August 25, 2014

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•The scene of an accident on the Sagamu-Ore Road...at the weekend

Boko Haram declares ‘Caliphate Republic’ DHQ: Shekau’s claim empty Troops to launch aerial battle

J

UST a few days after it captured a police training facility, the insurgent Boko Haram sect has declared an “Islamic Caliphate”.

The head of the armed group, Abubakar Shekau, proclaimed an “Islamic caliphate” in Gwoza, Borno State in a video obtained by French news agency AFP yesterday.

Gwoza is a big town, which is about one hour thirty minutes by bus to the capital city, Maiduguri.

“Thanks to Allah who gave victory to our brothers in Gwoza”, which is now “part of the Islamic Caliphate”, said Shekau in a video of 52 minutes.

The video purportedly recorded in Gwoza, shows a footage of prisoners being shot while on the floor, lay in a ditch before assault rifles were aimed at their heads.

Besides, fighters are shown storming

?

WHERE ARE THE CHIBOK GIRLS KIDNAPPED ON APRIL 15?

From Yusuf Alli and Gbade Ogunwale, Abuja

the town in tanks, firing sporadically.

Shekau also lauds the leader of the Islamic State, Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, who in late June declared himself “the caliph” and “leader of Muslims everywhere.”

“We will not leave the city. We came to stay,” said Shekau. The leader of Boko Haram has been labelled a “global terrorist” by the United States and a $7 million price was put on his head.

He declared that Gwoza now has “nothing to do with Nigeria”.

“By the grace of Allah, we will not leave the town. We have come to stay,” said Shekau, who has been sanctioned by the UN Security Council.

The United Nations humanitarian

Furore over INEC’s new polling units

By Raymond Mordi, Leke Salaudeen and Ugochukwu Ugoji-Eke, Umuahia

I

T is meant to shorten queues and smoothen elections.

But the allocation of the newly created 30,027 polling units by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for the 2015 election is causing a big row.

The electoral agency last week announced its plan, which will increase the total number of polling units nationwide to 150,000.

The North got 70 per cent of the new units.

Southeast Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leaders cried out yesterday that the region had been shortchanged.

A member of Delta PDP, Col. Joseph Achuzia, described INEC’s decision as illogical.

Continued on page 4

Continued on page 4

Gwoza: The troubled town

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WOZA is a Local Government Area of Borno State. Its headquarters is in the town of Gwoza, a border town about 135 kilometres Southeast ofMaiduguri, the state capital. It has an area of 2,883 km and a population of 276,312, according to the 2006 census.

The terrain is rocky and hilly. There are 11 wards in the largely farming community split between Muslims and ChrisContinued on page 4

•INEC chair Prof. Jega

FIFA U-20 WOMEN W/CUP FINAL •Map of Borno State showing Gwoza

Germany 1 Nigeria 0

•UK FLIES HOME EBOLA PATIENT P3 •CUSTOMS SEIZES MONKEY MEAT TRUCK P6

THE NATION MONDAY, AUGUST 25, 2014

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NEWS

‘By God’s g •From left: Chief Executive Officer, MainOne and patron, Etisalat Board of Innovators, Funke Okpeke; Chief Executive Officer, Etisalat Nigeria, Matthew Willsher and Director, Brands and Communications, Etisalat Nigeria, Enitan Denloye, at the Etisalat Prize for Innovation Judges Dinner in Lagos.

PHOTO:MUYIWA HASSAN

International aid workers say the official Ebola figures — an estimated 2,615 cases and 1,427 deaths in Guinea, Liberia, Nigeria and Sierra Leone — are almost certainly much lower than the real number of infections and deaths, but there is a growing optimism that its end is near, reports The New York Times

• Royal Free Hospital in London, the only centre in the UK equipped to treat Ebola and prevent the disease from spreading

T •Former Minister of Foreign Affairs Mr. Henry Odein Ajumogobia (2nd left), Managing Director/CEO, Nigerian Breweries Plc.,Mr Nicolaas Vervelde (2nd right), Corporate Affairs Adviser ,NB , Mr Kufre Ekanem (right) and Creative Director, Farafina Trust , Chimamanda Adichie during the 2014 Literary Evening in Lagos... at the weekend.

PHOTO: MUYIWA HASSAN

•From left: Chief Technical Officer, Lagos State Safety Commission (LSSC), Mrs. Funto Aina; Deputy Director, Safety Skills Development , Mr. Yinka Adebiyi; Director-General, LSSC, Mrs. Dominga Odebunmi; Training Facilitator, Frica Concept Consulting, Mr. Ayodeji Aluko and Health Safety and Environment Officer, Dangote Agro Sacks, Nwakwuruibe Patience during the one-day Minimum Safety Standard workshop for Manufacturing and Allied Industries in Lagos.

PHOTO: OLUSEGUN RAPHEAL

•From left: Assistant General Manager, Ecobank Plc, Mr. Bolaji Martins, Department of Petroleum Resources’ (DPR) representative, Joseph Odiong, Mr. Obafemi Olawore and General Manager, Sales & Marketing, Mr. Babajide Olufemi at the PHOTO: SOLOMON ADEOLA first Nigeria Lubricant Summit in Lagos.

HE other nurses call her Mummy, and she resembles a field marshal in light brown medical scrubs, charging forward, exhorting nurses to return to duty, inspecting food for patients, doing a dance for once-infected co-workers who live — “nurse survivors,” she called them enthusiastically and barking orders from the head-to-toe suit that protects her from her patients.

In the campaign against the Ebola virus, which is sweeping across parts of West Africa in an epidemic worse than all previous outbreaks of the disease combined, the front line is stitched together by people like Ms. Sellu: doctors and nurses who give their lives to treat patients who will probably die; janitors who clean up lethal pools of vomit and waste so that beleaguered health centers can stay open; drivers who venture into villages overcome by illness to retrieve patients; body handlers charged with the dangerous task of keeping highly infectious corpses from sickening others.

Their sacrifices are evident from the statistics alone. At least 129 health workers have died fighting the disease, according to the World Health Organization. But while many workers have fled, leaving already shaky health systems in shambles, many new recruits have signed up willingly — often for little or no pay, and sometimes giving up their homes, communities and even families in the process.

“If I don’t volunteer, who can do this work?” asked Kandeh Kamara, one of about 20 young men doing one of the dirtiest jobs in the campaign: finding and burying corpses across eastern Sierra Leone.

When the outbreak started months ago, Mr. Kamara, 21, went to the health center in Kailahun and offered to help. When officials there said they could not pay him, he accepted anyway.

“There are no other people to do it, so we decided to do it just to help save our country,” he said of himself and the other young men. They call themselves “the burial boys.”

Doctors without Borders trained them to wear protective equipment and to safely clear out dead bodies potentially infected with Ebola. They travel across backbreaking dirt roads for up to nine hours a day.

Ms. Sellu, who is one of the only Ebola workers at the Kenema hospital who have neither contracted the

virus nor fled.

In doing their jobs the burial boys have become pariahs. Many have been cast out of their communities because of fear that they will bring the virus home with them. Some families refuse to let them return.

After Mr. Kamara started working, his family said, he was no longer welcome in his village. His uncle, the family patriarch, told him never to come back. At first, he stayed with a friend, but the man’s wife was afraid and kicked him out, too. With no pay for months, he sometimes begged on the street after work to get enough money for food. Recently, he talked the owner of a small shop into clearing out enough space in a back room for him to sleep there.

He is finally getting paid, about $6 a day, and he hopes to find a room to rent, probably at an inflated price.

Some of the other burial boys have tried to rent apartments but have been refused.

“If I have a long life, I can go back to my people,” Mr. Kamara said. “I can talk to them: ‘I’m doing this job for you.’ Maybe they can understand me.”

At the government hospital a few hours away in Kenema, photographs of the dead nurses are still plastered on the crumbling walls. Notes to young women suddenly cut down, like Elizabeth Lengie Koroma — “Lengie We All Love U But God Loves U” — offer visual reminders of the pain that remains.

“Today three, tomorrow four — it was just like that, rapid,” Ms. Sellu recalled, her cheery demeanor quickly dropping. “We said, ‘What is happening?’”

She added, “You are asking, ‘Who is next?’ “ In all, some 22 workers at the hospital died.

The nurses and doctors here had banked on their experience treating Lassa fever, another deadly disease that causes bleeding. But Ebola is of a different order, and they had never seen it before.

With the first cases, the nurses simply used their Lassa goggles. Ebola demands a far more protective face shield. They also used “light gloves,” Ms. Sellu said. Now, she puts on two layers of heavy-duty rubber gloves.

The inadequate initial precautions had fatal consequences, even for the revered young doctor who headed

THE NATION MONDAY, AUGUST 25, 2014

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NEWS

’s grace, Ebola Virus’ll end’

•A British charity worker diagnosed with ebola is being airlifted out of Sierra Leone and is expected to be taken to the High Security Infectious Disease Unit

UK flies home national who contracts Ebola in Sierra Leone

A

BRITISH national living in Sierra Leone has tested positive for Ebola, the first Briton to fall victim to the deadly disease that has spread across the West African region since March, the Department of Health said on Saturday.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) estimates that the current Ebola epidemic the world’s worst ever with 1,427 documented deaths - will likely take six to nine months to halt.

Some aid organisations, including medical charity Medecins Sans Frontieres, have warned that the outbreak, which began in Guinea before spreading to Sierra Leone, Liberia and Nigeria, is now out of control.

The WHO conceded on Friday that the hiding of victims and the existence of “shadow zones” where medics cannot go has concealed the true scale of the epidemic.

Britain’s Deputy Chief Medical Officer John Watson confirmed a British national was among those suffering from Ebola and said medical experts were assessing the situation in Sierra Leone to ensure appropriate care was provided.

“The overall risk to the public in the UK continues to be very low,” Watson said in a statement.

No further details about the British national were immediately available, and it was not known whether there were plans to the Lassa unit, Dr. Sheik Umar Khan.

“Such a careful man, always saying, ‘Don’t do this, don’t do that,’ “ Ms. Sellu said. “That is the mystery.”

Dr. Khan died on July 29, a huge blow to the nation.

Ms. Sellu also spoke about the nurses she had lost to Ebola. Usually so keen on projecting strength to her subordinates, she began to cry.

“It has been a nightmare for me,” she said, her features contorting.

“Since the whole thing started, I have cried a lot.” She added: “It came to a time when I was thinking of quitting this job. It was too much for me.”

But the lesson she drew appeared inevitable to her. “You have no options. You have to go and save others,” Ms. Sellu said. “You are seeing your colleagues dying, and you still go and work.”

At the height of the deaths last

evacuate the patient.

Ebola, which is passed on by direct contact with the bodily fluids of infected persons, strikes hardest at healthcare providers and caregivers who work closely with those infected. And dozens of local doctors and nurses have died from the virus in recent months.

Two American aid workers, who contracted Ebola in neighboring Liberia and were then evacuated, recovered from the disease and were released from a hospital in the United States earlier this week.

Fear, stigma and denial have led many families to hide their infected loved ones from health officials. In other instances, patients have been forcibly removed from treatment facilities and isolation centers, creating the risk of the disease’s further spread.

Under-reporting of Ebola cases has been a problem, particularly in Liberia and Sierra Leone, currently the two countries hardest hit by the virus.

Lawmakers in Sierra Leone on Friday voted overwhelmingly in favor of making the harboring of those infected with Ebola a crime carrying a punishment of two years in prison.

“The new regulation will provide for summary trial, meaning trial by a magistrate court alone,” Justice Minister Frank Kargbo told Reuters.

month, her two teenage children and her family in the capital, Freetown, urged her to stop. The remaining nurses at the hospital staged a revolt.

One morning, 40 of them appeared outside the door of her home in Kenema, yelling, “If one of us dies again, prepare yourself to die!”

Frightened, her children warned her. “They have come for you!

Mummy, don’t go there again!’ “She recalled. “And my relations in Freetown were saying, ‘Don’t go there again!’ “ Ms. Sellu disobeyed all of them. “I was sneaking in at the end of the day,” she said.

With precision, she recalled the day the nightmare at the hospital began: May 25. In neighboring Guinea, where the epidemic started, the crisis had appeared, falsely, to be abating. In Kenema, a patient was

As the outbreak has spread across borders from its initial epicenter, governments in the region have introduced increasingly strict travel restrictions.

The government of Ivory Coast announced late on Friday that it had closed its land borders Guinea and Liberia to try to prevent the virus from crossing onto its territory.

Ivory Coast, French-speaking West Africa’s largest economy and the world’s top cocoa producer, had previously imposed a ban on flights to and from Sierra Leone, Liberia and Guinea.

Liberia’s Nimba County, which shares a border with Ivory Coast, has seen the number of Ebola cases balloon in recent weeks.

According to Moses Massaquoi, the head of Ebola case management at Liberia’s health ministry, 65 cases including 25 confirmed patients have now been reported there.

“The number of cases in Nimba has spiked recently and it is now an area of concern,” Massaquoi told Reuters.

The WHO does not recommend travel or trade restrictions for countries affected by Ebola, saying such measures could heighten food and supply shortages. But residents of Ivory Coast’s commercial capital Abidjan voiced support for the government’s decision.

“I don’t think simply closing the border is

bleeding profusely.

“The nurses were curious; they called me,” she said. “Dr. Khan said, ‘Do the test.’ “ It was positive for Ebola.

“The whole hospital went haywire,” Ms. Sellu said. “All the nurses were put into quarantine.”

But it was the second case, in the hospital’s private annex for V.I.P.s, “that put the calamity on us,” she said. The patient was a local chief suffering from severe diarrhea and vomiting. He infected three nurses and a porter. The porter and one nurse died. The dying nurse was pregnant and miscarried, infecting all four nurses who aided in the delivery. All four died.

“There are times when I say, ‘Oh my God, I should have chosen secretarial,’ “ Ms. Sellu said. But her job as a healer, she said, “is the calling

enough. We need to go even further,” said Romaric Kouadio, a laboratory technician.

The Philippines on Saturday ordered 115 soldiers to return home from peacekeeping operations in Liberia due to the outbreak there.

Brussels Airlines, Belgium’s largest carrier, said on Saturday it was cancelling flights to the capitals of Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone for Sunday and Monday due to new restrictions put in place by Senegal’s aviation authority.

The company’s flight to Freetown on Friday was denied permission to land for a crew change at the airport in Senegal’s capital Dakar, and the plane was forced to continue on to Casablanca for an unscheduled landing.

Senegal, West Africa’s humanitarian hub, had announced earlier in the day that it was banning all flights to and from countries affected by Ebola. It also blocked a U.N. aid plane from landing in Dakar.

“We cannot fly like that. It is pretty dangerous,” Paul Delafaille, Brussels Airlines’ country manager in Sierra Leone, told Reuters.

A spokesman for the airline, in which Germany’s Lufthansa owns a 45 percent stake, said it was exploring options that would allow it to resume service to the three countries.

of God.” The Kenema hospital is a different place now. In the last several weeks, with international help, a more rigorous system for screening, filtering and holding Ebola patients has been instituted. Confidence among the nurses has been restored.

Outside the hospital, they continue to face stigma. Some of Ms. Sellu’s staff spoke of husbands abandoning them and neighbours shunning them. One nurse told of returning home to find her belongings in suitcases on the sidewalk, and her spouse warning her to stay away.

Another nurse, seeking lodgings, lied to the landlord, telling him she was a student.

“If you meet with them, they will balance this way and that not to touch you,” said Veronica Tucker, a nurse who survived an Ebola infec-

tion, doing a little jig to demonstrate her experience on the streets of Kenema.

The epidemic goes on. International aid workers say the official figures — an estimated 2,615 cases and 1,427 deaths in Guinea, Liberia, Nigeria and Sierra Leone — are almost certainly much lower than the real number of infections and deaths.

Ms. Sellu finds some reason for optimism, though. She has seen the flood of Ebola patients diminish.

And she and her nurses are no longer alone in the fight.

“Some went, but we stayed,” said a nurse, Nancy Yoko. “We have kept coming. We never left.”

Ms. Sellu then shooed away her visitors, put on her suit and prepared for work.

“By the grace of God, it will end,” she said.

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THE NATION MONDAY, AUGUST 25, 2014

From left: Nasarawa State Governor/Bride’s father, Alhaji Tanko Al-Makura; his Imo State counterpart and chairman of the occasion, Owelle Rochas Okorocha; bride, Maimuna, groom, Moyi MaiDunama; Speaker, House of Representatives, Aminu Tanbuwal and Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi, during a dinner in honour of the Nasarawa State governor’s daughter’s wedding at the International Conference Centre, Abuja... at the weekend.

Furore over INEC’s new polling units

Boko Haram declares ‘Caliphate Republic’ office (OCHA) earlier this month confirmed reports that Gwoza was under rebel control.

Boko Haram has become the second Islamic group to declare a republic after the ISIS, which controls vast swathes of eastern Syrian and northern Iraq. In June, it declared that territory a caliphate, an Islamic State.

Its leader, Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, is referred to as Caliph Ibrahim. He declared himself “leader of Muslims everywhere”.

The Caliphate, where Shia Muslims, Christians and minority sects have been persecuted, massacred or forced to flee, has no international recognition.

Shekau hails al-Baghdadi.

Boko Haram is also believed to be in control of other areas near Gwoza in southern Borno, as well as large swathes of territory in northern Borno and, to a large extent, Buni Yadi in neighbouring Yobe State.

These two states and Adamawa State have been under the state of emergency since

Continued from page 1

We shall overcome, says Shettima

Continued from page 1

I

N his personally written response to enquiry over the reported declaration of Gwoza as an insurgents territory, Borno State Governor Kashim Shettima said last night: “With very due respect, I cannot comment on the authenticity or otherwise of that video in question, I will leave that to security experts. I also cannot disclose measures being adopted by security agencies on whatever development in Gwoza or any part of Borno State but I can assure the good people of Borno State and other members of the public that the State Government is actively in touch and supporting security agencies deployed in Borno State in the counter insurgency efforts and insha Allah, the combined efforts will not be in vain. We are not just studying the situation with collaborative tact and urgency but indeed, appropriate measures are being taken by the right authorities. For now, I urge the good people of Borno State to remain calm and resolute in their support for security agencies, abiding fate and prayers.

The security agencies, I am sure, are in position to analyse the content of the said new video, compare with the facts on ground in Gwoza and brief the Nigerian public as they deem professionally appropriate bearing in mind the national interest and patriotism as well as the overall safety of citizens. Let me use this opportunity, while thanking members of the Nigerian and International media for their firm support for Borno people and its government since this insurgency crisis in 2009, make a strong appeal

May last year.

There are few humanitarian workers on the ground in the northeast, travel is dangerous

that we do not dramatise and sensationalise issues such as the one connected with Gwoza, so that we all do not fall for the objective of insurgents, which is to at all times, claim victory over our sovereign State, our rights to existence, our freedom and our liberty, as it is always their goal to create so much panic that would make anyone who doesn’t share their ideology feel unsafe and defeated.

Even as those of us in the media work tirelessly to disseminate information in the discharge of important duties that aim to protect the fundamental rights of the public to know happenings within and around them, we must at this moment, more than ever before, do our jobs with patriotic support for our country and its security forces as well as our passion for humanity as against those that seek to send humanity into extinction.

As disturbing as what is said to be the development is, I remain very optimistic that victory will never go the way of those that violently stand between fellow human beings and t h e i r d i v i n e rights to exist as G o d ’ s creatures on earth”.

and the region, which has been under a state of emergency since May, last year, has poor Continued on page 56

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From Abdulgafar Alabelewe, Kaduna

The Nation gathered that the incident, which occurred few minutes after 8 pm, sent residents scampering for safety when they heard the gun-

shots.

According to sources in the area, the policeman was shot by the gunmen who trailed him to his house.

A source said: "Nobody knows who they were or where

ing.

Apart from Orji, the meeting was attended by Ebonyi State Governor Martin Elechi, Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu, the Ministers of Labour (Emeka Wogu), Health (Prof.

Onyebuchi Chukwu) and Aviation (Mr. Osita Chidoka) and the five state chairmen of the PDP. PDP National Publicity Secretary Olisa Metuh told reporters that a situation where the southern part of the country is allocated 8,000 polling units and 21,000 to the North is a great disContinued on page 56

Three PDP governors to join APC, says Wamakko

S

OKOTO State Governor Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko yesterday said that three governors from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) are set to join the All Progressive Congress (APC) next month.

Two of the governors to join the opposition are from the North. The other one is from the South, he said.

From Abdulgafar Alabelewe, Kaduna

Wamakko was in Kaduna last night for the APC Northwest caucus meeting to strategise ahead of a zonal rally slated for Sokoto next month.

Wamakko said: “We met here to first and foremost put a functional zonal office and Continued on page 56

Gwoza: The troubled town Continued from page 1

•Shekau

Residents panic as gunmen kill policeman in Kaduna ESIDENTS of Makarfi road in Rigasa, a suburb of Kaduna metropolis, were last night thrown into confusion when suspected gunmen shot dead a policeman .

The Southeast zone also rejected the promotion announced by the Police Service Commission (PSC) and the Inspector General of Police. It alleged that the promotion did not promote unity.

The region spoke after a meeting of some of its governors, some ministers and political leaders at the Government House in Umuahia, the Abia State capital.

Governor Theodore Orji, who is the chair of Southeast Governors’ Forum, hosted the meet-

they came from. Only gunshots were heard and when we checked, we saw the policeman in a pool of his own blood."

Police spokesman Aminu Lawan confirmed the incident.

tians.

The Gwoza Hills, with heights of about 1300m above sea level, provides scenery and is made up of ranges of mountains known as the Mandara Mountains. These mountains form a natural barrier between Nigeria and Cameroon, starting from Pulka. They overlook the game reserves by meandering

towards Mubi and beyond in neighbouring Adamawa State.

Gwoza local government has been called "a notorious hide out for the Boko Haram insurgents, who arrived in the area in 2009 from Maiduguri. The area has suffered considerable violence as a result of the Boko Haram insurgency.

Most telephone masts in Continued on page 56

Adamawa PDP stakeholders push for Central Senatorial District

S

OME Adamawa State stakeholders are making a case for Adamawa Cen-

tral Senatorial Zone to produce the governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party(PDP).

If the proposal is endorsed, 10 aspirants from the Central Senatorial District may have to jostle for the ticket.

From the Central are: Dr. Ahmed Mohammed Modibbo, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, Mr. Markus Gundiri, Mr. Auwal Tukur, ex-Minister Aliyu Idi Hong, Sen. Abubakar Girei, Jerry Kumdisi, Mr. Andrawus Sawa, Mr. James Barka, and Brig.-Gen. Aliyu Kama.

The four aspirants from the North and South are insisting that the party should leave the primaries open to all.

Those from the North are Acting Governor Umaru Fintiri, former Lagos Military Administrator Gen. Buba Marwa; Ahmed Gulak.

A former presidential aide, Dr. Umar Ardo, is the only as-

Acting governor imposes 24-hour curfew on town

A

DAMAWA State Government yesterday imposed a 24-hour curfew on Madagali Local Government Area of the state.

Boko Haram at the weekend attacked the secretariat of the local government.

The government said the curfew followed “volatile security situation”, which caused From Yusuf Alli, Abuja

pirant from the South.

The stakeholders met at the weekend in Yola where a “strong recommendation” was made for the Central Senatorial District because it has never produced the governor of the state.

The meeting was attended by some of the governorship aspirants and PDP leaders from the 21 local governments.

One of the stakeholders said: “Since the creation of the state, Adamawa Central Senatorial District has not produced a governor. So, equity demands that the slot should go to this district.

loss of lives and property in the local government.

A statement by the Deputy Permanent secretary, Security and Special Service, Government House, Ahamdu Baji, said: “Following volatile security situation and attendant loss of lives and property and displacement of people, Adamawa State Government has imposed 24 hours curfew

“We are already appealing to the PDP leadership at the national level to allow power shift to the central.

“If they agree, it means only 10 out of the 14 aspirants will vie for the governorship slot.”

Another PDP leader said: “Our stakeholders have started consultations on how to build consensus on the shift of the governorship to the Central District.

“We have not concluded discussions on this because those from the North and South Senatorial Districts see the option of the Central District as a ploy to eliminate them from the race.

on Madagali Local Government Area.

“The Acting Governor, Ahmadu Fintiri, extends his heartfelt condolence to all those affected and assures that Government will do everything possible to mitigate their hardship. ”The government appeals to the citizens in the area, urging them to cooperate and observe the curfew strictly.”

Fintiri, Marwa and Gulak, who are from the North, and Ardo are insisting on an open contest.

The third source added: “The Northern Senatorial Zone stands out as the highest beneficiary in terms of occupying prestigious political offices, both elective and appointive, among the zones. They produced three governors, Saleh Michika, Boni Haruna and Wilberforce Juta - as well as former Deputy Governor James Ngilari. The Chief of Defence Staff; three former speakers of the House of Assembly(Paul Wampana, Ahmed Gulak and

Ahmadu Fintiri) are all from the Northern zone. ”The acting governor and as two ministers; Boni Haruna and Zainab Maina, are all from the Northern zone.

The Southern Senatorial Zone has produced two governors and a deputy governor. They are Alhaji Bamanga Tukur, Admiral Murtala Nyako and Chief Lynn Nathan.

“Various speakers at the meeting observed that at various times, capable and promising aspirants from the Central Zone were persuaded to shelve their ambition for aspirants from another zone.

”In considering the zoning of the position of the Governor to the Central Zone, it would not be out of place to zone the position of the deputy governor to the Southern Zone in particular to the Ganye Chiefdom that comprises of Toungo, Jada and Ganye,” the source added.

The presence of some executive members in Nyako’s administration in a governorship aspirant’s campaign team at the PDP Secretariat in Yola on Saturday has caused ripples in the state.

Some of the leaders have been trying to persuade the aspirant and others to distance themselves from former Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Aris Kobis; former PDP Chairman Umar Kugama; former PDP Secretary P.P. Elisha and others to prove that change was imminent.

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NEWS ‘Make law to enforce building code’ From Adekunle Jimoh, Ilorin

T

HE Nigeria Institute of Building (NIOB) has urged the Federal Government to promulgate a law to enforce the national building code.

NIOB also advised building professionals to collaborate with their colleagues outside the country to internationalise construction and output.

In a communiqué at the end of its 44th annual general meeting (AGM) in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital, the institute said: “There should also be collaboration in research and development (R and D) activities among the academia in the building profession at home and abroad.”

The communiqué, by NIOB Publicity Secretary, Danjuma Abalaka, added: “Avenues should be created by the professional and regulatory bodies for experienced professional women builders in the industry to mentor the younger ones; employ more female builders in the ministries, higher institutions and agencies as well as patronage of professional women builders by government and professional bodies.

Abalaka said academic institutions should encourage and organise more seminars and workshops to educate members on the necessity and benefits of innovations/innovative practices as well as to foster unity among building professionals.

“Green construction and energy efficiency practices as well as training should be introduced to sustain the environment; professionals in the building industry should put social, environmental and economic sustainability of every project ahead of financial gains, power and compassion and the formation of consortium of experts in the building industry to encourage and improve construction project delivery.”

JUSUN threatens fresh national strike From Tony Akowe, Abuja

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HE Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN) has accused the Federal Government of breaching the agreement it signed with the union which led to the suspension of its strike.

The union threatened to resume the strike without any notice.

In a statement at the weekend in Abuja, JUSUN alleged that the Accountant-General of the Federation and the Forum of Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) commissioners refused to implement the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) it signed with the union.

It said this was the reason it suspended its strike.

JUSUN accused the government of not respecting the provision of the constitution on the financial autonomy of the Judiciary by making it a first-line charge, as directed by the court.

The statement by it National President, Comrade Marwan Mustapha Adamu, said the union summoned an emergency meeting of its National Executive Council (NEC) next Saturday.

It said the meeting would deliberate on the issue and ensure that the rule of law was respected.

The statement said it was unfortunate that despite the MoU by all stakeholders, which led to the suspension of the strike, the government had said it lacked the resources to meet the union’s demand.

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2015: APC decries plan to relaunch acronym battle against party

HE All Progressives Congress (APC) has decried an alleged plan by "unscrupulous and apparently-hired hands" to relaunch the acronym battle against the party.

It alleged that the masterminds were "seeking to register three new parties that bear the acronyms of the same parties that merged to become the APC".

In a statement yesterday in Lagos by its National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, the party said those behind the phantom parties, who are apparently working at the behest of people who have a mortal fear of the APC, have applied to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to register the Allied Council of Nigeria (ACN); Advanced National Patriotic Party (ANPP) and Conservative People's Congress (CPC).

By Olamilekan Andu

It said the fact that the acronyms of the three entities tally with those of the APC component parties - the defunct Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP) and the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) - is not accidental.

According to the party, the registration of the phantom parties is a grand design by those who have been having sleepless nights since the APC was registered.

APC said: "It is worthy of note that the three applications to INEC for the registration of the three organisations as political parties were made on the same day. Apparently, common sense takes flight in the face of great desperation!

"Their plan is simple: Once the

parties are registered, they will then apply to change their logos to those of the original ACN, ANPP and CPC, and then hope to be on the ballot for next year's general elections. Just before the elections, the sponsors of the phantom parties will send out messages that the APC has splintered into its component parties for the purpose of the election.

Whatever happens, their plan is to confuse the electorate and hamper the electoral fortunes of the APC." The party urged INEC not to succumb to the antics of those who are planning to sabotage the 2015 general elections and win elections by subterfuge.

It said: "This acronym battle is a part of the larger war against our party to prevent its registration. Nigerians will recollect that the same people, apparently, ap-

plied to register a phantom APC the moment it became clear that our merger would succeed and INEC would register our party, having met all the requirements to consummate the merger.

"Thankfully, INEC refused to compromise its neutrality and integrity and chose to act in accordance with the law by registering our party.

