by dropping their own tariffs on rice and because they are benefitting, they give tacit support to these smugglers,” the

STOAN Chairman said.

She said the 110 per cent policy will not encourage local production but rather stifle it due to the high rate of smuggling.

‘Lagos terminal is West Africa’s largest’

T

HE APM Terminals Apapa, Lagos is the largest and best equipped terminal in West Africa its Chief Commercial Officer, Mr Neil Fletcher, has said.

He told The Nation that the terminal is a multi-use facility which can accommodate 10 shipping lines at a time.

He said the terminal was fully ISPS compliant and the first container terminal to introduce RTGs (Rubber Tyre Gantry Cranes) operations in the country.

Fletcher said when APM Terminals took over operation of the

Apapa container terminal in 2006, vessel waiting time was up to 30 days while the container yard was waterlogged and filled with debris.

He said eight years into the port concession, the condition of the terminal has improved with average berth productivity elevated to 30 moves per hour; average crane productivity at 15 moves per hour and monthly average throughput at 50,000 TEUs. He said the throughput capacity of the terminal was one million TEUs while average vessel waiting time is less than one day.

49

TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 2014

THE NATION

BUSINESS ENERGY

E-mail:- energy@thenationonlineng.net

Presidency intervenes in IPMAN leadership crisis

•Ex-president accused of contempt as deputy takes over • NUPENG reopens NIPCO depot

R

ATHER than abate, the leadership crisis rocking the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) is deepening. Its president, Alhaji Aminu Abdulkadir, has declined to hand over to Chief Lawson Obasi as directed by Justice Lambo Akanbi of the Federal High Court in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital.

Instead, Abdulkadir handed over to his deputy Mr Chinedu Okoronkwo.

Abdulkadir has appealed the judgment while Obasi has initiated contempt proceedings against him for not complying with the verdict.

Last week, The Nation learnt a stakeholders meeting was summoned by the Managing Director of the Products and Pipeline Marketing Company (PPMC), Prince Haruna Momoh, on the Presidency’s directive to resolve the rift to forestall any future fuel scarcity.

PPMC it was learnt, urged Abdulkadir to obey the court order to ensure the organisation’s smooth running and prevent disruption of products supply.

Shortly before the meeting, a bai-

By Emeka Ugwuanyi

liff was said to have issued Form 48 (Notice of Contempt of court) on Abdulkadir for allegelly illegally parading himself as IPMAN president against.

Abdulkadir’s purported refusal to obey the order led the Nigerian Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) to close NIPCO’s depot (the business venture of IPMAN). NUPENG insisted that unless Abdulkadir steps aside, the depot would not be reopened.

The depot, which was reopened at the weekend after the intervention of the Presidency, State Security Service (SSS) and the National Assembly, was shut for over 10 days.

When contacted, the Chief of Staff to Obasi, Chief Chinedu Ukadike, said the Form 48 was to let Abdulkadir know that he is in contempt of court.

Ukadike explained that Chinedu Okoronkwo is neither qualified to be IPMAN president nor empowered to conduct elections.

He noted that Okoronkwo has a case pending before a Port Harcourt High Court, adding that IPMAN has a succession rule, which Abdulkadir and his officers

violated. Abdulkadir he said became the president from the position of secretary against stipulated guidelines.

He said Obasi and his executive met during the weekend with all the national officials and he urged members to shun strike to ensure steady fuel supply nationwide.

The Nation also gathered that 70 per cent of the executive members of the Aminu-led IPMAN are in discussion with the new leadership on how to share executive positions harmoniously.

But, Okoronkwo dismissed Ukadike’s claim as baseless.

Okoronkwo insisted that he is IPMAN President, adding that Ukadike was wrong because Abdulkadir has appealed the judg-

By Emeka Ugwuanyi

marketer’s cylinder will have a different colour and code to enable traceability when there is an issue.

He said: “The recent explosion in Abuja was caused by a filling tank. Apparently, the filling tank was located in a place where there was not enough care taken to ensure that fire and inflammable materials were kept away from the gas. That informed the need for us to begin the process of introducing a new policy for LPG use in Nigeria.

“The new system that we just introduced will enable us to have a better control of LPG cylinder and not just about the cylinder but also in the whole value chain including the gas, valves and other accessories. It is a whole gamut of activities that we are reviewing in name of a new policy of use of LPG in Nigeria.

He said the Council of SON would be considering a new standard for LPG today. The gas that goes into LPG is a mixture of propane and butane and one of them is highly flammable and Nigeria has been operating a 70:30 per cent butane, propane policy. But it appears also that some people outside of Nigeria are beginning to introduce some other kind of combination, which we have already discussed through a technical committee “The SON council will now consider the final report of the recommendations and hopefully on that day approve it. Once it is approved, we will go ahead and en-

will only be solved by IPMAN and not the court. Abdulkadir has appealed the judgment and Obasi should wait for the judgment of the Appeal Court, I am working with my executives to ensure that normalcy returns as soon as possible,” he said Obasi was the Vice President of Alhaji Musa Felande who took over from Olatunde Runsewe following the expiration of his (Runsewe) tenure. But, instead of Obasi being made the president in line with IPMAN’s constitution, Abdulkadir was made president from his position as secretary.

E

•New gas policy for approval today

T

•Obasi

ment.

He said Obasi and his group should wait for the outcome of the appeal, adding: “It is a simple matter. The case is still subsisting in court. The problem of IPMAN

‘IPMAN has a succession rule, which Abdulkadir and his officers violated.

Abdulkadir he said became the president from the position of secretary against stipulated guidelines’

SON: consumers no longer to own cylinders HE Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) has introduced a policy to guarantee safer use of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). It is also to monitor the ownership of cylinders to ensure standards.

SON Director-General, Dr. Joseph Odumodu, said in Lagos that the new policy, which comes into operation in June, would address other issues in the value chain, including the gas, valves and other accessories. He said it had become imperative for the regulator to ensure strict compliance with industry standards by players to promote safety.

He said the gas explosion in Abuja called for immediate implementation of the policy, noting that some cylinders that had expired are still in use because most people do not bother to check them. Odumodu said: “With the new policy, individuals will not own cylinders. Marketers and dealers will own cylinders and each marketer, or dealer will have specific code. Individuals will take their cylinders, pay a token as deposit and get the new certified and quality one and when a consumer wants to change to another dealer, or marketer, the person would collect his deposit and move to where he likes.

The importance of this, Odumodu explained, is to enable SON trace source of any problem whenever there is one, and to hold somebody responsible. The marketers licensed by the Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR) will own cylinders and each

•Abdulkadir

•Odumodu

force a new standard. Last year there were issues around certain kinds of cooking gases in circulation in Nigeria, which necessitated a meeting of all the industry players including the NNPC, marketers, consumers, SON, DPR and others meant for the stakeholders to agree on a new standard taking into consideration what obtains in other parts of the world.”

“In the new system, individuals will no longer own cylinders.

The cylinders will be owned by marketers who already have been licensed by DPR. The cylinders will be differentiated in colours and will have different codes. The reason for this is that we need to hold somebody responsible any time there is a challenge. The marketers will have the responsibility for recertification or what we call technical requalification of cylinders. For instance, if a consumer has a cylinder that has expired, when he takes the cylinder for refilling, the marketer will take it through a process of requalification, if it fails, the marketer will withdraw the cylinder, and give the customer a new one. The customer has to make a token deposit,” he added.

Bonga project’ll enhance exploration, say oil chiefs

XPLORATION will be enhanced, if Shell Petroleum Development Corporation (SPDC) fulfils its promise to get Bonga South West Project ready this year, stakeholders have said.

The Chief Executive officer, ARCON Petroleum Limited, Doyin Adeyinka, the Marketing Director, Olive Crest Resources Service Limited, Dr Alex Orewa, and Vice President, Nigeria-Gabon Shell Upstream International, Markus Droll, said the project would provide opportunities to the industry and the economy.

Adeyinka described the Bonga South West Project as a world-class facility, capable of boosting exploration. He said the project is an extension of Shell’s exploration activities, adding that completing it this year would help in increasing deep offshore programmes.

He said: ‘’Though I do not know the quality of the project, it is bound to galvanise exploration and production initiatives in the industry in general, and the economy in particular. Bonga project itself is a big one, and can be extended to any area provided there is oil there to improve activities at the deep-side level of petroleum exploration. ‘’ Orewa said the International Oil Companies (IOCs) are still interested in investing in Nigeria, as evident by the decision of Shell to expand its Bonga oil project.

IOCs, Orewa said, were only divesting from on-shore projects and not deep off-shore activities where they

By Akinola Ajibade

hope to maximally improve their fortunes.

He said: “By completing Bonga Southwest Project by 2014 end, Shell would have more access to export its product. This would depend on whether the product is for export, or not. This is a demonstration of the fact that Shell wants to continue to invest in Nigeria, despite the challenges facing the industry. ‘’ The oil majors are not yet done with Nigeria in terms of exploring investmentopportunities, galvanising them to expand the production base and other indices that would spur growth. They want the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB) to be passed to know the next line of action. PIB will help them in knowing the rules of the game and how best they can apply the rules for growth. Through BIP, the foreignowned oil firms would know what and how to meet the needs of the oil producing communities and other issues.’’

Droll said the company will continue drilling projects on the Original Bonga FPSO, adding that Bonga South West Project is a new addition. Droll said the initiative would generate returns for the partners and the government in the long run.

He said the Bonga initiative is of immense value to the company, industry and the country, arguing the firm ‘s desire to contribute to oil exploration in countries where it has major presence.

‘The oil majors are not yet done with Nigeria in terms of exploring investmentopportunities, galvanising them to expand the production base and other indices that would spur growth’

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THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 2014

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53

MONEYLINK

BOFIA Act: Banks to report loans, assets to CBN monthly Stories by Collins Nweze

HE Bank and Other Financial Institutions (BOFIA) Act has mandated banks to report their advances (loans) and assets to the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) monthly.

The BOFIA Act, which was yesterday sent to banks and other financial institutions for guidance said banks, should submit a statement showing the assets and liabilities of the bank to the CBN not later than 28 days after the last day of every month or such

other interval as may be specified.

A circular by the apex bank to this effect reads in part: “This Act gives effect to the revised Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004 made under the authority of the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice.”

Also to be included is an analysis of advances and other assets, at its head office and branches in and outside Nigeria in such form as the bank may specify from time to time.

grew to N206.7 billion from N206.4 billion in 2012. Similarly, the bank recorded an improvement in its cost of funds from 4.5 per cent to 4.6 per cent while Non-Performing Loans (NPL) ratio decreased to 2.7 per cent from five per cent which is owed to

the bank’s enhanced risk management framework.

Group Managing Director, Herbert Wigwe said: “Access Bank’s 2013 earnings were impacted by several regulatory changes in the Nigerian banking sector.”

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• CBN Acting Governor Sarah Alade

Access Bank’s profit drops to N44.9b

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CCESS Bank has posted a profit before tax (PBT) of N44.9 billion for the year ended December 31, 2013. The result represents a decrease of 3.4 per cent compared to the N46 billion recorded for the corresponding period in 2012.

The lender attributed the decline to regulatory changes in the operating environment, some of which include raising of the cash reserve requirements (CRR) on public sector deposits to 50 per cent from 12 per cent, reduction and removal of a number of fee income lines, such as Automated Teller Machine and Commission on Turnover charges as well as the increase in Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) levy from 0.3 per cent to 0.5 per cent, among others.

An analysis of the results released on the floor of the Nigerian Stock Exchange yesterday showed an increase in the bank’s deposit base from N1.201 trillion N1.33 trillion, an 11 per cent growth over last year’s figure.

The bank’s loan book rose by 33 per cent, from N609 billion to N810 billion, demonstrating its resolve to empowering critical sectors of the economy.

A glance through the numbers also revealed that the bank’s earnings

Ecobank donates two vans to PPMC

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COBANK Nigeria has donated two Hilux Vans worth several millions of naira to Pipelines and Product Marketing Company (PPMC), Warri, a subsidiary of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC); to support its fight against pipeline vandalisation in the Niger Delta region.

Speaking at the presentation ceremony in Warri, Delta State, at the weekend, the Managing Director, Ecobank Nigeria, Mr. Jibril Aku, said the negative impact of pipeline vandals on Nigerians and the economy is quite enormous, stressing the need for sustained efforts to stem their growing activities.

Aku, who was represented by the Executive Director, Southsouth/ Southeast, Mr. Kingsley Umadia, said “Vandalism is unacceptable.

People suffer unduly during fuel crisis and same with the economy.

Tenor

Amount N

Rate %

M/Date

3-Year 5-Year

35m 35m

11.039 12.23

19-05-2014 18-05-2016

We will continue to do whatever we can to support PPMC in this fight.”

He reiterated that the donation is in line with the bank’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) policy to contribute and make meaningful impact in its host environment, adding that, the bank will continue to support initiatives that affect people’s lives.

Aku, who lauded the mutual relationship that has existed between the bank and PPMC over the years, used the opportunity to explain the pan African vision and objectives of the bank and the several CSR initiatives.

In his address, the Managing Director, PPMC, Mr. Haruna Momoh, expressed gratitude to Ecobank for the donation, stating that, it would go a long way to assisting the company in pipeline surveillance and repairs on timely basis.

