August 20, 2015

Newspaper of the Year

•No Boko Haram threat in Ondo, say govt, army •Oyo State pupils to pay N3000 education levy •Police parade suspected cult members in Ilorin •Lagos terminates N50m shopping complex lease •Nigeria’s widest circulating newspaper

VOL. 10, NO. 3312 THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2015

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•www.thenationonlineng.net

TR UTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM TRUTH

N150.00

Catholic bishops back Buhari’s anti-corruption battle

1.5m IDPs in Nigeria, says UN •Ki-Moon coming on Sunday

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NITED Nations Resident Coordinator in Nigeria Mr Daouda Toure yesterday pleaded for more resources to meet the needs of internally displaced people.

There are about 1.5 million of them.

Toure spoke in Abuja during the activities to mark this year’s World Humanitarian Day celebration with the theme: “Inspiring the World’s Humanity”.

“We appeal for more resources to respond particularly to the education and health needs of the displaced people.

“What is available is not commensurate with the situation Continued on page 4

Baba Sala getting better, says UCH

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RESIDENT Muhammadu Buhari has got the backing of Catholic bishops for his anti-corruption crusade.

The bishops urged Nigerians to cooperate with the Buhari Administration to ensure sanity in the polity by rejecting corruption.

•Ki-Moon

From Odunayo Ogunmola, Ado-Ekiti

Acting under the aegis of Catholic Bishops Conference of Ibadan Ecclesiastical Province, comprising Ibadan Archdiocese, Ondo, Ilorin, Oyo, Ekiti and Osogbo dioceses, the clerics canvassed a “regime of justice and equity, where mer-

its are respected and the rule of law exalted”.

The call was made in a communique issued at the end of the second plenary meeting of the bishops held at the Jubilee Conference Centre, Oke-Ado, Ibadan, Oyo State from August 17 to Continued on page 4

•INSIDE: SUNMONU PANEL TO RESOLVE NLC CRISIS P60 VP: 110M NIGERIANS POOR P6

EFCC moves in as $4.5b tax scandal hits agency Commission grills NIPC officials Three ex-ministers, Customs chiefs for questioning

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OW did 20 oil companies get $4.5 million tax holidays to which they are not entitled?

This is the puzzle the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is battling to resolve.

Helping the EFCC are some officials of the Nigerian Investment Promotion

From Yusuf Alli, Abuja

Commission (NIPC) and the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment.

The Ministries of Petroleum Resources and Solid Minerals and the Nigerian Customs Service may also be probed for questionable tax waivers, it was learnt yesterday.

How PDP was destroyed, by BoT chair Haliru

A former Special Assistant to an ex-minister has been interrogated by the anti-graft agency.

Besides, three former ministers and some officials of the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) are likely to be interrogated by the anti-graft agency.

The tax holidays were given to the oil firms during the ad-

ministration of former President Goodluck Jonathan.

It was gathered that about 20 local oil companies benefited from the bonanza after buying over marginal fields from some International Oil Companies (IOCs).

A source at the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment said: “The EFCC is

investigating the ministry and the Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission [NIPC] for tax holidays to about 20 oil companies.

“We actually got a letter of invitation which was dated 28th of July, 2015 and it was received by the Permanent Secretary of the ministry.

“The EFCC letter requested

for the appearance of the director (Industrial Inspectorate Division) for interaction.”

Two directors of NIPC, who were allegedly responsible for granting these tax holidays, have also been grilled by the EFCC. A former Executive SecreContinued on page 4

A GOVERNOR AT WORK

From Gbade Ogunwale, Abuja

T

HE Acting Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Board of Trustees (BoT), Dr. Bello Haliru Mohammed, yesterday said the violation of the zoning principle by vested interests destroyed the party.

Mohammed, in a statement by his media aide, Mr. Emeka Nwakpa, attributed the fast declining fortune of the PDP to the abrogation of the zoning principle in 2011.

The party jettisoned zoning to pave the way for the emergence of Dr. Goodluck Jonathan as presidential candidate — a development which Mohammed said severely undermined the principle of equity and justice on which the party was founded.

According to him, the WILL THE PDP paid dearly for it with CHIBOK the loss of power at the cenGIRLS EVER tre in the last general elecRETURN?

?

Continued on page 4

•Lagos State Governor Akinwunmi Ambode (2nd right) with Secretary to the State Government Tunji Bello (right), Public Works Corporation General Manager Ayo Sodeinde (left) and Oshodi Local Government Executive Secretary Dawood Adeola Olajobi (2nd left)during the governor’s inspection of Brown Street, Oshodi for rehabilitation ...yesterday.

PHOTO: OMOSEHIN MOSES

•ENERGY P15 •SPORTS P24 •POLITICS P45 •N/HEALTH P47 •PROPERTY P50 •FOREIGN P57

THE NATION THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2015

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NEWS

A new National The aviation sector is alive with a debate over the Federal Government’s plans to revitalise the national carrier. Experts and key operators are sharply divided in their perspectives on the modalities to be adopted in putting the Green-WhiteGreen national colours back in the air, reports KELVIN OSA- OKUNBOR •Benin Republic President Boni Yayi flanked by Kebbi State Governor Atiku Bagudu (right) and United Bank for Africa (UBA)/ Heirs Holdinds Chairman Tony Elumelu in Cotonou, Benin Republic.

•From left: Marketing Director, FrieslandCampina WAMCO Nigeria, Mr. Gupta Tarang; President ,Nutrition Association of Nigeria, Prof. Ngozi Nnam; Senior Scientist, Global Nutrition Development, FrieslandCampina Innovation Centre, Dr Anne Schaafsma and Marketing Manager, (IFT) FCWAMCO, Mrs. Zatur Hassim at the 10th Nutrition Seminar of FrieslandCampina WAMCO Nigeria in Abuja...yesterday.

• President, American University in Nigeria (AUN), Yola, Adamawa State, Dr Margee Ensign speaking at the 5th Business Leaders’ Forum of the Nigeria Chapter of the International Association of Business Communicators (IABC)

•From left: Regional Operations Director, Lagos Region, Airtel Nigeria, Oladokun Oye; a beneficiary`s father, Mr. Olumide Alfred and Manager, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), Airtel Nigeria, Chinda Manjor at the presentation of a cheque by members of Airtel Employee Volunteer Scheme to the family of Esther Alfred Inumidun. Five-month-old Esther was diagnosed of hole in the heart and she has been flown to India for surgery.

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HE debate is on, triggered by a recent directive by President Muhammadu Buhari to Aviation Ministry officials.

They are to work out the modalities of setting up a new national carrier.

The rationale for such a carrier has engendered unease among experts, airline operators and watchers of the troubled aviation sector.

Expectedly, the directive has pitted against one another players in the sector on both sides of the divide.

Those who are favourably disposed to the idea have described the directive as a welcome development. Others, who feel the government has no business going into such moneyguzzling enterprise, have not hidden their opposition.

The divergent views raised on the proposed carrier by experts are predicated on seven failed attempts by previous administrations to reestablish a national carrier since the liquidation of the Nigeria Airways Limited (NAL) in May, 2003 by former President Olusegun Obasanjo.

Such attempts include: Virgin Nigeria; Air Nigeria; Nigerian Global Airline and Nigerian Eagle Air among others.

Since 2003, Nigeria has lost several billions of dollars to capital flights repatriated by over 27 foreign carriers that operate international flights into and outside of the Nigerians shore.

More than a decade after it went moribund, relics of the weatherbeaten and decripit airplanes, that were once Nigeria’s flag carriers, have been sold as spare parts when Arik Air got the fanchise to operate the defunct NAL’s workshop at the Muritala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Ikeja in Lagos.

With no strong Nigerian carriers to reciprocate the over 73 Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) it signed with countries, Nigerian routes have remained not only lucrative but for foreign carriers, which enjoy multiple entry points into the country under lopsided air treaties and Open Skies Agreements (OSAs).

Worried by the trend, the President, penultimate Wednesday, directed Aviation Ministry to expedite action on the establishment of a new national airline.

President Buhari gave the directive after he was briefed by officials of the ministry, led by their Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Binta Bello.

Mrs. Bello, who apparently bought into the vision of the country having a carrier it can call its own, embraced the President’s directive to reestablish one.

“Mr. President is quite concerned with the absence of a national carrier for now and he has directed the ministry to look into the possibility of having a national carrier as soon as possible,’’ she told State House reporters.

The defunct national carrier - Nigeria Airways - was established in 1958 and was once the pride of the nation until it eventually went into liquidation in 2003. No thanks to mismanagement.

So disturbed was the erstwhile

President, Chief Obasanjo, that he complained that boosted of more than 10 aircraft when he left the office in 1979 as military Head of State, had only three that were on wet lease during his second coming as a democratically elected President, 30 years after.

That informed NAL’ liquidation despite the privatisation options that could have savaged the ailing airline.

But some experts and operators in the aviation sector have hailed the presidential directive that the ministry should facilitate the setting up of a national carrier.

According to them, the resuscitation of the national carrier has become imperative as it will enable the country to utilise its many BASAs. Such experts include: the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Bulejane Konzults, Mr. Chris Aligbe; President of Skyjet Aviation, Dr. Kassim Shettima; National President, Pilots & Engineers Association, Isaac Balami; aviation Analyst, Kingsley Chima; Chief Accountable Manager, DANA Air, Tony Mbanuzuo and another analyst Deba Uwadiae.

Aligbe, who is former spokesman of the liquidated NAL, berated those opposed to the proposed national carrier, describing their opposition against the project as misplaced and unpatriotic.

He accused those saying Nigeria does not need a national carrier of doing a great disservice to the country because such project will help to curb the billions of naira being taken out of the country by foreign carriers from ticket sales proceeds, the huge cost of offshore maintenance for aircraft and salaries and flight crew allowances paid to expatriate pilots, engineers and cabin crew members.

In a chat with The Nation, Aligbe said those speaking negatively about plans to set up a national carrier are fixating themselves in the past.

According to him, such people suffer from incurable fixation, which could further compound the woes of the aviation sector.

He said such fixation could discourage the government from setting up a national carrier, warning that such intervention could reorder the trend in the aviation sector through job creation, massive investment and human resource management.

He said the aviation sector faces a bleak future without a national carrier to fly the nation’s flag across the world and reverse capital flight.

Aligbe said: “Those opposed to the proposal are afraid of the nightmares of the past and therefore incurably fixated on how to stimulate the aviation sector. What they are saying about the past could be correct but what is the way forward.”

He said government could set up the new carrier without investing too much money, but create an enabling environment to allow it thrive through what he described as “sweat equity”.

Aligbe went on: “We do not have the discipline to run a governmentowned airline hundred per cent. The government should not own more that 25 per cent stake. It does not

THE NATION THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2015

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l Carrier...staging a comeback 12 years after •One of the plane in the fleet of Nigeria Airways Limited before its liquidation

need to throw money into the airline.

All it needs to do is have sweat equity.

“The government should allocate land for the floatation of the new national carrier, set up the team - I mean a technical team - people who know about airline business, allocate land to the airline in Abuja, Kano, Lagos and Port Harcourt for offices, designate the airline on major routes and ask all agencies to cooperate with the floatation.

“The government should go ahead and facilitate long term loans for the airline from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). It must be routed through the airlines bankers. The bankers must take that loan and pay back. It is not free money but a credit facility for a period of between 15 and 20 years at a repayment rate of single digit interest rate. All these can be facilitated by the government as its own equity stake in the business, without putting one kobo. It will have sovereign cover.”

Also speaking, Dr. Shettima, who welcomed the idea, urged the government to convoke a stakeholders’ forum to examine the intricacies involved in setting up a national carrier.

Shettima said: “In my own opinion, I think the President needs to be properly briefed with what the current situation is. He (President) needs to hear the truth and nothing but the truth.

“There should be a stakeholders meeting with the President where the he will meet face to face with players in the industry including unions and airline operators in Nigeria and so on.

“Does the President know the cost of running an airline now? Does it know that a national carrier will have to be given subsidy from time to time? Why do we have to re-invent what happened to Nigeria Airways?

“The President needs to have the forensic audit on why airlines in the country are often debt-ridden after venturing into the business. I hope it is not going to be business as usual because aviation is nothing but a serious business.

“This might be a nightmare. In as much as this is a good dream, sentiment must not replace reality like what we have presently in the aviation industry.”

NAAPE’s national president, Balami, said the establishment of a new carrier was long overdue because of the way the former national carrier was liquidated. Balami said: “Everyone who has been in, or around the aviation industry for a

From a fleet of 32 aircraft in 1999 to liquidation in 2003

T

HE carrier had accumulated significant debts that outstripped its revenues virtually from the mid-1980s. While 1,000 jobs had been cut by late 1986, Nigeria ordered the airline to reduce the number of employees — 8,500 at the time, with a staff-aircraft ratio of 500:1— even more, and also to reduce or discontinue unprofitable routes.

In 1988, cost-cutting measures led to the discontinuance of flights to a number of African destinations, including Cotonou, Dakar, Douala, Kinshasa, Monrovia and Nairobi; some of these routes were resumed a year later.

In April 2000, employment was 4,516. At that time, an Airbus A310-200, three Boeing 737-200 Advanced, one Boeing 747-200B Combi and one McDonnell Douglas DC-10-30, served a route network that included Abuja, Calabar, Douala, Dubai, Jeddah, Jos, Kaduna, Kano, Kinshasa, Lagos, Libreville, London, Maiduguri, Malabo, Port Harcourt, Sokoto and Yola.

That year, the International Finance Corporation (IFC) was commissioned by the Federal Government to assist in the process of restructuring and privatisation of the airline.

Among three options, one of them was to partner with a large European airline; Air France, Lufthansa and Swissair were all considered. Other option was while would easily agree that the illadvised liquidation of the defunct national carrier - Nigeria Airways, was the evil wind that has bedeviled the industry till date.

“And since the forced liquidation of the Nigeria Airways, no Nigerian Carrier has been able to go near its big shoes. None has even started to move in that direction “It is, therefore, with enthusiastic welcome, that one receives the news of the directive by President Buhari to the ministry of aviation to expedite action on the establishment of a new national carrier which can now spearhead Nigeria’s deserved quest for global reckoning in aviation.

“It is expected that the new carrier will strive for a mega carrier status which can compete at the global stage. It is also expected that a full scale Maintenance Repair Organisation (MRO) will be part of the deal for the new carrier.

“It is, however, important to sound this note of caution. Any idea of engaging a foreign airline, or foreign MRO as technical partner should be perished. This is because no sane business person who will encourage a viable competitor.

“Such partners will also not agree to terms that will give the new carrier an advantage over their vested interests in the airline business.

“It is sincerely hoped that the ministry of aviation will be open and transparent in the process of setting

to liquidate the carrier. A fleet comprising 32 aircraft in 1984 gradually depleted to a three-strong at that time.

The IFC withdrew from its advisory position in 2001 citing the unwillingness of both the company and the government to carry out the necessary measures that would make the airline attractive to potential investors. Likewise, there were various allegations claiming the airline’s failure was accelerated by former leaders, who looted and mismanaged the company.

In 1997, the United Kingdom (UK) Civil Aviation Authority had banned the airline from operating into its territory citing safety concerns; the Federal Government replied, banning British Airways operations.

The UK cited safety concerns again in 2001 when it refused to allow Nigeria Airways to operate the Lagos–London route, this time regarding the Boeing 747 that was leased from Air Djibouti to fly the route.

The carrier ceased operations in 2003. The Nigerian government later came to an agreement with Virgin Atlantic Airways to found Virgin Nigeria Airways, intended as a replacement, yet the ground facilities of the folded Nigeria Airways were eventually taken over by an indigenous airline that has dominated the business till date.

‘

It is expected that the new carrier will strive for a mega carrier status which can compete at the global stage. It is also expected that a full scale Maintenance Repair Organisation (MRO) will be part of the deal for the new carrier •President Buhari

up the new national carrier and will allow participation by genuine industry stakeholders.

“I, and my organisation – NAAPE

‘

- welcome this development enthusiastically. And we urge all industry operators to support it with every sense of responsibility.”

Another expert, Kingsley Chima, said: “Before this decision/directive, have we done a thorough autopsy on the reasons that led to the death of Nigeria Airways. National carrier is going out of fashion in this industry as it has been demonstrated in many quarters.

“National carriers succeed in countries where corruption is tightly managed as shown in the case of Ethiopian Airlines.

“When government starts appointing directors and they start awarding elephant/juicy contracts, the airline will gasp for breath and die.

“The operation cost is high and any cost that should be avoided must be avoided. But, with a national carrier in an environment like ours, I do not see this happening. We can only have a competitive national carrier when we make our airports efficient and effective.

“The government’s involvement must not be beyond 25 per cent share. The technical partners can own about 15 per cent stake and institutional investors taking the remaining. I am not optimistic but you never know.”

In his reaction, DANA Air’s Accountable Manager Mbanuzuo, said the government, rather than creating a new airline, should create an enabling environment for the expansion of existing airlines’ operation.

His words: “With no concrete information from the government, we are unable to make any comment although we feel that the government should create an enabling environment rather than actually running an airline.”

Uwadiae, who is an aviation analyst, urged government to be more circumspect before setting up such an airline.

He said: “Very simple. Until there is a fundamental attitudinal change towards what belongs to government whatever is set up as a Nigerian Airline will go the same way of the old airline.

“As long as I’m yet to see any concrete effort towards that change, I will advise President Muhammadu Buhari not to rush into it. Though, we need a national airline but at what cost will this be at this point in time, when the naira is counting at over N220 to $1?

“There are more fundamental needs of Nigerians than for the government to take up a humongous project of setting up a national airline again at this time or the next four years of President Buhari.”

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THE NATION THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2015

NEWS 1.5m IDPs in Nigeria, says UN Continued from page 1

•Vice President Yemi Osinbajo (right) with members of the Alumni Association of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies, Kuru, (from left) Comrade Isa Aremu, Alhaji Isa Ismaila Funtua and President of Institute MajGen.Lawrence Onoja during their visit to the Presidential Villa in Abuja ... yesterday.

PHOTO: AKIN OLADOKUN

EFCC moves in as $4.5b tax scandal hits agency Continued from page 1

tary and Chief Executive of NIPC when the tax holidays were given has also been questioned, The Nation learnt.”

Another source confirmed the invitation of no fewer than six top officials of the ministry and the NIPC. The source added: “The Special Assistant to a former Minister was invited and also quizzed over the issue and other cases involving some unrefunded monies paid in 2013 by the NIPC to the former minister.”

The former aide reportedly made “some useful statements and offered to make some re-

funds.”

When our correspondent sought clarification from the EFCC, a source said: “We are looking into some allegations on tax holidays involving some top officials of NIPC and the Ministry of Trade.”

But the source refused to disclose the list of those grilled and the 20 oil firms involved because “investigation is still ongoing”.

NIPC is the agency, which approves tax holidays under the Industrial Development Act for companies that are taxable under the Company Income Tax Act. NIPC was in the news a few

months ago for granting illegal waivers to oil companies taxable under the Petroleum Profit Tax Act between 2010 and 2014.

A former Executive Secretary of NIPC, Mrs Saratu Umar, was sacked at the twilight of the Jonathan administration for allegedly “refusing to grant tax holidays to some oil companies.”

Until the Tax Waivers were stopped last year, the nation lost huge revenue to the Federation Account running into billions of dollars.

On May 10, the former Coordinating Minister for the Economy and Minister of Fi-

nance, Dr. Ngozi OkonjoIweala, raised the alarm that the Federal Government had lost over $20b to tax holidays fraudulently granted companies by NIPC officials.

She said: “Pioneer status (tax holidays) was granted to companies whose products do not meet the requirements of the list of industries or products specified in the schedule to the Act. “NIPC officials granted tax holidays for a straight fiveyear period, contrary to the provision of Section 10 of the Act, which states that the tax relief period for a pioneer comContinued on page 58

How PDP was destroyed, by BoT chair Haliru Continued from page 1

tion.

He added that the development created crises of confidence among key stakeholders and eroded sense of belonging among many party faithful.

Mohammed said: “When the founding fathers formed the party in 1998, they established the principle of justice and equity whereby power resided with the people, who could decide who became what at any point in time.

“But over the time, the par-

ty swerved away and breached the principle thereby disrupting its internal democracy. When in 2011 the party abandoned its zoning formula, the party dealt on itself a major blow because that action served the first notice that it had disconnected with the masses. So we must go back to the culture of zoning and rotation of offices.

“The PDP remains the only true national party in the country with its flag in all nooks and crannies whose members are assured that they can al-

ways aspire to any available position as long as zoning and rotation hold sway as a cardinal policy of the party”.

He stated that it was high time the party addressed the situation where critical decisions were being dictated by the whims of a few moneybags and “higher bidders”, to the exclusion of other members.

“We must run away from a practice that leaves the party at the mercy of moneybags who, more often than not, seek to hijack the processes of the party at the detriment of pro-

moting genuine internal democracy through which only capable, credible and popular candidates can emerge to contest elections with assurance of victory”, he stated.

Harping on the need to respect the supremacy of the party, the BoT chair said elected and appointed office holders should not be allowed to dominate party decisions while party meetings should be restricted to party offices in the states and the national level.

“The policies and manifesto Continued on page 58

on ground as the crisis in the North-East is not publicised enough.

“Nigeria is the major contributor to peace keeping in the world, so the international community need to contribute more resources, step up their support and restore the livelihood of these vulnerable people.

“We need to come and help them, help their brothers and sisters and help them get a better future for their children.’’

Toure added that the major challenges facing the humanitarian community today was the lack of access to security

P

From Augustine Ehikioya, Abuja

Special Assistant on Media and Publicity to the President Mallam Garba Shehu, said he commended their determination to increase the participation of Nigerians in the country’s oil industry.

He directed the management of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) to work closely with the indigenous oil producers to resolve the problems which they enumerated to him.

“We have the manpower for a more effective participation in our oil industry. We will give you all possible encouragement. You certainly won’t be ignored under my leadership,” President Buhari told members of the association which represents about 20 Nigerian companies operating mainly on onshore fields.

President Buhari assured the Nigerian oil producers that the administration will take appropriate actions to maintain and enhance security in their areas of operation, noting that better security will help to lower production costs, which, he said, had become unnecessarily high in the country.

Mr. Austin Avuru, who spoke on behalf of the Nigerian oil producers, told the President of challenges currently being faced by the group such as security and the funding of joint ventures with the NNPC. He said the indigenous oil producers were already making significant contributions to the development of the econo-

my and could do more with the support of the administration.

Avuru, the chief executive officer of Seplat Petroleum, told reporters after the meeting that given the necessary backing, the Independent Petroleum Producers Group (IPPG) could raise Nigeria’s domestic oil refining capacity to 1.2 million barrels daily by the year 2020.

Stressing that IPPG is made up of indigenous companies responsible for over 200,000 barrels of oil production and over 900 million cubic feets of gas production per day, he said it is a very significant segment of the upstream sector of the oil and gas industry.

He said: “It was one of the points we raised with the President, we think that by 2020 domestic refining capacity should not be less than one million barrel of oil per day in domestic refining.

“We actually put 1.2 million barrels domestic refining capacity per day and that falls on

Continued on page 58

Constitution amendment crucial to anti-graft war, says EFCC

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HE Chairman, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) Ibrahim Lamorde, has said the amendment of the 1999 Constitution is important in the anti-corruption battle.

He made the submission at a one-day meeting of heads of anti-graft agencies on the United Nations Convention Against Corruption (UNCAC) Review, Recommendations and the Draft National AntiCorruption Strategy at Barcelona Hotel, Abuja He said some relevant laws in the Constitution needed to

be amended before the adoption of an action plan towards the fight against corruption.

He also said the effectiveness of any anti-graft activity could only be judged by the number of convictions recorded Lamorde said: “The Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria should be considered in whatever strategies being developed. ‘’The challenge my colleagues and I are facing, especially in the EFCC and ICPC, is the issue of prosecution of Continued on page 58

Presidency: don’t drag Buhari into ISIS chief’s visa crisis

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HE Presidency yesterday cautioned against dragging the name of President Muhammadu Buhari into the controversy over how a leader of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS), Ahmed Al-Assir, got a Nigerian visa.

A presidential spokesman, Mallam Garba Shehu, said yesterday that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which has demanded a report from the Nigerian mission in Lebanon, should be allowed to carry out the assignment.

Shehu said it was mischievous to drag the person of President Muhammadu Buhari into how the ISIS chief secured the visa.

Al-Assir, said to be the Chief Imam of ISIS was arrested on

Buhari to NNPC: work with indigenous oil producers RESIDENT Muhammadu Buhari yesterday assured indigenous companies operating in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector of the full support and protection of his administration.

He promised during a meeting with members of the Independent Petroleum Producers Association at the Presidential Villa, Abuja to do everything within his powers to address the challenges they currently face.

A statement by the Senior

and limited resources.

He called on stakeholders to mobilise themselves, unite and re-examine the reasons for the slow response and support needed to tackle the security challenges.

Earlier, Mr Muhammad Sani Sidi, the Director-General, National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), stated that the capacity to handle the present IDPs was not enough.

Sidi added that though a lot of effort and resources had been channelled towards the displaced persons, it was not enough because of their increasing population.

our doorstep as indigenous operators.

Asked how the target would be achieved, he said: “It will be achieved. Some construction is already ongoing by indigenous companies and between some others which are coming in with smaller sized refineries and in partnership with the NNPC. We are confident that by 2020 we will deliver 1.2 million domestic refining capacity.

“We thought it was necessary to engage the President, then fortunately the Vice President, permanent secretary, GMD of NNPC were all there.

So it was a very useful discussion.” he added Speaking further on the necessity of the visit to the President, he said: “Because if you watch the way the oil and gas sector is evolving, increasingly the key segments of the oil and gas industry, the onshore segment and the swamp, oil is now falling into the hands of Nigerian Independent, and Continued on page 58

From Yusuf Alli, Abuja

August 15 at Beirut’s Rafik Hariri International Airport in Lebanon on his way to Nigeria through Egypt.

In spite of being on the watch-list of Lebanon’s security services since 2013, Al-Assir was detected while holding a fake Palestinian passport with the Nigerian visa.

The Lebanese government accused him of involvement in the death of 17 Lebanese soldiers.

He was also sentenced to death in absentia by a Lebanese court.

But how he beat the visa process at the Nigerian Embassy in Lebanon is creating ripples in security circles.

Continued on page 58

Catholic bishops back Buhari’s anti-corruption battle Continued from page 1

18.

The communique, signed by the Most Rev. Gabriel Abegunrin and the Most Rev. Felix Ajakaye, President and Secretary, with the theme “Choose today whom you will serve” was made available to reporters by Rev. Ajakaye in AdoEkiti on Wednesday.

The bishops said: “We note the renewed hope for a new Nigeria generated in our country since the last general elections. We thank Almighty God for the relatively limited violence and bloodshed during the exercise.

“We call on our compatriots to cooperate with the current Continued on page 58

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THE NATION THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2015

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NEWS

NHRC may prosecute Madonna Varsity’s VC, others for ‘torturing’ students

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HE National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has said it will prosecute the Vice Chancellor of Madonna University and two other senior officials in relation to a case where some students were tortured on suspicion of being members of cult groups.

NHRC’s Executive Secretary Professor Bem Angwe said yesterday his commission might prosecute the officials if they failed to honour a fresh invitation to

•School’s officials face six months’ jail

First, the failure to appear before the commission, ‘when invited, is an offence in itself. It carries a penalty of six months’ imprisonment. After serving the punishment, we can still issue a bench warrant to compel the person’s presence here.

From Eric Ikhilae, Abuja

appear before the commission.

The commission, on Au-

gust 10, invited officials and authorities of the Army for two separate incidents of torture.

’

While the Army authorities were invited for the inhuman treatment meted out to a civilian in Nyanya,

•The Deputy Governor of Ekiti State , Dr Kolapo Olushola , Professor Deji Rufus Ogunsemi and Professor Adebiyi Daramola , Vice Chancellor shortly after Ogunsemi , a Professor of Quantity Surveying delivered the 71st Inaugural Lecture of the Federal University f Technology Akure with the title " Value for Money in Construction Projects : The Quantity Surveyor's Quest" ... on Tuesday.

PDP lawmakers promise credible opposition

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EMBERS of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the House of Representatives have promised to engage the Federal Government constructively.

The lawmakers said although being in the opposition was to them, having been ruling since 1999, the caucus vowed to provide a credible opposition in the House.

However, while backing President Muhammadu Buhari’s anti-corruption drive, its media group, led by Shawulu Rima (PDP, Taraba), told reporters in Abuja yesterday that the President had no right to define the period of his investi-

From Victor Oluwasegun and Dele Anofi, Abuja

gation of corrupt officials.

Rima, who was with other members of the group, said: “We, in the PDP, played a key role in the emergence of the House Leadership. Majority of our members voted for the Speaker, Yakubu Dogara and his deputy, Suleiman Lasun, and we are happy with the way they have conducted affairs of the House.

“We will continue to support them. We are not going to indulge in frivolous criticisms, we will support the government and will be a credible opposition.

“We are not going to behave as area boys in

criticising government. We won’t take actions as if we have a predetermined position, which can destroy the system”.

Noting that the investigation of corrupt official was a welcome development, Rima, however, said the caucus would not accept the investigation limited to certain individuals or the last administration.

“We support the agenda of the Federal Government to fight corruption; however we want the probe to be all-inclusive since there is no status of limitation to a crime.

“The President does not have the power to draw a line on the particular crimes he will prosecute. If he does that,

he will be flouting a section of the constitution.

“We caution the present administration to learn from the mistake of the then opposition in Ghana, which came to power and started prosecuting but lost out in national development, which led to its defeat in the subsequent election”.

Peterside hails NNPC’s transparency agenda

Buhari expected at Diaspora Day conference Tuesday

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R E S I D E N T Muhammadu Buhari is to open the 2015 Diaspora Day/ Conference next Tuesday.

Permanent Secretary (Political Affairs), Mrs. Ibukun Odusote, told reporters in Abuja yesterday at a press briefing on preparations for the event.

According to her, the conference, to hold at the old Banquet Hall in the Presidential Villa, would examine three areas; health, education and youth as well as sports.

Mrs. Odusote said the tar-

From Augustine Ehikioya, Abuja

gets set for the conference were clearly defined and geared towards supporting and enhancing the change agenda of the Federal Government.

The conference, she added, would have a key participant, a young Nigerian student, Mr. Ufot Ekong, who provided anwers to an unsolved mathematics equation of 30 years.

The permanent secretary said experts would speak on the different areas, with three panel sessions focusing on

sustainable health care in Nigeria, sustainable development through youth empowerment and enhancing education in Nigeria.

On Monday, August 24, she said a roundtable discussion programme would focus on investment opportunities in Nigeria.

The Diaspora Day was established by the Federal Government under former President Olusegun Obasanjo, to create a platform for Nigerian experts and professionals in the diaspora to interact with their home counterparts.

Abuja, by a soldier, and requested the culprit be identified, the university officials were invited for the torture of two students, Stanley Okoye, a 23-year-old finalyear Civil Engineering student and Ga-Lim Aondofa Lord.

Prof Angwe, who spoke in Abuja after receiving a team from the Army, said the vice chancellor had refused to appear on the excuse that the matter was in court, and that the commission should allow the court to handle it.

He said although the commission had issued the VC and his officials fresh invitations to appear on August 25, the commission believed the university authorities failed to appreciate the powers of the commission.

“The victims and their parents were here yesterday, but the vice chancellor and the two officials did not come. We received a letter from the vice chancellor, who said the matter is in court and that believes the Human Commission should allow the court to determine the case.

“We are not satisfied with that. It is not for the vice chancellor to write us that the matter is in court. They (the VC and two other senior officials) need to appear.

“We have given them a new date to appear on August 25. And if by that date the vice chancellor and the officials are not here, we are going to prosecute them.

“The vice chancellor acted in ignorance by not understanding that he is supposed to appear, and that if he has a defence, or the matter is in court, he should show us certified true copies of the processes in relation to the matter in court. It is for us to determine whether the subject matter is the same with what we want to deal with.

“If he does not appear on August 25, we will prosecute him for failing to obey a lawful directive issued by the commission. There are two options left for us if a person refuses to honour our invitation.

“First, the failure to appear before the commission, when invited, is an offence in itself.

It carries a penalty of six months’ imprisonment. After serving the punishment, we can still issue a bench warrant to compel the person’s presence here.

“We are not wasting time on issuing a bench warrant.

We will punish such a person first, for the offence of not obeying the lawful directive of the commission that he appears in respect of the complaint of right abuse against his organisation,” Angwe said.

He hailed the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) for the steps taken in the Nyanya case.

“We are satisfied with the way the authorities of the Army has handled the case.

“As soon as we communicated with the Chief of Army Staff and gave the Army 72 hours within which to identify the soldiers involved, the COAS, within two hours communicated to us to say they have indeed, found the culprit.

“That quick response was pleasing to us. Secondly, today, the COAS has sent a team of senior officers, led by a general. They also brought the culprit, who is attached to the Guards Brigade,” Angwe said.

The NHRC chief, who did not disclose the identity of the soldier, said the soldier was attached to the Guards Brigade.

He said the Army’s account on the Nyanya incident was that the civilian was caught by a mob while robbing, and that the soldier intervened to save the victim (the alleged robber).

“They said if the soldier did not intervene, the mob would have killed him. But, we have invited the victim, who will appear tomorrow.

This will enable use verify the story of the Army,” Angwe said.

Director of Legal Services, Nigerian Army Brigadier General Yusuf Shalangwa, who led the Army team, confirmed that the soldier had been identified and was being subjected to internal disciplinary measures.

Shalangwa said the NHRC would be informed about the outcome of its investigation and other steps the Army decides to take in the case.

•Peterside

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ll Progressives Congress (APC) Rivers State governorship candidate Dr Dakuku Peterside has praised the new management team of the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), headed

by Dr. Ibe Kachikwu, for promising a monthly publication of the corporation’s account.

Peterside, who was a

former chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Petroleum Resources, Downstream, said the corporation’s promise to open its books could not have come at a better time, given revelations of tardiness and impunity at the corporation.

“The new policy on transparency and due process by the NNPC has renewed hopes that Nigeria has all it takes to run a world-class company. This is most encouraging.

“No country or organisation can make any meaningful progress in an atmosphere of chaos and inconsistencies; vices, many believe, had pervaded the NNPC for many years.

Transparency in every organisation is key because it helps in measuring growth.

“I am happy that the troubled corporation is living up to public expectation in

line with the new change mantra of the APC–led government of President Muhammadu Buhari. ‘’I praise those behind these new initiatives, as the new ideas have can reposition the NNPC, if well implemented.

“But the drivers of this new vision should take a step further towards comprehensive reforms, especially with regard to business models. They should examine critically the corporation’s inherent contradictions essentially in the area of being a player and regulator, all at the same time.

“Steps should also be taken to get NNPC quoted on the stock exchange so that it can run properly as a viable commercial entity. ‘’This is the only way to turn around the fortunes of the NNPC”.

THE NATION THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2015

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NEWS

Wike fails to stop inspection of poll materials

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HE Rivers State governorship election petitions tribunal has rejected the prayer by Governor Nyesom Wike of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to prevent the All Progressives Congress (APC) and its candidate in the governorship election, Dakuku Peterside, from inspecting election materials.

The tribunal, yesterday, dismissed Wike’s motion, seeking, among others, an order staying the execution of the June 11, 2015, leave

From Eric Ikhilae, Abuja

granted the petitioners (APC and Peterside) to conduct forensic inspection of materials, pending Wike’s appeal.

The petitioners, were, by the June 11 ruling, required to inspect and obtain certified true copies of the materials, to be tendered as exhibits in support of their case that the election was marred by irregularities.

The tribunal held that Wike’s motion was deemed abandoned because his law-

yer, Emmanuel Ukala (SAN), chose to “dilly-dally” when given the opportunity to move it on Monday.

“The motion is deemed abandoned. He (Ukala) preferred to dilly-dally with the case. It is our considered view that in the circumstance the motion will not be determined on merit and same is hereby struck out,” tribunal Chairman Justice Mu’azu Pindiga said.

It also dismissed another motion by Wike, asking the tribunal to strike out the wit-

ness statements on oath made by some witnesses.

In another ruling, the tribunal refused the petitioners’ motion for an order directing the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to transfer materials used for the election to Abuja for ease of inspection.

The petitioners had complained that INEC was working with Wike and the PDP to frustrate their inspection despite the order it granted on June 11.

It said granting the mo-

tion would amount to it (the tribunal) varying its June 11 order allowing the petitioners to inspect materials, noting that they did not file any motion seeking to vary the order.

The tribunal also refused another motion by the petitioners seeking an order directing that notices of preliminary objections, filed or intended to be filed, by the respondents, should only be allowed in their final written addresses.

The tribunal held that the

motion had been overtaken by event, because some of such notices of preliminary objection had been heard and decided.

It rejected a motion by INEC for an order striking out the reply of the petitioners to its (INEC’s) response to the petition.

Justice Pindiga, who adjourned till next Monday, said two pending applications by INEC and Wike would be heard during hearing of the main petition.

1,959 flood victims in Akwa Ibom get N50,000 each

Crisis brews as Dogara moves to strip Lasun of powers

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KWA Ibom State government has provided financial assistance to 1,959 flood victims in Eket and Uyo, according to Mrs Sylvia Ekpo, Permanent Secretary, Deputy Governor’s Office.

Ekpo told reporters yesterday in Uyo that individuals not families benefitted from the financial assistance.

She said that each of the 1,959 victims received N50,000.

“The beneficiaries are those who made official reports to our office.

“The day after the flood, I and my boss went to the spot to assess the situation.

“In Eket we captured 1,670 names, while in Uyo we had 289 victims,’’ she said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), recalled that the flood was caused by torrential rainfall which occurred on June 29 that lasted for several hours.

Ekpo explained that victims, who reported their cases to the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) were the people eligible to benefit from the largesse.

“The government decided that instead of giving the victims relief materials, we should give them financial assistance,’’ she said.

She said that officials of SEMA visited the affected areas to assess the situation before capturing the victims that qualified for the assistance.

Police to residents: shun gifts from strangers

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THE Police in Bauchi have advised parents to caution their children on the dangers of accepting “sweets, chocolates and biscuit” gifts from unknown persons.

The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) in the state DSP Haruna Mohammed said in Bauchi yesterday that the advice had become necessary to safeguard children from people with evil intentions.

Haruna, who is embarking on a sensitization campaign in schools, also urged parents to monitor and ensure that their children related with a responsible peer group.

“Parents are advised to closely monitor their children, know their peer group and also discourage them from collecting gift items such as sweets, biscuits and chocolates from strangers ,as these are the easiest ways to initiate them into secret cults and other social vices,” he said.

From Victor Oluwasegun and Dele Anofi, Abuja

HE House of Representatives may be heading for another crisis when it resumes from its recess on September 29.

This is because the Ad Hoc Committee on Standing Orders raised by the Speaker , Yakubu Dogara, is set to reduce the powers of the Deputy Speaker, Yussuff Lasun.

The machinery for achieving this purpose is near perfection, The Nation learnt, as the committee has set the ball rolling in its report, which was laid before the House before it went on recess.

In one of its recommendations, the committee pro-

•Managing Director, Nigerian Liquefied Natural Gas(NLNG) Limited presenting a copy of Facts and Figures on NLNG 2015 to the Inspector General of Police, Mr Solomon Arase when he visited the police headquarters in Abuja.

110 million Nigerians are poor, says Osinbajo

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ICE PRESIDENT Prof.

Yemi Osinbajo yesterday said there are 110 million poor Nigerians.

He added that some past polices and planning, including budgeting, did not reflect the needs and conditions of the people, who have become disempowered.

He spoke while receiving the Alumni Association of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPPS), in Abuja.

Expressing concern about extreme poverty in the country, Osinbajo said two third of the population had become disempowered following the policy formulation in the past.

“When you look at the economic and social policies, and you look at the level of illiteracy, some are extremely bad and some with cases of about 80 or 90 per cent of children out of school, and other cases of unimaginable decayed infrastructure,” he said.

Stressing that policies

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From Augustine Ehikioya, Abuja

should address the needs of the people, he said the main challenge now is how to make this possible.

“Governments have not been accountable to the people, otherwise policies should have roots in the real condition of the people.”

The Vice President challenged the notion that a country could be described as rich when about two-thirds of its people were extremely poor.

He said one of the challenges of policy formulation is how to speak to the people and address their plight, adding that the people were concerned about “how do I get a meal, how do I get health care and how to send children to school.”

Vice President Osinbajo urged the Alumni Association to discuss how policy formulation ought to take root in the conditions of the people.

Speaking earlier, Presi-

•Osinbajo

dent of the association, Major-General Lawrence Onoja, appreciated President Muhammadu Buhari’s determination to fight corruption and reposition the economy.

He pledged the support of the Association for the actualization of what he called the Three-Point Agenda – Security, Corruption and Economy of the Buhari Administration.

Onoja urged the Administration not to only conduct a forensic audit of the government agencies but should jail all those found guilty of looting the country and seize the looted assets as well.

The Deputy Speaker then shall be the Chairman of the Committee of the Whole House, save when the House goes into the Committee of Supply or Ways and Means

posed that the Speaker should preside over the Committee of Whole, which is responsible for consideration of reports on bills and investigative hearing as provided by the Standing Orders of the Seventh Assembly.

According to the committee, Order 25 which provides that “the Deputy Speaker shall be the Chairman of Committee of the Whole House, save when the House goes into the Committee of Supply or Ways and Means,” should be amended.

Order 25 (i) which deals with the duties of the Deputy Speaker, states: “In the absence of the Speaker, the Deputy Speaker shall perform all the duties and functions of the Speaker.”

25 (II) further states: “The Deputy Speaker then shall be the Chairman of the Committee of the Whole House, save when the House goes into the Committee of Supply or Ways and Means.”

The move to whittle down the powers of the Deputy Speaker is being seen by some as part of a larger plan to reduce the influence of the Deputy Speaker in the Eighth House.

According to a source, the underlying reason might not be unconnected with the belief that Lasun’s benefit in the Eighth House far outstrips his contributions to the Dogara project.

However, sources said some elements in the erstwhile Dogara camp might be the ones pushing for the move to push Lasun into irrelevance.

Lasun appeared to hit the limelight with his emergence as the Deputy Speaker with a perception that he was little known in the Seventh House due to his being inactive.

However, against all odds and the negative perception, Lasun’s handling of legislative matters on the floor of the Green chamber has left no one in doubt about his grasp of his legislative duties. In the just over 50 days of sittings, Lasun presided over a Committee of the Whole House as well as presiding over plenary in the absence of the Speaker to the admiration of his colleagues and observers.

Dogara must have realised the qualities of his deputy as he delegated several assignments for Lasun to handle.

It was learnt the report presented to the House before its six-week recess promises to be contentious and will not be taken lightly by Lasun and his supporters .

Ayade abolishes taxes for low income earners

ROSS River State Governor Ben Ayade yesterday announced that low-income earners will no longer pay taxes.

Ayade told reporters in Calabar, the state capital, that a bill to this effect was before the House of Assembly.

The governor said the poor could not continue to suffer while the rich keep amassing wealth without giv-

ing back, describing the bill as people-oriented.

Those affected by the tax exemption policy include civil servants on minimum wage, petty traders, commercial motorcyclists and recharge card vendors, among others.

Governor Ayade said: “Let our desperation for taxation not allow us to heap the burden on the poor. This must stop. Definitely, God has a

purpose of bringing me here as a governor and I must not disappoint my creator.”

Continuing, he said: “I expect commercial motorcyclists to live within the confines of the law when the bill becomes operational as they will be expected to drive and earn a good living.”

He said plans have reached advanced stage to explore the state’s waterfront to generate

revenue to boost and cushion the effect of the new tax regime.

On the eight-month strike

by Judiciary workers, Ayade said the issue had been looked into as their salaries and other entitlements would be settled by end of August.

He urged them to reciprocate the government’s gesture by returning to work as soon as possible.

On the proposed signature projects, the governor said construction had commenced, adding that President Muhammed Buhari would perform the groundbreaking ceremony for the dual carriage superhighway in September.

Ayade hailed Buhari for displaying maturity in leadership by keeping to his promise of being a President for all.

THE NATION THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2015

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NEWS

APC, PDP trade words over call for Mimiko’s impeachment

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NDO State All Progressives Congress (APC) has urged the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)-dominated State House of Assembly to impeach Governor Olusegun Mimiko over alleged non-implementation of budgetary allocation.

It also accused the governor of deliberate killing of democratic institutions in local government areas.

APC, in a statement by its spokesman, Omo’ba Abayomi Adesanya, said: “It is now pe-

From Damisi Ojo, Akure

remptory for the Eighth Assembly lawmakers to commence the process of impeaching Governor Mimiko for misconduct, abuse of office and corruption.”

These acts, according to the party, have destroyed every sector, department, ministries and agencies in the state.

But the spokesman of the state PDP, Ayo Fadaka, described the call by APC as “petty and pedestrian”.

Fadaka explained that the inability of the state government to conduct local council polls was because of the suit instituted by the former state executive of Association of Local Government of Nigeria (ALGON), which has just been dispensed off.

He said the alleged corruption levelled against the governor and some government officials has not been proved.

Fadaka added: “It is just a mere rumour”.

The APC said the call be-

came imperative to salvage the state “from the imperial and dictatorial tendencies” of the governor, which, the party alleged, had plunged the state into serious indebtedness and untold hardship.

The statement reads: “The lawmakers must, as a matter of urgency and importance, and for posterity, impeach Mimiko from office as Ondo State governor for his inability to account for close to N1 trillion that has accrued to the state as monthly allocations,

local government allocations and oil derivation fund; N44 billion inherited from his predecessor (late Dr. Olusegun Agagu) and over N70 billion loans incurred by his administration in the last six years.”

Adesanya urged the lawmakers to be exceptional and courageous in their determinations to rescue the state “from the claws of the governor”.

He added: “We are aware that the leadership of the House has not changed from

the rubber-stamp Seventh Assembly, but the lawmakers must realise that they represent the electorate that have been impoverished by the anti-people policies and programmes of Mimiko-led government.

“We only advise you (honourable lawmakers) not to be dishonourable lawmakers by closing your eyes or pretend not to see all these atrocities committed and perpetrated by Mimiko to our dear state.”

Baba Sala responding to treatment, says UCH • ’To be discharged soon’ From Tayo Johnson, Ibadan

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•From left: Chairman, Board of Trustees, Association of Town Planning Consultants of Nigeria (ATOPCON) Mr. Waheed Kadiri; President, The Nigerian Institute of Town Planners Mr. Femi Olomola; President, ATOPCON Moses Ogunleye and President, Town Planners Registration Council (TOPREC) Prof. Layi Egunjobi, at the Seventh Annual General Meeting of ATOPCON in PHOTO: NAN Lagos...yesterday.

Groups partner to track Edo projects

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TRANSPARENCY advocacy group, BudgIT Nigeria, has partnered Omidyar Network to track capital projects listed in this year’s budget of the Edo State Government.

The group said it would use its “Tracka project” to ensure transparency in the state’s projects.

The partnership, according to BudgIT’s Lead Partner, Oluseun Onigbinde, will focus on 24 communities, where the

From Frank Ikpefan, Abuja

capital projects are located.

He said the partnership would have community tracking teams.

The company’s lead partner said “Tracka” would work with stakeholders in the community and civil society organisations (CSOs) as partners.

BudgIT is working with Kaduna and Edo state governments to ensure transparency in their projects.

Onigbinde, in a statement in Abuja, said “Tracka” would enable the residents to own and track capital projects in their communities.

He said: “Considering the challenge of transparency in the country, the most effective method to reach the masses is through the implementation of capital projects. Lots of funds are allocated as capital expenditure; yet, some projects are left undone. The plan is to follow up with the communities/

beneficiaries and facilitators of the project.

“The project will ensure feedback to citizens, using social media and also contact parliamentary, executive bodies and key institutions to close the feedback loop and aggregate feedback and build actionable intelligence for and from the institutions.

“As Nigerians, it is important that we ensure transparency and accountability regarding the use of funds.”

Why I rejected Fayose’s appointment, by ex-Speaker •Drama as Ekiti lawmakers amend Assembly commission’s law

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ORMER factional Speaker of Ekiti State House of Assembly Dele Olugbemi has justified the rejection of his appointment by Governor Ayo Fayose as a member of the House of Assembly Service Commission (HASC).

Olugbemi, who spoke in a telephone chat yesterday night, said he was embarrassed to hear his name on radio as being nominated as HASC member without his knowledge and consent.

He accused Fayose of running a “one-man show” and failing to carry the state Peoples Democratic Party along in making critical decisions.

Olugbemi said: “I’m a member of the appointment committee. I was shocked to hear my name announced on the radio as being appointed as a member of the commission without my knowledge.

“The governor’s action was against the ethos of democracy and he is simply running a one-man show. Since he came

From Odunayo Ogunmola, Ado-Ekiti

into office, he has been operating without regards to the party.

“I gave so much to defend his mandate, but he has shown me no respect at all. I was still wondering about the appointment when he sent a message to me that some people were interested in replacing me in case I reject the offer. Since he had decided to preempt my decision, I did not find it difficult to reject the appointment.

“All I did to defend him during the impeachment plot was to prevent the state from chaos. So, I have no regret.”

Olugbemi shunned the screening and confirmation of HASC nominees for two days - Tuesday and yesterday - by the state lawmakers.

The Assembly at yesterday’s sitting screened and ratified the four other nominees.

HASC members, whose nominations were confirmed, are former Speaker Olatunji

Odeyemi (Chairman), Bode Adewole, Mrs. Lanre Fajuyi and Muyiwa Fadahunsi.

There was also a disquiet at yesterday’s sitting over the manner the lawmakers amended Section 2 (4) of the State House of Assembly Service Commission Law 2003 (as amended).

Leader of Government Business Olatunji Akinyele (Oye 2) moved the motion for the amendment “to accommodate nominees from the three senatorial districts”.

The amendment was expected to be assented to by the governor before it takes effect, but it took effect immediately without the governor’s assent.

The amendment passed the first, second and third reading at the same sitting before being passed, an action which is believed to be “a record” in the history of the Assembly, as it was not subjected to any debate.

The sitting was comical, as the lawmakers started the session with Yoruba language,

switched over to English before they reverted to Yoruba.

Yoruba is the language for House business on Wednesdays, but some of the lawmaker struggled in conveying their thoughts in the native language.

Olugbemi played a pivotal role in the crisis that rocked the Fourth Assembly in which seven Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) lawmakers “impeached” former Speaker Adewale Omirin and “elected” Olugbemi in his stead.

He superintended over “screening” and “nomination” of three commissioner nominees and passage of the 2015 Appropriation (Budget) Bill into law alongside his six other PDP colleagues.

Olugbemi, who defected from the All Progressives Congress (APC) after Fayose’s inauguration, also played a leading role in ensuring that the Assembly complex was shut to prevent the governor’s impeachment by the 19 opposition legislators.

HE management of University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan said yesterday that ace comedian Moses Olaiya (aka Baba Sala) “is responding to treatment and getting better” after he was rushed to its emergency unit on Monday night.

UCH spokesman Mr. Deji Bobade said Baba Sala has passed the critical stage and “ate lunch this afternoon in a healthy manner”.

He said the ace comedian was brought into the hospital’s emergency unit with a serious condition, “but he has since being responding to treatment”.

“Our doctors, nurses and other healthcare delivery people promptly attended to him and others who were at the emergency ward as usual.

“Now, he is in a private section, where he is not to be disturbed.

He is doing fine. He is stable. I was with him this afternoon,” Bobade said.

He added that the comedian “is suffering from ailment relating to old age” and would be discharge soonest.

Baba Sala recently celebrated his 80th birthday quietly in Ilesha, Osun State.

His family members, friends and fans yesterday trooped to the hospital to see him.

Enugu monarch mourns Ooni

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N Enugu State monarch has described the departure of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Okunade Sijuwade, as “a fall of an Iroko tree” Igwe Charles Nwoye, the Obioha II of Amurri in Nkanu West Local Government Area of Enugu State, in a statement, by his media adviser, Nze Sam Nwanze, said the contributions of the late monarch to the peace and development of the country and Yoruba tradition and culture, “cannot be forgotten in a hurry”.

“Ooni Sijuwade was a colossus and one of the highly respected royal fathers in the country. He championed many peaceful and development initiatives in his domain and beyond, which is why he will be greatly missed not only by

•The late Oba Sijuwade From Damisi Ojo, Akure

Yoruba people or those directly under his influence, but by many Nigerians across the nation who saw in him a reference point of tradition and culture and as father of all.

Nwoye, who a successful business man, prayed God to grant the Ooni eternal rest “as he joins his ancestors after 85 years on earth”.

FERMA begins repair of Federal roads in Ekiti From Odunayo Ogunmola, Ado-Ekiti

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HE Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA) has started repairing some federal roads in Ekiti State to bring relief to motorists and commuters plying them.

Ifaki-Ikole-Omuo-Kogi State boundary road, which is “receiving the immediate attention of the agency”, is the busiest federal road in the state.

Apart from serving as the link road to the Federal Capital Territory, the road also serves as alternative route to motorists and commercial drivers going to Abuja from Kwara State, who now avoid Egbe-Kabba-Okene portion because it had remained impassable.

FERMA’s executive management team led by the Executive Director (Administration and Human Resources Development), Degi Eremienyo, was on hand to assess the extent and quality of work done.

Eremienyo hailed the agency’s officials in Ekiti for the work done so far.

The team also inspected other critical roads in Ekiti to assess the extent of damage and propose possible measures to mitigate the situation.

The state’s FERMA’s Maintenance Engineer, Emmanuel Onu, said the repair “is being carried out to save critical washouts and failures on federal roads due to the effect of the rains”.