"We urge the electoral body to do the same now, in the face of unprecedented desperation by those who believe they can only win elections by cutting corners."

APC advised Nigerians to be vigilant as the 2015 elections approach, adding that those coming to terms with the reality that the party is a viable alternative in the country's political firmament will stop at nothing to seek to mar its electoral fortunes.

•From left: Former Chief Executive/Managing Director, Bank of Industry (BoI), Ms Evelyn Oputu; Mrs Kemi Ajumobi, of BussinessDay; Group Managing Director, The Rose of Sharon Group and Chief Executive, Famfa Oil, Mrs Folorunsho Alakija and first female President, Commonwealth Lawyers Association, Mrs Boma Ozobia, at the BusinessDay Conference on InspirPHOTO: NNEKA NWANERI ing Women IV, with the theme: Yes, She Can, in Lagos... yesterday.

Doctors resume work today after 55-day strike

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HE Nigeria Medical Association (NMA) has suspended its strike, after 55 days.

Public sector doctors are to resume work today.

NMA President Dr Lawrence Obembe explained yesterday in Abuja that the suspension followed the association’s emergency delegates’ meeting on Saturday.

He said: “Delegates resolved to suspend the strike in the interest of urgent national emergencies while negotiations continue.

“Consequently, all medical and dental doctors are directed to resume duty with effect from 8am on Monday (today).

“The NMA enjoins all its members to remain calm while negotiations continue.”

The association has called for the withdrawal of the Federal Government’s circular suspending the residency training programme “and the sack of over 16,000 residents doctors, who constitute about 70 per cent of doctors’ in Nigeria”.

It also urged the government to reciprocate its good gesture by ensuring that resident doctors, whose appointments were terminated, are reinstated without any punitive measure.

Obembe listed some of the association’s achievements.

He said: “In the area that deals with clinical governance, we have been able to discuss with government its various circulars. For

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Amosun hails NMA

GUN State Governor Ibikunle Amosun has hailed the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) for calling off its nationwide strike in the interest of the country.

In a statement yesterday in Abeokuta, the state capital, by his Senior Special Assistant on Media, Mrs Olufunmilayo Wakama, the governor noted that the decision was patriotic as the nation battles the outbreak of the dreaded Ebola Virus Disease (EVD).

He said the EVD was becoming an epidemic.

Amosun said: “People should always find amicable ways of resolving crisis. I want to commend the leadership of the NMA for finding a way round the issues that led to the industrial action in the first place.

“I am happy that the strike has been called off at this very crucial time, when the guidance and expertise of our medical personnel are most crucial in containing the Ebola Virus.”

The governor also hailed NMA’s National President, Dr. Kayode Obembe; Senate President David Mark and other well-meaning Nigerians who prevailed on the concerned parties to resolve the strike.

He hoped stakeholders would find a final resolution to perennial industrial disputes as negotiations continued. example, the circular that says only doctors who are ‘registrable’ with the Nigerian Medical Council (NMC) can have the title of a consultant.

“The arrears on relativity will be paid; the government has started paying. Two months’ salary arrears have been paid.

This is the beginning of a redress of injustice which we have been encountering in the last 22 years.

“As we said before, the arrears must be calculated for 22 years.

We just said they should calculate for six months. That shows how patriotic and magnani-

mous the doctors are.

“We have also been able to extract from the government the need to review the hazard allowance. In the face of the Ebola Virus Disease (EVD), hazard allowance was only N5,000 for a doctor. The government has realised that this was indeed an injustice and it also realised that it has to do something about it.

The government assured us that at least 20 or 30 per cent of salary will now go for hazard allowance.”

The NMA president said the association’s demands were

centred on improvement of the structure and tradition of the profession, which deal with clinical governance and redress injustice.

He said a circular had been issued that only doctors whose degrees were registered with the NMC would get the title “consultant”.

Obembe said: “Also, the post of the deputy chairman of the Medical Advisory Committee has been reinstated.

“The government has attended to us that there is no effort to repel or redress the decree establishing the position of chief medical directors (CMDs).

“In the areas of injustice, we have been able to extract from the government that …there is far commitment now that the arrears of relativities will be paid. The government has started paying.”

The NMA president said delegates hailed the Federal Government and the Lagos State government for containing the spread of the Ebola Virus Disease (EVD).

Obembe reiterated the association’s commitment to the health of Nigerians and sustaining the cordial relationship it enjoyed with the Federal Ministry of Health.

He expressed the association’s gratitude to Nigerians for their intervention at resolving the strike.

Nigeria to get new drug control master plan

By Kelvin Osa Okunbor

N

IGERIA will get a new National Drug Control Master Plan (NDCMP) in September.

That is when President Goodluck Jonathan will endorse the final draft, which will soon be sent to the Presidency.

The implementation of the proposed master plan is expected to begin next year and lapse in 2019.

The policy document, which provides a road map for the nation’s anti-narcotic campaign, is a product of elaborate deliberations and consultations among Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC), departments, agencies and experts, led by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

NDLEA Chairman/Chief Executive Ahmadu Giade hailed members of the committee for their diligence.

He called for more support for drug control programmes.

Giade said: “I am pleased with the commitment of the committee members and the rich content of the draft plan.

“The agency shall work with relevant organisations for the full implementation of the plan. We incorporated ministries, organisations and agencies because everyone has a role to play in the control of drugs.”

The NDLEA thanked the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and the European Union (EU) for their technical assistance to Nigeria’s fight against drug production, trafficking and use, including organised crimes.

NDLEA’s Director-General, Mrs. Roli Bode-George, presided over the meeting of senior representatives from 30 ministries, departments and agencies. It ended at the weekend in Lagos.

The meeting tackled the formulation of a master plan that would run for four years, beginning in 2015.

AGF inaugurates panel on assets disposal From Eric Ikhilae, Abuja

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HE Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mohammed Adoke (SAN), has begun moves to dispose of forfeited vehicles and other items the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) recovered from suspected criminals.

The minister, last week in Abuja, inaugurated a committee on the matter. It is headed

by NSCDC Commandant-General Ade Abolurin.

The committee is expected to identify, verify and ascertain the conditions of the items and ensure that they are sold transparently and in accordance with laws.

Adoke directed that the proceeds from the sale of the vehicles be deposited in the Consolidated Revenue Account of the Federation after 30 days without ownership claim by any person on any of the forfeited items.

The minister noted that since the items were forfeited to the Federal Government on court orders, their disposal should begin in earnest to avoid further depreciation in their value.

He said all the items forfeited to the Federal Government through a judicial process are regarded as public property since the proceeds from their disposal are to be paid into the Consolidated Revenue Account of the Federation.

THE NATION MONDAY, AUGUST 25, 2014

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NEWS •From Left: Israeli Ambassador, Amb. Uriel Palti; Chairman, Senate Committee On Aviation, Sen. Hope Uzodimma; Chief of Staff to President Goodluck Jonathan, Brig.-Gen. Jones Arogbofa (rtd.); Executive Secretary, Nigeria Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC), Mr John-Kennedy Opara and Chairman, House Committee on Foreign Affairs, Nnenna Ukeje, at the beginning of the second batch of family pilgrimage to Israel in Abuja...yesterday PHOTO: NAN

2015: We don’t know where we’re going, says Obasanjo F

ORMER President Olusegun Obasanjo yesterday likened the state of the nation to the late Gen. Sani Abacha’s military era, when he said the middle class was wiped out.

But he told visitors to his home in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital, that “tough times don’t last but tough people do”.

The late Gen. Abacha was Nigerian Head of State between 1993 and 1998. He ruled with iron fist, sending many pro-democracy activists into exile.

He jailed the winner of the 1993 presidential election, the late Bashorun Moshood Abiola.

Obasanjo spoke when he hosted a delegation of the Nigerian Market/Traders’ Council, led by its National President, Yeye Osho.

The former President recalled that a recent short messaging service (SMS) he got from a Nigerian requesting for financial assistance showed that the

•Ex-President likens nation’s travails to Abacha’s era

From Ernest Nwokolo, Abeokuta

nation’s middle class was disappearing.

The delegation of about 150 persons, including the Iyalode of Yorubaland, Chief Alaba Lawson, had representatives from the 36 states.

It sought Obasanjo’s elderly counselling on the direction to take in the 2015 general elections.

The former President read the message from his cell phone’s SM inbox to the delegation.

He assured them that Nigerians would survive the hard times, as they did in the past.

Obasanjo said: “As for me, we don’t know where we are going yet, may God show us the way.

The way that will take this country and make it a great country, and when, for me ooo, I understand and (if) I see the way, I will tell you. I pray that God will show me the way. May God show you the way.

“Tough times do not last forever. When tough times come, tough people get going. We will keep going and we will survive this though time.

“I told him (the SMS sender) that we have experienced this period in time of Abacha. All the middle class were completely destroyed.”

The former President said he was surprised that such people could afford even basic necessities befitting their status.

He said: “I was surprised the

day a Colonel in the Army complained to me that he and his family could not afford to buy a car.

“A friend of mine, Dr. Okoro, is a doctor and his wife is also a doctor. They have a daughter, who is also a doctor. Among the three of them, they could not afford a new car. They had to go to Saudi Arabia. I pray we will not have such a time in Nigeria again.

“We all have contributions to make and should not leave our responsibility to others. If we fail to participate in things that are meaningfully positive for this country, you will be a victim and we all become victims.”

Yeye Osho said the council supported Obasanjo during his eight-year administration.

She added: “We had tremendous support from you when you were in government. As such, we deem it necessary, and as a mark of respect, to find out on which direction we are going.”

Ebola: ALGON hails Jonathan for prompt response

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HE Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) hailed President Goodluck Jonthan yesterday for his prompt response to the outbreak of the Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) in Nigeria.

In a statement by its Secretary General, Alhaji Shittu Bamaiyi, the association noted that Federal Government’s prompt response showed its dedication and concern to save lives.

The statement reads: “The Federal Government’s efforts at checkmating the killer disease are not only heart-warming but

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From Gbenga Omokhunu, Abuja

reassuring in protecting the health of Nigerians.

“This measure is gladdening and a thing of pride that the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the international community have applauded the measures taken by Nigeria in protecting the lives of its citizens against the disease.

“ALGON suggests that the Federal Government should ensure that the 774 health centres built across the country are immedi-

ately put to use to serve as centres for the treatment of such ailments.

“ALGON hopes that the Federal Government, under the leadership of Goodluck Jonathan, will sustain the spirit with which it is fighting the killer disease and use the same zeal and determination to tackle the country’s numerous challenges.

“The association implores Nigerians to join hands in tackling issues that threaten our collective interests as a people, irrespective of our political and sectional interests.”

Customs seizes trailer laden with monkey meat

HE Nigeria Custom Service (NCS) has impounded a trailer load of smoked meat suspected to be monkey meat.

It was being imported into the country through the Jibia border in Katsina State.

Monkey is suspected to be one of the major sources of the Ebola Virus Disease (EVD), which has killed five Nigerians and scores in some other West African countries.

The trailer was seized by the

From Tony Akowe, Abuja

Federal Operation Unit "Zone B", led by Assistant Comptroller Gambo Azare.

It was learnt that the meat was destroyed under the supervision of the Comptroller, Federal Operation, Zone B, A. T. S. Maina and Katsina State Deputy Governor, represented by the health commissioner.

Maina said Ebola is a pandemic which requires intensive surveillance at the nation's bor-

ders to curtail, especially foreigners from countries with high EVD prevalence.

The controller said the NCS would increase its surveillance at the borders to safeguard the health of Nigerians.

He urged residents of border communities to assist the NCS with information to track down people who might disobey the law.

Azare told reporters at the site where the seized meat was de-

stroyed that the driver of the trailer conveying the meat ran away.

The controller said the trailer ran into the ditch when its driver attempted to abandon the vehicle.

He also said officials of the National Agency for Food Administration and Control (NAFDAC) advised that the seized meat should be destroyed within 24 hours.

Lagos Airport gets more screening tools on Ebola

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HE United States (U.S) Government has donated equipment worth $5,000 (about N825,000) for the screening of passengers at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Ikeja, Lagos.

The U.S Consul-General in Nigeria, Joff Hawkins, made the donation at the weekend in Lagos.

The envoy expressed satisfaction with Federal Government’s timely response to the contagious disease since it was imported

By Kelvin Osa Okunbor

into the country by a Liberian, the late Patrick Sawyer, a month ago.

He was happy about the measures in place at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Ikeja, Lagos.

Hawkins noted that EVD is neither a Nigerian nor West African problem but a global problem.

The envoy said the donation of the equipment was a symbol of willingness on the part of the

American Government to assist Nigeria in an way possible to combat the scourge.

The equipment are called infrared thermometers or non-contact thermometers.

They are portable equipment which measure body temperature of in-bound and out-bound passengers for possible EVD symptoms from a distance.

At the occasion were: Dr. AlexOkoh, Head of Port Health, Lagos; Dr. Garry Bronette of the Centre for Disease Control (CDC), heads of agencies at the

Lagos Airport, airlines/handling companies representatives, health personnel, airport workers, among others.

Agencies at the airport received kudos for their collaboration since the first case of the virus was reported in Nigeria.

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) was hailed for providing the infrastructure for port health Services and collaborating agencies to effectively discharge their duties in the face of the danger the virus posed to all.

Ebola kills two in DR Congo

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UTHORITIES in the Democratic Republic of Congo said yesterday two people have died from Ebola in the country’s North-West.

They are the first reported Ebola cases outside West Africa since the outbreak there began, although it is not clear if they are directly linked to that outbreak.

So far 1,427 people have died from the virus.

The speed and extent of the outbreak has been “unprecedented”, the World Health Organisation says.

An estimated 2,615 people in West Africa have been infected with Ebola since March.

There is no known cure but some affected people have recovered after being given an experimental drug, ZMapp. However, supplies are now exhausted.

Several people died in the past month after contracting an unidentified fever in the Equateur region of the Democratic Republic of Congo.

UNIPORT VC inaugurates rapid response committee From Bisi Olaniyi, Port Harcourt

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NIVERSITY of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT) Vice Chancellor Prof. Joseph Ajienka has set up a highpowered rapid response committee to prevent the outbreak of the dreaded Ebola Virus Disease (EVD).

The committee members comprises of medical experts and professionals, who will adopt effective enlightenment procedures and global best practices to contain the disease on the campus.

Members of the committee are: Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration), Prof.

Ethelbert Nduka, who will monitor the committee's activities and Professors Kio Abo and Vincent Idemyor, of the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences.

Others are: Dr. Williams Wodi, of the Information Unit in the Vice Chancellor's Office; Dr. Ken Umeadi, of the Health Services Department; Dr. Glory

Amadi, of the Department of Educational Psychology, Guidance and Counselling; Doctors Christian Oriji and Dine Bari Badey, of the Department of Sociology.

At the inauguration yesterday in Port Harcourt, Prof Ajienka said universities, being the factories for knowledge, should also be in the forefront of the fight against epidemics, including EVD. The academic said gathering and disseminating appropriate information on the Ebola virus and its mode of transmission should be left in the hands of people with the requisite expertise.

He urged the members of the committee to devise functional measures to contain the disease and ensure that the rumour mill does not overrun vulnerable members of the university community.

‘Doctors’ sack is a joke’

By Dada Aladelokun, Assistant Editor

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NON-GOVERNMENTAL, humanitarian organisation, the Peoples Problems and Solution (PPS), has said President Goodluck Jonathan’s sack of over 16,000 doctors was a big joke.

In a statement yesterday in Lagos, its National President Dr Wale Omole said: “This is a wrong time to crack such a joke in the history of the world. To the rest of the world, it is ridiculous.

“At this time when the world’s survival is threatened by the Ebola Virus Disease (EVD), all nations depend on their doctors.

They value and treasure them.

The reverse is the case in Nigeria.

The Ebola virus, which is taking the government’s attention, has not killed up to 20 people in Nigeria. But hundreds of common people die everyday because government hospitals are closed down.

“How many people can afford bills at private hospitals? Nige-

rians are dying in hundreds everyday. More people die from doctors’ sack than Boko Haram and Ebola pandemic. Who are the government’s advisers on health?

“Now that the 16,000 doctors are sacked, we hope the advisers will ask the government who to take over the running of the hospitals nationwide.”

The group noted that “there is no sense in that sack,” adding that the Federal Government should compensate the families of those who died as a result of the sack.

It said: “Since all doctors working in the government’s facilities are sacked, we wonder what the Health Minister is still doing in office because he is a doctor in a government facility, who also stands sacked.”

The group urged the government to resolve its differences with the doctors to enable them return to duty.

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THE NATION MONDAY, AUGUST 25, 2014

NEWS Fayemi’s aide, family in road accident

•Oyo State Governor Abiola Ajimobi (second right) being registered at the Community Grammar School, Oluyole Estate, Ward 11 in Ibadan South West Local Government area during the voters’ registration exercise in Ibadan... yesterday.

With him is his wife, Florence (right).

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HE Special Assistant to Ekiti State Governor on Media, Mr. Odunayo Ogunmola and six members of his family were lucky at the weekend– they survived a road accident.

A truck, laden with sand, lost control and came down a slope to hit Ogunmola’s car in which he, his wife and three children were riding.

The incident happened at about 7:10p.m near Deeper Life Camp Ground Road, Ajebamidele area by Bolawole Quartres, AdoEkiti.

It left the vehicle conveying the Ogunmolas - a Passat CL car with registration number, Lagos EKY 614 AR - badly damaged while its occupants sustained injuries.

No life, according to the governor’s aide, was lost.

How I survived plane crash, by Feyi Agagu

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ORMER Ondo State Governor Olusegun Agagu’s son, Feyi, has reflected on the plane crash that nearly took his life almost a year ago, attributing his survival to God. He described his escape from death as a rare miracle for which his family would always be grateful to God. He added: “I am not just lucky; I am a blessed survivor.”

The younger Agagu , who spoke with reporters in Lagos on his traumatic experience, acknowledged that only few could have survived in that moment of uncertainty, tension and anxiety.

Feyi was involved in plane crash in Lagos almost a year ago. The plane was carrying his father’s body to Akure, the

•First Agagu remembrance lecture holds next month Ondo State capital, for a state burial.

He and one of his in-laws survived the crash in which the Commissioner for Home Affairs and Culture, Mr. Deji Falae, the undertaker, Tunji Okunsanya and his son, died.

Feyi said: “Not many could have survived a plane crash.

It is not something you plan or pray for. It takes God’s grace. I cannot say it was because of how I sat in the plane or where I sat.

“I just saw the plane going down. I saw smoke and I passed out. When I opened my eyes in the hospital, I could recollect what happened within seconds. I re-

By Emmanuel Oladesu

membered that the plane was going down.”

Agagu’s younger brother and his Chief of Staff, Femi, said friends and relatives would converge on University of Ibadan (UI), Ibadan for the maiden anniversary lecture in memory of the late governor next month.

Agagu was an alumnus and teacher at the university before he ventured into business and politics.

Femi, who spoke on the life and time of his brother, described him as a great and honest politician who left worthy legacies.

He added: “Agagu was a university teacher, deputy governor, minister of Power and Steel and minister of Aviation. He was the governor of Ondo State. As the deputy governor, he fought for the inclusion of Ondo State on the list of oil-producing states. He constructed many roads and opened up the rural areas of Ilaje. The bridges are still there. He established a university in Ondo South. It is still there till today.

“He initiated the Olokola project and attracted other industrial major concerns. It has been the largest investment-driven concern in sub-

Fake DSS operative returns to Osogbo court Sept 12 T

HE charge of impersonation against a young man, Victor Aladegbolu, will come before an Osogbo Magistrate’s Court for hearing on September 12.

Aladegbolu, 22, was accused of parading himself as an operative of the Department of State Security (DSS) during the last Osun State governorship poll.

The court, last week, ordered that the accused person be remanded in Ilesa prison custody till the adjourned date.

The prosecutor, Mr. Biodun Badiora, told the court that the accused person conspired with others now at large to commit the offence on August 9, 2014 at about 12:00 p.m at City Hall, Ile-Ife. Badiora said the accused person, with others, was caught wearing a T-shirt with an inscription of Police logo in the front and DSS at the back, claiming to be DSS officers.

He was apprehended by police officers.

He alleged that the accused person disrupted the conduct of the August 9 election in IleIfe and its environs.

He said the offence committed by the accused person was contrary to and punishable under Sections 517 and 109 of the Criminal Code Cap

•Ex-Ilesa West council chair arraigned From Adesoji Adeniyi, Osogbo

34, Vol.11 Laws of Osun State, 2003.

Badiora, announcing his appearance, said the state’s Attorney General was taking over the matter from the police to ensure diligent prosecution.

Defence counsel Nnenna Ngwu did not object to the application by the state to take over prosecution.

She said the court had been saved the rigour of stretched trial with the suspect pleading guilty to the two-count charges against him.

The Magistrate, Mr. Olusola Aluko, who rejected the bail application for the suspect, urged defence counsel to apply for bail formally.

He also ordered that the accused person be remanded in prison custody and adjourned the matter Aladegbolu, who was initially held in police custody before the poll, was released and later re-arrested.

Both the state government and the state chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) had before and during the election raised the alarm over

‘

The accused person, with other colleagues, was caught wearing a T-shirt with an inscription of Police logo in the front and DSS at the back, claiming to be DSS officers.

’

the presence of hoodlums impersonating men of the Nigerian Army, the Police, DSS and other security agencies.

The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Prof. Attahiru Jega, last Wednesday, said the election was nearly rigged and condemned the presence of hooded security agents.

Also arraigned by the police was a former Chairman of Ilesa West Local Government, Mr. Ibukun Fadipe, who allegedly attacked APC members.

Fadipe was last Thursday arraigned over a case of attack on some people in Ilesa in 2009.

The former chairman, who appeared before Chief Magistrate A.O. Ijiyode, was accused of assaulting Alhaja Mulikat Odeyemi and others as well as damaging the speakers and engine of Isokun Social Elite Club in Ilesa on May 28, 2009.

The accused pleaded not guilty to the charge.

The defence counsel, Oluwaseun Ajoba, urged the court to dismiss the case as all the complainants who were victims of the assault were in court, saying they had withdrawn the case.

The prosecuting counsel, Promise Akanwa, opposed the move as he said the proper procedure was for the counsel to apply for bail.

After much argument, counsel to the accused pleaded for bail, Fadipe could not jump bail as he was an immediate past council chairman.

Ajoba argued that all the complainants, who were direct victims of the alleged assault, could stand as surety for the accused.

The Chief Magistrate thereafter granted the accused bail in the sum of N500, 000 and two sureties, who must be residents in Ilesa.

Sahara Africa. If it has materialised, there would be no joblessness. He started the projects.

“As the governor, he set up the Fund Allocation Committee made up of the Speaker of the House of Assembly, Finance Commissioner, Head of Service, Secretary to the Government, representative of the Council of Obas, and Chief Judge.

The Commissioner for Finance always briefed the media monthly for four and half years on how the money was being spent. There was due process. It was an era of transparency”.

From Sulaiman Salawudeen, Ado-Ekiti

Ogunmola, in an interaction with reporters, said they had gone to church for a special programme and was returning home when the accident occurred.

He said they were driving behind the truck with registration number Ekiti XA769MUE, belonging to Peace and Unity Tipper Owners’ and Quarry Operator (No 126), when it suddenly stopped mid-motion and started coming down the hill.

Odunayo’s words: “I noticed the truck, a Mercedez Benz product, fully loaded with white sand, suddenly stopped while moving up the hill and started coming down like that, apparently having lost control of its mechanism.

“I started reversing the car, but the truck kept following me. I quickly swerved to a side of the road I guessed was safe enough. But I was wrong.

The truck came down exactly where I packed, hitting the car and sending it, including we occupants, tumbling down.”

The truck driver, Mr. Adegoke Adeyemo, who attributed the accident to break failure, said: “There was nothing I could do at such an instance. I also did not know where the truck went was where they had parked. I just did not see them at all.

“I am the driver of the truck. The vehicle came back when it was faulty. There was nothing I could do. When I wanted to park, I mistakenly went to where they stopped and we hit them.”

Defection: APC urges Mimiko, Ondo Senator to resign •‘Move won’t affect party’ From Damisi Ojo, Akure and Adesoji Adeniyi, Osogbo

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NDO State All Progressives Congress (APC) has urged Governor Olusegun Mimiko and the Senator representing Ondo South, Boluwaji Kunlere, to resign their public offices for reportedly defecting from Labour Party (LP) to Peoples Democratic Party (PDP. APC Publicity Secretary Charles Titiloye, in a statement in Akure yesterday, noted that LP had no internal crisis or division to warrant defection by Mimiko and others to the PDP. He condemned Mimiko for taking the mandate of Ondo State’s people to the PDP without the consent of the electorate in an election.

Titiloye said: “For long, we know that the governor was using LP to deceive the progressive-minded people of Ondo State that he loves the masses when, in fact, Mimiko and all his chieftains are members of the conservative PDP. “Finally, the governor has gone back to his kith and kin in PDP, carrying along his dwindling public credibility to his natural base.”

APC symphatised with members of the state LP, who, according to the party, have now been betrayed and deserted by their “general in the war field.”

The party urged the LP to now wind up its political operation in the country. “Middlemen in APGA should also defect to enable the masses decide between PDP and APC in 2015,” the statement added.

It said APC was ready to welcome defectors from LP and PDP, who were uncomfortable with Mimiko’s defection.

The Osun State LP has said that the proposed exit of Mimiko would not affect the party in anyway.

The state LP Chairman, Timothy Olatunji, who spoke with reporters in Osogbo yesterday, said reports from the national headquarters of the party had not indicated that Mimiko would be dumping LP for PDP. He said: “Osun State chapter of the party would not be affected even if Mimiko tomorrow decides to dump the party.”

He noted that his executive council does not depend on the Ondo State governor to survive.

He said: “If Mimiko had played a pivotal role in canvassing votes for Alhaji Fatai Akinbade in the last governorship poll in Osun State, his exit might have negatively affected us. In the last Osun State governorship election, we solely bore the burden and whatever we achieved as success was made possible by our resolve to make a mark.”

THE NATION MONDAY, AUGUST 25, 2014

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NEWS Ado welcomes Udiroko From Sulaiman Salawudeen, Ado Ekiti

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HE people of Ado-Ekiti, the Ondo State capital, last Saturday celebrated this year’s Udiroko, the traditional “New Year Day” of the people.

It was the finale of a weeklong activities involving rites meant to sanctify the town afresh for its indigenes and residents.

The festival, a yearly event, is usually held inside the sprawling precincts of the Palace of Ewi (the monarch) of the town.

It is a customary event for many dignitaries and residents who normally turn-out in their bests to grace the event.

As early as 11a.m last Saturday, residents and other participants started streaming into the palace in groups of two and more.

By 3p.m, all that could be distinguished as space in the vast and high walled enclosure had been filled to capacity.

Amid intermittent booming of canons were chants of rich Ekiti dialect songs from the now familiar Aluluogo band, including various dance forms and songs.

Prayers and benedictions were copiously offered by the monarch, Oba Adeyemo Adejugbe, Aladesanmi III, for obedient subjects, who took turns to pay homage, kneeling, prostrating, assuming whatever form and shape that lent eloquent reverence to the revered ancestry of the town, as symbolised by the monarch.

People of other tribes also showed appreciation to the traditional ruler.

Ekiti estate to get new roads

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ESIDENTS of State Housing Estate in Ado Ekiti, the state capital, will in a couple of weeks begin to enjoy asphalted motorable roads.

Governor Kayode Fayemi has affirmed that the estate internal roads would be ready for use by October.

The governor spoke during an inspection of some ongoing projects, including the Oba Adejugbe General Hospital and road projects, at the weekend.

He gave an assurance that most of the projects embarked upon by his administration, including the legacy projects would be commissioned for use before the end of his tenure.

Assuring that the internal road network in the Oke Ila Housing Estate would be delivered by next month, Fayemi said the roads were neither provided for the estate during construction nor

did previous administrations consider it a priority.

He said the need to give the people living in the estate a new lease of life informed the decision of his administration to effect the construction of the road alongside current road projects..

“The state housing estate road ordinarily ought to have been delivered as part of the services. When you want to start a new housing estate, it is always better for government or the developer to deliver on the roads the way we have done with the Eyi Yato Housing Estate by giving support to the developers in terms of infrastructure development within the estate.

“That’s not what happened in the case of Oke Ila Housing Estate which has been there for the better part of the existence of Ekiti State,” he said.

•Oba Adejugbe (second right), Governor-elect Ayo Fayose (second left), Pro-Chancellor and Council Chair, University of Jos Chief Don Etiebet (left) and Olori Bosede

Why Lagos is upscaling automated platforms, by Fashola L AGOS State Governor Babatunde Fashola, has explained why his administration was upscaling the integration of the state’s automated processes and platforms.

Fashola spoke at the State Executive Council and Body of Permanent Secretaries’ Retreat at the weekend in Lagos.

The theme of the retreat was, “Upscaling the Processes and Benefits of E-Governance in Lagos State.”

He based the upscaling on his administration’s determination to make it easier for the citizens and residents to benefit from the services being provided by the government.

The governor, in an interview with State House Correspondents at the event, explained that the automation was critical to his administration.

He added that the government was ramping up on some of the aspects it started years back.

•Governor challenges exco members on performance

The governor, who noted that though the administration has a short time left to wind off, urged the state’s executive team to task themselves on how they could surpass their previous achievements.

“We are a team, the purpose of this retreat is to bond, to know one another, appreciate our strength better by highlighting our strong points and see each other’s weaknesses so that the team can win.

Our opponents are aspiring to be where we are. In terms of the abilities here, they cannot give us a run for our money. It would be a disaster for our opponents to take our jobs,” Fashola added.

He praised the state’s Ministry of Health for its efforts, especially concerning combating the Ebola Virus Dis-

ease scourge.

He said despite the twist and turns, all the confirmed and suspected cases that have been recorded have been linked to the index case.