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Sterling Bank to support youth entrepreneurship

NIDF

OBB Rate

DATA BANK Amount Amount Offered ($) Demanded ($) 400m 400m 400m 400m 400m 400m

Price Loss 2754.67

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

Amount 30m 46.7m

Rate % 10.96 9.62

Date 28-04-2012 “

UBCAP LIVESTOCK HONYFLOUR TRANSEXPR NPFMCRFBK UTC PRESTIGE COURTVILLE OASISINS WEMABANK

O/PRICE

C/PRICE

2.45 3.08 3.50 2.36 0.93 0.51 0.56 0.57 0.58 0.93

2.57 3.23 3.67 2.47 0.97 0.53 0.58 0.59 0.60 0.96

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

Year Start Offer

Current Before

C u r r e n t CUV Start After %

147.6000 239.4810 212.4997

149.7100 244.0123 207.9023

150.7100 245.6422 209.2910

-2.11 -2.57 -1.51

149.7450

154.0000

154.3000

-3.04

152.0000

153.0000

155.5000

-2.30

CHANGE 0.12 0.15 0.17 0.11 0.04 0.02 0.02 0.02 0.02 0.03

DISCOUNT WINDOWx Feb. ’11

July ’11

July ’12

MPR

6.50%

6.50%

12%

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

8.50% 4.50% 25.00% 1.00%

8.50% 4.50% 25.00% 2.00%

9.50% 5.50% 30.00% 2.00%

LOSERS AS AT 07-04-14

SYMBOL

O/PRICE

DANGSUGAR INTENEGINS ACCESS MAYBAKER UAC-PROP CUTIX WAPIC LEARNAFRCA STANBIC NAHCO

9.60 0.61 7.70 1.90 25.16 1.88 0.75 1.94 20.03 5.22

C/PRICE 9.03 0.58 7.33 1.81 24.00 1.80 0.72 1.87 19.40 5.08

NIBOR Tenor 7 Days 30 Days 60 Days

Rate (Previous) 4 Mar, 2012 9.0417 9.6667 11.2917

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

Exchange Rate (N) 155.75 155.8 155.7

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

CAPITAL MARKET INDEX

NSE

6-2-14

28-10-11

% Change

CAP Index

N13.07tr 40,766.16

N6.617tr 20,903.16

-1.44% -1.44%

MEMORANDUM QUOTATIONS Offer Price

AFRINVEST W.A. EQUITY FUND 158.93 ARM AGGRESSIVE GROWTH 9.17 BGL NUBIAN FUND 1.07 BGL SAPPHIRE FUND 1.17 CANARY GROWTH FUND 0.68 CONTINENTAL UNIT TRUST 1.39 CORAL INCOME FUND 1,628.00 FBN FIXED INCOME FUND 1,090.40 FBN HERITAGE FUND 114.02 FBN MONEY MARKET FUND 1,087.30 FIDELITY NIGFUND 1.67 INTERCONTINENTAL INTEGRITY FUND 1.05 KAKAWA GUARANTE ED INCOME FUND 143.11 LEGACY FUND 0.78 NIGERIA INTER DEBIT FUND 1,894.68 • • • •

CHANGE -0.57 -0.03 -0.37 -0.09 -1.16 -0.08 -0.03 -0.07 -0.63 -0.14

Amount Sold ($) 399.9m 399.9m 399.9m

Name

(S/N)

GAINERS AS AT 07-04-14

SYMBOL

EXHANGE RATE 6-03-12 Currency

INTERBANK RATES 7.9-10%

try.

Also, the various speakers at the event charged Nigerian youths to begin to see themselves as world changers and make necessary impact in their environment.

Speakers at the event, which held at Are Lanre Kakanfo Inn, Ibadan include Mrs. Ronke Olubanjo, the Managing Director of DGV Academy, Ibadan; Mrs. Iyaduni Olubode, Executive Director, LEAP Africa; Mr. Muyiwa Afolabi of Frontiers International Services; Mr. Obinna Ekezie of Wakanow.com and Mr. Awoyemi Opeyemi of Jobberman.

Mrs. Olubanjo, who spoke on ‘How to Be Your Own Boss’, urged youths to change their mindset about searching for white collar jobs after graduation, but rather look for opportunities around them, acquire specialised skills and make the best out of it.

TERLING Bank Plc has assured youths who are poised to develop their entrepreneurship skills and become employers of of its support.

The Group Head, Strategy & Communications, Mr. Shina Atilola,who represented the Chief Financial Officer of the bank, Mr. Abubakar Suleiman, at the ‘Get Ready for Work’ concert organised by the bank in Ibadan, explained that such support will be for soft loans and grants.

Atilola noted that with the alarming increase in unemployment rate in the country, “our youths must begin to change their mindset about being employed in the banking, oil or telecommunications sectors and now begin to think of how they will become self-employed and even employers of labour thereby contributing meaningfully to the economic growth of the coun-

MANAGED FUNDS Initial Current Quotation Price Market N8250.00 5495.33

scribed, from time to time, by the CBN.” It said the approved auditor shall be an auditor, who is a member of one of the professional bodies recognised in Nigeria, approved by the CBN, resident in Nigeria and carrying on in Nigeria professional practice as an accountant and auditor.

Analysts said the CBN has taken steps to influence an amendment of the BOFIA by the National Assembly. The purpose of such amendment would be to strengthen the regulatory capacity of the apex financial institution and also ensure that monetary policy is in line with the best global practices.

The BOFIA also advised banks to submit such other information, documents, statistics or returns as the CBN may deem necessary for the proper understanding of the statements supplied.

The Act said any bank that fails to comply with any of the requirements of the relevant sub-section will be sanctioned.

It added: “Every bank should appoint annually a person approved by the CBN, whose duties shall be to make to the shareholders, a report upon the annual balance sheet and profit and loss account of the bank, and every such report shall contain statements as to the matters and such other information as may be pre-

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

Movement

1.2655 1.3132 0.9270 1.1597

Bid Price 158.40 9.08 1.05 1.17 0.67 1.33 2,540.20 1,090.11 113.22 1,087.00 1.62 1.03 142.62 0.76 1,890.77 1.2543 1.3132 0.9098 1.1597

OPEN BUY BACK

Bank

Previous 04 July, 2012

Current 07, Aug, 2012

8.5000

8.5000

Movement

54

THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 2014

EQUITIES NIGERIAN STOCK EXCHANGE DAILY SUMMARY AS AT 07-04-14

DAILY SUMMARY AS AT 07-04-14

THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 2014

55

EQUITIES

Profit-taking depresses equities

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IGERIAN equities opened this week with a tinge of bearishness as investors sought to unlock and monetize recent capital gains, tilting the price trend to the negative. The equities market had recorded a weekly average gain of 0.99 per cent last week.

With nearly two losers to a gainer, most equities closed the first trading session on the negative, depressing the average yearto-date return to -6.54 per cent.

The main index at the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), the All Share Index (ASI), declined by 0.22 per cent from its opening index of 38,712.76 points to close at 38,626.11 points. Aggregate market

L

value of all quoted equities dropped

by N28 billion from N12.435 trillion to N12.407 trillion.

The negative market situation was driven by both the larger number of losers and relatively bigger losses recorded by several stocks. UACN Property Development Company (UPDC) topped the losers’ list with a loss of N1.16 to close at N24.

Lafarge Cement Wapco Nigeria trailed with a drop of N1.07 to close at N107.93. Stanbic IBTC Holdings declined by 63 kobo to close at N19.40. Dangote Sugar Refinery (DSR) dwindled by 57 kobo to close at N9.03. Flour Mills of Nigeria lost

50 kobo to close at N70. UAC of Nigeria dropped by 43 kobo to close at N54.37. Access Bank dropped by 37 kobo to close at N7.33 while Ecobank Transnational Incorporated slipped by 31 kobo to close at N12.70 per share.

Ahead of its annual general meeting, Nigerian Breweries played the lead contrarian stock yesterday with a gain of N1.94 to close at N152. Honeywell Flour Mills and Zenith Bank placed second with a gain of 17 kobo each to close at N3.67 and N21 respectively. Livestock Feeds added 15 kobo to close at N3.23. UBA Capital rose by 12 kobo to close at N2.57 while Transnationwide Ex-

press and Dangote Flour Mills added 11 kobo each to close at N2.47 and N8.50 respectively.

With major scrambles in the financial services sector, turnover was above average as investors increased stakes on banking and insurance stocks. Aggregate turnover increased to 443.82 million shares valued at N6.17 billion in 4,134 deals. Financial services stocks accounted for 397.35 million shares valued at N4.37 billion in 2,358 deals.

On stock-by-stock basis, NEM Insurance was the most active stock with a turnover of 101.21 million shares valued at N90.77 million in 25 deals. Zenith Bank placed sec-

of a new expansion programme that would see additional investments by the foreign majority shareholders in its Nigerian subsidiaries.

Executive vice chairman and country chief executive officer, Nigeria and Benin, Mr. Guillaume Roux, disclosed this when he led the top management of the Lafarge Cement Wapco Nigeria Plc on a courtesy visit to the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE).

Lafarge is the majority core investor in two publicly listed companiesLafarge Cement Wapco Nigeria Plc and Ashaka Cement Plc, and Calabar-based Unicem.

Roux, who noted that Lafarge had recently increased its capacity from 3.0 million metric tonnes to 8.0 million metric tonnes, said the group would be making new investments in the next few years to double its

capacity and strengthen its position as a leader in the Nigerian cement industry.

He pointed out the historic importance of Lafarge Wapco as the oldest cement company in Nigeria and the operational spread of the group’s business from the south to the north adding that the expansions will also be across the regions.

He underscored the importance of Nigerian market to the Lafarge global operations noting that the group has continuously demonstrated its commitments to the long-term development of its business and the Nigerian economy by sustained investments, development of new innovative solutions and building of Nigeria’s indigenous know-how and capacity.

“We will make a lot of new in-

FBN Holdings Plc, the holding parent company for First Bank of Nigeria and its previous subsidiaries, is the most diversified financial services group in Nigeria. It is structured under four business groups, namely: commercial banking, investment banking and asset management, insurance, and other financial services. FBN Holdings’ principal bank subsidiary is First Bank of Nigeria Plc, a commercial bank with operations now in 11 countries, as well as FBN Capital, a leading investment banking and asset management company; FBN Life Assurance, a life insurance business; and FBN Microfinance Bank, which offers microfinance services.

Interim report and accounts of FBN Holdings for the period ended September 30, 2013, which was based on the audited reports of major compa-

nies within the group, showed that gross earnings grew by 11.4 per cent to N290.8 billion in 2013 as against N261 billion recorded in corresponding period of 2012.

Profit before tax stood at N70.1 billion compared with N75.7 billion in 2012. Profit after tax stood at N59.1 billion as against N64.3 billion.

Key balance sheet items underlined the continuing expansion and penetration of the group with total assets of N3.7 trillion by September 2013, 14.6 per cent above N3.2 trillion recorded by December 2012. Total customer deposits rose by 16.6 per cent from N2.4 trillion in December 2012 to N2.8 trillion in September 2013. Also, total customer loans and advances stood at N1.6 trillion, an increase of 4.5 per cent on N1.5 trillion recorded

by December 2012.

vestments in the next few years,” Roux said.

Lafarge’s investment in Nigeria is creating substantial value.

Lafarge Cement Wapco Nigeria grew net earnings by 92 per cent in 2013, prompting the board of directors of the cement company to increase dividend payout by 175 per cent.

The board of directors in a notice to investors indicated it has recommended increase in dividend per share to N3.30 for the 2013 business year as against N1.20 paid for the previous year.

Key extracts of the audited report and accounts of Lafarge Cement for the year ended December 31, 2013 showed that profit after tax grew by 92 per cent to N28.2 billion in 2013 as against N14.7 billion recorded in 2012. Profit before tax grew by 30 per cent from N21.3 billion to N27.7 billion. Turnover increased by 12 per cent to N98.8 billion as against N87.9 billion in 2012. The company witnessed significant reduction in interest expenses N5.5 billion to N3.8 billion as a result of the reduction in interest charges due to the full repayment of the Naira syndicated bank loans. Consequently, basic earnings per share grew from N4.90 to N9.42; an increase of 92 per cent.

Chairman, board of directors, Lafarge Cement Wapco Nigeria, Chief Olusegun Osunkeye said the latest earnings report shows a steady growth and demonstrates the strength of the company in delivering value to shareholders and to other stakeholders.

Managing Director, Lafarge Cement Wapco Nigeria, Mr Joe Hudson, attributed the improved results to a strong focus on performance culture.

Stories by Taofik Salako Capital Market Editor

Lafarge, Holcim merge to consolidate global leadership

AFARGE, the parent company of Lafarge Cement Wapco Nigeria Plc and Ashaka Cement Plc, and Holcim of Switzerland yesterday agreed to create a company with more than $40 billion in sales in Europe’s largest deal this yea.

After years of holding back, large companies in Western Europe are staging a dealmaking comeback, with the fastest start to mergers and acquisitions since 2011, according to Bloomberg data. The value of deals in the region rose to $228 billion so far this year, from $189 billion in the same period last year.

Lafarge, the world’s leader in cement and building materials with presence in 64 countries, recently said it planned to double its production capacity in Nigeria as part

FBN Holdings to present audited results April 15

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BN Holdings Plc has sought for extension of the timeline for the submission of its earnings report for the 2013 business year till the middle of this month.

In an investors’ notice, FBN Holdings indicated that the group has experienced some challenges in finalising the accounts of its newly acquired West African subsidiaries, which delayed the conclusion of the group audit.

FBN Holdings stated that it will be submitting its audited financial statements for the period ended December 31, 2013 by April 15, 2014.

According to the report, the intervening period will enable the completion of the statutory review of the accounts of First Bank of Nigeria Limited and FBN Holdings Plc by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

ond with a turnover of 68.14 million shares worth N1.43 billion in 322 deals. Guaranty Trust Bank trailed with a turnover of 62.33 million shares valued at N1.67 billion in 287 deals.