THE NATION THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2015

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NEWS Oyo APC confident of victory at tribunal •Party: Ladoja’s forensic expert is laughable From Oseheye Okwuofu, Ibadan

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YO State All Progressives Congress (APC) is confident of winning in Senator Rashidi Ladoja’s suit brought before the governorship election petitions tribunal.

The party said already, its members and well-wishers were assured that the outcome of the April 11 governorship election was the “actual reflection of the majority votes cast by the people”.

Its spokesman Olawale Sadare, in an interview with The Nation, said there was no cause for alarm because the party actually won the majority votes at the election.

Sadare hailed the tribunal for dismissing Ladoja’s application seeking to invite a forensic expert - to stand as witness.

Ladoja, who was the candidate of Accord in the election, is challenging the declaration of Governor Abiola Ajimobi of the APC as the winner.

Sadare noted that the listing of a cashew farmer by Ladoja as forensic expert in the tribunal was laughable.

Sadare said: “Before now, they had listed one Mr. Bimbo Adepoju as their forensic analyst and the court had admitted that. Now, they want to bring in another set of individuals, whose names were not included in the list of witnesses after the pre-hearing had been concluded. This, according to law experts, is fundamentally wrong. On that premise, the tribunal declined to accommodate their request.

“Now, they are left with a man who our lawyers crossexamined and found to be a cashew farmer to function as a forensic expert.

“I don’t know how a farmer can qualify to be a forensic expert. Even, if they were allowed to bring in any forensic expert - whether he is an expatriate or a local - we have a rock-solid case, which they can never win.”

One feared killed in Ogun dispute

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NE person was feared dead and others injured yesterday during a confrontation between suspected land grabbers and residents of Oke-Ore community in Atan, AdoOdo/Ota Local Government Council of Ogun State.

It was gathered that the suspected land grabbers had stormed the rustic community with weapons, ostensibly to enforce a court judgment over a controversial land.

But a detachment of soldiers stormed the area and

Ernest Nwokolo, Abeokuta

arrested the suspected leader of the gang, identified as Mutairu Owoeye.

He was handed over to the police.

A leader in the community, Chief Amosun Yomi, told reporters on phone that a fight ensued when Owoeye led his gang in company of some policemen to the area to enforce the court judgment.

He said: “We were not aware of any court judgment.

The development unsettled us as they started shooting indiscriminately. A stray bullet hit one 18-year-old Bidemi Akinde, who went to eat and he died immediately.

“A relation of the boy, who is a captain in the Army, was contacted and his arrival paid off as Owoeye was arrested.

With the dead boy’s body, we went to the Police Area Command at Ota. “As it is now, we are in fear of another attack by Owoeye’s boys on the communi-

ty.”

The community’s Iyalode, Chief Olufunmilayo Idowu, who decried the incident, pleaded with the state government and security agencies to come to the aid of the residents.

Police spokesman Olumuyiwa Adejobi, who confirmed the incident, said preliminary report indicated that Owoeye and his boys stormed the community.

He said those found culpable would not escape justice.

Lagos releases JSS1 placement test results

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AGOS State has released the result of the placement test conducted on July 11 for admission into the state’s public junior secondary schools.

A statement by spokesperson of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Mrs. Adewunmi Okoh, directed head teachers of public schools to check results of their candidates at their Local Government Education Authorities (LGEA).

She urged approved pri-

From Damisi Ojo, Akure

vate schools to check the results at the State Examinations Board located at Iyana Ipaja.

“Parents/guardians can check the results of their pupils/wards at their schools,” Mrs. Okoh said.

The board has denied the rumour making rounds about recruitment into public primary schools and warned the public to beware of scam.

Ogun condemns SERAP over petition to UN Rapporteurs

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GUN State Government has condemned the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) over its petition to the United Nations (UN) Rapporteurs on the state’s sacked education officials.

In a statement by the Secretary to the State Government, Taiwo Adeoluwa, the government accused SERAP of jumping the gun and crying more than the bereaved.

“Had SERAP examined and understood the facts that led to the decisions of the Ogun State Civil Service Commission, it would have appreciated they were not even remotely connected with the constitutionally-guaranteed rights to freedom of thought, conscience and expression or academic freedom, which formed the kernel of its petition to the UN Special Rapporteurs,” the statement said.

The state government wondered if SERAP had studied the provisions of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) in relation to disciplinary control over civil servants.

“Had SERAP looked before leaping, it would have realised that by virtue of Paragraph 2, Part II, Third Schedule of the 1999 Constitution, the Ogun State governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun,

From Damisi Ojo, Akure

could not have played any role in the disciplinary measures against the workers,” Adeoluwa said .

“In the light of the foregoing, government advised the civil society group to approach the Ogun State Civil Service Commission for relevant information in order to be well guided,” he added.

• Apapa Branch Manager of Keystone Bank Morufat Ogunfemi; National Women Affairs Secretary Nasrul-lahi-l-Fatih Society (NASFAT) Alhaja Samiat Omolara-Mumini; Chief Missioner NASFAT Society Worldwide Sheikh Abdulahi Gbade Akinbode and Divisional Head, Product and Market Support Keystone Bank Temitayo Olutoye at the NASFAT 16th Annual Women Week PHOTO: ADEJO DAVID on “Entrepreneur Remolding Women Perception” in Lagos...yesterday.

Osun ’ll soon be out of cash crisis, says Rep

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MEMBER of the House of Representatives Alhaja Ayo Omidiran, has predicted that Osun State will soon be out of its economic crisis.

She said with the beginning of implementation of the communiqué of the stakeholders’ conference held on August 10, in Osogbo, the state is set for an economic turnaround.

The conference was organised by the Osun Legislators’ Forum and attended by public office holders and civil servants.

Top players in the organised labour and private sec-

tor also attended, the event, where decisions on the way forward were taken.

Mrs. Omidiran, who represents Irewole Federal Constituency, was one of the prime organisers of the conference.

She said Governor Rauf Aregbesola has started to implement the meeting’s outcome.

“The idea behind it was for us to bring the ideas together so that the state can harness its resources to continue to move forward. We were happy the governor supported it and put all the government machinery behind it.

We are confident the outcome will positively influence the state,” Mrs. Omidiran said.

Osun is one of the states badly hit by the financial crisis that followed the drop in oil prices, which adversely affected the cash flow into the nation’s treasury.

The state is just clearing the backlog of salaries to its workers.

The communiqué of the conference read by the representative of the labour unions at the meeting, Mr. Richard Afolayan Oyegbami, recommends that: * government should plug

the loopholes in the way revenues are collected; * Osun people must pay taxes and rates before being compelled to do so; *the need to review the cost of governance, particularly to ascertain accurately the recurrent expenditure. *government should embrace public private sector partnerships in agriculture, mining and tourism; *government should patronise competent local contractors to deepen the state’s economy; and *parents should contribute a token to augment the free education programme.

No Boko Haram threat in Ondo, says govt

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HE Ondo State government and the Headquarters 32 Artillery Brigade, Nigerian Army, Akure have described as untrue, a report that suspected Boko Haram members were arrested in the state.

Commissioner for Information Kayode Akinmade, in an interview with reporters in Akure, said the state remain the safest and most peaceful in the country.

Akinmade said there was no record of any arrest as reported with the police and the military He added that the security meeting, which the report was hinged on, was a routine monthly security meeting, which the governor had since ordered must hold between

•Army: we didn’t arrest suspects the chairmen of local government areas and heads of security agencies in their locality.

He mentioned that there are series of such security meetings that hold regularly at different levels on the governor’s instruction to ensure the maintenance of peace in the state.

Akinmade said: “It is misleading and unfortunate that some people will allude the reason for a regular meeting on security matters in the state to the imaginary influx of Boko Haram members.

“The meeting is not new as it has been holding before now and it will continue to hold because it has proved

useful in the course of ensuring adequate security in the state.”

Insisting that there was no threat to the peace of the state, he said adequate measures were being taken to ensure security of lives and property, adding that “there is round the clock screening at every entry point to the state by joint security patrols”.

Urging the people to go about their normal business without fear, he assured that “Ondo has what it takes to maintain its most peaceful status as the various arms of the security agencies have been cooperative”.

Also, the Assistant Direc-

tor, Army Public Relations of the Artillery Brigade, Captain Ojo Ifedayo Adenegan, in a statement, said: “The news story was not true, as no Boko Haram suspects were arrested anywhere in Ondo State”.

The statement reads: “The Commanding Officer 323 Artillery Regiment Lt. Col. W. O. Ubi was in a sensitisation forum with the members of National Union of Road Transport Workers and other security agents at Ikare Akoko, where he had an interactive session on the need to be vigilant and keep the security informed on any suspected persons or actions that could lead to the threat of security in the state.

“During the interactive ses-

sion, he only recalled an effort by a commercial driver at Ifedore, who alerted soldiers at a check-point on some suspected persons who were later arrested and handed over to the appropriate authority for further investigation. That was in June.

“We were surprised that such an advice could be misquoted. Therefore, we are once again informing the general public that no arrest of Boko Haram suspects anywhere in Ondo State.

“We are using this medium to appeal to the general public to discard such untrue information and go about their normal legal business and be assured that the security agencies in the state will continue to secure the state.”

THE NATION THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2015

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NEWS Council to evacuate flood victims From Adamu Suleiman, Sokoto

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EN thousand people are to be evacuated from 20 flood-prone communities in Wurno Local Government Area of Sokoto State.

The Caretaker Chairman of the council, Alhaji Shehu Chacho, who addressed reporters yesterday in Wurno, the local government headquarters, said the affected communities included Gidan-Kamba, Gidan-Bango one and two, ‘Yar-Wurnoni, Gidan-Modu, Lahodu, Tunga, Barayara Zaki, Arba, Koliyal, among others.

He said a meeting was convened to discuss the planned release of excess water from the Goronyo dam by the Sokoto Rima River Basin Development Authority (SRBDA).

According to him, the need to evacuate residents was a proactive measure to minimise destruction, adding: “The people in these communities have to be evacuated to primary schools, government quarters and other government buildings.

“This action becomes necessary to prevent the loss of lives and property.”

Police parade two suspected cultists in Ilorin

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HE Kwara State Police Command yesterday paraded two suspected cult members for allegedly conspiring to kill a woman by drugging her drink before stealing her belongings.

The suspects are Adeniyi Sijibomi, 18 and Tosin David of Eiye confraternity. Their victim was Bidemi Adewole.

The police also paraded Adeniyi Sijibomi, 18 and John Onucho, 25, as some of the suspects behind last weekend’s clashes in Ilorin.

Parading the suspects with three others arrested for

From Adekunle Jimoh, Ilorin

criminal conspiracy and theft of vehicles, police spokesman Ajayi Okasanmi said the suspects mixed a pain killer called Tramadol with a bottle of Lacasera, which they used to drug their victim before committing the crime.

He said: “On August 18, in a bid to arrest the perpetrators of last weekend’s cult clashes in Ilorin, which led to the killing of two young men, the command, in addition to the suspects earlier

arrested, nabbed Adeniyi Sijibomi, 18, and John Onucho, 25.”

Okasanmi said two locally- made pistols, two live cartridges and one expended cartridge were recovered from the suspects, who, according to him, “are members of the Eiye confraternity.”

The police also paraded three suspected car snatchers, Kehinde Olumo, Alhaji Oba Suleiman and Olayinka Jimoh, who allegedly conspired to steal and buy stolen cars.

Okasanmi said: “Through

the efforts of the men of the command’s Intelligence and Investigation Department, members of inter-state vehicle thieves, especially from Lagos, Ogun and Oyo states, were arrested in Ilorin on August 17 by the anti-car theft division of the command. Investigation showed that the suspects are car snatchers.”

He added that the suspects led the team to recover five posh cars from different locations, including Mazda 626 car registered as MUS C95 DC and Rav 4 Toyota Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) with number plate ARP 123 MY.

Ahmed: IGR drive ‘ll boost growth

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WARA State Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed has said his administration’s revenue drive would generate funds for developmental projects, stimulate the economy and create jobs.

Speaking at an interactive session with community leaders in his office, the governor said his administration planned to create new infrastructural projects to promote the welfare of the people, stimulate commerce and attract investments that would create a conducive economic environment for job creation.

He stressed the need to grow internal revenue and place less emphasis on federally-allocated revenue, which he noted, had dropped and was unlikely to return to the previous level in future.

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HE Gombe State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) has provided relief materials for victims of Sunday’s morning flood at WuroDole in Akko Local Government.

The SEMA Relief and Rehabilitation Officer, Mohammed Garba, who presented the materials yesterday, said they were at the village the previous day to take stock of the damage and sympathise with the victims.

He said the agency’s findings showed that the flood affected 46 houses.

Garba, who spoke on behalf of the SEMA Executive Secretary, Dr. Danlami Arabs Rukujei, urged the people not to see the relief materials as compensating their losses, but an attempt to meet their needs.

From Abdulgafar Alabelewe, Kaduna

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From Adamu Suleiman, Sokoto

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By Vincent Ohonbamu, Gombe

ACF mourns Bauchi monarch

Flood: N5.3m canoes, sandbags bought ANOES and sandbags worth N5.3million have been bought by the Rabah Council in Sokoto State to avert flood, the Caretaker Chairman, Alhaji Zayyanu Gandi, has said.

Gandi, who addressed reporters in Rabah yesterday, said the council purchased 33 canoes and 20,000 sandbags to prevent flood.

He said the canoes would be distributed among the flood-prone communities in the 11 wards in the area for the transportation of people, livestock and farm produce, adding that sandbags would also be distributed.

SEMA provides relief materials

•From left: Plateau State Deputy Governor Prof. Sonni Tyoden, Governor Simon Lalong and Australian High Commissioner to PHOTO: NAN Nigeria, Mr. Jonathan Richardson, during his visit to the governor in Jos...yesterday.

Five dead in Bauchi flood, says agency

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AUCHI State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) said yesterday that the heavy rain from last Friday and Monday claimed five lives.

Two of the victims were from Dambam Local Government in Bauchi Central and three from Tafawa Balewa Council in Bauchi South.

A SEMA official, Abubakar Umar, said: “In Dambam Local Government on August 16, following a downpour, which caused the washing away of houses and farm land, the daugh-

From Austine Tsenzughul, Bauchi

ters of Hamisu Saleh, Salamatu, 7, and Halima, 4, were carried away by flood when their house collapsed.

“Their mother, Hamisu, sustained injuries. She also fainted, but was revived in hospital.”

SEMA’s interim report said 600 houses were washed away.

Relief materials, such as rice, corn, guinea corn, clothes, mattresses among others, have been sent to the victims.

Kogi 2015:Wada seeks another term

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FTER months of speculations, Kogi State Governor Idris Wada has formally declared that he will seek re-election.

A statement by the Government House said the governor accepted to seek re-election, following the pressure mounted on him

by Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) elders and other stakeholders.

Wada was quoted to

From James Azania, Lokoja

have said: “The words of our elders are words of wisdom.

I’ve come to appreciate in the last few weeks that before elders speak, they must have used experience, patience, candour and courage.

“This latest gesture by our leaders has added to the weight of responsibility that I shoulder. My pledge

is to surpass your expectations, God helping me.”

The statement added that the stakeholders, besides endorsing Wada as the party’s candidate ahead of the November 21 governorship poll, also agreed that power rotation be entrenched in the state body politics.

They resolved that after the tenure of the incumbent, power should rotate be-

Kogi aspirant gets backing

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•Wada

tween the West and Central senatorial districts.

Assembly approves conversion of N5b outstanding salaries

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HE Kwara State House of Assembly yesterday approved the conversion of the over N5 billion, being outstanding salary, pension and gratuity of council workers, to the Federal Government’s bailout loan.

The approval will, according to the lawmakers, enable the third tier of government to benefit under the bailout arrangement of the Federal Government.

From Adekunle Jimoh, Ilorin

The Assembly’s approval followed the presentation of Governor AbdulFatah Ahmed’s message by Speaker Ali Ahmad on the floor of the House.

The governor said the debt profile of states and local governments, especially on salary, pension and gratuity, had been submitted to the Federal Government, stressing that the approval of

the Assembly was a prerequisite to access the loan at the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

The Speaker urged the council chairmen to use the bailout loan for the intended purposes, saying the House would not condone the diversion of the loan to any developmental project.

He assured that relevant committees of the Assembly would monitor its implementation to ensure compliance.

REWA Consultative Forum (ACF) has expressed shock at the death of a Bauchi State monarch, the Emir of Misau, Alhaji Muhammadu Manga III, who died on Monday.

The northern socio-cultural group, in a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Muhammad Ibrahim, said: “ACF learnt with total submission to the will of Allah (SWT), the death of the Emir of Misau, Alhaji Muhammadu Manga III, on Monday.”

It described the late monarch, who ascended the throne in 1979, as a promoter of peaceful coexistence.

The statement reads: “The late Emir aged 79 had been on the throne since 1979. He devoted his life to the progress of his people in agriculture, education and socio-economic development of the Misau Emirate and Bauchi State.

The Leader of the House, Hassan Oyeleke, said the request was necessitated by the inability of the local governments to pay outstanding salary, pension and gratuity, adding that the loan, repayable within 20 years, had a digit of nine per cent interest rate.

Oyeleke, who said no conventional bank was ready to offer such facilities, enjoined members to grant the request, noting that no allocation of states and councils could address the problem.

GROUP, the Kogi State Power Shift Ambassadors, has congratulated a governorship aspirant in the All Progressives Congress (APC), Alhaji Suleiman Baba-Ali, on his performance during the screening of aspirants.

The screening was conducted by the Kogi Central and West Forum for Equity and Justice.

Presenting the congratulatory letter, the founder of the group, Comrade Abdullahi Onumoko, described Baba-Ali’s victory as a boost towards the realisation of power shift to other zones.

The power shift ambassadors, according Onumoko, have been at the forefront in the fight against domination by a particular zone.

“We have been championing the call on Kogi Central and West people, irrespective of tribe, to come together and claim their destiny by ensuring that power shifts to these zones in the interest of equity.”

THE NATION THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2015

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NEWS Alleged cultism: Three caught initiating 35 students From Osagie Otabor, Benin

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HE Edo State Police Command has arrested three suspects for allegedly initiating 35 students of various tertiary institutions into cultism.

The suspects were reportedly arrested at Ogbese Forest in Ovia Northeast Local Government Area.

The police gave the names of the suspects as: Kingsley Nwachukwu, Amoo Oboba and Innocent Essien.

Fifteen of the students were said to be from the same institution.

The suspects were allegedly moving from one state to another to initiate students into cultism.

Policemen were said to have caught them during the initiation ceremony, following a tip-off.

The suspects allegedly attempted to flee the scene on sighting the police.

Edo police spokesman Stephen Onwochei, a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP), said a locally made revolver and three live cartridges were recovered from a car belonging to the suspects.

Onwochei said the police would investigate cult-related activities and robbery because of the high rate of armed robbery in the area.

He said the suspects would be charged to court.

PDP seeks dismissal of petition against Akpabio HE Peoples Demo-

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cratic Party (PDP) has urged the Akwa Ibom State Legislative Election Petitions Tribunal to nullify the proceedings it has so far conducted on the petition challenging the election of former Governor Godswill Akpabio, as the senator representing Akwa Ibom Northwest.

The PDP, in a fresh motion filed before the tribunal, sitting in Abuja, argued that the tribunal lacked the jurisdiction to hear the petition on the ground that the petitioner wrongly applied for the issuance of pre-hearing notices.

The party also prayed tribunal to dismiss the petition, ar-

From Eric Ikhilae, Abuja

Ikwerre leaders, IYM threaten N2b suit against anti-Amaechi campaigners

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HE leaders of four Ikwerre-speaking local government areas of Rivers State and their youths’ movement (IYM) have threatened to file a N2 billion libel suit against a group, Integrity Group Organisation (IGO), for allegedly publishing defamatory statement against former Governor Rotimi Amaechi.

IGO, a non-governmental organisation (NGO), published on August 3 an advertorial that the former governor allegedly embezzled billions of Naira belonging to Rivers State.

The group is said to be supporting Governor Nyesom Wike to fight his opponents.

The four Ikwerre-speaking local government areas are: Obio/Akpor, Emohua, Ikwerre and Port Harcourt City.

They share the same cultural identity.

guing that it is deemed abandoned since the petitioners failed to comply with the legal requirement for the application of pre-hearing notices.

The candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Inibehe Okori, and his party are challenging the election of Akpabio, who is Minority Leader of the 8th Senate.

PDP, named as the third defendant in the petition, argued that the petitioners failed to properly apply for the prehearing session, as required by law, before going into the hearing of the petition.

From Precious Dikewoha, Port Harcourt

Reacting yesterday in Port Harcourt, the state capital, to the advertorial, leaders of the four local government areas and IYM said they had asked the NGO to produce the evidence on the allege fraud within seven days.

On behalf of the four local government areas, Emohua Local Government Area’s Chairman Lucky Worluh said the Ikwerre would file a libel suit against the NGO to prove Amaechi’s innocence.

The spokesman said the action would be taken against the NGO and its sponsors, if it failed to back the libellous publication against Amaechi with a genuine document before the expiration of the ultimatum.

He said leaders and elders

of the four local government areas and the leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) supported the legal action to defend the former governor, who brought honour and development to Ikwerre land.

Worluh said: “We do not only condemn the unholy allegations against Amaechi but we also challenge the leader of the unregistered NGO, Mr. Livingstone Nwejie, his paymaster and sponsors to make public all relevant documents relating to the allegation within seven days of this publication.”

The spokesman noted that Rivers State Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its leaders were only interested in how to bring Amaechi down.

According to him, with his (Amaechi’s) rising profile across Nigeria, especially for

leading an armless revolution that ousted former President Goodluck Jonathan and heading the campaign that brought in the Muhammadu Buhari administration to power, it should be expected that the PDP would mount more smear campaigns against Amaechi.

IYM’s National President Azubuike Wanjoku said the Ikwerre ethnic nationality would not allow what it called a dubious publication to insult and blackmail the former governor.

He said: “We wish to state categorically that the Ikwerre ethnic nationality, Rivers State and Niger Deltans are indebted to Rotimi Chibuike Amaechi to have offered his life to lead a common sense revolution against the Jonathan administration...”

NGO issues 14-day ultimatum over Bonga oil spill From Bolaji Ogundele, Warri

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NON-GOVERNMENTAL organisation (NGO), Oil Spill Victims Vanguard (OSPIVV), has threatened to shut down all facilities belonging to Shell Nigeria Exploration Production Company (SNEPCO), if it fails to pay within 14 days a fine of $3,600,191,206 to victims of the 2011 Bonga oil spill.

In a letter by its Executive Director, Harrison Jalla, the NGO stressed that after investigations, the Federal Government, on December 19, 2014 levied $3,600,191,206 on the company, with a 14-day ultimatum to pay the victims in about 350 communities along the Atlantic Ocean’s coastline in Delta and Bayelsa states.

An oil spill occurred at SNEPCO’s Bonga Oil Field on December 20, 2011, where 40,000 barrels of crude oil spilled into the Atlantic Ocean, following the alleged failure of the company’s equipment when it was loading.

The letter said the spill covered 185 kilometres along the coast of Ekeremo, Southern Ijaw and Brass local government areas of Bayelsa State and Warri Southwest, Warri North and Burutu local government areas of Delta State.

It polluted farmlands, vegetation, contaminated environments and forced fishermen out of business.

Ladoja’s aide debunks rumour of assassination attempt

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N aide to the former governor of Oyo State, Sen. Rashidi Ladoja, Mr. Sunday Adeyemo had debunked the rumour going round in the media that he has relocated to United Kingdom for safety due to some assassination attempts on his life.

Speaking with journalist in Ibadan, Adeyemo said he was surprised when he received different phone calls from all parts of the country that he has relocated to United Kingdom for safety.

In his words “I have not relocated to United Kingdom. I am in Nigeria with members of my family enjoying ourselves. I move around the country freely without anybody or group of people threatening me”.

Adeyemo further disclosed that he has not travelled out of

From Tayo Johnson, Ibadan

the country in the last five months and there had never been a single reported case of assassination attempt on his life.

He further stated that the rumour that is being speculated in the media has a political undertone, urging members of the public to disregard such informed that he has relocated from Nigeria to United Kingdom.

He also maintained that he has a good working relationship with his boss Senator Rashidi Ladoja saying that he is a worthy ambassador of the state.

He also enjoined members of the press to shun sensational journalism and embrace professionalism by confirming the authenticity of their report before going to press.

• From left: Executive Director, Technology and Ops, Nigeria Interbank Settlement System Plc (NIBSS), Niyi Ajao; Second runner-up, Jerry Boakye-Mensah; Representative of Director, BPSD, Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Isa Abubakar; Grand prize winner of Electronic Payment Incentive Scheme (EPIS), Adeyinka Adejuwon; Executive Director, Business Development, NIBSS, Christabel Onyejekwe and first runner-up, Chioma Ukwosah, at the CBN EPIS raffle draw cash reward presentation in Lagos...yesterday

Oyo stops payment of WAEC fees

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HE Oyo State Government yesterday announced stoppage of payment of the Senior Secondary Certificate Examination (SSCE) for public school pupils in the state.

The decision is among the measures taken to address the poor performance of students in the public examinations being conducted by the West African Examination Council (WARC) and National Examination Council (NECO).

Head of Service Mr Soji Eniade, in a statement yesterday, pointed out that the measure would enhance quality education in the public school system.

Consequently, each pupil

From Bisi Oladele, Ibadan

us to pay N3,000 as Education Development Levy per session.

The statement entitled: “Efforts of Oyo state government to Address Poor Performance of Students in Public Secondary Schools”, said: “Government has stopped further payment of WAEC registration fees with effect from 2015/2016 academic session. This is as a result of poor financial status of the state government coupled with the lackadaisical attitude of parents and students to promotion of quality education”.

On the education levy, the HOS said, “A sum of N3,000 only will be paid per student

‘

Government has stopped further payment of WAEC registration fees with effect from 2015/2016 academic session. This is as a result of poor financial status of the state government

’

on annual basis as Education Development Levy. Payment would be in three equal installments of N1,00” per term.

Fund gathered would be utilized to complement

government’s effort in the improvement of infrastructure in public secondary schools”.

Aside the financial aspect of the repositioning, the government said there would be enforcement of 80 per cent attendance of pupils in schools; cancellation of automatic promotions; reinvigoration of extra-mural classes, as well as establishment of zonal education monitoring committees to bring a halt to truancy among students, “ The release noted that government has perfected arrangements to partner with stakeholders in the management of public schools.

Why Alaibe, others dumped PDP, by Bayelsa group

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RESH facts have emerged on the defection of a former Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Mr. Ndutimi Alaibe, with Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, Col. Sam Inokoba (retd) and others to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

A socio-political group, Bayelsa for Good Governance (BGG), claimed that the erstwhile Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) members

defected to APC to “escape” Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) arrest.

In a statement by its chairman, Mr. Perefini Ebiye, BGG said the EFCC was beaming its searchlight on Alaibe as a former NDDC chief; Lokpobori, as a former Chairman of the Senate Committee on Sports and Col. Inokoba (retd.), as the former Chairman of Bayelsa State PDP. The statement said the

EFCC, in line with President Muhammadu Buhari’s zero tolerance for corruption, was investigating the activities of some of the defectors when they were in office.

It noted that if found culpable, they may be charged to court.

The group said it was the danger the former PDP members saw ahead that compelled them to defect to APC, to escape arrest by the antigraft agency.

Apparently rattled by the

decision of the politicians to dump the PDP, the group said it saw an implosion in Bayelsa State APC, as also predicted by political pundits.

The PDP had said the Transition Ambassadors of Nigeria (TAN), which former First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan allegedly floated, was set to dislodge the APC faction, led by former Governor Timpere Sylva, from picking the governorship ticket.

THE NATION THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2015

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BUSINESS THE NATION

E-mail:- bussiness@thenationonlineng.net

‘It is regrettable that the damaging consequences of the Ecowas CET policy on the local pharmaceutical manufacturing sector in Nigeria were not considered despite our desperate attempts to draw attention to this. This policy undoubtedly spells doom for the local industry as imported medicines will become far cheaper than locally produced ones’ Chairman, Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Group of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (PMG MAN), Mr. Okey Akpa

N183.7 billion: NDDC faults AGF’s report

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HE Niger Delta Devel opment Commission (NDDC) yesterday faulted the Auditor General of the Federation’s report which claimed that N183.7 billion could not be accounted for by the commission.

The Auditor-General of the Federation, Mr. Samuel Ukura, told journalists in Abuja after submitting three special reports to the National Assembly that N183.7 billion could not be accounted for between 2008 and 2012 audit years.

But NDCC’s Executive Director, Finance and Administration, Dr. Henry Ogiri said the report by the AGF was premature and did not follow the ethical standards of accounting profession.

Dr. Ogiri questioned the timeliness of the report and its motive, adding that the AGF was only playing to the anti corruption tune of President Muhammadu Buhari by releasing the report.

He wondered why the AGF had to wait five years to audit the commission’s account, adding that the report, which covered 2008 – 2012, did not fall under the current management of the commission.

Ogiri,who spoke on Focus Nigeria, a weekly programme on African Independent Television (AIT), described the queries in the report as ‘ridiculous,’ adding that the commission will respond to the queries raised by the AGF’s report.

From Frank Ikpefan, Abuja

He said: “The report did not conform with ethical practices in the accounting profession.

It is premature because it has not gone through the process yet. For a report to be meaningful for whatever reason management or board or government will need to use, it must be specific, it must be measurable, it must be accurate, it must be reliable and it must be timely.

“A five-year report will not be very reliable and accurate for making decisions in 2015.

And so I believe strongly that the Auditor General’s report is out of tune with the ethical profession of accountancy discipline.

“This is a 307 pages document with so many queries with some of them trivialities. But we are determined to respond to them to show that we are in good faith; we are managers indeed and we will take responsibility for explaining the records as far as the records are available.

“Can we be able to say for certain about the allegation of extra budgetary allocation from which from his report they actually traced the projects done but that money were spent when budget has not been passed. He has reported that as part of the missing money, N90 billion. His argument in his report is that while these payments were made there was no budget.

“Let me go to some of the

AGF: NDDC yet to reply to indictment

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EEKS after the Audi tor General of the Federation indicted the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) of not accounting for N183.7 billion the NDDC is yet to respond to the indictment.

A statement released yesterday by the Office of the Auditor General of the Federation (OAuGF) and signed

by Ogunmosunle, O.A. for the auditor general stated that “at the time of this Press Release, the NDDC is yet to respond to the Special Periodic Checks.”

The statement noted that “it took NDDC, 16 months to grant the Office permission to commence the periodic checks

beginning from 9thDecember, 2011 to 6th May, 2013. Similarly, it took another 16 months and several reminders to the NDDC with effect from the 24 th of April, 2014 to 12th August, 2015 before the final report was submitted to the National Assembly.”

The auditor general decried media reports alleged to be engineered by the NDDC “denying and casting aspersions on the Special Periodic Checks recently submitted to the National Assembly.”

The Office of the Auditor General said it stands by its report and its contents despite “the negative sentiments occa-

sioned by the NDDC’s condemnation of the Special Periodic Checks in various media calculated to demean the efficacy of the Constitutional mandate carried out by the Office of the Auditor-General for the Federation.”

The statement maintained that “the Office of the AuditorGeneral for the Federation has a constitutional mandate to submit its Reports to the National Assembly and in doing so, due process are usually followed.”

The NDDC was reminded that if it “is not satisfied with the contents of the Special Report it has the opportunity to defend itself before the Public Accounts Committees (PACs) of the National Assembly.”

other specifics from which clearly we have replied as well; the N70 billion. Now the auditor general has re-

ported that N70 billion was diverted by that management, not our management.

“We have a compendium of

projects where advance payment guarantees (APGs) were applied. The total APG value covered by this report

From Nduka Chiejina (Asst. Editor)

is in excess of N70 billion. Of that N70 billion, only N11.7 billion is the amount as at when we concluded our audit, our forensic investigation, from which monies have been paid to the bank but the contractors are yet to mobilise to site. The N11.7 billion is not missing, it is in the bank. We held a meeting and involved our legal department to write to the contractors to refund the monies if they fail to mobilize to the site.

“We have started the recovery the money. We have dedicated a special account in Heritage Bank on all recovery of APGs. We are not spending it.

These are issues we met on ground. The issue of N70 billion pocketed or diverted or missing is completely out of place even though it was done by previous management. The N70 billion is not missing that I can say with all degree of certainty.

How to fund economy, by AfDB

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HE Africa Develop ment Bank (AfDB) has advised the Federal Government to develop multiple financial instruments to get funding for the basic sectors of the economy.

Its Country Director, Dr. Ousmane Dore said the move is important to boost and sustain Domestic Resource Mobilisation (DRM) of the nation.

In a document titled, Domestic Resource Mobilisation for Nigeria’s Development: Need for National Compact against Illicit Financial Flows, made available to The Nation yesterday in Abuja, Dore said the country has abundant resources, adding that what is needed is supervision of how funds are used.

Dore said: “DRM in Nigeria is characterised by several stylised facts that reinforce the need for renewed focus on the issue.

First, the economy exhibits narrow tax base, with oil and gas sector accounting for 75 per cent to 80 per cent of total tax receipts.

From Olugbenga Adanikin, Abuja

“So, it is constrained by poor financial market instruments. For example, Nigeria sits on large financial resources such as the Pension Fund with N4.7 trillion assets, but financial instruments for deploying these funds to the needed sectors in the economy are very limited.

• From left: The Divisional Police Officer, Ogudu Police Station, Mrs. Chioma Ajunwa-Opara; an official of the National Lottery Regulatory Commission, Mr. Calix Ita; one of the winners of the grand finale of First City Monument Bank (FCMB), Millionaire Promo, Mr. Bathlomew Ekwe and the Regional Director, Lagos of the Bank, Mrs. Bukola Smith, during the draws ceremony...yesterday.

Bristol helicopter crash: Leadway, Scib lead insurer, broker

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EADAY Assurance Lim ited and Scib Nigeria Company Limited are both lead insurer and broker of the Bristow Sirkorsky S76 Helicopter that crashed into the lagoon in Lagos last week, The Nation has learnt..

Both firms confirmed via Sms text messages that the aircraft was insured in Nigeria and the premium paid up to date, adding that the aircraft was insured in Nigeria by Nigerian underwriters, led by Leadway and that the contract has both

By Omobola Tolu-kusimo

local and foreign reinsurance backing. They were however silent on the sum assured, Meanwhile, efforts to confirm sum assured and other type of insurance claim available to the victims proved abortive as the company’s Public Relations Officer, Cornelius Onuora, was yet to respond to inquiries as at press time.

The Managing Director, Leadway Assurance, Hassan Odukale, said the aircraft was insured in Nigeria by a panel of

Nigerian insurers and the contract was handled by Scib Nigeria Insurance Brokers.

On the details of the contract, Odukale replied : “Yes we are leading the panel of underwriters with Scib Nig & Co as the broker.As per ethics of our profession, we would suggest you approach the brokers for information on the claim.This is already in public domain and I agree with you that the public should be informed,” Odukale stated.

When contacted, the Managing Director, Scib Insurance Brokers, Mr Sola Tinubu, who said he was

on a trip outside Lagos referred our reporter to the General Manager and Head of Technical of the company, Ayo Akande, who was not on seat, but in his SMS response on the details of insurance of the aircraft, he said: Akande confirmed that the aircraft was insured.

He said: “The insurance was arranged by Scib Nigeria and Co Ltd.The programme is written by a panel of local underwriters and offshore reinsurers.

“The insurance is fully compliant with Nigerian laws and regulations as well as international

standards and requirements .This is the information available at this point in time”, Mr Akande said.

Based on the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) global requirement for insurance claims, a minimum of $100,000 is to be paid to the family of each passenger who died in plane crashes. Thirty per cent of the total claims, or $30,000 per head, is expected to be paid within 30 days of the loss as the initial liability, while the balance is to be paid after the presentation of letters of administration by the victims’ family members.

ITF’s skills acquisition scheme for internally displaced persons begins

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HE Industrial Training Fund (ITF) has finalised plans to commence a skills acquisition project for Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) in Nigeria.

The initiative, according to its Director-General, Mrs.

Juliet Chukkas-Onaeko, is in line with the Federal Government’s commitment to the reduction of poverty and crime across the country.

She spoke when she paid an unscheduled visit to the camps of the internally dis-

• CPC opens Consumer Voice on TV placed persons in Jos. Meanwhile, Consumer Protection Council (CPC) said it will begin a consumer education television pro-

gramme today to equip consumers with the necessary skills for market interactions.

In a statement, CPC said the new move was designed

to raise the bar of consumer education for Nigerian consumers to assume their rightful kingship position in their interactions in the market place.

The ITF chief assured the IDPs that the agency, in

line with its mandate, would provide vocational and technical trainings and help open up employment opportunities, noting that the training programmes would kick off very soon.

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THE NATION THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2015

CITYBEATS Cleric seeks divorce from fourth wife after 31 years of marriage

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•The suspects...yesterday

Petrol dealers arraigned for selling ‘stolen fuel’

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HE police yesterday arraigned two petroleum product dealers, Lookman Onabanjo and Lukman Eluku (both 52), at the Federal High Court in Lagos for allegedly dealing in fuel loaded from vandalised pipelines.

The two, said to own petrol stations, were arraigned on three counts each before Justice Mohammed Yunusa.

Onabanjo is said to be the Chief Executive Officer of Gaffa Oil and Gas Limited, while Eluku runs Bugon Oil and Gas Limited.

Eluku was arraigned along with Solomon Afolabi (30) and Adesimisola Ogunsanya (36).

By Joseph Jibueze and Ebele Boniface

The judge ordered that they be remanded in prison custody pending hearing of their bail applications.

Also arraigned for similar offences were Sani Idris (34) and Bode Jonah (39).

The police said Onabanjo and others, on August 15, were caught with 16,000 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) loaded in several 50litre jerry cans.

Prosecution counsel M.O. Omosun said the product belonged to the Pipeline and Product Marketing Company (PPMC).

He said the accused persons dealt in the product, said

to be worth N1.55million, without valid licence.

Eluku and his co-accused were accused of illegally loading 25,000 litres of PMS valued at N1.6million from a vandalised pipeline into a Mercedes truck with registration number APP 04 QX without obtaining lawful permit from the PPMC. The alleged offences contravene Section 3(6) of the Miscellaneous Offences Act Cap M17 of the Revised Edition, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, Act, 2007 and punishable under Section 17(b).

All the accused persons pleaded not guilty.

Their lawyer Mr. McAnthony Aikharialea said he

had filed a bail application Justice Yunusa adjourned to August 28 for ruling.

Similarly, Police arrested three persons - Jamiu Ajani, Demola Lawrence and Raymond for allegedly dealing in stolen petroleum products from vandalised pipelines.

The Special Task Force on Pipeline Vandalism said 300 50-liters jerry-cans, loaded with PMS were recovered from them.

They were intercepted at Owode area of Ikorodu in a Chevrolet truck, while transporting the ‘stolen products’ to their buyers.

The force commander, Olumese Valentine, said members of the syndicate operate within Ikorodu axis.

Lagos terminates N50m shopping complex lease

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AGOS State Governor Akinwunmi Ambode yesterday terminated the concession granted by the Lagos State Development and Property Corporation (LSDPC) to Afriland Properties for the redevelopment of the Falomo Shopping Centre in Ikoyi.

The Governor said the decision was carried out based on a recent discovery that the concession was grossly detrimental to the interests of the people.

According to him, only N50 million was paid by the concessionaire, Afriland

By Miriam Ekene-Okoro

Properties, for a 50-year lease of the property belonging to the government.

He said government as custodian of the interests of Lagosians is committed to the restructuring of the LSDPC to ensure it begins to provide positive capital returns for the ultimate benefit of Lagosians.

Governor Ambode two months ago, relieved former Managing Director of the LSDPC, Mr Biodun Oki of his appointment, just as he appointed Mr Jacob Agosu in acting capacity.

The move, he said, was aimed at stemming the tide of negative capital returns of the corporation.

Afriland Properties Plc is a property management, investment and development company, offering end-toend services along the real estate value chain, from management to joint-venture investments.

On its website, it says it has a portfolio size of over N10 billion and one of the largest land banks in Nigeria.

In April, Afriland Properties announced a profit before tax of N1.74billion for the year ended December 31,

2014.

The company is run by the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Mrs. Uzo Oshogwe, who is said to have joined the company when it was still known as UBA Properties.

Also on the management team is Mutiu Bakare, who is the Chief Financial Officer.

The company is chaired by Angela Adebayo, was quoted as saying that the upturn in company’s net earnings “is attributable to improved operational efficiency and focus on value creation.”

65-YEAR-OLD clergyman, Olowolade David Laizer, is seeking divorce from his fourth wife, Esther, after 31 years of marriage.

Laizer, who has six wives, told a customary court sitting in Ikorodu, yesterday, that the 55-year-old Mrs Laizer lacks respect for the house of God. The clergyman alleged that his wife rains curses on his church at the slightest provocation and had denied him conjugal rights for over a year.

Laizer said their problems started when they lost their first son in 2013.

The deceased was a university student, but died after a brief illness.

“There was a parental dispute between her family and mine when we wanted to get married, so, we had to do two separate introductions.

She even said I would die within three years if I di-

By Robert Egbe

vorced her,” Laizer said.

Mrs Laizer, a teacher, said her husband preaches about her in the church.

She said: “He says all sorts of things about me in his sermons. Yes, I’ve denied him of sex for over a year now because he said my private part is smelling...after 31 years of marriage and five children!

“Four days after I lost my son, his sixth wife came into my room and took my pant and bra. I don’t know what she used it for, but she returned it later. She also cooked for me and put six pieces of meat in the soup. I refused to eat it because I don’t know what that meant for or who sent her.”

The court’s president, Olu Adebiyi, encouraged both parties to keep the peace and told them to come with their family members on September 14, for possible reconciliation.

Man in court for indecent behaviour

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52-YEAR-OLD man, Maxwell Ekwueme, has been arraigned in a Yaba Chief Magistrate’s Court, Lagos, for allegedly touching the breast of a 10year-old girl without her consent.

The accused, who resides at Tola Oduntan Street, Shomolu, Lagos, is standing trial on a count-charge of sexual abuse.

Prosecuting officer Rita Momah, said that the accused committed the offence last Wednesday, around 2pm, at his residence.

She alleged that the accused, a co-tenant, saw the

10-year-old girl cleaning dishes and suddenly covered her mouth with one hand, and indecently pressed her breast with the other hand.

The prosecutor explained that the accused was apprehended when the 10-yearold girl reported the incident to her parents.

The prosecutor said that the offence contravened Section 135 of the Criminal Laws of Lagos State.

He pleaded not guilty.

Magistrate F.A Adeeyo, granted the accused N200, 000 bail with two sureties in the like sum, and adjourned the case till October 26.

Employee nabbed for ‘stealing’

By Esther Unachukwu

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N EMPLOYEE of Pathway Financial and Consultancy Services Limited Joesph Esemogie has been arraigned before an Isolo Magistrate’s Court, Lagos, for allegedly stealing N1,175,000 belonging to the company.

Esemogie is facing a one count charge of stealing.

Prosecuting Sergeant Oje Uagbale told the court that Esemogie committed the offence in March at Remilekun Street, Surulere, Lagos.

Uagbale said the accused was employed to collect funds and loans from customers, but decided to convert the money to his own personal use.

The accused pleaded not guilty.

Magistrate Joy Ugbomoiko granted the accused N20, 000 bail with two sureties in the like sum.

She adjourned the case till September 14.

Woman weeps to save marriage

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•From left: Afribaby Initiative President Dr Odion Odiboh; Permanent Secretary Lagos State Health Service Commission Dr Ibironke Sodeinde; Afribaby Initiative Executive Director Mrs Olayinka Odiboh; Afribaby's Infant Nutrition Consultant, Mrs Maria Obi-Perez and others at the Afribaby Sensitisation event on exclusive breastfeeding at Ifako Ijaiye General Hospital, Lagos.

58- YEAR-OLD trader, Mrs Morenikeji Awotedun has pleaded with an Alagbado Customary Court, Lagos to save her 44year-old marriage.

Mrs Awotedun wept while responding to her husband’s allegations that she turned their children against him and being diabolical.

She said she and her husband lived happily as a family before another woman came in between them.

“There was a day I caught another woman with him which made us at loggerheads for a while. Our families have intervened. My first son and I reached all his friends for reconciliation but to no avail. “I am not fetish.

I did not do anything to him.

By Basirat Braimah

In fact I still love him,” she said in tears.

A 65-year-old retired pilot, Tajudeen Awotedun, has gone to the court to dissolve their union.

“Since I left the house, none of our children asked about my wellbeing let alone where I live. There was no father-children relationship between us and they all have their own families,” he said.

Mr Awotedun said since it was revealed to him spiritually that his wife wants to kill him, he stopped eating her food or related with her.

“Things were not the same anymore. I don’t wish to be with her anymore.”

The court’s President, Dr Rasaq Adeyeri, adjourned the case till August 24.

THE NATION THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2015

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THE NATION THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2015

THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2015

15

THE NATION

BUSINESS ENERGY

E-mail:- energy@thenationonlineng.net

Manufacturers spend over N4b on diesel O yearly, says MAN

VER N4billion is spent yearly by manufacturers under to procure Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), the President of Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Dr. Frank Jacobs Udemba, has said.

Udemba told The Nation that the manufacturing sector spends the huge cash on diesel monthly, adding that the figure translates to an average of over N4billion when multiply by 12 months of the year.

He said manufacturers invest on power devices such as UPS and inverters to keep some equipment working and further prevent loss of valuable data because power supply in the country is unreliable. He added that

By Akinola Ajibade

their members spend a chunk of that money on fuel to power their generators to stay in business.

He said low metering coverage and the consequent dependence on estimated billing from distribution companies (DISCOs) has resulted in rise of costs in the power sector.

He explained that low electricity generation is affecting power distributed to consumers, stress-

ing that when electricity generation improves, supply would also improve.

Udemba said: “The country generates less than 5,000 megawatts (Mw) of electricity for its over 160million population. In a big country like Nigeria, we still struggle, fumble and wobble on 4000 megawatts and below. This does not and cannot go anywhere in meeting the energy requirements of the teeming populace.

The sector would be able to employ more people if reasonable

electricity supply is made available to them. But there is nothing like that for now.”

According to him, the sector is yet to guarantee power supply, two years after private investors bought the unbundled assets of the Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN), adding that the operation of the power firms is fraught with problems including technical and commercial, among others.

Penultimate week, Vice President Yemi Osinbajo held a

meeting with Dr Sam Amadi, chairman, National Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), representatives of power Ministry, MAN and other stakeholders on the need to develop a framework for the creation of micro grid for industrial clusters across the country.

At the meeting, a special committee with nomination from the Commission will be coordinated

by MAN since its members will be the major beneficiaries of a stable power supply.

This happened, amid announcement by the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) of increase in generation from 4,517 megawatts to 4,545 megawatts in two weeks.

Lagos calls on Nigerians to conserve energy

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HE Lagos State Government has called on residents to cultivate the habit of conserving energy to promote energy efficiency.

The General Manager, Lagos State Electricity Board (LSEB), Peter Okonji, who stated this at a conference organised by the Power Sector Group of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), said there was need for energy conservation in the country.

He said electrical appliances are supposed to be switched off when not in use, but regretted that Nigerians do not switch off their bulbs after business hours.

“If we conserve energy, we will reduce the demand of energy and have higher voltage of energy for other purposes. The available power is not enough for all Nigerians if we switch on all our bulbs. So it is important to practice power conservation. For every watt that is wasted, it is money we are wasting.”

He said Lagos is a 24-hour commercial centre, but darkness has forced businesses and other activities to close early due to insecurity which darkness conveys. He said: “Captive power has helped to power Lagos State facilities and we opted out of the national grid so that there will be enough power for the rest of the citizens in Lagos State.

Constantly powered economy will provide efficiency and stimulate productivity.

“Power demand for Lagos State is 10,000Mw after our last audit in June. The national grid can only

By Emeka Ugwuanyi

transmit about 10 per cent of what we required. However, our five Independent Power Plants (IPPs) which include Akute IPP, Island Power, Mainland Power, Alausa Power and Lekki Peninsula IPP, are together generating 47.5MW to power government facilities like water corporations, general hospitals, the secretariat and state High Courts,” he said.

The President of LCCI, Remi Bello said the theme: “Embedded power generation and the economy” of the event was germane at this critical stage of the economy, knowing that the increased power generation and distribution play a significant role in the development of our economy.

“The economy can truly be an investors’ haven if the issues around the power sector are holistically addressed. We expect to see government provide an enabling environment for private sector investment in the embedded power generation sector,” he said.

According to the rules by Nigerian Electricity R egulatory Commission (NERC), embedded power regulation allows an independent power producer to embed power within the network of the local distribution company without going through the trouble of connecting to the transmission line, he added.

Nestoil to deliver multi-million dollar gas pipeline in 2016

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ESTOIL, a local oil firm, is set to deliver multi-million dollar gas pipeline in 2016, the Group Managing Director, Obijackson Group, Dr Ernest Azudialu Obiejesi has said.

The group is the parent company of Nestoil that is building the pipeline.

Obiejesi said the pipeline known as OB3 pipeline is 48 inches by 67 kilometres, will help in transporting gas to power generation plants to improve electricity generation and supply.

He said the pipeline would help in delivering gas to power plants located in the Niger Delta region and other parts of the country.

Obiejesi said the pipeline is one of the major projects being executed by the Group, adding that

By Akinola Ajibade

the project was part of efforts to contribute to the growth of the nation’s energy sector.

He said: “The pipeline known as OB3 is 48 inches by 67 kilometres. The pipeline is scheduled for completion in the first quarter of 2016. When the pipeline is completed, it would help in transporting gas from all the fields towards Oben across the Delta and to Escravos –Lagos pipeline where gas is supposed to be evacuated for the West and the Northern regions.

He, however, said the completion of the project may be delayed till first quarter of 2017 in the event there are problems from the communities where the pipeline would pass.

•From left: President, Polo Club of Port Harcourt, Mr. Anthony Isodje; Managing Director SPDC and Country Chair Shell Companies in Nigeria, Mr. Osagie Okunbor; Trustee of the club, Senator Emmanuel Diffa; and a club member, Ms Alison Allanso, during a visit of the club executives to the SPDC Head Office in Port Harcourt.

‘880,000bpd of crude coming from offshore fields’

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HE Energy Research group of Ecobank Development Corporation (EDC) has projected additional production of 880,000 barrels of oil per day from Nigeria’s offshore fields over the next three years.

The Head, Energy Research, Ecobank Development Corporation, Dolapo Oni gave the hint when he spoke with The Nation. He said there are about 15 major offshore oil fields, which if effectively implemented, would add about 880, 000 barrels per day over the next three years.

The 880,000bpd, he said, doesn’t include production from divested assets, fields that will be re-entered, and output from marginal field operators and other indigenous companies.

Oni, however, said the move by oil companies into the deepwater region will come with more costs; therefore, the industry will require a higher amount of capital and could potentially see its financing needs rise by over 40 per cent due to the higher cost of assets development.

He told The Nation in Lagos that the upstream segment required massive investment in various oil and gas infrastructure including

•IOCs may divest from 12 oil blocks

By Ambrose Nnaji

pipelines, flow stations, modular refineries, NLNG Train 7 and the Brass LNG. Also, the Trans Saharan Gas Pipeline, which according to him would create another exit for the Nigerian gas to Europe, will be very significant for the country in the long term.

He said the country has about 5,000 kilometres of gas pipeline that needed to be funded adding that most of the new pipelines will be channeled towards liquefied natural gas (LNG).

“The other major pipeline we have is the Escravos that will take gas from the Niger Delta to Lagos. It needs some major investment and this will manifest within the next two years,” he said.

According to Oni, there is an indication that the International Oil Companies (IOCs) will divest at least 12 more oil blocks before the end of 2019. He said the divestment will come from onshore blocks that are in troubled areas and assets that lie close to some independents.

Asset divestment by the IOCs, he said, will continue as there are still many oil blocks in troubled areas,

adding that indigenous companies will have to play the exploration game at some point. “At the moment, indigenous companies only buy fields that already have certified reserves, and into production,” but indigenous firms have to play the exploration game,” he added.

He said there are about 33 operational rigs, both onshore and offshore, that would bring massive change in the industry as the country starts to move into the deepwater, adding that there is need to get semisalt terrains into the industry.

On financing, Oni said Nigerian banks have increased their share of lending to the oil sector in line with growth in their tier 1 capital. He said though some banks are now able to provide up to $500 million to oil and gas transactions, but it is still small amount compared to the size of funding structures required in the industry. “Nigerian oil and gas companies urgently need equity. The dependence on debt is unsustainable. Debts can be used at any stage with companies that have very stable high volume production, but often through a borrowing base structure,” he added

THE NATION THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2015

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ENERGY Sahara’s project produces alternative energy

‘Increased gas supply boosts Y output from Egbin Power’

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MPROVED gas supply to power stations has helped to substantially increase the power generation from Nigeria’s biggest power station, Egbin Plc, it was learnt.

The Chief Executive Officer, Egbin Power Plc., Mr. Dallas Peavey told The Nation that the impressive electricity supply being experienced by consumers, especially in Lagos State and other surrounding states, is due to increased gas supply and huge investment in new and upgrade of power infrastructure by the owners of the company, Sahara Power Group and the Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO).

Peavey said Egbin generates and supplies over 1,100 megawatts (Mw) of electricity to the national grid and hopes to reach plant’s installed capacity of 1,320Mw or a little below it. He assured that if gas supply is sustained, the output from the power plant would not only be sustained, but well exceeded.

By Emeka Ugwuanyi

He said the 1,100Mw generation was attained last month and the company is gradually exceeding it, adding that in no distant time, the company will be generating the plant’s 1320Mw installed capacity and that will be good news for electricity consumers.

“We want to help the government to achieve its aspiration of providing stable power supply to Nigerians,” he said, adding that Egbin was generating below 500Mw when the private sector investors took over in November 2013.