He said the platforms like vehicle registration, number plate registration and tax card issuance have earlier been created, adding that the goal being pursued by his administration currently was the integration of the platforms.

The governor said towards realising this, the administration is keen on implementing and optimising all of the software and hardware that it had acquired while also strengthening the integrity of the state’s database.

“We are just raising the standards, raising self challenging standards in order to improve what we have done.

Oyo blames PDP chieftain for market crisis

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YO State government has accused a leading Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain of coordinating renegades among Temidire Plank Market sellers against the administration.

The government said the aim of the PDP chieftain was to cause disaffection between government and the people.

The Special Adviser on Media to the Governor, Dr. Festus Adedayo, made this known in a statement in reaction to allegation that a government agency dispersed some of the renegades from the market.

The government had acquired the market some years ago and relocated the traders to the Fashade area of the state capital.

But this decision had generated bad blood between it and some members of the market who insisted that they would not move out of the market.

“It is apparent that the said PDP stalwart is doing this for an ulterior motive. He coordinates dissent against government at the market and is their arrowhead. In

fuelling the renegades, he apparently hopes to score cheap political points and paint government in bad light.

“The market construction has been delayed for too long because of this prolonged, fuelled antagonism against government. Government considers the interest of the people first and not the narrow interest of politicians who are sponsoring the dissent,” said the statement.

The government said it

A

had done everything humanly possible to advance the cause of building a befitting market for the people of Temidire but its efforts were frustrated by a cabal, whose actions were fuelled by a political undertone.

It said it had in the last one year met leaders of the market several times, provided an alternative market for the plank sellers at the Fashade village, with all conveniences, including transformers.

Residents get kudos for Aregbesola’s victory

NON-governmental group, Oranmiyan Support Group, has hailed the Osun people for standing behind Governor Rauf Adesoji Aregbesola.

The group also praised the residents “for standing for the truth” in the state’s last governorship election.

Its leader, Mr. Ayo Akinola, spoke during an interaction with reporters in Osogbo, the state capital.

He added that the people demonstrated their political maturity in the face of what he referred to as “intimidation and reckless inducement by reactionary agents who invaded the state with the evil aim of forceful take-over as they did in the past.”

He described the governor as an Ajagungbade (one who goes to war to get enthroned).”

Akinola said: “If you cast your mind back to 2007 gubernatorial election in Osun, it was really a war of sorts between him and the then governor, who was fraudulently declared as winner in a massively rigged election.”

We review what we have done before to see how well it is working and how the citizens are reacting to it and how it can be improved upon”, he stressed.

While charging the participants during the retreat to strengthen their capacity to review every action and policy that has been embarked upon, the governor said if the team wants to succeed, there is a compelling need to review every step and action it has taken with a view to achieve sustained improvements.

His words: “We must strengthen the capacity to review everything that we do and every action that we take, we must measure, we must monitor and that is the way we would see whether the solutions we proffered are working or not.”

Ogoga of Ikere-dies at 85 From Sulaiman Salawudeen, Ado-Ekiti

A FIRST class monarch in Ekiti State, the Ogoga of Ikere-Ekiti has Oba Adegoke Adegboye, joined his ancestors.

The monarch died last Friday after a brief illness.

He was 85, according to his son, Prince Adesoji Adegboye.

The late Oba Adegboye ruled for 43 years, having been installed on August 22, 1971.

Before his installation, he was an accountant with the Nigeria Police Force (NPF).

The monarch, who hailed from Akayejo Dynasty, one of the three ruling houses in the town, was the longest reigning traditional ruler in Ikere-Ekiti.

Prince Adegboye described him as a peacelover, who devoted a lot of his attention to the town’s development.

Prince Adegboye, a Chief Magistrate at the Ekiti State Ministry of Justice, noted that his father served the town with all his wealth and strength.

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THE NATION MONDAY, AUGUST 25, 2014

NEWS

Police shut MASSOB headquarters

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HE police in Imo State took over yesterday Okwe community, the country home of the leader of the Movement for the Actualisation of the Sovereign State of Biafra (MASSOB), Chief Ralph Uwazuruike and sealed the administrative headquarters of the group.

They also destroyed Biafran flags and dismantled the road blocks mounted by MASSOB commanders.

Police spokesman Andrew Enwerem said the measure

•Launch manhunt for Uwazuruike From Okodili Ndidi, Owerri

was taken to restore peace and prevent killings.

He said: “The police are not inviting Uwazuruike as a suspect, but he is being invited to explain how people were killed in his home. His refusal to appear can mean he has complicity in the incident.”

Enwerem said Uwazuruike was not above the law. He wondered why the

MOSSOB leader would run to the court when the matter involved murder.

Said he: “What we are talking about is murder. He must explain what happened in his home, which led to the death of four people. We are not saying he is behind the killing, but he must tell the police what happened. Uwazuruike is not above the law.

The court cannot stop him from being interrogated.

“The police will arrest him. He can run but he cannot hide.”

Despite a court order restraining it from arresting Uwazuruike, the police command vowed to bring him to book for the death of MASSOB members killed last week at its headquarters at Okwe in Onuimo Local Government.

The police last Wednesday invited the MOSSOB leader to explain his involvement in the fracas.

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SGF endorses foundation

HE Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator Pius Anyim Pius, at the weekend received Princess Modupe Ozolua, the founder of Body Enhancement Foundation and her entourage during a visit to his office.

At the event, a short documentary of the NGO’s activities was shown and the SGF hailed the organisation and pledged his personal support.

He urged corporations, government bodies and individuals to support the foundation, promising to use his resources to help the foundation.

‘Multiple taxation killing firms’ From Jide Orintunsin, Minna

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HE Niger State Coalition of Businesses and Professional Association (NICOBPA) has identified multiple taxation as the bane of the growth of small and medium enterprises (SME).

The chairman of the association, Alhaji Abdullahi Sadiq, who spoke in Minna at the weekend, attributed it to the relocation of industries to other West African countries with friendly taxation regime.

He said the association liaised with the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), the Niger State Board of Internal Revenue, local governments and tax consultants to find a solution to the problem.

Sadiq said the quest for economic development would be threatened if multiple taxation was not addressed by the three tiers of government and the organised business sector.

He added that the revival of local industries would create jobs for the youths, reduce crimes and generate revenue for socio-economic development.

The NICOBPA chairman said the association was committed to ensuring a healthy environment for businesses to thrive and to avoid cross border crime and crisis with the neigbouring states, such as Kogi, Kwara, Kebbi, Kaduna and the Federal Capital (FCT), to attract investors to the state.

Stakeholders back ex-commissioner for governor

T •A trailer that crushed a eight-year-old girl to death and destroyed a vehicle at Kawo new extension, Kaduna...yesterday.

PHOTO: ABDULGAFAR ALABELEWE

‘Rescue Mission restoring hope, confidence in Imo’

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MO State Deputy Governor Prince Eze Madumere has said the Rescue Mission is restoring hope and confidence of the indigenes.

He said: “The story of what happened at the bank of Oramiriukwa is better experienced than imagined. It is a pathetic tale of a one-time river of life that almost turned into a river of death. River Oramiriukwa serves as the natural boundary between Ngor Okpala Local Government and Owerri West and

Owerri North. The river has been of great economic importance to Owerri North and Ngor Okpala, particularly Obibi-Ezena and Imeriegwe.

“It is a source of drinking water and other pecuniary purposes for the people. Farmers depend on the river for washing and processing of their farm produce, while the communities around the area also bank on the river for fishing.

“Oramiriukwa River did not begin and end in Ngor

Okpala and its neighbouring Owerri North, but links River State and other areas, thereby making its economic importance even more manifest.

Oramiriukwa had a bridge across it, which was said to have been built in the colonial era. The bridge, which later collapsed, created an evergreen and robust socio-economic and political interaction among the communities in Imo State and its neighbouring states, such as Rivers and Abia states. This worthy relationship occasioned by socio-

economic activities was bonded by the regional market called Orie Obibi at Obibi-Ezena.”

The deputy governor at the weekend visited the area to ensure the rebuilding of the bridge began with the adjoining road network to re-link the neighbouring villages and towns The traditional ruler of Imerienwe autonomous community, Eze Andrew Njoku, hailed Governor Rochas Okorocha and Prince Madumere, for their vision and determination to develop the state.

Senator calls for Akunyili’s immortalisation

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LAWMAKER, Senator Annie Okonkwo, has urged Anambra State government to work with the Federal Government to immortalise Prof. Dora Akunyili.

Okonkwo, who recalled

that Mrs. Akunyili was one of his brilliant and hard working constituents during his sojourn at the Senate, said: “It is sad that our inspirational Dora, whose achievements at the National Agency for Food, Drug Ad-

ministration and Control (NAFDAC) boosted the image of the country, succumbed to death when her services were needed.”

The lawmaker, who spoke through his special adviser, Mr. Collins Steve

Ugwu, said: “Dora’s public service, commitment and contributions to national growth would be difficult to surpass.

“I enjoin the state and federal governments to immortalise her. She deserved it.”

Imo elders to Jonathan: call PDP chieftains to order

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LDERS in Imo State have urged President Goodluck Jonathan to intervene in the breach of security in the state by personnel of the Presidency and chieftains of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

According to the Imo State Council of Elders (IMSCE), personnel in the Presidency and PDP chieftains displayed disregard for constituted authority by their unrestrained use of siren and motorbike outriders.

The elders urged President Jonathan to intervene, “as the general elections are approaching.”

They enjoined him to prevail on the Independent National Electoral Commission

From: Dele Anofi, Abuja

(INEC) to declare the 2011 results of five wards in Oguta Local Government.

The group spoke in a statement by its Chairman and a former Deputy DirectorGeneral, State Security Service (SSS), Prince Okey Njemanze.

Njemanze, who said although security agencies maintained peace, added that danger was looming, following alleged security breaches by PDP politicians.

Besides the use of siren and outriders, the elders cited alleged attack on Governor Rochas Okorocha during the funeral of Justice Chukwudifu Oputa.

They alleged that suspected

thugs loyal to the PDP candidate in the Oguta election attacked the governor’s convoy, pulled down the outrider and disarmed a policeman.

“If this lawlessness persists, as electioneering nears, there may be bloodbath among the aides loyal to political gladiators in the state,” Njemanze said.

The elders decried INEC’s refusal to declare the result of the 2011 House of Assembly election in five of the 198 wards in Oguta, won by the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA).

According to the group’s chairman, INEC’s refusal to declare the results has left the area unrepresented in the Assembly for three years.

HE elders, concerned Bekwarra youths and other stakeholders in Bekwarra community have endorsed Cross River State Commissioner for Works, Mr. Legor Idagbor, for governor, ahead of the 2015 general elections.

Declaring their support for his aspiration at Abuochiche, the headquarters of Bekwarra Local Government, they said their endorsement was based on his antecedents and track records as two-time chairman of Bekwarra Local Government from 2007 to 2011.

Speaking on behalf of the elders and stakeholders, Mr. Linus Etalong Adie, a lawyer, said: “Having carefully watched his performance in office and his developmental strides and innovations as the chairman of Bekwarra Local Government from 2007 to 2011, from where he was made the Commissioner for Works by Governor Liyel Imoke, we have no doubt that he is the right and best material for the governorship.”

He went on: “As a grassroots politician and son of the late judge of the state, Justice Ochikiri Idagbor, he will bring about equity, justice and fairness in the conduct of the affairs of the state. That he was made Commissioner for Works by Governor Imoke speaks of the confidence the governor has in him.”

Vehicle owners get ultimatum

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HE Lagos State Police Command has warned owners of abandoned vehicles parked at Ojo Division and Itire Police Stations to remove them or lose them to members of the public through auction two weeks after this publication.

The vehicles are Honda Accord Saloon car BY 653 FKJ, Volkswagen Faragon Bus FST 885 XH , Toyota Camry LX559EKY, Volkswagen Golf XJ 734 AKR and Audi 80 AX 501 KJA.

Kingdom celebration

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HIS year’s kingdom celebration, the annual international convention of the Vineyard Christian Ministries, is expected to be the best in the more than 26 years of the church.

Delegates and friends of the ministry from around the world will converge on the international headquarters of the church at 34/36, Osolo Way, off Murtala Mohammed International Airport Road, Ajao Estate, Isolo, Lagos for a week-long event, which will start from today till Sunday, at 5:30pm daily. Morning sessions will hold from Tuesday to Friday, starting from 9am.

The theme of this year’s edition is: ‘Contend for the Faith’

Council reiterates commitment to quality seedling From Tayo Johnson, Ibadan

T •Dr. Jonathan

The body faulted the Presidency’s silence on the status of a delegate to the National Conference, Eze Cletus Ilomuanya, who despite being dethroned as the Chairman of the Imo Council of Traditional Rulers, paraded himself as a delegate to the National Conference.

HE Acting Director- General of the National Agricultural Seed Council (NASC), Dr Phillip Olusegun Ojo, has said his administration hopes to leave a legacy to ensure that every farmer plants good quality seed. He spoke at the weekend at the first official tour of Ibadan, the headquarters of the Southwest zone.

The NASC boss said the country produced the best seed in West Africa and they hoped to increase the quality.

He said although the industry was under-funded, there would be a massive repositioning. Ojo said his administration hoped to procure more vehicles to aid mobilisation among the workers.

“We know the importance of vehicles in mobilisation. It is not possible to use a public transport for mobilisation.”

He assured the workers that his administration would collaborate with the Civil Defence to ensure safety. Ojo enjoined the workers to be security-conscious and put on their identity cards. He urged them to challenge any stranger on the premises because of the insecurity in the country. The NASC boss hailed the efforts of the Southwest region workers and advised them to adhere to the oath of secrecy to prevent danger.

Present at the event were the Director of the Southwest zone, Mr. Adebayo Agboola, the Director of Finance and Administration, Dr Ezekiel Omotosho, Mr. Bojuwon Lamidi and the workers in the Southwest.

THE NATION MONDAY, AUGUST 25, 2014

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CITYBEATS

CITYBEATS LINE: 08023247888

Three held for alleged cultism, attempted murder

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HREE persons have been arrested by operatives of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), Lagos Police Command for alleged cultism and attempted murder.

Abimbola Oginni, Bode Samuel and Sampson Oseni were arrested by the Superintendent Abba Kyari - led operatives after a manhunt.

Oginni and Samuel were alleged to have shot at one, Ibrahim, on Popoola Street in Bariga, Lagos Mainland, with a locally made pistol on Oseni’s orders.

Police investigations showed that the gun was one of the four bought by Oseni with which his group, Eiye confraternity, terrorises the area.

The suspects reportedly said they attacked Ibrahim because he belongs to another group, Aiye, which always fight their members.

Oseni, 30, who hails from Ijebu in Ogun State and lives at 1/3, Animasaun Close, Somolu-Bariga, said he was a property agent before his arrest, adding: “I was arrested at Somolu as a result

•The suspects ... yesterday

By Jude Isiguzo

of cultism. I belong to Eiye cult. I gave Oginni and Samuel money to purchase a gun. They used the gun for cult fight. I am a commander in the cult. I asked them to kill the guy called Ibrahim who belongs to Aiye cult. I did that because as a commander, I was informed that

Ibrahim’s group came to attack our members. I instructed them to go for a reprisal. I joined the cult in 2011.

“We have two guns. I gave them N20,000 for the two guns, but I did not know where they bought the guns from. They just collected the money from me and the attack was carried out in early

June. I feel so bad that police arrested me for not only being a member of secret cult, but for trying to assassinate somebody. I will quit cult if I get out of this problem.”

Oginni, 26, a cobbler, who lives at 3, Olaleye Street, Somolu and a native of Ilesa in Osun State, said: “I am married with two children.

Police arrested me because I

am a cult member. I belong to Eiye confraternity. I joined the cult this year. I fought with Aiye cult members.

Our commander (Sampson) asked us to kill Ibrahim.

Oseni threatened me to join the cult. I feel so bad that police arrested me for cultism and an attempt to kill somebody.”

Ondo State-born Samuel (25), who lives at 6, Ayoade Street, Somolu, said he sells male clothes at the Yaba market. “I was arrested for cult activities. I belong to Eiye, which I joined this year during a burial ceremony at Ijebu-Ode. We have four guns in our group, which Oseni provided. I have not killed anybody before.”

Oginni was the first to be arrested by the operatives of the Somolu Police Division after which he was transferred to SARS. Following his statement, Assistant Inspector-General of Police in Charge of Zone 2 comprising Lagos and Ogun State commands Umar Manko, mandated Kyari to go after other members of the cult.

Police urged to fish out monarch’s attackers

By Basirat Braimah

•Adekanye

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HE police have been urged to fish out the perpetrators of last Tuesday’s attack on the palace of the Oloto of Oto, Lagos Mainland, Oba Ganiyu Odesanya.

The Chairman of Lagos Mainland Council, Oladele Adekanye, said the attack was unfortunate because the monarch is one of the pillars of his administration.

“I was shocked to the marrow when I learnt of the attack on the palace of the revered Kabiyesi. I was saddened by the incident. He did not deserve it by reason of his contribution to the peace and development that our domain has been witnessing. He has remained a dependable father of all. So, whoever did that to him must be dealt with in accordance with the laws of our

land,” he said.

He urged parents and guardians to monitor their children, even as he called on community, religious and other leaders to step up efforts at keeping the youths in check.

Besides engaging about 1,000 jobless youths, Adekanye said the council also holds regular meetings with them to ensure peaceful co-existence.

He lamented the youth unrest across the state and beyond, saying it is the fallout of the prevailing socioeconomic problems.

“We put many of them in one committee or the order to carry them along in our

service delivery to the people and cushion the effect of unemployment in my council area. We did that having realised the fact that youth restiveness is a direct off-shoot of the current socio-economic malaise rattling the land,” Adekanye said.

“My administration has never shirked its responsibility of creating stability in my domain by replicating the responsive leadership being offered at the state level by our indefatigable governor in line with the people-centred principle of our great party, the All Progressives Congress (APC). We have rehabili-

tated many roads and sustained the culture of environmental sanity. We built and equipped the Public Health Centre (PHC) at Oto and made others functional.

“At the inception of every session, we give our a dozen free notebooks to each of the pupils in all our primary schools. With all these and many others, we have oiled the wheel of harmony among our people. As we keep empowering the youth with our limited resources, we also empower adults, especially traders across all political party affiliations because we are serving the people generally and not only APC members,” he added.

Residents to Fashola: fix our road

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ESIDENTS of Ijagemo community in Iba Local Council Development Area (LCDA) of Lagos State have urged Governor Babatunde Fashola to make good his promise to improve their lot.

Among others, they are asking the administration to fix the road leading to the community, which they claimed, “is now being plied with canoes.”

The residents said they had complained to the council, adding that the worsening condition of the road is affecting their economic activities.

One of the community’s leaders, Alhaji Adio Ajakaye, told The Nation: “I am a native of this community and the road has been

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HE Rotary Club of Isolo, District 9110 Nigeria, in conjunction with Babalola Peace Foundation, has launched an awareness campaign on the Ebola Virus Disease (EVD).

The campaign was part of activities to welcome the District Governor of Rotary, District 9110 Nigeria, Dr Bamidele Balogun, when he visited the club.

An Ophthalmologist, Dr Fatai Oluyadi said the campaign was to increase aware-

By Akintola Mustapha

like that since the days of my grandfather. Besides the bad road, we once groped in the dark for two years. Fashola must extend his good governance to our area.”

Another resident, Mr Tunde Balogun, corroborated Ajakaye, saying: “It is very stressful when going out and coming into the community. I have been living here since nine years now; the road has always been used for campaign by politicians, only to forget us after the elections.”

Mrs. Sherifat Adeoye, a trader, said most of them are scared of the roads and now carry their loads on

their heads to and from their houses.

A motorcyclist, who identified himself as Monsuru, said he, like others, had been spending more money on repairing his bike daily because of the bad road.

Alhaji Taiwo Akintola, another elder in the community, expressed concerns over the plight of school children and the aged, noting that the problem was caused by an abandoned canal in the area.

A source said Fashola had inspected the road, adding: “I am sure that plans are afoot to work on the road because I learnt that our chairman has been on the state government’s neck.”

•The road ... last week

Rotary moves against Ebola Virus

By Olatunde Odebiyi

ness on the measures to prevent the spread of the virus and let people know that the disease will become history if the measures are observed.

He urged people to continue with the hygienic measures of washing their hands, frequent use of sanitisers, avoiding bush

meat and touching or washing of the dead, among others.

Caregivers, he said, should protect themselves by wearing masks, gloves and goggles where they come in contact with people who may have Ebola.

“The health institutions have to be meticulous about accessing a patient, even before the patient enters the

hospital. The government also needs to provide facilities to handle the few cases that we have,” he said.

Oluyadi identified some of the symptoms of Ebola as fever, sore throat, muscle pains, headaches, vomiting, loss of appetite, and bleeding from the mouth or intestine.

He advised people to avoid going to crowded environ-

ments where people may have the disease, avoid contact with body fluids, sweat, saliva, semen and blood of infested persons both living and dead.

The President, Rotarian Adegoke Adeoye, said besides the campaign on Ebola, the club distributed 2000 pamphlets on precautions of its outbreak; dewormed children in the area and commissioned drinkable and disease-free water project at Aye

Defiled girl seeks to shoot suspect

By Jude Isiguzo

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OLICEMEN attached to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Yaba, Lagos Mainland, were stunned last Friday when a fiveyear-old girl allegedly defiled by a 22-year-old man demanded a gun to kill him.

The victim asked one of the investigating police officers (IPOs) to give her his gun so that she would shoot the suspect and end the case, adding that he was not fit to live among human beings.

The incident occurred after the suspect, simply identified as Okafor, was arrested and brought to face the complaint during interrogation.

Police investigation showed that the victim was with her trader-mother when Okafor called her to accompany him somewhere.

He was said to have taken the victim into an uncompleted building in Dansa area of Badagry, forcefully raped her, dragged her on the floor and left her with bruises.

Sources said the girl bled so much that her parents queried her before she opened up.

Church holds revival

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HE Melototah Church of Zion in conjunction with its affiliate pastors in Britain and Europe will today begin a seven-day revival service. The programme with the theme: “Fear not” will end on Sunday.

The event will hold at the church’s auditorium at 18/20, Ikale Street, Papa-Ajao, Mushin in Lagos by 5.30 pm daily, featuring prayers, counseling and soul-lifting ministrations.

The event’s coordinator, Pastor Benson Molato Ikuesan, said: “The one-week revival service is primarily to win souls for Christ and awaken the spiritual consciousness of believers. No doubt, these are perilous times; there is the need for the faithful to be vigilant and be equipped with the spiritual wherewithal to remain winners through the rest of the year. We are confident that attendees will not return home the same way.”

He said he would be joined at the event by other ministers of God including London-based Pastor Wole Akinjinrin.

Bus stop, Isolo, to improve on resident’s health and prevent all other forms of diseases.

“In our quest to help humanity, the club also graduated and gave certificate to about 12 teachers which it has trained and donated a wheel chair to a disabled cobler, Mr Adelabu in Isolo,” he said.

Balogun said Rotary cares about the people, adding that the club’s activities were a symbol of what Rotary does. The club, he said, had done well.

THE NATION MONDAY, AUGUST 25, 2014

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CITYBEATS R Residents allege attack by ESIDENTS Maba Inland in Ikorodu, Lagos, have accused officials of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) of violating their rights.

It was alleged that an attempt was made on the life of NSCDC CommandantGeneral Dr Ade Abolurin on the Island last Friday during a tour by his committee constituted by the AttorneyGeneral to access disposable and forfeited items.

An unindentified police officer was said to have attempted to open fire on Abolurin and over 200 members of his committee who came to arrest some disposable forfeited items.

The residents alleged that the NSCDC operatives, who raided the area in search of vandals broke into their homes and destroyed their properties.

When The Nation visited the community on Saturday, the residents, who claimed that there was no confrontation between the police and the civil defence operatives, said some of them were attacked during the raid.

A petty trader simply identified as Taye said: “I was in my shop when they arrived, shooting; they dragged me, our guest and my husband outside and forced us to sit on the floor. I tried to beg them but they kept beating us, alleging that we were vandals. They threatened to take me and my entire family to Abuja as criminals. It was when I told them that I am a member of the Oodua People’s Congress (OPC)

Reporter loses wife

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R Uyoatta Eshiet of The Nation has lost his wife, Mary, a Chartered Accountant. She died on August 1, at a specialist hospital in Port Harcourt, Rivers State Capital. She was 39.

The family of Pastor and Mrs Emah Eshiet of Afia Nsit Udua Nko, Nsit Ibom Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, described her death as painful.

Her burial service, a statement said, would hold at the St. Matthias African Church, Afia Nsit Udua Nko Parish, on Friday at the Emah Eshiet’s family compound, Afia Nsit Udua Nko. Eshiet, who described her as a virtuous woman, said she is survived by her children: Daniel, Precious and David; a brother, Mr Ubong Michael Evans and two sisters, Mrs Uduak Christopher and Mrs Aniebiet Iboro Inyang.

•The late Mrs Eshiet

CITYBEATS LINE: 08023247888

Civil Defence officials

By Jude Isiguzo

that they allowed my husband to bring out his identity card. It was a female among them that pleaded that they should let us go, following which they released us. I thank God that I was not killed.”

Another resident, Timilehin Adebayo, said: “I was sleeping when the Civil Defence men arrived. I was woken up by banging on my door. I shouted that they should hold on as I was naked. Before I could pick a dress, they broke into my room and met me naked.

They still ransacked the house looking for any empty gallon.”

Okoro Ejiofor, who said no fewer than 20 civil defence men stormed their compound, said: “They smashed my window in the name of searching for vandals and destroyed my properties.

Can they go to Arepo and invade people’s houses like they did to ours? They simply felt that the poor cannot challenge them.”

An Islamic cleric, Alhaji Tajudeen Ogunse, who condemned the invation, swore that there was no crisis between the police and operatives of the NSCDC. “The truth is that the community suffered in the hands of NSCDC. It was not a peaceful visit. Maybe, the Com-

mandant General did not know what happened. He should go round and see how his men destroyed our properties including a church,” he said.

Chief Isiaka Ejalonibu, an eyewitness, who expressed relief that no one was killed, said: “It was a reign of terror in this area. Everyone ran into their houses for fear of being killed by stray bullet.

I got to know that there was something wrong when I heard gun shots and everyone ran into the house.”

Force spokesperson, Emmanuel Ojukwu, a Deputy Commissioner (DCP), said the allegation was being investigated.

•Taye

•Ejalonibu

•Ogunse

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THE NATION MONDAY AUGUST 25, 2014

NEWS Communities threaten to shut five Agip oil wells From Mike Odiegwu, Yenagoa

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OMMUNITIES in Biseni, Bayelsa State, threatened yesterday to shut five oil wells belonging to the Nigerian Agip Oil Company (NAOC).

They said unless the state government prevails on NAOC to meet their obligations, the oil wells would be shut.

The communities earlier closed the five oil wells, following Agip’s “failure” to fulfill what they called community development obligations.

The oil wells - 3,6,8,11 and 12 - were reopened on August 5 after a meeting between the communities’ representatives and Agip officials.

The Secretary of Egbebiri II, Chief Solomon Ogiama, said NAOC officials failed to implement the agreements reached at the meeting.

He said: “We are appealing to the government to wade into this so that we will not have to disrupt oil production, which has a direct bearing on revenue accruable to the state.

“Agip officials pledged to pay off outstanding debts to surveillance contractors once the wells were reopened, but nothing has happened.

“Considering the timeframe they gave us during the meeting at their Port Harcourt office, they ought to have done a lot. We were assured that in a few days, they would pay contractors who were owed for up to one year.

“The community leadership conveyed resolutions at the meeting to our people and now pressure is mounting on us. We urge the government to intervene.”

NAOC Media Relations Office Manager in Eni Mr. Filipo Cotalini said the firm was probing the people’s complaints.

NDDC’s medical mission ends

Uduaghan, Oritsejafor advise on proper child training

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ELTA State Governor E m m a n u e l Uduaghan and Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) President Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor have urged parents to pay attention to the upbringing of their children.

They said the failure of parents to inculcate good values in their children was responsible for many societal ills.

Uduaghan and Pastor Oritsejafor spoke at the weekend in Warri at the 90th birthday thanksgiving service for Justice Silvanus Ajuyah, father of the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Charles Ajuyah (SAN).

Uduaghan said: “I urge parents to bring up their children in a way that when they leave you, people can give positive testimonies about them. In life, three things are important: God first, your family second and your work third. Don’t let your work

•Judge turns 90

overshadow your family; don’t be too busy that you have no time for your family.

“It is true that most of the criminals we see today are people who have challenges at home. Such deviant children, in the long run, harm and hurt their parents.”

The governor hailed Justice Ajuyah for instilling discipline in his children, adding: “You can know the character of a man or a woman through his children. I have noticed three things about Justice Ajuyah’s children: discipline, serious mindedness and thoroughness. His children portray the discipline that was imbibed in them by their parents. You can see the importance of upbringing in his children.

“Charles reflects the virtues of hard work, thorough-

ness and punctuality of his father. I have a feeling that the children, in all their endeavours, see their parents watching them. They are propelled to be dedicated and disciplined.”

Pastor Orisejafor said Justice Ajuyah and his wife played a significant role in his upbringing, describing the celebrator as “my pride and that of so many people”.

The CAN President said parents must play a major role in the moulding of their children, lamenting that this God-assigned role has been neglected by many, resulting in the increasing number of criminals in the society.

The officiating minister, Ven. Best Agbolayah, described Justice Ajuyah as “integrity, punctuality and dedication personified”, urging people to build lasting legacies.

•Uduaghan One of the celebrator’s sons, Lawrence; former Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) President Thompson Okpoko and others, in their remarks, described Justice Ajuyah as “a man of integrity, hard work, dedication, thoroughness and forthrightness”.