Meanwhile, Access Bank Plc yesterday submitted its audited report for the year ended December 31, 2013 showing a generally negative performance outlook. Gross earnings dropped to N206 billion in 2013 from N208.3 billion in 2012 while profit before tax was almost flat at N44.9 billion in 2013 compared with N44.88 billion in 2012.

Profit after tax declined to N37.4 billion as against N42.86 billion.

The board of directors of the bank has recommended a final dividend of 35 kobo, bringing total dividend per share for the year to 60 kobo. It had paid an interim dividend of 25 kobo per share.

SEC uncovers bogus fees by private equity firms

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MAJORITY of private-equity firms inflate fees and expenses charged to companies in which they hold stakes, according to an internal review by the United States’ Securities and Exchange Commission (US SEC), raising the prospect of a wave of sanctions by the agency.

Bloomberg reported that more than half of about 400 private-equity firms that SEC staff have examined have charged unjustified fees and expenses without notifying investors, according to a person with knowledge of the SEC’s findings who asked not to be named because the results aren’t public. While some of the problems appear to have resulted from error, some may have been deliberate, the person said.

The SEC’s review of the $3.5 trillion private-equity industry began after the 2010 Dodd-Frank Act authorized greater oversight of money managers, putting many firms under the agency’s scrutiny for the first time. By December 2012, examiners had found that some advisers were miscalculating fees, improperly collecting money from companies in their portfolio and using the fund’s assets to cover their own expenses.

“A lot of the practices, in the eyes of the SEC, raise conflicts,” said Barry Barbash, co-head of the asset-management group at Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP in Washington. “The SEC wants those conflicts aired out and wants certain practices ultimately changed, and I’m sure we’re going to see it.”

THE NATION TUESDAY APRIL 8, 2014

56

NEWS Bayelsa explains power outage From Mike Odiegwu, Yenagoa

BAYELSA State Government said yesterday that ongoing repairs of the Kolo Creek Turbine were responsible for the power outage in some parts of the state.

Some areas in Nembe, Southern Ijaw, Otuoke and Ogbia, which depend on the turbine for electricity, have been in darkness for some months.

The Commissioner for Energy, Francis Ikio; Special Adviser on Energy, Olic Kemenanabo and the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Daniel Iworiso-Markson, held a briefing on the situation.

Ikio said the faulty component of the turbine, known as Gas Generator, has been undergoing repairs in Vancouver, Canada.

The commissioner blamed the delay in delivering the equipment on technical reasons.

He said the faulty equipment will be ready for testrunning on May 26.

The commissioner described persons accusing the government of punishing and marginalising some communities as mischief makers.

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Six arrested for Clark’s son’s kidnap

IX people have been arrested by the police in Delta State for the kidnap of Ebikeme, the son of Ijaw National Leader Chief Edwin Clark.

Commissioner of Police Ikechukwu Aduba said the police had stepped up intelligence and investigation.

He said the alleged mastermind of the kidnap and provider of the AK 47 rifle used was Joshua Ogofa.

Aduba gave the names of other suspects as David Emevor, Bosin Kevwe, Sylvester Dio, Pius Arhavwaren and Prince Meslore, adding that four members of the gang -Timi, Abel, Ndamaw and Jacob- were at large.

He said: “Ogofa and some of his accomplices, on April 5, were arrested by personnel

•MEND: abduction stage-managed •’It is not true’ The commissioner called From Okungbowa Aiwerie, Asaba, Bolaji Ogundele, Warri, Mike Odiegwu, Yenagoa and Bisi Olaniyi, Port Harcourt

of the Area Commander’s Office, Warri, working with personnel of the Delta Waterways Security Committee.

“I must stress here that the victim was released unhurt and no ransom was paid.

“The suspects have all made confessional statements giving details of their individual/collective roles in the kidnapping.”

Aduba said the gang members were “extremely dangerous, ruthless schemers and blood thirsty”.

on the people to alert security agencies in times of distress.

The Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta (MEND) has claimed that Ebikeme orchestrated his kidnap.

The militant group in a statement by its spokesman, Gbomo Jomo, alleged that a ransom of N500million was shared by persons involved in the scam.

MEND said the ransom was paid by the Delta State Government from its security vote.

The group accused the police of lying to the public that no ransom was paid.

It said: “The Movement for

the Emancipation of the Niger Delta (MEND) has confirmed that the kidnap of Ebikeme Clark, the son of Chief E.K Clark, was actually a clever orchestrated fraud masterminded by Ebikeme, who stage-managed his own abduction.

“A ransom of N500million was paid by the Delta State government from its security vote and was shared among all those involved in this scam.

“It is rather unfortunate that in a desperate bid for relevance and extra funds to maintain a private jet, certain unscrupulous persons, including the police, will conspire to deceive Nigerians with a phantom abduction, release of the so-called hostage, influence over kidnapers and arrest of suspects

Suspects arrested with three wellheads From Mike Odiegwu, Yenagoa

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Ripples over Ubeku’s funeral From Shola O’Neil, Port Harcourt

THE funeral plan of the first Nigerian Managing Director of Guinness Nigeria Limited, Chief Abel Ubeku, has been hit by controversy.

The head of the family and sole surviving brother of the late business mogul, Pastor Elkanah Ubeku, has rejected a committee purportedly set up for the funeral.

It was gathered that the committee was set up by the wife and some children of the late Social Democratic Party (SDP) presidential aspirant.

Elkanah told reporters in Ayara, Isoko South Local Government Area of Delta State, that the family was yet to meet.

He said: “The family is yet to meet. Any arrangement with these individuals is not valid. The family will communicate the date of the funeral to the public in due course.”

Three Edo officials arraigned From Osagie Otabor, Benin

THREE officials of the Edo State Rapid Response Agency attached to the Ministry of Commerce and Industry have been arraigned for committing “official corruption”.

They were arraigned on a four-count charge of corruptly demanding and collecting N10,000 from Godwin Ubiarie as an inducement to reduce the business premises registration levy.

Fidelis Anenih (44), Fidelis Anegbe (36) and George Asikiya (28) pleaded not guilty. The Magistrate, Aibeku Ihenyen, granted them bail of N500,000 and a surety.

and denying the payment of a ransom, which has already been shared.”

But Ebikeme denied the allegation, saying the involvement of people, such as exmilitant leader Chief Government Ekpemupolo (Tompolo), in his release was proof that the militant group was being mischievous.

“These are faceless people.

How can I stage-manage my own kidnap? Tompolo is their Oga and he was the one who got me out. They are just looking for another story for themselves.

“Is there anything like MEND again? Total rubbish.

Thank God there are people like Tompolo, who are involved in this matter so that clears it.

“Thank God I’m alive, they can say anything they like,” Ebikeme said.

Officials of the Delta State government could not be reached for comments.

•Amaechi presenting a gift to Sylva...yesterday

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Why Amaechi fell out of favour with Jonathan, by Sylva

ORMER Bayelsa State Governor Timipre Sylva has said one of the reasons Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi fell out of favour with President Goodluck Jonathan was his comments on the slow pace of the East-West Road.

Sylva, who is the leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Bayelsa State, assured Amaechi that Bayelsa APC will work with him to flush out the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)-led Federal Government next year.

He said the Jonathan administration had brought misery to the Niger Delta, stressing that corruption and ineptitude will be swept away by the APC. The ex-governor spoke yesterday at the Government House, Port Harcourt, when he led party executive and supporters to visit Amaechi.

Sylva said: “I know that one of the things that brought problems between you and the Federal Government was because you were able to point out that the East-West Road had been neglected by this government.

“Instead of the officials of the Federal Government to come to you to learn, it de-

From Bisi Olaniyi, Port Harcourt

cided to fight you and everyone knows (about this), very unfortunately.

“I must say Mr. Governor that I was so impressed when I came into the state. I missed my way several times today in Port Harcourt, because a lot of things have changed for the better.

“Port Harcourt is wearing a new look. Even the air in Port Harcourt is different and sometimes I wish that this change and development we see in Rivers State is replicated nationwide.

“We have our brother as President today; unfortunately, we cannot say the same thing is happening nationally.”

The former governor said most Bayelsans were frustrated with the Jonathan administration.

He said: “We of the APC in Bayelsa State decided to come to you (Amaechi) to solidarise with you. To tell you that not everybody in Bayelsa State is against progress.

“Not everybody in Bayelsa State is an enemy of

‘When the time comes for us to sweep away the government of the day at the national level, Bayelsans will stand by you‘ progress. That you also have a family in Bayelsa State that identifies with you all the way and we will stand by you all the way.

“When the time comes for us to sweep away the government of the day at the national level, Bayelsans will stand by you and be in the vanguard of sweeping away this government that has brought only misery to the Niger Delta.

“The APC is the platform for progress. You (Amaechi) are an epitome of progress, not only in the Niger Delta, but in Nigeria. Everyone

who comes to Rivers State will bear witness to what you have done, to your commitment.”

Amaechi said: “It is important we realise that character is an essential element to good governance.

“You cannot see a man who has betrayed his friends and you make him governor or deputy.

“What have you done? You have empowered him to betray more people, including the money you left behind in the coffers. So, character should be an essential element in selecting our leaders.

“I pray a lot; because that is the only way I can survive in this country, where everybody is a potential prey and a potential predator.

“Rivers and Bayelsa states are one and therefore APC in Rivers State and APC in Bayelsa are also one.

“We want to be allowed to make our choice. We want to be allowed to express our views.

“We want to be allowed to express our interest and having expressed your interest and your views, the best you can do is to remain convinced in what you stand for.”

HE Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has arrested four men for allegedly dismantling three wellheads.

Derateide Brutu (43), the leader of the gang, said he removed the wellheads to protest government’s inability to create jobs.

NSCDC State Commandant Desmond Agu said the suspects were arrested at 3:30am by the anti-vandal unit of the command.

He said they were nabbed at Korokorosei and Ondewari communities, Southern Ijaw Local Government Area.

Other suspects are Tam Emiakpo, Epumokumo Timidise and Jeremiah Isong.

Brutu, who hails from Sagbama, Sagbama Local Government Area, said politicians only remembered them during elections.

The suspect caused a stir when he was asked what he intended to do with the wellheads.

He said: “I want to use them for my own personal oil drilling. I was taking them to my destination when I was arrested.”

The suspect maintained that there was nothing wrong in what he did and asked the government to judge him.

Claiming that it was the first time, he begged the state Commandant to free the other suspects.

“What I did was right. If it is against the Federal Government, then judge me.

“If l may plead, leave these young men and then face me. I have not been doing this before. This is my first time,” he said.

Timidise said he joined the gang to raise money for his school fees.

Claiming to be a student of Agriculture and Environmental Administration at the Niger Delta University (NDU), he said he thought the gang was only involved in illegal refining of oil.

He said the security operatives arrested them on their way back.

THE NATION TUESDAY APRIL 8, 2014

57

NEWS

Police deploy special forces in Zamfara

Victims give birth in forest From Duku Joel, Damaturu

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WO women fleeing from Boko Haram attack in Buni Gari have given birth in the bush.

An eyewitness, Falmata, said they were inside the bush when the women went into labour.

Falmata and her sister, Lubabatu, who was holding a three weeks old baby, were moving out of Buni Gari, when our reporter met them.

Falmata said: “It was terrible. The sounds of the gunshots were just too much to bear. It was as if it was in front of our house.

“We fled to the bush when we observed that the boys were burning houses.

“As we were running, other women joined us. Two of them gave birth inside the bush.”

T

•Sokoto State Governor Aliyu Wamakko (arrowed) at the All Progressives Congress (APC) ward congress

Three die at Kwara PDP ward congress

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HERE was tension yesterday at the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) ward congress in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital.

Three people were said to have been killed when party supporters engaged one another in a shootout over alleged imposition of ward executives.

Commissioner of Police Ambrose Aisabor said seven people had been arrested.

The commissioner confirmed the death of one person, saying that the police will investigate the incident

•Police: one person died

From Adekunle Jimoh, Ilorin

and any person found culpable will be arrested.

Eyewitnesses said trouble started at Sango, when some PDP supporters, believed to be thugs, engaged themselves in a fight over alleged imposition of ward executives.

It was gathered that a policeman shot into the air to control the crowd but his gun fell down and was picked by some hoodlums, who refused to release it.

The development led the police to forcibly retrieve the rifle from the hoodlums and in the process, another policeman shot at some suspected hoodlums.

Some hoodlums took advantage of the crises to set up bonfires in the area, thereby obstructing traffic.

At Ajikobo Central ward of Ilorin West Local Government Area, the exercise, which started smoothly in the morning with a large turnout of members, turned violent.

Eyewitnesses said it was

disrupted midway.

Party officials were said to have insisted that members present their membership registration cards, bearing holders’ photographs, before they could be allowed into Ansarul Islam Primary School, Okekere, venue of the congress.

But the situation degenerated to a rowdy session.

Prof Shuaib AbdulRaheem and Senator Gbemisola Saraki are from Ajikobi ward.

The party’s State Publicity Secretary, Maryam Muhammed, expressed disappointment at the outcome of the event.

Linking military to Boko Haram unfair, says Shettima

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ORNO State Governor Kashim Shettima has described the allegation that the Armed Forces were supporting Boko Haram as unfair.

To him, the comment made by a soldier, in a radio interview, is most “unhealthy and unhelpful” in counter insurgency operations.