Peavey said after the current owners acquired Egbin, they commenced upgrade and replacement of obsolete and dysfunctional equipment and materials. “We have injected about N50 billion into Egbin post-privatisation. We have brought unprecedented innovation, professionalism, human capital development and new

technology into the power plant,” he said.

He continued: “For instance, the control panels installed when the plant was built has been removed and upgraded to state-of-the-art digital panels. The main rehabilitation occurred in the first quarter of 2015, when the company successfully rehabilitated the plant’s unit six steam turbine (ST06), which added 220Mw to the plant.

“We also restored the capacity of some of the units that were working below capacity and other ancillary equipment and materials. I assure you with these developments, Egbin Power Plc is now equipped to generate power at its installed 1,320Mw capacity.

“Remember that the management is working on further expansion of the plant to achieve its vision of attaining 2,670Mw by 2017 and total capacity of over 10,000Mw in the next decade, if the demand permits.”

OUNG inventors at the second edition of the ‘Sahara Light Up Nigeria Challenge’ in Lagos, have proffered alternative and renewable energy sources that have the potential to enhance eco-friendly and sustainable electricity supply in Nigeria.

The competition, a yearly event hosted by Sahara in partnership with ENACTUS Nigeria, seeks to inspire students of tertiary institutions across the nation to explore opportunities for achieving sustainable power supply within their environment. It also serves as Sahara’s contribution to the growth of the Power sector where it has affiliates in the generation and distribution sectors through the Sahara Power Group.

The contest involved the development of simple power models that can reduce production cost and encourage the broad utilisation of different energy sources to power communities and schools.

Kaduna Polytechnic’s Renewable Energy Advancement Project (R.E.A.P) emerged as the winning entry in the competition that had impressive projects from 28 schools.

The Kaduna Polytechnic team created a self-running hydro-power system that runs solely on the kinetic energy of water. The energy produced is stored in a 75-litre en-

closed water tank that houses a pump and other materials required to drive generation of electricity.

The technology is made from locally modified and recycled parts to ensure that it is environmentally friendly. The development of this project has brought about an alternative to electricity generation for small businesses, a health care centre and a school within the impact area of the project.

“We are excited about our performance and want to thank the Sahara Group for giving us a platform to express our abilities. With more support, we believe we can contribute immensely to efforts aimed at improving power supply in Nigeria,” said Gibson Emmmauel, from Kaduna Polytechnic. The institution will represent Nigeria at the Enactus World Cup 2015 scheduled to hold in Sandton Convention Centre, South Africa from October 14 to 16, this year.

Sahara Foundation’s Manager, Babatomiwa Adesida said: “We believe the Sahara Light Up Challenge has started a movement that will ultimately redefine the way we produce, store and consume power in Nigeria, whilst ensuring environmental protection. We are confident that the competition will ultimately light up Nigeria.”

NCDMB sponsors 22 to China for pipe mill training

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•Power plant

Why NNPC’s growth is slow, by don

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T is not the dearth of technical know-how, but undue political interference and continued appointment of wrong personnel into the board of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) that have been responsible for the slow growth of the Corporation, the President of the Nigerian Chapter of International Association of Energy Economics (IAEE), Prof Wunmi Iledare, has said.

The industry, he said, boasts of enough technical manpower, adding that interference from political elite has made it difficult for people with the right skills to get on Board of NNPC and manage its affairs well in recent times.

He said the development has prevented the Corporation from managing and moving the nation’s oil and gas industry to enviable height and compete favourably with their counterparts globally.

He said Nigeria needs to choose between having a politically constituted NNPC’s Board or a technically constituted NNPC’ Board, if it wants to achieve meaningful progress in the petroleum industry.

He said when the Board of

By Akinola Ajibade

NNPC is technically constituted, the Corporation would be able to carry out its commercial activities of producing and selling oil well for socio- economic growth and further compete with institutions such as Petrobas among others.

According to him, failure to have a well regulated political process in Nigerian means that activities in NNPC and the entire industry would not go on smoothly.

Iledare, an Emeritus Professor at the Centre for Energy Studies, University of Louisiana, United States (US), told the The Nation that some people have misconstrued the restructuring of the NNPC to mean unbundling of the corporation, adding that what the Federal Government was trying to do was to reposition NNPC commercially.

He said: “The Federal Government has unbundled NNPC into different units or institutions several years ago. The development culminated in the emergence of subsidiaries like the Nigerian Petroleum Development Company (NPDC), Nigerian Gas Company (NGC) and others. What the government is

doing now is to make NNPC more commercially-oriented and stronger. The issue is line with the NNPC’s Act 1977, which stated that the Corporation should make the production, refining and selling of oil its major objectives.

However, this has not been the case. What NNPC is doing is to preoccupy itself with many responsibilities by regulating the industry, collecting royalties from operators, refining crude oil and selling petroleum products. Why should there be multiplication of duties in NNPC if we want to compete with its counterparts across the world?

Iledare said the government wants NNPC to focus on its commercial duties of producing, refining and selling of oil; the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) to concentrate on collection of taxes; Assets Management Company of Nigeria (AMCON) focusing on assets evaluation and management, among others.

He said the idea of repositioning NNPC and the industry for greater performance is important, in view of the fact the country relies mainly on earnings from oil for growth.

HE Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) has concluded arrangement to sponsor 22 young Nigerians to the Peoples Republic of China to acquire skills in the operation and maintenance of machines that will be used at the pipe mill being set up at Polaku, Bayelsa State by Mainland Pipe Mill Nigeria.

The trainees, who will travel before the end of the month, will be heading for the Baoji Petroleum Steel Pipe Company Limited (BSG), Baoji in Shaanxi Province, China where they will undergo their 45-day training.

The training is being facilitated by Mainland Pipe Mill, which has BSG of China as its technical partner.

Speaking in Yenagoa, the Bayelsa State capital at the induction for the trainees ahead of their trip, the Executive Secretary, NCDMB, Mr. Denzil Kentebe, urged them to take the programme seriously and acquire the necessary training and certifications that will enable them successfully operate the Polaku pipe mill when it becomes operational.

He said the trainees had been offered

an opportunity, which millions of Nigerians were desirous of and charged them to comport themselves as worthy ambassadors and return home as successes.

Kentebe cautioned the trainees against breaking the laws of their host country, especially on the possession and use of illicit drugs as such offence attracts stiff punishment by the Chinese authorities. Besides, offenders will be disappointment to their families and the nation that have reposed confidence in them.

The General Manager, Capacity Building Division, NCDMB, Ikpomosa Oviasu, restated that the programme was part of the Board’s efforts to imbue Nigerians with critical skills required in the oil and gas industry.

According to him, the trainees would be assessed during and after the programme and the best performers would be placed in existing pipe mills in Nigeria for further on-the-job training ahead of the start of the Polaku pipe mill.

Oviasu also confirmed that the Board and BSG had made arrangements for the trainees’ accommodation.

Total E&P appoints DMD

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HE Board of Total Exploration and Production Nigeria Limited (TEPNL) has appointed Mr. Ahmadu-Kida Musa as the Deputy Managing Director (DMD), Deepwater District of the firm with effect from August 1.

He replaced Mr. Charles Ngoka, who has proceeded on retirement.

The company’s Deputy General Manager, Media & Public Affairs, Charles Ogan, said Musa is a dynamic and focused manager with 30 years’career in oil and gas operations and management.

A 1984 Engineering graduate (B.Eng. Civil) from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Musa also holds a Postgraduate Diploma (PGD) in Petroleum Engineering from the Institut Francais du Petrole ( IFP), Paris, France.

He has attended various management and technical courses at the University of Port Harcourt, Harvard Business School and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, among others.

Musa is a fellow of the Nigerian Society of Engineers, member of various bodies, including the Council of Registered Engineers of Nigeria, Nigeria Institute of Management, Society of Petroleum Engineers International and Institute of Petroleum, United Kingdom (UK).

•Musa

Musa started his career in 1985 with Elf Petroleum Nigeria Limited as a trainee engineer and materials coordinator – engineering department and was later appointed to various positions of responsibility in production, operations and projects.

Last September, he was appointed to the Board of TEPNL as Executive Director, Port Harcourt District, a position he held until his present appointment.

Musa is also the Chairman, Rivers State Basketball Association, member and Southsouth zone representative, Nigerian Basketball Federation and Vice-President, Federation of International Basketball Associations, (FIBA) Africa Zone 3.

THE NATION THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2015

17

COMMENTARY EDITORIALS

LETTER

Unending ATM conundrum

Sultan’s salvo

•The call to prosecute corrupt persons was a brilliant intervention from the monarch T was a strong, emphatic and resonant voice from the throne. The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III, came out swinging against a corrupt political, business and bureaucratic class.

He asked the president to be unsparing in his fight against corruption, and all those who are found culpable should suffer for their explosion of the people’s trust and violation of our patrimony.

Hear him: “Mr. President, we are 100 percent in support of you and your fight against corruption in this country and it is our belief that all those found guilty should not only have their entire assets seized and forfeited to government but also face jail sentences.”

He made this assertion and call at a summit on security in Abuja on August 17. What he said is in sync with the reverberations going on in the country as President Muhammadu Buhari has initiated moves seen to be targeted at those who have made short work of our resources in the past few years.

Particular attention has been focused on the Jonathan regime, and the nation is witness to a flurry of unsavoury news about sleaze and impunity. The oil industry reflects the scum. The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), has been seen as the fulcrum of the dip into dirt. For instance, we do not know how much oil we sell, we do not know how much money we earn. The idea of fuel subsidy has been revived in national conversations across the land. How much have they stolen, and how much can we recover?

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President Buhari has shown that he can stand against the tide of vermin in the system. But we are learning that the fight on corruption does not stay in the oil alone.

It is all over the system. The federal civil service has unearthed its own underside of maggoty proportion. Investigations are on over the sum of $2.1m raw cash that one top civil servant is believed to be carrying, so as to put it in furtive safe keeping. That is a carryover from the Jonathan era where dollars dwarfed the local currency of Naira as the means of exchange and the instrument of reward.

In the heat of the election cycle, the then president reportedly swung his campaign to the southwest where he made the rounds in traditional palaces and churches, and the scandal heaved the nation from a sense of predictable to unpredictable scandals. Some of the church sources of news said they received dollars from the president as well as the traditional rulers.

It was unbelievable, and many Nigerians for their own good sense did not want to believe that our patrimony was subjected to such brazen abuse.

But the Buhari administration has found, too, that the situation is not restricted to oil. The firing of the NIMASA boss, the reversal of the appointment of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) boss, the dissolution of federal boards and parastatals, etc. reflect a sense that the full gamut of public life suffers from wholesale infection of the absurd called corruption.

At the time of writing, the revelations

that the NPA made N162 billion last year but remitted only N2 billion is mindboggling. Other bodies like the Niger Delta Development Commission and the Nigerian Railway Corporation are under investigation for colossal thieving.

The point must be made though that a bandwagon on the fight for corruption must be carried out without a sense of witch hunt or the vanity of applause. A professional work must be done. It is possible that at this time many persons would seek revenge, and want to score points either for partisan and ethnic reasons.

Caving to such impulses can easily undermine the trust in the process and turn the whole campaign into a revanchist failure.

‘Particular attention has been focused on the Jonathan regime, and the nation is witness to a flurry of unsavoury news about sleaze and impunity. The oil industry reflects the scum. The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), has been seen as the fulcrum of the dip into dirt. For instance, we do not know how much oil we sell, we do not know how much money we earn’

Drug of injustice •We want justice, not drugs, on our streets

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NAMBRA State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has raised a serious concern about the war against illicit drugs. The state commander of the agency, Mr Sule Momodu, accused some judges of handling drug-related cases with levity. According to him, most drug offences are punishable by 15 to 25 years imprisonment jail terms upon conviction, but some judges often give convicts far below these jail terms.

This is a serious indictment of the judiciary that should be of interest to the National Judicial Council (NJC), considering the deleterious effects of illicit drugs on the society. Indeed, it is one of the most serious indictments of people who should be helping the country to get rid of criminals. Not long ago, it was reported that some convicted drug peddlers and barons were seen walking freely on the streets when they should be serving their

‘We want to urge that the courts see the crime of drug pushing as a serious one and give the convicts the appropriate sentences that would serve as a deterrent to other criminallyminded individuals. The society is at risk when people who should be in jail are roaming the streets’

respective jail terms.

The issue of judges passing light sentences on various kinds of criminals is not peculiar to drug convicts alone. Indeed, it is an issue that has been bothering many Nigerians, especially when people who stole billions are given not more than a pat on the wrist upon conviction. In the immediate past dispensation, we were regaled with stories of judges who made a fortune from electoral cases. Without doubt, the judiciary, like any other sector in the country has its own challenges and, perhaps, bad eggs. We have had cases of judges who perverted the cause of justice one way or the other.

While it is true that some of them have been sanctioned by the appropriate authorities, especially in recent times, it is not unlikely that some are still left in the system. At any rate, it has to be established whether the light sentences granted some of the drug convicts was a mistake of the head or the heart, or whether it is exploitation of loopholes in our judicial system.

Whatever it is, though, light sentence for drug peddling is dangerous for the society.

Although Mr Momodu did not mention any particular judge or judges, and although we know that judges have the right to exercise their discretion in deciding the fate of accused in their courts within the ambits of the law, we want to urge that the courts see the crime of drug pushing as a serious one and give the

convicts the appropriate sentences that would serve as a deterrent to other criminally-minded individuals. The society is at risk when people who should be in jail are roaming the streets. Not only that, such criminals are a bad influence on innocent youths who could easily fall for their antics in their bid to make them join criminal gangs.

We seize this opportunity to appeal to the NDLEA and indeed other agencies handling serious state assignments to ensure that their legal teams develop the competence to handle their cases with the uttermost professionalism required so as to be able to prosecute successfully their cases against the suspects. They must realise that they need forensic evidence to secure conviction. Some judges have accused the legal teams of agencies like the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), among others, of shoddy handling of cases, thereby leaving them (judges) with no option but to free the suspects for want of diligent prosecution. The prosecutors must realise that cases must be proved beyond reasonable doubt and the judge is at liberty to decide any matter that is not proven beyond reasonable doubt in favour of the accused. So, these agencies must avoid shoddy handling of cases if they are to succeed in their mandate of ridding the country of illicit drugs and other crimes for which they were established.

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IR: My last trip to Abuja – the Federal Capital Territory ushered in a scene which I thought only existed in my home state, Imo. In fact, that of Abuja is even more alarming and worrisome. Initially, I was of the view that I was only viewing a mirage, not until I walked closer to the exact spot of the scene.

Having parked my car at the designated spot in front of one of the commercial banks situated at Maitama, Abuja, I was majestically taking a walk towards the location of the bank’s Automated Teller Machines (ATMs), till my panoramic view disclosed a scene which was not unlike the Independence Day parade that took place penultimate year at the Eagle’s Square, Abuja. My intention was to access some cash via the ATM, but the unthinkable crowd I encountered or sighted from afar brought in an instant deterrent.

Yes, my morale was instantly dampened because the fathomless number of persons, which formed an unending queue that seemed like an Independence parade, was meant to use the machines before me.

Honestly, I calmly walked back to my car and drove off because I knew there was no how I could use any of the machines in less than three hours time. I thank God for the shock absorber He imposed in my system; if not, I would have fainted at the moment I sighted that deceptive parade. Afterwards, I managed to visit other neighbouring banks for same transaction; all to no avail.

Let’s face the reality squarely. It is no longer news that the use of the Automated Teller Machine, which is popularly recognized by its acronym ‘ATM’, is really giving the contemporary Nigerian society an unbearable nightmare.

Frankly, a lot needs to be done regarding the use of ATM in Nigeria. The country requires more accurate and efficient technical know-how in its banking industry as regards ATM operations. Of course if we must tell ourselves the gospel truth, you will agree with me that so many challenges are currently faced by the users of the said machine.

Technical irregularities or hitches such as out of service, temporarily unable to dispense cash, issuer or switch inoperative, unreasonable seizing/withholding of transaction cards, among others, which are often encountered while using the ATM must be addressed in earnest. The ridiculous technical anomalies which include debiting an account without any withdrawal made by the owner, is the most devastating aspect of the ongoing ATM conundrum in Nigeria.

• COMR FRED DOC NWAOZOR (The Media Ambassador) Public Affairs Analyst & Civil Rights Activist [Owerri, Imo State]

TRUTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief Victor Ifijeh • Editor Gbenga Omotoso •Chairman, Editorial Board Sam Omatseye •General Editor Adekunle Ade-Adeleye •Editor, Online Lekan Otufodunrin •Managing Editor Northern Operation Yusuf Alli •Managing Editor Waheed Odusile

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• Gen. Manager (Training and Development) Soji Omotunde •General Manager (Abuja Press) Kehinde Olowu •AGM (PH Press) Tunde Olasogba

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THE NATION THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2015

18

CARTOON & LETTERS

IR: The media has recently been flooded with reports, advertorials and all sorts about corruption in Rivers State, accusing former governor, Chibuike Amaechi of fraud, unlawful enrichment and conversion of state funds apparently in a bid to force the hands of President Muhammadu Buhari against Amaechi whose immense support and contributions towards the victory of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the last presidential elections cannot be over-emphasized.

While there has been a robust defense by the Amaechi camp on the issues raised, many opposed to the former governor mostly believed to be of the Peoples Democratic Party(PDP) in Rivers State have insisted on putting Amaechi in the spotlight with the smear of corruption.

In view of Amaechi’s achievements in Rivers State as governor, it seems awkward that people from his own state would come up with such spurious allegations, though clearly instigated by his political enemies. The expanded and reconstructed roads, flyovers and bridges, the revamped education sector which was taken over from Local Government authorities to raise the standards, the establishment of a proper Agriculture sector with the Songhai farm and other productive farms across the state, a total overhaul of the State’s healthcare sector with functional Primary health centres in all LGAs, power generation particularly the decentralization of power distribution points with the construction of various power sub-stations. All these and more they seem to have forgotten.

A man with such purpose for the growth and development of his state and people wouldn’t do a sudden 360 degrees if he had the chance to do it already within his first seven years of service or even while he served as Speaker of the State House of Assembly for two tenures.

His transparency was also seen in the constant stakeholders’ accountability meetings, town hall meetings where he conferred and

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Again, Rotimi Amaechi in the Spotlight answered questions from the people directly and in their domains, as well as acting on feedback generated from followers and supporters on social media as regards issues of the state.

Being the closest link from Rivers State to the Presidency, Amaechi who consistently spoke up and stood against injustice meted out to the state by the erstwhile Goodluck Jonathan administration should indeed be hailed and not painted as the villain. One of such injustices was the ceding of Oil Wells from Rivers State to other neighbouring states, thereby directly dwindling the resources and revenue due to the State. As chairman of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum, Amaechi also stood against irregularities in governance and was never on the side of one political party against another, but for one Nigeria and a better nation; he brought the governors together and acted in one accord.

Now let’s review the allegations brought against this man, the response and why we the people and indeed the presidency should strive to be on the right path no matter how loud the opposition wails.

The desperate move by the opposition to tarnish Amaechi’s image and place him out of favour with the federal government he helped installed, pushed his accusers to draw hasty, uninformed and jaundiced conclusions.

On the supposed fraudulent sale of power projects and conversion of its proceeds, the so called Integrity Group only outlined the sale and failed to do its home work on the proceeds which subsequently has since been captured in the 2014 Appropriation Law of the State as one of the sources of revenue to fund the 2014 budget. This inclusion was explained in the reply

signed by former Secretary to the Rivers State Government, George Feyii and former Commissioner of Finance, Chamberlain Peterside.

It read in part “...the sale of this equity (70%) was particularly informed by the following considerations: the federal government had commenced a privatization process to unbundle the Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN) to drive efficiency, … Need to engender efficiency in the management of the power assets so that its benefits could be felt by the generality of the people of Rivers State, … the state government does not have the requisite manpower to manage the facilities, and … the need to augment revenue in the face of dwindling federal allocation to the state.”

Another unverified and distorted claim by the accusers was that funds were transferred from the power assets sale proceeds accounts with Access Bank Plc to the accounts of three private companies calling it ‘a glaring case of stealing…’ Meanwhile the response by Amaechi’s people clarifies that, “the companies that were erroneously portrayed as fronts for looting the funds were actually those that bought the US Dollars and made remittances of Naira equivalents into the Rivers State Revenue Account with Zenith Bank.”

Firstly, “Payments of the assets were made in several tranches between 2012 and 2014; All proceeds of the sale made in US Dollars were lodged in the Rivers State Power Assets Sale Account with Access Bank; the USD proceeds were sold to willing buyers at a rate higher than the prevailing CBN rates at the time, and the Naira equivalent lodged by the buyers into the Rivers state revenue account at Zenith Bank.”

The response also explained that the funds were used alongside others from other revenue sources to finance various government projects and activities and clearly attached a statement of account of the State for the relevant period as proof.

Other rumours that such entities like RISONPALM, SUPABOD (now SPAR) AND OLYMPIA HOTEL (Radisson Blu Olympia) were sold by the Amaechi administration has also been debunked. These previously moribund entities were leased or concessioned but never sold, and would revert to the state government at the end of the lease period.

Also, the claim that the Amaechi administration kept mum over the failure of Clinotech Diagnostics to fulfill its part on the Public Private Partnership it signed with the Rivers State Government for the building and operation of a mega Specialist Hospital in Port Harcourt is totally false.

The first blunder by the petitioners is referring to Clinotech as a separate entity from Clinoriv. The government signed a MoU with Clinotech, not Clinoriv. Clinoriv was only coined to reflect the joint venture. The second mistake was claiming that the former governor awarded a fresh contract to Clinotech on the same project. This is wrong as the contract was not awarded twice. The State Executive Council simply suspended the 60% to 40% joint venture between Clinotech and the State Government and awarded it as a turnkey contract to Clinotech with direct (100%) funding by the government.

However, on Clinotech’s failure to keep the agreement, Rt. Hon. Chibuike Amaechi, then Governor reported Harrison Ofiyai, CEO of Clinotech to the then Commis-

sioner of Police alleging a case of breach of contract and fraudulent diversion of funds. The police conducted an investigation on the matter and came up with a report.

Following the failure of the project, the Rivers State Government according to the response by Amaechi’s camp “executed a memo of Agreement on May 9, 2014 with VMS-WILLEMEN consortium for the completion of the Justice Adolphus Karibi Whyte Hospital on a build, Operate and Transfer basis.”

On the third allegation of unlawful enrichment of Messers Collect (Nig) Limited, it is now clear that the tenure of Skye bank PLC as revenue consultant ended in December 2014 and Collect Solutions Limited was appointed as the new consultants with a mandate to further increase the monthly revenue from N7.5b monthly where Skye Bank got it to from the average of N2.5b when Amaechi became governor.

According to the response by the Amaechi team, “Appointment of revenue consultants is within the powers of the state government and Amaechi’s administration only exercised that power in appointing Collect solutions Limited. Having been duly appointed, the consulting company is entitled to its remuneration.”

Those petitioners and their sponsors trying to tarnish Amaechi’s image should have a rethink and desist from the lowly act, but rather hold the current Wike administration in Rivers State to account. Yes, for Governor Wike to account for all the billions of naira collected by his administration since May 29, including the N30billion loan he collected within 30 days in office.

For Wike to account to the people of Rivers State just like former governor Amaechi did when he was in office. We must promote excellence in Rivers State typified by former Governor Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi. This distraction of trying to pull Amaechi down and erase his lasting laudable legacies in Rivers State cannot and will not fly.

•Maxi Gogo is the SecretaryGeneral of Rivers Peoples’ Forum(RPF).

THE NATION THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2015

19

COMMENTS

Kabiyesi Okunade Sijuwade Waja, Erin wo ajanaku sun bi oke (1)

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ABIYESI or kabio kosi means nobody can query the decision of an Oba. This is to say the ruler is an omnipotent and powerful ruler whose actions are beyond question. Oba Waja means the king has escaped to the roof. This is to suggest an Oba never dies; he merely escapes to the hereafter. Obas in those days of yore were deified, kabiyesi Iku baba eye. Alaafin Sango was worshipped and deified as God of Thunder. Obas were regarded as rulers only second to the gods. Erin wo ajanaku sun bi oke signifies the almighty nature of the Oba who when he falls he cannot be woken up because he is like a hill that cannot be moved. The passing on has also been described as the tiger going into the forest. A few months ago, the royal palace in Benin said the tiger is hunting in the savannah in reference to the apparent indisposition of the Benin monarch. In the case of the Ooni, it is said the tiger has gone to hunt in the forest. In Yorubaland and neighboring Benin kingdom, Obas are usually referred to as children of the tiger, signifying the dangerous beauty of the tiger. It is interesting that the use of lions as symbols of royalty was hardly used in Yorubaland, yet tigers are not native to Africa unless one decides to translate amotekun(leopard) and Ekun(Tiger) interchangeably The centrality of Ile - Ife , Or Ife ode aye ( the place from where land spread to other places)in Yorubaland , Benin and the forest kingdoms of west Africa up to Ghana cannot be overemphasised . The influence of Ife was not based on political conquest but on its spiritual and religious significance .This significant role lies in historical antiquity. As far back as the 9th century to the 12th century, Ife was home to a civilization that produced the famous Ife terra cottas and bronze figurines which were made using the cire Perdue or (lost wax) process only found among Ancient Greeks which made an itinerant German explorer Leo Froebinius to suggest that this technology may have diffused from Greece through the Mediterranean and across the Sahara to Ile -Ife! This is, of course, nonsense. Earlier on, the Nok culture of which Ife was possibly a successor had existed in the area of southern Kaduna and current areas of Plateau State. What is significant is that the Benin, Ugbo-Ukwu in present Anambra State, Bida in Niger State and Idah in Kogi with Ile - Ife form the same artistic cultural tradition which Ile -Ife spearheaded.

Until recently when some nationalist historians of Bini history have tried to dispute the exact relationship between Ife and Benin, it was generally agreed that the Benin monarchy is from the house of Oduduwa, the eponymous ancestor of the Yoruba people. Jacob Egharevba, in his history of Benin, made

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HEY touted it as a city to be built on virgin land; a city on the hill, so to say. But not comparable to the holy city of Jerusalem, which the Bible talks about. However, the promoters of the Centenary City had a similar city in mind; a city that will blow our minds and punch a hole in our pockets. In the pockets of those that can afford it, that is.

The Centenary City was conceived as a monument to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the 1914 amalgamation of the Northern and Southern Protectorates from which present day Nigeria emerged. It was a lavish celebration on which billions of naira were spent. Then Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Anyim Pius Anyim, was at the helm of the planning committee.

Abuja was virtually locked down for this once in a lifetime ceremony, which started in February, 2014 and ended in February, 2015. The idea behind the city’s conception may not be bad, but was it done with the purest of motives? This is the question now being asked amid the controversy over the city’s status. The Centenary City is not just a city, but a city within a city carved out of the capital city of Abuja. Some villages were sacked for the city. These are the villages of Baruwa, Kpaikpai, Gosa, Daiynna, Toge and Ruga.

Eventhough these communities initially kicked against the acquisition of their land for the project, they later acquiesced after being compensated. Then Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Bala Mohammed, also initially reportedly refused to

493 DAYS AFTER

STILL WAITING FOR CHIBOK GIRLS’ RESCUE

this assertion .The new Benin revisionism suggests that Oduduwa was a fugitive Benin prince of the Erkhaladenhan dynasty who ran away for fear for his life and lived in the forest of Ile -Ife until as a result of the political disarray in Benin he was sent for to come back home . This fugitive prince was conveniently called Ideduwa who then sent his son, Oranmiyan, in his stead . After a brief stay, Oranmiyan after fathering a son, Eweka, left Benin back to Ife and later went to found a new kingdom in Oyo.. There is a convergence of Benin and Ife oral traditions on the emergence of Oyo which with Benin became the two most powerful empires in West Africa between the 15th and the 18th centuries. This is not the place to interrogate these myths of origin of peoples. What is important to state is the connection of Ife to Benin to the extent that even to this day the standard greetings in the palace of the Oba of Benin is how goes Ife ?(uhe ) in Edo language . The Portuguese were told in the 15th century that the Oba of Benin pays homage to his father the Oghene who lives north west of Benin . It is significant to note that the Edo generally refer to God as oghene(urhobo) .

The late Professor Ade Obayemi raised the question of whether the present Ife is the Ife of historical antiquity since there are currently seven or nine Ifes . Professor Alan Ryder also suggested that ancient Ife may have been north of its present location and may be somewhere in the Benue valley near Ife olukotun in Kogi State. This is not far-fetched because migration and replication of original settlements and kingdoms is a common phenomenon in African history. The artifacts found in Ife would then have been carried from the original Ife to the present location. Many centuries of development passed on between these beginnings and future growth in Yorubaland No matter how powerful Oyo and Benin later became, and the two empires shared borders in Eastern Yorubaland, it was forbidden for them to violate the sacrosanct nature of Ile Ife .

It was the violation of this sanctity of Ifeland when the Alafin’s forces invaded Apomu part of Ife kingdom towards the end of the 18th century that precipitated general wars in Yorubaland that lasted for a century in which a war of movement became a war of attrition in the Kiriji war. During these wars, Ife was constantly evacuated or destroyed but the stool of the Onirinsa was always restored. In those hectic days the Ooni continued to enjoy his influence in Yorubaland; of course, at the mercy of the Alaafin whose relationship to the Ooni was akin to that of the pope and emperor in medieval Europe with the Alafins enjoying suzerainty over most of Yorubaland before the

military imperialism of Ibadan in the 19th century. The coming of the British stabilized the traditional political institution not only of the Alaafin and Ooni but also in the far north of Nigeria in the beleaguered Sokoto Jide Caliphate where there Osuntokun was a revolt in Satiru to replace the leadership. The British consolidated the position of the Ooni as spiritual head of the Yoruba and repository of Yoruba tradition and culture while accepting the predominant position of the Alaafin as political supremo in Yorubaland . In spite of this division of power, the Oyo-Ife axis which would have been beneficial to the whole of Yorubaland has remained at best tenuous.

Kabiyesi Okunade Sijuwade came to the throne wellprepared. I grew up knowing him as Public Relations Director of Leventis Motors. He later founded National Motors on behalf of the government of Western Nigeria, selling British Leyland vehicles before he founded his own company, the West African Technical Company (WAATECO) selling Soviet Union vehicles and equipment , somehow mirroring the shift in the Action Group party’s rapprochement towards the Soviet Union .This was obviously to the discomfiture of the then Federal Government that dreaded relations with the Soviet Union in spite of its avowed policy of nonalignment . The then Prince Sijuwade made a huge success of it and that began the story of his success in business spanning so many other businesses from construction to trade relations with Israel and Britain.

‘Kabiyesi Okunade Sijuwade came to the throne well-prepared. I grew up knowing him as Public Relations Director of Leventis Motors. He later founded National Motors on behalf of the government of Western Nigeria, selling British Leyland vehicles before he founded his own company’

Centenary City, centenary cut buy into the project, claiming that the city is not captured in the Abuja masterplan. He also later changed his mind and signed the certificate of occupancy (C of O) following orders from above. Whether it was done on orders from above or not, the time for asking questions is here. And those behind the project are afraid that they may be called upon to give account.

Questions could not be asked in the past because we were under a government of anything goes. Former President Goodluck Jonathan was and still is a happy, jolly fellow, who did not want anything to disrupt the good life he was having in government. He allowed his lieutenants a free hand to do whatever they liked as long as his own interest was not affected. And some of these lieutenants used his name to perpetrate evil under the guise of working in the national interest. To rebuild the nation, we must probe the sordid deeds of the past to deter our future leaders.

Otherwise, we will continue to move around in circles - all movement and motion. But they would have none of such probe; they want us as a people to pretend as if nothing went amiss under their watch. We know that a lot went wrong under Jonathan. The former president also know that many things went wrong under him, but he did not have, as they say, the liver to act.

With the Buhari administration determined to clean the Augean stable, these yesterday men have been running to the Abdulsalami Abubakar-led peace committee to help save their necks. The panel’s brief, I beg to say, does not include interfering in the due process of getting past public officers to account for their stewardship. The panel has done its best by getting President Muhammadu Buhari and former President Jonathan to accept the out-

come of the March 28 election. It should not see this selfless service as a licence to dictate to the Buhari administration how to run the country. The panel has no hold over Buhari because it brokered peace between him Jonathan before the poll.

If the government has decided to probe Jonathan, so be it.

Didn’t Jonathan tell the world before leaving office that he was not afraid of being probed? His plea, however, was that the probe should be extended to the governments before his. That was only a suggestion, which the present government can either accept or reject. His suggestion is not binding on Buhari. If Jonathan is so much interested in the probe of the governments before his, why didn’t he initiate it? He should not use this as a ploy to accuse the Buhari administration of witch hunting him.

Why should the government do that?

He needs not be afraid if his hands are clean.

The truth is there was nothing clean about the Jonathan administration and this is why those who served in it are jittery about being probed. No amount of blackmail should stop the Buhari administration from going ahead with the exercise. One of the projects that should be looked into is the Centenary City. Was due process followed in the acquisition of the vast land for the project? Were the displaced villagers duly compensated?

How did it acquire its free zone status when it is not purely a commercial venture? Are such projects worldwide given such status? How do they acquire it? The project looks good on paper, but deep down it smells of a scam. Like everything Nigerian, some people have used it to con us.

They have made a cut from the project and will still make more, if the government does not act fast to stop them.

There is something fishy about the

Centenary City. If not, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) National Vice Chairman, Southsouth Cairo Ojougboh will not be crying foul. To Ojougboh, the Centenary City, which is expected to be completed in 10 years, is a scam. Why? He submits : “It is an elaborate scheme cunningly conceived to defraud the government and the good people of Nigeria”.

Ojougboh should know because he was Nigeria Export Processing Zone Authority (NEPZA) Chairman when the city acquired its free zone status.

Could the Centenary City have got that status without the NEPZA chairman’s knowledge? That is impossible except if it was done behind his back. If this is so, those who did it should answer for their actions. jougboh, who is enraged that Anyim has taken him to court over the matter and also organised a protest, which he calls ‘’a show of shame’’ against him, insists that the project is “crime personified” because its C of O was obtained under false pretence. He adds that it was cunningly contrived to look like a public private partnership (PPP) management. The city, he maintains, was also “cunningly incorporated as a free zone without any authority whatsoever to do so. It is public knowledge that the only agency with the authority to designate any area as a free trade zone is NEPZA, where I served the nation as chairman. It is, therefore, inevitable that being a man of conscience, who would have no traffic with impunity or corruption, I would reveal this scam to the authorities and the general public.

“The Centenary City is indeed a project devised to trick the authorities into giving a huge chunk of land to one man under the guise of PPP”.

What do those asking the present government to let sleeping dogs lie say of these allegations? Swept under the carpet? Is that what will en-

O

Lawal Ogienagbon lawal.ogienagbon@thenationonlineng.net SMS ONLY: 08099400204, 08112661612

sure that the peace we now enjoy endure? No, it will rather shatter it because where there is no justice, there can be no peace. If we want peace, we should embrace justice first. Otherwise, what we will have, will be peace of the graveyard.

As for me, I cannot wait for Ojougboh to make good his promise to initiate “legal proceedings by way of sending petitions to the appropriate authorities as regards this issue”. It is only those whose hands are not clean that will be afraid of the impending probe of the past government, an exercise which many Nigerians are eagerly waiting for. Heavens will not fall over this probe whether some people like it or not.

‘Their plan is for a Centenary City that will blow our minds and punch a hole in our pockets. But there is something fishy about it all; otherwise, Ojougboh will not be crying foul’

THE NATION THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2015

20

COMMENTS

S

ENATE President, Dr, Bukola Saraki, is troubled. This has nothing to do with his ongoing crisis of legitimacy as Senate President. For now, the battle against his political party that has accused him of playing Brutus has been shifted to another day. His priority today is promoting solidarity with Nigerians that have been in darkness for 16 years. Bukola Saraki, an inheritor of Kwara fiefdom who often treats all as subjects, told Nigerians last week that he was troubled that they have not derived joy from both ‘the power Reform Act and the unbundling of the Power Holding Company of Nigeria.’

Senator Godswill Akpabio, probably as part of the horse-trading that produced him Senate Minority Leader against Senate convention, was the first to echo the Senate President’s sentiments. He was followed by Senator Danjuma Goje who expressed his empathy for Nigerians because of ‘the untold suffering that lack of power supply had caused’ them. As for Senator Ndume, his righteous indignation stemmed not just from the fact that he spends N10,000 daily to power his generator, but more from the failure of ‘government to show anything for the huge amount of money sunk into the power sector in the last 16 years.

United by their passion for Nigeria, law makers that have for two months engaged in competition over ‘materials and ideas’ which only ended with the sharing of about N13b for doing absolutely nothing, resolved to probe the power sector from Obasanjo to Jonathan. They have accordingly set up the Senator Abubakar Kyari‘s Ad Hoc Committee to ‘investigate the activities of the Discos and what is preventing Nigerians from benefitting from the unbundling of the PHCN’.

However, for the exercise not to be seen as diversionary, many are saying the Senate should first solve its leadership crisis of legitimacy following the establishment by the police that the Senate rules used for the election of the Senate leadership were forged. But beyond this, many also believe Nigerians don’t really

‘Of course, as for the wellknown PDP stalwarts with links to the power sector who donated billions towards ex-president Jonathan’s failed reelection bid, what is needed is not Senate probe but EFCC inquisition’

W

Power sector needs EFCC, not Senate probe need a probe to identify those behind their continued darkness. All that is needed, in their view, since our leaders believe Nigerians suffer from collective amnesia, is a recall to memory.

In 2008, Obasanjo in a long letter warned the Dimeji Bankole-led Lower House that probing his handling of the power sector will be noting but ‘a theatrical or circus show (which) will provide fun and maybe hurt some people’. He then went on to give an account of his stewardship to the Elumelu House Committee. He inherited in 1999 seven power stations in different states of disrepair, generating 1500MW; he added six with the seventh at finishing stage by 2007; introduced the pre-paid meter system and moved revenue generation from about N2b per month in year 2000 to about N7b per month in 2007 with$6.5b as capital expenditure and running costs between 1999 to 2007 including outstanding letters of credit as against the Dimeji Bankole’s $16b and Yar Adua’s $10b bandied figures. He capped all up with the inauguration of the Nigeria Integrated Power Project (NIPP), hoping ‘his successors would be driven with the same zeal and move the planned target up to 20,000 MW by 2015’.According to him, to kickstart, besides the Chinese loan facility, the National Council of State and the National Assembly also approved an initial $2.5b for NIPP from the “Excess Crude Oil Account” (ECOA) in August 2005.

The late Dr. Agagu, his minister for power, also revealed that ‘between June 2000 and December 2002, ‘our electricity generation capacity increased from 1425 to 4300 megawatts’; that the establishment of four power projects were completed within 24 months from contractors’ mobilisation, making them the fastest of deliveries in the history of Nigeria. ‘For all the four plants, a concessionary funding programme

HERE are our exemplary education experts to train the next generation of students? The teachers have graduated with half-baked degrees, so it is guaranteed that their products - when not on some long- drawnout enforced holiday due to strikes or student disturbances - would be half-baked at best or more likely quarter-baked.

So, the ones that would come after that, please… Very likely, I would be gone by then. Not witnessing it is actually a blessing. That unfortunately may be coming to fruition earlier than anticipated with JAMB toying with or approving 180/400 as a pass mark for admission to university. This is about 45% and by our own best academics’ esteemed reckoning this is now a pass mark for the next generation of geniuses for the country. Their main focus after graduation, for the development of the nation, is to chase the annual Immigration recruitment exercise. Major stadiums filled to the brim for administrative jobs in Abuja have become the national showcase for our education system and we are meant to find this very inspiring.

To get a better picture of our current paper-based system, the polytechnics are now even offering business studies, political studies, accountancy, mass communication, etc.

How these courses or programmes would technically and technologically revolutionise us into makers of products or instruments rather than being trained in how to use them is best left to our educational policy makers.

Can the trend be reversed or is it too late? Are we interested in reversing it? Do we have the resources and personnel in place to reverse the trend? Most of the children of the Ministers, Commissioners, Legislators, even Local Government Councillors, are abroad or in Ghana, so who is interested in revamping this sector? If able to discover some sense of urgency, can we bring in professional education experts into strategic parts of the education sector, retain and retrain some of the high-flying teachers and lecturers abroad, and for them to come and pass their knowledge to others – not going on a teaching holiday jamboree abroad?

Can we set up bonus system for teachers to be determined by the number of students that pass from their class? Can we put an anonymous feedback monitoring and evaluation system in place by the students of their teachers and lecturers? These are just ideas, I am sure there are more innovative ones to improve our educational standard. The point is, there really is no time to waste.

Education-sector professionals have repeatedly chided the government for never meeting the UNESCO requirement of spending a quarter of a country’s budget on education,

was negotiated with the Chinese Exim Bank through which the Nigerian government paid only 35 per cent of their cost for the plants to be delivered. The balance of 65 per cent, he explained, was to be paid over a seven-year period at six per cent interest rate and two years moratorium’. But Godwin Elumelu, as House of Representative chairman on power representing cash strapped lawmakers who claimed to have sold landed properties to fight the 2007 election, insisted there was indeed evidence of corruption in the process of awarding the contracts. On that account they delayed the Obasanjo scheme for two years.

But all that was needed to prove our lawmakers were men with feet of clay was an opportunity to spend N7b of excess REA fund within two weeks to prevent the money from returning to government coffers. To beat the deadline, Elumelu and his colleagues according to EFCC, ignored ‘due process’, nominated nine contractors by proxy, authorised the MD of REA to award them the contracts, and prevailed on the Permanent Secretary of the ministry who was also the acting minister to grant approval for the contracts and the payment of 15 per cent of the fee. The balance of 85 per cent was equally withdrawn from the REA account and lodged in the banks where those contractors had their accounts. On June 14 2010, EFCC further accused Godwin Elumelu, and Senator Nicholas Ugbane, his counterpart as Senate Committee Chairman on Power, of misappropriating over N10b public funds. EFCC therefore concluded that theexercise ”was used as conduit pipes with which funds of the Rural Electrification Agency were siphoned”. EFCC added other offences - ‘misappropriation of N500million to buy houses; diversion of REA’s

funds; flouting of government’s rules on award of contracts and award of fictitious and unnecessary contracts without following due process.’

But Justice M.G Umar of Abuja High Court on March 24, 2012, absolved them along with their fronts, claiming ‘he was unable to find a prima facie case or complaint disclosed in the proof of evidence against the respondent’. EFCC never appealed.

Jonathan, after a two-year delay, went back to Obasanjo’s programme. His Roadmap for Power Sector Reform was a continuation of Obasanjo’s 2005 Electric Power Sector Reform Act (EPSR Act), which called for ‘unbundling the national power utility company into a series of 18 successor companies: six generation companies and 11 distribution companies. But the well-known forces behind our darkness once again overwhelmed a less self-assertive Jonathan. For instance, most of the 60 licensed Independent Power Producers (IPPs) were allegedly owned by some PDP leaders or their sympathisers. And as if to confirm this, Jerry Gana, a PDP leading light doubling as (IPPAN) chairman, led the body to meet government over the demand of IPPS for waivers on ‘importation of gas-related machinery and equipment.’

The Jonathan government followed with a promise of more than half a billion bailout.

As the saying goes, ‘the pests that feed on leaf live on leaves’. The Senate needs not waste our resources to know that those who have continued to feed on the blood and sweat of Nigerian tax payers are those prolonging our darkness. Dagogo Jack, the chairman of Jonathan presidential task force on power now says “ since government has no control over private firms, the best government can do is to ensure they ‘sustain the current 4500MW level, if they cannot increase it.” With power generation sometimes falling below 2000MW and consumers debited for energy never supplied, government says it is helpless. Prof Bath Nnaji who as minister for power claimed that ‘apart from transmission, the (power)sector, ”with regard to generation, was moving ahead by ‘leaps and bounds’, now as an investor, probably smiles to the bank following the commissioning of his transmission firm in Aba by then President Jonathan. The lot of consumers remains the same. His successor, Prof. Nebo, who told us that ”the situation where only 25 per cent of Nigerians have access to electricity is a nightmare caused by human beings used by evil forces” has failed to identify the parasites that have continued to prolong our darkness. Of course, as for the well-known PDP stalwarts with links to the power sector who donated billions towards ex-president Jonathan’s failed reelection bid, what is needed is not Senate probe but EFCC inquisition.

Education for development

By Dele Owolowo which to them is the underlying reason for our regrettable situation. The question is, even if we meet that requirement as a lot of African countries have managed to do, would we make any significant progress in our national economic development with funding mainly directed towards the knowledge-based service-oriented professions? Can our academic graduates add 24% productivity annually to the nation’s economic grid?

The graduates from the knowledge-based professions are only able to advise, assist, support, guide, provide statistics, engage in discussions, seminars, conferences, lectures mostly where? - in Lagos, Abuja and Port Harcourt cities of course – LAP crew, as I refer to them. The crème de la crème of them would invariably find their way abroad and would send us remittances to keep us surviving.

Reflecting the same template at the state level is to produce those that would end up chasing greener pastures in the LAP cities. Or if they do stay, they fuel the civil service ranks of the state, patently unable to contribute meaningfully to the state’s revenue coffers.

While every Nigerian is entitled to a university education, does every Nigerian have the ability and means to acquire university education? If not university-oriented in terms of education, is that the end of the functional use of the person to the nation? Are we directing our curriculum orientation, budgetary allocation, personnel training and educational infrastructure away from the academic knowledge-based professions to the technical-vocation practicalbased professions that can make a difference rather than producing those advising on how to make the difference?

It is not the education that is the problem but the type of education. Our current education system is for knowledgebased ‘pentrapreneurs’ aiming for office jobs with the LAP crew. Meanwhile, Nigeria’s agricultural and agro-based national fate lies in every state outside the LAP places. Policies and practices aimed at entrenching this system is the root-cause template of our underdevelopment. We need entrepreneurs who can transform the agro-industrial sector, the academic curriculum reflecting such orientation, the budget revamped for giving prominence to the Universities

of Technologies, Polytechnics and Technical Vocational institutes as advised by Mr Chibuzor Asomugha, the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics President. The current clamour in some quarters towards dismantling the dichotomy between HND and BSc is a step in the right direction apparently being looked into by the President.

Reorienting our educational system would produce more doers than thinkers able to make practical contributions to the rural development of the economy, those who do not need to run to the cities for survival, channel the rural sector to integrate with the national economic system, produce those who can contribute to modernising the states and local governments creating human capacity potential to increase state and local government revenues. Our education curriculum should be synchronised with the national economic development framework for technical-vocational institutes and the agro-tech sector to build instruments, devices, implements and small machines for farmers in cooperatives in the local-rural communities.

The idea by the Industrial Training Fund to train for more technical-vocational education is a step in the right direction. Similarly the proposal by the National Youth Service Corps for its members to engage in one kind of skills acquisition or the other during the annual national service programme, if well orchestrated with a nationwide agrotechnical scheme, can lay the groundwork for sustainable long-term skills development. The roles of the Bank of Industry and Bank of Agriculture, very commendable, can also be integrated into this framework.

If ever there was any one sector that should guide our national development and economic policy framework, it would be the education sector. It should be interconnected with the agricultural sector, technical-vocational sector, manpower planning and employment directorate, defence and security, foreign ministry, and most importantly the research institutes in the various disciplines at the local, state or national level, with an end-goal. If implemented well, maybe the education sector can lay claim to producing the leaders of tomorrow rather than the scammers, schemers or swindlers currently misrepresenting our nation both at home and abroad.

• Owolowo is an educationist, trainer and rural entrepreneur

THE NATION THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2015

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COMMENTS

I

MAKE it a point of duty to be respectful of President Olusegun Obasanjo, whether I happen to mention his name in public or in private. I am sure that is part of my respect for my country. For me, it is not a small thing that a person has once been head of the country of my birth.

In the past few days, President Obasanjo has been widely reported to have made some thought-provoking statements about the issue of leadership in the Yoruba nation. I see no need to probe into his motives for making these statements – and I will not so probe, out of respect. Whether he is out to shoot barbs at some person or persons among the Yoruba people is not unimportant, but I choose not to step into such considerations.

It is quite possible to look into the statements themselves on purely objective basis, and that is what I would rather do.

Broadly, his statements deal with two periods of Yoruba history – the long precolonial period and the short modern, Nigerian, period. His views concerning both periods are, I believe, summed up in the sentence in which he said: ”Just as there was no single Oba having sovereignty over the whole of Yorubaland, there was no individual as leader of the Yorubas in Yorubaland. As it was then, it remains till now.” With all due respect, I think he is not exactly correct about either period.

His mistake concerning the long period of the history of Yoruba kingdoms and their Obas (from about the 10th century to roughly the end of the 18th century) arises from his obvious confusion of the two concepts, “leadership” and “sovereignty”. Yes, no one Oba ever held sovereignty over the whole of Yorubaland; each Oba held sovereignty over his own kingdom. But that does not mean that the concept of leadership, or the concept of prominent influence, was totally nonexistent in this long period of Yoruba history.

Claims commonly made by various Yoruba circles today for the Ooni or the Alafin as “leading” father of the Yoruba nation is not without some historical foundation. The problem is that those of us making these claims do not try to differentiate between the eras when one or the other had more influence in Yorubaland.

Historians would now say that there was an early era when the Ife kingdom was widely revered in Yorubaland and that, though the reverence for Ife never totally vanished, there was a later era when the Alafin ruled a large and proud empire consisting of much (though not all) of Yorubaland plus some non-Yoruba peoples, and when the Alafin had very high influence among Yoruba

T

HE quest for Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) by the Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Akinwumi Ambode is part of the larger plan to make the Lagos megacity a functional one. Lagos State, with a projected population of over 21million people, is a destination of choice to majority of Nigerians.

It is seen as a state of unlimited opportunities and as such movement of young adults to the state in search of greener pastures is a daily occurrence. The collapse of the economy, especially the closure of manufacturing industries over time due largely to the absence of power and unfavourable investment climate, has had adverse effects on the security of lives and property of the people.

The first responsibility of the government, as we all know, is to ensure the security of its people and their welfare. The most paramount need of man is food and nothing is too much a sacrifice to put food on the table of the people. After that, secondary issues that are likely to arise from the decision taken or being contemplated can be addressed.

The reception which Governor Ambode accorded the Walmart delegation and a promise to create enabling environment for their business was borne out of the zeal to

‘The population of Lagos State stands it in good stead to host the world-renowned retail outlet as its population is well stratified such that all contending forces will consistently find their share of the market without posing threat to others’

Message to Obasanjo people. There was an era when Yoruba kingdoms that fell into political troubles resorted to the palace of Ife for traditions and rituals for sorting out their troubles. And there was a later era when high officials of the Alafin were commonly sent by the Alafin to go and settle disputes, and prevent conflicts, in totally sovereign and independent Yoruba kingdoms that were experiencing political troubles. The traditions about these things are unambiguous features of our history.

To go on to the modern aspects of President Obasanjo’s statements, we find him saying very heavy things. He says that there has never been a Yoruba leader in modern times, that it was Chief Awolowo’s supporters who “fixed” the title of Yoruba leader on him during the Nigerian crisis situation in the 1960s, and that there is no need for a Yoruba leader.

The statement that there has never been a Yoruba leader in modern Yoruba history is simply untrue. In general, in all parts of Black Africa, whenever any nationalities face uncertainties or difficulties in the countries to which they belong, their usual practice has been to generate a leadership to protect their interests. There is no known Black African nation that has never done this. In Nigeria, the examples are legion. In the late 1940s, in the general uncertainty accompanying British deliberations to formulate Nigeria into one country, many Nigerian peoples founded leadership groups for themselves – notably, Ibo State Union, Egbe Omo Oduduwa, etc. One of the most influential forces in Nigerian politics today is the HausaFulani leadership organization called Arewa Consultative Forum.

Egbe Omo Oduduwa and its leadership spoke very capably for the Yoruba nation and promoted Yoruba interests expertly. In various crisis situations in Yorubaland, it employed its influence effectively to broker peace. And, even in spite of the presence of two powerful political parties, AG and NCNC, in the Western Region, Egbe Omo Oduduwa continued to do these things until the regional crisis of the early 1960s. Is it possible that President Obasanjo does not remember these things?

During the very troubling months leading to the Nigerian Civil War in the 1960s, prominent Yoruba of all political orientations formed the Yoruba Leaders of

Thought, which met frequently to chart our nation’s path through the growing Nigerian nightmare of the time. Most other Nigerian nationalities did the same. We even set up a standing delegation which went to Gen. Gowon many times to present Yoruba positions and make Yoruba demands. Chief Awolowo, first Premier of our Region, and undoubtedly our nation’s highest political assets at that point, chaired the meetings and was appointed by us to lead the delegation.

I remember the very meeting at which we suddenly chose him as leader of our nation.

Nobody had planned any such thing. I know, because I was one of the young academics and professionals who served as organizers and messengers for those meetings of Leaders of Thought. Our nation was under enormous stress. During the days before, there had been a lot of fear all over our Region, because some of the Northern soldiers stationed in our Region had been reported to be threatening to kill members of our delegation. The Western Regional Military Governor, Gen. Adeyinka Adebayo, had appointed some Yoruba military officers to accompany our delegation. And we simply did what human groups do in such circumstances – we appointed a leader and prepared to stand for our nation. The talk that anybody among us opposed, or could have dared to oppose, what we did in that meeting, is totally untrue. President Obasanjo should not let anybody sell to him manifestly untrue twists of important historical facts.

Also, during the Abacha dictatorship of the 1990s, when state terror was directed against the Yoruba nation, the Yoruba nation threw up a leadership group named Afenifere, which served the Yoruba nation’s interests, and mobilized the Yoruba people, very effectively. Afenifere called up the old warrior, Chief Adekunle Ajasin, to lead the nation; and when Ajasin passed on, they called up Senator Abraham Adesanya. A lot of people still remember that the then Gen. Obasanjo had dealings with either or both of these leaders in their status of Yoruba leader.