•Akwa Ibom State Governor Godswill Akpabio singing during the House of Assembly’s thanksgiving service at the Methodist Church in Uyo...yesterday.

‘I’m still in Delta governorship race’

‘25-yr-old’s death sad’

From Okungbowa Aiwerie, Asaba

From Osemwengie Ogbemudia, Benin

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ORMER Delta State House of Assembly Speaker Victor Ochei has denied dropping out of the governorship race.

In a telephone interview yesterday, Ochei said he was determined to clinch the Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP’s) governorship ticket.

Ochei, who is on a tour of the 25 local government areas to drum up support for his ambition, said: “I am in the race. My removal as Speaker did not dampen my moral as far as the quest for the governorship ticket of my party, the PDP, is concerned. I am meeting with my supporters and political leaders across the state. I have what it takes to govern the state. I never dropped out as was being speculated when I was removed as Speaker. I am strongly running for the governorship.”

Ex-militants intervene in Dickson, Ogunboss feud

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ORMER militant leaders have raised a committee to resolve the dispute between Bayelsa State Governor Seriake Dickson and one of them, Mr. Eris Paul, popularly called Ogunboss.

Ogunboss accused Dickson of working against President Goodluck Jonathan’s reelection ambition.

He sent an open letter to the President, highlighting the governor’s alleged moves to scuttle his campaign.

From Mike Odiegwu, Yenagoa

Dickson said the exmilitant leader was angry because his administration’s intolerance of criminality ran him out of business.

Worried by the development, ex-militant leaders, under the aegis of the Leadership for Peace and Cultural Development Initiative (LPCDI), held an emergency meeting at the weekend in Yenagoa, the state capital.

After the meeting, LPCDI Chairman Pastor Reuben said the group raised a fiveman committee to reconcile the governor and Ogunboss.

He said it was wrong of Ogunboss to have used their forum to write the President, adding that the ex-militant leader would be persuaded to embrace peace.

Reuben urged former militant leaders to beware of Abuja-based politicians, “who are only interested in creating confusion in the state”.

He said former militant leaders had resolved not to be used by politicians in the forthcoming elections, adding: “We don’t want Ogunboss to have a problem with Dickson.

We supported the governor and we cannot turn our backs on him now.”

Reuben hailed the governor for appointing five ex-militant leaders as members of the 11man committee set up to fight insecurity on the waterways.

He pledged their support for the president and the governor.

‘No Akwa Ibom land will be ceded to Ijaw Oil Rivers state’

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HE people of Akwa Ibom State are not opposed to the creation of Oil Rivers or any other state for Ijaw people, a group, Frontline Akwa Ibom Movement, said yesterday.

But the group said it would not allow an inch of Akwa Ibom land to be excised.

It said it would employ ev-

THE seven-day free medical mission of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) in Andoni Local Government Area of Rivers State ended at the weekend.

Doctors defied their strike and joined the programme organised by NDDC in conjunction with Golspin Health Care Foundation at Asarama Health Centre.

NDDC’s Head of Corporate Services Ibitoye Abosede and leader of the medical team Prof. Adelayo Ejele hailed doctors who volunteered their services, adding: “The common saying is that health is wealth, but for us in this health mission, health is better than wealth.”

Ejele said 1,479 cases were treated, including 21 surgeries, 108 dental cases and 365 laboratory investigations. He said 156 patients were screened for HIV/AIDS and two tested positive.

“Fortunately, Ebola is not here yet and we pray it nevers get here,” he added.

NDDC’s chief executive officer, who was represented by Chief Ephraim Etete-Owoh, Rivers State representative on the commission’s Governing Board, said the agency was determined to improve the communities.

He urged the people to always cooperate with contractors to ensure prompt completion of projects.

Speaking for Asarama community, Chief Appolus Ewaye thanked NDDC and the doctors for the programme.

The free health mission has been taken to several communities in the nine states of the Niger Delta in the last one month.

From Kazeem Ibrahym, Uyo

ery legal means to resist any attempt by any group, such as the Ijaw Youths Council (IYC), to “blackmail” Akwa Ibom leaders.

In a statement by its President, Ibanga Isine, and Secretary Anietie Akpan, the group said proponents of an Oil Rivers state did not consult the

people they intend to bring into the new state, but indulged in “blackmail and endless cries of neglect”.

It said: “We, therefore, warn the IYC and Ijaw third columnists to stop misappropriating the goodwill of the Niger Delta people towards President Goodluck Jonathan and other respected Ijaw leaders.

“The Niger Delta is made up of homogenous people with deep cultural and ancestral ties and nobody or group should attempt to live in a false fantasy that the region belongs to them.

“We are prepared to defend the land, resources and people of Akwa Ibom State against annexationist groups and interest, and nobody should test our

will.

“IYC should concern itself with the multi-billion Amnesty Fund it has cornered as an Ijaw patrimony and leave Akwa Ibom and its people alone.

Those whose kernels were cracked for them by benevolent spirits should not forget to be humble. A word to the wise is enough.”

EDO State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development Mrs. Blessing Maigida has described as “unfortunate” the death of a physicallychallenged man, simply identified as Danjuma (25), whose lifeless body was found last Wednesday in front of his uncle’s home at 12, Oza Street, Benin City.

Mrs. Maigida said her ministry took care of the late Danjuma for several months after he was dumped at a dump site by his uncle, Mr Friday Arase, and aunt, Madam Josephine, who lives at Ugbiyoko in Benin.

She said her ministry and security agents reconciled the deceased with Madam Josephine, who accepted him following a promise that the ministry would assist her in caring for him.

The commissioner dismissed rumours that Project Charilove, an organisation that caters for children with special needs, offered to take custody of the late Danjuma, adding that, the organisation does not cater for adults.

She said Madam Josephine would be arrested, if the police ascertain that she dumped her nephew on the street.

THE NATION MONDAY, AUGUST 25, 2014

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COMMENTARY EDITORIALS

FROM OTHER LANDS

A shot in the arm

• But the N220b MSME fund initiative ‘ll succeed only if past pitfalls are avoided

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N an economy where venture capital is perennially in short supply, and when available, is never really accessible to a sector regarded as critical in the nation’s growth matrix, the N220 billion Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Development Fund, an initiative of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), could not have come at a better time.

Launched by President Goodluck Jonathan in Abuja last week, the fund seeks primarily to boost funding to this critical sector.

Under the guidelines of the fund, each state of the federation will be able to access N2 billion, to be administered to beneficiaries at an interest rate of nine per cent. Sixty per cent of the fund is said to be earmarked for women in order to address their peculiar financial exclusion circumstances; another two per cent is reserved for economically active physically challenged entrepreneurs.

In all, 50 per cent, according to CBN Governor Godwin Emefiele, will go to Small and Medium Enterprises, while 9.75 per cent will be used for capacity building for prospective entrepreneurs.

Ten states have reportedly signed Memoranda of Understanding with the CBN to access the fund. These are Delta, Akwa Ibom, Osun, Oyo, Bayelsa, Gombe, Zamfara, Enugu, Ondo and Benue.

It must be said that the beauty of the latest initiative isn’t necessarily because it is anything new, but in the possibility that it will profit from similar initiatives in the past which failed. After all, we have had, before now, all manner of micro-

credit schemes ostensibly designed to give succour to the informal sector. The challenge is to understand why previous well-meaning efforts failed.

A lot has been said of how some beneficiaries in the past treated such funds as freebies –their proverbial share of the national cake – with no obligation to repay. Capacity issues which reflect not only in the poor understanding of the environment for doing business, but in the businesses’ failures to undertake the elementary tsask of book-keeping, have equally been highlighted – aside the twin issues of non-responsive bureaucracy and corruption.

The bigger part of the story however, must be seen in the hostile, if not impossible economic terrain in which small and medium scale businesses have only a fleeting chance of survival. Clearly, nothing has changed in any significant sense, at least as far as the environment for doing business is concerned. Not only has the challenge of infrastructure endured, there has been little progress in terms of getting SMEs adopt best practices so vital to accessing credit. There is also the issue of inadequate skills pool from which the prospective entrepreneurs can hope to draw upon.

These challenges, though not insurmountable, remain impregnable. The latest initiative will do well to have these challenges at the background.

Having said that, the N220 billion can make a lot of difference, in direct terms and also by way of multipliers to the economy. We cannot agree more with the

perspective of the trade and investment minister, Olusegun Aganga, when he noted that only eight percent of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises in the country have access to financing despite accounting for about half of Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). No doubt, the sector deserves more than a shot in the arm.

As for the proposal to set 9.75 per cent of the funds aside for capacity building for prospective entrepreneurs, we see it as an important step forward. We can only add that the Federal Government complement this by fast-tracking the pace of development of critical infrastructure without which the businesses stand no chance of being competitive.

Shorn of the typical tardiness and graft as we have seen of other initiatives, this one might just make a difference.

‘It must be said that the beauty of the latest initiative isn’t necessarily because it is anything new, but in the possibility that it will profit from similar initiatives in the past which failed. After all, we have had, before now, all manner of micro-credit schemes ostensibly designed to give succour to the informal sector. The challenge is to understand why previous well-meaning efforts failed’

Fraud by bankers •CBN, other stakeholders must provide solutions to online scams by insiders

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HE Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Bankers Committee need to urgently find the strategy to combat the growing number of online frauds perpetrated in banks across the country. That should be with the support of the criminal justice officials. For, it is disheartening that the emergence of technology in our banking sector, with variety of lofty innovations, has exposed customers to heart-rending losses running into several billions of naira yearly.

This is despite the advantages of introducing biometrics into the banking process, which represent unique data of individuals that cannot be replicated by another. The crisis in our banking is made worse because fraudulent officials with access to the banks and customers’ vital personal data have become veritable

‘To stem this tide, all stakeholders should combine their various competences and capacities to deal with the crisis.

The banks on their part need to employ more robust technologies, with capacities to deal with our peculiar challenges ... On the part of the criminal justice system, there is need to train the police investigative units to acquire competence in forensic investigation of these types of fraud ...’

agents for the burgeoning syndicated frauds.

The commonest of the frauds include wire transfers of money in customers’ account, using supposedly secure personal data and controls supplied by the bank officials. In such instances, the personal information data of the customer is traded among the gang members, enabling strange transactions on customers’ accounts, while the bank turns back to insist that the customers were careless with their data.

Other forms of fraud include unlawful deductions from customers’ accounts, in form of one nebulous charge or penalty by the fraudsters, which is passed off as regular bank charges, to unsuspecting customers. In some other instances, the officials steal the customers’ money in small quantities, especially where the account has been dormant for long, or where the customer has died. Of course there are several other varieties of these bank frauds.

To stem this tide, all stakeholders should combine their various competences and capacities to deal with the crisis. The banks on their part need to employ more robust technologies, with capacities to deal with our peculiar challenges. This will require better training for the staff to administer the innovative technologies, greater efficiency and transparency by bank inspectorate and audit units; and of course insurance to compensate customers who become victims.

On the part of the criminal justice system, there is need to train the police investigative units to acquire competence

in forensic investigation of these types of fraud and even to organise sting operations to weed out staff members with the predilection for such fraud. The judicial officials also need to be specially trained for speedy trial of the offenders. It is also important for stakeholders to plug the loopholes in our evidence laws, some of which predate these innovative technologies. There is also the need for increased customer sensitisation and awareness campaigns, to stem the number of potential victims.

It is heartwarming that the CBN and the Bankers Committee are already apprehensive of these challenges, and are addressing them. As acknowledged by the chief information security officer of the apex bank, Taiwo Longe, “when the confidentiality, integrity and availability of data is impacted, security is said to have been breached. There are various threats to information security.

Some are very dangerous and disruptive, others are just nuisances”.

While acknowledging the challenges and the efforts of the banks to contain the threats, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Access Bank Plc, Mr. Herbert Wigwe, affirmed that “online frauds in the banks are connected to biometrics. All frauds will end up in some accounts; so if you have details of the person that post that account, that is the biometric details, it will be easy to basically track or determine the culprit within the overall system”.

On our part, we urge quicker and more stringent efforts by the stakeholders.

On Ukraine, any bargain is a bad bargain

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ASTERN UKRAINE remains a violent caldron as Ukrainian soldiers shell proRussian separatists in the cities of Donetsk and Luhansk. It appears that Ukraine’s forces are making headway, while the separatists seem to have lost ground.

There’s a sense that the crisis may be at a turning point. German Chancellor Angela Merkel is to visit Ukraine on Sunday and, on Aug. 26, Presidents Vladimir Putin of Russia and Petro Poroshenko of Ukraine will meet in Minsk, Belarus, to discuss the conflict.

With so many innocent civilians caught up in lethal combat, it is tempting to look for a cease-fire or some kind of time out that would lead to a period of diplomatic negotiation.

But what would a pause and diplomacy accomplish? Any negotiations that leave this blight festering in Ukraine must be avoided.

The only acceptable solution is for Mr. Putin’s aggression to be reversed.

Aggression is the right word. Although the separatists may not be wearing Russian military insignia, no one should be under any illusions: This was a rebellion with roots in Moscow. After seizing Crimea, Mr. Putin set a wildfire ablaze in eastern Ukraine in order to meddle and control. Mr. Putin’s approach has been terribly sly, from the “little green men” who took over Crimea without noticeable military insignia, to the “uprising” in eastern Ukraine of separatist fighters who just suddenly happened to possess anti-aircraft missiles. Mark Galeotti of New York University wrote recently in Foreign Policy that Mr. Putin has demonstrated in Ukraine a method of fighting with his military intelligence service that is “a mix of stealth, deniability, subversion, and surgical violence.” We would add: outrageous lies and propaganda.

The answer to these tactics is not to compromise and legitimatize them. Any discussion that leads to a shred of success for Mr. Putin’s nonlinear war would encourage the use of such tactics again. Mr. Putin must be shown that it does not work and that the West has the fortitude to block his subterfuge.

A second reason to push back is to deny Mr. Putin the benefits of an unresolved dispute. If Mr. Putin can keep the battle for Donetsk simmering, he can keep Ukraine off balance and under his thumb. It would hurt Ukraine’s chances for integration with Europe, which Mr. Putin wants to spoil. The Kremlin leader may also be calculating that the United States and its allies will lose interest and leave him free rein. No cease-fire or diplomatic bargaining should be contemplated that would effectively freeze this conflict in place, creating another Abkhazia or Trans-Dniester.

If conflict in the east is prolonged, even in a low-key fashion, it could poison Ukraine’s future and once again threaten its fragile stability. That would be a win for Mr. Putin and a loss for everyone else.

– Washington Post

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

• Executive Director (Finance & Administration) Ade Odunewu

•Deputy Editor Lawal Ogienagbon

•Advert Manager Robinson Osirike

•Deputy Editor (News) Adeniyi Adesina

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

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•Deputy Editor (Nation’s Capital) •Press Manager Yomi Odunuga Udensi Chikaodi •Group Political Editor Emmanuel Oladesu •Legal Counsel John Unachukwu •Group Business Editor Simeon Ebulu • Manager (Admin) Folake Adeoye •Group Sports Editor Ade Ojeikere •Acting Manager (sales) •Editorial Page Editor Olaribigbe Bello Sanya Oni

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THE NATION MONDAY, AUGUST 25, 2014

CARTOON & LETTERS

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IR: Our attention has been drawn to sponsored insinuations, most especially in the social media, stating that the administration of Governor Babatunde Fashola, SAN has concluded plans to review the Road Traffic Law 2012, especially the aspect concerning the restriction of commercial motorcyclists from plying major highways and bridges in the Centre of Excellence.

This is far from the truth. This administration does not have the intention to reverse itself on this important issue now or in the immediate future. The reason is simple. By enacting the Law of 2012, we have made considerable gains in discharging the primary responsibility of government to our people in the area of protection for life and property.

We would like to further state for the records that the decision to regulate the use of commercial motorcycles on our highways was not a unilateral decision but a response to popular demands by members of the public who have been at the receiving end in their daily interactions with the okada operators.

Altogether, there are 9,100 roads in Lagos State. Motorcycles below 200cc are restricted on only 475 of these roads, which represents 5.6%

EDITOR’S MAIL BAG SEND TYPEWRITTEN, DOUBLE SPACED AND SIGNED CONTRIBUTIONS, LETTERS AND REJOINDERS OF NOT MORE THAN 800 WORDS TO THE EDITOR, THE NATION, 27B, FATAI ATERE ROAD, MATORI, LAGOS. E-mail: views@thenationonlineng.net

No plan to review Lagos Road Traffic Law of roads in Lagos. The result and impact of this decision have been tremendous. Prior to the enactment of the law, we were recording an average of 16 motorcycle-related deaths across the State every month and an average of 646 injured patients from motorcycle related serious accidents at states secondary and tertiary hospitals. As at March this year, our statistics show only 1 to 2 motorcycle-related deaths and less than 100 motorcycle accident related injuries in a month. No doubt, we have all thereasons to thump our chest that we have been responsive and responsible in the discharge of our duty to the people of Lagos.

We know where this misinformation is coming from, and the objective it is meant to achieve. We will say it for the umpteenth time, contrary to what they say, ours is the only government that has given

recognition to the use of motorcycle as a means of commercial transportation through the instrument of the law and regulations meant to protect the riders and the generality of the citizenry. We are very much aware that in some jurisdictions controlled by the sponsors of this malicious propaganda, they have, through the instrumentality of raw power, banned outright the use of motorcycles.

The reason and motive of the sponsors of this unpopular agenda is obviously to set the stage for roguish conduct in the 2015 election. Their action is not altruistic but sinister. Their subtle and malicious campaign is to aid their sinister plots of fomenting trouble and snatching ballot boxes with the use of Okadas during the forthcoming General Election. Such evil plans will have no place in Lagos.

We wish to thank the general

public for their concern over this issue, most especially the law-abiding Okada riders who appreciate that we are more concerned with their safety and well-being than those who are trying to incite them against the law. We will continue to strive alongside all our citizens to always ensure the safety of our people – Okada riders and other members of the general public, and we are confident of collectively building a safe, secured and prosperous society.

We encourage our Okada riders to go about their lawful duty by obeying all the provisions of the traffic law, especially those that restrict them from certain roads, those that compel them to always wear crash elements, not ride with more than one passenger, not carry a child below the age of 12, not carry a pregnant woman or a passenger who is also bearing a load on his

Mobile healthcare services is the way to go

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IR: With the launch of mobile healthcare service delivery in Lagos last month by MTN and the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), which was facilitated by Salt & Einstein MTS, I knew that something massive and good was coming the way of Nigerians in the area of healthcare delivery system via the mobile phone. Nigerians have enjoyed the luxury and the basic needs of mobile phones since the inception of Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) in 2001, but they have not enjoyed using the mobile phones to access healthcare services from qualified hospitals and doctors. This is what Salt & Einstein MTS intends to achieve when it created a single platform that

brought together, MTN and NHIS to provide healthcare services to millions of Nigerians connected to telecoms network.

Health is wealth and most times people die with their ill-health either as a result of ignorance or poverty. The initiative brings service providers in the health sector, especially the HMOs and the telecoms service providers, on a single online platform that is accessible to all Nigerians. With their mobile phones, Nigerians could communicate with any HMO of their choice and get the best medical service at affordable cost. This initiative is new in Nigeria and it is not limited to telecoms operators and NHIS. It is open to all service providers

from different sectors of the economy, using a single platform to provide services to Nigerians.

Apart from healthcare service delivery, the platform could also be used to provide other social services like the cashless initiative.

In an economy like Nigeria, where over 70 per cent of cash flow is in the informal sector, there is need to develop a business model that will address the issue.

If we truly want to be successful as a nation, and integrate the informal sector with the formal sector, then we need to create models that will positively touch the lives of people.

Having realized the need for a single platform that will accommodate several service providers,

Salt & Einstein MTS decided to come up with a business model that can accommodate industry multiple solutions that should connect the common man. What they did was to look at the entire value chain to come up with business solutions model that will address every sector, comprising the regulator, the players and the various ecosystems. The initiative, no doubt, will give Nigerians access to affordable and innovative healthcare programmes, via the mobile phone, and at the same time place the country on the same pedestal with countries adjudged to have universal healthcare delivery system.

• Jude Okafor, Ojodu, Lagos.

head while riding, etc. All these are obviously for the safety of all. They should also not ride against the traffic (one way) or run red light for the overall safety of all road users.

All incidents of wrongful arrest or oppression by law enforcement agencies should be promptly reported, individually or through Union Executives, to the Attorney General’s Office or Office of the Public Defender for prompt action.

The duty of a responsible government is to protect life and property, and this we shall continue to do through the Road Traffic Law 2012.

•Lateef Raji, Special Adviser on Information & Strategy, Alausa Lagos

Rescuing our girls from Boko Haram

IR: It will be grand delusion on the part of President Jonathan and his advisers to imagine that after leaving (I almost wrote abandoned) these young girls in the custody of their captors for over four whole months, they can be rescued by any means other than by negotiating with the insurgents. One is not suggesting a swap of the girls for insurgents, as some are mooting. No. However,the only way we can rescue all the girls alive is by engaging the insurgents in dialogue.

The government will insist that they lay down their arms and return all the girls safely and in return they will be be granted an amnesty the way the late President Yar’Adua did to the Niger Delta militants.

We also need to consider whatever other conditions they might come up with. This is the only safe thing to do in my own view.

It will be foolhardy to imagine the girls can be safely rescued by the use of force. We have left matters till too late.

• Abiodun Sopitan Oregun, Ikeja-Lagos

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THE NATION MONDAY, AUGUST 25, 2014

COMMENTS

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OD is my father Nature is my mother The Universe is my way Eternity is my Kingdom Immortality is my Life The Mind is my house Truth is my worship Love is my Law Form is my manifestation Conscience is my guide Peace is my shelter Experience is my school Obstacle is my lesson Difficulty is my stimulant Joy is my hymn Pain is my warning Work is my blessing Light is my realisation Friend is my companion Adversary is my instructor Neighbour is my brother Struggle is my opportunity Future Time is my promise Equilibrium is my attitude Order is my path Beauty is my Ideal Perfection is my Destiny For years, these lines greeted anyone who arrived on Frank Olusola Macaulay’s doorstep at Yaba, Lagos. The first-person expressions, which had the quality of affirmations, were unattributed. The paper on which they were typed was framed and the compelling communication hung on the wall near the door. It provided a memorable insight into Macaulay’s make-up.

Inside the house, various thought-provoking messages enjoyed visibility. Even the lavatory had space for a message.

Using the toilet meant the user would see this: “Lesser minds discuss people. Ordinary minds discuss events. Great minds discuss ideas. Greater minds discuss humanity.”

Macaulay often said, “Life is interesting, and we are here to learn.” Learning, for him, included but transcended the material world. He was a lifelong truth-seeker and Godseeker, and his spiritual training and practice took him

One year of fatherlessness

an unmistakable stress on the word “today”. That was his way of highlighting the reality of a new day, different from past days, filled with fresh possibilities. The greeting carried a spiritual import, saying to the recipient that the new day brought new grace, new hope, new strength, and new ideas, which could spark a new song and new joy. This unshakable conviction about the constant flux, conveyed through his emphasis on “today”, is a positive lesson for the living.

He was born in Lagos in 1929, and his grandfather, Frank Gurney Venn Macaulay, was the younger brother of Herbert Macaulay, the illustrious Nigerian nationalist. His great grandfather was Rev. Thomas Babington Macaulay, founder and first principal of the CMS Grammar School, Lagos, the oldest secondary school in Nigeria, started in 1859; and his great grandmother, Abigail Macaulay, was the daughter of Rt. Rev. Samuel Ajayi Crowther, the acclaimed first African Bishop of the Church of England, and the first to translate the Bible into Yoruba.

This family background inspired Macaulay throughout his lifetime. He was proud of his roots and heritage without being pompous. His sense of family was instructive, and he was passionate about the Crowther/Macaulay Descendants’ Union and its motto, “In Unity we stand, divided we fall.” He served enthusiastically and energetically as Secretary of the group for many years, and technically retained the position until his exit. He was always aware of the location of family members and their contact details, and was generally relied upon to play a linking role whenever there was a need for family gathering.

I remember him every now and again; and sometimes the irreversibility of his passing is paralysing. This was the man who shaped my writing life, even if perhaps innocently. He provided a stimulating home for informal learning and made it easy for his household and even outsiders to keep abreast of the news by consistently ensuring a supply of newspapers and magazines. He also kept a useful library. In my secondary school years, I looked forward to a good number of western comics and educational publications every Friday. My father never failed to deliver. This was in addition to supplying all the major newspapers of the period, courtesy of his position in Shell’s Public and Government Affairs department. It was at Shell that he bloomed and he retired after 30 years at the company. As a Shell pensioner, he was a keen unofficial ambassador and projected a positive image of the company.

He knew when to raise the game; and by the time I completed my secondary education, he introduced Time and Newsweek to me. In these two respected international magazines, I met inspiring writers and saw stirring styles.

Till today, the Time celebration of writing in a long-running advertisement remains one of my favourite quotations. The magazine quoted John Sheffield: “Of all those arts in which the wise excel, Nature’s chief masterpiece is writing well.”

My tears may not be visible, but I am still crying. I lost a gem. I wonder about genetic continuity and how much of his genetic material is active in me.

‘I remember him every now and again; and sometimes the irreversibility of his passing is paralysing... My tears may not be visible, but I am still crying.

I lost a gem. I wonder about genetic continuity and how much of his genetic material is active in me’

beyond the formal and rigid structures of organised religion.

He regarded every man and woman as a brother or sister with whom he shared a common humanity, and was a loyal friend to those he bonded with.

“He profits most who serves best” is another of his deeplyheld beliefs; and his life of service was exemplary. He made and kept copious notes that reflected his intense interest in the fundamental questions of life, especially those that had to do with the place and purpose of man in creation, the earthly journey and life after death. This quotation from his notes is illustrative: “How do you beautify the Earth? You do this by the Good Thought, which comes from you, by the assistance you give your brother-man to rise, materially and spiritually, and by the assistance you give other life than man to be more beautiful than you met it – IN SHORT, SERVICE TO MANKIND IN LOVE.” He once gave me a small book in which I came across a striking and unforgettable answer to a question on how to remain on the spiritual path. The teacher said: “Give all, love much, speak little, judge not, and keep on keeping on.” His life mirrored this teaching. He was a man of few words who demonstrated tremendous sacrificial love. He was eternally optimistic and unbowed by misfortune. He manifested an abiding faith in the idea, “Trials sent to us as cords of love.”

He marched on till the end.

When he died on August 22, 2013, at the St. Nicholas Hospital, Lagos, it was 24 days to his 84 th birthday on September 16. He earnestly believed that he would attain age 85, and always maintained that his faith was Bible-supported.

“Ask, and you shall receive” was his mantra whenever anyone questioned his projection of certainty about how long he would live. On his birthday, he would remind his family and others of how many years he supposedly had left.

Whenever Macaulay asked, “How are you, today?” he laid

A

The other side of Ribadu’s defection

PPARENTLY, the conscience of this nation lies with our moral angels, the newspaper columnists, TV anchors and hosts of talk-show orgies that provide viewers with a daily dose of political pornography. Only in this country does one see these impatient anchors jumping out from the restraints of journalism and physically flanking their disagreements with political positions simply because they do not conform to their innermost convictions.

They have assumed the roles of political puritans. Only in Nigeria are the views of political puritans and their followers, more powerful than those of political players and the democratically elected, public representatives. Only here can we expect, in the aftermath of a decade-long conflict, displaced peoples, devastating economic disasters, a region isolated and its disappeared children unaccounted for, kidnapped children unrecovered and those at home still contracting and dying of measles. In Nigeria political revolution is neither about people nor freedoms. It’s about settling scores.

I am recounting these as a corollary to the Ribadu argument, of which there seem to be only two important features. These are the spectacle, Nuhu Ribadu himself and the lessons of a politics that is without an identifiable cause.

Since Ribadu moved from the APC to the PDP, only the skies have remained where they are but the roofs have all but fallen. Nobody seems to find the nexus between theory and practice. When a man is full of decent theory, he would also require a platform to implement them and that is where the need for certain structural adjustments become very necessary.

But many have described Nuhu as having committed class suicide. But Nuhu is in the PDP for the love of his people and not for the love of lucre. This much a lot of people can attest to but many simply just ignore. The performance factor is obvious. Nuhu has the lead role in the plot of the play where ethnicity is calculatedly mixed with politics. His defection may not be legitimate in the eyes of electoral democracy or serious political scientists, but this is the occupational hazard of grandstanding for political purposes – you become a spoiler for both disciplines. Ask the northern politicians, to them, the only thing worth defecting to is APC. Anyone who knows Ribadu knows that he wants the Millennium Development Goals back in Adamawa – shelter for all, education for all, employment for all, with some sprinkling of gender equality and minority rights. Ribadu is also a proponent of peace and religious harmony. But Nuhu’s investment in representative national politics has not paid off. He had no constituency and suffered from ethno-religious identity-based politics. His political relevance depends only on a performance of promissory and not on delivery.

The PDP’s performance, on the other hand, has simply been one of a cringe-worthy lack of political intuition.

Worse, the PDP leadership is not just prone to being counterintuitive but, since several of them and their advisers have

By Maikano Ubandoma been identified with garrison politics, they tend to revert to a do-or-die-style of it. Their thinking, vocabulary, attitude and methodology seem to be taken straight out of some militant manual. Outside of their exclusive board rooms, they often seem enamoured by their own power and destiny but are having a hard time convincing others of their wisdom and deliverability. It doesn’t help to have Nuhu Ribadu explaining the nutritional importance of his defection to the people. They should know that his intentions are altruistic and far from selfish. His clinching power will spell the end of power breakfast for the state’s cruel stakeholders.