In a statement by his spokesman, Isa Gusau, in Maiduguri, the governor said: “Of all theories being alleged in connection with Boko Haram, the most dangerous as far as I’m concerned is to raise such grievous suspicion around our security forces.

“When citizens have such suspicion and believe in it, I’m afraid, Boko Har-

am will light fireworks to celebrate a grand victory of setting citizens against security agencies.

“Since last week, I have listened and read these media reports with the hope that the issue will not get out of hand but it appears the matter is growing and I find it very disturbing.

“I do not want to bother about the credibility or otherwise of the soldier in question.

“I’m sure the security forces take this allegation seriously and they are investigating it as they should.

“I am not holding brief for the Armed Forces but as a governor, whose area is unfortunately the worst hit, I would rather encourage confidence building be-

‘Benue peace deal working’

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From Gbenga Omokhunu, Abuja

HE National President of Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore, a Fulani socio-cultural organisation, Bello Abdullahi Bodejo, has said the peace deal on Fulani herdsmen/farmers crisis has started yielding result.

A committee was established to curb crisis in Benue, Nasarawa, Plateau, Taraba, Katsina, Kaduna, Kwara and Zamfara states.

Bodejo said he has observed that the victims, who left their communities in Benue, have started returning to re-unite with their families and friends.

In a statement in Abuja, Bodejo said the Fulani/farmers in the communities have declared that they have no problems; rather it was some groups benefiting from the crisis.

“I later understood that some of those fuelling the crisis were those calling themselves Fulani leaders, while they are not recognised as any leader among the Fulani,” Bodejo added.

tween citizens and the Armed Forces so that intelligence sharing can rise continually and we don’t lose focus in counter insurgency.

“Unless it becomes unquestionably evident, we must work as individuals, groups and institutions to promote public trust in our Armed Forces so as to encourage cordiality between citizens and security agencies.

“We must recognise that at the moment, the security agencies are all we’ve got, we should preserve their integrity by at least giving them the benefit of doubt.

“Insurgents will do everything to cause confusion, to manipulate us so that we

don’t trust each other as citizens and as establishments, let’s not fall into their trap, lose focus and become their mass victims.

“The military has in the past arrested, made public and court-marshaled soldiers found to be collaborating with insurgents.

“Such patriotic efforts by the military establishments should be intensified by all security agencies.

“I must acknowledge and appreciate the important roles played by the media in the fight against insurgency.

“The media should kindly and very importantly, too, help in fighting any suspicion that can grow between citizens and the Armed Forces.”

Electoral body extends deadline

K

ANO State Independent Electoral Commission (KANSEIC) has extended the deadline for the purchase and submission of forms for the May 17 local government election.

KANSEIC Chairman Sani Lawal Malumfashi said after April 10, there would be no more extension.

He said only five candidates have submitted their forms, which informed the decision to extend the date for submission.

From Kolade Adeyemi, Kano

‘’Let me categorically state here that this is the third and last time that the commission will extend the time for the purchase and submission of the forms to KANSEIC. “We have directed receiving banks to extend the period to enable candidates pay and purchase the forms.’’

Malumfashi assured that KANSEIC is prepared to conduct free and fair elections.

From Gbade Ogunwale, Assistant Editor, Abuja

HE Inspector General of Police, Mohammed Abubakar, has ordered the deployment of police Special Forces in Zamfara State to prevent the escalation of attacks by suspected Fulani herdsmen.

Over 200 persons were reportedly killed by the herdsmen at Yargaladima village and other communities during a security meeting called by vigilance groups in the community.

A statement yesterday by Force spokesman, Frank Mba, said the deployment comprised 10 units of the Police Mobile Force; three units of conventional policemen; a unit of counter terrorism personnel; border patrol teams; and Force Intelligence personnel.

The Special Forces are to reinforce the existing police personnel in the affected areas, with the police air wing providing aerial patrol and surveillance.

“While commiserating with the families of the victims, the IG urges citizens to cooperate with the Force in restoring peace and security in the area and advised them to be lawabiding as they go about their businesses,” the statement added.

The police boss was said to have earlier set up a reconciliatory committee headed by DIG Michael Zuokumor with a mandate to reach out to communities and stakeholders in the states that have witnessed similar attacks in recent times.

NOTICE! NOTICE!! NOTICE!!!

CAVEAT EMPTOR

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN TO THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT OWNERSHIP OF PLOT 463-464 TRANS/AMADI INDUSTRIAL LAYOUT, PORT HARCOURT, RIVERS STATE IS IN DISPUTE. MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC ARE ADVISED TO BEWARE OF BUYING THE PROPERTY SIGNED: STERLING LAW ALLIANCE

THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 2014

58

NEWS Ohanaeze youths accuse Jonathan of neglect

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From Chris Oji, Enugu

HANAEZE Youth Council (OYC) yesterday lamented that President Goodluck Jonathan has not fulfilled the promises he made to Igbo youths, who voted for him in 2011.

Newly-elected Youth leader Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro said Igbo youths worked to ensure that President Jonathan emerged, but three years after, they were yet to feel the impact of his administration.

Isiguzoro, who regretted the high rate of unemployment among Igbo youths, appealed to the President to accommodate them in his transformation agenda.

“We mobilised, canvassed and worked to ensure that Jonathan won, but since then, the Igbo youth have not seen any impact of his administration. We call on him to ensure that Igbo youths are accommodated in his transformation agenda. That is the only way we can assure him of our support in future,” the OYC leader said.

Isiguzoro called on the Federal Government to set up a Southeast Development Commission just as the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) to cater for the unemployed Igbo youth or include them in the N59.9 billion amnesty programme.

He said their inclusion in amnesty would reduce kidnapping in the Southeast and make the zone to reclaim its position as the foremost commercial hub in the country.

Isiguzoro assured that his leadership would cooperate with nongovernmental organisations and relevant agencies to set up vocational centres in the Southeast.

“I call on Southeast governors to see what they can do for the youth.

They have budgets allocated to Youth ministries and we are going to ensure that we visit the states, commissioners for Youth Development or ministries of Youth Development, to ensure that the money budgeted are utilised for youth empowerment,” he said.

He said OYC would partner the private sector to ensure they live up to their Corporate Social Responsibility, regretting that many people come to Igboland and make money, yet they do not have anything to offer youths.

SSS stops Tunji Braithwaite

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From Onyedi Ojiabor, Assitant Editor and Dele Anofi, Abuja

MEMBER of the National Confrence and frontline lawyer, Dr Tunji Braithwaite, was embarrassed by security operatives yesterday for failing to present his identification badge.

The lawyer, who was able to talk his ways into the auditorium after being confronted by the operatives, was later invited out of the hall by men of the Department of State Service (DSS).

At the entrance to the auditorium, when he was earlier questioned about his identification, the founder of the defunct Nigerian Advance Party (NAP) expressed surprise that he was not recognised by the operatives.

He went into the hall. But not quite long after finding his seat, two DSS operatives approached and invited him out for a chat.

The eminent lawyer was told to be civil, that if others were wearing theirs, he must wear his too, if he wanted to participate in the proceedings of the day.

Dr Braithwaite was later allowed back into the hall but not before he got his tag.

The conference chairman, Justice Idris Kutigi, last week, warned delegates to always wear their identification badge to avoid embarrassment from the security operatives.

Also, former Oyo State Governor Rasheed Ladoja and former President of the Nigeria Union of journalist (NUJ), Lanre Ogundipe, both members of the conference, were involved in an air return. Ladoja and other passengers of a flight from Ibadan, Oyo State, were returning to Abuja in a commercial flight belonging to Overland Airways. The windshield of the aircraft reportedly broke midair near Minna, the Niger State capital.

An eyewitness said the incident forced the aircraft to return to Lagos.

It was learnt that Ladoja and the other passengers were later moved to another aircraft belonging to the same airline, which took them to Abuja safely. They attended yesterday’s plenary.

Disagreement almost ensued when it was time to observe a minute silence for the victims of violence in Zamfara State. Some delegates felt that there were killings in other parts of the country as well. Rather than single out the Zamfara victims, members said the respect should be for all victims nationwide. The leadership obliged.

110,000 for APC congress in Abia From Sunny Nwankwo, Aba

OVER 110,000 members of the All Progressives Congress Party (APC) will participate in the ward congress in Abia State today. State APC Chairman Donatus Nwankpa, in a telephone interview, said the the election was part of the party’s step to reposition ahead of the 2015 election.

He said the election would be peaceful and the results credible and fair.

Nwankpa said: “Whatever will be the outcome today, it will be a way of giving life to the party, a new mentality, a new approach and springboard towards our desire to make a change in 2015.

Abia gets first woman CJ From Ugochukwu Ugoji-eke, Umuahia

ABIA State Governor Theodore Orji has sworn in a substantive chief judge three years after Justice Sunday Imo retired in December 2010.

She is Justice Nnenna Chioma Oti, from Ohuhu in Umuahia North.

Governor Orji said the swearing in of a new chief judge would strengthen and solidify the judicial system.

Orji said since December 2010 when Justice Imo retired, many people within the system had been appointed in an acting capacity.

•Abia State Governor Theodore Orji (middle); his wife Mercy; President of the Customary Court, Justice Onwuchekwa (left); Abia State House of Assembly Speaker Ude Okochukwu (second left) and Deputy Governor Emeka Ananaba, at the swearingin of Justice Nnenna Oti as the Chief Judge of the state in Umuahia.

NHRC faults Army, DSS over killing of eight squatters in Abuja T HE National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) yesterday faulted the Nigerian Army and the Department of State Services (DSS) over last year’s killing of eight squatters by security operatives at an uncompleted building behind the Apo Legislative Quarters in Abuja.

The Army and DSS had claimed that they killed the squatters in self-defence. They said the security operatives carried out the early morning raid on the house on September 20, 2013, after receiving intelligence reports that members of the Boko Haram sect were hiding in the building to attack government targets in the Abuja.

The NHRC, in a report released yesterday in Abuja, said the killing of the eight, who were later identified as tricycle riders, was “unlawful”.

The commission, in its 83page report read by NHRC’s Chairman, Chidi Odinkalu, awarded N135 million compensation to the relatives of those killed. It also awarded N10 million to each of the families of the eight people killed during the attack and N5 million to each the 11 people injured in the attack.

NHRC directed that the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation lodge the evidence of payment with the commission’s office within 30 days.

The commission noted that contrary to claims by the security agents that the people killed were members of Boko Haram, they (security agents) did not even interview those injured after the shooting to establish their connection or otherwise with the sect.

NHRC said before the operation, security agents ought to have interrogated the owners of the property where the squatters were killed.

It said contrary to claims by the security agents that arms were hidden in the uncompleted building, no arms and ammunition were shown to have been recovered from the property where the squatters were killed.

It also faulted the DSS and the Army for forcefully moving some of those arrested in the building to their states of origin with warnings that they should not return to Abuja.

The commission noted that the claim by the security agents

There is no credible evidence to suggest or show that the victims in this case were members of the Jama’atu ahlus sunnah lid da’awati wal jihad (JALISWAJ) (also known as Boko Haram) or involved in direct participation in hostilities. They were, therefore, protected, civilian non-combatants.

From Eric IKhilae, Abuja

that the squatters were the first to open fire was not believable in the circumstance.

The commission urged the military and the SSS to review and harmonise the Rules of Engagement governing the operations of security agencies to make them comply with the applicable rules of international humanitarian law governing non-international armed conflicts.

NHRC directed the security agents to file a certified text of the harmonised and updated Rules of Engagement with the commission within two months.

Odinkalu said: “Having investigated this complaint, heard all the parties and examined the relevant laws, the National Human Rights Commission, exercising its powers under Sections 5 and 6 of the National Human Rights Commission Act, 2010 (as amended), hereby determines and declares that: “At the time of the lethal encounter giving rise to this complaint on or about September 20, 2013, there was a non-international armed conflict (NIAC) going on in northeastern Nigeria involving the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria on the one hand and an organised armed group, Jama’atu ahlus sunnah lid da’awati wal jihad also known as ‘Boko Haram’, on the other. The theatre of active conflict extended to Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory.

“With reference to the existence of a NIAC in Nigeria, the rules of international humanitarian law, including, in particular, common Article 3 of the Geneva Conventions, are applicable to the parties to the conflict. The rules of human rights law under the Nigerian constitution and other

relevant laws supplement international humanitarian law in the theatres of conflict and remain applicable outside those theatres.

“There is no credible evidence to suggest or show that the victims in this case were members of the Jama’atu ahlus sunnah lid da’awati wal jihad (JALISWAJ) (also known as Boko Haram) or involved in direct participation in hostilities. They were, therefore, protected, civilian non-combatants.

“The defence of self-defence asserted by the respondents (FG, DSS, Chief of Army Staff and AGF) is not supported by the facts or evidence. Taking account of all the circumstances in this case, the application of lethal force was disproportionate and the killings of the eight deceased persons as well as the injuries to the eleven survivors were unlawful; and “There is no basis in law for confining detainees freed by the respondents to internal banishment.

“In consequence, the commission hereby orders and directs as follows: *Awards N10 million as compensation to each of the deceased or N8 million in respect of the eight deceased persons; *Awards to each of the injured survivors, N5 million or a total of N55 million against the respondents; *The Honorable AttorneyGeneral of the Federation and Minister of Justice is to ensure that evidence of payment is lodged with the Registry of the National Human Rights Commission within 30 days of the present decision. *That the second and third respondents (DSS and Chief of Army Staff) are restrained from the use of administrative banishment against any of the survivors; *That the respondents shall undertake a review and harmonisation the Rules of Engagement governing the operations of security agencies to bring

them into compliance with the applicable rules of international humanitarian law governing non-international armed conflicts; *And further requires that the respondents shall file a certified text of the harmonised and updated Rules of Engagement with the Secretariat of the NHRC within two months of the present decision.