Sure, many people now lament the fact that Afenifere made a serious mistake in choosing to be closely identified with a political party when party politics returned. But very few would contradict the assessment that Afenifere did, before then, lead the Yoruba nation very effectively. Can it be that

Nigerian thoughts President Obasanjo h a s totally forgotten t h e s e things?

In the light of the above historical experiences, does it m a k e sense to Banji Akintoye say today that no is necessary among the Yoruba? leadership These days, the Yoruba nation’s situation in Nigeria is more complex, and demands vastly more serious responses than ever before. The challenges are political, economic and cultural, altogether capable of threatening the Yoruba nation’s integrity. I can understand President Obasanjo, as a partisan politician, saying that certain other politicians do not deserve to be appointed as leader of the Yoruba nation. But to say that no leader or leadership is needed in Yorubland is a different thing altogether.Has he ever told the Hausa-Fulani elite that Arewa Consultative Forum is unnecessary and should be disbanded? Or has he ever preached the same to any other Nigerian nationality? Why should he seem to want the Yoruba nation to be different from, and weaker than, others?

‘I can understand President Obasanjo, as a partisan politician, saying that certain other politicians do not deserve to be appointed as leader of the Yoruba nation. But to say that no leader or leadership is needed in Yorubland is a different thing altogether’

Ambode’s quest for foreign direct investment laudable

By Adesegun Ogundeji seek job opportunities for our young men and women, literates and illiterates. There is no gainsaying that our youth have become vulnerable to being lured into various types of anti-social activities hitherto alien to our culture.

From high-degree human and drug trafficking, prostitution both at home and abroad, kidnapping, armed robbery, cyber fraud and drug addiction to mention but a few, our country has become a fertile recruitment ground for terrorist organisations. As the popular saying goes, “an idle mind is a devil’s workshop”. This is a frontline problem that must be tackled headlong and a multifarious approach must be employed to achieve desired result.

I hold this position against the background of the piece titled “As Ambode lusts after Wal-Mart” authored by Abimbola Adelakun and published in the Punch of Thursday August 13, 2015. The writer, to my mind, sought to advise the governor to “err on the side of caution”.

Yes, good advice, we need to be circumspect and weigh all options properly so that we don’t further impoverish the people we sought to lift from poverty.

However, some of the assertions or reasons adduced to buttress the seeming disadvantages are not the same with the conditions in the United States used as the country of comparison.

To begin with, the Venezuelan Ambassador to Nigeria, Enrique FernandoArundell, might have told the late Mrs. Dora Akinyuli the home truth by saying that we should look inward and build our country rather than wait for others to do it for us. Statement of fact, but a Yoruba adage says “you can’t in face of starvation continue to say you won’t eat from the pot of your enemy when your friends have no food to offer you”.

True, we have many stupendously rich Nigerians who stack their billions in foreign accounts or prefer to invest outside Nigeria for God knows why. But can we reasonably close our eyes to foreigners who have resources to invest in the country to create the much needed job opportunities and grow the economy just because some of our people refuse to invest in her?

I don’t think so.

Walmart may be a retail outfit like Shoprite but its investment in Nigeria can only be a blessing to the nation and the particular location at this crucial time.

There are not many retail outlets in the format of these giants in Nigeria that may go under in the face of competition. Our trading activities still largely take place in the various local markets where the traders ply their trade in one or two commodities.

The patronage of supermarkets as we know them is largely by the elites and the middle class that form a minute sector of the population. The larger majority still prefer the local haggling system.

The population of Lagos State stands it

in good stead to host the world-renowned retail outlet as its population is well stratified such that all contending forces will consistently find their share of the market without posing threat to others. After all, with all the boutiques in the state, big and small, the Okrika (fairly used clothes) vendors still smile to the banks; the Gutter Ariyofabric market still booms despite the fact that large a group of the elite wear English dresses during the week.

Those of us who know what StrabagYard, the place where Ikeja Mall is located today used to be will not agree that Walmart will be a disservice to Lagos. The Ikeja Mall is of world standard, the jobs created in the course of construction and those in the employment of the various organisations operating therein and the multiplier effect on the economy cannot be overemphasised. To have the likes of Walmart to compete with Shoprite can only make it more efficient and peoplefriendly.

Of major interest is the fact that Walmart is just one of the many investors being wooed. Manufacturing industries that will return Lagos to the position of industrial hub of the nation, employ large number of people, boost creation and development of many Small and Medium Scale industries are the prime targets and will berth in good time to reverse the trend of our unemployment and the attendant negative consequences.

• Ogundeji wrote in from Alausa-Ikeja, Lagos

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THE NATION THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2015

THE NATION THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2015

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THE NATION

EDUCATION

THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2015

educationdeskthenation@gmail.com

The suspension of a Director of the Information and Communications Technology unit of Ignatius Ajuru University of Education (IAUE), Port Harcourt, has polarised the institution. PRECIOUS DIKEWOHA (Port Harcourt) reports:

•Entrance of IAUE.

Don’s suspension sparks tension

T

HE crisis rocking the Ignatius Ajuru University of Education (IAUE) Rumuolumini, Port Harcourt, over the suspension of Professor Dele Osahogulu, a director in the Information Technology unit of the ivory tower, has taken a new dimension. Rumours are making the rounds in the university that the

Vice Chancellor, Prof. Rosemund Dienye Green-Osahogulu, may be fired by the Rivers state government.

The speculations are coming on the heels of the calls by the Academic Staff Union of University (ASUU) IAUE chapter, for the head of Prof Green-Osahogulu over the suspension of their member, who is the vice chancellor’s estranged hus-

INSIDE

Abducted UAM lecturer escapes -Page 37

DR. Joseph Orsar of the University of Agriculture, Makurdi (UAM) who was abducted by unknown gunmen on Friday last week, has escaped.

UNILAG alumnus wins Harvard 7Up scholarship -Page 39

band.

The Nation also learnt that a letter was sent by ASUU to the Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, seeking his intervention in the crisis.

But, Mrs Green-Osahogulu has debunked the rumour of being asked to resign. In a text message to our reporter, she said: "Please ask •Continued on page 26

•Prof Green-Osahogulu

•Dr Agi

‘

Management found the conduct of Prof Osahogulu scandalous, disgraceful and prejudicial. The university authority, therefore, placed him on three-month suspension

’

CAMPUS LIFE

‘

The suspension of our member is an irresponsible application of power. You don't suspend somebody and take away his salaries for three months because of mere allegation

•A 10-page section on campus news, people etc

A campus ritual for Ooni of Ife -Page 29

’

THE NATION THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2015

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EDUCATION

Don seeks African rebranding

A

PROFESSOR of Sociology and Criminal Justice, Virginal State University, Nana Derby, has advocated a rebranding of African identities to free the continent from Western domination.

She spoke on the theme: 'A deconstructionist alternative in postdevelopment Africa at the 42nd public lecture of Covenant University, Ota, Ogun State last Friday.

She said Africa must embrace the developmental philosophy of the founding fathers that fought for her freedom.

"I do not in any way advocate the secession of African nations from the world system," Derby said, adding: "rather, I endore the optimism of the African-centred growth and development that the men and women who spearheaded our freedom instigated.

"How do we establish the foundation so proclaimed several decades ago, and what identities do we project for ourselves. Who speaks for Africa?

And how do we build that Africa capable of managing her own affairs?"

She continued: "The attainment of political independence and the choices of dependency and modernisation plunged us deeper into the world system, not as equal partners, but as dependants and champions of the periphery noted for subservience, deprivation and

•From left: Vice Chancellor, CU, Prof. Charles Ayo (left), Prof Derby (3rd right) and Pastor Yemi Nathaniel (middle) who represented the Chancellor, Dr David Oyedepo at the event.

By Adegunle Olugbamila reappraise the identities that pro- dence on foreign aid has been detri- nomic performances which are

vulnerability. In economic terms, our dependency and peripheral locations were suggestive of longterm trade imbalances, deficits, and limited foreign exchange earnings, Derby added.

“To deconstruct, the continent need to decontextualise our identities, celebrate our differences, and critically

cesses of exploitation, colonisation, enslavement, post colonialism, and economic dependence bestowned on Africa.''

Derby noted that over the last 50 years, Africa’s dependence on Western aids has done her more harm than good, despite that she can tap on her inner deposits to better her lot. '' For over 50 years, Africa’s depen-

mental: yet the continent failed to advocate locally acquired programmes fitting valuable tour citizens and judiciously centred on our unique characteristics,'' the don said.

To add more salt to the injury, African leaders made themselves tools for the emergence of sustenance of African' s negative and poor eco-

‘To deconstruct, the continent needs to decontextualise our identities, celebrate our differences, and critically reappraise the identities that processes of exploitation, colonisation, enslavement, post colonialism, and economic dependence bestowed on Africa’

detrimental to the continent’s growth. She lamented that heavy dependence of African nation on Western countries had been attributed to dysfunctional Institution, bribery, mismanagement and misappropriation of state funds. ''Unfortunately, the funds are misappropriated or siphoned illicitly into personal venture, leaving the states with very little to show for their mounting debts,'' she said.

“African nations need to step out of the perpetual modernisation and dependency-driven development to usher herself into the post-development era of self-reliance,” Derby concluded.

Don’s suspension sparks tension on campus •Continued from page 25 those who said a resignation letter has been given to me to show the letter."

On Tuesday, August 4, following the crisis, ASUU members were chased out of the venue of their meeting by security personnel on the order of the vice-chancellor. The meeting, which was later held at the open field of the university, was to call on Mrs Green-Osahogulu to resign over what the union described as a “ridicule on the image of the university”.

"We have resolved that in view of the spate of ugly, scandalous and disturbing events unfolding in the university involving the vice chancellor, the union wishes to write to the vice chancellor to honourably resign her position as the vice chancellor of Ignatius Ajuru University of Education Port Harcourt due to the following reasons: faked kidnapped saga, extortion of students, inflated price of the purchase of liaison office in Abuja, and abuse of due process in disciplinary issues," ASUU stated in a letter after the meeting.

According to sources, the crisis began as a poorly-managed matrimonial issue between Prof Dele Osahogulu and his wife, Prof GreenOsahogulu, making the duo to wash their dirty linen in public.

Mrs Green-Osahogulu was reportedly kidnapped by unknown gunmen and was later released to the family after eight days in the kidnappers’ den. Shortly afterwards, there was a scandal over whether she was kidnapped. The development caused a division among workers in the university. Although Prof Green-Osahogulu claimed she was kidnapped in June 18 and released on 27 of same month, news of her kidnap was not made public until last month.

However, what was supposed to be an internal affair between Prof Green-Osahogulu and her husband, Dele Osahogulu became a universiy affair when Osahogulu (Dele) was suspended for three months with-

out pay.

Osahogulu, a don and head of the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) unit, was accused of granting an interview to a statebased local tabloid, alleging that his wife’s kidnap was stage-managed.

Osahogulu has since denied the report.

Similarly, the Rivers State Police Command, which earlier confirmed the kidnapping, suddenly made a U-turn. The command's Police Public Relation Officer (PPRO), Ahmad Mohammad, a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP), told The Nation the case “is under investigation.”

"The case of the alleged kidnapping of the VC of IAUE is still being investigated as such. Due to recent revelations, it is only a logical conclusion of the investigation that will determine it to be such or otherwise," Mohammad said.

But Osahogulu's suspension has deepened the face-off between ASUU and some workers loyal to the vice chancellor. ASUU-IAUE Chairman Dr Ugochuchu Agi, described the suspension as an abuse of power by the management. Agi said Osahogulu remains innocent until a court of law rules otherwise.

Agi was later invited by the management and, subsequently, quizzed by security personnel for speaking to the press on the matter.

"Look, we are not in support of the suspension as a union," Agi told our reporter. "The suspension of our member is an irresponsible application of power. You don't suspend somebody and take away his salaries for three months because of mere allegation.”

Agi continued: "I was expecting the university authority to have set up a panel to investigate the allegations

before taking such a hasty decision.

We did not want to be thrown into controversy; we know that our member has fallen victim of kidnapping saga and it is regrettable that all these things are happening without due process.

"There is a rumour that the union suspended him (Dele Osahogulu).

It is the university authority and not ASUU. We, as a union, are against such suspension because there must a process before a decision could be taken.”

Agi’s reaction irked the management which decided to respond via another briefing.

At the event, which took place at the Saint John campus of the university, Mrs Green-Osahogulu, said her estranged husband had admitted before the school management some of the allegations levelled against him.

She said: “Prof Dele Osahogulu was given a query and he denied the said statement published on the local newspaper. He even disowned the newspaper and said that he didn’t make statements even on telephone to any reporter.

“Sequel to the reply, the university management invited Prof Osahogulu to a meeting. While fielding questions from members of the management, he substantially admitted the contents of the said publication but attributed it to his state of mind at the time.

“The university management found the conduct of Prof Osahogulu scandalous, disgraceful and prejudicial to the integrity of the Office of the Vice Chancellor and the reputation of the university. The university authority, therefore, placed him on three-month suspension in the first instance while in-

vestigation into other issues raised in the publication is ongoing.”

Initially, Osahogulu denied granting an interview. He also told our reporter of his denial of the interview credited to him in a local medium.

He said allegations against him by his wife were to tarnish his image, urging the reporter to ascertain the true position of things.

An SMS Osahogulu sent to our reporter reads thus: “My silence on this matter is not admittance; it is in compliance with the IAUE rules and regulations that forbid the granting of press interview by staff.

“The press is the watchdog of the society. If you are convinced that the vice chancellor is deliberately precluding public awareness on my own account, the media should then defend the oppressed and poor folk like me.”

On visiting the university, the reporter observed that the scandal has polarised workers, particularly at the management level. Investigation also showed that certain elements appeared to be fuelling the scandal with the aim of taking over the vice chancellor’s job.

Some workers opposed to the vice chancellor, who spoke to our reporter on condition of anonymity, insisted that her kidnap saga was still unconfirmed. They said the vice chancellor had been calling for the heads of those speaking the truth.

“The vice chancellor is over zealous. You need to see her talking to men during management meetings. She is not popular in this university.The question should be: 'How many students and lecturers sympathised with her purported kidnap? A woman who cannot re-

‘My silence on this matter is not admittance; it is in compliance with the IAUE rules and regulations that forbid the granting of press interview by staff’

spect the husband that married her, who do you think she will respect?” the source said.

Another worker added:"Whether the vice chancellor's kidnap was stage-managed or not, she shouldn't have petitioned her husband. As the head of the university, it was wrong of her to support the suspension of Dele without setting up a panel to investigate the allegations. She is victimising workers unnecessarily.

I suspect her next target will be the ASUU chairman."

Those sympathetic to Prof GreenOsahogulu, but did not wish to be mentioned, justified the suspension.

One of them said calling Mrs Green-Osahogulu names, despite her achievement in the university, was to intimidate her because she is a woman.

"You are a journalist, go and investigate her (vice chancellor’s) achievement in the school; some people are scheming to take over her job using the scandal. She was not the one that suspended Prof Dele, it was the authority. The management invited Dele and after questioning him took the decision because of his nonchalant behaviour; so why call the vice chancellor name?"

Students who also reacted to the issue pleaded anonymity.

A source in the IAUE Students' Union said: "Our position is that it is regrettable that this university is now being mocked because of one allegation or the other. We are really disappointed with the authority over this. You can imagine the kind of shameful act displayed the last time ASUU was having their meeting, and the vice chancellor ordered that they be sent out of the hall. It is that bad."

Efforts to get the Directorate of State Security Service (DSS) and Police to speak further on the matter were futile. But a source from the DSS, who did not want to be named, said workers who were involved in the incident had been invited and grilled.

THE NATION THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2015

27

EDUCATION

Parents seek principal’s probe for alleged corruption •Fed Govt petitioned over ‘illegal’ school fees •Principal: I won’t talk. I am a civil servant

P

ARENTS and guardians of students of the Federal Government College, Efon Alaaye in Ekiti State, have petitioned the Presidency and the Federal Ministry of Education accusing the Principal, Mrs. Grace Ogunyemi, of corruption.

In their petition, a copy of which was made available to The Nation, they accused Mrs. Ogunyemi of extorting money from their wards through imposition of illegal fees without the knowledge of the ministry.

The aggrieved parents and guardians in the petition signed by their Chairman, Tolu Ajibade, Secretary Paul Omotayo and 57 others, urged President Muhammadu Buhari to raise a panel to probe the matter to prevent further exploitation.

They attached a list of their grievances to the petition, including all related circulars regarding fees from the Federal Ministry of Education which Ogunyemi allegedly ran foul of.

Besides, the principal was also alleged of running the college like her private estate through “declaration of unapproved holidays and resumptions while teachers and non-teaching staff were isolated from the running of the school,“ the petition fur-

From Odunayo Ogunmola, Ado Ekiti

ther added.

They accused Ogunyemi of running the college like a typical private school because of the exorbitant fees charged, thereby making life difficult for poor parents who had thought a federal school would give them some succour.

The petition reads in part: “We have since found out that the principal was merely acting alone as such fees were never approved by the ministry.

“We also have in our custody, a recent circular from the Federal Ministry, signed by the Director, Department of Secondary Education, Mr. D.C. Uwaezuoke and dated June 23, 2015 stating details of approved fees payable by students, but which the principal has continually ignored.

“We want Mr. President and the ministry to act fast so that his good vision of transforming the education sector and making it affordable and accessible is not truncated by the activities of elements such as the principal of our children’s school,” the parents said.

According to them, the Federal Government must ensure that an external

auditor was also sent to the school while the principal must be made to refund illegal fee so far collected from parents and pupils to avoid crisis.

The parents threatened to embark on street protests as well as disrupt students’ resumption if no action is taken to address their grievances before resumption.

Reacting to the allegations against her, Mrs Ogunyemi said she should be appreciated for what she called “the great work” she had done at the college. In a telephone chat with our reporter, she said: “You know I am a civil servant. I am not supposed to talk on this matter, but you can come over to the school when we resume and see what God has done through me in that school.

“You are entitled to your opinion and I am entitled to my opinion. In whatever you do, don’t let other people use you to bring down somebody else.

“I am at present in Abuja. I am not in Efon now, but you can visit the school and see what I have done.’’ Federal Government Girls College, Efon came first in the Southwest region in Mathematics and you can verify what we have achieved since we came in.

“Those doing this are pursuing some interests; the mischief of human beings cannot stop the work of God,” Mrs Ogunyemi added.

•Udefa (left) and Zealous displaying their awards.

Honour for two RIV-POLY students

T

HE Rivers State Polytechnics (RIV-POLY), now Saro-Wiwa Polytechnics, will celebrate two outstanding students who won awards at a debate competition in Zimbabwe.

The management said the only way to encourage hardworking students is to celebrate their gift of excellence, especially when they prove to the world that polytechnics remain the centre for excellence.

The Deputy Rector, Daboikiabo Princewill, who broke the news in Port Harcourt, said two of their students - Miss Essien Enamfon Udefa of the Department of Science Laboratory Technology and Mr. Zealous Koate of Mechanical Engineering Technology - were the first runnerup at the National Public Speaking and Debate Championship for Tertiary Institutions in Nigeria held at Ajasin Adekunle University Akungba-Akoko, and University of Uyo.

From Precious Dikewoha, Port Harcourt

The duo represented Nigeria in the grand finale, clinching the first position at the event which took place in Great Zimbabwe University, Masvingo.

Daboikiabo said: "We are, particularly, happy that two of our students, who represented Nigeria, have made the country proud. This, indeed, is worthy of celebration and we are planning big to celebrate them. They put Nigeria on the continental map and in the frontier of academic excellence.

"The joy in our heart is enormous and we will continue to honour exceptional students of the polytechnics."

The chairman of the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) RIVPOLY chapter, Comrade Ferry Barineka Gberegbe, said the students would be fully rewarded, adding that it is the responsibility of the union to encourage hard work and bring justice to all.

Teachers, librarians urged to EACHERS ought to know that use library learning is not only achieved in classrooms but also in the

T

•Registrar, Elizade University, Ilara-Mokin Ondo State, Mr.Omolulu Adegbenro (2nd right) with Vice President Yemi Osibajo during the latter's visit to the university. With them is the Founder of the University, Chief Michael Ade-Ojo (in white Agbada) and others..

library which serves as the school engine room, the Director, Lagos State Library Board, Mr Tajudeen Lawal. has said.

He said library plays a crucial role in education as it encourages reading habit, provides books and other information and instructs students in the use of library resources and recreational reading. Lawal spoke at the yearly capacity building workshop for teachers/librarian/librarian assistants on effective utilisation of library in public primary school,

From Corps member, pupils get entrepreneurship tips

A

NATIONAL Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member, Miss Yetunde Sanni, of the 2014 Batch C, has trained 56 pupils from various public secondary schools in Lagos on some entrepreneurship skills.

The Microbiology graduate of the University of Lagos (UNILAG), with the help of some others, took the pupils through make-up and head-gear tying, catering and event decoration, ankara craft, photography and bead making.

Speaking to The Nation at the Isolo Local Government Development Area (LCDA), venue of the training, Sanni said since she would be signing out of the NYSC programme in October, she decided to do the training as a project and to contribute to the society.

"As a young entrepreneur, my passion made me think about giving opportunities to other young people and I also saw it as giving back to the society while I am still doing my youth service," she said.

She said trainee pupils were drawn from seven school in Isolo LCDA, which she selected after visiting the schools as a means of catching the pupils young. Asked how she got funds to carry out the project, she said the programme was funded by some corporate bodies, and some kindhearted individuals.

By Medinat Kanabe

According to her, she raised over N350 000 for the project. As a professional make-up artist, Sanni said she taught the make-up class but got other professionals to teach the pupils other vocations.

She called on the Federal Government to consolidate on its achievements on entrepreneurship.

She recounted that her greatest challenge was funding. "It wasn't easy for people to assist because it is not everybody that believes in your dream. You have to keep going to offices, writing letters and doing follow-up. If that is out of it, I think we will have a lot of things going on in our society.

"We actually planned on empowering secondary school pupils only but

adults came in to join us. I was surprised on the first day," she added.

She advised the students to continue from where she stopped.

"It doesn't stop here. This is just a starting point for you,’’ she said.

On her part, HOD Education, Isolo LCDA, Mrs Olajumoke Akinyemi praised Sanni for her effort.

•Some of the beneficiaries (in bridal and native attires) with Sanni (fourth left) during the make-up class.

By Jane Chijioke

organised by the Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) at SUBEB Hall, Maryland.

Lawal explained that school libraries were in the past relegated to the background, noting that nowadays, they have become central to teaching.

Lawal said: "Children need more than recitation and drill in the traditional teacher-directed classroom; they need opportunities to interact with resources and teach on their own the art room, science laboratory, garden and the library. Education they said, should be child centered or learner centered.”

Lawal noted that the Federal Government recognises the importance of library, which is evident in its National Policy of Education; that mandates states to generate funds for establishing libraries and training librarians.

SUBEB Secretary, Mrs Abosede Adelaja, urged participants to make the library accessible for pupils.

"Your duty is to go out of your school library and encourage the pupils to make use of them. Make your library attractive to them. When you have a library and pupils do not use it, then you have not achieved anything," she said.

She also advised them to improvise libraries where they have none and also sort out funds in establishing a library in the school.

"If you do not have enough classrooms for library, we can have ready corners where we use as our library. The solution is in our hands.

We use what we have to get what we want. The problem is: we are not ready to go the extra mile. We can help ourselves by seeking assistance from outside our school. You have to do something to uplift the library, look inwards and ask yourselves 'what can I do'?’’ she said.

She said the workshop was aimed at going back to the basics to improve learning standards through the use of a library. This would make pupils to desire to learn and improve their spoken English.

THE NATION THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2015

28

EDUCATION GRADUATION

GRADUATION

GRADUATION

Work with school on careers, parents urged

P

RINCIPAL of Wellspring College, Mrs Oluyemisi Oloriade, has urged parents to cooperate with the school in helping their wards choose career paths.

During the valedictory service for the class of 2015, Mrs Oloriade said the results of some psychological tests by the school on the pupils to discover their potential were at variance with some parents’ desires for their wards.

She said the tests, however, proved the school’s counseling department right in guiding pupils to study subjects that would lead them to exploit their areas of strength and urged parents to accept the results.

This, she explained, would help pupils be more productive as professionals as they would settle into fulfilling careers.

She said: “Mi-Genius Psychological Test was conducted on our students to enable them discover their potentials early in life. This test is very important as it prevents people from going into studies and careers that they would be struggling to succeed in.

“Some of the results conformed to

By Kofoworola Belo-Osagie

the advice and directive given by the counseling department of the school.

We appeal to our parents to cooperate with the school in directing these children where they will flow easily academically and ultimately have job satisfaction.”

Oloriade recalled the school’s success in the 2014 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) – where the school recorded 100 per cent in 14 subjects - including Mathematics and the sciences.

She counseled the graduands to build on the solid foundation the school had laid for them academically and morally.

“To you, the outgoing students, I am convinced that you have been adequately nurtured and tutored to go out there and compete favourably with the best of your contemporaries.

It is now left to you to live out what you have learnt,” she said.

Chairman of the occasion, Mr Ayoku Liadi, a Divisional Directorate Head with UBA Plc and the

•Graduands being prayed for by their parents as they bear gifts for them as a mark of appreciation.

preacher, Dr Tony Alabi, also advised the graduands.

Liadi, represented by Mr Lekan Balogun, Corporate Head, UBA Lagos Mainland District, counselled the graduands to be guided by their vision for their lives.

On his part, Pastor Alabi urged the

the school, Mr D.C. Isimoya. In appreciation, the graduands presented their parents with gifts. The programme also featured prize-giving for pupils, who excelled in all areas of school life. There were special songs and dance presentations.

‘We match education with talents’

Pupil shines brightest at Mind Builders

P

F

OR Miriam Atobiloye, standing close to the podium saved her the trouble of going back and forth when her name was repeatedly called for awards.

It was at the graduation and prizegiving day of Mindbuilders Schools Alausa, Lagos. She bagged 19 awards, the highest on the occasion.

Atobiloye bagged awards in others in academics and endowment. She could not contain her excitement. She was all smiles.

"I am so happy I can't even express it. God is always first so I pray and work hard. If you pray and don't work hard, nothing will come out of it and vice versa. So, prayer and diligence helped,” she told The Nation.

Atobiloye, who was the former head girl and has the ambition of being a pediatrician, while delivering the valedictory speech, told her juniors to buckle up and work hard because "there is no time to waste".

She urged them not to be deterred by life's challenges, adding that despite the challenges that came with her father’s death two years ago, she could not be hindered from achieving her dream.

The principal, Mr Francis Fasuyi, said the graduating pupils were creative and intelligent.

"Education is not only about academics, I can see that they have mixed abilities. Some are creative, some athletic, social and they all blend in all areas. We always give our students word of encouragement. To look at the perfection, do things in perfection. Although no one is perfect, but you work towards it," he said.

The school's Director, Mrs Bola Falore, advised the graduands to push themselves harder and aim high to achieve their desired success.

"As you pass out of High School today, the odyssey into the real world begins; the world is not picture-perfect. Your parents and teachers have shielded you from many threats, but growing up means letting go of their nurturing. You are the representative of MindBuilders, hence you must work hard and push yourself to bring pride and glory to your alma mater," she advised.

The guest speaker at the ceremony, Pastor Ngozi Nwadialo, who is the

pupils to connect with God’s favour so that they can enjoy men’s favour as well.

“God’s favour upon your life is what will take you to heights,” he said.

Highpoint of the programme was prayer session for the graduands by their parents led by the founder of

• Miriam with some of her awards.

By Oluwatoyin Adeleye

School Administrator of S. T. and T. Regency College, Ikeja, spoke about the dividends of discipline, integrity and accountability as one advances to the next phase in life.

Speaking with The Nation on the sideline, she said: "The fundamental thing they must have is discipline because it is the birthroot of anybody in this life. Whether you are old or young, we are particular about the youth being disciplined because we have a lot of distractions, especially in the present Information and Communications Technology (ICT) age.

“And now they are going to the next stage of their life, their parents are not going to reach them well except through telephone or a visit.

They are accountable for everything they do, so the whole responsibility is on them.”

Outgone head boy, Victor Enike, was nostalgic about leaving his alma mater.

Although excited about moving on, he said: "My experience in Mind Builders has been wonderful right from the day I stepped into the school compound. So, I would miss

the school a lot. I had a few problems with controlling the students, they were sometimes uncooperative, but it all worked out in the end," he said.

ROPRIETOR of Prestige International School, Calabar, Cross River State capital, Mrs Mayen Inyanya Mbuk, has said children's education should be tailored along their talents than what their parents and society expect.

At the school’s end-of-year programme, Mrs Inyanya Mbuk said every child is unique, hence, the need to acknowledge their uniqueness from a very early age.

She said: "Today, we celebrate our children. They are stars and special and that is how we see them. It is not about being first or second in class.

All that is good; but it is more about expressing their talents and being the best. It is that talent that makes you unique and that is what we do here.

We try and discover and bring out the uniqueness of these children and we build on it.”

She continued: "It is not every child that must be a physicist, or doctor.

We realise that from the beginning and that is our niche. Our focus here is on the early years.

“We want to ensure that the foundation is proper. Once that is done, then it would be easy for the child to grow.

"If you go to other climes, they are not very particular about whether you are going to be a doctor. They are particular about discovering that talent in you and developing them.

These talents would make them stars.

"We also ensure that we go back to what makes the complete child. What

From Nicholas Kalu, Calabar

is being taught and who teaches it, how it is taught and who teaches it.

Here also, we are particular about who does the delivery. So we try to get the best of teachers that we can find and that is very important. Our tradition badge and identities are excellence. We are trying to recruit the best hands for them. It is key if we must deliver on education. It is not only the certificates, but also who is the teacher that matters.

Both Mbuk and Director, the state Inspectorate Division of the Ministry of Education, Mr Inah James, emphasised the need to revive the reading culture among pupils and students.

"This problem is because we have been so focused on certificates. If you get a child to get to read, chances are that the child is 80 per cent of being successful. So, we focus so much on reading. We are trying to get back to that culture. The reading culture is one we cannot afford to do without.

"Ministries of Education should interface more with the schools to know what they are doing. Most of these schools are not giving the children what they should be giving them."

"The problem is that the children have lost the art of reading and writing. Most of the children don't even know where the library is located.

Even in our various houses, they now play with phones from morning till night,”added Mr James.

• Cultural display during graduation of God's Time Schools, Abule-Eguu, Mowe, Ogun State.

Bride writes exam on wedding day

*CAMPUSES

Oath of selflessness

*NEWS *PEOPLE *KUDOS& KNOCKS

Page 31

*GRANTS

Page 34

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CAMPUS LIFE 0805-450-3104 email: campusbeat@yahoo.com

THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2015

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email:- campuslife@thenationonlineng.net

It was all comedy last week when some students of the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) in Ile-Ife, Osun State organised a parody of the Oro rite being held by Ife chiefs in preparation for the funeral of the late Ooni of Ife, Oba Okunade Sijuwade. AFEEZ LASISI (300-Level Political Science) reports.

A campus ritual for Ooni of Ife A

GROUP of spiritualists carrying a sacrifice to the shrine to appease the deities. Leading the procession was the Oluawo (chief priest), who was clad in white cloths and a red blanket he fastened around his head. Behind him is an Ifa (divination) priest, who chanted dirges to which other initiates responded.

Trailing them is an Oro (the spirit), who carried the object of sacrifice – a teddy bear. They all move in measured steps, hissing endlessly as the procession makes its way to the ‘shrine’.

This was how students of the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) in Ile-Ife, Osun State performed the ‘final rites’ for the late Ooni of Ife, Oba Okunade Sijuwade, who died on July 28 in London. The whole affair was a mimicry of the traditional rites that were simultaneously being performed

by Ife chiefs on Wednesday, last week in preparation for the king’s burial.

Since the Ooni’s death was announced, Ile-Ife, the ancient town which hosts the university – has been agog with traditional rituals. The palace declared a seven-day dawn-todusk curfew in the town for the final rite for the late monarch, during which Oro sacrifice was performed.

To ensure compliance with the institution’s host community’s tradition, the OAU management released a memo, warning students to stay indoors for the period when the rite would be performed.

On Wednesday, last week when the palace chiefs gathered to perform the Oro rite, some students also gathered themselves to organise a mockery of the ritual.

Students residing in the hostels woke up to the shouts of “Oro! Oro!!

Oro!!!”. It all started in a room in Awolowo Hall. Some students moved round the hostel to call their colleagues for a parody of the traditional formality.

In their usual manner, the students’ version of the Oro rite turned out to be an Aro (a comic display), which

dramatised the traditional funeral rite being held in honour of the late Ooni.

Olufemi Akande, a non-teaching staff member, who witnessed the show, said he overheard some students shouting: “E je ki a lo gbe oro”(let us also perform oro rite).

“They chanted this as they came out in their numbers. Before we know what was happening, oro emerged from nowhere and the students quickly gathered materials they considered needed to perform the comic display and set for the task,” Akande said.

The oro rite started at 9 am at the Anglomoz Car Park with about 14 students. The crowd grew as the procession moved round the Halls of Residence. Staff and students watched in bewilderment as the procession passed by.

Akande added: “The late Ooni could not have had a better funeral.”

Traditionally, it is an abomination for women to watch oro, but this was not the case at the OAU. There was excitement in the female hostels as the procession stopped by. Many of the girls joined the procession.

The chief priest said: “Eyin olosho ogba yi, e tewo gba ebo wa” (we beseech women of easy virtue on campus to accept our sacrifice).

The student, who played oro, said at the entrance of female hostels: “If you are not a virgin, don’t look at me.

It is dangerous for a girl who has been deflowered to look at me. Only a virgin is allowed.”

As the oro was being taking into the female hostel, a male student, who played woli (prophet), prayed: “I decree that this campus be free of women of easy virtue, oppression, fee increment, unstable power supply…”

Members of the procession replied with shouts of ase, Yoruba for “amen”.

Asked why the oro performers did not talk to many people, one of them said oro does not talk until it is given a plate of Indomie and chicken.

•The students taking the Oro round the hostels

A curious female student asked why the prophet was part of the procession; the woli said the rite was in line with 21st century culture. The excited female students burst into laughter as they were being entertained by their male counterpart.

As they made appeasement to the gods, the ‘chief priest’ said: “The spirit needs to take bread and you girls must find the bread to make appeasement for the gods.”

The statement elicited responses from the female students, who asked the ‘chief priest’ whether the spirits do eat. Some of the girls said: “Do

spirits speak English in the land of the dead? Prove to us that you are from the land of the dead.”

When nobody offered them food, the babaalawos returned to their hostels. The performance excited students, who described it as the most hilarious show of the session.

A student, who identified himself as John, said: “I am not surprised at the comical display of the Awolowo Hall residents. Their version of Oro amuses and it confirms that Awolowo Hall residents are brilliant when it comes to performing something hilarious.”

Another student, who gave her name as Folashade Adeoti, said the Oro display made the campus lively after lectures were suspended because of the Ooni’s burial.

She said: “When I woke up this morning, everywhere looked dull because there was no lecture. I felt relaxed when I observed the Oro performance by Awolowo Hall boys.”

A student, Shayo, who played the Ifa priest, said: “We did not want the campus to be in boredom; that was why we gathered ourselves to organise a parody of the Oro ritual.”

•‘Technical education key to solving unemployment’ •‘Why education standard is falling’ -P32

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Pushing Out

Why reading matters

with

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OOKS are the quietest and most constant of friends; they are the most accessible and wisest of counselors, and the most patient of teachers - Charles W. Elio Three years ago, I went to the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) Ojodu/Berger office in Lagos to renew my national drivers licence. After delivering a short lecture on safe driving rules and car maintenance, the official who took us through the lecture appealed to us to help pass the message that the commission has more than 10 centres spread across Lagos for Nigerians to renew their licences.

He said he was compelled to seek our help in passing on the message because of the huge crowd the office had to contend with on a daily basis when other centres barely have patronages. “Why don’t you advertise in newspapers for Nigerians to know this?”

Someone asked the official. “We have done that severally, but we discovered that Nigerians don’t read that is why we are appealing to you to help pass the message around,” the official said.

When the “Bring Back the Book Campaign” was launched with fanfare in Lagos in December 2010 most Nigerians rallied round former President Goodluck Jonathan who appeared to be bent on halting the disdain that - many people believe - the typical Nigerian leader has for books and other intellectual materials.

To convince Nigerians that the campaign was not a political fluke aimed at scoring cheap publicity and endorsement for his regime, Jonathan secured the confidence of the Nobel laureate, Prof. Wole Soyinka, and other leading lights in the sector for the cause to revitalise the book industry and our reading culture.

At the inauguration of the project, Jonathan and Soyinka read passages from some books to pupils and other lovers of books. It was a spectacle of cultural, musical and oratorical performances, all for the sake of the book.

Spearheaded by the late Special Adviser to the former President on Policy and Strat-

Agbo Agbo 08116759750 (SMS only)

•aagboa@gmail.com egy, Oronto Douglas, the campaign generated hope and won more converts for the book. But it all appeared a flash in the pan as interests dwindled after the euphoria generated by the launch died down.

These two events – and many others – point to our very low reading culture in the country, a culture that others have successfully used to their benefits because of the values books and reading brings. Important as reading is, why are Nigerians not reading? I really don’t know. As a result, the ratio of students who can read and effectively communicate is dwindling every year.

Reading has at all times and in all ages been a great source of knowledge. Just as out bodies need appropriate amounts of food and exercise to function properly, so do our minds, it too need a similar type thing. Reading provides the mind with the ‘food’ and exercise it needs to be sharp and efficient. It strengthens the muscles of the mind.

Reading skills are essential to succeed in society. Those who are good readers tend to exhibit progressive social skills. A person who is widely read is able to mix with others. He is a better conversationalist then those who do not read. He can stand his ground. Reading broadens the vision. It is in a way a substitute for travel. It is not possible to travel as much one would like, but reading can fill in the gap created by the lack of travel.

Having confidence in reading only comes from the daily practice of reading. A good reader can interact with others in a far better way because reading has widened his vision and point of view. Thus a widely-read man is a better conversationalist and is able to see the other side point of view.

Researchers have found that there is a strong correlation between reading and academic

ideas, follow arguments and detect implications. Good readers can extract from the writing what is important for the particular task they are employed in and they can do it quickly.

There is also a strong correlation between reading and vocabulary knowledge. Individuals who have large vocabulary are usually good readers. This isn’t surprising since the best way to acquire large vocabulary is to read extensively and if you read extensively you’re likely to be or become a good reader. Most good readers have also been found to be good writers as well.

Books are no doubt very faithful friend of a reader. They never betray but accompany the reader, either sitting alone or traveling. They soothe and relieve tension and loneliness. Some medical experts say reading plays a vital role in checking depression and anxiety. It has been said that even if you don’t go to school, reading can broaden your horizons and teach you things.

We live in a rapidly advancing world where everything is moving so fast that keeping pace is sometimes daunting. However, with books we can substantially bridge the gap as reading can make a stagnant, barren mind rich and ‘cultivatable’ by pouring rich thoughts into our minds; this ends up bringing the best out of someone. Reading also helps one to see the present in relation to the past and the future thereby helping individuals develop historical perspectives to issues.

This perspective is often brought into focus through education which, to me, is far more than the marks we receive in school. It’s about understanding right from wrong and having the knowledge we need to stay afloat in today’s society. It helps to further develop our perspective in the world around and pushes us to think

Ikechukwu Njoku has just graduated from the Department of Biochemistry at the Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT). Despite his science orientation, he has a flair for creative writing and has written a fiction book. He tells KINGSLEY AMATANWEZE (Material and Metallurgical Engineering) what inspires his writing.

‘My fictions are based on reality’

•Ikechukwu

W

HEN did you discover you have a flair for writing?

I discovered my talents when I was young. Precisely, I was 14 years old when I found out that I could write. Since then, I have been developing the talent.

Which area of writing do you have your passion?

My passion is in fiction writing. Although I also engage in general article writing but I have flair for fictions.

How many fiction books have you written so far?

I have four completed novels. One of them, Tale of a crying dog, was pub-

success. A student who is a good reader is more likely to do well in school and pass exams than a student who is a weak reader. A good reader can understand the individual sentences and organisational structure of a piece of writing. They can comprehend

lished last year. The book has 197 pages. The three others are yet to be published, because I am still working on them. I write every day to update the remaining books.

What inspires your writings?

I am inspired by the happenings in the county and situations around me.

All my writings are based on true-life stories and experiences of people. So, I use my fiction to address the challenges for authorities to be aware of such conditions.

What are your goals as a writer?

The goal of every writer, to me, is for everybody in the world to have a copy of his book. But, my goal is quite different from that. I want to inspire people, especially the youth, through my writings.

What are the challenges you are facing in writing?

As a writer, one is bound to face many challenges. Sometimes, when I write in the night, my parent would be bothered and they would ask me to go to bed. Sometimes, you may be looking for inspiration and start going from one place to another. And another time, I discovered I was not studying my books any longer, because I excessively engaged myself in writing. But with God, I am surmounting every challenge that I have been facing.

How were you able to combine

Biochemistry with your literary engagement?

It was not easy for me, because these are distinct intellectual endeavours.

But, with the help of God, I could combine both excellently. At a time, it was a challenge for me. I did pray over it, because it was actually not easy at a point. I thank God surmounted the challenge.

Do you wish you had studied literature in the university?

I do not regret studying Biochemistry, because from the outset, my dream had been to become a professional in biological science field. To me, writing is a natural gift, which is endowed in me by God. Who is your role model?

My role models are Chinua Achebe and my mother. I love Achebe’s style of writing, while my mother motivates me.

What is your advice to budding writers like you?

They should not relent. They should keep writing and never be discouraged. God knows why he gave us the potentials and we must fulfil it to the glory of God. Where do you see yourself in the next five years?

I want to see myself as a prominent writer and see my works in every parts of the world.

both creatively and conceptually about different subjects.

Some people stop reading the moment they leave school. But in the world we play, many employers are looking for employees who develop themselves and know beyond what they are taught in school. This is the reason why most job interviews today are done unconventionally. It is only those who know this that can prepare for it.

Over the years, I have also discovered that reading helps people grow as individuals. It opens our minds to many things that we may not have been exposed to before. Through it we know different cultures, religions and thought processes that we may never be exposed to otherwise. How would one – for instance - have known about the ‘untouchables,’ (160 m people tainted by their birth into a caste system that deems them impure and less than human) of India without reading?

I equally spend a decent amount of time reading about technological and scientific advancements, and most of it never fails to blow my mind. From Google Glass to burst of 3D printing machines that are popping up and creating everything from human organs, edible food to e-cigarettes one wouldn’t know all these if one is not such a voracious reader.

Reading someone’s thoughts or composing your own is an entirely different experience than speaking to people. When you read there is time to go over passages and try and figure out what was really meant. You can talk back to the writers as they are ‘speaking’ without really ‘interrupting’ them. You can stop and highlight passages you find thought provoking or troublesome. Reading also allows for communication between people who have never or will never meet.

Finally, reading is an art. It is more than just comprehending words on paper. It is an interactive and lively experience for the imagination and a respite for the soul. Characters and story plots come alive in the mind. An entire world can be created simply by letting the imagination digest the language. It lets one enjoy the world around, through personal experiences and point of view.

All memories and senses are awake when reading and yet while the outside world is still, the mind and imagination run wild. Reading gives temporary reprieve from the pressures of life and creates a new identity and a new environment.

It is about learning. New ideas and opinions are introduced. Theories are proven or disproved. It is discovery in its most basic element.

VC urges varsity administrators to tackle unemployment

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HE Vice-Chancellor (VC) of the Adekunle Ajasin University in Akungba-Akoko (AAUA), Ondo State, Prof Igbekele Ajibefun, has urged university administrators to focus on entrepreneurship and skill acquisition programmes to enable the nation fight unemployment.

Ajibefun made the call while declaring open the maiden Faculty of Education International Conference held at the Nelson Mandela Hall on Tuesday.

The three-day, with the theme: Promoting entrepreneurship opportunities for sustainable development in the 21st Century, brought together experts from various institutions to discuss unemployment and its solutions.

The VC identified peoples’ unending search for white-collar job and their neglect of vocational education as causes of unemployment, saying the conventional education emphasised paper qualification at the expense of skills.

He said: “Early in the 21st Century, we discovered this anomaly and we made efforts to set the records straight, through the incorporation of entrepreneurship in the curriculum and making emphasis on vocational education.

We called for government’s supports by releasing funds to start it.”

The VC said AAUA had incul-

From Richard Adura-Ilesanmi AAUA cated entrepreneurship in its curriculum and set up Centre for Entrepreneurship Development to focus on teaching on self-reliance in partnership with private firms.

“There can be no doubt that, in a nation where more than 60 per cent of its youths are jobless and some are criminally-inclined, the best contribution that any organisation or an individual can offer is to make entrepreneurial skills and training available to the unemployed youths to enable them achieve personal empowerment and self-development,” he added.

Earlier in his address, the Dean of the faculty, Prof Sunday Amuseghan, said the initiative was part of the commitment of the faculty to vision and mission of the university. He praised the management for giving support for the conference.

In their separate keynote presentations, Prof Richard Cooper of Temple University in Philadelphia, Unite States, Prof Olufemi Bamiro, former VC of University of Ibadan (UI), and Prof Ibukun Williams, Director, AAUA Leadership Institute for Public Policy and Sustainable Development, outlined a number of recommendations for the promotion of entrepreneurship opportunities in the country.

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Bride writes exam on wedding day Which is the most important between a wedding and an examination? For Oluwatunmise Adejube, an HND 1 Accountancy student of Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo (RUGIPO), Ondo State, both are dear. On her wedding day, after she was pronounced a new bride, Oluwatunmise rushed to the school to write an exam. ENIOLA OLURANKINSE reports.

I

T appeared like an Aro (a comic display) taken too far. All was silent in the examination hall as students prepared to write a tough paper. Then a lady, clad in a sparkling wedding gown, sauntered in, walking dazzlingly on the narrow path between the hall benches.

Before invigilators at the Old Auditorium, the exam venue, understood what was happening, the tension-soaked atmosphere became relaxed as the lady’s action elicited laughter from the stressed students, who thought it was all a drama. But, this was not a comedy, neither was it a rib-tickling stunt. It all happened at Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo (RUGIPO) in Ondo State.

The lady, Oluwatunmise Adejube, was actually a candidate for the examination.

After she said “yes I do” to her beau, Oluwatumise, a student of Department of Accountancy, hurriedly left the Owo Local Government Area, where she swore matrimonial oath, and rushed to the school for her Higher National Diploma (HND) 1 examination.

She created a scene when she breezed into the examination hall in her flowing wedding gown. She was accompanied by a group of ladies, who formed her bridal

train. They stormed the school in a convoy of three exotic cars.

Barely an hour later, Oluwatunmise rushed out of examination hall to reception, where her husband and guests were waiting for her arrival at the ceremony.

An invigilator, who spoke told CAMPUSLIFE on condition of anonymity, said Oluwatumise was allowed to write the paper despite her lateness for the exam because of her determination not to be carried away by the euphoria of her wedding.

Speaking with our reporter after writing the paper, Oluwatumise, who now answers Mrs Adesina, said she had no choice than to leave the court room to write the paper, stressing that her education was as important to her as her marriage.

She said: “When the wedding date was fixed some months ago, nobody knew it would clash with my second semester examination.

What appears to be a saving grace for me is that, both the wedding and examination are taking place in the same town. If otherwise, I would have missed the three-unit paper and carry it automatically.”

The groom, Adesina, told CAMPUSLIFE that he was startled

•Oluwatunmise writing the exam

when his bride told him the examination timetable clashed with the wedding. He said he , Production Management, was considered the toughest and her spouse would be

writing the paper on the day of their wedding.

He said: “I really praised her dogged determination. It was like a tug of war because she had to pre-

pare for her exam and ran around for the wedding at the same time.

Now that the confusion is over, I give thanks to God for making it easy for us.”

Students of the Federal Polytechnic, Kaduna State (KADPOLY) have won the 2015 Enactus Entrepreneurship Challenge held last week at the Civic Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos. The team will represent Nigeria at a global contest in South Africa, reports WALE AJETUNMOBI.

•The KADPOLY students displaying their prizes

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F the over 40 teams that presented life-changing entrepreneurial projects they carried out in 27 states, only 20 teams with excellent projects qualified to participate in the contest. At the end, the team, which developed an electricity project, was adjudged to be the best of all.

This project earned the Federal Polytechnic, Kaduna (KADPOLY) team the first prize at the end of the 2015 Enactus National Entrepreneurship Competition held last week at Civic Centre, Victoria Island in Lagos. The theme of the event was: Enabling progress.

By the feat, the KADPOLY students will represent Nigeria in World Cup Challenge in Johannesburg, South Africa in October, having defeated

•Some members of panel of judges with students at the final round

Behold the entrepreneurship champs their counterparts from the Federal University of Agriculture (UNIAGRIC) in Markurdi, Benue State, and Ekiti State University (EKSU) in the national round.

Enactus, a Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), engages students in activities aimed at solving various challenges facing many communities by designing and strategically implementing community-based projects using innovative and business solutions that will improve livelihoods and transform the communities socially, economically and environmentally.

Addressing the students at the event,

the United States (U.S.) Ambassador to Nigeria, James Entwistle, said the growing African population would unlock tremendous opportunities for the youth to use technology for economic growth. He said the opportunities would only be at the reach of young people if they were educated and acquired skills.

Describing Nigerian youths as ardent social and business entrepreneurs, the envoy said: “Working in teams to shape your projects and competing with your peers, you have acquired valuable skills. You now have the responsibility placed on your shoulder to serve as strong, positive

role models for Nigeria and Africa.

In five to 10 years, you and your peers will be the ones making major decisions in government, business and civil society.”

The contest started on Tuesday with review and screening of the projects.

The qualified teams were divided into four leagues, with each having five teams to present their projects in the opening round of the competition.

Two teams with outstanding plans from each of the four leagues advanced to the semi-final round, which had the successful teams to be grouped in two leagues of four teams each. The teams adjudged to have used the

power of innovation to sustainably change the lives of people in their target communities moved to the final round.

The two qualifying teams, UNIAGRIC and KADPOLY slugged it out with their counterpart from EKSU, which won the 2014 edition.

The KADPOLY electricity project involved the use of recycled materials, car alternator, bicycle wheel and polyvinylchloride pipes to construct a windmill that generated 2,400 Watts of power to serve the Angwan Pah community.

•Continued on page 36

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•Prof Egbule (middle) with other members of the association after the seminar

‘Technical education key to solving unemployment’

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OW vocational education can be used to solve the nation’s employment crisis was the focus of discussion at a seminar organised by Nigeria Vocational Association (NVA) at the Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH) in Yaba, Lagos, last week.

At the forum with the theme: Partnership in Technical and Vocational Education Training (TVET), discussants agreed that human development and skills acquisition have the potential to create millions of jobs for youths if explored.

NVA President, Prof Patrick Egbule, said the strategic relevance of TVET in promoting culture of skill acquisition was being recognised daily. He

From Mark Orgu LAGOS said partnership for development in any area of human endeavour was not new, noting that it remained the goal of many societies facing development challenges, including environmental sustainability, peace, security and economic development.

He noted that the nation was being daily threatened by vices, such as armed robbery, kidnapping, corruption, poverty and insurgency, observing that unemployment remained the cause of the problems. He said TVET had aims to address the challenges and strengthen individuals to intensify their reach in entrepreneurship

and production-based business.

Former Registrar, National Business and Technical Examinations Board (NABTEB), Emeritus Professor Olu Aina, said lack of adequate funding of vocational education compounded the nation’s challenges. He said African Union, in 2006, called for constant investment in vocational education for African countries to combat poverty and give opportunities to the youth.

He said countries could achieve this by partnering with private sector to boost technical education, which, he said, would train youths in relevant skills and upgrade their competence.

The NABTEB Registrar, Dr Aworanti Olatunde, said public-private partnership in technical and vocational training would make a huge difference in job creation. He said there is no nation that could achieve development without skilled workforce, noting that there is the need for effective collaboration among stakeholders to change the youth orientation.

YABATECH Rector, Dr Margaret Ladipo, said vocational training was part of national development strategies in many countries, because of its impact on productivity and economic growth. She emphasised that no nation could grow without well-

equipped technical and vocational institutions to train youths in practical skills that would lead to economic growth.

The Chairman, Organising Committee, Mr Demola Oladipo, said government should take opportunity of the event to increase its investment in technical education.

Highlight of the event included presentation of award and confirmation of Dr Francis Aghedo, Chairman ITOTEC Group of Companies, as fellow of the body.

1,300 teachers inducted at DELSU From Ese Okoduwa DELSU O fewer than 1,300 teachers were inducted last Thursday at the Delta State University (DELSU) in Abraka by Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN).

It was the maiden registration and third induction for graduates of Post-Graduate Diploma in Education (PGDE) and Bachelor’s degree in Education. The ceremony held at the 1,000-capacity lecture theatre.

The Vice-Chancellor, Prof Victor Peretomode, represented by his deputy for Administration, Prof Rose Aziza, congratulated the inductees, praising the TRCN officials for giving licence to the graduates.

The Registrar and Chief Executive Officer of Teachers’ Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN), Prof Mark Wokocha, urged the graduates to always abide by the rules governing the teaching profession in their practice as professional teachers.

Wokocha said the council’s mandate was to promote excellence in education through registration, certification and licensing of teachers.

He disclosed that the TRNC was founded at the University of Ibadan (UI), saying the council had been striving to sustain and promote quality teaching and learning process.

He appealed to the inductees to be faithful, loyal and exhibit true allegiance to the teaching profession in discharging their duties. He also advised them to be honest and give their best in accordance with the provision of the TRCN Act CAP T3 of 2004.