The economic disobedience of the elite to the people of Adamawa state (it’s not civil) after deep introspection, has just made every tax-evading member of the upper and trading classes a rebel – now with a cause. Such a complex PDP economic plan must be inspiring to all progressive economists who have for years advocated for restructuring the economy by doing exactly the opposite.

Most would agree that there are flaws in our electoral system. Our voting citizens hang admirable hope on representative politics. However, fighting for its reform doesn’t make it to the top of the list of their poverty-stricken, disease-ridden, insecure and brutalised lives. The majority’s is a politics of localised deals and negotiations with the system – whether of the state or local community/tribal structures.

What will they get from upgrading big politics if it doesn’t change the small politics of their daily lives? Nothing trickles down except floodwater, and we all know it.

Historically, there have been no local revolts to institute the most important feature of an egalitarian political system (i.e. local government). So, why would any party imagine that the nation will rise and topple governments for the cause of big, centralised political reforms? It also makes for the most unlikely revolutionary slogan ever. Compare the promise of stomach infrastructure to ‘electoral reform so a party may just win and deliver a clean government’. The people of Adamawa state are right to be insulted since they successfully elected the PDP through this defective system.

Now they must suffer that choice and join the revolution that asks for more sacrifice, not expect delivery.

Mobilising people for causes is not easy. This is not to suggest ‘people’ are not discontented or, that they are ‘lazy’, ‘uneducated’ or ‘ungrateful’ but that their gripes are not with any vague ‘system’. Instead, depending on who these ‘people’ are, they have very specific, localised, identifiable issues with equally distinguishable systems, codes and power-centres. The people, unlike the system are not a faceless, identical bloc. So, unless a party can tap into different

people’s immediate needs and prove its commitment to delivering these in a targeted manner, it may as well forget success. PDP knows this and has poached Ribadu to redeem it in Adamawa. Shouldn’t the people be happy?

Nuhu is performing a protest politics that has no direct personal interest or impact. In the absence of a people’s cause, one cannot take seriously his disobedience. But Adamawa is in an emergency. Preachers, TV anchors and columnists need to climb out of their intellectual fog from which they insist that we need a new Nigeria where Nuhu cannot defect even if to save the situation. The PDP leadership brokers no revolutionary hate for the religious militants in Yobe who have murdered thousands of soldiers and citizens of Nigeria. They advocate peaceful negotiations with these internal enemies of the state. Their street power that we see in action today has managed to stop food supplies in the past but not once have we seen it directed towards a policing of funding or arms supplies to these militants.

Abusing the ruling party, the opposition, the judiciary, INEC and media houses but not the militants, the interventionist army, the religious bigots, the laws that enable persecution of minorities, the capitalist elite that crush labour, the men who rape women and children – all makes for a boiled-egg revolution that is anti-state, but not pro-people.

Nuhu has even, perhaps, squandered away the opportunity for a genuine pressure for electoral reforms in Nigeria but he has done it for his people and he should be supported to bring those same people out of the doldrums and not crucified.

•Ubandoma writes from Yola

Nuhu is performing a protest politics that has no direct personal interest or impact. In the absence of a people’s cause, one cannot take seriously his disobedience. But Adamawa is in an emergency.

Preachers, TV anchors and columnists need to climb out of their intellectual fog from which they insist that we need a new Nigeria where Nuhu cannot defect even if to save the situation.

THE NATION MONDAY, AUGUST 25, 2014

22

COMMENTS

K

EEN observers of events in Imo State in the last couple of weeks are bound to be worried about the rising foul political atmosphere in that state. This perception is further reinforced by the fact that the ban on politics is still in force.

If signs of political intolerance and bad blood are very palpable even with the ban on politics still in force, it remains to be surmised what the situation will be when the lid is eventually lifted. For a state that has overtime carved a niche as one of the most peaceful in the country, indications that this record is about to be thrown to the dogs do not give comfort of mind.

Events have taken place in very quick succession to suggest that political actors and sundry personages are about to heat up the political space for their selfish goals. Otherwise how do we account for the intolerance, recurring use of intemperate language and resort to the law of the jungle that have of recent characterized some social events attended by the state governor, Rochas Okorocha and other opposition politicians in the state?

At least in three different occasions in about a month, we have seen signals that the 2015 elections in that state, may turn out bloody if caution is not exercised by those angling for political offices. It would appear that the turn of events may ruffle the trademark peace that has characterized the politics of the state since the return of democracy in 1999.

The rancor and bitter politics that have been the undoing of some sister states may turn out a child’s play if Imo politicians do not exercise caution and utmost restraint in their actions, conducts and language of political discourse.

Though the incident between Okorocha and

‘The ordinary people of the state may turn out victims if this rancor is taken to political campaigns. It is therefore vital that all those seeking the mandate of the Imo electorate abide by the rules of engagement’

I

Emeka OMEIHE 08112662675 email: EmekaOmeihe@yahoo.com

Worrying signals from Imo Charly boy in Oguta during the burial church ceremony of the latter’s father, Justice Chukwudifu Oputa does not aptly fit into this categorization, it however, bears mention here. This is more so because the state government had then blamed Imo politicians in Abuja for being the architects of Charly boy’s unruly conduct. Even then, Charly boy had equally explained that his action was to prevent the burial from being turned into a political campaign ground. Either way, politics was inevitably dragged into the matter by both parties.

If people did not understand the fears alluded to by Charly boy then or agreed with action, two other social events since that encounter give a glimmer of what he may have foreseen. This conclusion is further given fillip when it is recalled that the key reason adduced by Okorocha’s image managers for linking Abuja politicians to the incident was their desire to prevent the anticipated huge ovation that was to herald the governor’s speech given his popularity with the people. So they had envisaged that the occasion may be taken advantage of to launder political image. This dimension may have been the fear of Charly boy for which he did not allow the governor to speak. Yet that does not make his action right.

The Oguta incident may not have qualified as an act of political intolerance since Charly boy is not known to be a politician. But the 2014 edition of the Oru Owerri cultural festival held recently in Owerri was all that was needed to tap into the political temperament of the state as the 2015 general elections draw nearer.

That event had in attendance Governor

N his inaugural speech on May 29, 2011, Governor Ajimobi highlighted the situation of infrastructural decay in the state when he said: “What stare us in the face today are nothing but the ruins of that noble pedigree.

Even the most generous commentator on Nigeria’s affairs will not deny that Oyo State is no longer the pace-setter that it used to be. The labour of our heroes past has been lost in the vortex of vanity. Our public infrastructure is dilapidated.

Our public institutions have been compromised. The psyche of our people has been bruised. Our state has ceased to be the reference point for laudable programmes for which it earned her nobility. We have, on the reverse, become a staple on reports on violence and brigandage, corruption, street fight and lingering political crises. The duty of government as guarantor of public peace has been performed in the breach.”

In addressing this challenge, the governor promised that his government would pursue a programme of urban development and renewal, adding that it was disheartening that Oyo State, Ibadan in particular, remains a recurring decimal in discussions about urban degeneration. According to him: “We are going to institute a robust programme of urban renewal for our urban centres.” This is the basis for assessment of urban renewal programmes of the Governor Ajimobi administration since 2011.

In Nigeria, the failure of several state governments to respond adequately to the increasing demand for urban infrastructural services has had the consequences of hampering the productivity of the economy as well as contributing to the deterioration of the quality of life in our cities.

In other words, lack of infrastructure is one of the most pressing problems in Nigerian cities. In virtually all cities, inadequate provision of infrastructural services has affected most business firms, with the result that returns on investment have been adversely affected. Indeed, while cities in Nigeria, as in other developing countries, have been growing at a very rapid rate, there has been no commensurable growth in the rate at which social services and infrastructural amenities are provided. The result has been a gradual decline in the quality of the environment and in the quality of life.

Urbanization is one of the macro trends driving the global economy and opening up entrepreneurial and business opportunities globally. Generally, the ills common in developing countries are urban poverty, squalor, and unemployment. As at 2007, each of 11 Nigerian cities, namely Abuja, Benin City, Ibadan, Ilorin, Kaduna, Kano, Lagos, Maiduguri, Ogbomosho, Port Harcourt, and Zaria had more than 750,000 inhabitants, and of course is home to Nigeria’s large youthful population.

Elsewhere, in urban China, urbanization has exacerbated

Okorocha, his deputy and the entire state executive council members. Also in attendance were a female governorship aspirant, Senator Chris Anyanwu, another governorship aspirant and former attorney general and commissioner for justice in the state, Ken Njamanze and some National Assembly members among other dignitaries.

Okorocha who spoke immediately after he was inducted urged Imo electorate not to allow criminals and 419 people to be voted into leadership positions in the state any more.

But he stirred the hornet’s nest when he urged the gathering not to allow “a woman who slaps her husband in public to govern the state”. “You must not allow ono na di acho di (married women still in search of husband or worse still women of easy virtue) to govern or represent you anymore”.

His choice of words did not go down well with the audience which subsequently went rowdy. There was commotion as the governor’s supporters and those of the other politicians at the venue attempted to engage themselves.

Those who could no longer withstand the charged environment left even as it was reported that Senator Anyanwu sobbed apparently sensing that the allusions by Okorocha were meant for her.

Okorocha’s conduct at that event has not gone down well with decent minds. Though he did not mention any name in his statement but it was not difficult deciphering whom the allusions were directed at. Worse still, it remains to be imagined why a governor should descend from his Olympian height to embrace gutter language in such a

dignified event.

He may have spoken the minds of many when he urged the audience not to vote for criminals and 419 people any more. That is the prayer of right thinking people of the state.

Yet, even as it is an open secret that the politics of that state and the country is dominated by these tainted elements, our laws have not helped the situation. Those that can be so classified refuse to admit that such references apply to them. That has been the problem.

Again, this schism reared its ugly head last week at the Iri ji new yam festival of the Mbaise clan. This time, the actors were Okorocha and Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Emeka Ihedioha. Ihedioha while welcoming the governor reportedly remarked that he was going to take over from him next year as Okorocha has run out of ideas. He also spoke of the absence of the state government’s presence in Mbaise accusing the governor of neglect.

Okorocha who did not take kindly to this, replied that there is nobody in Imo PDP who is his match in electoral contest and that the PDP is worse than the Ebola virus. He tried to showcase his achievements with a promise to cite a campus of the state university in the area but this did not impress the audience.

The event degenerated to a free for all between Okorocha’s supporters and those of Ihedioha but security operatives were on hand to avert any danger. The governor was said to have been whisked out of the venue even before the traditional kola nut breaking.

Apparently dissatisfied with the outcome of events, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Viola Onwuliri who represented President Jonathan lamented that Okorocha was “not interested in the event but only came to create confusion and derail it”.

Both Okorocha and Ihedioha have since embarked on recrimination on each other’s role that brought about the pass.

The governor demands an apology for the way he was treated. His adversaries would rather have him apologize to the Mbaise clan for disrupting their ceremony. So the buck passing goes on with tempers highly ruffled.

The ordinary people of the state may turn out victims if this rancor is taken to political campaigns. It is therefore vital that all those seeking the mandate of the Imo electorate abide by the rules of engagement. And to borrow the words of President Jonathan, their victory is not worth the blood of any Imo citizen.

Oyo’s urban renewal in context

By Abubakar Oladeji environmental problems such that Beijing is having more cars than Houston, as well as some of the dirtiest air on the planet. And it is not just affecting the Chinese. The nation surpassed America in 2006 as the biggest emitter of carbon dioxide from energy, and is now pumping out nearly twice America’s level. This suggests that the issue of urban renewal is of global appeal.

The urban renewal programmes being implemented in Oyo State have continued to attract differing comments by sections of the society. While a segment of the citizenry, particularly the elites believe that the programmes are timely, well-thought out, and are capable of transforming the economies of the state, other groups in the society, most especially, the so-called victims of the urban renewal programmes in the state, think otherwise. This latter group maintains, and has argued, that since development is about people, any urban renewal programme that constraints their economic empowerment is not just counter-productive, but also capable of deepening their poverty level.

In recent times, particularly since the onset of administration of Governor Ajimobi, Oyo State has been undergoing massive construction and renovation and is currently wearing a new look to the delight of all, including unrepentant opponents of the administration. Prior to the inauguration of this administration, the general belief was that Oyo State, and in particular, its capital, Ibadan was the dirtiest city in the country. Most of the major roads in the state are in serious state of dilapidation, with pot-holes lying the length and breadth of the state, with implication for vehicular and human movements. Of note is the notion that the state lacks an urban development master plan making urban planning extremely difficult.

Urban renewal programmes of the Ajimobi administration involves rehabilitation/reconstruction of over 200 roads across the state as well as construction of about 10 major bridges demolished by the flood of August 2011, among which is the multi-million naira Bodija/Secretariat bridge.

It also involves dualization of major roads in Ibadan, as well as entry roads to major towns of zones in the state like in Oyo, Ogbomoso and Iseyin. Others are construction of a fly-over at the Mokola Roundabout in Ibadan, the first of such by any civilian governor since the creation of the state, in 1976, and construction of bridges and road repairs across the 33 local governments in the state are on-going.

Among achievements of the Ajimobi administration’s urban renewal programmes is the construction of major intra and inter-city motor parks within the Ibadan metropolis, among which are the Temidire motor park and the Podo motor park. Others include clearing of 225 identified unauthorized refuse depots; regular collection of waste from major markets and hinterland at no cost to our people; repair and refurbishing of 55 waste management trucks; monitoring, collection and disposal of waste during sanitation exercises, every Thursday and last Saturday of the month; establishing synergy with 11 Local Government Councils in Ibadanland for the coordination and use of their refuse/ garbage trucks; and re-engineering of Private Sector Participation (PSP) Scheme of refuse management by contractors. The upgrade of Agodi Garden, a tourists’ haven located near the state secretariat is included. Also related to the urban renewal programme is the inauguration of the Joint Security Patrol Squad comprising the military, the police, State Security Service (SSS) and Civil Defence Corps, code-named “Operation Burst” for the maintenance of law and order. This is considered one of the best practices in inter-governmental relations in Nigeria’s federalism.

It is noteworthy that aggressive urban renewal exercise in Ibadan and Oyo State in general has transformed the erstwhile dirtiest city in Nigeria to one of the most investorfriendly metropolis in Nigeria. This has led to attraction of reputable investors into the state, including one that is constructing the largest soya milk industry in Africa, another building the largest bakery in West Africa, yet another erecting the largest poultry that will produce the highest number of day-old chicks in Nigeria, a major food processing company, a major dairy producer and one of the biggest outsource agencies for the telecoms industry. In addition, the state has been spared the tragedy of municipal flooding that ravaged most of its cities in the past two years. This is a clear dividend of the administration’s urban renewal programme.

Governor Ajimobi has taken every opportunity to assure the citizens that the urban renewal programme currently being executed by his administration was not meant to inflict unnecessary hardship on the lives of the people but to give the state necessary facelift, promising that the current pain would soon turn into gains.

• Oladeji is a researcher at the Nigerian Institute of Economic Research (NISER), Ibadan.

25

THE NATION MONDAY, AUGUST 25, 2014

BUSINESS THE NATION

E-mail:- bussiness@thenationonlineng.net

CEO

ISSUES

A generator-driven economy - P. 27

News Briefing LCCI urges CBN to review discriminatory loan policy THE Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), has urged the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to rethink its policy that barred certain businesses and their promoters from obtaining fresh loans from the banks.

–Page 26

NBC: Nigeria ‘ll meet ITU’s June deadline

NIGERIA’S broadcast sector regulator, the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), has assured that the country will meet the next June next deadline set by the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) for television stations in Africa to migrate from analogue broadcasting to digital terrestrial television (DTT), adding that the date remained sacrosanct.

–Page 26

Sovereign Wealth Funds are managed conservatively.

They don’t borrow money the way banks do, so you can’t compare this business to banking business. This business does not expose itself to that kind of risk. It is not the same thing as private equity •Managing Director/CEO, NSI A, Uche Orji

‘Why Nigeria isn’t reaping from global aviation market’ - P. 34

CBN, NERC meet to reconcile N25b gas debt T HE Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Agency ( NERC) and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has begun work to establish the authetic debt profile of the gas suppliers to the power sector.

Meanwhile, the Federal Government has said its inability to meet with chief executive officers of gas firms to okay a commitment for increased gas capacity is responsible for the delay in the implementation of the new gas prices it announced on August 2 .

NERC Chairman, Dr. Sam Amadi, who spoke to The Nation at the weekend in Abuja, said: “The policy has not had an impact because it has not been operationalised basically.”

Minister of Petroleum Resources Mrs. Diezani

• Explains delays in new gas price implementation

From John Ofikhenua, Abuja

Alison-Madueke promised that the CBN would settle the N25billion debt owed to gas suppliers, stressing that NERC had approved a new benchmark price of $2.50/ mcf of gas supply, and $0. 80/ mcf as transportation costs for new capacity, effective this year.

Explaining why the new price has not resulted in increased gas to power, Amadi added that to implement the new price policy, the apex bank and the Bankers Committee have started delibera-

tions on how to create a process for the payment of the debt in the next two weeks.

He said: “The commitment will be extracted and a new contractive framework that will be committing the gas supplier to clear enforceable commitment to deliver gas molecules will be framed-up and signed up.

“The next issue is that we are going to meet with the CEO of the gas companies to sign off for a commitment to increase capacity. In the last one week we have been working on establishing the real debt profile.

“The CBN has also started discussing with the Bankers’ Committee and the bankers will create a process by which the payment can happen.

“In the next one or two weeks, the payments will be made and then the commitment will be extracted and a new contractive framework that will committing the gas supplier to clear enforceable commitment to deliver has molecules will be frame-up and signed up.

“So, what happened that day was a trigger and since then several meetings have been held and first -price is concluded. Two, debt is about to be signed off and paid in a matter of days or weeks, the new contract framework will be fully agreed upon and that will put the framework in total good shape.”

Nigeria, others to benefit from Dangote’s $5b PRESIDENT/Chief Executive Officer, Dangote Group and Africa’s wealthiest man, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, has said the Nigeria, Ghana, Togo and Tanzania will benefit from the Group’s fresh investment capital.

–Page 37

DATA STREAM COMMODITY PRICES Oil Cocoa

-$117.4/barrel -$2,686.35/metric ton

Coffee

- ¢132.70/pound

Cotton

- ¢95.17pound

Gold

-$1,396.9/troy

Sugar

-$163/lb RATES

Inflation

-8.2%

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

-15.87%

Savings rate

-3%

91-day NTB

-15%

Time Deposit

-5.49%

MPR

-12%

Foreign Reserve

$38.4b

FOREX CFA

-0.2958

EUR

-206.9

£

-242.1

$

-156

¥

-1.9179

SDR

-238

RIYAL

-40.472

• From left: Second Vice President, Chartered Institute of Stockbroker’s (CIS), Mr. Dipo Adekoje; Executive Director, Market Operations and Technology, Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), Mr. Ade Bajomo; President, CIS, Mr Albert Okumagba and Chief Executive Officer, NASD Plc, Mr Bola Ajomale, during the courtesy visit of CIS President, Mr. Okumagba to NASD’s head office in Lagos.

18 firms raise N225.3b bonds in eight years

I

N the rush to raise corporate bonds, 18 companies have issued N225.38 billion corporate bonds in eight years in 23 deals.

According to documents accessed from the Debt Management Office (DMO) by The Nation, UBA Plc issued the largest bond value in two installments of N20 billion in 2010 and N35 billion in 2011.

Both bond insurances had 13 and 14 per cent coupon values with seven years’ maturity date.

Flour Mills of Nigeria Plc issued the single largest corporate bond worth N37.5 billion. The bond, which was

From Nduka Chiejina (Asst.

Editor), Abuja

issued in 2010, had a coupon value of 12 per cent with five years tenure thus putting its year of maturity at 2015.

The Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN) did not want the private sector to overrun the corporate bonds market, so in 2012 it issued a N30.56 billion bond with a 17.25 coupon and five years’ maturity tenor.

Others in the elite 23 corporate bonds issuers between 2005 and 2013 were Acess bank (N1.9 billion), Crusader Nigeria Plc (N4 billion), Custo-

dian and Allied Insurance Plc (N1.17 billion), C and I Leasing Plc (N2.24 billion and N0.94 billion), Guaranty Trust Bank Plc (N13.17 billion), NGC Sterile (N2 billion), UACN Property Development Company Plc (N15 billion).

Chellarams Plc issued (N1.5 billion and N0.54 billion) corporate bonds in 2010 and 2012; Dana Group (N8.01 billion), Sterling Bank (N7.5 billion), Lafarge/WAPCO Nigeria Plc (N11.88 billion), Nigeria Aviation Handling Company Plc (N15 billion and N2.05 billion), Tower Funding (N4.63 billion), Crusader Insurance (N2.26 billion, zero coupon),

First Securities Discount House (N5.53 billion) and La Casera (N3 billion).

On the other hand, six banks issued Corporate Eurobonds in the International Capital Market (ICM) valued at $3.4 billion between January 2011 and this month.

Some of the banks are Guaranty Trust Bank ($500 million and $400 million), Access Bank ($350 million and $400 million), Fidelity Bank ($300 million), Zenith Bank ($500 million), Diamond Bank ($200 million) and First Bank ($450 million and $300 million).

‘Nigeria flares 1.5bscf of gas daily’

By Emeka Ugwuanyi

T

HE volume of gas being flared by oil firms in Nigeria is still very high standing at about 1.5 billion standard cubic feet per day (bscf/d) contrary to claims by the government, it was learnt over the weekend.

The Lagos State Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Mr. Taofiq Tijani, who spoke on the sideline of the yearly conference of energy correspondents in Lagos, said the country flares 1.5 bsc/d of gas, which amounts to huge loss in revenue.

Though he praised the Federal Government’s Gas Master Plan (GMP) initiative, which is aimed at addressing utilisation and monetisation of natural gas, including gathering of flared gas, he said the expectations from the gas master plan objectives in the short term are not satisfactory.

He said the government should seek investors in the sector to enhance the drive in achieving success of the gas master plan objectives.

“Considering the volume of gas flared gas, there is need for the Federal Government to look for investors to investors to assist and state governments should also be carried along,” he said.

He explained that the wooing of investors into the sectors and involvement of states in the gas utilisation and monetisation agenda is imperative because Lagos State gets one bscf/d of gas through the Escravos-Lagos pipeline but noted that the quantity is grossly inadequate when compared to demand.

He said investors who want to establish petrochemical, fertiliser and huge power plants as well as other gas based industries in Lagos could not do so for lack of gas supply.

He recommended the establishment of a ministry of gas, explaining that such ministry would fast-track the actualisation of optimising gas development and utilisation.

However, the representative of the Group Executive Director, Power and Gas, Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Mr. Bello Rabiu who is the General Manager, Compet i t i v e A na l y si s, d i sa greed with Tijani.

He said the volume of gas being flared is 700 million standard cubic feet daily compared to 2 bscf/d a year ago.

26

THE NATION MONDAY, AUGUST 25, 2014

BUSINESS NEWS FMBN appeals to CBN over equity contribution • Eyes N250 billion capital base

By Muyiwa Lucas

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• From left: Membership Relation Manager, Mrs. Toyin Idowu; Yusuf, Bello, Group Managing Director, Origin Group, Prince Samuel Joseph Samuel, Smith and Group Executive Director, Origin Group, Mr. Manoj Rajasth, during the LCCI courtesy visit to the Origin Group, in Lagos.

PHOTO: SOLOMON ADEOLA

LCCI urges CBN to review discriminatory loan policy

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HE Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Indus try (LCCI), has urged the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to rethink its policy that barred certain businesses and their promoters from obtaining fresh loans from the banks.

Its President, Alhaji Remi Bello, who spoke when he led executives of LCCI on a visit to Origin Group Limited in Lagos over the weekend, said it was inappropriate for the banking sector regulator to criminalise those who approached banks for loans, or credit simply because their businesses had challenges and could not pay on the agreed terms.

He said: “ There’s need to revisit some of the policies of the Federal Government, especially the CBN’s regarding outright ban of people who were given loans and could not meet up with the repayment, not because of failure on their part, but be-

By Simeon Ebulu

cause of the challenges the nation is facing, inclusive of the insurgency in the north, and very recently, the Ebola issue. There is need for a review of some of these policies by the CBN Governor.

“Some of these policies especially with the CBN with regard to some bad loans and facilities which were as a result of the challenges the nation is facing, most especially the insurgency in the north, the new CBN Governor will need to go back and look at some of these policies as they affect businesses that are under one intervention fund or the other, that are not able to operate now, they should be given some special consideration.”

He argued that an outright ban on people because they were involved in running business and could not meet up with their facilities, which was not because of

failure on their part, but because of the failure in the environment, needs to be addressed seriously.

“Don’t criminalise people that are taking loans. It you are not taking loans and you are not taking facility, you are not in business,” he said.

The LCCI team, including its Director-General, Muda Yusuf, Otunba Dele AjayiSmith, was received by the Group Managing Director of Origin Group, Prince S. J. Samuel, who said his vision for the Group is to transform it into an entity that would ensure food security for the country.

He said the tractor hiring arm of the conglomerate is in the process of partnering with state governments to avail farmers the opportunities in the unit and help expand their yield per hectre, adding that some of their products, including vegefresh, have already made appreciable inroad

into local and international markets.

Alhaji Bello expressed satisfaction at what he saw during the visit. “We have seen that this business is creating about 500 jobs as of now with the potential to grow job creation to about 3,000 in the future. We believe that with the necessary support and the right policies in place, it would be a lot better.”

He said LCCI would invite the Origin Group to join chamber as a member.

Also speaking, its Director General, Muda Yusuf, while acknowledging the vibrancy of the West African sub-regional market, regretted that the outbreak of the Ebola virus is a disincentive.

He said: “With the Ebola issue now, you know it’s a sub-regional problem, so when you talk of sub-regional trade at the moment, especially going as far as Li-

NBC: Nigeria ‘ll meet ITU’s June deadline N IGERIA’S broadcast sector regulator, the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), has assured that the country will meet the next June next deadline set by the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) for television stations in Africa to migrate from analogue broadcasting to digital terrestrial television (DTT), adding that the date remained sacrosanct.

Mba spoke at a breakfast session jointly organised by Advertisers’ Association of Nigeria (ADVAN) and Media Independent Practitioners Association of Nigeria (MIRAN) in Lagos at the weekend.

The country has less than ten months to meet the deadline. The NBC started pilot implementation of the project in strife-torn Jos, the capital of Plateau State.

Its Director General, Emeka Mba said after the ITU deadline, there would be no more international support for analogue spectrum as any operator still operating on the platform would have been technically edged out.

He said in pursuit of meeting the ITU deadline, the Federal Government had finalised and harmonised discussions over the transmission network parameters

By Lucas Ajanaku

with all Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) member states.

According to him, specifications for the Basic Set Top Box and Digital Television Receivers had also been finalised with other countries in the sub-region to ensure a seamless transition.

He said contrary to the era where there was no separation of functions in the broadcast industry, there will indeed be separation of responsibilities under the new dispensation.

According to him, broadcasters would be responsible for content while a Signal Distributor or Carrier would be saddled with Transmission of the Signals to viewers.

Aside the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), the NBC chief said the Federal Government would license two other Signal Carriers for optimum benefit for viewers across the country, adding that the Federal Government has begun the process of licensing the second Signal Distributor.

Mba said the focus of the NBC was on ensuring more broadcasting services are created such that the gaps in

the industry are effectively addressed.

He said: “Our focus at the NBC is promoting more broadcasting services to fill current gaps in content and services such as themed channels, special interest channels, educational and children’s channels, regional channels as well as new HD services.”

According to him, the regulatory body will encourage interoperability through the use of open standards as well as credible audience measurement and advertising.

ITU Secretary-General, Dr Hamadoun Toure, said the June 2015 deadline was agreed upon by the 193 members of the organisation. This consist governments as well as 70 private sector members.

Toure said: “We knew it was doable when we set the migration deadline in 2005.

The benefits of the migration exercise to both consumers as well as broadcasters are also enormous.”

He added that the migration exercise will lead to freeing up of about onethird of frequencies which can then be used for the provision of other services.

He however stressed the need for collaboration among existing analogue broadcasters, advertisers, regulators, content produc-

beria, Guinnea and Sierra Leone, it’s not an area you want to encourage any trade for now, But when you talk of normal circumstances, the prospects are good, there’re some progress with regards to the protocols on economic integration.

“But the key issues to be addressed are actually not tariff barrier, but the multiple check points that people face, infrastructure which has to do with transportation and the difficulty of moving goods around.”

Yusuf said if one looks at the trade volume and the trade statistics and the number of imports that are being recorded against Benin Republic, it will be clear that those imports are far beyond the capacity of that country.

“Those things are meat for Nigeria. This is one of the things creating problems for this country and that is why businesses are closing down,” he said.

HE Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN) has appealed to the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to expedite action on the payment of its outstanding equity contribution to the bank’s take off grant, its Managing Director, Mr. Gimba Ya’U Kumo, said.

Although the Federal Government had paid up its share of the equity when the FMBN took off, the expansion of the scope of operation of the bank 16 years ago, to carry secondary mortgage business, led to a re distribution of its shares between the CBN and the Federal Government.

He said: “The CBN has paid its first part of the share of about N60 million, while the Federal Government has fully paid up. We are now discussing with the new management of the CBN to pay up their balance and they have promised to pay very soon.”

The FMBN chief said there was an urgent need to increase the financial muscle of the mortgage institution to cope with the demands of modern day mortgage business.

He added that the financial muscle of the FMBN is in two folds- the share capital, which he said is not yet fully paid up. The second part, he further explained, is the working capital to enable it carry out mortgage activities and funding of buildings, especially because the housing stock as presently constituted, is not enough.

Freight increase upsets agro shippers

A

•Mba

ers and government as a necessary yardstick for the success of the ITU initiative.

President, MIPAN, Mr. Tolu Ogunkoya, said digitisation of the industry would bring real transformation in the nation’s broadcast industry in terms of content development, quality service and job creation.