“In accordance with section 22(1) of the National Human Rights Commission Act (as amended), the commission shall register this report and decision for enforcement with the Federal High Court in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).”

The commission noted that the ban on motorcycles and tricycles by the authorities of the FCT was not supported by any law and was, therefore, illegal.

It said the ban amounted to discrimination on the part of the poor who survive by riding bicycles and tricycles to eke out a living.

Reacting to the commission’s verdict, the Assistant Director, Legal Services of the Nigerian Army Headquarters, Abuja, Col. Godwin Anyalemechi said the Army would likely challenge the report on the grounds that it was not established that the shots that killed the victims were from its men.

Mr G. O. Amyalemechi, who was at the venue where the report was read, said a decision will be taken after the Army authorities have been briefed.

The NHRC’s report was on its investigation of the circumstances leading to the killing of the squatters. The commission’s investigation was informed by complaints initiated by two groups.

A non-governmental organization (NGO), Global Rights, initiated the complaint with the commission on September 20, last year, challenging the legality of the deaths in Apo. Also, on September 21, another NGO, the Human Rights Law Service (HURI-LAWS), lodged a separate complaint with the commission, alleging that the killings referred to in the DSS release of September 20 were unlawful and that the persons killed were innocent squatters who were unconnected with the JALISWAJ.

THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 2014

59

FOREIGN NEWS

Rwanda genocide: UN ashamed, says Ban Ki-moon

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HE UN is still ashamed over its failure to prevent the 1994 genocide in Rwanda, UN chief Ban Kimoon has said.

He was addressing thousands of people in the capital, Kigali, as Rwanda began a week of official mourning to mark the 20th anniversary of the genocide.

Many people were overcome by emotion during the ceremony, with some suffering fits.

At least 800,000 people mostly ethnic Tutsis and moderate Hutus - died at the hands of Hutu extremists.

The killings ended ended in July 1994 when the Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF), a Tutsiled rebel movement, marched into Kigali and seized control of the country.

Rwanda's President Paul Kagame and Mr Ban lit a torch which will burn for 100 days the length of time the genocide lasted.

A diplomatic row has prompted Rwanda to bar France's ambassador, Michel Flesch, from attending the event, AFP news agency reports.

The week of mourning be-

gan with a wreath-laying ceremony at the national genocide memorial, followed by the lighting of a flame at the Amahoro Stadium in Kigali, where UN peacekeepers protected thousands of people during the genocide.

The torch has been carried across the country for the past three months, visiting 30 districts and passing from village to village.

Thousands of people packed the stadium, having queued for hours through the fog, reports the BBC's Charlotte Attwood from the scene.

Many of them reacted with uncontrollable emotion to the stories, speeches and performances recalling the genocide, our correspondent says.

Some of them had to be led out of the stadium while others had fits, she adds.

Traditional mourning songs were broadcast over the sound systems.

There was also a dramatisation of Rwanda's recent history, which our correspondent says was a clear depiction of the government's interpretation of events.

Donetsk 'people's republic' declared

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RO-Russian protesters who seized the regional government building in the Ukrainian city of Donetsk are reported to have declared a "people's republic".

The rebels have called for a referendum on secession from Ukraine by 11 May. Ukrainian security officials are being sent to the eastern cities of Donetsk, Luhansk and Kharkiv after pro-Russia groups occupied government buildings.

Interim President Oleksandr Turchynov called the unrest an attempt by Russia to "dismem-

ber" Ukraine.

In an address on national TV, he said it was "the second wave" of a Russian operation to destabilise Ukraine, overthrow the government and disrupt planned elections.

Russia recently annexed Ukraine's Crimean peninsula after a referendum there which Ukraine did not see as valid.

As tensions mounted yesterday, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Deshchytsya told Russia's Ekho Moskvy news agency that Kiev would go to war with Russia if it sent troops into eastern Ukraine.

LENTEN MESSAGE

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T such a time in our national life when there are many aspirants jostling openly or nocturnally for political offices using every form of antics and tactics, at times conventional and often times diabolical, it is pertinent to declare that except the Lord builds the house, they labour in vain that strive to embark on such a venture (Psalm 127:1). It is grace that gives meaning to aspirations.

When grace is at work, official structure, political zoning, work experience, stature, looks and past etc. are suspended.

It is impossible to run a successful race without His Grace; anything out of His grace will make life and living a burden. In 1 Corinthians 15:10, Paul said, “But by the grace of God, I am what I am: and His grace which was bestowed upon me was not in vain; but I labored more abundantly than they all: yet not l, but the grace of God which was with me.”

From the passage picked as text, Apostle Paul revealed that the height he attained in the ministry

Theme: Your Race is in His Grace Text: “..... this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, ....I press toward the mark.....” Phil. 3:13,14

By The Revd. Henry O. Adelegan

was not by his efforts, electioneering campaigns, degree or exposure but he was made by the sufficiency of the grace of God. It was the grace of God that added ‘extra’ to his ‘ordinary’ and made him extraordinary. It was grace that elevated him and grafted him on a mountain where he could see what mere mortals could not see.

The grace of God is a lifter; while it is good to make efforts, it is imperative to note that His grace is the needed catalyst that speeds up life reaction. Paul told the Romans in 11:5,6 that, “And if by grace, then it is no more grace: otherwise grace is no more grace. But if it be of works, then it is no more grace: oth-

erwise, work is no more work”.

It was grace that spared Moses from death when he was given birth to, afforded him the rare privilege of being brought up by his mother within the confines and pleasures of the enemy, spared him when he was sentenced to death ( Exodus 2:1-15) and at his re-appearance before the King was like a god (Exodus 7:1a). It was Grace that set apart Esther, a lady that was unskilled in the art of modeling, and placed her above more qualified contestants and made her the Queen of Babylon (Esther 2:17). Joseph too experienced that grace from when he was born as a special son to his parents to when he was a special housekeeper in Potiphar’s house to a special prisoner in prison until he rode to be-

NEWS ‘Why INEC seeks power to stop candidates’ Continued from page 2

said) how parties before the 2011 elections were sending us names of people who did not participate in primaries or who had participated and lost or who were unqualified. Again, even the constitution has given qualifications for candidature.

All we are being told is that it(nomination) is an internal party affair; ‘if you allow INEC to do that, you are restraining parties from the right to choose who will represent them’.

“But INEC itself is a regulatory body; we are supposed to regulate the process, using the Electoral Act. So, if there are inconsistencies in the Electoral Act, they should be corrected.”

Responding to a question Jega maintained that the 2015 poll timetable was not designed to favour any candidate or party.

He also ruled out the likelihood of conducting elections in one day.

He said: “There are countries that are doing all elections on a single day. In Nigeria, at this point in time, as I speak with you, we are hesitant to do elections on a single day in 2015.

We may be able to confidently do it in the future.

“But in 2015, given all the logistical challenges, given the fact that we have been improving incrementally, we do not want to introduce something that can go the other way and we will have total negative reversals.

“The logistics of organizing all elections in one day are huge.

From the large number of ballot papers we have to use; the large movement of materials and personnel that we have to move; and the challenges of lack of proper voter education in a country with a high per-

centage of illiteracy; all these complicate matters.

“What will happen is that on election day, you will give all the voters about five different ballot papers to put in five different ballot boxes. Already, there is complaint about how our voters are not sufficiently educated and they are wasting their votes. A lot of tension will occur. People will put ballot papers in different boxes; they will be confused in terms of which papers belong to what; then other people may now come in to guide them and you will have chaos and confusion in the electoral process.

“It is something we can hope for and we can work towards but we in INEC do not believe that it will be good to attempt to do it in 2015. But that is why we are improving.”

He gave insight into how INEC arrived at the poll order for 2015.

He said: “ In 2011, we did elections on three different days. We said ‘okay, we cannot do all elections in one day’; we said, ‘okay, let us see if we can reduce the number of days’.

That is why we said in 2015, we want to do the elections in two days.

“In 2011, we did National Assembly Elections first; then we did presidential election and governorship and State House of Assembly elections.

“Nobody complained about the sequence; nobody said at that time that governorship election should come first and presidential election should come last. That was how we did it.

“Now that we decided to do two-day elections instead of three. All we did is to use common sense and logic. We said the three elections we did be-

fore, the one you did first and the one you did second should be on the first day in 2015 and the one we did third in 2011 should be on the second day. That is the logic we applied.”

Jega insisted that INEC was not acting any script ahead of the 2015 poll.

He said: “When you hear people talking, they said we changed the sequence and we did not change any sequence. They said there was going to be bandwagon effect. When we did it in 2011, was there a bandwagon effect?

The President was elected under PDP, many PDP governors lost election. Where was the bandwagon effect? Now, people are talking about possible “So, we did not design the timetable to favour anybody or to disadvantage anybody. We did not alter the sequence of the elections. We are consistent in terms of what we did in 2011 with regards to the sequence and we believe it is the best thing to do under the circumstances.

Asking us to do all elections in one day is going to create massive challenges “Really, we should not bite more than we can chew. We have been improving on what we did in 2011. If we do much better than we did in 2011, we will be prepared to do all elections in one day later.

“I think we are being railroaded by partisan politicians who are becoming jittery about their own participation in politics. All these talks about changing of sequence, bandwagon effect; do elections in one day; they are all outcome of fears or psychological mentality who believe they cannot win elections until these things are done the way they want it. If it is going to be bandwagon; it can go either direction.”

come the Prime Minister in Egypt without any degree or election.

Grace is the podium that raises a person’s head above those of his peers. David attested to this in Psalm 94:17-19 that, “Unless the Lord had been my help, my soul had almost dwelt in silence. When I said, my foot slippeth; thy mercy, O Lord, held me up. In the multitude of my thoughts within me thy comforts delight my soul”. No wonder, he was lifted from an ordinary shepherd boy to be the King of Israel.

Grace is the direct opposite of disgrace - it abolishes and terminates sufferings as attested to in 1 Peter 5:10 that, “But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you.”

Brethren, there is nothing you can do in the absence of His grace; it is His grace that will determine your race and not your efforts because your race is a subset of His grace.

Even if you are a nuisance to the society and unwanted in the poli-

ty, you are a star in grace. Smith Wigglesworth was a nuisance as a plumber but grace found him out at age 48, he was called home many years past but his star is still shinning not because of educational pedigree but grace of God. It doesn’t matter the obstacles you are facing now at home, work or family, the grace of God has the capacity to lift you above every mountain, pick you up from where you are, give value to your life and revive your lost hope. Paul told the Romans in 9:15-16,” I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion. So, it is not of him that willeth, nor of him that runneth, but of God that showeth mercy”.

There is greatness inside you.

Your greatness is in your race and your race is hidden in His grace.

Peter was a fisheman but grace lifted him (Luke 5:1-11). Jesus was the son of a Carpenter but the grace upon His life lifted Him up. Jephtah was forsaken by his people because of the circumstances of his

•Revd Adelegan

birth but grace found him out (Judges 11).

To enable you obtain grace that will navigate your life to greatness and testimonies during this season, you must accept Him as your Lord and Saviour (Colossians 1:27b; John 10:14), develop increased knowledge about Him (2 Peter 1:2-3; Joshua 1:8), humble yourself. 1 Peter 5:5b) and be a kingdom investor. (2 Corinthians 9:8).

Prayer: Father, I release my life race unto you, let your grace avail for me, in Jesus’ name.

Govt merges three aviation agencies Continued from page 2

accepted partial commercialisation of the Nigerian Postal Agency (NIPOST).

Government shares in NIGCOMSAT are to be sold. The government will retain minority shares. The government also accepted that the functions of NIGCOMSAT that relates to space development be reverted to the National Space Development Agency.

The Nigerian Institute for Education Planners and Administrators (NIEPA) will be merged with the National Teachers Institute (NTI).

The Nigerian Film Corporation will be commercialised from the 2013 fiscal year - with the government seed funding. The government accepted that all offices of the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies outside Lagos and Abuja be closed down immediately to ensure judicious use of available resources in line with government policy.

The government accepted that the National Council of Arts and Culture be merged with the National Troupe and the National Theatre into one agency called National Council of Arts and Culture.

The Federal Government also accepted that the Nigerian Financial Reporting Council ceases to be funded by the government from 2015. It also accepted that the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) be self-funding from 2014.

The allegation made by the National Boundaries Commission against the office of the Surveyor General of the Federation over the funding of two non-existent boundary demarcation will be properly investigated.

The government accepted the management audit of the National Institute for Sports (NIS).

But it rejected the recommen-

dation for an amendment in name and status of the Federal Civil Service Commission to the Federal Public Service Commission. The recommendation for a single term of five years for the chairman and members of the commission was accepted.

Accepting the recommendation for the scrapping of Fiscal Responsibility Commission (FRC), the government also directed the AGF to initiate action for the abolition.

It directed that the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) should perform the function of the FRC. The government accepted the recommendation that the National Salaries, Income and Wages Commission’s enabling law be repealed and the functions of the commission subsumed under the RMAFC. But the recommendation that Infrastructure Concession and Regulatory Commission (ICRC) be subsumed under the Bureau of Public Enterprises for greater synergy, was rejected.

Also rejected is the recommendation of the merger of NTA, FRCN and VON into one body to be known as Federal Corporation Broadcasting of Nigeria (FCBN).

But NTA will be fully commercialised.