The Dean of Faculty of Education, Prof E.P. Oghuvbu, reminded the inductees of the task ahead of them, advising them to sustain the dignity of the profession.

Some of the inductees, who spoke to CAMPUSLIFE, expressed joy at becoming professional teachers. They said their certificates could make them practise anywhere within the country.

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•Vice-Chancellor (VC), Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) in Ile-Ife, Osun State, Prof Bamitale Omole (third left); Deputy VC, Prof Ayobami Salami (third right); Dean of Students’ Affairs, Prof Latifat Durosinmi (second left); Bursar, Mrs Ronke Akeredelu (left); a Director in VC’s office, Mrs Alaba Kehinde, and Chairman, OAU Committee of Deans, Prof Wasiu Muse, when the management team visited the institution’s new Chancellor and Etsu Nupe, Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar (middle), in Niger State.

Publisher urges students to promote free press

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F media practitioners are protected from censorship and victimisation, the nation’s quest to become a major economic hub would be achieved, Mr Ndama Abubakar, a publisher, has said.

He said there was a linkage between free press and socio-economic growth attained by the developed nations, noting that journalists could only contribute their quota to societal development if they were allowed to discharge their responsibilities with limited restrictions and in accordance to the development

A

LL is set for the University of Lagos (UNILAG) fashion show week aimed at promoting local fashion and dressing styles. The event will hold next Wednesday at Education Glass Hal in Faculty of Education.

According to the coordinator of the event, Julian Kalu, the essence

From Mahmud Abdulsalam FLACLGS media theory as propounded by Dennis McQuail.

Abubakar, who is the Managing Director of Niger Printing and Publishing Company Limited, spoke at the internship orientation for Mass Communication students of Fati Lami Abubakar College for Legal and General Studies (FLACLGS) in Minna, Niger State.

He said gone were the days when Nigerian journalists discharged

their duty without interference from any quarter, noting that media practitioners gallantly played twin roles of being the society’s watchdog and keeping the masses abreast of the goings-on in the country. Today’s journalism practice, he said, leaves much to be desired.

While bemoaning the decadence in the profession, Abubakar said many journalists now collect bribe brazenly to slant their stories according to the dictate of their pay-

UNILAG to hold fashion show From Sampson Unamka AUCHI POLY of the show is to promote the fashion and improve the dress sense of students.

Human Resource Manager of

Caprilibra Global Entertainment, Mr Arab Olakunle, said the event would be a platform for designers to showcase and sell their collection to the participants.

The show will feature activities, including runway, dance, drama

master. In the process, he said, they undermine the ethics of the profession and distort information being passed to the public.

According to Abubakar, journalists who make effort to get useful information are assaulted despite the existence of Freedom of Information (FOI) Act. He advised the students to be focused, while urging them to use print and social media to advocate for press freedom through articles, features and open letters. and comedy, among others. Hiphop sensations, such as Dija, Lil Kesh and Shaydee will add glamour to the event.

The show is sponsored by GQ Nigeria and Caprilibra Global Entertainment, while Zaron Cosmetics, House of Tara, Vogue, H & M and SpiceTV are supporting it.

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CAMPUS LIFE

‘Why education standard is falling’

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•Prof Ogbuvbu (left) presenting the trophy to captain of Physical and Health Education Department’s team.

Dept wins faculty’s soccer contest

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CADEMICS were suspended, last week, at the Faculty of Education of the Delta State University (DELSU) in Abraka as departments under the faculty participated in the Dean’s Cup, a soccer fiesta held to pick the faculty champion.

The contest witnessed a large turnout of students at the Sport Arena of the main campus in each stage of the competition. The departments were divided into groups in the preliminary stages, with successful ones qualifying for the next stage.

The grand finale was played between the departments of Physical

From Ese Okoduwa DELSU and Health Education, and Science Education.

Before the final match started, Dean of the faculty, Prof E.B. Oghuvbu, said the objective of the soccer contest was to develop the soccer talent of the students through extracurricular activities, especially sports. He said he believed the contest would foster friendship among the students, urging them to engage the game with caution and fair play.

At the end of 90 minutes, the de-

partment of Physical and Health Education carried the day, beating its Science Education counterparts by 3:2.

A player of the winning team, Peace Oghenekaro, hailed his colleagues’ enthusiasm towards the match. He expressed joy on the team’s success despite facing challenges at the beginning.

In his vote of thanks, the faculty’s Sport Director, Ovie Sokoh, thanked all the students that participated in the contest, praising the faculty’s management for its support throughout the competition

HE dichotomy between university and polytechnic certificates has given rise to a rush for university education, leaving other higher institutions to be rejected. This, the pioneer Vice-Chancellor (VC) of Tai Solarin University of Education (TASUED), Ijagun in Ogun State, Prof Olukayode Oyesiku said, has led to the continuous fall in standard of education.

Oyesiku, who is the Provost of College of Engineering and Environmental Studies at the Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU) in Ago-Iwoye, expressed the view when he delivered the Fourth TASUED Alumni Distinguished Lecture at the school.

In the lecture titled: Repositioning Nigerian universities: The role of stakeholders, Oyesiku blamed the society for placing emphasis on university education to the detriment of other higher institutions, especially technology-driven schools.

He said the crisis in education could be blamed on poor funding, which, he said, often resulted to strike actions, lack of qualified teachers, brain drain and shortage of teaching facilities.

He urged the government to introduce policies that would end the discrimination against

From Nureni Bakenne TASUED non-university certificates to solve part of the challenges facing the sector.

Th e T A S U E D V C , P r o f Oluyemisi Obilade, hailed the guest lecturer for laying good foundation for the university to thrive. She said her predecessor had continued to play good role towards the development of the school since he left office.

President, TASUED Alumni Association, Mr Saheed Buraimo, said the association has a responsibility to support the management to improve the rating of the university, especially in the area of quality education.

He called on alumni to initiate projects that would develop their alma mater.

Awards were presented to former executive members of the association, including the pioneer president, Mr Tajudeen Uthman and Oyesiku.

Other guests at the event included former member of the National Assembly, Senator Kola Bajomo, a member of Ogun State House of Assembly, Hon. Adebowale Ojuri, and top officials of the school management team.

Faculty honours CAMPUSLIFE reporter From Daniel Akpotaire DELSU

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OR being outstanding in news reporting, Ese Okoduwa, a 400-Level Home Economic Education student and CAMPUSLIFE reporter, has been honoured with the Best Campus Journalist Award by the Nigeria Union of Education Students Association (NUESA), Delta State University (DELSU) chapter.

Ese was honoured at the third induction of the Faculty of Education held last Thursday on the main campus.

While presenting the award, the association’s Staff Adviser, Prof C.N. Ikoji, said the award was to appreciate Ese’s effective reportage of activities in the faculty and on the campus in The Nation. Ikoji said appreciation should be expressed when the individual is alive, thanking Ese for projecting the image of the faculty to the world.

Prof Ikoji also disclosed that CAMPUSLIFE had effectively reported activities of the faculty in the last two years, praising the management of The Nation for the platform.

The NUESA President, Carlos Nwaokobia, said Ese had brought honour to the association, saying: “It beats my imagination when I learnt she is not a Mass Communication student.”

Replying, Ese thanked the faculty and the association for the honour, dedicating the award to her colleague, Philip Okorodudu, and her mother, Mrs Juliana Okoduwa.

•Prof Oyesiku (left) receiving the award from Sen. Bajomo

Lawmaker bemoans students’ involvement in crime

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•Ese displaying the award

HE member representing Ogoja Constituency in the Cross River State House of Assembly, Hon. Peter Odey, has urged students in his constituency to shun cultism and other vices. He stressed that such vices could ruin their future.

He bemoaned increasing involvement of students in crimes, urging attitudinal change among the youth.

Odey, who spoke during a visit by members of Ogoja Students’ Union to his office in Calabar, maintained that it was high time the youth made a re-think and engage in activities that would impact on the society positively.

He advised the students to take their academic pursuits seri-

From Kanjal Godshield CRUTECH ously, insisting that they must read and strive to be better citizens. This, he said, will enable them contribute their quota to the development of Ogoja community.

The lawmaker promised to do his best to reduce the challenges facing the union, promising to donate buses to ease the students’ movement to and from school.

Earlier, leader of the delegation, Justin Elefa, said students would adhere to the advice by the lawmaker, urging the lawmaker to partner with students on the constituency programmes.

THE NATION THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2015

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CAMPUS LIFE Fifty-two graduates of the Department of Radiography and Radiological Science, College of Medical Science, University of Calabar (UNICAL), has been inducted by the Radiographers Registration Board of Nigeria (RRBN).

STANLEY UCHEGBU (Accounting) reports.

lflessness Oath of selflessness

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HE Department of Radiography and Radiological Science in the College of Medical Science of the University of Calabar (UNICAL) was agog last week.

No fewer than 52 graduates of the department were inducted by Radiographers Registration Board of Nigeria (RRBN) into its fold.

The colourful ceremony was held at the Centre for Teaching and Learning Excellence Auditorium of the institution.

The Vice-Chancellor (VC), Prof James Epoke, while declaring the ceremony open, described the graduands as "tear rubbers", urging them not to violate the ethics of the profession. The VC told the inductees to always aspire for knowledge to boost their career.

Noting that Nigeria still lacks required personnel in the profession, Epoke advised the graduands to practise the profession in accordance with the RRBN oath of engagement.

The Provost of College of Medical Science, Prof Maurice Asuquo, said the rigorous academic training received by the inductees would shape their character and journey in the profession.

The provost, represented by Dean, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Prof Victor Ansa, said the students must bring their training and character to bear in the practice.

The Dean of Faculty of Allied Medical Sciences, Prof Francis Useh, noted that the school had graduated more than 1,000 radiographers, imploring the inductees to use their knowledge to improve service delivery in the health sector. He said they must always show attributes of sincer-

•The graduands taking the oath ity, honesty, dedication and selfless to excel in the profession.

While administering the oath on the inductees, the RRBN Acting Registrar, Mr Michael Okpaleke, urged them to effectively use radiographic equipment and techniques for their practice, advising them against unprofessional engagement.

Okpaleke said it was part of the ethics of the profession for practitioners to conduct themselves in professional manner, provide service to humanity, respect patients' rights and show them care irrespective of their conditions.

The Cross River State branch Chairman, Association of Radiographers of Nigeria (ARN), Mr Otu Asinyang, welcomed the inductees into the association, ad-

monishing them to aspire for knowledge.

The Acting Head of Department of Radiography and Radiological Science, Dr Ndubuisi Chiaghanam, congratulated the inductees, saying their licences should be a reminder of the trust reposed in them by the school and the public.

In his lecture titled: Team working in diagnostic imaging, Dr Samuel Inyang, the guest lecturer, emphasised that teamwork was all radiographers to develop the profession. He said the aim to achieve good quality radiographic images could be accomplished if practitioners worked as a team.

Highlights of the event included presentation of prizes to students who distinguished themselves in

the use of equipment for diagnostic radiography, radiography techniques and clinical proficiency.

There was also presentation of Provost Award of Excellence and prize to overall best graduating student.

Mfon Moses Friday received four awards, including Best Graduating Students, Best Student in Equipment for Diagnostic Radiography and in Radiography Techniques and Provost Award for Excellence.

Responding on behalf of the inductees, Mfon described his feat as a product of hard work. He praised the department's staff for devoting their time and energy to give them quality training in medical imaging science. He advised his colleagues to show good attitude to work and render selfless service.

Epoke announced an automatic

employment of Mfon in the Radiography Department as assistant lecturer. The appointment, according to the VC, will take effect after Mfon's internship and National Youth Service.

Speaking with CAMPUSLIFE, one of the inductees, Chukwuemeka Obuegbe, said: "It has been challenging years all through the training. We were taken through rigorous process in basic medical and clinical sciences but I thank God it has ended, having taken the oath of radiography practice. I am indebted to my parents and my lecturers. I promise to uphold the virtues of humanism and care for the wellbeing of patients. I will abide by the oath and ensure that every patient gets good service.”

Their brothers’ keeper National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members in Taraba State have visited the Internally-Displaced Persons (IDPs) camp in Gullup to render free medical service to the victims of Boko Haram insurgency.

PHILIP OKORODUDU (NYSC Jalingo) reports.

G •Bio-data of the IDPs being taken by the Corps members.

•The Corps members diagnosing the children during the event.

ullup, a sleepy village on the fringe of Jalingo, the Taraba State capital, lost its serenity, because of the ongoing war against Boko Haram insurgency. The village has a camp of Internally-Displaced Persons (IDPs), where victims of insurgency have been facing challenges in accessing basic healthcare.

To complement the effort of the government in providing healthcare in the camp, the state directorate of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) collaborated with Medical and Health Community Development Service (CDS) group to offer free medical treatment for the IDPs, last Monday.

NYSC Coordinator, Mr T.K. Freeman, kicked off the event. He was joined by the Zonal Inspector of the scheme in Jalingo, Mr J. Ukpalichi and Jalingo Local Government Area inspector, Mr Shehu Dogo, among others.

The beneficiaries are IDPs from Borno, Yobe and Adamawa states.

The camp, which has hundreds of victims, was established last September as one of the three IDPs camps around the state capital.

The organisers said the free medical mission was informed by increasing unhygienic condition in these camps, noting that there was

need protect children in the camps from possible outbreak of communicable diseases.

Freeman said the NYSC shared in the challenges of the displaced persons, assuring them that the body would not relent in mobilising Corps members to alleviate their plights.

As NYSC attended to the medical needs of the IDPs, Freeman said plans were underway to attend to the educational needs of the children in the camp. He said education of the children remained critical to the rehabilitation programmes of the government.

He urged Corps members in other CDS groups to emulate their counterparts in health CDS to lend support in solving the basic needs of the insurgency victims. Freeman hailed members of the health CDS group for the programme, describing it as life-changing.

President of the CDS group, Williams Adefila, a Medicine and Surgery graduate of the University of Ilorin (UNILORIN), said the objective of the free health mission was to identify with the IDPs and alleviate their plight by providing palliatives to solve their healthcare needs.

•Continued on page 36

THE NATION THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2015

35

CAMPUS LIFE

Between Federal Character and competence D

URING the early days when the Eighth National Assembly’s leadership brouhaha gained presence on the pages of our national dailies and dominated discussions on radio, television and the new media, two fundamental criteria for leadership were placed on the front burner.

Interestingly, in both the apex and lower chambers of the National Assembly, the factors were strongly espoused by the two warring factions.

The legislators’ imbroglio later reached its crescendo, as frontline public affairs analysts, ace columnists and eminent legal luminaries joined the fray by advancing their rational views for or against the criteria.

It was actually a sad commentary to see what began as mere verbal altercation snowballed into a fracas. While the crisis lingered, a friend of mine hilariously told me that even boxing legends, such as Muhammad Ali and Floyd May Wheather, would dread our lawmakers’ ’killer’’ punches. It should be known to our distinguished legislathieves (apologies to Daily Trust’s satirist, Tunde Asaju), that a robust parliamentary business and nothing more, is what we expect from them.

Now, away from the insanity of our law makers. First, the principle of federal character as a constitutional provision is basically concerned with achieving equity and fairness in resource allocation, appointments and sharing other national largesse amongst the regions, geo-political zones or states in our heterogeneous

S

INCE time immemorial, the celebration of birthday brings its own thrills and frills to friends, acquaintances, relatives among other people that form an integral part of the society. To many, it is a period to celebrate their achievements made all year while others see it as a moment to reflect and offer thanks to God for sustaining their life. Thus, it is not unusual to see celebrants and their guests trooping into eateries, amusement parks, exclusive resorts, churches and other places of interests all in a bid to celebrate. However, as casual as the practice may appear, the dimensions birthday celebrations take on campuses are, particularly, disturbing.

I had a remarkable encounter. It was on a weekend when the sun was still blaring in its ferocious rage. I was passing through a major street at Tanke, the large community that hosts the University of Ilorin(UNILORIN) permanent campus. I was going about my own business when I ran into a scene that gave me more than my bargain. A female student was half-naked while about

P

nation. To achieve equity and fairness, the Federal Character Commission was established during the Olusegun Obasanjo administration to, among other things; address the burning issues of marginalisation and inequality. Competence, on the other hand, simply implies the ability to do something well and is acquired through experience or training.

Globally, leadership is one of the most significant elements in social discourse. It remains the only tool which can be used to midwife accelerated progress for a nation, state, region, constituency or business organisation through purposeful individuals. It is not a thing to be abused either, consciously or accidentally. In matters of leadership, it is an aberration to resort to our whims, employ sentiment and play the ethnic or religious card, as it is not an all-comers affair. No doubt, it is imperative to give every zone or region a sense of belonging, so to engender harmonious co-existence amongst its diverse peoples and their culture. Likewise, the need to do that becomes sacred when one looks at the peculiar human and intellectual resources endowed each region. As such, entrusting visionary people from different geo-political zone with leadership tasks can be akin to adding spice to the Nigerian project.

However, there is need for us to perhaps seek the wisdom of Sherlock Holmes or the intelligence of Albert Einstein to objectively answer the following posers. One, do we honestly yearn for national progress? Sec-

ondly, do we recognise those qualities or considerations that will orchestrate unprecedented development for our nation? If truly, our responses are in the affirmative, then we must be wary of the consequences of not acting in good conscience.

One thing is certain, for any meaningful socio-economic progress to accrue to a nation; it needs the intellectual acumen, principle, foresightedness, competence and doggedness of men of impeccable character since these men were elected or appointed based on their pedigree and not on the altar of frivolities. A. N. Whitehead, a British philosopher and mathematician, stated: “Intelligence is quickness to apprehend as distinct from ability, which is capacity to act wisely on the things apprehended.’’

Without mincing word, the thematic preoccupation of Whitehead’s quote is surely on the competency of leaders.

A cursory study of developed nations will unearth the naked reality, that they accorded premium to competence when appointing or electing individuals into offices. For instance, the Singaporeans will eternally remain grateful to their foremost Prime Minister, the late Lee Kuan Yew as his incorruptibility, high sense of probity, patriotism, sagacity and glowing leadership traits that transformed Singapore into a global economic force.

Also, the South Africans would forever be indebted to the revolutionary initiatives of the late Nelson Mandela. After a harrowing expedi-

By Abdulsalam Mahmud tion in jail for 27 years, the late architect of modern South Africa emerged to bequeathe the enduring legacies of rule of law, freedom of speech, credible elections and emancipation of the black race to people of the rainbow nation. Certainly, the principle of federal character or other inconsequential factors were the least in the considerations of electing the legendary Nelson Mandela and Lee Kuan Yew into those exalted positions.

Again, let it be clear that competence or merit in appointments or elections is all about having square pegs in square holes. In other words, men and women of sterling moral and leadership antecedents, track records, courage, intelligence, honesty, and ingenuity should be considered for strategic leadership positions. Insignificant factors such as geographical location, ethnicity, loyalty, religious or party affiliation should be totally rejected. That our nation’s economic fortunes continue to plummet is as a result of our poor sense of judgment while electing or appointing leaders. It would be foolhardy to expect giant strides when mediocre, avaricious, clueless and decadent people continue to remain our best bet, all in the name of inclusiveness.

Also, the outpour of encomiums to our dearest country for successfully conducting a credible election earlier this year was made possible

by the charismatic and exceptionallycompetent Prof Attahiru Jega, who was then the INEC’s helmsman. Even President Buhari cannot deny that his triumph at the March 28 poll was tied to the implicit confidence of the electorate in his leadership abilities.

More recently, I had to doff my hat for Mr President for prioritising merit over trivialities in the appointments he has made so far. In a statement by his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, after the appointment of the new service chiefs, Mallam Garba Shehu quoted Buhari as saying: ‘’All of you, including the national security adviser, were chosen on merit. Your records gave you the job.’’

Hence I want to urge other leaders to replicate the same practice of upholding merit rather than the usual recourse to sentiments and geographical descent as benchmarks for appointing public office holders. .

I believe we have all evaluated the arguments canvassed by both the advocates of federal character and competence in elections or appointments.

And extraordinarily, wearrivedata remarkableconclusionon the contentious issue.

Hence,it would not be rocket science for us to recommend that which will bring about monumental development for our Beloved Motherland.

But, the question is, will our leaders heed the clarion call? Hmmm!

Methinks that’s anybody’s guess.

•Mahmud is a 200-Level Mass Comm., Fati Lami Abubakar College for Legal and General Studies, Niger State.

Abuses of birthday celebrations

By Toyin Ali seven fellow students, including males, were bathing her with muddy water. I became so baffled as to why such a young woman would subjet herself to such untoward ordeal all in the guise of a birthday celebration. While I kept fuming deep within myself over the barbarity, a group of her supposed friends were screaming the traditional happy birthday wishes.

The above episode is just a tip of an iceberg of the many abuses that follow birthday celebrations among students. While being drunk with the euphoria of its celebration, students are being hoodwinked into believing that throwing lavish parties will reinforce their social credibility or make them more popular among their friends. For instance, there happened a time when youthful exuberances occasioned by a birthday celebration led to the death of a final

year student of Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH) in Ogbomoso. He was reported to have engaged in a fight with a hostel guard that led to his death. He allegedly instigated the fight when the guard accused and denied him entry into the hostel at midnight. He was reportedly returning in the midnight after attending a birthday night party. Is this not a hard price for frivolity?

As a matter of fact, the new dimension it now assumed transcends what is expected of any reasonable celebration. The financial net worth of the potential celebrators goes a long way in determining how the bash turns out. This often results in high indulgence in wide-scaled smoking, consumption of alcoholic drinks, and sometimes illicit sexual activities. We have also had many cases of campus birthday celebrations that later ended in commission of varying degree of crime, such as gang rape of unsuspecting female students. In extension, night party,

in general, is a veritable ground for all sort of youth-related violence. Is this not an outward transition from mere fun to criminality?

Let me digress a bit. It is often believed the education of both the mind and body is essential for every youth. However, the storyline is somewhat contrasting as most students cherish ultimately the beautification of the body rather than educating the minds. This is grossly a clear departure from the founding ideologies of our past heroes who used education as a tool to fight against oppression and achieved freedom which we all enjoy today.

Our campuses have been turned into breeding grounds for cultism, indecent dressing among female students, financial shenanigans at the students’ union level, examination malpractices among other vices that keep betraying the values and purpose of education.The situation is really monstrous as it is apparently affecting the employability of the teeming youth population.

The bottom line of the discourse is that immorality is fast gaining consciousness among the youth of today, particularly the students. Taking a critical assessment of the quality of graduates that are being churned out of the institutions, it wouldn’t take a second to conclude that our education system is in the doldrums, and of course the situation needs a special emergency intervention to redeem its lost glory.

In a nutshell, this writer is not out to condemn the celebration of birthday and its associated vanities. This article seeks to put caution on the excesses and the likely consequences its abuse might have on our primary assignment on campus. Therefore, it becomes imperative that an end should be put to all form of youthful exuberances that have hitherto jeopardised the future of many students.

•Toyin is a 400-Level Law student of UNILORIN

How to make UDUS a better campus

RIDE itself as the most peaceful campus in the country, Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto (UDUS), formerly University of Sokoto, is one of the 12 federal universities established in 1975. The varsity took off on a temporary site now called city campus while its permanent site was being developed.

After the campus was moved to its permanent site, the management retained some disciplines, such Veterinary Medicine, Health Sciences and Islamic Studies, among others in city campus. This, in opinion of some people, made the school to lag behind in this era of digitalisation and technologydriven development.

However, there are some ideas that can boost the social and academic growth of school. The aim of the present management is to make the school the best in Nigeria and one of the best in the world.

My rational thinking needs to be reviewed by the management if we

want to see improvement in the university.

Firstly, the staff-student relationship must be rebuilt. It is instructive to note here that there has been no good relationship between students and lecturers. Some lectures are not friendly, because they think students can misuse the opportunity if they allow them to get close.

If there is a good relationship, students will benefit and achieve their academic aims.

Management should also be conscious of the school calendar. Normal period for a session is 34 weeks, but we sometimes have first semester to extend to six to seven months and second semester, four to five months. Management should look into this and make amendment.

What is the state of the school hostel? While the management must be commended for making the school hostels conducive for students, it must be pointed out that more hostels are needed to accommodate more students. The inad-

equate accommodation has led to a phenomenon now known on campus as Moroko, which is slang for squatting. Students must also be made to maintain hygiene in the Halls of Residence.

In 21 Century, technology is playing a key role in the development of higher institutions. To tap the opportunity, the challenges students face in the newly-introduced online registration must be addressed. The problem of registration has subjected students to untold hardship more than when they needed to carry their course forms from one department to another.

The management should review the bottleneck and solve the problem. Also, in this era of Internet, missing grade should have been a thing of the past.

While there are people who claim to be students, it is pertinent to enforce the use of identity cards to identify who is not a student. Management needs to make it compul-

sory for every student to have ID card hung around the neck to avoid embarrassment.

Final year students should also see their results being released on time before they are mobilised for National Youth Service. As it is done in many schools, graduating students should start their exams ahead of their junior colleagues to enable them see their results on time.

The social life on the campus must also be boosted vigorously.

The opinion many people have about UDUS as Islamic school is understandable, because of its location and perhaps, the absence of social events that can build students’ relationship. Let there be more social activities.

On infrastructure, I believe the university road is needed to be made a dual carriage, while there should be provision of concrete walkway on the sides. Old buildings should be renovated. School

By Yasin Olawumi Bus Stop is also needed to be relocated to another location to stop noise in the academic area. The school would witness academic growth if more faculties and laboratories are built.

To boost sport on the campus, a lot of things are needed to be put in place to make way for sport fiesta, such as inter-faculty football contest.

•Continued on page 36

THE NATION THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2015

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CAMPUS LIFE

Abia Corps member wins Bible contest

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CORPS member in Abia State Ayoola Oladejo has emerged the winner of the Bible Society of Nigeria (BSN) Essay Competition held for National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members.

Ayoola beat five other participants in the contest held at the National Institute of International Affairs (NIIA) on Victoria Island, Lagos.

Kinsley Egesi emerged first runner up, while Cyril Nnnadin came third.

The fourth, fifth and sixth positions were won by Ebenezer Mustapha, David Umar and Gbenga Adeoya.

Ayoola, who won an Ipad and books, dedicated the prize to his father, saying he was his inspiration.

He said: “I feel great and happy. I was encouraged by my dad to participate. Midway, I was discouraged. It was frustrating at point but my dad told me not to give up.”

The BSN General Secretary, Reverend Dare Ajiboye, said the contest is held yearly to support nation-building

By Joseph Eshanokpe

initiative of the NYSC, adding that the Society’s patron, Gen. Yakubu Gowon, established the NYSC during his time as Head of State.

On the theme of the essay, National insecurity: Bane of economic growth and development in Nigeria, Rev Ajiboye said it was carefully chosen, because of the security challenge in the country. He said there was need to engage the youth in solving the problem, noting that a medical doctor abandoned his practice in the North and relocated to Abuja to start from the scratch, because of Boko Haram insurgency.

Ajiboye also listed people’s state of mind as another challenge, saying it has led to corruption and other vices.

He urged the government to provide basic amenities to the people, adding that the facilities could act as catalysts for growth of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs).

The Assistant Director for General Duties of NYSC in Ogun State, Mrs Caroline Osoroh, praised BSN for sponsoring the event. She also thanked the stake-

holders, saying the contest had brought out the best in the Corps members.

The event chairman, Dr Nathaniel Danju, called for a review of education curriculum as a panacea to peace, saying schools should accommodate civic education that teaches good morality. He also advised parents to play their in role their children upbringing.

Danju, who is the co-ordinator of Peace and Conflict Studies Programme of the University of Ibadan (UI), described Nigeria’s problems as multifaceted, saying they deserved urgent attention.

He said the government was ill-prepared for some of the problems arising from the Boko Haram insurgency as there were no long-term arrangements.

While he observed that many Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) camps in the North lacked basic amenities and medical personnel to cater for the needs of the victims, he advised the government to release funds to provide basic needs of the victims of insurgency.

How to make UDUS a better campus •Continued from page 35

Having a standard stadium that will have hockey court, volleyball and basketball pitches, table tennis section and lawn tennis yard is not a bad idea.

The yoke of tribalism must be fought on the campus. Some students from the North still believe that they rights to lead students’ bodies and want their colleagues

from the South not to dare contesting against them. We are in school to acquire knowledge, tribal politics should be discouraged in any election being organised by students.

On hostel security, I can confirm that majority of the students unanimously kick against activities of the so-called Yaro boys and girls. Their presence in the hostel has more disadvantages than any benefit stu-

dents may be deriving from it. They must be stopped from coming to hostels, because of security of students.

If the management can meet these conditions, learning would be highly conducive for students and it would improve the academic rating of the university.

•Yasin,300-Level Language, UDUS

English

Posthumous award for ex-UNILAG VC Sofoluwe

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HE University of Lagos (UNILAG) Students’ Union Government (SUG) will hold its maiden personality lecture, where some students will be honoured.

Also, posthumous award will be presented to the family of institution’s former Vice-Chancellor (VC), the late Prof Adetokunbo Sofoluwe.

Chairman of the Organising Committee, Moyosore Adebanjo, said the event would hold on October 2 at the institution’s Multipurpose Hall.

According to him, the event, which is tagged: UNILAG Awards, is being planned by committee composed of students drawn from Akoka and Idi-

From Miftaudeen Raji UNILAG Araba campuses of the school.

Moyosore said the award was introduced to celebrate students and alumni, who have brought honour to the school through their activities.

He highlighted categories of awards to be presented, including leadership, impact, innovation and enhancement, outstanding and social enterprise, Mr and Miss Personality, and Best Online Personality among others.

Moyosore disclosed that the nomination process had started, adding that each awardee must have 25 per cent votes from each faculty. This, he said, is to ensure transparency in the nomination process.

Their brothers’ keeper •Continued from page 34

He said the programme was divided into three phases. The first stage was the collection of bio-data and assessment of blood sugar level and blood pressure. The second stage had the Corps members running test on the IDPs to diagnose ailments, while the last stage involved proscription of drugs based on the ailment discovered.

Williams said those whose conditions warranted immediate medical attention were referred to specialist hospitals for treatment.

Some of the IDPs, who spoke to CAMPUSLIFE, shared various stories of their predicaments. Mr Nkeki Bakar, a native of Chibok in Borno State, said his family members spent more than 11 months in the bush after their house was destroyed by the insurgents.

Bakar, a father of five children, said life had become unbearable for him fair to him since he left Chibok with his family because of the insurgency. He said handouts for his survival and medical needs were being provided by Good Samaritans.

He said Corps members occasionally brought food to them.

More heart-rending is the story of a 13-year-old Tabitha Musa, an orphan from Askira Local Government Area of Adamawa State, who fled her

hometown with her uncle and two siblings. Going back to school, she said, has become difficult for her, because she cannot afford it. She was in Primary 6 before the crisis displaced her family.

The Secretary of the IDPs, Mr Emmanuel Bulus, a native of Gwoza village in Borno State, said the victims have been surviving on goodwill of the Gullup residents since the camp was established last year. He added that some members of the camp engaged in menial labour to fend for their family.

He called for government support and kind-hearted Nigerians to come to their aid, saying some IDPs' health had deteriorated because of malnutrition and diseases.

A member of the CDS Group and a graduate of Nursing Science of the University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT), Tamuna-Belema Dikibo, listed the major health challenges facing the victims in the Gullup camp, saying they lacked personal and environmental hygiene. She said the Corps members advised the IDPs on family planning and need to maintain clean environment.

In his remark, Ukpalichi said rendering of selfless service to the IDPs was in line with the NYSC objectives. He thanked the officials of the camp for their cooperation.

Behold the entrepreneurship champs •Continued from page 31

The community had, at the time, never experienced public power supply in its over 50 years of existence. The project was carried with the support of SAHARA Group, an energy firm.

To sustain the project, the team extended it to neighbouring Kakau community, using kinetic energy of water to generate electricity. The project was discovered to be self-sustaining and environmental-friendly.

The EKSU team innovatively developed an automated and wireless pest control device that emits 23 various sounds audible only to birds.

The technology was developed to address the challenge of bird infestation being faced by rice farmers in Igbemu community of Ekiti State.

The farmers were excited about the technology, which keeps their farms free of bird invasion and saves them 40 to 60 per cent yield that would have been lost. The technology also boosted the profits of the farmers by 60 per cent and encouraged them to cultivate more farmlands.

The UNIAGRIC team designed an environment-friendly generator, with the objective to improve performance of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). The project reduced environmental pollution in Wurukum Market in Benue State, which was caused by the emission of carbon dioxide from fuel generators. The students empowered 11 SMEs, thereby reducing cost of running their business.

At the end of the keen contest, students of KADPOLY emerged winner, while UNIAGRIC team came second and EKSU, third.

The KADPOLY team was presented with a trophy and N500,000 cheque as first prize. It will be competing with 35 other teams from different countries during the global championship.

The Enactus Acting Country chief, Michael Ajayi, said the contest has created a platform for the youth to use their ingenuity to find sustainable business solutions to real problems affecting real people.

He said: “When the students embarked on the projects, they also used the opportunity to develop their leadership skills and entrepreneurial talent. Through Enactus activities in the last 13 years, we have had the opportunity to work with some talented young Nigerians, who have dared to create change in their communities.”

The event was supported by the vision of some corporate organisations, including Sahara Group, U.S. Embassy and KPMG.

THE NATION THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2015

37

EDUCATION

Abducted UAM lecturer escapes

EKSU FILE

Provost for College of Medicine THE new Provost of the College of Medicine, Ekiti State University (EKSU), Prof Kehinde Oluwadiya, and other members, of staff of the college, have been told to work harder than before to sustain the good reputation of the college.

Vice-Chancellor EKSU Prof Patrick Oladipo Aina, gave the charge during the Academic Staff Assembly (ASA) of the college of Medicine where Oluwadiya was elected as the new Provost on Thursday, August 6.

"The stage you are is critical, with the recent accreditation of the college, you have to work harder than before," the ViceChancellor admonished.

Aina congratulated Oluwadiya, who emerged with 53 votes unopposed,urging him to carry his colleagues along, and build on the achievements of his predecessors.

Oluwadiya promised to explore the possibilities of leveraging the professional expertise of staff in all spheres. He also vowed to improve the finances of the college.

The Registrar of EKSU, Mr Emmanuel Ogunyemi, moderated the election, which was attended by all principal officers of the institution.

Google hands over wireless to varsity GOOGLE Africa has handed over a campus wide broadband wireless cloud Infrastructure with fibre optics backbone deployed to EKSU. The event held at a ceremony in the vice-chancellor's office.

The Vice Chancellor Prof.

Oladipo Aina, who praised the technical experts from Google Africa for their professionalism and dedication to work for the past two years, said his vision is to make EKSU a first class institution.

This, he said, has been achieved by the collaboration with Google Africa incorporated.

Aina said his administration has transformed ICT Infrastructure in EKSU which enabled the university conduct the last computer-based Post-Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) test for candidates seeking admission into the university within a week.

He thanked the leader from Google, Mr Bayo Olotu, who supervised the two-year work for his inspiration and energy.

D

R. Joseph Orsar of the University of Agriculture, Makurdi (UAM) who was abducted by unknown gunmen on Friday, last week, has escaped.

Sources informed The Nation that Orsar, who teaches in the Department of Wild Life and Range Management of UAM, managed to escape while his family members were busy making arrangement on how to source for the N30 million ransom earlier demanded by his abductors before he could be released.

Orsar was said to have run into Gbagyo village in Guma local Government where the Kindred

From Uja Emmanuel, Makurdi

Head of Nnanev, Zaki Orkpe Gbagyo later got in contact with one Dr. J. K. Ikya of UAM's Department of Food Science and Technology.

It would be recalled that Orsar's abduction which occurred around 5pm at his Federal Housing Estate home in North Bank, Makurdi house last Friday, provoked an outcry by both workers and residents in the area.

Chairperson of Academic Staff Union of Universities-UAM, Dr. Bemgba Anjembe, said Dr. Ikya subsequently got across to UAM

Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Emmanuel Kutcha, who arranged for security men that eventually rescued Orsar from the Village.

"As a union, we wish to state that the act of kidnapping, demanding or ransom and ransom taking is condemnable and we are asking the security agencies to investigate the circumstances surrounding the abduction of our colleague."

Anjembe, who noted that though Orsar had earlier been suspended from the union for anti-union activities, added that ASUU was empathising with him based on the union's principle to defend the rights and legitimate aspirations of all citizens of this country.

He stressed that before now, UAM had

been peaceful with no incidence of abduction He prayed there would never be a reoccurrence of such incidence again, urging his members to be security conscious at all times.

Anjembe said: "I wish to express gratitude to the Gbagyo community as led by Zaki Orkpe Gbagyo for coming to the aid of our colleague as we await the outcome of investigation on the matter. I encourage our members to be security alert at all times."

The state Deputy Police Public Relations Officer (DPPRO), ASP Matthew Oku, confirmed the report and his rescue, adding that investigation was still ongoing on the matter.

Fellowship holds Silver Jubilee From Odunayo Ogunmola, Ado Ekiti

I

T promises to be a great reunion for the senior friends of the Gospel Students' Fellowship (GSF), Federal Polytechnic, Ado Ekiti Chapter as the body marks its 25th anniversary this week.

The programme is expected to be attended by executives, workers and members who passed through GSF, Ado Ekiti Federal Polytechnic Chapter from 1990 till date.

The reunion, which has as its theme: 'A great achievement’ commences tomorrow and ends on Sunday at GSF auditorium, Aba Erifun, Ado Ekiti.

According to the spokesman of the Federal Poly, Ado Ekiti GSF alumni, Akinkunmi Abimbola, the threeday event would feature inauguration of alumni executives, seminars, and teachings, among others.

He said the event would afford members the opportunity of interacting and worshipping together again after years of graduation.

"We want our senior friends who had passed through this fellowship and graduated from this great polytechnic to come back home and visit their source," Abimbola said.

Clerics expected to minister at the programme include Pastor Richard Ologbonyo, Evangelist Kunle Orimogunje, Pastor Olajide Anthony, Pastor Ayo Ojo, Pastor Akindubi Johnson and other anointed clerics.

•Pioneer Dean, School of Media and Communications Pan Atlantic University, Prof Emevwe Biakolo (left), presenting an award to Anambra State Governor Willie Obiano, at the 8th distinguished guest lecture series in the Honeywell Group auditorium of the school.

PHOTO: OLUWATOYIN ADELEYE

•Students of Federal College of Animal Health and Production Technology, Moor Plantation, Ibadan, Oyo State protesting in front of the institutuion on the Abeokuta Express Way, Ibadan.

PHOTO: FEMI ILESANMI

Push for technical vocational training in schools F

ORMER Provost, Federal College of Education (Special) Oyo, Prof Taoheed Adedoja, has advocated a review of the National Policy on Education to promote skill acquisition and address the growing unemployment among youths in the country.

Adedoja said the need for the review became imperative in view of the global economic reality.

Adedoja, a former minister of sports, made the call in Ibadan while answering questions from reporters on the state of the nation's education sector.

Adedoja said: "Education is very important for the development of any country. But for countries that have shown signs of economic development they have given priority to the acquisition of skills inherent in vocational and technical education for which we have neglected in this country.

He continued: "Our technical schools are virtually empty; and our vocational system has been ne-

From Oseheye Okwuofu, Ibadan

glected. We have given priority to university education at the detriment of vocational and technical education that are key to entrepreneurship. Nigeria's economic potentials can only be achieved if we give technical education the priority it deserves. Ghana, for example, is a country rated high today in terms of waking up economically, and it has started to give priority to technical and vocational education not even at the university, but secondary and polytechnic levels.

"Before you are certified to have completed secondary education in Ghana, 30 per cent of subject offered must be at least vocational. But in Nigeria today, we have given priority to other subjects.

Adedoja, who is the ProChancellor and Chairman of the

Governing Council, Federal University, Dutse, Jigawa,t described NPE as archaic with the current global economic reality.

He lamented that the National Policy on Education in Nigeria which was promulgated in 1977 "has not been reviewed up till today" He argued that it s not only JAMB that requires review as being demanded in some quarters, stressing that all sectors of the educational system in Nigeria needs a reappraisal.

Adedoja condemned the negative attitude of most Nigerians to vocational and technical education.

He said: "The countries that can be considered developed technologically and scientifically are countries that give priority to their vocational and technical education.

"We have in this country neglected technical and vocational education that would make us reach those countries that are developed today.

Our schools' curricula need urgent review in this direction," he stressed.

• From left: Assistant Director National Youth Service Corps Ogun State Mrs Caroline Osoroh; General Secretary (GS), Bible Society of Nigeria (BSN), Rev Dare Ajiboye; 1st prize winner Mr. Oladejo Abayomi Ayoola; 2nd winerMr. Egezi Kingsley Enyinna; 3rd winner, Mr. Nnamadim Cyril Uchenna; National President, BSN, Dr. Aaron Nuhu and former GS, BSN,Dr. Fred Odutola, at the 4th NYSC essay competition, on: ‘National insecurity, bane of economic growth and development in Nigeria’ organised by BSN in Lagos.

THE NATION THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2015

38

CAMPUS LIFE SCHOLARSHIPS

AAUA FILE 17,000 jostle for 4,000 spaces NO fewer than 17, 904 candidates, who registered for the 2015/2016 post-Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA) Ondo State, are jostling for 4,000 available spaces in the institution. The Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academics), Prof Oluyemisi Adebowale, made this known at a briefing.

Adebowale said: "Over 22,000 candidates picked AAUA through JAMB, and 17, 904 candidates qualified for the post-UTME, but we are going to admit below 4,000."

The post-UTME, which is a computer-based test, held on Monday and Tuesday last week.

Adebowale, who said AAUA's extant merit-driven admission policy subsists, warned candidates to be wary of impostors who might want to extort money and other valuables from them as inducements for admission.

Unions not proscribed THE Vice Chancellor AAUA Prof.

Igbekele Ajibefun, said the institution’s five staff unions are not proscribed.There has been a lull in the activities of the staff unions after the industrial action embarked upon by workers three years ago.

Ajibefun said: "I have not seen any document that says there should be no SSANU, NASU and NAAT. Nobody has asked them not to operate. I think those unions went on hibernation on their own. However, I share the thought of members of the unions that it is better not to have something on ground now than to have something that will put them in more problems.

"Responsible unionism is an important issue to every tertiary institution in Nigeria. As management, we will want to promote responsible unionism. When we see a union that is responsible, we will support it. When they have people that can lead them well, we will give them support and whatever we can do to make them come back to life, we will do that.

What is needed is responsible leadership."

APPROACHING DEADLINE ICFOnest+ Postdoctoral Program (COFUND): International Fellowships in Spain, 2015 APPLICATIONS are invited for postdoctoral fellowships available for foreign nationals. The ICFOnest+ Postdoctoral Fellows will be hired by ICFO on a standard employment contract of 24-month duration to perform his/her duties within an existing ICFO research group. Salary and economic conditions are aligned with standard European Marie Curie programs (gross salary in the range 40,000 EUR / 55,000 USD).

Study Subject(s): Fellowships are

awarded for research projects at the forefront of science and technology.

Research lines at ICFO include but are not limited to: biomedical optics and biophotonics, nanoscopy and superresolution imaging, nanotechnology and nanophotonics, nonlinear optics and atom optics, quantum optics and quantum information, atto-science and ultrafast physics, optical sensing and optoelectronics, green technologies and photovoltaics, graphene physics and nanomaterials, single-molecule physics, ultracold quantum matter physics and advanced laser technology.

Course Level: Fellowships are available for postdoctoral research programme.

Scholarship can be taken at: Spain Eligibility: -Have not spent more than 12 months of the prior 24 months in Spain, and not be Spanish citizens/ residents. Spanish citizens may apply however if they spent at least 3 years immediately prior the application deadline in a country other than Spain.

•Be in possession of a PhD degree at the time of the application cut-offpoint.

•Have not been awarded the PhD degree more than 5 years prior to the application deadline. Exceptions are made for documented periods of parental leave. Women may claim up to 12 months for child, for a maximum of 3 years.

•Be first author in at least one

publication (either submitted, accepted, in print or published).

Copies may be requested.

•Provide complete documentation requested for application.

•Exceptions to the PhD degree requirements will be made for women with children and other documented career breaks. Persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply. No restrictions of citizenship or gender apply to the ICFOnest+ Postdoctoral Program.

ICFO offers up to 25 incoming postdoctoral fellowships.

Fellowships are available for the duration of 24 months.

Continued on next edition

Key into Buhari’s anti-corruption crusade, NBTE urges T

HE Executive Secretary, National Board for Technical Education, Dr Maz’uid Kazaure, has urged rectors of polytechnics and monotechnics to key into the anti-corruption crusade of the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari.

According to the NBTE chief, it has become imperative for drivers of tertiary institutions to be committed to their constitutional roles and support the Buhari government to nip corruption in the bud.

Kazaure, who gave the charge while delivering a keynote address at the workshop on academic integrity in polytechnics and monotechnics, organised by the Anti-Corruption Academy of Nigeria in Abuja, described the Institute of Management and Technology, (IMT) Enugu, as one of the best in the country having overcome the challenge it faced few years ago.

According to Kazaure, the entry and exit points of IMT had to be

shut with the support of Joint Admissions Matriculation Board (JAMB), National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) and Industrial Training Fund (ITF) due to irregularities in its admission and graduation methods.

“We discovered that there were no clear records on the number of students admitted into the institute for some period of time. This also showed in the number of students graduating as well because we know the carrying capacity of the institute. So, we decided to look at what the law says regarding our regulatory duty. We got the stakeholders involved and closed the entry and exits points.

“However, the governor of Enugu State quickly intervened and a new management team was set up for the institution and within a given period, those key issues were

‘I want to state here that the NBTE has been partnering with both the EFCC and the ICPC in the areas fighting financial and non financial corruption within the polytechnic system and inculcating change in our value systems’

addressed and today in terms of integrity and academic excellence, IMT Enugu is one of the best,” Kazaure added.

He promised that NBTE would not rest on its oars in ensuring integrity and academic excellence in the institutions under its purview.

He noted that the body had commenced a clampdown on unapproved institutions in the country.

He said the increase of unapproved campuses and courses have thrown more challenges on the integrity of programmes and graduates from such institutions.

The development, Kazaure noted, has inspired NBTE to partner with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, and Independent Corrupt Practice Commission to ensure sanity in the system.

“I want to state here that the NBTE has been partnering with both the EFCC and the ICPC in fighting financial and non financial corruption within the polytechnic system and inculcating change in our value systems.

“To this end, interactive fora were held with the EFCC for rectors of polytechnics and provost of specialised institutions as well as senior members of staff of NBTE.

Also, the board, in collaboration with the EFCC and ICPC, has begun monitoring of activities of Anti Corruption and Transparency Unit (ACTU) in federal polytechnics to ensure that they comply with the standing order for the operation of ACTU’s enacted by the ICPC, “ Kazaure said.

Registrar, JAMB, Prof Dibu Ojerinde exonerated the board over failure of students to secure admission into their choice institutions even when they passed the examinations.

Ojerinde said the redistribution of students into some institutions other than their first or second choices were done in good faith, adding that whatever lapses that occurred in the process could be addressed as they were not deliberate.

According to Ojerinde, what JAMB was doing to correct the anomaly was to redistribute such students to other institutions so that the students do not wait for nothing.

He said JAMB was also taking drastic measures over complaints that some scorers of 296 marks were being relegated while those who scored 180 were being admitted in some institutions. He argued that the issue of academic integrity should begin from what happened at the entry points.

Reinstated Plateau varsity VC vows to rebrand school

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•Dr Akinkurolere (middle), Mr Ogunshipe, Mr Adebiyi, Mr Nurudeen, Registrar OGITECH Mr Olugbenga Adeniyi, Mr Adedapo, and other members of the association during the inauguration.

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HE Ogun State Institue of Technolgy (OGITECH), Igbesa, has inaugurated the Senior Staff Association of Nigeria Polytechnic (SSANIP) chapter.

Also, the first SSANIP executive, of the chapter took their oath of office under the supervision of the union Zonal Coordinator and Secretary, Mr Adebanjo Ogunshipe and Mr Adeyemi Adebbiyi.

Rector of the Institute, Dr Olufunke Akinkurolere, admonished them not to use the union to foment trouble. She urged them to priortise their employment

HE reinstated Vice-Chancellor of Plateau State University Bokkos Prof Danjuma Sheni, has said he will reposition the institution to enable it achieve academic excellence.

He made the pledge when he was welcomed to his office by some of the students.

Sheni was sacked last year by former Plateau governor Jonah Jang after only two years in office.

But Jang's successor Governor Simon Lalong, reinstated Sheni to enable the state-owned university achieve stability and academic success.

"The task given to me by Governor Lalong was to make sure the school achieves academic

OGITECH inaugurates SSANIP

By Aderenike Gbadebo

at OGITECH. Akinkurolere, an engineer, appealed to the new association to foster a mutual relationship with other unions in the school to move the institution forward.

She promised to accord equal representation to all associations without bias.

She reminded the executive members to consult their members before any decision is taken on things

that will benefit the union and the school.

Akinkurolere urged them to abide by the rules and regulations guiding the institute, warning that management would not tolerate any act of indiscipline.

Adebiyi advised the new executive to engage in a meaningful and constructive dialogue with management on issues bordering the union.

Chairman of the SSANIP OGITECH chapter, Mr Fatai

Nurudeen, promised to collaborate with other unions to uplift the standard of the school.

The new elected officers are: Chairman, Mr Nurudeen; Mr Adedapo Adedotun, (Vice Chairman); Lawal Adebiyi (Secretary); Ifatumo Olubukola, (Assistant Generals Secretary) Oamen Cecilia, (Treasurer), Mrs ledina Alkabel (Public Relations Officer), and Mrs Yusuf Muyibat (Financial Secretary).

From Yusufu Aminu Idegu, Jos

excellence; hence, I'm going to initiate academic programmes to enable us achieve that set goal," Sheni said.

The university has since graduated two sets of finalists but the graduates have not yet been mobilised for the National Youth SDervice Corps due to the non-accreditation of their courses by the Nationa Universities Commission Sheni while addressing a briefing in his office at the school campus, expressed appreciation to Lalong for his love for the progress of the institution.

He said: "As part of actions to reposition the institution, I will be conducting an audit of various section of the university to build confidence in citizens of Plateau and Nigerians which will address all contending issues facing the institution."

He constituted four committees - audit, finance and contract, security and academic.

Sheni also suspended payment to contractors, as well as salaries to new staff employed during Jang’s administration.

Similarly, Sheni reinstated all deans and coordinators he appointed as at last September, asking them to resume at their various duty posts with immediate effect.

THE NATION THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2015

39

EDUCATION

UNILAG alumnus wins Harvard 7Up scholarship

B

ANKOLE Rasheed Makanju may be the fifth recipient of the 7Up Harvard Business School scholarship since it was introduced in 2009. However, Bankole’s victory represents hope for public school education in the country.

Makanju is the first graduate of a public institution to get the scholarship.

Applicants for the scholarship have to be accepted into Harvard Business School (HBS) before applying.

Previous recipients have been young Nigerians who had their first degrees abroad.

However, Makanju is a 2010 Electrical/Electronics Engineering graduate of the University of Lagos (UNILAG). He also attended King’s College, Lagos for his secondary education.

At the scholarship unveiling last Thursday at the Afe Babalola Auditorium, University of Lagos, Marketing Manager for Seven-Up Bottling Company, Mr Norden Thurston described the 28-year-old’s admission into HBS as a rare feat.

“To go to school in Nigeria and graduate in Nigeria and be accepted

•From left: Brand Manager, Mr. Segun Ogunleye; Head of Marketing, Mr Thurston, Makanju and Mr Adesina, at the unveiling.

By Kofoworola Belo-Osagie

into Harvard Business School is difficult. He is the first Nigerian to study from a public university to win this scholarship,” he said.

But that was not all that made Makanju win the scholarship.

Thurston added that the young man

I want to help build great Nigerian brands; build big Nigerian businesses; build something that Nigerians can travel and be proud of as truly Nigerian

Academy fast-tracks placement of students abroad

T

OPFAITH Academy of Arts and Sciences(TAAS) in Mkpatak, Akwa Ibom State, has reiterated its commitment to uphold integrity and reputation as an institution that continually delivers quality results for its students.

The Chairman, Board of Governors of the school Dr Emmanuel Abraham, spoke during the school’s one-year international programmes for students, including others pursuing the two-year Cambridge A-Level course.

According to him, the event, which was held at its campus in Essien Udim Local Government, was to ensure that students were placed in various leading universities of their choice abroad.

The one-year fast-track international programmes of the academy include the International University Foundation Programmes (IUFP) and International Degree Foundation Programme (IDFP).

These programmes qualify students for direct admittance into leading universities overseas for a wide range of over 70 arts, technology and science-based courses covering Management Studies, Medicine, Engineering, Computer/Information and Communications Technology, Aeronautic Technology, and Law. Others are: Psychology, Accounting, Journalism/Media, International Relations/Development, Political Science, Theatre Arts, Tourism/Hospitality Management, and Criminology.

Students under IDFP programme have the advantage of progressing to reputable affiliate universities and institutions abroad on completion of their courses at TAAS, Abraham said.

Similarly, the two-year Cambridge A-Level programme provides dual gateway to study abroad or in Nigeria.

It confers on candidates the freedom to choose whether to study locally or overseas.

Dr Abraham attributed the qual-

was the one candidate, who demonstrated a passion to return after his studies to make an impact in Nigeria. Rather than describe the country’s problems in his application, he said Makanju made assessors to see possibilities.

Makanju said the application process for HBS was challenging but

By Aderenike Gbadebo

ity and reliability of Topfaith programmes to its competent staff, driven by the institution's score value of excellence and backed by extensive academic infrastructure provided at its serene, ultra-modern campus complex.