According to him, the initiative would definitely signpost a new era for operators for open and keen competition. “For me, this is the startoff of the relationship. There is definitely going to be a transformation,” he said.

His ADVAN counterpart, Mr. Kola Ayeni, said he was aware of the prevailing scarcity of spectrums in the country; assuring that digitisation would help to address the issue.

GROexporters have expressed dismay over the increase shipping freight by shipping agents. They fear that this would lead to higher costs and lower competitiveness of produce.

Chairman, Atanda and Anjorin and Sons, Mr Sunday Anjorin, said the industry is challenged by various charges for haulage for exports by shipping firms, which most times eaten into the profit margin.

He said such charges were not working in favour of exporters to reduce inputs costs, even as a stronger currency erodes their earnings.

He said there were regulations to protect plant, animal and human health which affect processed agricultural products.

One of the main reasons that small and medium scale producers are not participating in export of agricultural commodities is that they cannot meet strict food safety and quality standards required by foreign buyers.

According to him, certain developments in international trade are a matter of concern, especially the increasingly complex and stringent food safety and environmental re-

By Daniel Essiet

quirements .

Such requirements , include phytosanitary regulations and traceability for fruit and vegetables.

Earlier, President, National Cashew Association of Nigeria(NCAN), Tola Faseru, said the industry was facing new challenges and needed to continue to adapt and upgrade its capabilities.

“This is as a result of emerging regulations and standards, as well as health, environment and security concerns, notably in Europe, North America and Japan. Consequently, creating new and increasing demands on the packaging of agro exports. For this reason, he advised small business exporters to develop the mindset that they are competing in international markets and packaging is an important part of that competition.

“The impact is great on exporters of cashew nuts. Consequently, exporting cashew kernels now requires volume, a large investment in factory, equipment and raw material to achieve international expectations.“ He stressed that deterioration in export crop quality was serious.

THE NATION MONDAY, AUGUST 25, 2014

27

ISSUES

B

• A power plant

Despite the coming of the electricity generation and distribution companies, power supply remains erratic. Offices, shops and homes are being powered by generators. In the manufacturing sector, rising energy cost remains the biggest threat to sustainability of business, reports Assistant Editor OKWY IROEGBU-CHIKEZIE.

T

A generator-driven economy

WO years ago, President Goodluck Jonathan boasted that by June 2013, Nigerians will not require the use of stand-by generators anymore, assuring that electricity supply would be stable.

“I promise Nigerians we will stabilise power, “ the President said in an interview in February 2012.

He said: “By the middle of next year (2013), you will ‘dash’ me your generator. I’ll send it out of this country because we won’t need it here anymore.”

It was a promise that raised the hopes of many particularly manufacturers that electricity supply would improve soon.

In making the promise, the President must have been encouraged by the privatisation and handover of power assets to private investors in November last year.

However, the President’s promise is yet to be fulfilled, almost one year after.

Nigerians are yet to see an improvement in electricity supply. Rather than improve, it has dropped abysmally, hov-

ering between 3, 000 and 3, 200 Megawatts (MW), which is a far cry from the anticipated 14, 000 megawatts by 2013, under the administration’s power reform roadmap. The power roadmap targeted 40,000 MW by 2020.

Because of the drop in electricity supply, the generator market has continued to boom. Several brands and sizes of generators are competing for patronage. Inn

‘

offices, market stalls and homes, generators have come to the rescue.

In Lagos, which houses over 17 million people, for instance, generators are common sights. Today, a business plan incomplete the cost of generators and maintenance.

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) estimates that Nigerians spend a $13 billion yearly to fuel generators. Worst

We all know that power is life. If you don’t have it you can’t move forward. Power is basic in manufacturing. As a company we generate close to 70 per cent of our energy needs and that makes a huge negative influence to our accumulation of cost. The power crisis is a major issue.

Unfortunately, a former minister predicted that it may take 65 years to tackle the problem

’

hit are manufacturers, industrialists, and small business operators that find succour in generators.

For the President, Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Mr. Remi Bello, poor electricity supply remains the manufacturing sector’s major challenges. While noting that the power sector privatisation is yet to make the desired impact on the sector, he lamented that profit margin of manufacturing firms are still adversely affected due to rising energy cost. He said huge energy cost remains a major threat to business sustainability.

Bello said although some multinationals and other conglomerates in the sector may have the resilience to cope, the situation remains a nightmare for most SMEs manufacturing outfits.

He noted that the stagnation of the SME sector remains the tragedy of the country’s economy, as production is critical to economic and social stability.

• Continued on page 28

THE NATION MONDAY, AUGUST 25, 2014

28

ISSUES

A generator-driven economy • Continued from page 27

He said the business environment is generally not conducive for manufacturing enterprises, which is why the risk of industrial investment is high and continues to get higher. The various policy interventions have not had the desired impact on the sector. Unless there is an effective and sustained protection and support for the sector, it is difficult for any significant progress to be made in this regard,” Bello said.

Chairman, DN Meyer Plc, Sir Remi Omotoso is also not finding the state of the nation’s power sector funny.

“We all know that power is life. If you don’t have it you can’t move forward. Power is basic in manufacturing.

As a company we generate close to 70 per cent of our energy needs and that makes a huge negative influence to our accumulation of cost. The power crisis is a major issue. Unfortunately, as a former minister predicted that it may take 65 years to tackle the problem.”

He stressed that his company, which has been around for decades, has the capacity to satisfy the needs of consumers in the entire Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) region, but has been seriously hampered by the high cost of production , which makes the price of the end product more expensive than the imported ones. “We have not been able to satisfy our natural market because they (consumers) have alternatives and cheaper sources of paints and coatings from countries such as Dubai, Germany and Belgium,” he said.

Executive Director, Agusto & Co., Yinka Adelekan regretted that Nigeria’s electricity consumption per capital has been adjudged to be the lowest in Africa. According to a report by the consulting firm, the country’s electricity consumption per capital, measured by the World Bank at 149 Kilowatts/hour (KWH) is low due to self generation by most of the citizenry which is often not captured “Typically, Nigerians resort to self-generation of electricity; about 81 per cent of the national population (or 150 million Nigerians) generate electricity through alternative sources to compensate for irregular power supply,” she said.

Adelekan also said that with an estimated annual economic growth of between 7 per cent and 13 per cent, as well as urbanisation rate of 3.8 per cent, the nation’s electricity demand is projected to grow from 15, 730 MW in 2014 to 41, 133 MW and 88, 282MW by year end 2015 and 2020, respectively. She disclosed that as at March 2014, electricity supply from the national grid stood at 4, 306 MW, far below the estimated demand of 12, 800 MW. This, Adelekan added, implies that currently Nigeria is only generating about 34 per cent of the country’s requirements, and this provides an enormous potential for new and existing players in the industry. She said access to electricity is low in the country, as only 40 per cent of the population has access to electricity, compared to the world average of 80 per cent.

To make matters worse, the few who have access to electricity pay at a premium. For instance, Bello lamented that “most SMEs spend considerable sums on payment for power supply and often times these firms never get supply commensurate to payments made.” While calling on the National Electricity Commission (NERC), the electricity industry regulator, to urgently address the growing concerns of consumers over the outrageous bills, Bello said there is need for a review of fixed charges. He insisted that it is an unfair demand on power consumers.

The National Vice-President of the Nigerian Association of Small Scale Industrialists, Chief Duro Kuteyi, is no less worried by the outrageous tariff charged consumers without a commensurate service delivery. He said the SME sector can only grow if the practice of fixed electricity charges to small scale industrialists is discontinued. He decried the impact of the high electricity charge of N186, 000 compared to actual usage of about N50, 000 and called for a proper billing system where industrialists are made to pay for what they use.

He asked for a quick intervention on the power sector, noting that the burden of electricity on his members can best be imagined as may have closed shop.

Why has there been no significant improvement in electricity supply despite the power sector privatisation? Adelekan said that Nigeria’s electricity generation capacity has fluctuated between 3, 500 MW and 4, 400 MW over the last two years due in part to shortage of gas supply. As she observed, a significant number of gas pipelines were vandalised across the country, which disrupted gas supply to power plants.

Other factors contributing to the country’s low electricity generation output, she said, is the deplorable condition of some of the Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN) successor generation and distribution companies (GENCOs and DISCOs), as well as high transmission/distribution losses.

Indeed, apart from shortage of gas, the new core investors are faced with daunting challenges. For

•Nebo

• Omotoso

instance, The Nation learnt that shortly after the transaction and subsequent takeover of the power assets, the investors discovered that the privatisation was based on wrong assumptions because there was cash crunch in the sector and financial institutions were not willing to fund the projects, having committed about N1 trillion, which they (the lenders) are doubtful of recovering at the expected time. The exposure of the financial sector to the power sector, the investors said, is already heavy and the uncertainties arising from the situation increase their (financial sector) risk perception, which makes additional financing to cover the gaps identified in the sector difficult.

The investors also felt bad that their projected revenue fell below expectation. They said that cash collected from customers (end users) of electricity is much lower than expected and was not enough to cover all costs in the sector. They said that the GENCOs and DISCOs face deviations between their projected business plans and the actual situation. The deviations, they said, are bigger than what can be handled within the limits of the official assumptions given for the privatisation.

The investors also identified power equipment and facilities vandalism as a major challenge. Other challenges include energy theft, energy wastage by customers, and lack of urban planning whereby people build along the right of way of the utility companies and under high tension lines, among others.

The challenges notwithstanding, Adelekan insists that the opportunities in the power sector are too numerous to be ignored by investors, given the wide supply-demand gap and the country’s huge population.

Already, such advise as well as previous calls for increased private sector investment in the power sector, appear to be hitting the right chord. The management of Dangote Cement Plc, for instance, recently announced plans to invest $250million in coal-fired power plants in its Obajana, Ibeshe and Gboko plants.

The Group Managing Director, Dangote Cement, Mr. Edwin Devakumar who announced this, said already the first consignment of coal has been imported from South Africa. He said the step was to address the poor power supply situation in the country. “As you know, the gas and fuel oil supply situation is going from bad to worse every day and all the manufacturing industries and all the power plants are affected,” he noted.

‘

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) estimates that Nigerians spend a whopping $13 billion annually to fuel generators.

Worst hit are manufacturers, industrialists, and small business operators most of who still find succour in the use of generators despite the privatisation of the power assets.

’

• Bello

The Group Managing Director regretted that the situation had reached such a critical stage that the company had been importing low Pour Fuel Oil (LPFO) due to its scarcity in the country, remarking that Nigeria normally used to export the product to other nations.

According to Devakumar who disclosed that his company has taken delivery of three vessels of LPFO imported through the Apapa Ports, said each carried 30, 000 tones of the product while each of the coal plants would have capacity to generate 30 megawatts of electricity.

He further stated that the company had to rent tank farms in Apapa, Lagos and Calabar, Cross River State to discharge the imported LPFO before transferring it to the cement plants. He particularly stressed the urgent need for the government to do something about the problems of gas and LPFO supply, noting that businesses cannot survive in the country without power and fuel and expressed fear that if the ugly situation is not resolved, it could compound the problem of unemployment and insecurity.

“We have already lost about 10 per cent of our capacity and that means less cement in the market”, he said, adding however, that the company had also increased its production lines to take care of any shortfall. He explained that Dangote Group’s investment in coal-fired plants will give the company a lot of relief, stressing that the investment in coal has also created opportunities for the sector.

Will other private investors take a cue from Dangote and save Nigerians and manufacturers the embarrassment of persistent poor electricity supply? Time will tell. But until and unless that happens, electricity consumers would continue to groan, while the rank of generator merchants continue to grow at the detriment of the economy generally.

THE NATION MONDAY, AUGUST 25, 2014

29

MONEYLINK

CBN, NDIC urged to review customer complaints processes T HE Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) and other regulatory and supervisory authorities have been advised to review their consumercomplaints’ management framework to protect customers’interests.

President, Bank Customers Association of Nigeria (BCAN), Dr. ‘Uju Ogubunka, in a communiqué after the maiden bank customers’summit in Lagos, said such a review would help lenders in resolving complaints fast.

Ogubunka, who is also Registrar, Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN), said the regulators should also support association in the propa-

lot had happened in the industry that has made the formation of BCAN imperative.

The group wants regulators to facilitate the realisation of CBN’s financial literacy/ inclusion objective as well as inculcate good banking culture in the people.

He said the BCAN would rally bank customers to promote and protect their interests.

According to him, the association agreed that banking should be conducted on values and best practices.

He said BCAN should intensify

efforts at fostering mutual understanding, trust and confidence between banks and their customers through customer education to strengthen and ensure the realisation of CBN’s financial lite r a c y /inclusion and other programmes.

He said the association should organise awareness programmes in areas, such bank charges, financial literacy and inclusion as well as banking policies, regulations, products/services for the benefit of consumers and stakeholders.

The group should also partner organisations and individuals who share in its objectives to enable it extend its services to every part of Nigeria, he added.

8,685,145,863 Ordinary Shares of 50 kobo each in the ratio of three new Ordinary Shares for every five Ordinary Shares held as at June 13 at N5.80 per share. The bank wants to raise N50.34 billion.

The appeal for extension was a common during the bank’s nationwide Shareholders’ Forum in Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt and Owerri.

According to the investors, huge ex-

penses were incurred during the last Eid-El Fitr , which came up during the last weekend of last month while the opening of the Rights Issue was at the end of the same month.

A majority of them explained that coupled with the fact that salary payments are not due for workers in Nigeria until the end of month, raising investment capital would be a big

challenge, hence, the appeal for extension.

Sulaimon Laban noted: “We ended the Eid-El-Fitr celebations not too long ago and this came with some expenses.

Many interested investors are low on capital. I hope the bank’s management will accede to the request of shareholders, especially in view of the festivities that have just ended.

Honorary Doctorate of Science.

He is Chairman, Stanbic IBTC Bank Plc, which is part of the Standard Bank Group and a director of Flour Mills of Nigeria Plc, Nigerian Breweries Plc, Presco Plc, Unilever Nigeria Plc and the Chairman, Cadbury Nigeria Plc. He was chairman, Committee on Corporate Governance of Public Companies in Nigeria. He is also a member of the National Economic Management Team and the National Council of Privatisation.

Chief Executive, Stanbic IBTC Holdings Plc, Mrs. Sola DavidBorha has expressed delight that Peterside, Founder/Chairman, Stanbic IBTC Bank Plc at the appointments.

“The Board and Management of Stanbic IBTC wish him all the best as he takes on this additional role overseas,” she said.

Peterside said he would be shedding some of his private sector responsibilities in Nigeria to discharge his new overseas’role effectively.

•Peterside

Stories by Collins Nweze

gation of its programmes, noting that they are vital to deepening financial awareness in the country and achieving greater penetration of financial education.

He said lenders should extend their consumer complaints’desks to zonal and branch offices to boost quicker resolution of cases.

He said participants recognised the inter-dependence of the operators, regulators and bank customers in creating a sustainable financial system.

The participants agreed that a

Shareholders seek extension of Diamond Bank’s Rights Issue

S

HAREHOLDERS of Diamond Bank Plc have asked the management of the bank to extend the closing date of the ongoing Rights Issue to enable them maximise the opportunity to take up their allotted shares.

The Rights Issue, which opened on July 30, is expected to close tomorrow.

Diamond Bank is offering

S

Standard Bank Group appoints Peterside director

TANDARD Bank Group Limited has appointed Mr Atedo Nari Atowari Peterside as a non- executive director.

He was also appinted director of the Standard Bank of South Africa Limited.

The appointment took effect from last Friday.

Peterside obtained a B.Sc. in Economics from The City University, London and M.Sc. in Economics from London School of Economics & Political Science. He holds an

Offer Price

AFRINVEST W. A. EQUITY FUND ARM AGGRESSIVE GROWTH BGL NUBIAN FUND BGL SAPPHIRE FUND CANARY GROWTH FUND CONTINENTAL UNIT TRUST CORAL INCOME FUND FBN FIXED INCOME FUND FBN HERITAGE FUND FBN MONEY MARKET FUND FIDELITY NIGFUND • UBA BALANCED FUND • UBA BOND FUND • UBA EQUITY FUND • UBA MONEY MARKET FUND

168.40 9.17 1.12 1.19 0.70 1.39 1,676.09 1,124.55 121.09 121.16 1.67 1.2689 1.2656 0.9183 1.0705

Bid Price 168.06 9.08 1.12 1.19 0.69 1.33 1,676.09 1,123.73 120.26 120.30 1.62

RETAIL DUTCH AUCTION SYSTEM (RDAS)

O/PRICE

C/PRICE

1.44

1.58

0.14

54.00

58.49

4.49

NPFMCRFBK

1.00

1.05

0.05

NEIMETH

1.15

1.20

JAPAULOIL

0.51

BERGER

8.86

CORNERST

PREMBREW MRS

Transaction Dates 30/07/2014 23/07/2014

Amount Offered in ($) 400m 300m

Amount Sold in ($) 381.27m 272.9m

21/07/2014

400m

399.01m

ECONOMIC INDICATORS

1.2600 1.2656 0.9003 1.0705

GAINERS AS AT 21-08-14

SYMBOL

T

By Lucy Erekosima

HE Tony Elumelu Foundation has offered grants to four foundations of prominent African leaders to support their works in developing the next generation of leaders.

They are the Kofi Annan Foundation, the John A. Kufuor Foundation, the Olusegun Obasanjo Foundation, and Thabo Mbeki Foundation.

According to the Tony Elumelu Foundation, all of them are dedicated to the development of Africa through a focus on the continent’s youths, an approach that resonates with the Tony Elumelu Foundation’s emphasis on entrepreneurship as the key catalyst for Africa ‘s economic transformation.

The Chief Executive Officer, Tony Elumelu Foundation, Dr. Wiebe Boer , said: “There is a critical need in Africa for leadership development. This is a great opportunity for us to support the work of exemplary African political leaders to equip the next generation, so their experience becomes a benefit to us all.”

Through the African Leaders Grant, each organisation will use the funds to support initiatives associated with the entrepreneurship and leadership development pillar of the Tony Elumelu Foundation.

“The Tony Elumelu Foundation has previously partnered with the Olusegun Obasanjo Foundation to support our work in youth employment in Africa.

TEF Founder Tony O. Elumelu said: “Each of these leaders has taken great pride in fostering the next generation of African business and political leaders, who will be the drivers of Africa ‘s future growth and prosperity. Africa ‘s development relies on our ability to nurture a new generation of young leaders, as these African icons are already doing.”

DATA BANK

MEMORANDUM QUOTATIONS Name

Elumelu Foundation awards grants to four groups

CHANGE

CBN EXCHANGE RATES August 21, 2014

Inflation: July

8.3%

Monetary Policy Rate

12.0%

Foreign Reserves Oil Price (Bonny Light/b)

Currency

Buying (N)

Selling (N)

$39.5b

US Dollar

154.73

155.73

$110.44

Pounds Sterling

256.7744`

258.4339

Money Supply (M2)

N15.9 trillion.

Euro

205.2493

206.5758

0.05

Credit to private Sector (CPS)

N16.76 trillion

Swiss Franc

169.4557

170.5509

0.53

0.02

Primary Lending Rate (PLR)

Yen

1.4898

1.4994

9.20

0.34

CFA

0.2944

0.3144

0.57

0.59

0.02

ROYALEX

0.59

0.61

0.02

234.9759

236.4945

LEARNAFRCA

1.56

1.60

0.04

Yuan/Renminbi

25.1503

25.3137

UPL

4.28

4.37

0.09

LOSERS AS AT 21-08-14

SYMBOL NNFM ACADEMY FO WAPIC UACN RTBRISCOE NB SKYEBANK WAPCO ABCTRANS

O/PRICE 22.10 1.63 238.00 0.78 60.50 0.88 178.95 2.95 120.01 0.71

C/PRICE 21.00 1.55 231.20 0.76 59.00 0.86 175.54 2.90 118.31 0.70

CHANGE -1.10 -0.08 -6.80 -0.02 -1.50 -0.02 -3.41 -0.05 -1.70 -0.01

16.5%

NIGERIAN INTER-BANK OFFERED RATES (NIBOR)

Tenor

WAUA

Rate (%)

Rate (%)

Overnight (O/N)

10.500

10.500

Riyal

41.2569

41.5236

1M

12.175

12.101

SDR

235.4372

236.9588

3M

13.328

13.225

6M

14.296

14.-85

FOREX RATES

R-DAS ($/N)

157.29

157.29

Interbank ($/N)

162.75

162.75

Parallel ($/N)

167.50

167.50

GOVT. SECURITIES YIELD – SECONDARY MARKET

Tenor

Rates

T-bills - 91

10.00

T-bills - 182

10.07

T-bills - 364

10.22

Bond - 3yrs

11.37

Bond - 5yrs

11.41

Bond - 7yrs

11.86

30

THE NATION MONDAY, AUGUST 25, 2014

EQUITIES NIGERIAN STOCK EXCHANGE DAILY SUMMARY AS AT 22-08-14

DAILY SUMMARY AS AT 22-08-14

THE NATION MONDAY, AUGUST 25, 2014

31

EQUITIES

Stakeholders flay delay in Stock Exchange's annual report, general meeting

N

EARLY eight months after the end of the financial year, stakeholders have condemned the inability of the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) to present its annual report and accounts and hold its annual general meeting within the best practice the Exchange enforces for its dealing members and quoted companies.

Stakeholders, who spoke on condition of anonymity, being subject to regulatory supervision of the Exchange, criticized what they described as doublestandard of corporate governance being implemented by the NSE, which sanctions quoted companies and stockbrokers for failing to submit their financial statement and accounts three months after the end of the reporting period.

Dealing members of the Exchange who are entitled to receive the Exchange's annual report and accounts and notice of annual general meeting at the weekend confirmed that they have received neither the annual report nor the notice.

However, a reliable source in the know of the undercurrents at the Exchange said the Exchange has concluded arrangements to publish its annual report and accounts and notice of annual general meeting.

By Taofik Salako Capital Market Editor

According to the source, the Exchange will send its audited report to its members and make all necessary public publications before the end of this month in order to comply with the mandatory 21-day notice of annual general meeting. The source hinted that the Exchange's general meeting has been scheduled for September 24.

Stakeholders said the Exchange should take the lead in corporate governance noting that while the Exchange enforces the stringent post-listing rules on periodic reporting for quoted companies and its dealing members which have complex operations, it should demonstrate the practicability of its rules by complying with the minimum standards.

They pointed out that the continuous failure of the NSE to meet the basic best practice that it sets for quoted companies and its members undermines the corporate governance at the market.

Post-listing rules of NSE states that audited annual accounts of companies should be submitted within three months after the year end while quarterly financial statements are expected to be made available 45 days after the

Oando, OER in $98m debtfor-equity swap

O

ANDO Plc and Oando Energy Resources have struck a debtfor-equity deal that would reduce the outstanding indebtedness of the latter to the former by $98 million.

A regulatory filing obtained at the weekend that OER, the upstream member of the Oando Group, has converted equity of principal and interest totaling $98 million under the outstanding $ 1.2 billion facility agreement dated 10 February, 2014 with Oando Plc into equities for Oando.

With this, $41 million of principal remains outstanding under the Oando loan and an aggregate principal amount of approximately $292 million remains available to be drawn under the Oando loan.

OER issued 68.14 million units to Oando Resources Limited, a subsidiary of Oando Plc, as repayment of amounts outstanding under the Oando loan at a conversion price of C$1.57 per unit. Each unit consists of one common share of the company and one-half of one warrant to purchase an additional common share at a price of CAD$ 2 per common share up until 30 July 2016, a 24 month period from which the company closed the acquisition of the Nigerian upstream oil and gas business of ConocoPhillips.

The terms of the units, other than the denomination of the conversion price and exercise price in United States dol-

lars, have the same terms as the units issued to third party investors and Oando Resources on previous tranches.

Prior to the completion of the conversion, Oando Plc owned, and exercised control or direction over, 677.96 million common shares, representing approximately 93.2 per cent of the issued and outstanding common shares.

As a result of the conversion, Oando Plc currently beneficially owns, or exercises control or direction over, 746.11 million common shares, representing approximately 93.8 per cent of the issued and outstanding common shares.

Where Oando decides to fully exercise these new warrants and warrants previously issued to it on previous tranches of the loan, Oando would beneficially own, or exercise control or direction over, 1.07 billion common shares, representing approximately 95.6 per cent of the company’s issued and outstanding common shares. However, Oando is restricted from exercising any warrants that would result in its ownership of the company exceeding 94.6 per cent.

Meanwhile, amounts owing under the Oando loan in the future may be converted into units at one or more prices to be determined in accordance with the pricing mechanism earlier determined and made public on February 10, 2014.

It should be recalled that OER recently concluded the acquisition of ConocoPhillips’ Nigerian oil assets.

end of the quarter. Stockbrokers, who are members of the NSE, are also expected to comply with similar rule.

While it does grant extension of a month, the NSE has been tough on implementing the rule on submission of reports. After the expiration of a onemonth extension on April 30, 2014, the NSE had imposed a weekly fine of not less than N100, 000 each on all the companies that failed to submit their 2013 audited annual reports and accounts by the expiration of the extended deadline.

The NSE had in a response to exclusive media enquiry by The Nation, stated that it has no intention to grant further extension of the April 30, 2014 deadline. The NSE stated that barely half of companies with December 31, 2013 year-end met the deadline and that defaulters will be sanctioned in line with Appendix 111 of the NSE Greenbook, which contains listing requirements.

Section 14 of the Appendix 111 states that "any late submission of accounts shall attract a fine of N100, 000 per week from the due date until the date of submission" while "a listed company who contravenes any of the provisions of the Listing Rules and General Undertaking and fails to pay the penalty imposed on it for such contravention on or before the due date shall be liable to a further fine of N300, 000 in addition to N25, 000 per day for the period the violation continues".

Besides, the sanctioned companies are

expected to state in their subsequent annual report details of contraventions and the sanctions imposed for such contraventions.

According to the NSE, there were 136 companies with December year-end but only 71 companies had submitted by the close of working hours.

"The Exchange has granted a one month extension to all listed companies irrespective of their year-end to submit their audited accounts and reports. There is no present intention to grant any further extensions," the NSE had stated.

The Nation's check indicated that the NSE then tagged 80 companies with its "Below Listing Standard" (BLS), which confirmed their failure to submit their audited annual reports within the deadline and also confirms the imposition of sanctions. The 80 companies included 65 companies with December year-end and some 15 companies with year-end within the previous year.

The sanctioned companies included Dangote Flour Mills Plc, National Salt Company Nigeria Plc, UTC Nigeria Plc, Continental Reinsurance Plc, Royal Exchange Plc, Capital Oil Plc, Aso Savings & Loans Plc, John Holt Plc, Deap Capital Mgt & Trust Plc and Juli Plc. Also, a report on sanctions and fines for similar defaults in 2013 showed that the Exchange slammed about N105.9 million on 48 companies that delayed their results. The fines ranged between

N200, 000 and N6.8 million.

The NSE had slammed some N60.2 million as fines on 34 companies for failure to meet deadlines for 2011 audited reports. With a range of N3.8 million and N100, 000, average fine for the year was N1.77 million.

When The Nation first exclusively reported concerns about the non-availability of the annual report of the NSE in May, NSE had responded that it has nine months to present its annual report and hold a general meeting of its members.

Head, Legal and Regulatory Department, Nigerian Stock Exchange, Ms. Tinuade Awe had noted that "under the Companies and Allied Matters Act (, Section 345), The Exchange is required to lay its financial statements before a general meeting of its members no later than nine months after the year end covered by the statements. Our plan is to convene the AGM for our 31 December 2011 year end, ahead of the 30 September 2012 deadline."

Market operators however had described the position of the NSE as unacceptable escapism noting that while the same CAMA and Investment and Securities Act (ISA) applied to all corporate entities, NSE had relied on its rules to impose sanctions on companies. They said NSE should be held to the same standards it set for quoted companies and market operators under its regulations.

demand, particularly from the pension funds.

Discussing the changing dynamics in the industrial goods sector, Yinkere pointed out that the strategic consolidation of Lafarge holdings across its Nigeria and South African businesses to become Lafarge Africa would have several implications for the competitive landscape of the cement industry.

According to him, using estimated installed capacity share as a proxy for the level of competition, there is likely to be a situation where the market is dominated by two big players in 2018Dangote Cement and Lafarge Africa.

Vetiva’s economist, Adedayo Idowu, estimated 2014 real GDP growth rate of the Nigerian economy at 6.0 per cent, ahead of the 5.49 per cent recorded in 2013.

According to him, with the political risks ahead of the 2015 general elections, Vetiva expects GDP growth to be driven largely by the industry sector at 25 per cent of GDP, as current government focus on economy diversification creates an upside for growth.

Going on to other economic indicators, Vetiva notes inflation and exchange rate performance would be the main determinants of monetary policy in the months ahead. The base case seems to suggest no further monetary tightening, with the Monetary Policy Rate (MPR) unchanged at 12 per cent over the second half of 2014;

although in the scenario risks to prices materialize, the MPR could be increased by as much as 100 basis points.

In his remarks, financials analyst Olalekan Olabode predicted a better second half noting that banks’ topline performance is likely be supported by loan growth and the recent reversal of ATM charges. He however added that charges by the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) would continue to be significant, accounting for an average of about 10 per cent of operating expenses for Vetiva’s coverage banks.

He pointed out that while the banking sector lagged behind the market in the first half largely due to unimpressive results, investors should anticipate better results in the second half as the liquidity support from capital raising boosts loan growth and also supports Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR).

On the contrary, Consumer Goods Analyst, Efemena Esalomi said that optimism for volume and earnings growth in the consumer goods space has been tainted by numerous and sustained challenges to consumer demand and cost management. Notwithstanding, Vetiva expects investors would rebalance their portfolios to more defensive stocks even as they predict strong earnings in the period.