Rejecting the recommendation for the abolition of the Federal Character Commission, the government said that the commission should be strengthened to perform its constitutional role and functions.

It rejected the recommendation that the law establishing the Border Communities Development Agency be repealed and its functions reverted to the National Boundary Commission.

The government rejected the recommendation that it should stop funding current expenditure of National Institute on Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) from the

2015 and limit itself to certain essential capital requirement of the institute.

The merger of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the National Refugees Commission into one agency to be known as the National Emergency Management and Refugees Commission, was rejected.

The government also rejected the recommendation for the Debt Management Office (DMO) to become an extra ministerial department in the Federal Ministry of Finance and delisted from the office of the Vice President.

It rejected the recommendation that the Act setting up the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) be repealed and also rejected that the Road Safety Commission (FRSC) be reverted to the Highways Department of the Federal Ministry of Works.

The government also shunned the recommendation that the enabling law of the National Agency for the Control of HIV/AIDS be repealed just as it disagree that the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria and the Nigerian Christian Pilgrims Commission be abolished and their functions transferred to a department under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Besides, the government will not stop sponsoring pilgrims and pilgrimages.

It also rejected the privatisation of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigerian (FAAN) - in view of the security situation.

“Government rejects that the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Nigerian Broadcasting Commission (NBC) and the regulatory functions of Nigerian Postal Service (NIPOST)) be brought together under a unified management structure to be known as the Communications Regulatory Authority of Nigeria,” the white paper said.

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NEWS

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Dearth of spectrum threatens broadband plans

ACK of spectrum to drive the penetration of wireless broadband may scuttle the short, medium and long term ambition of the National Broadband Plan (NBP) of the Federal Government, The Nation has gathered.

Under the NBP, for cities, accessibility through wired medium currently (2013) stands at 1.3 per cent with short term goal (2015) of 10 per cent, medium term (2018) 18 per cent and long term target (2020) of 25 per cent. For penetration, the current level stands at 0.3per cent while short term goal is 3.3per cent, medium; 5.3 per cent while long term is 8.3 per cent.

For national target, availability through wireless which stands at 33 per cent, with short, medium and long term targets of 60, 80 and 95 per cent, respectively. For penetration or use, which stands at six per cent with short, medium and long term ambition of 21, 42 and 76 per cent.

But one of the frequencies that will make this happen is still with the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) and there is no indication that it will be freed up soon to the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) for auctioning to operators.

According to sources, the spectrum is called 2.6

U

tin Peck, said the firm is committed to using technology to develop the requisite manpower skill that will help move the economy to the next level through its internship programme.

He said: "We are determined to partner with the relevant organisations, government agencies to help develop the human capacity requirements. Now we are focusing so much on Africa and Nigeria will become a hub for all the activities that we

are doing. We are going to do more on our internship programme through which we try to bring graduates on board, take them through some technical trainings and make them ready for jobs in Oracle. So, this is a very good opportunity for us to hire young people but of course in some cases, they complete the training and get fixed up in other companies. We are doing this not just for us as an organisation but to also give back to the society."

Glo showcases new services

ATIONAL Telecom O p e r a t o r , Globacom, has organised a live demonstration of over ten brand new products and services for the media. The demonstration covers a broad spectrum of the operator's offerings aimed at improving the way its subscribers live, work and play.

The live demonstration of the products and services, which took place at Mike Adenuga Tower, Victoria Island on Tuesday was graced

by Glo Ambassadors, WAJE, Naeto C, Bez, Chee, and

I

gigahertz (GHz) and it ranges from 2.5GHz to 2.69Ghz. The source said before now, it was used by the NBC-licensed operators who do Muti-channel Multi-point Distribution System (MDDS).

MDDS is defined as a wireless system consisting of headend equipment (equipment for satellite signal reception, radio transmitter, other broadcast equipment, and transmission antenna) and reception equipment at each subscriber location (antenna, frequency conversion device, and set-top device). MMDS transmits on Super High Frequency (SHF) microwave frequencies and can be encoded for pay-forview and subscriber services, all from studio facility.

According to the source, by the time the allocation was made at the international Telecommunications Union (ITU) for the frequency to also be used for International Mobile Telecommunication (IMT), the NCC contacted the National Frequency Management Committee (NFMC), which requested the NCC and NBC to work out the modalities for the release of the band. A committee was subsequently set up for that purpose.

According to ITU, "long term evolution (LTE)-Ad-

vanced and "Wireless MANAdvanced" should be accorded the official designation of IMT-Advanced. Advanced systems include new capabilities that go beyond IMT-2000, widely deployed since 2000 and referred to as 3G mobile technologies. ITU has now specified the standards for IMT-Advanced, the next-generation global wireless broadband communications that provide access to a wide range of packet-based telecommunication services supported by mobile and fixed networks.

Director, Spectrum Administration, NCC, Dr Nwaulume Augustine confirmed that, indeed, a committee has been put in place but he was unsure whether it will get the spectrum freed for the NCC. He spoke on the sidelines of a capacity training forum for journalists in Lagos.

He said: "That committee is still working. I don't know if it is possible for the licence to be auctioned this year based on the fact that not so much progress has been made with regard to getting it freed from those users.

"But I am very sure that by the first or second quarter of next year, something would happen because it is very important. It is very vital to wireless broadband."

Stories by Lucas Ajanaku

‘Nigeria’ll be Africa's hub of devt’

UNITED States (US) multinational computer technology giant, Oracle Corporation has said Nigeria will be the cornerstone of its developmental focus on Africa, assuring that it will continue to help grow the human capital element of the country.

Speaking on the sideline of an event organised by The Economist in Lagos, its Sales Consulting Senior Director, Europe Middle East and Africa, Presales Centre, Mar-

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THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 2014

Omawunmi, as well as a security chief, the Divisional Officer, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Lagos, Mr. Sunday Olaiya.

Some of the services demonstrated include Glo Family and Friends Finder, Glo Game Store, Glo Medicare, Glo Mobile Newspaper, Glo Directory, Glo Borrow Me Credit, Glo Security Tips, Glo Love Zone, Glo Property Tips, Glo Daily Inspiration and Glo Legal Adviser.

According to Globacom's Marketing Coordinator,

Mr. Adeniyi Olukoya, the various offerings came out of rigorous research that spanned several months.

Shedding light on each of the products, Mr. Olukoya said Glo Family and Friends Finder is a new security service that makes it easy for friends, family, employers and employees to locate one another anytime, anywhere around the country.

All a subscriber has to do is to send the text "find" followed by the telephone number of the person to be found to 5511.

MainOne supports education network

N furtherance of its commitment to the development of connectivityenabled research and education networks in Africa, MainOne, has sponsored of the premier West Africa conference on educational research, the West and Central African Research and Education Network (WACREN) conference which took place in Lome, Togo last month.

With Building a state-of the-art network infrastructure for research and education as its theme, it forms part of WACREN's mission to build and operate a world

class network infrastructure, develop state of the art services, promote collaboration among national, regional, international research and education communities and build the capacity of the REN community.

MainOne's Country Manager, Ghana, Joseph Odoi, who represented the company shed perspectives on "Regional connectivity solutions platform in WA and Africa".

Mr. Odoi noted that MainOne's support for WACREN 2014 is in alignment with the company's focus on supporting educa-

tional institutions through the provision of effective broadband infrastructure.

He said: "Effective broadband is strategic to educational research because it increases exponentially the capacity to conduct meaningful research, network and share ideas and transcend barriers of distance. We support this initiative because we are fully cognizant of the effect of inter-institutional collaboration, and the developmental impact this will have on Africa's educational and research institutions."

THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 2014

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NATION SPORT

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Rodgers: Pressure on City

IVERPOOL boss Brendan Rodgers believes there will be more pressure on Manchester City as the two title contenders prepare for their clash next weekend.

The Reds are currently top of the standings, two points clear of second-placed Chelsea, while the Citizens are four points adrift with two games in hand.

"They have invested to win the Premier League and the Champions League," Rodgers said in his post-match press conference after his side battled to a 2-1 win over West Ham, their ninth consecutive victory.

"They will be looking to get a result next Sunday. For us, we are just

going to enjoy it.

"We know it's a big game. But in the big games this season, we've tended to do well."

Rodgers added: "It was interesting to hear what Vincent Kompany said. We should have won there earlier this season, we should have won there last season and we should have beaten them at Anfield last season too.

"The mentality here is to be fearless. We will respect the opposition, but it's about ourselves.

"We give young players a chance and there's no pressure on them. I will take the pressure.

"Our aim is to focus on the ball and the team. If we do that, it will take us a long way."

Ramsey urges Gunners to bounce back

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IT-AGAIN Arsenal midfielder Aaron Ramsey has urged the team to put things right ahead of this weekend's FA Cup semi-final.

The Gunners were outplayed by Everton in their 3-0 defeat at Goodison Park, putting their Champions League place under threat with the Toffees just one point behind with a match in hand.

Everton will overtake them in fourth with a win at Sunderland this weekend, but Arsenal's attention will be on the cup this week.

Ramsey, who came off the bench for his first appearance since Boxing Day after a thigh injury, said the priority was to improve immediately if they were to end their nine-year wait for a trophy and then they could re-focus on their league campaign.

"We have to pick ourselves back up now," he said.

"We have still got a lot of points to play for. We are in the semifinal of the FA Cup, so we have got to put things right.

"We have to put a strong run-in together now. We have five games left and we will aim to win them all to give us the best opportunity to finish fourth or higher.

"I think Everton still have a few difficult games but, then again, every game is difficult in this league.

"So many teams can upset each other so we will have to be aware

of that, concentrate on ourselves and just play for the remaining 15 points."

The only positive note from the defeat on Merseyside was the longawaited return of Ramsey, who was a key player for Arsenal before his injury.

He is now looking to make up for lost time by securing some silverware and the club's 17th successive season in the Champions League.

"It was very frustrating for me to be out for three months of the season when things were looking so good," he added on arsenal.com.

"These things happen in football and I am just glad to be back out there now.

"Hopefully I can show what I can do, help this team achieve Champions League football again and hopefully have a medal at the end of the year."

•Ramsey

Caulker: Cardiff have a mountain to climb

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TEVEN Caulker admits Cardiff City have a "mountain to climb" to avoid the drop and apologised to supporters for the loss to Crystal Palace.

The England international centreback was among the starters as a fine double from Jason Puncheon sandwiched a tap-in from Cardiff old boy Joe Ledley to consign the Welsh club to a comprehensive defeat on Saturday.

•Caulker

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's charges have won just once in their last nine league matches, and are six points adrift of safety with just five games remaining.

Caulker is at a loss to explain Cardiff's poor showing against Tony Pulis' men at the Cardiff City Stadium, and claims the club's remaining matches are now akin to "cup finals".

"It's difficult to explain it," he said.

"I don't know what went wrong.

"It was not for a lack of trying because the boys ran their socks off. But we are going to have to dig deep and show a lot more fight and passion.

"We apologise to the fans that turned up and gave us great support as always. We were very disappointed with it. We know we can perform a lot better than that.

"We've given ourselves a mountain to climb now. It's going to be five cup finals between now and the end of the season.

"It's still mathematically possible we can stay up, so we are not going to write ourselves off.

"We've got confidence from how we played at the start of the season and we've got to get back into some kind of form."

•Rodgers

Pellegrini promises to attack

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ANUEL Pellegrini has no intention of taking a cautious approach when Manchester City visit Liverpool in a potential title-decider.

A run of 14 Premier League games unbeaten - including nine straight victories - has propelled Liverpool to the top of the table, two points above second-placed Chelsea, while City are four off the pace in third.

However, City's destiny still remains in their own hands as they possess two games in hand over Brendan Rodgers' leaders.

That means Pellegrini's charges will still hold the advantage providing they do not lose Sunday's match at Anfield.

The City manager will not allow his side to play for a draw, however, and believes it is not in the team's mentality to play in that fashion.

"Maybe I am wrong but I always think in the same (way) as a manager - if you play to draw, you will lose," he said.

"So we are going to play to win. Of course, after the game, if we couldn't win the game and we draw it's a good result, but we are not going to play against Liverpool thinking we must draw.

"We don't know to play in that way."

Liverpool and City are comfortably the leading scorers in the Premier League this season, having found the net 90 and 84 times respectively.

Pellegrini feels the style of play employed by both teams is good for football.

He added: "I am very happy for football. For attractive football, creative football.

"That's why I think Liverpool have a lot of merits in the year they are

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ground in the race for a UEFA Champions League place, with high-profile defeats to Chelsea, Arsenal and Liverpool proving damaging.

Sherwood came under fire for openly criticising his side following the 4-0 loss to Chelsea last month, while his decision to view games from the stands in recent matches has also courted derision.

However, Sherwood has moved to defend himself, pointing to Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho slamming his side after a 3-1 Champions League defeat at Paris Saint-Germain last week, and feels he is being targeted due to his inexperience.

"You are damned if you do and damned if you don't," he is quoted as saying by The Daily Mirror. "If Mourinho sits up there (in the stands), he's fine.

Nigel Pearson at Leicester has sat up there all season and they've been promoted to the Premier League.

"I didn't have any hidden agenda regarding (having a go at the players). I just felt they needed to be accountable.

having so far, because they are an attractive team and they always score.

"Maybe I also am wrong, but I prefer important teams, big teams, than those that just want to win 1-0 and give all the possession of the ball to the other team, score one goal and always defend during 90 minutes."

•Pellegrini

Sherwood: I’m treated differently

OTTENHAM head coach Tim Sherwood believes he is not afforded the same treatment as the likes of Jose Mourinho due to his rookie status.