He admonished students in the Southsouth and Southeast to enrol at the academy for its 2015/ 2016 session billed to begin next month. Intending candidates would write an aptitude test scheduled for Saturday, August 29, Dr Abraham added.

Programmes Coordinator of the academy Mr. Moses Udoudo, urged interested applicants to visit the school website for registration.

He stressed that the programmes is a means by which the school attracts academic opportunities at global dimension closer to students and parents.

At the briefing were the institution's Academics/Records sSupervisor, Mr. Ututofon Ekop.

HE Medical Director Maciland Medical Centre Ipaja Lagos, Dr Funmi Durojaiye, has advised youths and teenagers to apply their intellect positively to avoid the danger of being mentally challenged in future.

He said negative behavoural tendencies, such as fighting and bullying among teenagers gradually begin as a form of stress, but later graduate into emotional distress, a medical condition which according to her, is a precursor to mental disorder in future.

Durojaiye said 50 per cent of mental problems started from the teenage years, owing to inability of the society or the affected individual to identify these tendencies on time.

“Children, who fight and abuse a lot have an emotional disorder called stress which must not be allowed to graduate into distress. Fifty cases of mental problem we have today have its root from 14 years old. The affected persons had what is known as Emotional Stress, but left it untreated till it graduated into Emotional Distress,” she said.

Durojaiye spoke at the Nation’s Builders Conference, organised by Divine Destiny Foundation, a nongovernment organisation in Lagos.

Nations Builders conference is a yearly event aimed at marking the International Youth Day.

T

that he did all he could to prepare for it. He described himself as being fortunate to have gotten the scholarship.

He also told The Nation that his education was good enough to provide the foundation he needed to excel in the world of work.

Makanju hinged his reason for applying to HBS on his desire to learn how to build internationallyrecognised Nigerian business brands.

“I want to help build great Nigerian brands; build big Nigerian businesses; build something that Nigerians can travel and be proud

of as truly Nigerian; just help set up Nigeria as a place where you can actually grow a business and take over the world and serve the rest of Africa,” he said.

Seven-Up General Manager, Human Resources, Mr Yinka Adesina, said the scholarship initiative is the firm’s way of grooming great leaders for Nigeria and that recipients are under no obligation to work for the organisation after their studies.

He said the unveiling of the 2015 recipient was brought to UNILAG to inspire secondary school pupils, undergraduates, and corps members present to prepare for their own great futures.

He urged them to take the guest speaker, Lanre Olushola’s talk about leadership as their own take home from the programme.

Olushola, author of The Money Book, said he was both an alumnus of UNILAG and HBS. Underscoring the importance of Seven-Up Scholarship initiative, he added that attending HBS changed his life.

“When I attended HBS in 2007, my life changed; my business went to another level. We need to celebrate SevenUp for this initiative,” he said.

Addressing the topic: ‘15 Steps to Successful Leadership’, Olushola told the youth that to become extra ordinary leaders, they need to work on their character, build their competence and capacity.

To do this, he said they should have the right vision; synchronise and align it with their core values; have positive mental attitudes; act on time; possess sound judgment; and be flexible.

‘50% of mental ill-health starts from teenage years’

By Mojisola Clement

Durojaiye, who spoke on: ‘Teens and mental health’ explained that mental health could either be spiritual or physical, adding that both must be balanced to complement stable psychological health.

She said brains are created by God to improve the society and not to destroy it. She added that God has created mankind to solve problems on earth; the more reason why man would not be a liability to parents, communities and the society at large.

Durojaiye explained that this social menace can be corrected if teenagers could study and meditate more on good books, have good companions, and put their brains to good task.

A lawyer, Olusegun Mohammed, who spoke on Child Right Act of 2003, said the Act was designed to further protect children beyond the fundamental human rights. He said all children are entitled to a meaningful name, rights to free and compulsory basic education, and rights to survival, amongst others.

Other speakers include: Mr Bayo

Osilesi, Mrs Funmi Osilesi and Mrs Funmi Onuoha.

Some of the schools at the event were: Gunoka International School, Do-Est-Dot School, Rays of Hope International School, and Intellect Companion Classic College - all in Ipaja.

Abegunde Collins, a male delegate and a JSS3 pupil of Intellect Companion Classic College, said he had learned to be a nation builder.

“I have been enlightened on how to use the knowledge I acquire positively for the good of the society which is the reason why I am part of the nation builders of my generation.”

Another female delegate, Boluwatife Kolawole, an SS1 pupil of Do-Est-Dot Secondary School, Ipaja, said she has learnt more about her rights as a child and therefor can neither be abused, nor allow any other child to be abused because she is now wiser.

“I am a certified child rights activist, who will kick against any form of abuse on my path or on the path of my peers,” she said.

•Pupils of the Apostolic Faith Secondary School, (AFSS), in a group photograph Lagos, as they await their flights to the United Kingdom (UK)at the Departure Lounge of Murtala Muhammed International Airport.

THE NATION THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2015

40

EDUCATION The Director, Centre for Project Development and Revenue Generation, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike (MOUAU), Prof. Nnamdi Mbanefo Anigbogu in this interview with EMMANUEL HANONU and JENNIFER UME, praises spate of development in the institution and denies allegations against the Vice-Chancellor Prof. Hillary Odo Edeoga.

‘MOUAU VC has performed well’

W

HAT is your take on Prof. Hillary’s administration?

Note that, if one is to talk of Prof.

Edeoga’s performance in MOUAU, it will be incomplete without the inclusion of the ProChancellor Prof. Anya O. Anya and the entire members of the Governing Council. MOUAU was a rot before they came on board but they, in totality, have created a new, peaceful, and decent atmosphere in the system.

You mentioned ‘rot in the system’. Could you please clarify?

It will interest you to note that moral and ethical standard was not in place before now.

There were some who made themselves Mafia and high-jacked the office of the Vice Chancellor for a long time now. They had great influence in the mismanagement of the system before Prof. Anya and Prof. Edeoga came. These cabals have been recycling themselves from one administration to the other. But when they were sidelined to pave the way for younger and more responsible workers, they started fighting and concocting lies against the administration.

I see where such a thing is allowed to flourish as an abuse in the academia.

It was alleged that some students paid N60,800 for hostel accommodation but were neither allotted a space nor refunded their money.

I am in this system, and a member of Senate.

I am also the Director of the Centre for Project Development and Revenue Development. If there was any mistake, all of us in MOUAU are to be blamed. There is a laid down rule guiding universities. Also, it is the Senate that makes the law and deliberates on other matters of the university as the case may be. I’m aware that when the hostel was completed, N60,800 was fixed. There was a rush by students to pay, but it was strictly based on first-come-first-serve for both new as well the old students to ward off favouritism.

The over payment was due to exploitation by unscrupulous landlords in the host community, in addition to insecurity on the students living off-campus. The hostel allocation was not on man-knows-man basis, or being influenced by any person. There was a rush because of the vices being encountered by students outside campus. It will interest you to note that, two of my relations were also involved; 10 of my friends wards were involved; because I encouraged them to pay. At present, many hostels are being built by the university and not by Prof.

Edeoga or Prof. Anya; and others are completed at the moment, and are about to be inaugurated. Therefore, the problem of hostel accommodation will soon be a thing of the past. You have gone round to see things for yourself, and

compare what is now on ground to what were previously there.

What is your assessment of Prof Edeoga?

It is to the credit of the Vice-Chancellor and the MOUAU Governing Council that, the student registration/enrolment came up from below 2000 to about 7000. This shows that, more students were given opportunities to study in this part of Nigeria as well as in the fields the students and their parents are much interested in. Note that more programmes are now being accredited more than before which also compelled more students to apply.

Could you shed light on how MOUAU allegedly lost 12 accredited courses?

Truth is, there was no foundation on the ground for MOUAU to take off or stand. This was an institution without enough lecturers and a very poor enrolment mostly from the presciences and those of awaiting results. This is where most of the post graduate programmes were not mounted simply because there were no qualified lecturers to teach them? What are the factors for such accreditation as of that time?

As any of them, I was teaching undergraduate students almost four or six courses in a semester.

But today, MOUAU is better in infrastructure, faculty staff, good programmes, and better environment both for the students and workers with abundant grants for researches, conferences, and executions.

It might interest you to know that MOUAU is offering Medicinal Science programmes, to produce quality medical staff, including doctors.

The name Agricultural University is just there.

We are in the rural setting with farmers and rural communities to know the type of diseases, their causes, contamination from chemical that leads to diseases and illness; and from such developments could train the health personnel for efficient performance. That’s why MOUAU is going into Human Medicine.

Could you tell us a few of the programmes now accredited?

The Mathematical Department, College of Veterinary Medicine and its component departments and others are among those with full accreditation. In the history of MOUAU, this college and many departments have never been

• Prof Anigbogu

• Prof Edeoga

accredited. It is on record that College of Veterinary Medicine just took their first board examination which has been denied them since the onset of that college. It is also noteworthy that students passed the said examination. Prof. Edeoga neither established the College of Management Sciences (COLMAS), nor had anything to do with the National Universities Commission’s refusal to mobilise MOUAU students for the National Youth Service Corps; yet he got the approval for these students to go for the service.

Does the increase in the student’s population have any negative effect on MOUAU? No! Rather, it created employment and rapid development in MOUAU and its catchment area.

It also helps to reduce many selfish behaviours among our youths, such as prostitutions, arm robbery, kidnapping and many other vices. It will interest you to note that, students from United States is registered in MOUAU to do his/their Master(s) and PhD programmes. Do we only accredit this to Prof. Anya and Prof.

Edeoga alone? The best MOUAU could boast of was the coming of the Niger/Chadian students on exchange programme from the Nigerian government in 1994, and that’s all. But today, it is different.

Also note that the likes of my Vice-Chancellor attracted men like Prof. M. A. Bamgbose of the Federal University of Abeokuta, who came to do his sabbatical and contributed among the changes we are observing on the university; others were Prof. G. C. Okeke of the University of Nigeria Nssuka, and others.

It is also alleged that Prof Edeoga manipulates the affairs of the university?

How on earth could he do that and the Council and Senate kept mute? This will show you the hopelessness of certain disgruntled enemies who are indirectly calling the Council and Senators fools by all indications.

Is it true that Edeoga was dismissed over fraud by former governor Sullivan Chime?

I have not heard that before!If such news was right, why didn’t the university know about it before now? The Enugu State government and the State Security Services should have informed MOUAU and the Federal Government over that. The seat of the Vice Chancellor is

very hot and sensitive. It needed clearance before an appointment is made. If this information is correct, Prof. Edeoga should have left the seat before now.

We also heard that MOUAU rating has crashed from second position in 2003 to 86th in the National Universities Commission’s (NUC’s) ranking?

(Laughs) When was MOUAU established, and what were the infrastructure on ground to warrant this merits? Will the Vice Chancellor in the year 2003 that this was claimed, allowed such false information to be credited to him?

The institution on which MOUAU started from was a training station of the National Root Crop Research Institution, Umudike, which was just trying to get itself out of the shock of the civil war. How could such a thing be real? For MOUAU to be the best among the first, second and even the third generation universities in Nigeria, and to clinch second position against the Universities such as Nssuka, Benin, Lagos, Calabar, Jos, Ahmadu Bello, Bayero, Port Harcourt, FUTO, FUTA, Sokoto and a lot of others, just to mention but a few. You can down see that the men and women of the National Ambassador are just fooling themselves. They should provide the person that gave that information to them, if any? Do you still see why it is too worrisome to conclude that the body is Essau’s while the voice is basically Jacob’s. I still stand on my observation that, it is only in The National Ambassador that the hen becomes pregnant, while the cock lays egg and the hen crows. It is there that one can see the world full on the impossibilities. That is why the totality in the management of the Ambassador needed overhauling.

How true is the rumour that your Vice Chancellor threatened to arrest parents of the demobilised NYSC students that approached him?

Who owns the university? Without students, their sponsors, and lecturers, there will be no MOUAU. Why on earth will the Vice Chancellor react in such an unfriendly way? As far as I know Prof. Edeoga, he is a father of all. He loves both students and staff. Have you heard of any staff or students’ demonstration of any kind since he came on board? Why all these fabricated story. Who is fooling who?

Does Edeoga have the right to employ workers without due process?

What is the function of the Governing Council if the Vice Chancellor does their functions?

Universities are not military outfit; the Vice Chancellor has no such powers or orders to overrule the Governing Council or the university Senate. Hope my points are very clear?

‘It will interest you to note that moral and ethical standard was not in place before now. There were some who made themselves Mafia and high-jacked the office of the Vice Chancellor for a long time now. They had great influence in the mismanagement of the system’

Elizade founder defends JAMB’s admission policy HE Founder of Elizade University, Ilara-Mokin, Ondo State, Chief Michael Ade-Ojo, has commended the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) for coming up with a new admission policy for the 2015/2016 admission year.

Chief Ade-Ojo noted that the yearly geometric increase in the number of admission seekers into universities justifies the action of the board. With the new policy, Ade-Ojo said, JAMB is now capable of proffering solution to admission problem faced by over 70 per cent of applicants yearly.

He condemned the allegation from some quarters that private universities bribed JAMB to evolve the new policy.

Chief Ade-Ojo said the problem of low enrolment of students was not peculiar to private universities alone as there are some government-owned institutions that also face the same problem.

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He argued that some public universities also got from the candidates that JAMB distributed to universities with low enrolment. He argued that the distribution of candidates with low chance of admission to universities where they could be admitted was more beneficial to the candidates than to the universities that were to admit them.

Ade-Ojo contested the view that the new policy was the outcome of the board's determination to curb the excesses of some universities which see post-Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) screening exercise as an avenue to generate income without considering the future of the candidates.

He affirmed that the Board has demonstrated that its responsibilities are more than mere conducting matriculation examinations and pegging of cut-off marks, but also checkmates the admission processes of universities.

•Graduands of St Jude's Private School, Festac Town, Lagos (Class of 2015) at a ceremony to mark their transition to secondary school.

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THE NATION THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2015

THE NATION THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2015

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THE NATION THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2015

44

SHOWBIZ

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• Host of the show, Tony Okungbowa with Eniola, a kid on the show

KSDT: two kids beat show host to test

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LTHOUGH the 6th edition of Kids Say the Darndest Things (KSDT) which aired on AIT over the weekend revealed the daily chores of each of the three kids on the show, as much as their hidden talents, the show also tested the participants on credibility.

At the Etisalat Experience centre, the three kids that opened the last edition; Munachi, Emmanuella, and Demilekan were asked to hold an EtisalatMiFi and ensure they gave it to no one. Being the ultimate trickster, Tony Okungbowa, the host of the show set out to test the children and see if they would relinquish the device for a stipulated amount. Two out of three children declined his offer while only one of them was willing to sell the device at the right amount.

The television show afforded children the freedom to express their perceptions on daily routines, hobbies and beliefs, while reacting to posers thrown at them by Okungbowa.

Munachi, a 6-year-old who says she wants to become a doctor, showcased her domestic side, and expressed with delight how she sets the table with her mother for dinner.

4-year-old Emmanuella, an avid lover of Bible songs, gave a riveting version of how God died for our sins and the process of the crucifix of Jesus Christ by persons she described as ‘bad guys’, while 4-year-old Demilekan on the other hand was very

happy to tell the audience that her favourite food was Amala.

Episode six was not all about everyday life, at least not after the 7-year-old future pilot, Joshua took to the stage and blew the minds of the studio audience with his mesmerizing ability to play the piano. Joshua did not only impress his audience with his ability to play the organ, he also showcased his good ear for which keys were played when he was put to a blind test of guessing what chords were struck by Okungbowa with eyes closed.

Commenting on the sixth episode, Head, Events & Sponsorships, Etisalat Nigeria, Modupe Thani said, “The dynamic and unpredictable nature of Nigerian children is truly magical to watch. Children generally are gifts to be cherished and treasured. However, with the show, we get to see the innocence, brilliance, and remarkable abilities of the Nigerian children.”

Thani added: ‘’As such, Etisalat is delighted to sponsor this show because it enhances their overall development and growth. Through Cliqlite, we consistently demonstrate our philosophy of contributing towards the education of the Nigerian Child.”

Sponsored by Etisalat, KSDT currently enjoys wide viewership in many countries including, Australia, Singapore, India and Italy and it runs every Sunday, 7pm on AIT and DSTV Channel 253.

Bolaji Rosiji takes Gaurapad to Ghana

N a bid to extend his philanthropic gesture to other parts of Africa, former president of the Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria (PMAN), Bolaji Rosiji, has established a branch of the popular Gaurapad Charities in Accra, Ghana.

At a well-attended ceremony anchored by Ghanaian actor and on-air personality, Chris Attoh at the center, located at Number 28 Adjiringanor Road, East Legon, Accra, Rosiji, founder of Gaurapad, announced the grand entry of the NGO into the league of multinationals that are positively affecting the lives of many.

He said the outfit has a mission to empower people financially and to liberate others afflicted with various health problems.

The company offers unique transdermal patch products which are effective for various health problems, and has over 60,000 members on its platform.

Special guest of honour at the event, Mr. Rasheed Pelpuo, Honorable Minister of Private & Public sector of the Republic of Ghana expressed his profound gratitude to Gaurapad Charities for extending its work and services to the people of Ghana.

He said: “I am willing bring the force of the Government of Ghana to bear on the activities of this NGO in order to forge a partnership to provide free health care, empower people and create entrepreneurs.”

Bolaji stressed that Gaurapad Charities is in Ghana to create a revolution in the financial empowerment of people on its platform and to assist them to take full responsibility of their financial situation.

According to him, “Most people struggle to get the next meal or to pay the next rent...but it is your responsibility to live well and to educate your children in the best schools. And at the end of the day, it is a responsibility to bless others with the money you make.”

Also speaking at the launch, the Director of Operations, Mrs. Nike Denis stressed that Gaurapad Charities is an NGO that does “everything to perfection, everything in excellence and everything in excess; every good thing”. “Poverty and diseases are menacingly democratic – they know no boundaries and may not be respecter of persons. Even the wealthiest nations still have poor people among their ranks. Gaurapad Charities has vowed to expand its frontiers to bring financial and physical liberation to people by opening more branches worldwide.”

She introduced Mr. Victor Udom as the location manager and Dr. Jones Gyedu, a graduate of the University of Ghana Medical School, as the Associate Doctor who will pioneer the delivery of free health care within Accra.

• Attoh, Pelpuo and Rosiji

Ruggedman to celebrate clothing line, birthday

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By Dupe Ayinla-Olasunkanmi T is no longer news that Ruggedman is planning the official launch of his clothing lines, airport wearing the 8Figures varsity jackets the products which are already on sales. from Ruggedman’s TSW. Latest information has it that the launch has been fixed for September 20, as a double show, as he will also be celebrating his birthday on the day.

Activities scheduled for the planned star-studded event include a fashion show to unveil the 2015/16 edition designs from Twentieth September Wears (TSW) clothing line.

Some of the artistes expected at the event to

By Jane Kolade be hosted by Denrele are, Akpororo, Kcee, MI ing Gbenro Ajibade temporarily, playing the Abaga, Solidstar, Presh, and Seyi law among character of photographer Soji Bankole, a lead others.

Michael Stephens, known as Ruggedman, a character in the series.

The producers of the soap state that Faniran graduate of Political Science from Lagos State • Monalisa with Ruggedman will be standing in for Ajibade who is pres- University, started music in 1999, becoming one of the most featured rappers in Nigeria. ently on honeymoon.

Faniran, a model, is an avid drummer and His albums are all released on his personal singer who recently released a new song and label, Rugged Records.

Ruggedman, one of the United Nations Peace video titled Say No. The artiste says that the

By Ruth Iluobe single is aimed at addressing the recent xe- Ambassadors, has a clothing line called 20th nophobic crisis that engulfed South Africa a September Wear, named after his birthday.

OUNDER of the annual Headies Awards, Recall that in 2014, the rapper’s clothing line few months ago. The video castigates xenoAyo Animashaun, has said that entries are phobia, and its negative effect on the conti- was said to be doing well, as pictures of the now open for the 2015 edition of the trio of Foxy, P.Kekere Lion and Kapone who awards, coming up later in the year. nent as a whole.

The handsome and trendy hunk is the fa- are notable African comedians based in He revealed that the award will only accept ther of a cute boy, who was born while still America went viral online, spotted at Chicago audio or visual materials released between July in the BBA House.

2014 and June 2015.

He said: “We have come a long way in celebrating the Nigerian music industry and the outstanding talents that have contributed to the growth we see today. This is the 10th edition of the Headies and so it is a celebration. We are

By Dupe Ayinla-Olasunkanmi constantly exploring new, exciting and ground Ghanaian actor Ecowsmith Asante secretly got married to his breaking ideas to make this event bigger than it purported longtime fiancée, in a low key ceremony which took has become and this edition will be better than place over the weekend. last year's."

News of the marriage was made public by his colleague, Jackie According to the Smooth Promotions CEO, Appiah, who posted the wedding picture, congratulating the couple. all entries are to be submitted online via the “My heart is filled with joy today to see you so happy and in love, awards website on www.the headies.com beCongratulations to the happy couple. So much love ahead of you tween August 11 and September 15. and the best is yet to come. Be happy and never be blue, because two The 2014 edition of the Headies was held at hearts will beat as one,” she wrote. the Convention Centre, Eko Hotels and Suites, Reports has it that the wedding was attended by some celebrities. Victoria Island, Lagos on Sunday December 14, It was also said that the actor revealed that, after turning 40, apart 2014 and was attended by notable artistes like from pressures from certain quarters to get married, loneliness also Tiwa Savage, Wizkid, Davido, Psquare, MI, Rita influenced his decision to tie the nuptial knot.

Dominic, and Dakore Egbuson among others.

Tayo Faniran joins Tinsel House

Organisers open entries for Headies 2015

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IME does seem to change as popular BBA Hotshot contestant, Tayo Faniran is joining the Tinsel cast.

Reports say the BBA finalist will be replac-

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Ghanaian actor Ecowsmith Asante weds secretly

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THURSDAY AUGUST 20, 2015

POLITICS THE NATION

E-mail:- politics@thenationonlineng.net

Lawmakers and their jumbo pay

Senators are under attack over the rejection of pay cut.

Assistant Editor LEKE SALAUDEEN examines the implications of the senators’ decision on the nation’s economy and the integrity of the National Assembly.

With a national ‘minimum wage of N18,000 per month totalling N216,000 per annum, it will take an average Nigerian worker 60 years to earn the annual salary and allowances of a Nigerian Senator

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IGERIANS are angry with the senators for rejecting a pay cut as recommended by the Finance Committee of the National Assembly. Prominent opinion leaders expressed shock that the law makers are not bothered about the parlous state of the nation’s economy. They said the law makers insistence on the jumbo salaries, shows they are insensitive to the plight of average Nigerians who have been short changed by those entrusted with the commonwealth.

The salaries and allowances of the National Assembly members have been subject of debate over the years. Many believe it was outrageous when compared to what their counterparts in other climes earn. Others argued that Nigerian economy can’t sustain it.

Though the basic salary of the National Assembly members is not in contest but the outrageous allowances they fixed for themselves.

The mind bogging allowances include: Accommodation (Senator N4m, Rep N3.9m); Vehicle loan (Senator N8m, Rep N7.94m); Furniture (Senator N6m, Rep N5.9m); severance gratuity (Senator N6m, N5.9m).

They also include motor vehicle fuelling and maintenance (Senator N1.5m, Rep N1.4m); constituency (Senator N5m, Rep N1.9m); domestic staff (Senator N1.5m, Rep N1.4m) Personal Assistant (Senator N506, 600, Rep N496, 303); Entertainment (Senator N607, 920, Rep N595, 563); recess (Senator N202, 640, Rep N198, 521); utilities (Senator N607, 920, Rep N397, 042); newspapers/periodicals (Senator N303, 960, Rep N297, 781), house maintenance (Senator N101, 320, RepN99, 260) and wardrobe (Senator N506, 600, Rep N496, 303). Other allowances are estacode (Senator $950, Rep $900) and duty tour allowance (Senator N37,000, Rep N35,000).

Analysts said the eighth National Assembly largely dominated by members of the All Progressives Congress (APC), who rode to power on the vehicle of change, are insisting that the old order must be maintained. They explained that the change Nigerians want is the change that would rejuvenate the prostrate economy, the change that would revamp country’s battered image, the change that would rekindle ordinary Nigerians hope in the country and strengthen his resolve to work for and defend the country that must immediately begin with members of the National Assembly adding the change must be seen in their salaries and allowances.

Irked by the Senators reaction, Second Republic law maker, Dr Junaid Muhammed castigated them for what he described as insensitivity to the general feelings of the populace to their opulent life style which is at variance with the economic situation in the country.

Mohammed lamented that the 1979 and 1999 Constitutions made provisions for the members of National Assembly to fix their salaries and allowances. “It was a mistake that the 1979 and 1999 Constitutions empower the law makers to fix their salaries and allowances. In a normal society or a matured democracy, you don’t allow members of legis-

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•Saraki

•Dogara

lature to fix their salaries.

“In a civilised and rational society, the nation pays the people including law makers, based on the content of the service rendered and what the nation’s economy can afford.

There is no justification for the outrageous salaries and allowances fixed by them. When the economy nose dive, the normal thing to do is to cut down the expenses and plug all the leakages in the system so that the nation do not go bankrupt.

“As a matter of policy, the salaries and allowances of the National Assembly members must relate to what is being paid to other workers in the economy in relation to what is obtained in advanced democracies like the United States of America, Britain, France, Germany and Canada among others. Paying Nigeria Senators salaries higher than what President Obama of US earns is senseless. The United States is the most powerful country and the largest economy in the world”.

The Kano born politician said: “What I expect from the Senators is to set in motion the machinery for downward review of their salaries and allowances. Anything short of that will portray them as greedy people who care less about the well being of the country and the down trodden who bear the brunt of economic mismanagement and financial recklessness of the few who found themselves in leadership position”.

The Executive Director, Conscience Nigeria, Mr Tosin Adeyanju, was upset by the senators reaction to pay cut. He recalled that in 2013, “the National Assembly allocation and budget was about N50 billion; by 2015, it has astronautically jumped to about N120 billion for just 469 people. This is not justifiable in a country that has over 180 million people, and in a nation that is in economic crises with huge dependence on oil revenue that has dipped by 50 per cent” The civil rights activist noted that Nigerian law makers were the highest paid in the world and demanded 60 per cent cut in their pay package. According to him, with a national minimum wage of N18,000 per month totalling N216,000 per annum, it will take an average Nigerian worker 60 years to earn the annual salary and allowances of a Nigerian Senator. This is not right and something urgent has to be done to slash the salaries

and allowances of the law makers. The demand is imperative in view of the number of Nigerians living in poverty and the country’s revenue, he said.

In the same vein, the former Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, Chief Emeka Anyaoku has called for the downward review of the National Assembly Members pay. According to him, the Nigerian law makers were the highest paid law makers in the world. Nigerian lawmakers earn more than their counterparts in the United States, China, Britain, Japan and Canada, among others, he asserted.

Constitutional lawyer Professor Itse Sagay (SAN) described the rejection of the pay cut by the senators as selfish. He said there has been so much talk about their allowances and one should ordinarily expect them to do something and succumb to the public demand. Instead, they have been consistent in their attitude of not being concerned about the interest of the country but their personal interests, he observed.

Sagay noted that “there are six or seven items on their list of allowances that they should remove, for instance, the wardrobe allowance.

As a man with wife and children, is it not an embarrassment for me to be waiting for government to clothe me?

“Their actions are tantamount to exploiting and squeezing blood out of the nation. I think we have to decide whether our National Assembly should work on part-time and paid allowances based on the number of times they sit as it was the case during the First Republic.

The allowances they are collecting are unrealistic in a developing country like Nigeria. If we cannot iron it out now, we can embark on it in the next dispensation. It should be a campaign issue in the next election.”

Stressing the need for a 60 per cent wage cut for the law makers, Adeyanju said: “We need to save Nigeria from imminent collapse in order not to turn it into another Greece. Political position must be made less attractive; the country needs a unicameral and not bicameral legislation”.

Following the 50 per cent pay cut announced

by President Muhammadu Buhari for himself, the Vice President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo, and the presidential aides, the expectation of many Nigerians was that the National Assembly members would follow suit. Public Affairs

analyst Dr Alex Otitoloju said it was disheartening to hear the Senators seeking to maintain the status quo.

Otitoloju said this attitude surely portrays the law makers as not being on the same page with the president. It is very dangerous to the overall wellbeing of the country, especially the President’s commitment towards resuscitating the economy. Any member of the National Assembly that fails to follow the good example demonstrated by President Buhari is peoples’ enemy and should be treated as a saboteur.

He was disturbed by the reports that the APC law makers in the National Assembly are resisting the change mantra of the Buhari administration and insisting that the older must be maintained. He faulted the argument of the law makers that they use part of their allowances to empower members of their constituencies. “Law makers are not father Xmas.

They are not elected to dole out money to their constituents; they are expected to offer quality representation, make laws for good governance and facilitate developmental projects to their constituencies.

“The law makers cannot afford not to be part of or even lead the change that would guaranty quality standard of living for the poor and abandoned ordinary citizens of the country who have over the years being the victims of the tiny but powerful people who have continued to misrule the country.”

Former Chairman of the Nigeria Bar Association,(NBA) Mr Monday Ubani was furious over what he described as fabulous salaries and allowances being drawn by the law makers for doing nothing. He noted that each senator has collected N36.4 million and House of Rep member N17m as housing furniture and transport allowances. In the past two and half months, these law makers have not passed a single law, yet the nation had to expend almost N13 billion for their personal comfort.

“How would you expect such people to accept pay cut? They are very selfish; they are not interested in the well being of the nation and the people. They did not work for one week, they have collected colossal sum of money for doing nothing. The total cost on legislative is alarming; it constitutes a drain pipe on the nation’s economy. It is a big mistake that the constitution allows the law makers to fix their salaries and allowances.”

Ubani suggested that there should be an arrangement to make the National Assembly and other elective positions less attractive to maintain modesty in salaries and allowances. “We have states that cannot pay salaries and the law makers in the National Assembly want to live fat at the expense of the masses. I believe time will sort everything out”, he added.

THE NATION THURSDAY AUGUST 20, 2015

46

With regard to the Presidential election, won by the All Progressives ‘Congress (APC) in Kogi State, it was basically because of Buharimania ’

POLITICS Kogi State Governor Idris Wada spoke with reporters in Lagos on the cash crunch, the state’s debt profile, his second term bid and the preparations for the governorship election. MUSA ODOSHIMOKHE was there.

‘APC can’t displace PDP in Kogi’ I

N the face of dwindling resources across the country, what course is your administration carting for Kogi State, in terms of sustainability and survival?

Kogi State is totally a civil service state. But, we have a lot of solid minerals that can be explore to provide economic opportunities for our people. The Federal Government by the provisions of the constitution takes control of the mineral resources. The state government has limited role to play in terms of what it does in exploring the mineral resources. That is why the states are seeking the necessary permission and licences, from the Federal Government to exploit the mineral resources within the state.

Again, the security situation in the country has made it quite difficult to attract the type of investors, who have financial capacity, to exploit solid mineral resources in the state. That is why we have focused on agriculture, which is a straight forward fact in terms of development and economic opportunities. We have created the enabling environment which promotes agricultural development in our state. The people have invested in farming than it used to be.

We are working with the Federal Government, World Bank and Agriculture Development Bank to establish the farms in the state. We have acquired hectare of lands running into 30,000.

We are now a rice growing state in Nigeria. We have got a lot of young people to invest in farming. We have equally made effort to improve on our Internally Generated Revenue (IGR). We have increase it from about N150 million a month, to about N550 million. Remember that Kogi is a civil service state. We have invested in the Obajana Cement and there are smaller industries that are coming up as well. This we have done through our industrial promotion drive efforts. All these will eventually bring income to the state and would be able to pay its workers and meet up other social responsibilities. There are other economic benefit will accrue to the state in due course given our efforts.

We are promoting small and medium scale industries, creating conducive environment for enterprises in the state. We have reformed our land allocation and administration policy in the state. This is meant to promote the establishment of agriculture and encourage investors in the state. The reforms will take care of land allocation and the bureaucracy associated with it. All of these have made it easier for people to come and establish in the state and to promote industrial growth. In the last three and half years, we have been able to promote the establishment of cement factory, hoping that in the months ahead, it will be put on sale for public consumption. The foundation of the cement factory was laid about two and half years ago.

These are some of the things we have done for the economic transformation of the state. The tourism centres in our state are being refurbished and renovated. The historical artefacts are being rehabilitated to promote tourism and generate income for the state. It will increase the IGR of our state in the coming years; and strongly know these will become regular source

of income for the state in the years ahead.

In the past incumbent governors are given automatic ticket, but you are contesting with others for the position. It was also said the leadership People Democratic Party (PDP) in Kogi demanded N1 billion from you to get its support for your ambition. What is your reaction?

On the issue of automatic ticket has not place in the PDP. From my experience, the only person who has in a way got it in the PDP was the immediate past President of the country, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan. It was automatic in the sense that he was the sole candidate during the primary. There was primary and he was the only presidential candidate. The others withdrew before the day of the primaries.

That to an extent was the only semblance of automatic ticket. Normally, in the contest for leadership of the state, people show interest.

Those who show interest see the incumbent as a challenge? And because you are incumbent, your second run for office is not as free.

You are restrained until you are in office again.

So, you don’t have the same space like those outside. You don’t have the same opportunities, as those who are outside, in terms of issuing statements. You are restrained, you have a lot of restriction because of the position you are occupying. That is why you see lots of people coming out to contest. But, all must go through a primary, even when nobody shows interest, you must go through primaries. It is a yes vote or no vote, that determines whether you get the ticket or not. I don’t know of any position in the PDP constitution that gives automatic ticket to anyone. It is the party leadership that pronounce it. When that is done is done, I will announce my interest whether to contest or not. We are not at that point yet, you will hear from me when we get there.

On the issue of the PDP and the National Working Committee demanding money from me, that is a matter to ponder about. Whoever is insinuating that the sum of N1 billion was demanded from me is evil, it is a lie. It is part of this evil machination by people who don’t want progress. In Kogi State, we don’t have N1 billion to give to anybody, I can assure you.

Having paid our workers up to date and embarking on infrastructure development, I can tell you that we don’t have N1 million to give to anybody. And nobody has ever asked me for N1 billion or the NWC. What will I get from the chairman to invest N1 billion just to earn a ticket? So, let us be realistic, when some of these things are said, we should questions about the logic in them. So, it is just a figment of the people imagination. There is no basis or foundation for that kind of statement.

How are you preparing for the election?

With regard to the Presidential election, won by the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kogi State, it was basically because of Buharimania. It is a movement which many people boarded the train. That is why we are where we are today. It is not because the PDP is not doing well in the state. The PDP is on ground, it is a solid party and has added value

•Wada

Whoever is ‘ insinuating that the

sum of N1 billion was demanded from me is evil. It is a lie.

It is part of this evil machination by people who don’t want progress

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to the lives of the people. We have structure in every local government, we have structure in every ward and we are confident we will win by the grace of God, in the next election.

And if I will correct other wrong impression, the PDP won major of the seats in the Kogi State House of Assembly election. That is a reflection of the fact that once you remove the Buharimania out of the equation, PDP is solidly on ground, we will win the next election. As regards to performance, of course, you will not expect my opponents to praise me. They will always find something wrong.

What we do as a sitting governor, our opponents will always see something bad in them.

Your administration has been accused of not performing...

You measure performance in context to the

•From left: Alhaji Fatai Oluwole, Senator 'Gbenga Ashafa, the Ayangburen of Ikorodu, Oba Kabiru Adewale Shotobi, and Olori Kudirat Abosede Shotobi during a courtesy visit to the Palace of Ayangburen by the senator.

fund available to you. For instance, we are trying to build a flyover in Lokoja, which they cost it at about N4.6 million. In a state like ours, getting N4.6 million is a major challenge. In some states, this is nothing. Our average income per month is about N3.2 billion per month. Our salary base is about N3 billion per month. So we have challenges. But, if you look at the money that has come into the state during my tenure, you will agree that we have performed in term of development of the state. We have done well with the fund available to us. The projects are there for you to verify. These are comments from our opponents, and you will remember the contest of my coming on board, that people who lost out despite our effort at reconciliation, have continued to hammer us. Some went to court, with two of them ending up at the Supreme Court level. Some of them are still in the court despite the fact that we are approaching another election. In such an environment, they only look at what you have done wrong, but the reality on ground, is that we have performed. We have tried to follow due process; we have done well within the resource made available.

In this period of cash crunch, how are you reducing the cost of governance. Could you also shed light on the debt profile of your state?

In the effort to reduce the cost of governance, we have reduced many areas of waste as you can see. We are focused on ensuring, that government business is done transparently well and in a competitive way. We are ensuring that government get value on whatever money we spend on projects. We are ensuring the completion of projects being executed and prompt delivery. On labour matters, we are very sensitive to the nature of our state; it is a civil service state. We ensure that the issue of down-sizing does not arise, trying to accommodate as many workers as we can within the resources available.

We are blocking leakages and ensuring prudent management of resources available. For any project that we embark on, we properly cost them and award them to competent and reliable contractors to execute for us. We are also trying as much as possible to improve our IGR. Our financial system is now computerised, reducing the use of papers work.

These are efforts to reduce waste. The money to be accrued from this will go a long way, to for the benefit of the state. On the debt profile, we have very low debt profile. We have overdraft of N1 billion, we have about N1.5 billion in term of money that is taken as counterpart funding for primary education. We have a bond that we subscribed to in the capital market amounting to N20 billion, which we have drawn N8 billion so far. We are using the bond money for the tourist projects, most of the projects are in the degree of 40 percent completion. We still have close to N12 billion to draw. We are in the process of doing that. That is our debt so far.

Some governors appealed to the Federal Government for bailout, but some said it is loan. What is the real position?

There are different elements on the bailout.

Many states have fallen behind in the payment of salaries due to their workers. This became a national issue; the governors met and approached Mr. President on the matter. Governors did not use the word bailout, we went for financial restructuring. The governors were not disposed to that word bailout. But, two elements that I would recall are that, there were some monies that came from the Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) money. That money was part of the dividend and part of the tax. It is the money that comes into the federation account, and is shared among states on the basis of revenue allocation formula. Some people took that for bailout. In the presentation to Mr. President, we asked for short term loans for states that will be extended to five or seven years’ repayment. So that states will be able to accommodate the payment of salaries and structure our finances. More so, the tenure of bond in Nigeria is seven years; the Federal Government bond is within 20 and 25 years.

We requested that those who have taken this bond, the Federal Government should reduce the amount the states pay every month for the bond. The issue of direct bailout was not agreed to, it was money to pay workers and restructure our finance.

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THE NATION THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2015

THE NATION

NATURAL HEALTH E-mail:- health@thenationonlineng.net

Carrot, lemon, garlic, others good for blood purification

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ARROT, lemon, garlic and green leafy vegetables are good for blood purification, a natural health practitioner, Dr Chigoziri Moses, has said.

In an interview with The Nation, the medic said fruits and vegetables help to remove toxins and unwanted substances from the blood.

Moses said fruits and vegetables contain micro-nutrients, which remove impurities from the body, particularly the blood.

He said people who eat raw herbs, especially juice, would maintain a healthy blood.

“A simple way to remove toxins from the blood is to drink a glass of carrot juice one hour before or after breakfast. Carrot is a rich source of vitamin A, which helps eliminate toxins from the body,” he said.

Beet, Moses said, is another vegetable that is well-known for its strong blood purifying properties.

It is a rich source of nutrients, such as flavonoids, amino acids, folic acid, magnesium, calcium, potassium, vitamin A, and vitamin C, he added.

“Beets help to reduce blood pressure, purify blood, and support the production of red blood cells. Beet juice is very strong and so it is recommended that people drink only one-fourth of a cup of beet juice or mix it with juices of other vegetables, such as carrot, spinach or cucumber,” he said.

He described lemon as an effective blood cleansing agent, adding: “People can add some drops of lemon juice and a tablespoon of honey to a glass of warm water and drink it on an empty stomach in the morning.

“This also helps people to lose weight. It strengthens immune system, improves the glow of your skin and enhances digestion, as well as treats respiratory problems, toothache and gum bleeding.”

Garlic, he said, can also help to lower high blood pressure. “It eliminates plague from arteries. This medicinal herb is also useful to improve the flow of blood and relax its vessels. So, people can eat a few

P

EOPLE living with sickle cell disease have been advised to take diets rich in protein, fruits, and vegetables.

According to an integrative medicine consultant, Dr Emmanso Umobong, taking a required diet can help to alleviate the crises of sickle cell disorder (SCD) patients.

Umobong, who is the director of Emm-mongs Sickle Cell Outreach Programme, urged victims to avoid refined sugars, white flour meals, cholesterol diets, fats and salt intake.

He said they should take supplements with vitamin C, calcium, zinc, magnesium and vitamin D3 and amino acids which are good for SCD patients.

“They should drink enough water because it is important to maintain adequate hydration. As adults, they should take between three and four litres of water on a daily. SCD patients should be exposed to moderate heat in the environment. A steady room temperature must be maintained. They should watch the use of air conditioners,” he said.

Umobong cautioned against malaria and respiratory tracts infections, adding that these can make them more susceptible to crises.

He advised them to avoid drugs, which adversely affect the liver, es-

• Carrot

• Garlic

By Wale Adepoju

cloves of garlic daily to purify their blood.

“Garlic supplements are also available in the market. People may not feel comfortable to chew cloves of garlic due to its foul odour. This should not pose a challenge to anyone as they can get the same result by cutting a clove into pieces with a knife; after that pour the pieces into the mouth and drink it with a glass of clean-drinking water. This way, you overcome the foul-smelling garlic odour.”

Green leafy vegetables, he said, contain chlorophyll, which is good for cleansing the blood.

“The green leafy vegetables have excellent blood purifying properties. It helps to remove toxins from the blood and intestine. In fact, juice fasting is considered to be one of the best ways to purify or cleanse the blood. People can drink juices of green vegetables, such as stinging nestle, barley grass, spinach, parsley, alfalfa, and garden-egg leaves to get rid of toxins from the blood,” Moses said.

Explaining how blood purification works, he said blood can be likened

• Dr Moses to a car, which is used for transportation, and as such, require a routine maintenance if it is to last.

Blood, he said, can be purified

through a simple and affordable way by using herbal juices or direct eaten of raw dietary herbs.

This, he said, would save people the pain of visiting the hospital.

Moses said there are many disorders in the blood, caused by oxygenated blood that cannot make the circuit of the body without restriction.

“There are many reasons blood flowing around the body may be inhibited. For example, clots may form in the larger veins in the leg or pelvic area, travel to the lung, and become trapped in the pulmonary artery; that results in diminished blood flow and less oxygen getting pumped to the rest of the body,” he said.

He urged people to purify their blood with dietary herbs, saying they are readily available.

“When you take appropriate measures to take care of your blood, you avoid a lot of health crisis which include a condition called pulmonary embolism, which is difficult to detect, but usually accompanied by a sudden shortness of breath and can be life-threatening. When plague

or fatty deposits form along the walls of the arteries, it causes them to harden and constrict. Hypertension also known as high blood pressure (HBP) occurs because blood exerts greater force against the walls of the narrowed and/or more rigid blood vessels.

“Hypertension can lead to stroke, pectoris angina (chest pain), kidney damage, and heart attack. There are other health challenges associated with blood circulation performance,” he said.

Moses said if toxins and other unwanted substances are eliminated from the body, the people would have healthy body, adding: “A proper blood cleansing process done effectively, will remove toxins from the body.”

He said blood purification would also improve the conditions of people’s skin, boost energy and ward off skin conditions, such as acne, rashes, skin infections, eczema, and psoriasis,” he said.

People, Moses said, can purify or detoxify their blood by adding blood cleansing foods and herbs to their diet, and as such, flush toxins out of their blood.

‘Sickle cell crises are preventable’

By Oluoma Omeihe

pecially paracetamol used excessively.

“They should not abuse alcohol or inhale harmful chemicals, such as chloroform. Many persevered foods or colored foods contain harmful chemicals,” he said.

He urged them to sleep in well ventilated environment, adding that they must wear warm clothing in cold weather.

Umobong recommended an integrative medicine approach for SCD treatment.

This, he said, involves the use of proven or evidence based modalities whether from the world of orthodox (biomedical in Nigeria) medicines, complementary, traditional or alternative medicines, in a well integrated manner to ensure the health of the patient.

He said sickening of red blood cells under certain conditions is responsible for sickle cell crises.

“Sickle cells are rigid and their shapes obstruct free movement of blood through blood vessels. The condition causes clumping, and as such, blocks those vessels, thus de-

priving the organs involved from getting adequate oxygen and nutrient supply.

“The result is acute pain in the organs. The pain is nothing other than a warning signal that all is not well with the organ. People can have bone pain crises, abdominal pain crises, acute chest pain crises (acute chest syndrome) and priapism, to mention a few.

He said attention should be paid to conditions, which promote sickle cell crises.

“They are low oxygen tension in the blood. Low available oxygen in the air breathed in could occur in high attitudes, such as mountain tops or flying at great heights, overcrowded environment, poorly ventilated rooms and polluted air,” he said.

He spoke of the need to increased viscosity or thickness of the blood.

“High cholesterol level, increased white/red blood cells, high level of circulating immune substances, high blood sugar levels and moderate to severe dehydration, are required by an SCD patient,” he said.

He also identified poor oxygenation of haemoglobin as another problem. “In red blood cells, this is a condition in which the capacity of the haemoglobin to carry oxygen is interfered with. So many factors can contribute to this. We should note in this circumstance that the air we breathe is rich in oxygen and it will dissolve in the blood as it passes through the lungs yet the haemoglobin cannot take it up.

“There is a substance in red blood cells called glutathione. It is an antioxidant responsible for keeping haemoglobin in the best state to mop up oxygen. When it is low in concentration, the haemoglobin’s ability to carry oxygen is greatly reduced.”

• Umobong He said there are conditions, which make blood acidic, and as such reduce the oxygen carrying the body. That is because of their capacity of haemoglobin and pre- basic structure, in which the cells are dispose people to sickle cell cri- arranged more like the gills in the head of a fish. They break the sickle ses.

“Poor health of the liver or cell into fragment seen as target cells spleen: Sickle cells are very vul- in slides and generate haemoglobin, nerable to severe damage as they which may elevate the viscosity of the pass through these two organs in blood,” he added.

THE NATION THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2015

48

NATURAL HEALTH

Sinusitis, mucus discharge and systemic candidiasis (1)

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IGERIA’S rain season is on its traditional august holiday, the august break, and should get to work again next month as a herald of the harmattan season in December. But in July, the rain season wasn’t as forceful and pounding as it does every July, redrawing the climate map and making the weather extremely cold. This cold season, I ran out of cayenne pepper capsules and made do with a local brand. Maybe because this is not freeze dried, it tends to oxidize and become less effective. Cayenne, a sun herb, energises the blood, thins it, removes the sluggishness of thick blood and makes it circulate faster throughout the body, breaking the barriers set up by congestions and bringing oxygen, nurture and heat to every part of the body, however far away from the heart it may be. Half a loaf of bread, as we say, is better than no crumb at all. So this cold season, I make do with whatever I have till my friends abroad send me something. In addition to the local cayenne which I add to orange juice for breakfast, I add to my lunch one 100mg of ubiquinol, that variant of co-enzyme Q10 (coQ10) which energises the heart to pump better with no additional work stress, protects us against heart disease and puts energy in every cell of the body.

Another 100grams of ubiquinol joins a light dinner with some fat in it as ubiquinol is better absorbed into the bloodstream in a fat medium. The fat medium I enjoy for this purpose is guinea fowl egg, which has been in season for about two or three months. I do not eat poultry egg because of its near lifelessness and load of antibiotic and chemical dyes which give the York a false beta carotene yellow colour. If you wonder if I am not mindful of the cholesterol in egg York, I’ll answer that we need cholesterol and the liver makes it, anyway. With no cholesterol in our bodies, we’d be goners from this earth. I catch myself sounding like Dr. Robert Atkins and Dr. Udo Erasmus, arguably the world leading authority on fat and oils, whose views you can read in his master- class book, FAT THAT HEAL AND FAT THAT KILL. He teaches the need to eat more of the good cholesterol (HDL) and less of the bad one (LDL). It is LDL which oxidizes in the arteries and in the cells, damaging and killing them. We should know how to prevent the oxidation or rusting of fats in our bodies and how to keep total cholesterol count (HDL+LDL+Lipo A etc) from going up the roof. We can do this by improving liver function and by consuming more vitamins and multiminerals. They help the liver convert excess LDL to HDL. Wheatgrass, Spirulina, Chlorella, Alfafa, Barleygrass etc are rich store houses of minerals, vitamins, trace elements, cofactors etc. Herbs like Chickweed detoxify the liver and make it more functional. Herbs like Eclipta alba, my newfound love, not only help to detoxify the liver, they support it to produce more bile. Not only that, eclipta alba ensures that the bile is not re-absorbed into the system when it finishes its job in the intestine. This job includes the digestion of fat and the capturing or entrapment of fatsoluble poisons for excretion through the stool. Where the bile hands over its “captives” or “prisoners” and returns to the system, the cholesterol load rises. No, eclipta alba would not permit this. The bile has to be excreted with the load of toxins. With this batch of cholesterol out of stock as it were, the body has to make a new stock for the shelves.

Excess fat and incoming new fat supply the materials. as it has been suggested by some researchers, this is how this herb support healthy total cholesterol count and helps to keep us slim.

When a reader of this column telephoned me last week to ask me about what this week’s column would feature, I thought of a group of young acquaintances I have made lately and some men and women who are being treated by their doctor for Candida – or yeast – related ailment. My young acquaintances gather at week ends and long holidays to enjoy themselves with harsh spirits without any consideration whatsoever for their livers. I often advise that people who must drink for whatever reason need to understand the bashing they are giving their livers thereby, the health hazards the liver is exposed to, including fatty liver, Cirrhosis (hardening) and even Cancer. These conditions, individually or jointly, may predispose the body to many degenerative health conditions. I suggested they add Milk thistle or Eclipta alba to their diet, for liver protection. It would now appear some of them are excusing themselves from these week-end and holiday drink orgies having been suffering for weeks either from Insomnia, indigestion, bloating, gas and Catarrhal conditions. In fact, one of them is discharging green mucus from the nose. This informs the attention given today to Mucus discharge. And, of course, the Candida question gave rise to another consideration.

Sinusitis and mucus discharge

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HEN, before I became a father, I saw my grandmother suck mucus out of the nostrils of babies I little realised that, some day, I, too, as a parent, would help relieve nasal congestion in my babies in like manner. It can be irritating, though, doing it for someone you do not deeply love. We all think mucus is a bad thing. It isn’t. But too much of it may be a bad health omen. It is produced in the mucus membrane lining of the Sinuses. The sinuses are cavities around the cheekbones, the nose and the eyes. One of the functions of the mucus secretion is to warm and moisten air as it flows from the nostrils and the sinus cavities to the lungs. Dry air and cold air may damage the lungs. Secondly, the mucus secretion helps to trap dust, germs, environmental pollutants such as

chemicals, fumes, smoke and prevent them from reaching the lungs. The mucus, having done its job, drains naturally into the stomach, where stomach acid, if in adequate quantum, kills the germs and the immune system, if strong and healthy enough, takes care of the other “foreigners”.

Mucus from the sinuses does so in obedience to the Law of Motion, one of the Laws of Nature which compels everything to be in perpetual motion. We may also call it the Law of Movement. Anything that isn’t moving or moving not well enough will soon stagnate, depreciate and despoil or die. This applies also to our way of thinking. If our ideas are stagnant, so shall we soon become. People who do not exercise soon become obtuse. So are we when we top reading or clarifying our thoughts and ideas. We suddenly become “old school” people and the young moving world leave our old, stagnant world behind.

Spiritually, too, we may suffer from this lack inward. Of movement if we do not re-examine and re-clarify some of those religious dogmas we were fed from infancy but which may be wrong.

In the sinuses, there are hair – like projections called cilia which rustle or knock against one another to provide the mechanism which propels the mucus forward towards its destination. Any obstruction to this unidirectional flow would create traffic congestion, blockages, breeding grounds for germs, irritation of the mucus membrane and its enlargement which narrows the flow line and the possibility of germ action creating abscesses and poisons.

The poisons from such abscesses may be impacted on the eyes, brain, ears or find their ways to the lungs. The swelling of the sinuses is called sinusitis.

Causes

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E cannot understand the treatment of Sinusitis or treat it well if we do not understand its causes,.

There may be a thousand and one possible causes, as in any health malaise. If we do not apply the rule of the thumb, we may have to rely on a thorough examination by an ENT (Ear, Nose and Throat) doctor. He is likely to diagnose such possibilities as swollen adenoids/polyps/ allergens/antibiotics to suppress vaginal discharge/damp weather/dust/environmental pollution/respiratory system infections/systemic candidiasis/pregnancy – induced hormonal changes/cluster headache/ deviated septum/food allergies or sensitivity to cow’s milk/diet high in mucus – forming foods/dental infection/immune system reaction to the presence of fungi in the sinuses e.t.c.

But many ENTs and doctors pay not enough heed, in the opinion of alternative medicine practitioners, to the possible links between sinusitis and systemic candidiasis.

Yet, the respectable Mayo Clinic of Canada, drew the links as long ago as 1999 in studies which have since been found correct and possible by many research institutions worldwide. It is such a link which informs the linking of sinusitis to systemic candidiasis in this series.

Symptoms One of my young acquaintances has suffered from cold and flu for weeks, bringing up phlegm now and then, unable to sleep or breathe well and inundated with headaches. I know of an elderly man about two years younger than I am who suffers from enlargement of his heart and who believes the alcohol he takes every evening takes the pressure off his heart. I advise him to no avail that the alcohol may merely be dulling or suppressing his senses, like the sedative that it is, giving large amounts of hops present in it. When he coughs or brings up phlegm you have to keep a safe distance to avert a droplet infection. One doctor suggests that you can run a self- test to determine if your sinuses are being blocked. He advises that you bend forward from the waist and observe if there is heavy pressure or pain against your cheekbone or eyes.