What investors should watch out for, by Vetiva

I

NVESTORS should expect modest returns and intense portfolio reallocation as the financial markets grapple with the dynamics of the monetary tightening of the apex bank and the impending elections in 2015.

Analysts at Vetiva Capital Management Limited said they expected the second half to be characterized by cautious trades.

Head, research, Vetiva Capital Management, Pabina Yinkere, said the capital market would continue on cautious optimism.

Citing the main drivers of mild returns in the first half of 2014, Yinkere noted that consolidation news within the consumer goods and industrial goods space, assets acquisitions in the oil and gas space, as well as the reweighting of the MSCI Frontier market index provided some support to the market, amidst tepid earnings release.

He added that although stock specific news may continue to propel specific names in the market, the run up to the 2015 general elections poses a threat to returns as broader market sentiments remain cautious.

Consequently, Vetiva estimates 2014 return would be at best 5.0 per cent while investors are however likely to move to safer asset classes. Already with year-to-date return of 12.7 per cent, Vetiva anticipates modest gains for bonds on the back of increased local

32

THE NATION MONDAY, AUGUST 25, 2014

THE NATION

BUSINESS JOBS

• Cross section of mechanics

Automedics: Intervention by Oando, others creating jobs

Switching over to computerised auto repairs has been a challenge to many mechanics who find it difficult to repair modern vehicles. But Oando Plc has stepped in to bridge the gap. It plans to spend N100 million to train mechanics nationwide. This has opened a new vista of opportunities for vehicle repairers who are ready to embrace new techniques, writes ADEDEJI ADEMIGBUJI.

FOR three weeks, Uche Callistus has been battling with a Toyota High-lander 2013 model which gear has a challenge. At his workshop at the Ladipo Mechanic Village, Matori, Lagos, sweat cascaded from his forehead, through his cheeks to his hairy chest, yet he has no clue as to what is wrong with the gear of the Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV).

Using trial and error method, he felt he had eventually found the source of the gear problem, which has continually failed to transit from one level to the other, leaving the throttle to hoot while in motion.

He called the car owner, Mr.

cars, which are automated and powered by new technology, the jobs of mechanics have become more complicated than ever before when compared to what obtained in the past. While failure to admit lack of knowledge of this automated cars, many of them rather than reject such jobs, out of pride accept knowledge and capability to the diagnose and fix such modern but end up wrecking more havoc.

Automedics’ mobile repair is fast changing the face of business of automobile repair. The service which is a departure from old automobile repair, now brings to car owners comprehensive auto repair services that include car care serv-

Yemi Silver and told him that the gear had spoilt and that he would need to buy a new complete gear costing close to a million naira for the 2013 model of the car brand.

Without pressing him further on his findings, Silver called some friends who use the same type of car. Within a twinkle of an eye, Silver asked Uche to fix the car back and headed straight to an automedics in Lagos recommended by his friend.

According to reports, about 90 per cent of over 5,000,000 mechanics in Nigeria use “trial by error” method to diagnose the problems of automobiles. Their inability to understand the workings of new

ices, general services, undercar services, brakes, heating and cooling services, electrical services, transmission services, electronic services, engine services, towing, quick lube services, and wheel balancing, among others.

“The problem is that rather than go for training on new auto repair techniques, auto mechanics prefer to bury themselves in the cocoon of their workshops and consequently endanger lives of vehicle users with their guess diagnosis,” said the Chief Executive Officer of New Technology Auto, Mr. Kunle Badamosi.

To stem the development, there are efforts by various organisa-

tions and groups to train mechanics on automedics. Oando Plc has announced plans to invest N100 miilion to train auto mechanics.

With the investment, Oando said it is preparing mechanics to repair and fix modern vehicles. It plans to train 1,000 mechanics selected from Nigerian Automobile Technicians Association (NATA) and Motor Mechanics and Technician Association of Nigeria (MOMTAN), in Lagos.

The Head Marketing, Oando Plc, Mr. Babafemi Olabiyi, said •Continued on page 33

33

THE NATION MONDAY, AUGUST 25, 2014

JOBS •Continued from page 32

Oando Marketing is embarking on the project in collaboration with Automedics to train the 1,000 mechanics.

Starting with 100 trainees from both associations that will go through a three-week intense training on specialised fields, Olabiyi said the mechanics will not only be given technical knowledge but training on financing and customer relations.

He said the auto mechanics became imperative following a survey carried out by the company, which exposed lack of modern day knowledge of mechatronics systems in general and skill deficiencies of the mechanics.

He said: “The training of the 1,000 mechanics is therefore, part of our ongoing efforts aimed at providing solutions to the service and maintenance problems of high technology motor vehicles through the production of competent craftsmen who will be enterprising and self-reliant.

“The emerging crop of vehicles imported into the country is made of highly sophisticated combination of mechanical and electronics parts, which the average roadside mechanics do not understand.”

The Chief Operating Officer of Oando Marketing, Mrs. Olaposi Williams, said: “we have seen a gap in the system. In the past there used to be a lot of technical schools for training of mechanics and other professionals but that has dwindled. So we are partnering with Automedics who has the competence to train mechanics to empower them so that they can stand on their own to run mechanics industry properly using the right tools and the acquired efficiency and right products.”

She assured that Oando is ready to partner with other organisations that bring similar ideas on the table in other to reach more mechanics and deepen job opportunities.

The Chief Executive Officer of the school, Automedics, Kunle Shonaike, said the training will give Nigerian mechanics opportunity to make more money and serve automobile users better.

Shonaike returned from United States in 2005 to establish the school.

On his return, he observed the huge gap between Nigerian mechanics and US and decided to start the school to train more mechanics whom he said were repairing vehicles with ‘trial by error’ method especially when most technology of modern vehicles

• Shonaike

• Mrs Williams

• Alhaji Arowolo

Intervention by Oando, others creating jobs has gone digital and fully automated. As a result, he said the partnership with Oando to train the mechanics will go a long way in equipping the mechanics for their jobs.

“Ever since I returned to Nigeria from the USA, where I was trained professionally and practiced for more than two decades, to start practicing in the backstreet of one of Lagos’ slums, Mushin, I knew one of my life’s main purposes would be to help transform the predominantly obsolescent culture of the industry by training the artisans who dominate the workforce,” he said.

With the opportunities given to them, the Lagos State chairman of Automechanics and Technicians Association of Nigeria, Mr. Maruf Arowolo, advised the public to patronise mechanics that belong to the associations. He also urged members to embrace the opportunity offered by Oando to change the perception vehicle users have about them. Arowolo said this will restore confidence if his members embrace the new automobile repair approach.

According to him, the training will increase quality of service, increase profit and make the job more professional.

Also in Kaduna, Alhaji Abdullahi

Salihu, the Chairman, Nigeria Automobile Technicians Association, Kaduna State Chapter, said 30,000 members of the association had been trained to use improved automobile technologies in their work.

Salihu told NAN in Kaduna that 1,500 almajiri (pupils of local Islamic schools) had also been trained as auto mechanics this year. He said the use of improved technologies, such as computers in detecting faults in vehicles and replacing or repairing parts in cars, was a good development.

“We are updating ourselves at every opportunity. Our members have been carefully selected and trained by some automobile companies, such as Peugeot, Toyota, Kia and Honda, in mechatronics.

“The training is not limited to specific vehicles but comprise all sophisticated vehicles,” Salihu said.

Meanwhile, Olabiyi said the training is part of effort to create alternative wealth for the mechanics. “We also have another strand which is alternative wealth creation. We have other business within the Oando business portfolio like our O-Gas portfolio that they can also leverage. So it is a well thought out programme that involves making them world class

so that they can leverage emerging technologies to do their work better,” he said.

The company, according to Olabiyi, is also extending the training to managerial skills. “It is not only technical aspect which includes advancement in technology, computer and auto diagnosis, it also involves managerial too in terms of relationship with their customers and in terms of small scale financing and how they relate with their banks,” he said.

Meanwhile, an industry observer, Farouk Martins Aresa, believes there are greater opportunities for mechanics who embrace the new automotive repair technique. He said any mechanic that upgrades his skill will have a new window of opportunity.

He said: “The fear is that very soon, the skills of our mechanics may be limited to old cars and older men and women that work on them. The new trainees may eventually lose out on the new automobiles to work on since most of them are not made in Africa. The skills needed to work on new cars may have to be imported as we import some constructions materials and technicians for roads, bridges and sophisticated high rise

buildings.

“Anambra and Lagos States have reformed the old dirty mechanics we used to know and many of them are taking courses to upgrade their skills in high tech auto plants. The same applies to Kaduna and Ondo States’ mechanics who are encouraged with new facilities, locations and training to also prepare them for the new technology. So, ultramodern mechanic village was launched in Akure recently towards this goal.”

An expert in automobile, Mr. Kudus Oyekunle who runs an automedic in Alagbado Lagos, said it cost about N400,000 to start up an automedic for small scale mechanics. He said a mechanic will only need to acquire a location to operate from, adding that going computerised in automobile repair is the real deal.

On academic qualification that would be possessed by a beneficiary, the Lagos State Chairman of Automechanics and Technicians Association of Nigeria, Mr. Maruf Arowolo, said that beneficiaries must be members of any auto mechanics association but he explained that the associations have members that are university graduates. We have members that are well read, he added.

CAREER MANAGEMENT

A

How to find out if your boss is a coward

T trainings, I have always had to point out that been appointed a manager does not automatically make you manager, in terms of required skills, knowledge, aptitudes and attitude.

Neither does it make you a smart or effective or intelligent or compassionate nor influential manager.

You are basically what you are before you were appointed, unless you make conscious effort to learn and improve. So guys, you will always have poor, smart, foolish, competent, incompetent, inconsiderate, selfish, incompetent, mean, compassionate, friendly, unfriendly, approachable, careful, careless, thorough, sloppy, unapproachable, etc managers. Subordinates will just learn to ‘live’ with them.

In the same vein, there are coward bosses. How do you identify such bosses? Here are the vital signs to identify coward bosses

By Olu Oyeniran

He has others fire his direct reports This probably is the most cowardly act of the cowardly boss. I’ve seen this first hand, and probably so have you. If your boss does this, he likes having the authority of his position, but not the responsibility. And, he does not deserve you.

She will make a decision in private, and then fail to protect her people in public if it does not work

Or sacrifices subordinate to safe his face or job or to avoid reprimand for wrong decisions he had made. This is the classic behavior of someone who lacks confidence and is afraid of making mistakes.

And, she is someone you cannot trust.

She really never says

anything personal about herself

She does not make personal connections with people, putting herself above all else – even the company. She build a firewall around her past and present personal and professional life. She is someone who doesn’t really want you to get to know her. She is afraid you will see are for what she is- a coward.

And, if you think about it, why would you want to?

He slips in a negative comment about one of your colleagues in every conversation

You may think he’s complimenting you by confiding in you. But you can bet he does the same when speaking about you.

Sharp the receptivity of your antennae once your boss talks negative about a pair-he has a negative

tale about everybody around.

Thrives on /creates mistrust and uncertainty. Sure, he is a jerk.

He tells each person in private what the person “wants to hear,” which means he’s delivering different messages to each.

This is referred to as “divide and conquer.” Rather than having a consistent message and leading by example, he tries to control everyone around him. Manipulate is a better word, really. And everybody includes, bosses, peers, suppliers, etc. And, he is a truly terrible leader.

She will not have faceto-face meetings to resolve conflicts

This behavior goes hand in hand with delivering different messages

to each person. If she gets everyone in the same room to resolve differences, or expose and deal with problems, she can’t divide and and conquer. And, she has blown her cover. Hides behind meetings, mails, unclear official policies, politics, ‘business’, silence, ambiguities, etc As a consultant, I have worked directly with, and observed, people who are bosses. The best are genuine, expose their own weaknesses, deal with controversy directly, and do not sweep issues under the rug so they become larger problems.

The worst are cowards – and the way they go about trying to hide their insecurities have just the opposite effect. You can see their fear a mile away.

•Oyeniran is Lead Consultant, EkiniConsult & Associates. He can be reached on Jobsearchhow.com.ng Tel 08083843230 (SMS Only).

THE NATION MONDAY, AUGUST 25, 2014

34

THE CEO

‘Why Nigeria isn’t reaping from global aviation market’ To aviation expert Nick Fadugba, Nigeria has all it takes to play in the global market. But, the country, he says, cannot realise its potential because its airlines are “too small, weak and undercapitalised”. Fadugba, Chief Executive Officer, African Aviation Services Limited, tells KELVIN OSA-OKUNBOR, in this interview, that Nigeria is the butt of jokes worldwide for not utilising its “vibrant aviation market”.

H

OW can Nigeria stop for eign airlines from dominating its market?

The air transport situation in Nigeria is becoming very interesting.

From a few foreign carriers that were flying into Nigeria a few years ago, the number continues to increase by the day. Unfortunately, the foreign carriers have taken over the domestic market.

This development has been accelerated by the unfavourable aviation policies being signed by our government with other foreign countries- a policy that grants them (foreign airlines) multiple entry points into our county. This is detrimental to the growth and development of the domestic arm of the industry. At the rate we are going, the multiple entry points policy would damage indigenous operators.

But is it too late for government to rework the policy?

• Fadugba

‘It is not a good thing for Nigeria that its airlines carry only three per cent of the international air traffic. How can a country have such a vibrant air transport market and yet its own airlines don’t benefit from it? Every airline that flies to Nigeria makes good money, apart from Nigerian airlines. It is a paradox’ It is very, very difficult. Once you have given away your market in a legally-binding air services agreement, it is difficult to renege on the contract.

How do you tell a foreign airline that you have given, say, 10 frequencies, that you are reducing the number?

Even if we do so, do we have local airlines that can readily fill the

gap and provide the same efficient and high quality service? It has become a big problem for airlines in Nigeria because various Nigerian governments have been very generous in giving traffic rights, concessions, designations and entry points to non-African and African airlines alike. Meanwhile, Nigerian airlines are now left with just three per cent of the air traffic

market to and from Nigeria. African airlines collectively carry only 20 per cent of the air passenger traffic to and from Africa. Nigeria has the largest economy in Africa as well as the most vibrant air transport market on the continent. It is hard to rationalise and justify why Nigerian airlines have such a small share of their own market. But the fact remains that Nigeria is a sig-

natory to the Abuja Treaty of 2004 under which the Yamoussoukro Decision of 1999, liberalising African skies, is legally-binding. I believe that Nigeria should stand by the Yamoussoukro Accord and honour the Abuja Treaty.

There have been agitations to liberalise the African skies but some countries are kicking against it.

What is the way out?

The Yamoussoukro Accord was meant to open up the African skies to African airlines, but it has not been fully implemented by some countries. This decision is legally binding on African countries which have signed the Abuja Treaty of 2004, although some have still not enforced the Accord seemingly to protect their local airlines. Some countries are reluctant to enforce it and we have queried why they signed a legally binding agreement which they did not intend to implement. That is where we are today.

The fact is that if you take Nigeria as an example, a few local airlines are in a position to respond to the competitive challenge posed by Ethiopian Airlines, Kenya Airways and others. For example, Arik Air has traffic rights between Lagos and Addis but the Nigerian passenger traffic is normally going beyond Addis. Most Nigerian travellers are not going to Addis Ababa; they are going to Dubai and to China. I would have wished that when Arik Air entered into that agreement they had negotiated traffic rights beyond Addis Ababa, or formed a partnership to feed traffic to Ethiopian Airlines and vice-versa. This would have been a win-win situation for the airline.

Some Nigerian airlines are not yet ready to operate the regional and long haul routes that are currently available.

How profitable is it for a Nigerian airline flying into Dubai headto-head with Emirates?

Arik Air has started operations into Dubai from both Lagos and Abuja; we hope it would be able to compete with other carriers on that route. But going by past attempts by our local airlines on this route, it has not been a good experience.

For instance, the defunct Virgin Nigeria Airways tried this route for six months and then pulled out as it was losing too much money.

We have allowed African and nonAfrican airlines to have an unfettered entry into our local market and these carriers are now very well established. They (foreign airline) have diligently built up their customer base and captured market share. It will be very difficult for Nigerian airlines to successfully compete with these foreign carriers, but not impossible if they can provide an even better service.

What can be done to address this situation?

I believe it is time for a high level meeting of all aviation industry stakeholders to review where we are as a country, where we should be and how we can get there.

What should be the agenda for such a meeting?

We should review everything, including air traffic rights, market access, the Yamoussoukro Accord, the regulatory framework, aviation financing, aircraft fleet modernisation, aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO), joint ventures and partnerships, airport and air traffic control infrastructure, and many other issues. It should be two or three days of intense deliberation on the aviation challenges and opportunities facing Nigeria and the way forward.

We should address how we can salvage the aviation industry and collectively move it forward.

There have been meetings such as this in the past which obviously did not yield result. What will make this one different and what is the way to go?

What has happened in the past is •Continued on page 35

THE NATION MONDAY, AUGUST 25, 2014

35

THE CEO

‘Why Nigeria isn’t reaping from global aviation market’ •Continued from page 34

that either politicians or regulators formulate policies and rules for the industry. It hasn’t worked and it won’t work. For instance, look at the national hanger project, as well as the recent national airline project which was conceived behind closed doors. It was no doubt conceived in good faith, but there was no open discussion. It can never work, especially in Nigeria where everybody is very vocal and have their own opinion on every matter. So I would recommend that we sit down together and find practical ways to transform the Nigerian aviation industry.

Of course, as we have seen in the past, no matter how brilliant the proposals from such a meeting may be, there is no guarantee that in 10 years’ time the report will not be sitting on a shelf somewhere gathering dust.

So, implementation will be the key to success. Nigeria has opportunity to become a major aviation hub in Africa but it seems to have frittered away those chances.

Why is it difficult for Nigeria to float a successful national carrier?

Ideally, in 2004, the government should have privatised the loss-making national carrier, Nigeria Airways, rather than liquidate it. The government of Kenya followed this strategy and Kenya Airways is now one of the leading airlines in Africa. Running a successful airline is a very difficult job. You need deep pockets, a viable business plan, competent management and an enabling regulatory and economic environment to run a profitable airline anywhere in the world. Many Nigerian airlines today are disadvantaged from the outset, in terms of their aircraft fleet size and commercial viability and the operating environment. Captain Nogie Meggison, Chairman, Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON), recently told the African Aviation Summit 2014 and 23rd Air Finance for Africa Conference and Exhibition in Addis Ababa that the AON has 26 airline members and with an average fleet size of about three aircraft.

Now compare this to Ethiopian Airlines which currently operates 50 aircraft to 81 destinations across five continents with over 200 daily flights, and devoid of any real domestic competition. Government-owned Ethiopian Airlines has a turnover of over $2 billion and a net profit exceeding $200 million, so how can Nigerian airlines compete with such an airline?

In specific terms how do we build capacity for Nigerian airlines?

What I am saying is that in today’s world, for airlines to survive and prosper, they need a critical mass of aircraft and air traffic and an optimal route network. If you look at Arik Air, to its credit, it has most of the ingredients to be effective and efficient. It has the largest airline fleet in Nigeria, with over 20 modern aircraft, the largest route network and almost certainly the largest revenue turnover. So, the size and scale of an airline’s operations are important. It is very hard to compete against bigger African and international airlines with just a handful of aircraft.

Access to finance and equipment is central to a profitable airline business. How can Nigerian carriers key into this strategy?

Earlier this year, we organised the African Finance conference in Ethiopia where global leaders met to find lasting solutions to the problems of financing of aviation business. We also heard from several bankers who said it is difficult for them to finance small and weak airlines in Africa which lack business track record. I believe the message for Nigeria, especially if we take Ethiopia, Kenya, Egypt and South Africa as examples, is that airlines need a reasonably-sized fleet to be able to compete effectively.

On the other hand, all airlines must start somewhere. Smaller airlines can succeed if they keep very tight control of their revenues and costs, or focus on uncrowned niche markets. Captain Meggison said the AON has 26-member airline. In my view, many of these airlines are competing on the same routes in the country and hence it will be difficult for all of them to operate profitably. I would like to see airlines in Nigeria enter into mutually beneficial partnerships and joint ventures with each other which would enable them to become more efficient and profitable. In fact, the AON should be championing this cause.

What could the operators do to enhance their business?

All the airlines in Nigeria are owned by shrewd business people who, in addition to wishing to provide safe and efficient air serv-

• Fadugba

‘In 2004, the government should have privatised the loss-making national carrier, Nigeria Airways, rather than liquidate it. The government of Kenya followed this strategy and Kenya Airways is now one of the leading airlines in Africa. Running a successful airline is a very difficult job. You need deep pockets, a viable business plan, competent management and an enabling regulatory and economic environment’

• Fadugba

ices, also wish to make a decent return on their significant investment. Combining forces could help achieve these two objectives. I would like the airline owners, at least, those that are willing, to sit in a room, lock the door, and ask themselves: ‘How can

we work together?’If two or three or more Nigerian airlines joined forces they would have a larger fleet size and combined resources and would become more bankable and more formidable. I believe sincerely that Nigeria has all the ingredients for a success-

ful airline industry but many of the players are too small, weak and undercapitalised to take advantage of the market opportunities.

It is not a good thing for Nigeria that its airlines carry only three per cent of the international air traffic to and from Nigeria.

There is no other country in the world that would allow such a situation, apart from those with no airline industry and no sizeable air traffic market. You can imagine what Kenya, Egypt, Ethiopia and South Africa, etc, think of Nigeria. They believe this is a joke.

They can never understand why this is the case in Nigeria, of all places. In the aviation industry worldwide, nobody understands it.

How can a country have such a vibrant air transport market and yet its own airlines don’t benefit from it? Every airline that flies to Nigeria makes good money, apart from Nigerian airlines. It is a paradox.

What can government do to limit the frequencies and empower the domestic airlines?

I posed a question to Captain Meggison during the African Aviation Summit 2014 held in Addis Ababa. I asked him to list in order of priority the three most serious factors which are holding the Nigerian airline industry back. Whether it is the stiff competition from foreign airlines; a non-conducive aviation regulatory environment in Nigeria; or whether the problem rested primarily with Nigerian airlines in terms of their business strategies which have prevented them from competing effectively? These are the three key areas I believe deserve attention.

You see, government, and especially ministers of aviation in Nigeria should avoid the temptation of having vested interest in aviation projects; or having certain airlines which they favour. These practices have been the bane of the Nigerian aviation industry; and Nigeria has suffered the consequences.

In this regard, I would recommend that government ensures that all aviation decisions are based on national interest, rather than personal interest. Government should be commended for waiving taxes on imported aircraft spare parts and, working closely with the Nigerian aviation industry, it should explore further areas of possible assistance, so as to remove barriers to growth. In short, the airlines are trying their best to succeed, but the regulatory and economic environment in which they operate is quite tough. I always admire them for their efforts, but I believe they could be more successful by forming partnerships and joint venture.

African airlines have the highest insurance premium globally because of so many crashes. What does it portend for African and Nigerian airlines?

Aircraft insurance is compulsory for all airlines. You cannot fly without it. It is not an option for airlines. They must have it. Now, the pricing of aircraft insurance is fixed by underwriters who are mainly based outside Africa, such as at Lloyd of London. Underwriters rarely visit airlines directly. They fix the price based on numerous factors such as market capacity, historic and current losses, the overall airline industry safety performance, the loss record of individual airlines, and the size and value of airline fleets. Aviation insurance brokers contend that the cost of insurance has been reduced in recent years.

However, for many African airlines this may not have been the case. Unfortunately, according to International Air Transport Association (IATA) and International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), Africa has the worst air safety record of any global region.

Hence, its airlines are likely to pay more for their insurance cover. Also, due to their small aircraft fleet size, many African airlines pay proportionally more for their cover. In the main, large international underwriters do not rate small African airlines very highly.

To reduce their costs, it is advisable that African carriers work closely with leading insurance brokers and try to put across a success story to underwriters.

What is the way out for Nigerian carriers?

I think as a way out, Nigerian and African airlines could consider forming groupings to negotiate reduced rates through collective cover. This can be tricky though, especially if the airlines are very different in size and have contrasting safety records.USbased Delta Air Lines has a fleet of over 600 aircraft, more than the combined fleets of all African airlines. With that number of aircraft and with its safety track record you can be sure that Delta will obtain a lower insurance rate than the average airline in Africa insuring a fleet of less than 10 aircraft.

THE NATION MONDAY, AUGUST 25, 2014

36

THE NATION

BUSINESS INSURANCE

NAICOM, ICPC mobilise against corrupt operators T HE National Insurance Commission (NAICOM) has sought partnership with the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) to fight insurers who engage in corrupt practices, particularly in returned premiums through third parties.

Returned premium occurs when a policyholder seeks to cancel his insurance policy before end of the policy period, which is legal and allowed by the law.

However, insurers, brokers and agents connive to manipulate the policy by inflating the value of the premiums without the policyholder’s knowledge.

Brokers, who are intermediaries between the insurer and the poli-

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Stories by Omobola Tolu-Kusimo

cyholder (client), inflate premiums above the normal values, and afterwards, the surplus is shared by broker and others involved in the shady deal.

For instance, a broker negotiating for a N1 million premium on a particular cover for government or organisation, colludes with the underwriter and staff of an insurance company and inflates the premium to N1.5 million, after which the excess N.5 million is shared between the broker, underwriter and the staff involved in the deal. This inflation of premium is done keeping the client completely in the dark.

mission is to ensure protection of policy holders.

He added that insurance is built on the principle of utmost good faith and thus, every insurance practitioner is expected to uphold this principle in words and deeds.

He said: “We are seeking assistance of the ICPC in fighting corrupt practices in the industry particularly in the area of returned premiums. We assure that NAICOM will not tolerate returned premiums through third parties.”

The ICPC Chairman, Mr. Ekpo Nta, appreciated the board and management of NAICOM for the initiative.

He expressed the readiness of the ICPC to collaborate with NAICOM to ensure a corrupt-free insurance

sector in Nigeria adding that NAICOM has also improved insurance services in the country in recent years.

He said: “Insurance regulator has become more effective in recent years as evident in the prompt settlement of insurance claims by insurance companies. I am looking forward to such a time when Nigerians will go out of their ways to get insurance cover.

“The ICPC over the years have been working with regulatory bodies in the monitoring of activities within their sectors saying that it is faster and cheaper to adopt this model in checkmating activities of operators in the various sectors through the regulators.”

KBL settles N249m claims in six months

BL Insurance has paid N249 million claims in six months, the company’s Head, Corporate Communications, Nwakerendu Ike, has said.

According to a statement by Ike, the management of the company has assured its customers and the general public, that it is focused on excellent service through prompt claims settlement.

It stated: “This is part of efforts to ensure customer satisfaction and increased market share.

“The organization is committed

to 48 hours claims settlement once all documents have been received and customer ensures prompt notification of loss and submission of all relevant documents in order not to delay claims settlement.

“KBL which is in the process of rebranding having changed its corporate identity from Insurance PHB is also focusing on capacity building to further empower its workforce, while continually reengineering its internal processes to ensure and maintain speedy service delivery at all times.”

LASACO deploys ICT for insurance penetration

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During the meeting between the two federal agencies in Abuja, NAICOM Chairman, Governing Board, Hon. Chibudom Nwuche, urged the ICPC to join hands with the insurance regulatory body in the fight against fraudulent transactions or activities in the insurance industry. He said the collaboration will help deepen insurance penetration in Nigeria.

He told the ICPC that while NAICOM is saddled with regulating the insurance industry, it does not have the requisite powers of enforcement especially in terms of arrest and punishment of fraudulent culprits.

NAICOM Commissioner for Insurance, Fola Daniel, reiterated that the primary responsibility of the com-

ASACO Assurance Plc has eased the process of consumers having access to its numerous products through sale of products online real-time.

The LASACO customers are able to obtain and pay premiums for their products on line.

Speaking on the strategic initiative of LASACO Assurance to support its marketing efforts with information computer technology (ICT), the ICT Head, Deji Ogundele, explained that LASACO is committed to ensuring its numerous customers as well potential ones enjoy seamless service satisfaction using the instrumentality of ICT. “The ICT operations is on 24/7 basis to ensure seamless flow of the processes so that our customers can enjoy great customer experience. Our products are sold through e-payment systems; awareness campaign; and development of knowledge in various electronic and print media. The world is actually going digital and more transactions are done online realtime.

“We have put in place a number of platforms to effectively reach out to our numerous and potential clients by embarking on digital marketing and also making it more accessible through the various social media market platforms. Once the desired product is purchased, several alternative channels are available to make payments easier.”

He said payments can be made through bank branches nationwide, Quickteller, point of sale (POS), and our e-commerce portal in a seamless manner, adding that these alternative channels of payment are built on a world class web-based integrated solution, which combines the core insurance businesses with powerful administrative and marketing tools.

LASACO Assurance’s use of alter-

native channels is a great boost to the Federal Government’s initiative of promoting cashless economy, which is the best global standard practice of driving the economy.

He stated that LASACO’s operating ICT tool is Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP), therefore, whether the company’s operatives are in the office or out in the field, ERP empowers them to be more productive by providing a highly functional system that meets international standards. It also automates document storage and retrieval, enhances communication links with customers, provides online/ real-time access, ensures effective security and auditing both internally and externally and very scalable.

“In order to stay ahead of competition, LASACO ICT processes are continuously reviewed to meet up with the dynamic demands of valued clients with a view to ensuring that the retail marketing is enhanced and more accessible to our numerous clients.

In addition to this, the company is also committed to marketing retail insurance through well trained agency system for effective penetration into the huge population of Nigeria that is yet to be fully maximised.

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• Delta State Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan(right) and Group Managing Director /CEO, First City Monument Bank (FCMB) Mr Ladi Balogun at the CBN’s 8th Annual Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Finanance Conference and Entrepreneurship Awards in Abuja.