Sherwood was handed the reins at White Hart Lane in December, replacing previous incumbent Andre Villas-Boas.

The 45-year-old enjoyed a honeymoon period as Tottenham won five and drew one of the first six Premier League matches he took charge of.

However, the club have since lost

•Sherwood

If Mourinho does it now, it's right. If I do it, it's wrong because I'm inexperienced and Mourinho's the best manager we've ever seen supposedly.

"Whatever decisions you make in this game only stand up if you win. If Mourinho doesn't go on to win anything at Chelsea then he's going to be wrong for saying what he said.

"Obviously he gets a little bit more leeway because he has earned the right to say what he wants. People will say 'Who is Tim Sherwood to start having a go?'

"But I am realistic to know it's Tottenham, you are under the spotlight no matter what you do. You've got a rookie manager coming in here, won the first eight games or whatever it was and everyone thinks it's easy.

"I didn't. I was realistic; I knew there was going to be some downs. It was a case of just cracking on. But whatever decisions I make are my decisions. If I'm going to go down, I'll go down my way."

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THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 2014

NATION SPORT •Michael Ballack (C) of Germany celebrates with team mates Clemens Fritz (L) and Arne Friedrich after scoring the opening goal during the UEFA EURO 2008 Group B match between Austria and Germany at Ernst Happel Stad

Ballack: Germany on another level

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ICHAEL Ballack is unquestionably one of the most successful German footballers of modern times. A former captain of the three time FIFA World Cup™ winners, with whom he won 98 caps, the midfielder also won a host honours at club level with, among others, Kaiserslautern, Bayern Munich and Chelsea.

The Gorlitz-born midfielder skippered his country to a runners-up spot at the FIFA World Cup 2002 Korea/Japan, as well as to third place on home soil four years later while, in his final major international tournament, he led his side to another second-placed finish, this time behind Spain at UEFA EURO 2008.

A three-time German Footballer of the Year and member of the ‘FIFA 100’ club (a list of Brazil legend Pele’s 125 greatest footballers, drawn up in 2004 to mark FIFA’s 100th anniversary), Ballack spoke to FIFA.com about his sparkling career, future plans, the current crop of German talent and Brazil 2014.

FIFA.com: Michael, you called time on your career in October 2012 and had your testimonial six months later, in which some of football’s biggest

•Ballack

names participated. How much do you miss the game?

Michael Ballack: I was lucky enough to manage the mental transition pretty well. That’s the most important thing after a long, intense period of being a professional footballer. As a young player, you make a lot of sacrifices to play football and you always enjoy it, but it’s still a tough life that takes its toll on you, and when you suddenly wake up one day and aren’t playing football anymore, you don’t really know what to expect. “What comes next? How do I deal with this?’ I was able to do that without any problems, mentally at least.

I made sure to take some time off, which I had planned to do. Then you have to wait until you feel like you’re ready to maybe get back into football in some capacity or another.

Do you have an idea about the path you wish to pursue?

No, I don’t like to put myself under any pressure like that. It needs to happen organically. You need to get a feeling for what you think will motivate you, what you think you will enjoy. I don’t feel under any pressure to make a decision. I’m very happy right now doing other things. Football is and always will be a big part of my life, though.

The World Cup is due to start in just over two months in Brazil. What are you expecting from a tournament taking place in such a football-crazy country?

You expect great football, for the Brazilians to be excellent hosts and for Brazil to transmit that atmosphere they create, and the way they live and breathe football, to the rest of the world. If you’re a fan - either in Brazil or watching on TV - you hope that comes across. Brazilians are emotional people, football has huge meaning to them and I think we can all look forward a fantastic World Cup. Who lives for football more than Brazilians? I think we can all be really excited when we sit down to watch the action.

In 2006 you were a leading player in the German team. What does it mean to a player to appear in a World Cup on home soil?

That depends slightly on you as an individual. Trying to prepare in detail for it as a team is difficult because once it all starts, there isn’t really a situation you can compare it with. Lots of players are used to playing at a high level, and the Brazilian team this year will have lots of top players. However, none of them will have played in a World Cup

at home, and the expectation levels on them will be enormous. They have to face that. They will manage it, but the closer that the tournament gets, the more they as players come into focus, and it isn’t always easy to concentrate on football and maintain your level of performance. I think the guys in charge of the team will protect them so that they can concentrate on their jobs on the pitch as fully as possible. But it depends on the player himself and how the Brazilian team can go about dealing with that this year. If you look at the situation with a positive attitude, then a World Cup like that can carry you through. There’s a sense of euphoria in the country, or at least that’s how it was for us. Whenever we walked along the street, we always got a feel for the atmosphere that was being created. That gives you such a big boost and encourages you to eke out that extra one or two per cent.

Can you see Brazil winning the tournament?

Yes! They’ve had a few difficult years with the national team recently, there’s no doubt of that: so much is always expected of Brazil teams. But at the Confederations Cup, they proved what they can produce at home. That’s why they’re one of the favourites for the Trophy.

Germany are also considered one of the favourites to go all the way. What do you think they can do?

It’s tough for anyone to be successful in South America. No European country has won a World Cup there and it’s not going to be any easier for the European teams these days either. Along with Spain, though, Germany are a team on another level from most others. We’ll have to wait and see if they can prove that again, but the talent is most definitely there. Germany have a team that, in terms of the football they play, have made tremendous progress, and given their squad, they deserve to be among the favourites to win the tournament. However, this time they also have to prove that in the games that really matter like semi-finals or finals - if they can make it that far - that they also have that little bit of luck that makes you a winner. I think the team can do that as they have outstanding players. I’m just as excited to see how the other contenders perform, but Germany certainly deserve to be counted among the favourites.

Why do you think Germany haven’t managed to be first over the finish line in the last few tournaments?

It’s a combination of factors that you need: the absolute will to win, a good team mentality and some individual brilliance. Obviously a little bit of luck is part of it as well, to have fortune on your side at the right moment.

Experience also plays a part. You can see that with the current Spain team, the way they go into a tournament with a mixture of experience and new players, but always with the hunger and desire to win. Those are all important things that play a role. As an outsider you can always discuss what a team might have needed to win, but when you’re a player, you’re 100 per cent convinced that you’re doing things right and you always try to give your best. If things go Germany’s way this time and the Trophy is there to be won, those players will also have that experience from previous tournaments. Many of them also won the UEFA Champions League with FC Bayern or reached the final with Borussia Dortmund. That gives you confidence and the players should take that with them to the World Cup. What is your opinion of Germany’s group-stage opponents Ghana, Portugal and USA? It’s definitely not easy, although Germany are the favourites. It’s an even group with another very strong European side in Portugal, Ghana, one of the strongest teams in Africa, and USA, who have improved a lot under Jurgen Klinsmann, who are always really well prepared in a physical sense and can always cause an upset against the bigger sides. Still, I think Germany will get through, though.

Which teams do you consider to be among the strong favourites to win the World Cup? You’d have to say the teams that have impressed the most in the last few tournaments: Spain, as the defending champions; I’d also say Italy, a team that Germany always have problems against. With France, you’d have to see how they’ve come on by the start of the tournament, as they struggled in qualification. But South American countries like Argentina or Chile could also cause a surprise, as they’re comfortable playing there and will feel like they’re playing at home.

In the 2002 World Cup semi-final, you received a yellow card - your second of the tournament - which meant you were suspended for the Final. What went through your mind the moment the referee booked you?

When something like that happens, it’s like you immediately have tunnel vision, like you can’t quite process what’s happened.

You’re obviously disappointed, but I celebrated with the rest of the team and I wanted them to win the Final. It only dawns on you weeks, months or even years later, when you realise just how difficult it is to reach a World Cup Final. If you don’t play in a game like that, then you realise what you’ve missed out on. It was really bad luck for me, no question, but that’s the nature of football. You have to be professional enough to be able to accept it, but at the moment when it happened, it was very tough to take.

You had many coaches in your long and glittering career. Which of them left the biggest impression on you?

I was fortunate enough to work with a lot of top coaches and I learned something from all of them. If you’re a young professional starting out, then you’re malleable and you can be adapted, more so than if you’re in your late 20s or early 30s when you’re a seasoned pro. I learned a lot under Christoph Daum in Leverkusen when I first started playing top-level football and got accustomed to the demands of playing midweek, weekend, Champions League, Bundesliga and then international football, all at the same time. I had a really good coach at the time in Daum, who really pushed me to succeed and because of whom I have lot to be thankful for.

Where will you be following the World Cup this summer?

I’ll be in Brazil working as a TV pundit for ESPN in Rio de Janeiro. It’s an amazing city that’s buzzing all the time.

I can hardly imagine what the place will be like when the tournament begins.

“It’s a combination of factors that you need: the absolute will to win, a good team mentality and some individual brilliance.”

THE NATION TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 2014

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SPORT EXTRA

Enyeama: Champions League spot ‘ll boost World Cup readiness

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UPER Eagles’ deputy skipper, Vincent Enyeama, has declared that most players of all qualified nations for the Brazil 2014 World Cup are not thinking of the championship at the moment but the fate of their various clubsides across the globe.

“We are talking of top professionals who are heavily rewarded for what their clubs get during the season, some are fighting for a place in the Champions League, like my club, Lille Metropol, others are fighting to get Europa league positions and some very good players are even fighting against relegations for their clubs.”

So to many of us, we don’t want to discuss the World Cup at the moment, what we want is good placement for our club sides and then we can shift focus to the World Cup. If my club gets a Champions League spot for instance, it will help me focus properly for the World Cup and I know Nigeria will do well, trust me”, he said.

Enyeama, who has been

•Seeks truce in Nigerian football the regular skipper of the national team in the absence of Joseph Yobo, also called on football authorities to refocus and let sleeping dogs lie for the good of the game in the country. “We read a

lot about happenings in Nigeria, which most times are not palatable but we are the African Champions and we must let ourselves enjoy the moment while it lasts so that we can take a very deter-

mined spirit to the World Cup and I trust the NFF people will listen and help concentrate on better preparation for the World Cup. In essence we don’t want to hear any story of disagreement in the football family, please.

•Enyeama

Okpala’s claim mischievious, says Eagles’ coordinator

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UPER Eagles’ Coordinator, Emmanuel Danjuma Attah, has described as worrisome and unbelievable claims by former Assistant Coach of the team, Sylvanus Okpala, that Nigeria Football Federation officials shared from gifts given to the team by individuals and state governments.

Speaking in Abuja on the matter, Attah said Okpala’s claim smacks of either lack of information or mischief and he should be called to

•‘Team needs concentration, not controversies’ order, especially as he has already gone to court over his dismissal by the NFF. “Those of us who are insiders of the team know how we handle our affairs when it comes to gifts to the team.

Decisions are normally taken by the team’s skipper in conjunction with the team administrator and at the end of the day all of those concerned are briefed. The NFF never even have any idea of

how we share our money or who gets what and Okpala knows this. It’s surprising that he can come out to say monies were shared with NFF officials, it’s share desperation and it won’t help his case”.

Team’s Media Officer, Ben Alaiya, quotes Attah, as saying that what the team needs at the moment if full concentration for the World Cup in Brazil not distraction from

those who are supposed to be patriots whether they are with the team or not. “Time on our hands is rather short and all we need now is to focus on the World Cup where we think we can make an impact not debating whether monies was shared, which has never happened before. Otherwise the players should have been the first to react to any deduction no matter how rich Nigerians think they are.”

NFF outlines duties for Falcons', Eaglets’ crews

T

HE Nigeria Football Federation on Monday clearly spelt out for the respective crews of the Senior Women National Team (Super Falcons) and U-17 National Team (Golden Eaglets) their duties and responsibilities as both teams seek to build new, solid squads.

At a parley at the Conference Room of the NFF Secretariat, Abuja, NFF's Director of Competitions, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi warned of the dangers of persons taking over the duties of others in crews of the National Teams.

"I have been mandated by the NFF President and the Chairman of Technical Committee to fully brief you all on the importance of sticking to your respective duties and carrying out your responsibilities well.

"You must know the responsibilities that go with each role and the need to also tolerate and respect other persons and their roles, because you all come from different backgrounds to carry out a national assignment. We want the crews of all National Teams to be abreast of their duties and to do those duties to the best of their abilities.

"For example, the Head Coach is the leader of the team at all times, while the Team Administrator is the head of administration, who handles all administrative and logistics matters," Dr. Sanusi said.

The Super Falcons are preparing for their 2014 African Women Championship final round qualifying fixture against the She-Amavubi of Rwanda, with the first leg coming up next month, while reigning

world champions Eaglets have a 2015 African U-17 Championship qualifying fixture against either DR Congo or Burundi in July.

While the Eaglets are billed to participate in the WAFU B Tournament taking place in Togo later this month, the NFF has secured an international friendly for the Falcons against the Indomitable Lionesses of Cameroon, to be played in Abuja on April 15.

Present at the meeting were Ademola Olajire (Assistant Director, Communications), Pascal Patrick, MON (Special Assistant to NFF President), Ruth David (Team Administrator, Falcons and Head of Federation Cup), Edwin Okon (Head Coach of Super Falcons), Emmanuel Amuneke (Head Coach, Eaglets), Christopher Danjuma (Assistant Coach, Super Falcons), Justin Madugu (Assistant Coach, Super Falcons), Emeka Amadi (Goalkeeper Trainer, Eaglets), Bala Mohammed (Goalkeeper Trainer, Super Falcons), Tayo Egbayelo (Team Administrator, Eaglets), Omoye Akhigbe (Doctor, Super Falcons), Ayodeji Olarinoye (Doctor, Eaglets), Ada Nwachukwu (Physiotherapist, Super Falcons), Abubakar Aliyu (Physiotherapist, Eaglets), (Henrietta Ukaigwe (Team Coordinator, Super Falcons), Prince Udofia (Team Coordinator, Eaglets), Morakinyo Abodunrin (Media Officer, Eaglets), Gracious Akujobi (Media Officer, Super Falcons) and Godiya Jezhi (Equipment Manager, Super Falcons).