If the pain is present, that’s a possibility of sinusitis. It may be present on one side of the face or across the face.

Sinusitis may be acute or chronic, that is sudden or

e-mail:johnolufemikusa@yahoo.com or johnolufemikusa@gmail.com

longstanding. The acute one is more painful and hardly subsists for longer than two weeks. Chronic sinusitis is less painful and lasts longer than two weeks. Acute sinusitis often arises from the complications of another respiratory infection, including a cold, flu or bronchitis.

The common cold is caused by a virus. Mayo clinic says there are more than a 100 viruses which can cause it. In a flu infection, the virus attacks nose, throat and lungs, unlike the common cold virus(es) which restrict action to the nose. A flu attack is more devastating to children and the elderly. In these conditions, more mucus is produced to trap the germs. Before they get to the lungs and other parts of the body.

According to James F. Balch. MD, and Mike Stengner N.D., in their PRESCRIPTIONS FOR DIETARY WELLNESS some of the symptoms include (in their words) 1. “Pressure and pain around the cheekbone and the eyes 2. Clogged nasal passages 3. Thick greenish-yellow nasal discharge, 4. Diminished sense of smell or taste 5. Toothache,fatigue,fever (more often in acute cases, rarely in chronic)”.

Besides the possibility of abscesses in the sinuses feeding the eyes, ear and brain with poisons and germs, beyond the throat of pain and infections in these parts of the body, post nasal drip is a most nauseating experience. A greenishyellow runs down the nostrils as though it were water flowering down an open tap. It brings fatique, nausea, irritability and knocks the sufferer out of work. Who wants to speak with or stay near such a person, anyway?

Treatment

I

N alternative medicine, a five-step approach is adopted as therapy objectives or goals.

These are: 1. Elimination of the culprit viruses or bacterial 2. Thinning the mucus to decongest the sinuses and promote mucus flow 3. Eliminating allergens and reducing exposure to them 4. Healing any cellular damage the infection may have caused.

5. Boosting immunity.

In respect of acute and chronic sinusitis, these objectives will be discussed in more detail in the course of the series.

Meanwhile, I would like to mention a supplement often used for this condition… SHARK LIVER OIL. In 1997, four researchers published a book on shark liver oil which they thought would now have become a star agent on therapy; it received wide exposure in the medical community. The researchers were Dr. Neil Solomon M.D., Ph.D., Richard Passwater Ph.D., Ingeman Joelson M.D., Ph.D., Leonard Halmer M.D. Their book was titled SHARK LIVER OIL, NATURAL AMAZING HEALER. The book details the many healing effects, as they found, of shark liver oil. They name as some of healing agents the following chemical substances 1. Centrophorus squamosus 2. Alkozyglycerols (AKGs) 3. Omega -3 fatty acids (blood thinner) AKG is plentiful in mother’s milk, to strengthen immunity of the infant. In shark liver oil, it provides an immune boosting factor which, like shark cartilage, probably accounts for shark’s not easily developing cancer. It is instructive that cow’s milk fed to human infants has no AKG, which may be the reason many human infants on cow milk feed develop colic and other ailments.AKG in shark liver oil has been found to improve the well-being of people of all ages. In cold and flu infections, it enhances immune activity ditto for allergies. Today, research has established a relationship between weak immunity and allergies of all kinds, including those of food, dust, pets, asthma etc.

Dr. Hubert prescribes shark liver oil for fibromyalgia (muscle, bone, nerve pain and tendon). His book says it strengthens connective tissue. There are reports that arthritic sufferer who couldn’t make a fist do so why on shark liver oil therapy. Recovery from stress and fatigue in good time is mentioned as well. I find interesting the report that it crashed blood sugar count in diabetes by many points. Ditto the positive effect on multiple sclerosis. Ditto high blood pressure. In respect of skin problems, shark liver oil softgels are punctured and the oil is dabbed on affected areas. In cancer treatment, AKG given to patients before and after radio therapy is said to reduce sharp drop in white blood and platelet count which this therapy often causes as a common side effect of radiation. Dr. William Lane stirred controversy with his books, SHARK DON’T HAVE CANCER, and SHARKS STILLDON’T GET CANCER both of which were reviewed and should find a place for it in my food supplements wardrobe in this column years ago. Since then, Smiththsonian Institution has found only one malignant tumor in 250,000 sharks it examined, justifying Dr Lanes assertions. Dr Brohult and Dr Joelson have gone on to publish that shark liver oil reduces cancer mortality. Can the fact that cancer hardly assails sharks be because one third of a shark’s weight is its liver? I cannot forget SQUALINE in shark liver oil. That’s the stuff which makes sharks stay deep under water where there’s little or no oxygen without feeling stressed by the insufficiency of oxygen. It is also in human skin, but produced less as we age. Suddenly, now, I am reminded of shark liver oil all over, and should find a place for it in my food supplements wardrobe.

Tel: 08116759749, 08034004247, 08116759749

THE NATION TUESDAY, AUGUST 20, 2015

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THE NATION THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2015

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THE NATION THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2015

THE NATION

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

BUSINESS PROPERTY/ENVIRONMENT

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Family restates ownership of Agbara Land

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•

•Aerial view of Abuja City... planned for expansion.

FHA’s Lugbe Estate to benefit from Abuja expansion

T

HE Assistant General Man ager, Town Planning, Federal Housing Authority (FHA), Hajiya Aminat Salawu, has said the Authority would benefit from the plan of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) to expand the Abuja City near the Nnamdi Azikwe International Airport.

The plan, the owners said, would integrate Lugbe and its surrounding communities into the Phase Five of the Federal Capital city, near the FHA Estate, Lugbe, thereby making it a major beneficiary.

“When the plan is implemented, Lugbe Estate will be better struc-

Stories by Muyiwa Lucas

tured. It will have better facilities.

Lugbe Estate will go through urban renewal and upgrading. It will become more viable, and as the plan unfolds, it would further translate to improved lives for residents of the FHA’s sprawling estate laid out on over 385-hectare in the area,” Salawu explained.

The proposed district centre for Phase Five is in the estate as well as an oriented road and a major collector road.

But the development would not be without pains as it would lead to major physical, social and economic dis-

locations for residents. Salawu said her unit was super-imposing the structural plan of the new phase on FHA Estate’s layout and its satellite image. This steps, she further reiterated, were aimed at helping the authority to determine the number of its houses and plots that would fall on the right of the way of the facilities.

According to her, 500 of such housing units and plots of land had been identified, whose owners would have to be relocated.

While the FHA would provide a social safety net for those to be affected by the new land, the FCTA will bear the cost of relocation.

•Prof. Al-Amin, MD, FHA

The FCTA is conducting a census of the development in the affected area to effect the required adjustment to the structural plan for the new Phase Five.

UN-Habitat releases guidelines on urban planning

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HE United Nations Human Settlement Programme (UNHabitat), has predicted that by 2050, seven out of 10 people will be living in cities, leading to a rapid urbanisation.

According to the body, this trend has been fueled by inappropriate policies, plans and designs of towns, which has led to inadequate spatial distribution of people and activities, and resulting in proliferation of slums, congestion, poor access to basic services, environmental degradation, and social inequity and segregation.

To this end, the UN-Habitat has released guidelines to provide govern-

ments, local authorities, civil society organisations and planning professionals with a global reference framework that promotes more compact, socially inclusive, better integrated and connected cities and territories that foster sustainable urban development and are resilient to climate change.

The guideline, known as the International Guidelines on Urban and Territorial Planning, serves as a compass for policy makers and urban professionals when reviewing urban and territorial planning systems.provide national governments, local authorities, civil society organisations and planning professionals with a global reference framework that promotes

more compact, socially inclusive, better integrated and connected cities and territories that foster sustainable urban development and are resilient to climate change.

It also comes in handy when reviewing, developing and implementing urban and territorial planning frameworks, and will be available in seven other languages of Arabic, Chinese, French, Persian, Russian, Spanish and Vietnamese.

The drafting of the guidelines, which spanned over two years, was supported by 35 experts, through a broad-based consultative and participatory process and based on evidence, good practices and lessons

learnt from various contexts and at various planning scale.

The United Nations (UN) agencies and members of the Committee of Permanent Representatives at UNHabitat were also consulted and briefed throughout the development of the Guidelines.

The process was supported by financial and technical contributions from the government of France through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the government of Japan through the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism the Prefectural Government of Fukuoka, the Municipal Government of Fukuoka and Seinan Gakuin University in Fukuoka.

OLLOWING a landmark judgment of March 23, 2012, which reinstated the parcel of land in Agbara, Ogun State to the Ilamiro/Ilashe Kingdom, the family has further affirmed that they are the rightful owner of the plots of land at Agbara.

The judgment was delivered by Justice A. Akinyemi at the Agbara Division of the High Court of Justice sitting at Ota Division, Ogun State.

According to the community’s Youth President, Mr. Gbenga Akintan, said the clarification had become necessary to warn the public from falling victim of unscrupulous transactions with the wrong people.

He said judgment has confirmed the Ilamiro/Ilashe Kingdom as “the bonafide owners of all that piece or parcel of land at Agbara’’.

An extract from the judgment read: “Upon the judgment, the full right of ownership has reverted to Ilamiro/Ilashe kingdom collectively and that no single individual or any group of persons parading any power of Attorney whatsoever can deal or sell or alieniate any portion of the said land without the consent of the accredited representatives of Ilamiro/Ilashe family’’.

Akintan told The Nation that the representatives of Ilamiro/Ilashe family are Paul Olabisi Ajose, Elder Mahmud. K. Owolu, Chief Akinde Jagun, Chief Sunday Obanla, Mr. Julius Alashe, Mr. Gbenga Akinmitan and Mr. Ruben Alashe.

The case, which had Chief Adele Alayan, Mr. Nureni Orokoko as plantiffs on behalf of the Ilamiro chieftaincy family of Igbesa, and Messers Segun Sodipo, Rafiu Amusa Apesin, Waheed Yusuf, Abiodun Adepoju, Chief S.O Opara and Akanni Dikko Soyombo, as defendants on behalf of the Agbara community, was further contested at the Court of Appeal.

However, Akintan said of the four justices that presided over the matter at the appealate court, three ruled in favour of the family. He assured that soon, the government would hand over the land title to them as a confirmation that the family is the owner of the land. He also said Ilamiro/ Ilashe family are of the Awori stock and not Eguns or Ilajes as was erroneously reported.

The Awise of Ilamiro, Chief Taiwo Akinmitan, dispelled a rumour of a division among the Ilamiro family and the Ilashe family, a statement that was also corroborated by Elder Mahmud Owolu, the Palace Coordinator, who is acting as the leader since the death of their king.

An elder in the community, Superior Evangelist Paul Akintan, recalled that the kingdom is an ancient town and belonged to their forebears. He and some elders were all born in Ilamiro and many of them are still in the town and that the public should ignore anybody that called himself the sole person that has the right over the said land.

Elder Edun Okesola confirmed Akintan’s words.

THE NATION THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2015

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PROPERTY/ENVIRONMENT

Abuja Garden Estate ‘will have good facilities’

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SO Savings and Loans Plc has asked buyers of its ASO Garden Estate not to worry about the quality of infrastructure that will be in the estate, assuring them that they would be of the international standard.

The Managing Director, Aso Savings, Hassan Musa Usman, who gave the assurance while receiving the Chief Executive of the Nigerian Mortgage Refinance Company (NMRC), Prof. Charles Inyangete, said the estate was a product of the bank’s vision of providing affordable housing to Nigerians who are desirous of living in a safe environment in the Federal Capital Territory.

Usman said the estate would change the face of property market in Abuja, adding that it aims at breaking the price jinx associ-

Stories by Muyiwa Lucas

ated with premium properties in the city with its flexible payment plans, which do not require a prospective buyer breaking his bank account before owning a decent home in Abuja.

ASO Garden Estate, a 900-housing-unit being built on a 27-hectares of land, is located near Gwarinpa, along the Kubwa Express Road, Abuja.

It is being planned as an affordable property that the middle income earners can afford. The promoters assured that the estate will boast of a neighbourhood shopping centre, children’s playground and park, ample parking space, hospital, police post, fire service and schools, adding that it is offering all the amenities at

affordable prices.

While inspecting the estate, Inyangete praised the management of ASO Savings for the quality work done on the project, saying that the estate exemplifie affordable mass housing, which was the main thrust of NMRC. He urged other primary mortgage institutions to emulate ASO Savings’efforts by making housing available and affordable for Nigerians.

With flats at a starting price of N17 million, phase 1 of the estate comprises 249 housing units, made up of two and three-bedroom exquisite blocks of flats and fourbedroom terraces.

The project which is at 80 per cent completion, is planned for inauguration in November this year.

The flats are six per block, and

each has two (or three) bedrooms, with open plan living, kitchen area, all rooms en-suite. Individually priced starting at N17 million for the two bedroom and N23 million for the three-bedroom flats.The fourbedroom terraces offer a wellplanned living accommodation set over two floors; these terraces have stylish features like open floor plan.

There are four bedrooms on the first

and second floors, all en-suite as well as a spacious kitchen.

There is an adjoining dining area on the ground floor.

When completed, the estate will comprise 900 homes, ranging from two and three bedroom apartments, four-bedroom terraces to five-bedroom detached luxury houses.

Ogun to resume rehabilitation of rural roads

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HE Ogun State government has assured rural dwellers that it will re-embark on the rehabilitation of rural roads in the state as soon as the rains subside.

The Permanent Secretary. Ministry of Works and Infrastructure, Kayode Ademolake, made this known in a statement signed by the agency’s Press Officer, Mr. Ayokunle Ewuoso.

According to the statement, government has already rehabilitated over 1,235 kilometres of rural roads with culverts across the 20 local government areas of the state.

“A lot has been done on rural roads, there is heavy down pour, most rural roads are hard tones and if you grade rural roads during the rainy season it would amount to waste of public funds.

Immediately the rain stops we would move in and start grading of all these roads,” the statement read in part.

Ademolake assured that the Ministry would continue to carry out construction and rehabilitation of

roads within the state, adding that 30 kilometres road in Ijebu-Ode-Epe garage passing through Idowa to Ilese had been rehabilitated.

“We have moved to the junction at Sagamu-Benin Express road and Ogbere this is a distance of about 10 kilometres.

In recent times too we have had cause to carry out palliative works in Abeokuta metropolis which included Adatan to Lafenwa road and others too numerous to mention in order to ensure that our roads are motor able this rainy season,” he explained.

He said the state, through the ministry, is trying to repair the damaged portion of the bridge at Adigbe road in ObafemiOwode Local Government Area, which links Obada across the river Ogun. The damage occurred as a result of river Ogun’s encroachment on the embankment of the bridge.

UK tenants staring down the barrel HE average cost of renting a of £1,000 rents home in the United Kingdom

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•President Muhammadu Buhari exchanging greetings with Managing Director Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN), Mr Gimbal Yau' Kumo, during a visit by officials of the Federal Ministry of Lands, Housing and Urban Development at the State House in Abuja ... on Tuesday. With them are Managing Director/Chief Executive, Federal Housing Authority (FHA), Prof Mohammed Al-Amin (right); Permanent Secretary, Mr. George Ossi; Director, Urban Renewal, Mr. Louis Chike Anikamadu and Director Architectural Services, Sani Gidado.

PHOTO: SUNDAY AGHAEZE

Family accuses police of complicity in land dispute A

FACTION of the Ipetoro family of Ogijo in Ogun State has accused the Police of subverting an investigation into a disputed land involving two factions of the family.

The 110- acre land is located in Ojijo.

In a petition to the InspectorGeneral of Police (IGP), Mr. Solomon Arase, the family said the police had made another faction of the family to constitute itself into a nuisance, terrorising the community with dangerous arms and weapons.

The Counsel to the petitioners, Ebiwonjumi Obatayo of E. Obatayo and Co, said his client has forwarded a petition to the IGP on the matter, adding that the petition was assigned to the Federal SARS, Abuja, to investigate.

But Obatayo alleged that instead of allowing investigations into the matter, the land grabbers wrote a petition to the Ogun State Police Command, Abeokuta to thwart the SARS’ efforts.

He also alleged that the counter petition was masterminded by Sheriff Akaun, fronting for the other family, a retired Deputy Inspector-General (DIG) of Police, Usman Akaun and Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) Adesina, who he claimed, were the OC of X-Squad in Abeokuta.

“The modus oparandi of these police officers is to harass, in-

•IGP Solomon Arase

By Musa Odoshimokhe

timidate, molest, and level series of criminal llegations against my clients, and in the process, extort them of very huge amount of money. Besides, the other family faction boasted that the Policemen and the Force as an institution, is in their pocket and they will frustrate the investigation of the petition,’’ he said.

Obatayo added that when the DIG directed the officers ac-

cused of taking side with other faction to hand over the case file to the officer of SARS, the directive was not adhered to. This impunity, he reckoned, has led to the suspects taking over the village, causing mayhem, and making life unbearable for the community.

The Ogun State Police Public Relations Officer, Mr. Muyiwa Adejobi, explained that the petitions from the two groups were sent to the state’s Commissioner of Police (CP), and the matter referred to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) for investigation.

He declined comments, saying he had not seen the reports on the petition. He, however, said since the matter was under investigation, it would be wrong for anybody to accuse the Police of complicity.

He declined knowledge of any complaint against the police on the matter, advising any aggrieved person to approach the CP first before any other thing, adding that he is convinced the CP had not received complaint against the police.

“But, I know we handle such a matter. And if anybody thinks we are not handling the matter properly, the group or any individual having grudges against the police should approach the CP and complain of anything they noticed,” Adejobi added.

(UK) is heading towards £1,000 a month, figures showed, with rents in the south-west of England rising faster than anywhere else in the country.

The latest data from buy-to-let insurer and reference provider HomeLet showed that the average monthly rent on new tenancies signed between May and LAST MONTH was £977. This was more than £100 higher than the same period of 2014, when the average UK rent stood at £874.

Demand from tenants has been rising as, despite the return of mortgages for those with small deposits, high house prices have continued to lock many would-be buyers out of the market.

Recently, it was predicted that by 2025, more than half of those aged under 40 will be living in private rented accommodation, and competition for homes is driving up rents in many parts of the country.

Rents are highest in Greater London, with new tenants signing up to pay £1,538 a month for their homes.

This was up by 9.5 per cent yearly, a yearly rise outstripped by price increases across most of the rest of the south of England.

Over the past year, rents on new contracts in the south-west have increased by almost £100 to an average of £914 a month, and the southeast has also seen a double-digit rise, up by 10.3 per cent to £968.

In Scotland, too, rents have leapt, with a yearly rise of 11.2 per cent bringing monthly costs to an average of £667.

Martin Totty, chief executive of HomeLet’s parent company, Barbon Insurance Group, said: “The July HomeLet Rental Index demonstrates just how broad-based the rise in rent prices has now become – this is a UK wide trend.”

He added: “The south-west of England, for example, is benefiting from its popularity with those at-

tracted to the area for lifestyle reasons, as well as the strong local economy in many of the towns and cities of the region.”

Revenge evictions remain a very real threat and the shortage of affordable properties results in a race to the bottom In April, tenants in Bristol demonstrated outside a letting agent which had written to local landlords suggesting that they could put up rents.

An action group in the area, Acorn, was involved in the protests and runs a campaign for ethical lettings. Nick Ballard, community organiser at Acorn, said numerous tenants had been in touch reporting similar letters to landlords, with one recently stating rents had risen by 13.6 per cent over the past year.

“With wages stagnant and cost of living and employment insecurity rising exponentially, tenants are struggling to keep pace with rapid rent hikes,” he said.

Ballard said the house next door to his had just been let for more than double what he pays “and is currently occupied by eight people struggling to cover the cost”.

He added: “A further effect of these increases to what was already our biggest single expense is on tenants’ confidence in asserting their rights.

“Despite the Deregulation Act that comes into force in October, revenge evictions will remain a very real threat and the severe shortage of affordable rental properties results in a race to the bottom with increasingly desperate private tenants enduring disgraceful conditions for fear of eviction and subsequent homelessness.”

•Culled from The Guardian, UK

52

THE NATION THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2015

53

THE NATION THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2015

CITYBEATS L AGOS State Governor Akinwunmi Ambode yesterday warned contractors handling various state projects that the state would not accept anything that would make life difficult for the residents.

The governor frowned at the slow pace of work on the reconstruction of some of the road projects.

Speaking during a project inspection tour in Bariga, Alimosho and Oshodi, Ambode reiterated his determination to make life comfortable for the people.

At Somolu/Bariga, he said the reconstruction of the road is so important due to its strategic location and link to other areas.

He mandated the contractor to deliver the work before Christmas, adding that while the work is going on, the contractors should provide palliative measures for the residents so that they can live their normal lives.

At Alimosho, the Governor, who described Alimosho as the most populous Local Government in Lagos, empathised with the people on the untold hardship being experienced daily by commuters and promised to ensure completion of on-going works on the road within the next three months.

“In the course of my campaign, I came to this neighbourhood three times asking you to vote for me, I am back here to let you know that this road that is so important to

Two in court for ‘forgery’

By Esther Unachukwu

P

OLICE yesterday arraigned Jackson Anniete, 38 and Alex Lateef, 36 before an Isolo Magistrate’s Court in Lagos for alleged forgery.

The accused are facing a three-count charge.

Prosecuting officer Abass Abayomi, said the suspects committed the crime on May 27, at CHI Limited, Ajao Estate.

Abayomi said they forged a loading invoice in the name of Cilord Nigeria Limited to load Evap Milk valued N1,484,000m property of CHI limited.

He said the offence contravened Sections 409, 363, and 285 of the Criminal Conduct of Lagos State.

They both pleaded not guilty.

Magistrate Adeola Adebayo granted them N150, 000 bail each with two sureties in the like sum.

She adjourned the case till September 30.

Man jailed for theft

By Rukayat Jimoh

A

N Ebute Meta Chief Magistrate’s Court has sentence a 25-year-old man, Uzoma Duru to two months jail for stealing an electricity generating set.

Uzoma, a resident of Ondo Street, Ebute Meta on August 16 stole Honda electricity generating set worth N80,000.

The defendant pleaded guilty to two count charges on stealing and forcibly entering.

Police prosecuting Inspector Moses Uademevoi told the court that defendant broke into the house of one Mr Segun Thomas to steal the set.

Magistrate Fowowe-Erusiafe sentenced the defendant to two months jail term with 100 hours of community service as option of fine.

Police arraign duo over ‘unlawful possession of firearms’

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•Ambode (third right); Bariga Local Council Development Area Executive Secretary Alabi Kolade (second left), his Somolu Local Government counterpart, Hon. Abiodun Orekoya (left), Chief Whip, Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon Rotimi Abiru (right); Site Engineer, Showole Olatunde (second right) at Bariga...yesterday.

PHOTO: OMOSEHIN MOSES

Ambode warns contractors on road projects

By Kingsley Diko

the economy of this area, we would complete it within the next three months” he said.

Ambode hailed the residents for their perseverance, assuring them that the deplorable condition of the road would soon be a thing of the past.

“I want to appeal to all our people living here. The contractor is going to work day and night and also create

palliative for you to be able to use the road while he is working,” he said.

At Oshodi, Ambode, ordered immediate reconstruction of Brown Street, just as he told traders to immediately vacate the right of way to ease free flow of vehicular movement in the area.

The Governor, who walked through the stretch of Brown Street, Oshodi, said the road is germane to

economy of the area.

“Nobody should trade on this road henceforth and stop spreading your market on the road. I have seen what you experience on daily basis, that is why I took it upon myself to walk through Brown Street and I can assure you that work would commence within the next seven days,”, Ambode said.

The council’s Executive Secretary, Dawood Adeola Olajobi appealed to the gov-

ernor to help work on some major roads that needs urgent attention.

Olajobi thanked Ambode for coming to have a firsthand information about the condition of roads in Oshodi, saying that the gesture will go a long way to show that he is a listening Governor.

He pledged the council’s cooperation towards sustainable economic growth of Oshodi.

Man charged with N1.8m electronics ‘theft’

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GENERATOR repairer, Rafiu Adeyemi, was yesterday arraigned in an Ikeja Magistrate’s Court, for alleged conspiracy, burglary and stealing.

Adeyemi, 38, a resident of Musa Street, Ijoko, Ogun State, allegedly broke into a warehouse and carted away electronics worth N1.8 million.

Prosecuting Sergeant Kehinde Olatunde, told the court that the accused committed the offences on September 2, 2014 at Ani-

kulapo Street, Agege, Lagos.

He said that the accused and one other now at large, burgled the warehouse of one Mr Richard Olumide, and ran away the items.

Olatunde said: “The accused, a security guard employed by the complainant to guard the warehouse and one Micheal Daniel, (who is still at large) broke into the store of the complainant and stole his goods.

“The accused stole 22

pieces of different sizes of LG LCD televisions, two pieces of DVD recorders and 20 microwave ovens valued at N1.8million.

“Adeyemi and his accomplice came with sophisticated weapons, broke the burglary proof and damaged the padlocks and gained access into the store.

“The complainant went to his warehouse to take inventory after the security guard quit the job, only to discover that his goods had been stolen.’’

Olatunde said that the complainant received a tip-off from a neighbour that the accused was sighted with a vehicle load of the items.

Olatunde said that the offence contravened Sections 285, 305 and 410 of the Criminal Laws of Lagos State, 2011.

The accused pleaded not guilty and was granted N250, 000 bail with two sureties in the like sum.

Magistrate Aka Bashorun adjourned the case till August 26.

Woman: he charmed me to marry him

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55-year-old trader, Mrs Maria Olasode, has accused her husband, Michael, of charming her to marry him.

Mrs Olasode, who lives at Nurein Akinola Street, Alagbado, said Olasode’s charm made her left her former husband for him.

She also accused her husband of shirking his responsibilities as the head of the family.

She prayed an Alakuko Customary Court, Lagos to dissolve their union.

The respondent, Olasode, 62, denied using charm to lure her, saying “we were both fornicating in our previous marriages before we got married and since then we have been together.”

Mrs Olasode said since they got married 30 years ago, her husband has never given her a kobo, saying she single handedly took the responsibility of everything in their home including their children’s education.

“I can’t read and write.

Since I couldn’t watch my children grow in that path, I

•Man: we were fornicators before marriage

By Basirat Braimah I couldn’t lift myself but he ‘We were both ignored me. He is just prayworked so hard for them to ing I die. Should I die, evsucceed and now, I am glad fornicating in erything I have worked for two are graduates,” she said. belongs to our children not our previous She lamented that her hushim,” she said. band has never strived to bemarriages Olasode also denied beatcome man of his own but ing his wife. before we got prefers to be ordered around.

“She has been a good wife The mother of three said: married and and mother. It got to a stage “When my husband knew I people thought I was the had completed my building, since then we owner of her shop because I he moved to my place and have been since then, he has been overwas always there. She seeing my shop. It is whatdoesn’t get angry. The only together’ ever he gives me from sales time she got angered was I collect and I have never questioned him but I know he steals from me. I spend on him still he doesn’t show concern about my wellbeing.”

She further said she has been nursing several sicknesses for six years and that there was a time her husband spent 27 days with her in a hospital but after her discharge, she was shocked when he requested for N70,000 as payment for the days he spent with her.

“I once set up a block busi-

ness for him. I bought a big generating set, deep freezers and other appliances. To my surprise, within few months, he was back to my shop. It was later I got to know my husband powered the generator set with kerosene instead of diesel. I have never seen his kind of person before.

“Coupled with so many things I can’t remember.

When I am sick, he beats me.

He has never seen me as his priority. Recently I told him

when she got me arrested because I spent from sales to entertain my friends,” he said.

“I still love her. If she insists she wants me out of her life, she should please rent an apartment for me because I can’t return to my previous wife. I will change,” he pleaded.

The court’s President, Mr Olubode Sekoni, fixed a mediation session for the couple and adjourned the matter till September 7.

HE Police yesterday arraigned Rilwan Mufutau,18 and Mufutau Lukmon, 22, for alleged unlawful possession of firearms.

The duo was brought before an Ikeja Magistrate’s Court on charges of conspiracy and illegal possession of firearms.

Prosecuting Sergeant Kehinde Olatunde, said the accused committed the offence on May 15 at Ajegunle in Badagry, Lagos.

He told the court that the accused, with others still at large, were caught with firearms, with intent to commit felony.

“The accused were caught with a locally-made gun and a cartridge after the police received a tip-off from residents that some hoodlums were about to go out for a robbery operation. Some policemen from Ajegunle stormed the scene and arrested the accused, while others escaped. When a search was conducted on the accused, a pistol and cartridge were recovered,” he said.

Olatunde said the offences contravened Sections 328 and 409 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2011, which prescribes a seven-year jail term as penalty for offenders when convicted.

The accused pleaded not guilty.

Magistrate Aka Bashorun, granted them N100, 000 bail each with two sureties each in the like sum.

He adjourned the case till September 31.

Three women docked for ‘public fighting’

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CHIEF Magistrate’s Court in Ebute Meta, Lagos, yesterday, ordered three women to be remanded in Kirikiri Prison for allegedly fighting in public until they meet their bail conditions.

Magistrate M.O. Olajuwon granted the accused: Adeshola Lawal, 28, Abiodun Onwuneme, 23 and Fadiat Ayinde, 19, bail in the sum of N50,000 each.

She said the bail was with one surety each who must be blood relations.

The three are facing charge of fighting in public to which they pleaded not guilty.

Prosecuting Sergeant Emmanuel Ajayi, said the offence was committed at Atitebi Street, Ebute Meta on August 17.

He said that the accused fought in public over a trivial issue.

“Ayinde accosted Onwuneme who is pregnant and started making mockery of her. She called her a prostitute that was carrying a fatherless child. Ayinde said Onwuneme was wayward hence was pregnant and sent out of home.

“Lawal, who is a close friend of Onwuneme, didn’t like the insults. She joined to fight Ayinde,’’ Ajayi said.

The offence, according to the prosecutor, contravened Section 54 of the Criminal Law. The case was adjourned till September 9 for mention.

54

THE NATION THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2015

EQUITIES NIGERIAN STOCK EXCHANGE

DAILY SUMMARY AS AT 19-08-15

DAILY SUMMARY AS AT 19-08-15

Dangote fails to lift market as equities Oando declined by 57 kobo last-minute rally by lose 0.23% to close at N10.83. Stanbic Dangote Cement Plc IBTC Holdings slipped by that staved off a

A

negative market position on Tuesday failed to reenact the same scenario yesterday at the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) as losses by several other highly capitalised stocks and ordinary stocks threw the market into the red.

Dangote Cement, NSE’s most capitalised stocks had led 11 other small movers to override ostensibly negative market when 33 stocks lost relatively higher values than gainers on Tuesday.

With 38 losers against five gainers yesterday and losses by several others highly capitalised stocks, the lastminute rally that propped Dangote Cement up by N3 failed to change the negative market position on Wednesday. Dangote Cement closed higher at N183 per share.

The All Share Index (ASI), the benchmark index at the stock market, slipped by 0.23 per cent to close at 30,042.38 points as against its opening index of 30,112.62 points. Ag-

By Taofik Salako Capital Market Editor

gregate market value of all quoted equities also dropped from N10.321 trillion to close at N10.297 trillion, representing a loss of N24 billion.

The downtrend yesterday further built the negative average year-to-date return at the stock market to -13.32 per cent.

Turnover also dropped below average with the exchange of 299.7 million shares valued at N2.55 billion in 3,560 deals.

GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Nigeria led the losers yesterday with a drop of N1.89 to close at N36.11.

Cadbury Nigeria followed with a loss of N1.50 to close at N28.56. Okomu Oil Palm declined by N1.20 to close at N22.85. Forte Oil dropped by N1.08 to close at N218.90.

Lafarge Africa lost 87 kobo to close at N100.63. Northern Nigeria Flour Mills dropped by 64 kobo to close at N12.19.

42 kobo to close at N18.

Guaranty Trust Bank dropped by 40 kobo to close at N22 while Union Bank of Nigeria lost 34 kobo to close at N6.95 per share.

United Bank for Africa (UBA) was the most active stock with a turnover of 65.95 million shares with N211.86 million in 259 deals.

Access Bank followed with a turnover of 39.13 million shares worth N162.9 million in 259 deals while Skye Bank placed third with a turnover of 30.42 million shares worth N53.93 million in 109 deals.

Besides Dangote Cement, the four other gainers yesterday included Flour Mills of Nigeria, which rose by 10 kobo to close at N25.41; Paints Manufacturing Company, which added four kobo to close at N1 and Ecobank Transnational Incorporated and May & Baker Nigeria, which rose by three kobo each to close at N18.70 and N1.30 respectively.

DAILY SUMMARY AS AT 19-08-15

THE N

THE NATION THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2015

55

MONEYLINK

Afren Plc owes Zenith, Access, Stanbic banks N37b

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FREN Plc’s debt to Zenith Bank Plc, Access Bank Plc and Stanbic IBTC Bank Limited stands at N37 billion ($185 million) says Renaissance Capital (RenCap).

A report released yesterday by RenCap, an investment and research firm, showed that the three lenders have at least N37 billion principal exposure to Afren, which is currently in administration, with “little likelihood that it can continue as a going concern”.

RenCap analysts concluded that as far as the loan is concerned, Zenith Bank is in the most comfortable position, followed by Access Bank, and then Stanbic IBTC. Afren Plc is an independent oil and gas company listed on the Main Market of the London Stock Exchange, with a diversified portfolio of production, development and exploration assets.

RenCap, quoting Afren documents, said Zenith Bank has $100 millon to Oil Mining Licence (OML) 26 and $5 million to Ebok; Access Bank has $50 million to Okwok/OML113 (Aje), $5 million to Ebok; and Stanbic IBTC Bank has $25 million to Ebok.

“From our discussions with Zenith management and Renaissance Capital’s oil & gas analysts, we be-

By Collins Nweze

lieve that of all the banks with credit exposure to Afren, Zenith is in the most comfortable position,” it said.

RenCap said the asset is producing, located onshore, and has low operating costs – which imply that its production economics still make some sense at currently low oil prices.

“The February 2014 facility, is primarily secured by a charge over Afren’s interest (via FHN 26 – the SPV) in OML26, and its cash flows.

According to Zenith management, other Afren creditors do not have claim to OML26. We do not think Afren plans to sell this asset and our oil & gas analysts believe that its cash flows should be sufficient to repay the loan, valuing the asset at $114 million,” the report said.

Further analysis of the assets showed that Access Bank’s $50 million to Okwok/OML113 (Aje), according to the bank’s management, showed it has a first-ranking lien on both, but some of the bank’s claims are subject to counterparty consent.

“Both assets are offshore and not producing. While most of the $50 million was spent developing Okwok, Aje is expected to produce first, by late 2015; Okwok produc-

CBN warns against money laundering

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HE Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has sounded the alert on a new form of money laundering which must be checked now to save the country from international sanctions.

Speaking yesterday in Abuja at the 2nd Anti-Money Laundering/ Combating Financial Terrorism Stakeholders Consultative Workshop organised by the Association of Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist (ACAMS), the Deputy Governor, Financial System Stability of the (CBN), Dr Okwu Nnanna warned that to curb money laundering in Nigeria, virtual currencies must be regulated.

He described virtual currency as a type of unregulated, digital money, which is issued and usually controlled by its developers, and is used and accepted among members of a specific community.

Nnanna lamented that “virtual currency was dangerous because it was not a legal tender of any country hence it has a borderless nature without jurisdiction which makes it a channel for money laundering.”

Nnanna, who was represented by the Deputy Director in charge

From Nduka Chiejina

of the Financial Policy and Regulation Department of the CBN, Obot Akpan “Financial Action Task Force (FATF) has observed that virtual currency payment products and services (VCPPS) present opportunity for money laundering and other crime risk that must be identified and mitigated. Virtual currencies presents a wide range of issues and challenges that require financial authorities to consider and the challenges posed are unique and call for urgent regulator responses.”

Earlier, the former Chairman of the Economic And Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) Mallam Nuhu Ribadu warned that terrorism and money laundering was contributing significantly to Nigeria’s problem.

Ribadu said his efforts at combating financial crimes during the Olusegun Obasanjo administration “almost changed the country but things changed after 2007. All that is wrong with Nigeria is dirty money, follow the dirty money, get the criminals and prosecute them.”

•Zenith Bank CEO Peter Amangbo

tion could happen in 2016/2017. At $50 per barrel, our oil & gas analysts value Okwok negatively at ($161 million) and Aje at $45 million, implying 90 per cent potential credit recovery for Access (facility recovery value largely dependent on Aje),” it said.

•CEO Stanbic IBTC Holdings, Mrs Sola David-Borha

Ebok is located offshore and is Afren’s largest producing field.

Afren has a $300 million syndicated facility from a series of local and international banks on this asset. While the loan was originally secured using Ebok reserves, cash flows and material contracts, the creditors’

•Access Bank CEO Herbert Wigwe

rights were relegated via an intercreditor agreement on 30 April 2015, when Afren secured life-saving interim funding of $200 million.

RenCap analysts concluded that there are legal and contractual technicalities that could cause significant losses with regard to the lenders’ exposure to Afren.

Alaba traders endorse Skye Bank’s millionaire promo

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HE on-going ‘Reach for the Skye millionaire promo’ of Skye Bank has been endorsed by traders at the Alaba International Market, Lagos where the bank held an open air draw for the next set of winners.

Speaking on the occasion, Head, Retail Banking Group, Skye Bank Plc, Mrs. Nkolika Okoli, said the bank would continue to encourage the adoption of the savings culture by members of the public.

The choice of Alaba International Market was strategic as the traders who are also a target group of the bank, trooped out enthusiastically to witness the draw.

“The reward scheme is, indeed, a win-win for both the bank and its esteemed customers as it seeks to reward the customers while at the same time grow its customer base.

During the one year promo period, a total of N60 million would be won by the customers. During the monthly draws, three customers would will N1 million each, while four others would smile home with N250,000 each. Another 10 will each win N100,000. By implication, N5 million would be won each month,” she said.

Okoli explained that qualification for participation in the monthly draw is for a customer to have at

least a minimum opening balance of N2,000 with the bank within that month. Each additional N2,000 doubles a customer’s chance of winning any of the prizes.

At the Alaba promo draw, a civil servant with the Lagos State government, Kazeem Adewale, and two others won N1 million each in the August draw of Skye Bank’s ‘Reach for the Skye Millionaire promo’.

The other winners, Uche Onuegbu, an Aba based businessman; and Adewale Abiodun Adeyemo of Offa, Kwara State, also became N1 million richer after the event. Four other customers went home with N250,000 each. The lucky customers are Mrs. Aina Fabode of Jos branch; Kalu Okeke Ogbonnaya of Aba branch; Lawal Basheer; and Gazal Fatimat.

Those who won the N100,000 prize money are Maiyegun Bunmi, Nnodu Onyinye Somadina, Alebiosu Falilat Oluwakemi and Alaba Ogini Olawale. Others are Wabi Mohammed Bakari, Aina Oluwafemi Abiodun, Friday Adodo, Igbinediaon Augustine, Anyawata Catherine, and Oladosu Kemi Dada.

The electronic draw conducted in the presence of officials of the National Lottery Commission also produced 10 lucky individuals who won

N100,000 each, bring the total prize money to N5 million.

According to Okoli, a customer would qualify for the draw after opening a Skye Save Plus account with a minimum of N2000, while each additional N2000 increases the customer’s chance to win the N1 million prize. Okoli said the draws would hold every month, with a total of N60 million up for grabs during the 12 month duration of the reward promo.

She therefore enjoined the members of the public to open a Skye Save Plus account with bank with a minimum balance of N2000 in order to benefit from the ongoing promotion. The representative of the National Lottery Commission, described the electronic draw conducted as open, transparent and clear, saying it conformed to the commission’s requirements of a credible draw.

She urged members of the public to take advantage of the bank’s promotion to transform their businesses by opening accounts with it so as to be able to take part in future draws. The winners expressed joy at their good fortunes and promised to continue to make Skye Bank their number one bank because of its transparent operations, processes and efficient customer service.

Stallion demands apology for defamatory article

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TALLION Group has reacted to an article titled, ‘PMB’s Cor ruption War And Probe of Stallion Group,’ published in a newspaper (notTHE NATION), saying the story is a misrepresentation of the facts.

It said: ‘’Stallion is shocked that a highly respectable newspaper will allow the issuance of such a derogatory article against one of Nigeria’s foremost conglomerates, without any basis and due verification of its content. Stallion rejects the contents of the article as baseless, defamatory and a concoction of lies aimed at creating a negative public perception of the 45-year-old business conglomerate. ‘’The contents of the article would have demanded a simple verification exercise with the Group by the editors of the Leadership, before going ahead with the publication.

While we have read from media reports that the Honorable House of Representatives, we are contending through stipulated due process and judicial systems that the retro-

active duties are not payable, and that Stallion has paid N17.15 billion at the time the imports were duly cleared by the Nigeria Customs. ‘’All imports and duties were paid as per the rice policy of the Federal Government of Nigeria, there is no question of any evasion of duty whatsoever. ‘’Importantly, the matter is now with the respected Courts of the country and is sub judice. Stallion Group reiterates its commitment to be fully compliant with any final determination made by the Courts in this matter. ‘’Stallion is also fully committed to Nigeria’s quest for selfsufficiency in rice production and has since 2007, established fully integrated rice production facilities of 430,000 tonnes with ongoing projects to expand to 1.50 million tonnes. ‘’Stallion dismisses the following allegations made in the referred article, including words such as the group has a “bad business

record, several breaches and underhand business activities, accused of bringing rice into Nigeria on the cover that their cargoes were carrying fertilizer.” ‘’These are baseless as there are no proven charges against the Group in its 45-year history. The Group has a clean, highly compliant history and has successfully defended any frivolous allegations through the country’s respected due process. ‘’The Federal Government of Nigeria ranked stallion, Nigeria’s second largest conglomerate in 2014. As key criteria for the award, the Government considered the amount of taxes paid, the employment generated, Corporate Social Responsibility and the companies’ turnover.

Stallion was also awarded as the “Company of Year” in 2014 by the Leadership Newspaper. ‘’The writer further moves to seriously undermine Stallion’s pioneering efforts in the Automotive industry as follows: “In addition, the Stallion Group which claims to have

vehicle assembling plant in Nigeria, only imports cars into the country which it supplies to various ministries, agencies and parastatals, most times with undue waivers which amounts to short-changing the Nigeria’s revenue purse and therefore contributing to her economic woes”. ‘’Stallion first of all acquired and successfully resuscitated the moribund VWON Limited, restoring local production of commercial vehicles for the country’s mass transit systems and providing gainful local employment and skilled training to its staff. ‘’Stallion has partnered with global automobile leaders including Nissan, Hyundai, Volkswagen (back in Nigeria after 25 years), IVECO and Ashok Leyland to assemble their brands in Nigeria. Stallion’s plants and products have been inspected by these world leaders in the industry and passed for quality and other international benchmarks. Such vehicles are plying on Nigerian roads. ‘’The allegations in this regard can

be deemed frivolous just by the fact that these highly compliant multinationals will not announce assembly partnerships with Stallion in the global media if there was no such operation. Stallion got no undue waivers and has been a committed supporter of the country’s efforts to make Nigeria the region’s automobile hub. ‘’All importation records of the group in the automobile sector are available with the Customs and other authorities for scrutiny; it can be easily verified, all duties have been paid without any “undue waivers” in accordance with the automotive policy of the country. ‘’Another allegation is the contention by the author that “The Group has also been associated with untidy arms importation contracts for the Nigerian government.” ‘’We strongly urge that the Leadership issues a public apology for issuing such a publication in order to avoid further action to defend our reputation.’’

56

THE NATION THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2015

NEWS

Fire alarm at NNPC’s Aba depot A

Flood alert in Anambra

NAMBRA State Governor Willie Obiano has alerted residents to the possibility of flooding.

He cautioned residents, especially those in riverine communities, such as Ogbaru, Ayamelum, Anambra East and West, to take proactive measures to stem the menace.

He advised them to, if necessary, relocate to the upland to avoid being caught unawares.

A statement by the Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism, Dr. Mrs. Uju Nwogu, said the governor spoke while presenting two

From Nwanosike Onu, Awka

14-seater buses to the Nigeria Television Authority (NTA) in Awka and Onitsha.

According to Obiano, the Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NMA) predicted that Anambra would experience excessive flooding between September and October, particularly in the riverine communities.

He said the government was setting up camps in different locations to accommodate likely victims.

Obiano urged the media to sensitise the public on the impending disaster.

Enugu monarch mourns Ooni •From left: Director, Administration, Restart PDP Project Mr Simon Leshe; Mr Ibrahim Galadimawa and convener, Mr Nwosu PHOTO: NAN Emmanuel at a news conference in Abuja...yesterday

Cholera: Red Cross donates materials

T

HE International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) and the Nigeria Red Cross Society, Anambra chapter, have donated hygienic materials to three Anambra communities to prevent cholera outbreak.

Seven hundred and thirteen families benefited from the materials, which were taken to Inoma, Owelle and Ukwala in Anambra West, three communities hit by cholera in March.

The donation was given

by Justice Paul Obidigwe (rtd)

From Nwanosike Onu, Awka

and Prof. Peter Katchy, chairman and vice-chairman, on behalf of the society.

Justice Obidigwe said the IFRC was committed to assisting the communities in eradicating cholera and educating them on good hygiene.

He said the Red Cross had trained volunteers on sensitisation and prevention of the disease.

“The exercise is carried out twice weekly and will last

for three months.

“As a follow-up on the previous outbreak, the Red Cross conducted a five day on-the-spot assessment between March 20 and 25 in Anambra West and it was revealed that three communities were affected.

“The assessment, which covered 500 households, noted that the communities needed aggressive sensitisation on cholera prevention/control and psycho-social support services to the people due to their belief system.

“Nigeria Red Cross Socie-

ty, Anambra State, noted the assessment and mobilised ten community-based volunteers each from Inoma, Owelle and Ukwala” he said.

President-General of Inoma Mr. Patrick Ugboja thanked the IFRC and Red Cross for their concern, love and care.

He, however, complained of bad roads and lack of basic amenities in the community.

The items donated included: face masks, gloves, rakes, shovels, booths wheel barrows, buckets, jerry cans, soaps and water guard.

INEC’s ad hoc workers lock up REC for unpaid wages

O

NE hundred and fifty ad hoc workers in the last general election yesterday besieged the Office of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Awka, Anambra State, demanding their pay.

The workers, who claimed they were yet to be paid, stormed INEC’s headquar-

Funeral for Madam Abigail Amigun THE final funeral rites for Madam Abigail Ige Amigun, who died on July 9, will begin tomorrow. She was 80.

Her body will leave AdoEkiti for Ikogosi-Ekiti tomorrow where a wake will hold at her home, 1, Inuja Street, Off Warm Spring Road, Ikogosi-Ekiti.

Burial service and interment will hold on Saturday at her home and a thanksgiving service follows at Christ Apostolic Church (WOSEM), beside Community Primary School, Okemeta, IkogosiEkiti.

Guests will be entertained immediately after.

From Nwanosike Onu, Awka

ters and barricaded the gate.

They locked up the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) Edwin Nwatarali, and his workers.

Appeals by security operatives that they should vacate were in vain.

September 7.

It was gathered that the commission had paid some of them.

Some of them said: “Those people do not want to pay us, we learnt the money had been released to them, other states have paid their workers, why is Anambra different? they asked.

APC’s supporters attacked in Ebonyi

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UPPORTERS of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ebonyi State were yesterday attacked and dislodged from their homes in Okworike Amagu in Ikwo Local Government Area.

Valuables worth millions of naira were destroyed in the melee.

One person was declared missing and victims were forced to take refuge with relations.

One of the victims, Moses Nwambeke said his farmland was taken.

Pa Okeke for burial

T

HE remains of Joseph Nnaemezie Okeke, a retired Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) will be buried today in his home at Umunneala, Umudim, Nnewi, Anambra State.

The late Okeke was a community leader, a devout Christian and patriot.

According to his son, Mr. O.J. Okeke, former chairman of Nnewi branch of the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA),

Nwatarali refused to speak on phone when contacted.

“Please The Nation, I do not talk to reporters on phone, thank you and I will not talk again,” he said.

After about five hours, some permanent workers pleaded with the protesters to give the commission till

•The late Okeke

his father lived a life worthy of emulation and will be remembered for his contributions to the development of his country and community.

From Ogochukwu Anioke, Abakaliki

“They chased me out of my village because I don’t belong to their party. They destroyed my brother’s house and carted away his property.

“They have taken over my rice and cassava farms and I learnt they are planning to

sell them.

“I am appealing to President Muhammadu Buhari to come to our aid because we are suffering for supporting him,” he said.

Police spokesman Chris Anyanwu said the matter had not been reported.

He, however, promised that the command will investigate the matter.

Ikpeazu orders ministry to survey govt lands

A

BIA State Governor Okezie Ikpeazu has directed the Ministry of Lands and Survey to survey lands belonging to the government to avoid encroachment.

Permanent Secretary Godfrey Onyeukwu Azu described the governor’s directive as patriotic.

Azu said the directive would be carried out, urging directors to ensure its prompt execution.

He called on ministries, agencies and other relevant organisations to supply their inventory of government’s landed property.

His words: “Such property could be with or without sur-

From Ugochukwu Ugoji-Eke, Umuahia

vey plans and everyone is expected to assist the committee. I assure the governor that we are equal to the task”.

Azu inaugurated the survey committee, whose members included: K.C. Abaronye, Celestine Nwoha and Baywood Odoemenam, and three directors.

He urged them to co-opt other members and appealed to the people to desist from encroaching on government’s land.

The permanent secretary warned trespassers that their projects could be demolished without compensation.

T

HE Obioha II of Amurri in Nkanu West Local Government Area of Enugu State, Igwe Charles Nwoye, has described the demise of Ooni of Ife, Oba Okunade Sijuwade, as “the fall of an Iroko tree” A statement by his media adviser, Nze Sam Nwanze said the contributions of the late monarch to the peace and development of the country could not be forgotten.

“Ooni Sijuwade was a colossus, one of the highly re-

spected royal fathers.

He championed many peaceful and development initiatives in his domain and beyond, which is why he will be greatly missed, not only by the Yoruba people or those directly under his influence, but by many who saw in him a reference point of tradition and culture, and as a father of all”, he said.

Igwe Nwoye prayed God to grant the Ooni eternal rest “as he joins his ancestors after 85 years on earth”.

‘Adopt disaster-preventive measures’

T

HE Chairman of Ebonyi State Emergency Management Agency (EBSMA), Evangelist Ephraim Ononye, has urged residents to adopt preventive measures against disasters.

Ononye addressed reporters in Abakaliki as part of activities to mark this year’s World Humanitarian Day. He said some fire and flood disasters could be prevented, if prescribed safety measures were implemented.

“Most times people don’t switch off electrical appliances before going to bed and this is a major source of fire outbreak, especially when power is restored at night.

“People build on waterways, especially in the urban centres while others block drainages with waste materials; these cause flooding.

“People in the rural areas

From Ogochukwu Anioke, Abakaliki

sometimes farm on waterways, causing artificial flooding while others carelessly engage in bush burning.”

He said the agency had taken delivery of relief materials worth millions of naira from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and would distribut them to victims of flood and fire disasters.

The chairman said the agency was working to sensitise doctors and hospitals on the need to attend to emergency patients before demanding deposits.

Ononye and other board members distributed relief materials to indigent members of the society.

He visited victims of flooding at Azugwu where he promised them government’s assistance.

OPC warns politicians

T

HE Oodua Peoples Congress (OPC) in Oyo State has warned politicians sponsoring dismissed members to disrupt the organisation, to desist from such.

A statement by the Coordinator, Chief Adeola Adeagbo, said the affected people were dismissed because they derailed from laid-down objectives.

From Tayo Johnson, Ibadan

He noted that they were thieves, who wanted to enrich themselves by every means.

The OPC leader said the dismissed members believed that the President, Otunba Ganiu Adams, will be their next victim because they were preys as their name speaks, “Strike force”.

Nite of Praise Proofs holds tomorrow

T

HE 17th edition of the Nite of Praise Proofs, organised by the Praise ‘N’ Joy Ministry International (Inc), holds tomorrow at First Baptist Church, 2, Agunbiade Street, Somolu, Lagos.

Popular praise practitioner and cleric, Pastor Philip Adika and his wife, Lola, will perform at the event, from 9 pm till 5am.

Also performing are: Foursquare Minstrels, Papa-Ajao, Mushin; GBC Voices, Grace Baptist Pent. Church; Olorunsogo Baptist Church Choir, First Baptist Church Choir,

By Tokunbo Ogunsami

Mafoluku; Sango Baptist Church Choir, Sango; First Baptist Church Choir, Somolu and Federal Estate Baptist Church Voices, Abesan.

Others are: First Baptist Church Choir, Ikorodu; New Fountain Baptist Church Choir, Ipaja; Ijero Baptist Church Choir, Ebute Meta; Redeemed Baptist Church Choir, Ibafo; Winrin Winrin and Praise ‘N’ Joy Minstrels.

Pastor Adika said: “The theme of this year’s Nite of Praise Proofs is: ‘He is Still Alive’.

THE NATION THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2015

57

FOREIGN NEWS

German MPs back Greece bailout deal

G

ERMAN MPs have voted by a large majority to approve a third bailout deal for Greece.

In total 453 members of parliament voted in favour, while 113 rejected the bailout and 18 abstained.

German Finance Minister Wolfgang Schaeuble earlier warned MPs that it would be “irresponsible” to oppose the •86bn ($95bn; £61bn) package.