Your Sexual Health & You: Novelty Tips, Questions & Answers

I

am in my early thirties and I noticed that for the last two years (immediately after my wedding), I cannot get another erection after the first round of sex. Also, the early morning sex seems to be impossible.

Prior to this period, I have never had this issue before especially with early morning sex. I had to abstain from sex for about three years before my wedding because my wife was a virgin and she wanted us to have sex only after our wedding. It was after the wedding that it started– Cletus Dear Cletus, there is a tendency for men with similar problems to conclude it is as a result ofsome kind of witchcraft. But don’t jump to such conclusions. During your period of abstinence, you might have developed a form of erectile dysfunction which you did not know about. Now that you are sexually active, you are only just becoming aware of it. Secondly, many married men are unable to get erections when with their wives but are okay when they have sex outside. These things happen.

In any case, we will identify the cause of your own problem through a system of elimination. I recommend taking a supplement that will give you renewed sexual energy, strong erections and staying power. For this I recommend Exploding Thunder supplement. If there are no results after taking this supplement for one month, then it can safely be said that your problem borders on the psychological. But if you respond to treatment, then you are experiencing a form of erectile dysfunction, which is not unusual for men in their thirties. Men are at their sexual peak as teenagers. After that, their sexual powers begin to grow weaker as they get older – Uche My sex drive is back after I started taking the Exploding Thunder supplement you suggested months ago. I only wish I could last longer in bed because I experience premature ejaculation sometimes. Thanks – Joseph Hello Joseph. I am glad you are responding to treatment. That is phase one. To last longer now, all

you need is an ejaculation delay cream, delay condom or penis sleeve. Look for Stay hard Delay Cream. It is very good. Pasante Delay Condoms are very good too. The way they work is that they slightly numb the skin around the head of the penis for a few minutes. This numbing process reduces penile sensitivity during intercourse which in turn prolongs the period of thrusting before ejaculation. With a good delay cream, wipe or condom, a man can last for up to fifteen minutes or more before ejaculation – Uche I used to ejaculate very small semen during intercourse until you recommended Max Load supplement. It worked but I cannot find it anymore. Please how can I get it? Ehis You can get in on www.zeevirtualmedia.com. There are other brands as well such as Explosion Ejaculate Volumizer. So whenever you cannot find Max Load, look for Explosion– Uche I experience vaginal odour and it embarrasses me and makes me very conscious of my body. That is why I refuse oral sex whenever my husband wants to give it to me - Faith First of all, vaginal odour is unavoidable because under wear and tights deprive that area of air circulation. But you can still ensure that you smell fresh during intercourse. The mistake many women make is jumping into sex without cleaning up first. That is why women are encouraged to carry wet wipes with them for cleaning up or better still, having a wash in the bathroom just before intercourse. Flavoured lubricants such as Fruitopia and 69 Orgasm Gelcan also help and arequite effective in replacing body odour with a fresh alluring scent. So give these a try- Uche That’s it for today. The names of the people featured here have been changed for their privacy. Adults in need of these treatments/novelties can call 08171912551 or 08027901621 or any other number here to order or they can order online at www.zeevirtualmedia.com. Zee Virtual Media delivers to you wherever you are in Nigeria.

For enquiries, send your emails to custserv@zeevirtualmedia.com - Uche Edochie, MD, Zee Virtual Media.

TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 2014 TRUTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM

VOL.9

NO. 2,812

TODAY IN THE NATION ‘While our policy wonks in Abuja have been content to chase inflation, stable exchange rates – the real enablers of the economy, the critical pillars on which a modern economy can be erected have been left unattended to’ SANYA ONI

COMMENT & DEB ATE EBA

T

HIS correspondence has long been in contemplation.

Taxonomically, we cannot be classified as ornithological specimens. But you and I nevertheless share an identity of plumage in the sense that we have an abiding passion for the word, whether scripted or merely verbalized. This shared identity inclines us ineluctably, as the saying goes, to congregate in the same proximity.

I take the opportunity of this long-delayed correspondence, then, to impart the intelligence that I have long been captivated by the lexical dexterity, the hyperpolysyllabicsesquipedalian magniloquence that distinguished your orations on the floor of the House of Representatives in Abuja and other platforms.

The National Assembly building, vaguely evocative of the architecture of Augustan Rome, was supposed to radiate the aura of that epoch and capture something of the oratory for which it was justly celebrated.

But that was for the most part a forlorn expectation.

You were the singular exception. In oration after oration, you mesmerized not just the House but the entire nation with your penetrating insights on a catholic range of issues, employing locutions that at once delighted, befuddled, entertained, instructed, and titillated.

Imagine, therefore, my discombobulation when, as a result of one of the perversities often thrown up by the process that is the preoccupation of psephologists, we found ourselves bereft of your perorations from that hallowed Assembly.

Since that lamentable discontinuity, nary a lexical spark to has been uttered on the floor or in committee to animate proceedings or galvanize the Assembly to rousing ratiocinations on the issues convulsing the polity. I harbor not the slightest doubt that a tracking poll would have registered a precipitous fall in public interest in the proceedings of the House from the moment it was deprived of your inspired and inspiring contributions on account of the perversity aforementioned.

Since then, you have only fleetingly and all too rarely favoured us with those breath-taking flights of oratorical virtuosity that distinguished you from your pathetically earth-bound contemporaries in and outside the Legislative Branch.

Drawing only on my personal recollection, I would say that you have rendered us very few such favours since the January 2012 public uprising against a phantom oil subsidy the Jonathan Administration, laboring under a misapprehension and hobbled by its overweening profligacy, asserted that it was going to eliminate.

Such gratuitous provocation surely warranted a comprehensive deployment of the biggest artillery pieces in your lexical depository, and you delivered magnificently in a spirited intervention that transported one right back to those halcyon days in the House.

“I have read with acatalectic disgust, gov-

RIPPLES NIGERIANS PAY LOWEST TAXES –TAX EXPERT

Why not? Their supposed ‘TAKE-HOME PAY’ can’t even TAKE THEM HOME.

OLATUNJI DARE

AT HOME ABROAD olatunji.dare@thenationonlineng.net

To Patrick Obahiagbon, from a kindred soul

•Obahiagbon

ernments asinine and puerile ratiocinations attempting to justiceate the proposed removal of subsidies from petroleum products,” you declared. “It has asseverated that its intentions are guided by the need to checkmate the odoriferous excesses of a Machiavellian and Mephistophelean cabal and I have said to myself, what a shame? What a self- indicting admittal of the failure of governance? What a hocus pocus? What an anathematous disdain for its citizenry?”

Exactly my own cogitations on that vexatious issue.

Those who cannot disentangle the rich layers of this lexical package to savour its even richer content can only excoriate themselves for committing their time and leisure to less ennobling pursuits than total and sustained immersion in a standard dictionary of the English language.

Such people deserve no commiseration whatsoever. Let them make the dictionary their inseparable accoutrement as is your custom if they want to be worthy of your attention.

There was also your posthumous disquisition of like vintage on the transition of the novelist, human rights crusader and

stalwart of the university lecturers’ union ASUU. “The grand initiation of Professor Festus Iyayi is a lancinating loss of another stentorian voice, against retrograde and prebendal forces of primitive mercantilism. That he passed through transition on matters pro bono publico, bears eloquent testimony to our state of dystopia. Such is the evanescence of life. It’s all vanitas vanitatum.”

No amplification is required here; res ipsa locutur.

Between the misconceived effort to eliminate a phantom oil subsidy and the demise of Iyayi, a glut of occurrences, a concatenation that is all too emblematic of the Nigerian condition, eventuated. But the public could not avail itself of your profound insights, your unique summative skills and the forensic proclivities that would have illuminated the occurrences to the point of incandescence.

To take as a point of departure the wanton provocation of attempting to eliminate a bogus subsidy: You will recall that, to assuage public denunciation of the galactic expenditure on the president’s foreign travel, Dr Goodluck Jonathan had solemnly covenanted to curtail his peregrinations.

That has gone down as another vacuous vow. Since then, he has grown exponentially more peripatetic, to the point that the 10 executive jets in his fleet — Air Jonathan, as some call it — can no longer accommodate his wanderlust. How did we land ourselves with another walkabout president?

Only a perspicacious commentator gifted with your formidable lexical and forensic skills can do justice to this executive restiveness and its attendant consequences.

Then there is the case of the minister, since defenestrated in a cabinet shuffle, and the armoured limousines she corralled agencies under her supervision to buy for her private use. Sustained demands for her dismissal fell on Aso Rock’s insentient tym-

HARDBALL

H

A, this Charity must be a lucky man or woman, the way some National Conference (NC) delegates are pledging to push their windfall his or her way!

Lagos lawyer, distinguished Senior Advocate of the Masses (SAM) and eminent Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Femi Falana, has promised he would donate his NC allowance to Charity.

That just reminds Hardball of the imperative of being Charity (ah, Oscar Wilde's The Importance of Being Earnest?); also reminiscent of the exploits of the crafty tortoise in Achebe's Things Fall Apart.

The old crook in the folklore christened himself 'All of You' and grabbed all the refreshments in the skies; leaving his benefactors, who donated feathers for his make-shift wings, in the lurch. Well, he ended up with a cracked back! But Hardball won't be like that, after becoming Charity and enjoying NC lollies.

But the imperative to be Charity became even more imperative when another Senior Advocate, the Apapa Jigijigi (that is his traditional title) himself, Chief Mike Ozekhome, was trenchant on his determination to locate Charity and dash (apologies to President Good-

panum, despite all its orchestrated ululation about fighting corruption.

Something tells me that your forceful intervention, delivered in locution that can move mountains, would have compelled the minister aforementioned to resign soon after the scandal broke, or driven Dr Jonathan to such high dudgeon that he would have convened a world press conference to personally announce her dismissal.

You would have denounced in the most stirring anti-colonial, anti-neocolonial, anti- imperialist language that Kwame Nkrumah would have been proud to claim as his own the very thought of celebrating the centenary of the dysfunctional polity Lord Lugard’s mistress christened Nigeria.

On Boko Haram, you would have exhausted the vocabulary on nihilism.

On the Forest of Horrors recently uncovered near the Ibadan, just across from Nigeria’s busiest highway, and I suspect you would have dug deep to disinter from your repertory imprecations that would make those in the Old Testament sound like benedictions..

Which brings me, finally to the on-going confabulation in Abuja that is now called, not from an excess of admiration, I hasten to asseverate, the Jonathan National Conference (JNC for short). What do you make of its omnivorous inclusiveness, its inchoate agenda, and the obscene financial recompense pressed on the participants, many of whom pass their time sleeping or bickering over free food?

What is your construction on the “consensus” that is supposed to undergird decision-making at the confab? One commentator obviously lacking your analytical rigour and lexical acuity has called it “programmed gridlock.” I am sure you will have exploded, as only you can, the inanity of the whole thing and pointed out that if a consensus existed or could be fabricated on the key issues of national existence, there would have been no need for a conference It is deeply to be regretted that your ongoing exertions as Chief of Staff to His Excellency the Comrade Governor of Edo State Adams Oshiomhole have bequeathed you scant amplitude to share with the public your reflections on the issues of the moment.

Personally, I take consolation from the intelligence that you are keeping a private journal with your characteristic verve and lucidity, and that it will be made available to the attentive public as soon as you can extricate yourself from the labyrinthine bureaucracy of Edo State.

Meanwhile, Igodomigodo, fraternal felicitations. Fraternal regards to the Comrade Governor.

•For comments, send SMS to 08111813080

•Hardball is not the opinion of the columnist featured above

Charity? My name is Charity! luck Jonathan) him or her his allowances.

The learned silk said should he give up the lolly, he had no guarantee the money would return to the treasury, since it had already been appropriated. For all you know, the cash could just develop wings and fly away. Besides, the SAN declared he would do the spendthrift Federal Government no good by further enriching it. So -- that's where Charity gets lucky -he would rather give all to Charity!

So, folks, any good suggestions how Hardball can become Charity? For your pains, let me enter this solemn pledge. If I become Charity, I won't chop alone. Charity means loving and sharing. I intend to live up to the billing of my name. So folks, I'll share the almost N10m lollies with you.

Then, since as Charity I would be burying my snout in Nigeria's munificence, and I am not even an NC delegate, I will try my best, as long as I live, to sort out the Nigerian problem.

Unlike the Lamido Adamawa, who just declared a Cameroonian enclave, named Adama-

wa State of Cameroun, where he can escape to and continue holding court should Nigeria go kaput, it would be Nigeria or nothing. So, I will mobilise my people, that means all of you folks who will share in my good fortune as Charity, to weigh in on the NC to fix our country.

As Gen. Mahammadu Buhari said in his military head of state days, Nigeria is our country.

We must stay here and salvage it together.

But all these I will do only and only if you show me, Hardball, how to become Charity.

To me and to you, my fellow common man, that sum is just too tantalising to let go of.

Let me also plead with other delegates to address their minds to the Apapa Jigijigi argument. It is no use further enriching the overrich Federal Government, or even the overrich NC delegates. The common man needs those millions.

As your Charity, I represent the common man. So, be charitable. Help Hardball become Charity.

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