Chancellor Angela Merkel’s centre-right conservative bloc has been divided over the deal.

Prior to the vote nearly 60 of her own MPs had indicated they would vote against the rescue package.

In total 47 MPs did not attend the session.

It is thought a significant proportion are conservatives, who stayed away to avoid defying Mrs Merkel and voting no to the deal, reports the BBC’s Jenny Hill in Berlin.

Finance Minister Wolfgang Schaeuble said it would be “irresponsible” not to seize this chance Mrs Merkel’s Christian Democrat (CDU) party and its Bavarian CSU allies hold 311 seats in the 631-seat Bundestag.

Mrs Merkel’s coalition partner, the Social Democrats, supported the deal, as did the opposition Greens.

T

Last month, 65 CDU/CSU politicians refused to support even starting negotiations for a third bailout.

Despite being one the harshest critics of Greece’s left-wing Syriza government, Germany’s finance minister told MPs before the vote that they should give Greece the opportunity of a new start.

Mr Schaeuble told parliament: “There is no guarantee that all of this will work and there can always be doubts.

“But considering the fact that the Greek parliament already approved most of the measures, it would be irresponsible not to seize this chance for a new beginning in Greece.”

MPs have been worried about two unanswered questions - the extent of any debt write-off for Greece and whether the International Monetary Fund will back the bailout.

The IMF is avoiding any commitment until Greece’s progress is assessed in October.

Some German MPs suspect that the deal could lead to part of Greece’s large debt being written off - with EU taxpayers having to foot the bill.

German MPs had to be recalled from their summer

Turkish troops killed in bomb attack, army blames PKK

E

• Chancellor Merkel

break for the emergency vote on the deal, which has already been approved by Greece’s parliament and eurozone finance ministers.

On Tuesday, MPs in Austria, Estonia and Spain backed the bailout.

The Dutch parliament also debated the bailout on Wednesday, after anti-EU Freedom Party leader Geert Wilders insisted MPs should be recalled from their summer recess.

During his 2012 election campaign, Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte vowed “not

one cent more for Greece” but has since admitted reneging on the pledge.

Although the Dutch parliament vote will not change the cabinet’s decision to support the bailout, it could lead to a confidence vote for Mr Rutte.

Mr Tsipras agreed to painful state sector cuts to secure the bailout The vote by German MPs was the final hurdle before the first instalment of the package - •13bn - could be released, in time for Greece to repay •3.2bn on Thursday to the European Central Bank (ECB).

Bangkok bomb attacker 'is part of network', police says

HE bomb attack that killed 20 people at Bangkok's Erawan shrine on Monday was carried out by a "network", Thailand's chief of police has said.

Police have released a sketch of the main suspect, a man in a yellow T-shirt who was filmed by security cameras leaving a backpack at the shrine.

Police later said two other people seen on CCTV were being treated as suspects.

Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha has described the incident as the worst-ever attack on Thailand.

The Hindu shrine, popular

with tourists and Buddhists, reopened on Wednesday.

Police chief Somyot Poompanmoung told the Associated Press news agency that the shrine attack was the work of more than one person.

"He didn't do it alone for sure," he said, referring to the main suspect. "It's a network," he added, without giving further information. But he said he was certain that Thai citizens were involved in the bombing.

Although the main suspect

in the footage has not been identified, an arrest warrant for him has been issued by Bangkok's Southern Criminal Court. It accuses an "unnamed foreigner" of conspiracy to commit "premeditated murder" and weapons offences.

Police spokesman Prawut Thawornsiri said in a TV interview that the man could be of "mixed origin".

A reward of one million baht ($28,000; £17,950) has been offered for information leading to his arrest.

Mr Prawut also said that two other men seen in the grainy CCTV footage were being sought. "The person in red and the person in white are also suspects," he said.

The BBC's Steve Evans in Bangkok says the new information implies this may have been an organised international operation, perhaps with a religious motive.

The prime minister urged the main suspect to surrender to the police because he might otherwise "get killed to stop him from talking".

Mr Prayuth told reporters the man must have been hired to plant the bomb.

IS beheads leading Syrian antiquities scholar

I

SLAMIC State militants beheaded a leading Syrian antiquities scholar who spent most of his life looking after the ancient ruins of Palmyra, then hung his body from a pole in a main square of the historic town, Syrian activists and the scholar's relatives said yesterday.

The killing of 81-year-old Khaled al-Asaad was the latest atrocity perpetrated by the militant group, which has captured a third of both Syria and neighbouring Iraq and declared a self-styled "caliphate" on the territory it controls.

Since IS overran Palmyra in

May, there have been fears the extremists, who have destroyed famed archaeological sites in Iraq, would demolish the 2,000-year-old Roman-era city at the edge of the town - a UNESCO world heritage site and one of the Mideast's most spectacular archaeological sites.

The Sunni extremist group, which has imposed a violent interpretation of Islamic law, or Shariah, believes ancient relics promote idolatry. IS militants claim they are destroying ancient artifacts and archaeological treasures as part of their purge of paganism. The

destruction IS has wreaked adds to the wider, extensive damage it has inflicted on ancient sites, including mosques and churches across Syria and Iraq.

According to Syrian state news agency SANA, al-Asaad was beheaded on Tuesday in a square outside the town's museum.

A Palmyra-based Syrian opposition activist who uses the name Khaled al-Homsi and who identified himself also as a nephew of al-Asaad, said Islamic State militants detained the scholar around three weeks ago. On Tuesday, they brought

him in a van to a square packed with shoppers.

A militant then read out five accusations against al-Asaad, including that he was the "director of idols," represented Syria "at infidel conferences" and visited Shiite powerhouse Iran. Then, another militant pulled out a knife, at which point al-Homsi said he left the square, unable to watch. AlAsaad's body was later hung from a pole on a main street.

The Palmyra archaeological site was al-Assad's "life," said al-Homsi, his voice shaking.

The activist said he fled the town later on Tuesday.

Slovakia will only accept Christian migrants

S

LOVAKIA says it will only accept Christians when it takes in Syrian refugees under a EU relocation scheme.

The country is due to receive 200 people from camps in Turkey, Italy and Greece under the EU plan to resettle 40,000 new arrivals.

Interior ministry spokesman Ivan Metik said Muslims would not be accepted be-

cause they would not feel at home.

The UN's refugee agency (UNHCR) called on countries to take an "inclusive approach" to relocation.

But Mr Metik denied the move was discriminatory and said it was intended to ensure community cohesion.

The number of migrants at the EU's borders has surged in recent months, reaching a

record high of 107,500 in July.

Most are Syrians, Afghans, and sub-Saharan Africans, fleeing instability or poverty.

Refugees pray at a Greek Orthodox church on the Greek island of Lesbos.

About 10% of Syria's population were Christian before the country's conflict started Last month, EU member states agreed to take in 32,000 asylum seekers arriving in

Italy and Greece over the next two years - fewer than the 40,000 target.

The scheme was made voluntary after some nations - including Slovakia - refused to accept set quotas.

Mr Metik told the BBC: "We want to really help Europe with this migration wave but... we are only a transit country and the people don't want to stay in Slovakia.

IGHT Turkish soldiers have been killed in a bomb attack in the south-eastern province of Siirt, the army says.

The army has blamed the attack on PKK militants.

The bomb exploded on a highway as a military vehicle was passing. Seven more soldiers were wounded.

No-one has admitted the attack, but the army blamed it on Kurdish PKK militants. A further four troops died in gun battles with the PKK in Diyarbakir province.

The attacks come amid a wave of violence after a twoyear truce failed.

Separately, two people have been arrested after gunfire was heard outside Istanbul's iconic Dolmabahce Palace, which houses offices of the prime minister.

Police seized two hand-grenades, an automatic rifle, a hand gun and ammunition.

One policeman was slightly injured in the attack and a third suspect is being sought, the Turkish Anadolu news agency reported.

A statement from the Istanbul governor's office said the attackers were from a "terrorist group" and that they had previously carried out an at-

tack on the Istanbul HQ of the ruling AK party on 8 August.

Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoglu was in Ankara at the time of the attack.

Media caption Turkish police sealed off an area near the entrance to Dolmabahce Palace in Istanbul, as Selin Girit reports The Dolmabahce Palace is a major tourist attraction The palace, in the Besiktas district on the European side of Istanbul, was the main administrative centre of the Ottoman Empire for many years in the 19th and early 20th centuries.

The founder of modern Turkey, Mustapha Kemal Ataturk, died there in 1938, and the palace is now a major tourist attraction.

A man suspected of belonging to the banned leftist group DHKP-C was arrested in January after attacking guards outside the palace.

The group said it was behind a gun attack on the US consulate in Istanbul by two female assailants earlier this month.

Turkey has been on high alert since launching a twopronged air campaign against the Islamic State group in Syria and PKK bases in northern Iraq last month.

South Sudan rivals trade blame for fresh attacks

P

EACE efforts in South Sudan were in tatters Wednesday as warring rivals blamed each other for attacks and the army claimed that the rebels had broken their own peace deal hours after signing.

The government of the world's youngest nation has refused to ink the power-sharing deal, despite the threat of sanctions and mounting international frustration at the failure to seal a peace accord.

"There was a heavy attack by the rebels, but we fought back in self-defence and repulsed them," army spokesman Philip Aguer told AFP, describing battles Wednesday in the Manyo district of the northeastern oil-producing Upper Nile state.

Rebels accused the government of wanting a military solution to the 20-month war, and said they were attacked near the small but strategic southern town of Pageri on Tuesday, on the main road south from the capital Juba towards the Ugandan border.

Rebel general James Koang Chuol said his troops had then seized Pageri, claiming they now controlled the key highway.

Reports of fighting could not be independently confirmed, but the blame game came after a Monday deadline ended to sign a peace deal.

While rebel chief Riek Machar signed the document at talks in Ethiopia, President Salva Kiir only initialled part of it, and said he would return to the table in early September to finalise the accord.

"You cannot sign a peace agreement and then launch an attack hours later," Auger said.

UN aid chief for South Sudan Eugene Owusu, in a ceremony on Wednesday remembering the 29 aid workers murdered in the war as well as the "many more" missing, said that "indifference amongst those in power leaves too many without hope."

Nearly 70 percent of the

country's population is facing food shortages while nearly 200,000 terrified civilians are sheltering in UN bases.

"Fighting in South Sudan has caused immense suffering and loss for millions," Owusu said.

- 'Failure of leadership' Army spokesman Aguer dismissed the rebel claims as "lies", saying that while two government soldiers were killed in fighting, they were attacked by unknown gunmen raiding cattle. Aguer said the government was in control of Pageri.

Meanwhile, international anger at the standoff is growing with the United States and Britain on Tuesday pushing for UN sanctions against the government.

US National Security Advisor Susan Rice accused Kiir's government of a "failure of leadership" and said it had "squandered" another opportunity to end a conflict that has killed tens of thousands and plunged the country into chaos.

The government, which has called the proposed deal a "sellout", says it is not possible to sign a credible peace deal because the rebel forces have split.

Powerful rebel general Peter Gadet and other key commanders earlier this month accused Machar of seeking power for himself, and said they would fight both their former comrade and the government.

• Kiir

58

THE NATION THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2015

NEWS Buhari to NNPC: work with indigenous oil producers

Constitution amendment crucial to anti-graft war, says EFCC Continued from page 4

Continued from page 4

which is why in the past five years, we have made so much investment over $9 billion in just acquiring these assets and over $1 billion each year in work programme investment and this is growing.

According to him, the group is seeking ways to become a very critical partner to government in the delivery of natural gas and other products into the domestic economy.

He said that the group called for the meeting with the President as it identified with all his policy direction.

He said: “We realised we are very critical partners that he needed to know about and to engage with very early in the administration of the President. So, we called for the meeting and he obliged us.

“Mr President was very receptive and promised that all the help and support we need to succeed as indigenous producers, we will get it. Specific requests will go to the GMD when we engage him.

“What happened today was all parties, stakeholders and all our partners in government, that is partner to indigenous operators in government were

•President Buhari

present at this engagement. Of course, we would now follow it up with more specifics when we meet with the GMD of the NNPC. He said that the indigenous companies do not have to take over from the multinational but will compliment each other.

He said: “The multinational are going into some areas which we are unlikely to go into. Deep offshore, LNG, and whereas the onshore terrain and delivery of gas to domestic market, these have become our frontiers.”

On the about 200 barrel per day production, he said: “That is 10 per cent today. Just in the past five years, up from near zero, and we anticipate that in the next 5years (by 2020) we will account for 30 per cent production of about three million barrels per day, that is very significant especially when in addition to that, we account for half of the total gas delivery to the domestic market. We can get as high as seven PCF per day by 2020.”

EFCC quizzes NIPC top officials Continued from page 4

pany shall commence from the production date of the company and shall continue for a period of three years in the first instance, and may be extended for a period of one year and

thereafter for another one year, or for a period of two years, subject to the satisfaction of Mr. President that certain requirements, such as rate of expansion, standard of efficiency, level of development of company, among others, are met.”

Catholic bishops back Buhari’s anti-corruption battle Continued from page 4

administration to bring sanity back into our country by showing common determination to reject corruption, nepotism, favouritism and to enthrone in our country a regime of justice and equity, where merits are respected and the rule of law exalted.”

Noting that the country had been recognised as one of the most religious in the world, the bishops said: “Our prayers can only truly be answered if we do the will of God as He has commanded.”

Reiterating the Catholic

Church’s unmitigated belief in the sanctity of human life and family life, the bishops emphasised the need for the government to ensure that lives are protected from conception to natural end.

They said: “The society must do everything possible to facilitate the growth of family living as a way of promoting responsible parenthood, good upbringing of children and reducing juvenile delinquency.”

Deploring youth involvement in violence, delinquency and sundry misdemeanour, the bishops challenged Catholic youth to strive to become credible agents of change and apostles of God’s mercy to families, the country and to the world through positive engagement with modern media and a deliberate commitment to good morals and behaviours.

corruption and economic and financial crimes cases in regular courts. ‘’All these include making new laws, amending existing ones and improving on the efficiency of adjudication and sanctioning.

He commended the efforts of the European Union (EU), the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and other agencies.

A former Secretary to the EFCC, Emmanuel Akomaye, who spoke on the outcome of the Country Review Report and Follow-up Actions by National Partners, advocated better inter-agency coordination, building institutional capacity and legal reform.

On his part, the ICPC Chairman Mr. Ekpo Nta, advocated better funding for anti-graft agencies.

The Director-General, Bureau of Public Service Reforms, Dr. Joe Abah, said both the Code of Conduct Bureau

(CCB) and the Code of Conduct Tribunal needed to be strengthened in order to be more effective in the fight against corruption.

But Lilian Ekeanyanwu, representing the Technical Unit on Governance and Anti-Corruption Reforms (TUGAR), said the implementation of the strategy document would be the responsibility of the Presidency.

Other participants at the meeting included the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP), National Planning Commission (NPC) and Public Complaints Commission.

Also yesterday, the EFCC said the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) had donated a forensic work station to it.

It said the donation of the equipment was a way of enhancing the collaboration between the EFCC and the U.S. in the fight against economic and financial crimes.

A statement by the Head of Media and Publicity, Mr. Wilson Uwujaren, said: “The equipment, technically referred to as FRED (Forensic Recovery of Evidence Device) was presented to the Head of Operations, Lagos Zonal office of the EFCC, Iliyasu Kwarbai by the U.S. acting Consul General, Dehab Ghereab.

Ghereab on her part praised the long-term partnership between the FBI and EFCC which has existed for more than a decade. She commended the EFCC for its professionalism and encouraged it to keep up the good work.

She said the equipment will enhance the EFCC’s effort in the fight against cyber crime and standardise its operations.

She said: “As we engage in these practices, we needed our counterparts. So, the FBI office made an assessment of the prevailing cases of cyber-based crimes which are not unique to Nigeria.

“In the views of Fritz Kennely, a technical personnel with

the FBI, the device will help the EFCC in analysing, processing and preservation of digital evidence which can be presented in court in a clear, concise and understandable manner, thereby aiding judges to adjudicate effectively.”

After receiving the device, Kwarbai thanked the FBI for their support to the Commission in the areas of manpower development and investigation.

•Lamorde

Presidency: don’t drag Buhari into ISIS chief’s visa controversy Continued from page 4

The Federal Government is said to be disturbed that AlAssir succeeded in deceiving the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) and Embassy officials.

Although the suspect reportedly changed his identity and looks and presented superficial documents for visa, the government decided to probe the incident to ascertain that there was no internal collaboration at its mission.

Some security agencies, including the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) and the Office of National Security Adviser (ONSA) and the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS), will also be in-

volved in the investigation to get to the root of the diplomatic challenge and how to avert a re-occurrence.

A source said: “As I talk to you, those at the nation’s embassy in Lebanon have been queried on how things went wrong.

“The embassy has been mandated to submit a comprehensive report to the Federal Government within 72 hours.

“The report is expected to cover how Al-Assir applied for visa, the documents submitted, what he claimed as his mission to Nigeria, the procedure adopted in verifying his claims; whether or not there was any collaboration with security agencies in Nigeria; and the timeline for the issuance of the visa.

“The government is also in-

terested if the ISIS chief was questioned on where he would stay in Nigeria, his host and the duration of his trip.”

Another source added: “Besides the report, the security agencies will also look into the list of those granted visa in the last few months to ascertain whether ISIS members had covertly applied.

“We are worried because Boko Haram has pledged loyalty to ISIS. And the botched trip of Al-Assir is reawakening because it has confirmed Boko Haram’s claim.”

The Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Mallam Garba Shehu, said: “The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has called for a full report on the case and it is investigating it.

“But it is mischievous for

anyone to attempt to drag the person of President Muhammadu Buhari into the incident.

The Buhari administration had nothing to do with the suspect or the supposed visit of the ISIS chief.

“Without prejudice to the ongoing investigation, it should be noted that Nigerian missions are to serve, they can adjudge an applicant for visa on the basis of documents presented to the Embassy. What is hidden in their heart, you will not know “And for this applicant, we have read report of how he concealed his identity and wore a new look to get the visa.

“Since the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is looking into the matter, let us await the outcome of the investigation.”

How PDP was destroyed, by BoT chair Haliru Continued from page 4

of the party should also guide the activities of public office holders who are either elected or appointed on the platform of the party in line with good governance and best practices”, Mohammed said.

On party funding, he canvassed a system that will allow members make their statutory contributions to the party as prescribed by the party’s constitution, noting that it is a major sustainable means of getting the party to meet its obligations and responsibilities.

He requested that the party give more attention to elders

and founding fathers, many of whom he observed, are still in the party but are indifferent to the affairs and fortunes of the party, owing to lack of patronage.

The BoT Chairman said, “In recent years, many of our leaders, elders and founding fathers have been abandoned in spite of their abiding interest in the party.

“Some have left, some chose to remain but are either inactive, unconcerned or indifferent because nobody has bothered to look for them. This is not acceptable. If there is any time we need them for advice and coun-

sel, it is now”.

Incidentally, it was the same Mohammed that moved the motion for the adoption of former President Jonathan as the sole presidential candidate of the party for the 2015 general election.

Moving the motion at a National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting at the party’s national secretariat, Mohammed said: “We have never taken a wrong decision before. We cannot change a winning formula that has been working for us since 1999.

“In PDP, we have a tradition of queuing up behind our lead-

ers. President Jonathan has performed creditably as attested to by all the organs of the party.

“Therefore, for the good of Nigeria and for the good work that the PDP is doing for the country, I move that the NEC endorses the candidacy of President Goodluck Jonathan as the party’s candidate in the 2015 election”.

The motion was seconded

by Second Republic governor of the old Anambra state, Senator Jim Nwobodo. It was adopted with a resounding ayes by the gathering of eminent party leaders.

UN seeks help for 1.5m IDPs in Nigeria

Continued from page 4

He said that responses to the needs of the IDPs were dwindling due to lack of adequate capacity.

Sidi said there was the need for proper coordination to enable them to harness all available resources to improve the living standard of the IDPs. He said that the day was set aside to celebrate the gallantry of humanitarian service providers.

He said the theme of the day was intended to steer actions of people around the world for a greater humanity and advocate for more peaceful world.

“We are celebrating people who have sacrificed their lives for peace in the world.

“These are people who have lost their lives or survived different threats to life while providing humanitarian services especially in violent conflict situations.

“This celebration is an opportunity to advocate for a peaceful world, bring hope to people affected by disaster and guarantee safety of humanitarian providers rendering service in the Northeast.’’

He stated that Nigeria had faced a lot of challenges in recent times with the Boko Haram insurgency.

Sidi commended and thanked the UN and all stakeholders for their support and cooperation during the period.

Similarly, Mr Danladi Kifasi, the Head of the Civil Ser-

vice of the Federation, said the day was an opportunity to honour the selfless dedication of workers and volunteers who devote themselves in assisting the world’s most vulnerable people.

Kifasi, who was represented

by Mrs Didi Walson-Jack, Director, Special Duties, also said it was appropriate to remember members of the armed forces and security personnel.

He added that these groups of people defended the unarmed and vulnerable men, women and children in the Northeast.

He added that it was through the noble efforts and humanitarian activities of the military that Nigeria had remained indivisible and still able to play

its role in the comity of nations.

The event was organised by NEMA to celebrate the spirit of humanity and people who sacrificed their lives in the cause of rendering humanitarian service.

The day is an annual and global event dedicated by the UN to celebrate the spirit that inspires humanitarian work around the globe.

The UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, is scheduled to arrive in Nigeria on Sunday, the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) said yesterday.

A statement said the UN chief would meet President Muhammadu Buhari on Monday and subsequently engage in other field activities.

THE NATION THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2015

59

NEWS BRIEFING THE PRESIDENT • President Buhari (third right); Vice President Osinbajo (fourth left); Vice President, Regulatory Affairs; Seven Energy, Alhaji Abdullah Bukar (right); Chairman/CEO, Waltersmith, Mr Abdulrazak Isa; Chief Executive Officer, SEPLAT, Mr Austin Avuru; Managing Director First Exploratoion and Petroleum Development Company Ltd, Mr Ademola Adeyemi-Bero, after a meeting with members of the Independent Petroleum Producers Group at the State House, Abuja...yesterday.

•Buhari (middle); Prof Osinbajo (fourth left); Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health, Dr. Lawrence Awute (third left); Head of Diaspora Unit, Dr Omobalanle Olowu (right); Director, Public Health, Dr Bridget Okoequale; Director, Health, Planning Research and Statistics Dr Ngozi Azodoh, Executive Secretary, National Health Insurance Scheme, Mr Oluyemi Akingbade (second left) after a briefing with the President...yesterday.

•Buhari (second left); Prof Osinbajo (middle) Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Culture, Tourism and National Orientation Mrs Nkechi Ejele (right); Director-General National Commission for Museums and Monuments, Mallam Yusuff Abdullah Usman and others at the State House...yesterday.

PHOTO: AKIN OLADOKUN

•President Buhari (right) greeting Director-General, National Agency for Food, Drugs Administration and Control (NAFDAC) after a briefing at the Villa in Abuja ...yesterday. With them is Dr. Awute (middle).

PHOTO: NAN

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THE NATION THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2015

NEWS Sunmonu to resolve NLC leadership crisis From Tony Akowe, Abuja

•Sunmonu

A

N end may be in sight to the leadership crisis that is rocking the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), with the constitution of a sevenman reconciliation panel headed by a former president of the congress, Comrade Hassan Sunmonu.

There are two factions in the union –– one is headed by Comrade Ayuba Wabba, who was elected in Abuja at delegate conferene. Comrade Joe Ajaero heads the other. He was elected in Lagos.

Former President of the Congress and Edo State Governor, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole told reporters at the end of the reconciliation meeting called by veterans of the congress that a

seven-man committee headed by the founding President, Comrade Hassan Sumonu has been set up to iron out all issues that were raised by both parties in the crisis.

Oshiomhole said that each of the two factions are to be represented by three people including Comrades Wabba and Joseph Ajaero.

The mandate of the Committee, he said, will be to meet regularly to iron out the issues in contention until they are resolved. He said the major issues are not about positions since the two factions recognised that only one person can be President at any given time.

He explained that the reconciliation meeting looked at the issues that arose and concluded that these are all family issues and in every family, it is not unusual to have some disagreement, adding that “we all deeply regret all that has happened that led to the discordant voices that people were beginning to

hear from among the leadership of the NLC”.

He said that they have all resolved to work together and build peace within the labour movement as well as in the state councils, adding that those who were thinking that the NLC will break up have been disappointed by the out come of the reconciliation.

He said: “Having listened to all the parties, we all agreed that there is only one NLC and at any given time, only one person can lead and other will follow. But leadership and followers is not a relationship between a tenant and owner. Everybody is a member of the movement.

“Having deliberated on this, we agree that a committee of seven persons be drawn up with members of three each drawn up from each shade of opinion from the NLC family and our founding president, Comrade Sumonu will provide leadership for this committee of seven and they will meet and ensure that NLC is managed on the basis of

Obasanjo challenges varsity on agric enterprise

F

ORMER President Olusegun Obasanjo has urged the Landmark University, Omu-Aran, Kwara State, to teach agricultural enterprise to its students to help end poverty and unemployment.

He spoke when he visited the university in company of its founder, Bishop David Oyedepo.

The University, inauguration on March 21, 2011, has a mandate to drive a agrarian revolution through its undergraduate programmes in the Colleges of Agricultural Sciences, Engineering, Sciences, Business and Social Sciences.

The former president said product development, innovative use of equipment, and food production are some aspects of

By Joseph Jibueze

agricultural enterprise the university can focus on.

In a statement by the university, Obasanjo was quoted as saying that the challenge of unemployment can be addressed through agribusiness.

After a tour of the university, Obasanjo was quoted as saying: “I am most impressed with the overall commitment of the proprietor to agricbusiness and the enthusiasm of the farm director and staff.

In totality, it is exemplary and worthy of emulation.

“The University has the basic requirement to turn out engineers. I think our emphasis should be on Science, Technology or Science, Engineering but

I will always add innovation because it is not every time we can invent, but we can improve on what already exists and that is where innovation comes in.

The University is really doing well.”

The university has 23 agriculture-related programmes such as Agric Extension and Rural Development, Agricultural Economics, Animal Science, Soil Science, Crop Science, Agric and Biosystems Engineering, among other engineering courses.

The Living Faith Commission Worldwide is said to have made available accessible loans to the tune of N1billion to graduates who have interest in embarking on agriculture entrepreneurship.

Man, 32, held for using pepper to snatch cars

T

HE Edo State Police Command has arrested a 32-year-old man, Peter Okpe, for allegedly using pepper to snatch vehicles.

Okpe was held after a car he allegedly snatched ran into a ditch on the Benin-Lagos Expressway.

The police said he and other members of his gang hired a cab and blew some ground

From Osagie Otabor, Benin

pepper into the eyes of the driver to snatch his vehicle.

The suspect was said to have boarded a cab at Okada Junction and asked the driver to stop.

He was said to have blown some pepper into the driver’s eyes and pushed him out of the car.

Luck ran out on him when

the car ran into a ditch and he was arrested by a combined team of vigilantes and policemen.

Police spokesman Stephen Onwochei, a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP), described the trend as new among criminals in the state.

He said the police would probe the matter to arrest other members of the gang.

‘Abia’s development non-negotiable’

A

Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chief, Ben Onyechere, has urged Governor Okezie Ikpeazu not to be distracted in his mission to transform Abia State.

He said the governor’s reconstruction of some federal

By Joseph Jibueze

roads should not be politicised, adding that Ikpeazu must not be dissuaded by “hypocritical politicians” masquerading as the opposition.

Cooperative societies seek partnership with councils

T

THE President of Lagos State Cooperative Federation (LASCOFED), Mr. Oriyomi Ayeola, has called for a partnership with the Executive Secretary of Amuwo Odofin Local Government Area, Deaconess Modupe Ajibola-Ojodu, to develop the federation in the area.

Ayeola spoke at a town hall meeting for FASCOFED members at the council’s secretariat at Festac Town, Lagos.

The cooperative’s president noted that the primary and constitutional responsibility of government at any level is the security and well-being of the people.

He said there is need to seek a symbolic partnership with the local government for the betterment and development of the people. Ayeola said: “Despite the credible performance of many cooperative societies, they will still fall short of the expectations of our members. These range from low government support, lack of access to formal land and deficit in enabling infrastructure, such as roads, water and electricity. So, there is need for government to come in.”

Onyechere, a former Special Assistant to former VicePresident Alex Ekwueme, in a statement said the governor’s unfolding developmental roadmap will uplift the people’s living standard.

The PDP chief said: “The opposition by those who have ganged up against the state’s proposal to obtain a bond with which to enhance development in the name of politics is not only irritating but also repulsive and anti-Abia.

“This administration’s determination to build on existing foundations is principally intended to fast-forward the pace of development and therefore can neither be sabotaged nor thwarted.

“It is for these reasons and more that the governor recently re awarded the contract for the reconstruction of the 35kilometre UzuAbam Arochuchukwu road which crisscrosses Ndiochi and Ndiokereke up to Arochukwu.

inclusion and not exclusion.

“They will help the leaders of the congress to operate in such a way that everybody will have a sense of belonging. We all agreed that all the issues that has been raised should be revisited. Issues of ethics, morality, customs and practice, traditions of the trade union movement and law.

“All these issues and others will be addressed in a manner that will help NLC regain internal cohesion and have a coherent voice, not only in running its affairs, but being able to comment authoritatively on matters affecting the politics and economy of Nigeria”.

Oshiomhole said they have also directed that the matter before the National Industrial Court should be withdrawn unconditionally because the Congress has the internal mechanism to resolve its own crisis.

Total confirms fresh oil spill in Rivers community From Rosemary Nwisi, Port Harcourt

T

HE management of Total E&P has confirmed a fresh oil spill at its Obagi-Rumuekpe 12" pipeline in Rivers State.

In a statement yesterday in Port Harcourt, the state capital, by the company’s Deputy General Manager, Media and Public Affairs, Charles Ogan, Total said the spill was noticed last weekend during the company’s tour of the pipeline.

It said oil thieves might have been responsible for the spill.

The company said the development led to the suspension of its excursion of crude oil and deployment of tighter security for the facility to avoid further pollution/devastation.

It said the incident also led to the immediate suspension of its expedition operation, adding that the spill had been reported to appropriate quarters for further action.

The statement said: “Total E&P Nigeria Limited (TEPNG) has stopped expedition of crude on its Obagi – Rumuekpe 12” Oil Export Pipeline in Rivers State.

“During crude oil expedition operation on August 16, an abnormal situation was observed as the oil expedited from Obagi was not received at Rumuekpe metering station.

“Expedition was immediately stopped and a helicopter over-flight was carried out, which revealed oil spill and fresh excavations on the pipeline’s Right of Way. Relevant authorities have been informed.”

THE NATION THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2015

61

NATION SPORT

The great Messi, Ronaldo debate set to resurface in La Liga I

T has been a debate that has split football fans the world over for years and the arguments will resurface when Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo feature in La Liga's opening weekend.

Players, pundits, supporters and team-mates have all waded in to have their say on who is the world's best player, Barcelona star Messi or Real Madrid hero Ronaldo.

While a definitive answer is unlikely to ever be given on that front, one certainty is that both phenomenal talents will be the driving forces behind Barca and Real's quest for domestic and European glory again this season.

On an individual basis, the pair have won the last seven FIFA Ballons d'Or with Messi's four to Ronaldo's three, although the latter has collected the last two.

Most would consider Messi the favourite to win the award this time around, though, after the Argentina international enjoyed an unbelievable year to help Barca to a Liga, Copa del Rey and UEFA Champions League treble.

Messi rebounded from an injury-disrupted 2013-14 campaign in which he scored "only" 28 league goals to be the driving force behind the club's success.

He scored an impressive 58 goals in all competitions, but Messi was undoubtedly helped by the weight of expectation being shared with Luis Suarez and Neymar - the trio scoring 122 times, a record in Spanish football, and their understanding is again key for the Catalans this season.

Messi put an early season falling out with Luis Enrique to one side to score 35 of his goals after the turn of the year, but also showed that there is more to his genius than just his goalscoring prowess.

He provided 18 assists in La Liga as well as creating 95 chances for his team-mates, and there is nothing to suggest that he cannot match, or even better, those statistics this time around.

The task for Ronaldo will be to spearhead a Real side hurting from watching their great rivals steal the limelight last term and reclaiming the Copa and Champions League titles the capital club won in 2014.

The Portugal star has had to face up to a belief in some quarters that his star is on the wane, a claim that looks absurd against a staggering 48 league goals last term.

Ronaldo's critics would suggest that his goal return is a sign of his selfish style of play, but the former Manchester United forward's assists (16) and chances created (75) were statistically his best in the last five seasons - including the last time Real won the title in 2011-12 - going some way to dispelling that myth.

An important factor for Ronaldo, and Real, is his relationship with new head coach Rafael Benitez.

The Spanish press seized upon Ronaldo seemingly reacting angrily to Benitez in training last month, sparking rumours of a rift with the former Liverpool boss.

However, Benitez laughed off any suggestions of a falling out with his star man, but the vultures are sure to circle if Ronaldo has a dip in form.

Another key component will be the cohesion of Real's front three, and Ronaldo will need Gareth Bale and Karim Benzema to help

share the burden this season.

Bale (13) and Benzema (15) scored 28 league goals between them last term, with the former facing fierce criticism from the media and fans alike during an underwhelming second season in Spain.

Injuries to creative sparks Luka Modric and James Rodriguez perhaps goes someway to explaining why the three did not always appear to be on the same page.

But if Real are to challenge Barca, and Ronaldo is to outshine Messi, then striking a balance for the trio is crucial.

Barcelona or Real Madrid will win the league - it would take a brave man to bet against that.

Who finishes top could well come down to the victor in the latest chapter of the battle between the finest two players of a generation.

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THE NATION THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2015

SPORT EXTRA Emenike major doubt for Al Ain opening game

• Emenike

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IGERIA international Emmanuel Emenike is a major doubt for the Arabian Gulf League opener for Al Ain when they start

their title defence tomorrow at home to Al Dhafra.

The Nigeria striker, who is on a season-long loan deal from Fenerbahce, suffered muscle injury in the Super Cup game in which they beat Al Nasr 4-2 with Emenike getting a brace.

Croatian coach Zlatko Dalic has dropped Emenike from the starting squad based on team's doctor recommendation on the player in order not to aggravate the muscle injury to the player, who the team believe is important to the team throughout the season.

It is now left to be seen if this injury will stop Emenike from next month’s AFCON qualifier in Tanzania.

Lobi, Akwa United for Federation Cup final

A

KWA United will face Lobi Stars in their first-ever Federation Cup final after they stopped Nasarawa United 1-0 on yesterday in Abeokuta.

Aniekpeno Udoh scored the only goal of the game in the 28th minute to book a place in the final of the Federation Cup for the first time in the club’s history.

David Ukeme of Akwa United was sent off in the game, but all the same they were deserved winners of

LMC to present opportunities in club sponsorship to corporate CEOs

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HE League Management Company (LMC) on Monday took the first major step in a strategic initiative aimed at sensitizing Corporate Nigeria about opportunities in the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL).

A major objective of this initiative aimed at expanding the revenue generating capacity of the 20 clubs in the league is that sponsorship of all 20 clubs are to be made available to leading Nigerian companies willing to partner or affiliate with the passion of majority of Nigerians.

The discussion also explored the possibilities of enlisting NPFL Clubs that will meet capital market requirements in the Nigeria Stock Exchange as a means of expanding their capital base and

impact positively on the operations of the club as well as make Nigerian club football attractive.

Mr Shehu Dikko, LMC Chairman and 2nd Vice President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) was in the Federation’s delegation to the Nigeria Stock Exchange for the Closing Gong Ceremony by Super Eagles Coach, Sunday Oliseh and spoke about this new direction when he met with chieftains of the Nigeria Stock Exchange (NSE) led by the Chief Executive Officer, Oscar Onyeama on the sidelines of the event. Other NSE top shots present during the discussion were Bola Adeeko, Head, Corporate Services Division, Adeolu Bajomo, Executive Director, Market Operations and Technology and

Mohammed A Mohammed, Head of Asem Listings Sales and Retention.

Dikko was throwing further light on LMC's call for legislation to levy sponsorship of European leagues by Nigerian companies for the accelerated development of the local league.

He said the LMC was desirous to have Nigerians buy into the ownership of the clubs in the League and solicited the support of the Nigerian Stock Exchange chieftains in this regard.

“We have a strategic proposition that seeks to pool potential commercial partners for all the 20 clubs with a partner assigned to a club and the LMC will offer across board benefits on its platforms to all the sponsors who in turn will be expected to work

the tie.

In the second semifinal, Lobi Stars defeated nineman Rangers 1-0 in Katsina.

Rangers stars, Razak Adegbite and Christian Madu, were sent off during the encounter.

Lobi Stars won the Federation Cup in 2003, when they beat Sharks 2-0.

They also reached the cup final in 2005 and 2012, when they lost 6-5 to Enyimba after the game ended 1-1 and Heartland 21, respectively.

U-23 star Oduduwa dazzles at Ajulo football tourney

N

ATIONAL U-23 defender, Segun Oduduwa’s presence drew a lot of crowd to the venue and every of his moves was greeted with applause by the fans at the maiden Ajulo Football Tourney in Agbado Oke-Odo Local Council of Lagos State.

Oduduwa who featured for his youth team, Fackson FC against lad One Academy in one of the matches showed character and guts as he effectively marshal the defence of his team to put the attack of Lad One under check.

Oduduwa after the game, which he rated so high, said

the game gave him the opportunity to further prepare himself for the task ahead particularly returning to the place where he started from.

Organiser of the tournament, Wahaab Ajulo said Oduduwa’s presence would inspire young players to aim high in their career.

Meanwhile, Victory Academy became the first team to qualify for the quarterfinal after winning their two matches played in the group.

Oduduwa is among the 31 players called up by Coach Samson Siasia for preparations for the 2015 African Games holding in Congo Brazzaville next month.

Akiga launches academy

A

NEW vista has been opened in the area of football academies in Nigeria with the formal launch of the Felix Akiga Football Academy in Makurdi, Benue State courtesy of former Nigerian basketball international, Chief Felix Akiga.

At an impressive ceremony held in Makurdi, the Benue State capital recently, the Benue State governor, Samuel Ortom who was represented by his deputy, Engr. Benson Abounu commended the initiative by Akiga noting that what it means is that Benue State will remain the home of top football stars.

“This is a good initiative that is in line with our campaign promises of creating a conducive environment for our youths and getting them off the streets.

Education and sports is the key to having an excellent and vibrant youth that can hold their own anywhere in the world. It is in line with our electoral promises that we’re identifying with this dream.

“To imagine that this project is coming from basketball player is commendable. We’re therefore donating an expanse of land towards making the project a reality knowing that the benefits will be very rewarding.”

Akiga, the chief executive of Choice Leisure Limited with hotels in Makurdi, Zaria, Abuja, Obudu and Dubai, while shedding light on the project said the academy is to bridge the gap and get players to understand that contracts are not just signed for the sake of it, but must be thoroughly read and understood before putting pen to paper.

“Many Nigerian athletes don’t understand the contracts they sign and those who manage them only exploit them for their personal gains. Sports have become scientific and must be understood as such. Prominent players like Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo don’t just play the way they do; they are calculative in their ball work because they have gone through a structured process,” he stated.

• From left, LMC Chairman and NFF 2nd Vice President, Mallam Shehu Dikko, CEO of the NSE, Oscar Onyeama and NFF President, Amaju Melvin Pinnick

Enyimba back on top

S

IX-TIME champions Enyimba are back on top of the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) after a 1-0 win over champions, Kano Pillars in a Week 24 game yesterday.

Enyimba now set the pace on the league table with 45 points from 24 games, displacing Sunshine who failed to win at Dolphins.

It was coach Mohammed Babaganaru's first loss since he took over Pillars in the second round of the championship.

Ifeanyi George was the match winner as he converted a spot kick in the 28th minute after a Pillars player handled the ball inside 18-yard box.

• Beats Pillars 1-0 Pillars have the first chance at goal through Bala Mohammed, who shot wide from the edge of the box in the fifth minute.

In the 19th minute, goalkeeper Theophilus Afelokhai had to run out of his area to clear a dangerous ball before Peter Onyekachi could pounce on it.

Five minutes later, Kingsley Sokari's effort was deflected for corner by Emmanuel Olowo.

In the 33rd minute, Sokari tested Afelokhai with a free kick.

Flying Eagles defender Zarahadeen Bello debuted for Pillars as he was stoppage time substitute for Eneji Otekpa.

• Murtala Adamu of Kano Pillars against Ifeanyi George of Enyimba during their clash on Wednesday

with their club partners to develop opportunities for mutual benefits”, the LMC Chairman told his audience.

He re-echoed his comments at the recent workshop at the Lagos Business School which drew attention to capital migration from the domestic football league to overseas clubs.

“We have been faced with the contradiction of companies like Chivita making a kill in the market from the huge population of the country and investing it in a club in England while denying our youths here the opportunity of being engage profitably through our league clubs. That product is not known in England and we face the double tragedy of having the contents of their advertisement featuring foreign players being fed to the public and overshadowing our own players”, lamented Dikko.

From the NSE was an expression of interest in the potentials of the NPFL and a promise to leverage on their professional resources and contacts to create a platform for the league body to interface with the corporate leaders.

“The problem of the football sector is that there is not sufficient information available to the business community not just on its operations but also on the existing and potential opportunities and this is where we can work with you to engage the business leaders”, said Mohammed A. Mohammed.

On the strength of this proposition, the NSE promised that the LMC would be given further opportunity to showcase the League to Corporate Nigeria at the CEOs’ dinner in early September.

Pistorius's release put on hold

O

SCAR Pistorius will not be released from prison tomorrow after it was ruled the decision to the move him to house arrest was made ‘too early’.

The former Paralympic champion was due to be released this week after serving 10 months of a five-year sentence for the manslaughter of his girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp.

Yesterday it was revealed South Africa’s Justice Minister was seeking legal advice on whether the parole board was right in its decision to release Pistorius on house arrest tomorrow.

South Africa’s Department of Justice today said Pistorius’s release from prison is to be put on hold and his case must be reviewed again by a parole board because he was approved for house arrest too early into his sentence.

Pistorius should have served 10 months of his sentence in prison before he was considered for release, but instead was approved for release to correctional supervision only eight months into his sentence.

In a statement, the justice department said: “It is apparent therefore that the decision to release him on August 21 2015 was made prematurely on June 5, 2015 when the offender was not eligible to be considered at all.”Mthunzi Mhaga, justice department spokesman, told South African broadcaster eNCA it was uncertain if the board could

meet to consider the athlete’s case again before tomorrow.

He added the decision of the parole board will “have to be suspended”.

• Pistorius

RESULTS Champions League Basel 2 - 2 Maccabi Celtic 3 - 2 Malmoe FF Wien 0 - 1 Shakhtar Skenderbeu 1 - 2 Dinamo Valencia 3 - 1 Monaco England - Championship Bristol 1 - 2 Leeds United Hull City 2 - 1 Fulham Sheffield Wed. 1 - 1 Reading Wolves 2 - 3 QPR Sweden - Cup Tenhults 2 - 0 Mjaellby Husqvarna 2 - 3 Haecken Kri’nstads 1 - 6 Gothenburg Hoellviken 0 - 2 Gelholms AIK 0 - 1 Soedra Norrtaelje 0 - 3 Oerebro Enskede 0 - 4 Sundsvall Eskilsminne 1 - 2 Varbergs

THE NATION THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2015

63

THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2015

L

TRUTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM

ET me start with a clarification. Last week’s installment of this column was not meant to slight or degrade anybody. Far from it. Nor was it meant to be a naked exhibition of crass ingratitude to those men and women who served this country – or got served so well - to the best of their abilities.

Many readers felt I left out some former public officials and their associates, those men and women who played major roles in our lives before the wind of change that tore through the land uprooted them and swept them out of public gaze. My apologies. And now some amendments.

Former President Goodluck Jonathan has not, contrary to predictions, settled down to write his memoirs. Neither has he returned to Otuoke to take up the age-old family business of canoe – building, giving it some presidential touch . Rather, His Excellency has embarked on his long overdue holidays. Not even the crisis that is threatening the Bayelsa State Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) would be a distraction.

The other day he was seen at an airport in Europe admiring a set of twins. Just last week, he flew in style to Kenya with his family in two chartered jets, like a Hollywood star. The way Dr Jonathan leapt off the aircraft, one would have mistaken him for an athlete who is set for a major race.

Gone is the long Niger Delta dress with chains and buttons glittering like a veteran soldier’s medals and the Fedora cap. He was in town to see the games reserves. Now, we have been let into another passion of our former leader – he loves wild animals.

Just before then, Jonathan had paid a secret visit to the Presidential Villa where, according to sources, he asked President Muhammadu Buhari to take it easy with his associates and former ministers. Needless to say, it was learnt, he got a standard reply – that the anti-corruption war was just gathering steam, it would not be a witch-hunt and only the guilty needed to fear. Chikena!

Femi “loud mouth” Olukayode, the one we used to know and address as Femi FaniKayode, has since got off the hook in the money laundering charges slammed on him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). He acknowledged the fact that God’s favour saw him through. In appreciation of this, he changed his name to Olukayode. Now many are asking: what’s in a name? Has the man who lied that Buhari did not go to school and concocted a fake medical report of the then presidential candidate changed?

A few days ago, the former spokesman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Campaign was in the news again – for questioning the paternity of three girls who he was said to have fathered. He, so goes the salacious story, had been asking that the girls from his estranged woman, Yemisi, daughter of a former Lagos judge, should undergo a paternity test.

With the EFCC issue behind him and nobody ready to hire a propagandist now, FaniKayode–Oh! sorry about the slip – Olukayode has enough time to straighten his private affairs, details of which will not be pub-

“B

LESSED is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered”. That is the pithy line from the Psalmist.

It is found in the very first line of Psalm 32.

Behold, there is joy in abundance to be mined from the timeless and regenerative verses of David and his co-authors as contained in that glorious body of Biblical works - the Psalms.

Hardball commends it to those who seek wisdom and understanding. But the line quoted above is particularly instructive for its relevance to the matter at hand today.

Just as it was in the Old Testament pre-Christ era that no man was without sin, so it is today.

Sin abounds today; man does not only live it, he seems to revel in it. Many today go through a lifetime without knowing any scripture or abiding by any moral codes.

They live purely according to their whims

VOL. 10, NO. 3312

TODAY IN THE NATION ‘Of course, as for the well-known PDP stalwarts with links to the power sector who donated billions towards ex-president Jonathan’s failed reelection bid, what is needed is not Senate probe but EFCC inquisition’ JIDE OL UW AJUYIT AN OLUW UWAJUYIT AJUYITAN

COMMENT & DEB ATE EBA

GBENGA OMOTOSO

EDITORIAL NOTEBOOK

gbenga.omotoso@thenationonlineng.net

•Editor of the Year (DAME)

Where are they now? (II)

•Olukayode

•Dr. Okonjo-Iweala

•Orubebe

•Abba Moro

lished here, this being a family newspaper.

But, there is some good news, Olukayode has found love again – he is head over heels with a former beauty queen, Precious Chikwendu. If all goes well, the fourth marriage will soon be consummated.

Little has been heard from Dr Doyin Okupe, the former presidential aide, since the May 29 shellacking. There have been stories of how the medical doctor-turned- politician diverted into property business in Britain–Is he on exile?– The trade, it was said, brought bountiful rewards - initially. Then, our man planned to go for the kill. He shelled out a hefty sum of money – some said everything he had – and it all blew up in his face; a scam. Now, friends and associates are asking the prince to return home.

When he will yield to their plea, nobody knows.

After Elder Peter Godsday Orubebe’s failed attempt to disrupt the collation of the presidential election’s results, he apologised for his disgraceful conduct and left Abuja in utter contriteness. But, against all expectations, his purgatory lasted just a few days.

The former minister returned to his church in Ogbobagbene, Delta State, preaching morals and good conduct. In fact, he was recently at a ceremony in which he admonished the youth to be of good behavior.

Many who heard of the event turned it all into a joke and recalled how Orubebe’s name

became a subject of biting witticisms, a kind of laughing stock, after his encounter with Jega. In one of such jokes, a woman goes to a doctor to complain about her husband’s strange behaviour.

“Woman: Doctor, my husband is acting strange. He has been screaming ‘we will not take this’ all-day.

“Doctor: Hmm…that’s Orubebelysus “Woman: O my God! What’s that? “ Doctor: Calm down. It’s a kind of postelectoral stress-induced psychosomatic disorder, with a low chance of resulting in permanent psychedelic hallucinations. He needs Jegamycin every four years.”

Former Finance Minister Ngozi Okonjo – Iweala , according to sources, has been busy compiling what she believes to be evidence that will exonerate her whenever she is called upon to explain some strange transactions under her watch. She was not just running the Ministry of Finance; she was our firstever Coordinating minister for the Economy, an economy that has now been found to have been shredded by sheer greed and avarice of wicked public officials.

Now we are told that $1.2b was illegally withdrawn from the Excess Crude Account, the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) earned N162b in one year but remitted only N2b to the treasury (no questions, no sanctions) and the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) withheld N3.8tr between 2012 and this year. There are more, including the $6b, allegedly stolen by former ministers and the N109.7b oil firms royalty, which the Department of Petroleum Resources(DPR) did not send to the treasury. Where was the minister?

Musiliu Obanikoro thought being a minister was going to be a life-long job from which retirement could never be contemplated. He spoke like a mafia boss whose fiefdom extended from Benin to Birnin Kebbi and Aladja to Hadejia. Buoyed by a platoon of soldiers, he personally stormed the site of a housing project in Lagos to stop the work.

In Ekiti, he told an army General – General indeed – to follow the election rigging script prepared in Abuja or risk not being promoted. The poor officer – the kind the late songster, Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, called Zombie – succumbed to Obanikoro’s antics and turned into a one-sided war a civilian affair that

should have been a celebration of democracy.

A few days ago, Koro, as his associates call him, was at a birthday party in Lagos.

When his name was announced as one of the guests, many shook their heads – perhaps in pity or admiration or both. One couldn’t really say.

Godswill Akpabio, the former governor of Akwa Ibom State, is now the Senate Minority Leader. Even before the upper chamber begins the very sober work of making laws for the growth of our dear country, it is glaring that we are headed for “an uncommon transformation”, the type that Akwa Ibomites savoured for eight years. Consider this: in just two months, despite passing no bills and going on recess for several days, Senators and House members have shared N12.9b. Just like that.

Where is former Delta State Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan? A source told me the other day that His Excellency was away in London for the Wimbledon tennis fiesta. That immediately brought back memories of the Governors Forum election in which Uduaghan was an umpire or an electoral officer (as seen in the video). He later described his role as that of an agent. Fine.

That election, you will recall, ended in a fiasco when some governors said the man who scored 16 votes had beaten the one who scored 19. Governors then became the subject of beer parlour jokes. There was one in which a father asked his little son: “Which is bigger between 19 and 16?” The son replied: “16”. The dad retorted: “Who told you so?” “ Our governor said so on television,” the boy replied. The dad burst into laughter.

Ex-international soccer star and Jonathan campaigner Joseph Yobo has not been seen in public since the May 29 electoral defeat of his favourite. A source said he was away in Europe on holiday. Another swore that the former Eagles captain remained in Lagos, enjoying his bountiful harvest from the recent political season.

Abba Moro, the former Interior minister who was behind the tragic Immigration jobs scam, was one of the powerful members of the Jonathan cabinet. No fewer than 20 youths whose only offence was that they wanted a job died in that bloody exercise.

Moro, against all expectations, retained his job. Besides, there was no refund of the about N520m collected from the applicants. He asked Nigerians to consider the tragedy an accident. We did just so?

Moro, going by reports, has put it all behind him. He has forgiven those who insisted that he must carry the can for that inhumanity. A few days ago, a grand reception was held in his honour in his hometown of Ugbokolo, Benue State where he gleefully announced that contrary to the rumour in circulation, he was not arrested for allegedly stealing N21b. He said the purveyors of the rumour wanted to tarnish his record as he never held the purse stringThere you have it, reader. A good debate topic: what maketh a good record?

So much for our former men of power.

•For comments, send SMS to 08111813080

•Hardball is not the opinion of the columnist featured above HARDBALL Anti-graft War: IBB’s baccalaureate and caprices often oblivious of the difference between right and wrong. But the holy book recognises that from age to age, man in his frailty, is bound to fail and fall. Thus, man is offered escape and redemption.

What this means is that you could work for your redemption and go through bouts of penitential rigours to atone for sin. Then there is also a select few who enjoy divine favours, whose transgressions are automatically forgiven; whose sins are overlooked and indeed written off like bad debt.

Such is the sunny story of some of our former leaders and ‘statesmen’ in the recent past who managed the affairs of state in such riotous and prodigal manner. Over the years

they have hedged from giving account of their stewardship. At the beginning of the current dispensation, it seemed the chicken would come home to roost this time but somehow they have managed to wriggle out of it and instead, signing on as advisers and confidants of the new government.

But one of them has gone even one step further; he has become an expert on sleaze control and anti-graft wars. He is no other than the inimitable gap-toothed former military president, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, who turned 74 recently. The indefatigable political impresario, whole held Nigeria by the scrotum for eight turbulent years (1985 - 1993)

recently granted interviews rendering a baccalaureate on how to recover stolen funds.

Hear it from the one fondly call IBB: “If he (President Buhari) is resolute, I believe he will achieve some degree of (success in the recovery of) stolen funds.” To abridge a long tale, the IBB years were long, licentious and reckless. It was an era of debasement of not only the system but the very soul of the nation.

That debilitating era was capped by the spiriting away of a $12.3 billion Gulf oil windfall that is yet to be resolved today. On a serious note, if only President Buhari would resolute enough to revisit the $12.3b affair.

And on a final note, the times call for sobriety and comportment; especially from those whose atrocities have been overlooked.

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