Rofenik, others to sensitise traders, artisans on insurance A CONSORTIUM of consultants comprising of Rofenik Associates and Investments Limited, First Fiducia Projects Limited and Green Focus Global Services, in collaboration with the Association of Commodity Market Women and Men of Nigeria, is planning a workshop to sensitise traders especially the micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

The workshop themed “What if it happens,” will hold in October and is expected to create pragmatic activities to encourage insurance for the businesses of market women and men.

The Managing Director, Rofenik Associates and Investments Limited and Chief Coordinator of the workshop, Femi Ogunjemade, made this known in an interaction with reporters in Lagos.

Ogunjemade said insurance awareness among traders and artisans in the country is still very low hence the need for more enlightenment. He said for a typical market woman or man, the most pronounced risk category is the hazard risks such as fire,

burglary, flood, collapsed buildings, among others.

He noted that it is important that “What if it happens,” it cannot be avoided and neither should it be retained, therefore, to manage the risk, the impact of occurrence is reduced through sharing. The sharing partner is the insurance company.

He said: “Without any iota of doubt, insurance business in Nigeria is largely unpopular and still not accepted by a large proportion of the populace. This is apparent but regrettably, lack of interest in insurance has contributed to the slow growth in the industry, which is evident in the fact that most insurance companies listed on the daily official list of the Nigerian Stock Exchange are trading at their par values.

“Many people who embrace insurance still do so out of compulsion either by regulatory authorities or law enforcement agencies. Many times, motorists embrace third party insurance because that is one of the

made this known, said the Evening would be utilised by management of the company led by its Managing Director, Mr. Godwin Odah to prospect for greater chunk of the nation’s insurance market through insurance brokers, who are believed to control the critical chunk of the country’s insurance business.

He said aside the professional interactions, the forum will also be

utilised to add the voice of the insurance sector to the containment of the dreaded Ebola virus, through presentations by health professionals invited to grace the occasion.

The bi-monthly event has become a veritable platform for professional interaction between brokers and host underwriters, in a bid to make the insurance industry cohesive and robust.

Union Assurance hosts brokers tomorrow

HE Nigerian Council of Registered Insurance Brokers (NCRIB), will tomorrow hold the Council’s Members’ Evening.

The event, which will hold at the Insurance Brokers House, Yaba, Lagos will be hosted by Union Assurance Company Limited.

The Assistant Executive Secretary of NCRIB, Tope Adaramola, who

documents required by Vehicle Inspection Officials (VIOs).”

The Managing Director, First Fiducia, Shuaibu Ottan, said the importance of a strong and productive Insurance industry to the development of a nation and its economy cannot be overemphasised.

According to him, the trading sector, though largely informal, is a major employer of labour, yet the insurance business especially at the micro and small trading levels, has not been made attractive, therefore, traders and most MSMEs have looked at it only from cash outlay point of view.

Ottan said it is in the light of the foregoing that the workshop is being organised.

He said: “Part of the deliverables will aid the acceptance and prioritisation of insurance policies, which would be appreciated by the public, especially the traders.

“The need for cheap and affordable policies would be appreciated by the practitioners and removal of all hurdles on timely payment of claims shall be carried out without unnecessary or perceived stress. Participants will also be more enlightened on steps to take for the protection of their wares, and taking policies would be seen as important and necessary when setting up a business or doing business. There will also be a measure of comfort and peace of mind in knowing that there is a disaster recovery option while doing business.”

THE NATION MONDAY, AUGUST 25, 2014

37

BUSINESS XTRA

Nigeria, others to benefit from Dangote’s $5b power investment

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RESIDENT/Chief Executive Officer, Dangote Group and Africa’s wealthiest man, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, has said the Nigeria, Ghana, Togo and Tanzania are the countries that will benefit from the Group’s fresh investment capital.

Speaking at the United States (U.S).Africa Business Forum in Washington on Bloomberg Television’s “Market Makers,” the business mogul said the money will be invested in power generation, distribution and transmission infrastructure, adding that the deficit between what is available and what is needed is “enormous”.

He said: “Well, it is going to be in the sub-Saharan African countries, mainly Nigeria, Togo, Tanzania, and Ghana, the likes of them. We are going to really invest this money in terms of generation of power, transmission of power,

By Lucas Ajanaku

distribution of power, infrastructure, in terms of gas pipelines, to make sure that we unleash the opportunities.

When you look at it really, the gap especially in power generation in Africa it’s enormous.

“And we saw that and then we agreed that, look, let us now team up, the big corporations to put money (down in the ratio of) 50/50. We are already going to go into a 50/50 agreement where they put 50 per cent of the money, you put 50 per cent of the money and we will roll out.

Speaking on the Chinese footprints on the continent, Dangote said the Chinese do not engage in 50/50 partnership, adding that they prefer to go on their own.

“Well, the Chinese, normally they don’t actually do 50/50. They hardly

take locals. They go on their own. But the Chinese are not in the kind of things that we are doing. And they’re not normally in cement, energy and power.

“They are in railroads, but they are also - mainly Chinese companies are looking for contracts to do things, or mineral sources. And what we are trying to do now is to say: hei look, we don’t want people to now come and take our mineral resources. We want them to process these mineral resources locally so that they develop our own people, they can train our own people. That is the way it can be a win-win situation,” he said.

He restated the commitment of the Group to building its 500,000 barrels of oil refinery with a petrochemical complex with it in the country.

“Actually, it’s not about execution. It is about is the demand growing. And the answer is yes. The demand is growing.

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• From left: President, Advertisers Association of Nigeria (ADVAN), Mr Kola Oyeyemi; Director-General, National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), Chief Emeka Mba; CEO, Ultima Limited, Mr Femi Ayeni and Registrar, Advertising Practitioners Council of Nigeria (APCON), Alhaji Garba Bello Kankarofi, during a breakfast session with the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), on ‘Digitalisation of the Electronic Media’, in Lagos ... at the weekend.

NCAA boss urges development of aviation

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HE Director-General, Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Benedict Adeyileka has urged airlines to put in place programmes that will enhance the development of the sector.

He spoke when the winners of the British Airways' Leaders of Tomorrow paid him a courtesy visit in his office in Lagos.

He said initiatives, such as the BA’s Leaders of Tomorrow programme, could play an important part in bringing new expertise and international best practice to the sector.

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Under the programme six students of the Nigeria Aviation College of Technology, Zaria had a two-week internship in Lagos and London.

The NCAA chief praised the airline for choosing the college as its partner.

"We must commend British Airways for this laudable initiative. This is a development programme for the youth in the aviation industry and has proved that British Airways is not only concerned about its commercial operations in Nigeria but also giving back to the country in a

big way," he said.

He urged other corporate organisations in aviation to emulate the airline by making meaningful contributions to the sector.

BA’Country Commercial Manager, West Africa, Mr. Kola Olayinka said he hoped that the firm’s programme would contributed to the sector’s growth.

"As the largest economy in Africa, Nigeria needs a strong aviation sector. Leaders of Tomorrow is our contribution to this and we expect big things from the winners in the coming years."

Kenya Port traffic to rise by 5%

ENYA’s Mombasa port may handle five per cent more cargo this year and construction of a second container terminal at East Africa’s busiest seaport is running ahead of schedule, according to the state-run harbour authority.

Throughput may climb to 23.5 million metric tons in the year from 22.3 million tons last year as a result of “an improvement of economic performance,” Managing Director of Kenya Ports Authority Gichiri Ndua said on August 20 in the capital, Nairobi. Tonnage increased 13 per cent to 11.9 million tons in the six months through June from a year earlier, Ndua said. The port also handles trade for landlocked Uganda, Rwanda, South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The first phase of building the container terminal to handle 450,000 twenty-foot equivalent units, or TEUs, a year is two-thirds complete and the

facility will probably be ready by the middle of next year, ahead of the March 2016 goal, he said.

Kenya’s port is facing competition for customers from neighboring Tanzania, to the south, where the government is investing to upgrade the main Dar es Salaam facility and building a new port north of the commercial hub in Bagamoyo.

It takes 3.5 days for shipments to pass through Kenya’s port, down from 18 days last year, after an reorganisation of the systems and management, President Uhuru Kenyatta said in June. Kenya is building another international port in Lamu, north of Mombasa near the border of Somalia.

The second container terminal being developed in Mombasa will be expanded to handle 1.2 million TEUs. The existing container facility processed 894,000 TEUs last year, from

903,000 in 2012, amid uncertainty as the country held its first national elections since 2007, when violence after the polls left more than 1,100 dead and displaced another 350,000.

The port city is facing increased security threats, with the U.K. government closing its consular office there this year.

Britain, the U.S. and are states advising travelers against non-essential visits to the city over “terrorism” threats. The city, also a tourist hub, is one of the places in Kenya that has suffered gun and grenade attacks in recent months, which the government and police have blamed on al-Qaeda-linked militant group, alShabaab.

Imports handled by the Mombasa port increased 12 percent to 10 million tons in the first half of this year, exports climbed 14 percent to 1.7 million tons and transshipments, or cargo that changes vessels at the port, rose to 106,000 tons from 72,000 tons.

Lufthansa Cargo flies to Lagos

UFTHANSA Cargo has integrated Lagos into its own network through twice-weekly freighter flights.

From September 15, a Lufthansa Cargo MD-11 freighter, would take off from Frankfurt for Lagos twice weekly.

Lagos is an important destination for the oil and gas industry in particular. Urgently required spare parts and equipment for oil production facilities can now be transported even faster to Nigeria, and with greater flexibility. A total of 170 tonnes of capacity will be available each week to Lufthansa Cargo customers on this route from September.

Following a brief stop, the freighter will fly on to Johannesburg. The return leg to Frankfurt will include a stopover in Nairobi. Another two weekly flights from Frankfurt to Johannesburg will also stop in Nairobi on the southbound flight.

“Adding Lagos to our freighter network considerably strengthens our involvement in West Africa”, emphasised Carsten Wirths, Vice President Europe & Africa at Lufthansa Cargo. In Nigeria alone, Lufthansa Cargo offers freight capacity on board Lufthansa Passenger Airlines flights to three destinations. Besides Lagos, Lufthansa also flies to Port Harcourt and Abuja with an Airbus A330.

Accra, Malabo, and Luanda are further destinations in West Africa.

Deutsche Lufthansa AG is an Aviation Group comprising

Overland connects Bauchi, Abuja

VERLAND Airways has announced the take-off of flights to the new Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa International Airport, Bauchi.

Overland flights depart Abuja at every Monday, Wednesday and Friday and arrive Bauchi while the return flights on these days depart Bauchi and arrive Abuja.

According to the Chief Executive Officer of Overland Airways, Capt. Edward Boyo, “the new Sir

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Abubakar Tafawa Balewa International Airport will enable Overland Airways serve the good people of Bauchi State more efficiently and offer flight connections between the state and other cities in the Northern Region to further fulfill the Airline’s objective to facilitate air transportation between the major cities of Nigeria”.

Capt. Edward Boyo congratulated the Bauchi State Government and Governor Isa Yuguda on embarking on the project.

MAN holds 42nd AGM Thursday

HE Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) plans to hold its 42nd Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Thursday in Lagos.

The AGM has as theme, Positioning manufacturing for global competitiveness: Challenges and prospects will have President Goodluck Jonathan as

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nearly 500 subsidiaries and affiliates. The Lufthansa Group is dedicated to quality and innovation, safety and reliability.

Headquartered in Germany, the Group operates in five business segments – passenger transportation, logistics, MRO, catering and IT-services.

Passenger transportation is the Group’s core business: The airlines engaged in the passenger transportation business are Lufthansa German Airlines, Austrian Airlines, SWISS and Germanwings as well as stakeholdings in Brussels Airlines, JetBlue und SunExpress.

In the 2013 business year, the airlines in the Lufthansa Group welcomed more than 104 million passengers on board their flights, making it Europe’s leading airline grouping.

Operating through the Frankfurt, Munich, Vienna, Zurich and Brussels hubs, Lufthansa, SWISS, Austrian Airlines and Brussels Airlines jointly serve 274 destinations in 106 countries on four continents. The Group fleet currently consists of 622 aircraft – on order are another 295 new aircraft, valued at a total of about 36 billion euros at list price and scheduled for delivery until 2025.

With its ongoing expenditure in fleet renewal, the Group is consistently making the fleet more cost-efficient and its operations more environment-friendly.

Last March, the Lufthansa Group employed around 118,000 staff. In the 2013 business year, it generated revenues totalling 30 billion euro.

the special guest of honour and Coordinating Minister for the Economy/Minister of Finance Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala as guest speaker.

The Minister of Trade and Investment, Mr. Olusegun Aganga, and Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babatunde Raji Fashola are special guests.

Golden Penny wins award OLDEN Penny Spaghetti has received the African Quality Achievement

Award.

It is okayed by the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), Africa Quality Institute, Ghana Standards Authority, Rwanda Bureau of Standards, Kenya Bureau of Standards, the South African Quality Institute and other quality assurance organisations.

Golden Pasta, a division of Flour Mills Nigeria PLC, launched the Golden Penny Pasta Brand 20 years ago in Apapa, Lagos. Its plant in Iganmu was inaugurated in 2003; and about 10 years later, the second plant was opened in Agbara.

The integration of the factory at Iganmu into the Flour Mills family was a move to strengthen the ability to respond to growth of the group to meet demands.

The firm aims at achieving world-class manufacturing and with the full support and absolute commitment of the top management, which provides

required resources and exemplary leadership; and through gradual process of enlightenment of the workforce and a follow-up of agreed actions, Golden Pasta was able to put in place a Quality Management Systems that meets the requirement of NIS ISO 9001:2008 standard.

ISO 9001:2008 is acclaimed as a customer-oriented certification, which imbues the confidence of consumers through known improved and superior operational, financial and market performance of certified brands.

Golden Pasta says it is committed to the manufacture of superior quality pasta products that satisfy our customers, consumers and meet statutory and regulatory requirements.

The brand has recorded tremendous growth and success through its commitment to delivering quality products and enhancing customer satisfaction, thereby making it the leading pasta brand in Nigeria and in Africa.

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THE NATION MONDAY, AUGUST 25, 2014

BUSINESS MOTORING

Powered by a dual CVVT Kappa 1.25litre all-aluminum engine that emits quiet and smooth operation, the Hyundai Grand, assembled in Nigeria will delight drivers looking for exceptionally low weight cars that maximise fuel consumption, writes TAJUDEEN ADEBANJO

• Hyundai Grand

Unveiling Nigeria-assembled T Hyundai Grand

HE Hyundai Grand has proved a point that a comfortable and spacious car does not have to be cumbersome. And that exactly was Hyundai Motors' conviction when it went to the drawing board to design this exceptionally cultured B-segment budget car that has become the toast of most automobile freaks worldwide.

Manufactured only in petrol variant for the Nigerian market, the Grand, assembled in Nigeria, offers light weight and robust five-speed manual transmission that enhances smooth and accurate gearshift for optimum performance.

The feature-packed Hyundai Grand responds to every expectation with alluring cabin colour, textures and shape that lend it a sport appeal that could easily make any large car envious.

From whatever angle one views the car, it is evident that Grand was crafted to meet the utmost need of the customer.

Grand is a whole new level of art innovation which ordinarily gives the car an unimaginable feel.

It shows a sharp styling with a whole new level of innovation that attests to brilliantly crafted exterior that leaves an everlasting impression on all those who catch a glimpse of it.

The newly designed clear headlight clusters for instance, not only look good, they improve driver's night vision and on-road visibility with extra safety.

Hyundai Grand is also equipped with chrome-coated radiator grille positioned to perfection to project strong presence.

The outside mirror repeaters are aerodynamically sculpted while the outside mirror is ornamented with LED repeaters for enhanced looks and safety.

Inside the car, the front and rear seating ergonomically designed bucket type front seats gives the car a premium feel with spacious and cushioned rear seats and adjustable headrests assure ample support and comfortable seating.

This is in addition to the liberal boot space to accommodate weekend luggage with bench folding function that provides an extra flat load space.

Powered by a dual CVVT Kappa 1.25litre all-aluminum engine that emits quiet and smooth operation, the Grand will delight drivers looking for exceptionally low weight cars that maximise fuel consumption.

Hyundai Motors Nigeria, Sales and Marketing Head Mr

Jatin Nadkarni expressed delight as he took delivery of the first set of Hyundai Grand cars assembled at the Hyundai Motors Nigeria plant in Lagos.

Nadkarni said: "The world is changing every day, so we decided to also change the way people communicate with each other by introducing the Hyundai Grand - a car that lets you share a new language with the world."

The Grand's aerodynamic designed bumper reduces forward air flow resistance and the rear spoiler effect enhances fuel economy and driving stability.

The Grand may be compact in look; its makers did not compromise on safety. The structural safety of the Grand which utilises anti corrosive steel, ring structure application to enhance the rigidity and body robustness while its Anti-lock brake system (ABS) prevents skidding and retains the car's steer ability on slippery surfaces. This mechanism also enables stable braking and restricts wheel lockup during panic braking

Porsche posts mid-year profit

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ORSCHE AG can look back on a very successful first half of 2014. Deliveries covering the period from the beginning of January to the end of June rose by eight percent compared to the same period last year to 87,803 vehicles. Revenue went up in the first six months by 16 percent to 8.2 billion euros. Operating profit grew by eight percent to 1.4 billion euros, which is equivalent to a return on sales of 17 percent. Jobs as at June 30, reached the record number of 21,326 employees. This is 18 percent or 3,178 persons more than a year ago.

Lutz Meschke, member of the Executive

Board Finance and IT at Porsche AG, emphasised the efficient organisation and the high cost awareness within the company. This is the only way to sustainably achieve a return on sales of at least 15 percent. In his outlook, Meschke pointed out the rising burden caused by the ambitious investment programme which Porsche is implementing in its Strategy 2018.

"The resulting depreciation and rising labour costs pose an ever increasing burden on our results. Add to this the very high expenditure for research and development, in particular in connection with reducing fleet

carbon emissions," he said.

Despite all this, Meschke confirmed that Porsche intends to achieve at least the same level of results in fiscal year 2014 as in the previous year.

The extensive investment programme was visible at all locations in the first half of 2014.

In February, the sports car manufacturer opened a comprehensive factory in Leipzig with its own paint shop and body assembly line for production of the Macan. Porsche invested over 500 million euros here. Total investments at Porsche's main plant, which includes a new body assembly line, will

‘ ’

amount to over 700 million euros in the coming years.

Chairman of the Executive Board of Porsche AG, Matthias Mueller, said the sports car manufacturer is keeping solidly to its course of value-creating growth.

"We are investing in ground-breaking future technologies such as the plug-in hybrid drive and in promising market segments," Mueller said.

Mueller is convinced that Porsche is "absolutely on the right path with its enormous efforts".

THE NATION MONDAY, AUGUST 25, 2014

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THE NATION MONDAY, AUGUST 25, 2014

Taxation

Guidelines on tax exemption for NGOS

A

NON-GOVERNMENTAL organisation (NGO) is an association of persons registered under Section 590 of the Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA) 1990. Upon registration of the association, the body corporate may contract in the same form and manner as an individual in accordance with Section 605 of CAMA 1990. It is to be noted that by virtue of the provisions of Section 23 of the Companies Income Tax Act (CITA) any organisation registered under any law within the federation or any part thereof as a co-operative society shall also be treated as an NGO. NGOs include organisations, institutions and companies engaged in ecclesiastical, charitable, benevolent or educational activities of a public character. Many countries, including Nigeria have recognised the significant role being played by these organisations in building a strong, caring and well-functioning society as well as in contributing to its welfare and economic growth. In recognition of this, government grants tax incentives to such organisations in form of exemption of their profits (other than those derived from trade or business carried out by them) from income tax and zero rate of Value Added Tax (VAT) for their humanitarian services.

The role of the tax authority is to ensure that these tax incentives or benefits are appropriately enjoyed and not abused and that the obligations associated with the tax benefits are complied with by the NGOs. Therefore, these guidelines are to check possible abuse and ensure standardization.

Legal basis Section 23(1) of the CITA Cap C21.LFN 2004 states that the profit of any statutory, charitable, ecclesiastical, educational or other similar associations are exempted from CIT obligations provided such profits are not derived from any trade or business carried on by such an organisation or association.

Where an NGO engages in any trade or business, the profit derived there from will be subjected to income tax as provided for in the Act. Also, where the NGO invests its assets in any institution, the income derived from such investment shall be subjected to tax. It should be noted that Capital Gains Tax (CGT) shall arise where assets are disposed of by the NGOs at a gain.

Case Laws A relevant case is that of Arbico Ltd Vs FBIR, (1996) 2 All NLR 303. The plaintiff in the dispute, Arbico, had acquired a plot of land, erected a building and sold the property at a profit. The

‘NGOs include organisations, institutions and companies engaged in ecclesiastical, charitable, benevolent or educational activities of a public character. Many countries, including Nigeria have recognised the significant role being played by these organisations in building a strong, caring and well-functioning society as well as in contributing to its welfare and economic growth’

company was subsequently assessed for tax on the proceeds of the sale of the property. The company objected to the assessment on the basis that the transaction was a one-off and did not constitute “trade”. The case was, ultimately, settled in the Supreme Court.

In the ruling, the court laid down two important precedents: • Firstly, that the word ‘trade’ should be interpreted in its widest sense in accordance with its common everyday meaning; • Secondly, that an isolated one-off transaction can still constitute a ‘trade’.

Tax reliefs available to NGOs In addition to the income tax exemption granted to NGOs as noted above, Section 25(3) of CITA provides that any company making donations to such an organisation listed under the fifth Schedule to CITA shall enjoy tax deductible donation not exceeding 10 per cent of the total profits of that company for that year as ascertained before any deduction of such donations is made and must not be of capital nature.

Goods purchased for use in humanitarian donor funded projects are zero rated under the VAT Act Cap V1 LFN 2004 as amended.

Registration with FIRS by NGOs All NGOs are expected to register with the nearest tax office of FIRS with the following documents: • A copy of registration certificate issued by Corporate Affairs Commission.

• Certified copy of memorandum or constitution, rules and regulations governing the NGO, • List and profiles of the trustees/board members nominated; one of the trustees/board member must be a serving government official from relevant government agency responsible for the activity of the NGO; • Copy of the Tax Clearance Certificate (TCC) of each of the Trustees and Filing of returns by NGOs In line with section 55 of CITA, it is mandatory for all NGOs to file a tax return every year and such return shall contain: • The audited accounts, tax and capital allowances computations and a true and correct statement in writing containing the amounts of its profits from each and every source computed in accordance with the provisions of CITA; • Such particulars as may by such form or return be required for the purpose of the Act and any rules made with respect to such profits, allowances, reliefs, deductions or otherwise as may be material by virtue of the CITA; and • A declaration to be signed by a director or secretary of the organization that the information contained in the return is true and correct.

Responsibilities of the tax office • Clarification of tax status: An NGO seeking clarification on its tax exemption status shall direct such enquiries to the tax office where it was registered and the NGO desk in the relevant office shall process the enquiry and respond to it.

• Application for TCC: An NGO shall direct its application for TCC to the tax office where it was registered and file its tax returns. The relevant office shall process the application and issue the TCC if the NGO is found qualified and if unqualified be given reasons in writing within two weeks

• Acting Executive Chairman, FIRS, Alhaji Kabir Mohammed

Mashi

of the application.

• Monitoring : The relevant tax office shall monitor the activities of NGOs within its jurisdiction regularly to ensure compliance with the provisions of the tax laws.

Other statutory obligations of NGOs In addition to its obligation to file tax returns at the appropriate tax office, NGOs are statutorily required to: • Maintain accurate record of employees; • Maintain proper books of accounts • ‘Deduct Pay-As-You-Earn from employees’ salary and remit same to the appropriate tax authority; • Pay VAT on goods and services consumed except those purchased exclusively for its humanitarian projects or activities; • Pay tax as and when due on non-exempt activities.

Failure to comply with the above requirements will attract appropriate the penalty prescribed by law.

It is to be emphasised that the fact that an NGO is exempted from payment of income tax does not remove the obligation to file returns regularly. It is also to be emphasised that profits derived from business or trading are liable to tax. All NGOs should abide with the tax regulations to continue to enjoy the tax incentives granted by the government in furtherance of their charitable activities.

‘It is to be emphasised that the fact that an NGO is exempted from payment of income tax does not remove the obligation to file returns regularly. It is also to be emphasised that profits derived from business or trading activities are liable to tax. All NGOs should abide with the tax regulations to continue to enjoy the tax incentives granted by the government in furtherance of their charitable activities’

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Monday, August 25, 2014

Ancelotti: Di Maria is leaving but Khedira will stay

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MONDAY AUGUST 25, 2014

POLITICS THE NATION

E-mail:- politics@thenationonlineng.net

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has begun the distribution of Permanent Voters’ Cards. MUSA ODOSHIMOKHE examines the controversy that has trailed the exercise and how the commission is tackling the challenge.

Controversy over permanent voter’s cards C

RITICISMS have continued to trail the distribution of the Permanent Voters’ Cards by the Independent Electoral Commission (INEC). Fears are being expressed by prospective voters that they may not vote in the next year’s election because the cards are elusive. The exercise is critical to the general elections.

INEC’s Director of Information and Communication Technology Mr. Chidi Nwafor said that the introduction of PVCs would make the elections credible. He said the cards would erase the problems of identification and authentication, thereby and affirm voters’ right to vote.

Since 2011, the agency had planned to replace the temporary cards with the new cards. Seventy three million prospective voters were targetted.The INEC’s Technical Committee had approved the printing of 40 million cards for the first phase. The commission explained it would cost about N2.6 billion. It was supposed to be ready before Decenber 2012. But, the plan was not realised due to administrative bottlenecks.

The first phase of the distribution took place between May 23 to 25 in 10 states. The states are: Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Enugu, Abia, Benue, Kogi, Zamfara, Kebbi, Taraba and Gombe. The INEC has claimed that the exercise was successful in the first phase. Chief Press Secretary to INEC Chairman Mr. Kayode Idowu told The Nation that 71 per cent success was achieved. He said the commission would improve on the success.

The second phase kicked off last week in 11 states-Bauchi, Yobe, Jigawa, Sokoto, Kwara, Ebonyi, Anambra, Ondo, Oyo, Delta, Cross River -and the Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). Governors declared holidays in some affected states to enable people to collect the cards.

But, some stakeholders are of the view that the commission has not lived up to expectation. Their fear is that, if the polls will hold in six months, the commission may not be able to complete the exercise without any hitch. Oyo State Governor Abiola Ajimobi said the exercise, though laudable, is not farreaching. He feared that the INEC may up disenfranchise many eligible voters. He urged the people to collect their cards to prevent hijack by election riggers.

Many people have complained that the INEC officials have not reported for distribution in designated centres.This has lent credence to the insinuation that the PVCs were being hoarded to prevent the authentic owners from collecting. Others believe that the distribution of the cards for the 2015 election is late.

The agency had planned to use the PVCs for the Anambra State governorship election last year.

But, due to administrative bottlenecks, the it was shelved. Critics frowned at the cancellation. In their view, the commission was not ready to provide a level playing ground for the electorate.

Political parties have complained that the conditions for securing a PVC is too stringent. To get a replacement for a lost card, an individual is expected to obtain police

• Dr Jonathan and his wife, Patience, waiting to collect their Permanent Voters’ Cards (PVC) in Otuoke, Bayelsa State.

• Prof. Jega

permit or court affidavit.

A Lagos-based businessman, Tommy Obakhedo, said the process is cumbersome and worrisome.

He added: ‘’The three days mapped out for the exercise is grossly inadequate. INEC should not only extend the period for the distribution, but create more centres across the country.’’

The Chairman of Conference of Political Parties in Nigeria (CNPP), Alhaji Balarabe Musa, said that PVCs may not ensure credible elections. He pointed out that it may not prevent rigging by the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Musa explained that the electoral commission is not independent, adding that it would always do the bidding of the President.

He added: ‘’Who produces the PVCs? Is it not the INEC? Is the INEC independent of the government? The President can call the Chairman of INEC and tell him

• Momoh

what to do. The INEC cannot refuse taking orders from the President.

Nigeria cannot guarantee free, fair and transparent election under this condition. ‘’What determines election in Nigeria is the power of incumbency and the balance of terror. The government in power can always rig elections. The President can decide the type of election materials to be used. How are we even sure that the PVC distribution will be achieved? Efforts have been made in the past to make use of the PVC, but without success.We should always review PVCs regularly, but this has not been done. There is no guarantee that this will work in Nigeria in the foreseeable future.”

University of Ibadan don Prof.

Oyesoji Aremu said the INEC may not conduct a credible election next year. He recalled that when he travelled to Osun State to collect his PVC, what he saw was wor-

• Agoro

risome According to him, many people complained about their inability to collect their cards. He also pointed out that many eligible voters could not vote during the governorship election in Osun State because of inadequate preparation by the commission.

Aremu said: ‘’If the 2015 election is few months away and the INEC is just distributing PVCs, then, there is a serious problem. How are they going to speed up the process to enable the distribution? My concern is that even the ones that were used in Ekiti and Osun states were nothing to write about.

“Now, we are talking about the election of the President. The preparation is too sudden. This ought to have taken place before now. People ought to have collected their PVCs so that they can study them and understand their usage. If the INEC is just distributing the PVCs, and with what happened in Oyo

‘What determines election in Nigeria is the power of incumbency and the balance of terror. The government in power can always rig elections. The President can decide the type of election materials to be used. How are we even sure that the PVC distribution will be successful? Several efforts have been made in the past to make use of the PVCs, but without success’

State, where some people said they did not see INEC officials, I think there are more challenges ahead.”

Former Minister of Information Prince Tony Momoh said the main challenge is the management of the exercise. He appealed to stakeholders in the electoral process to educate the people on the importance of the cards. He said the introduction of PVCs would improve the conduct of elections.

But, Momoh described quest for credible elections as a joint responsibility involving the cooperation of all. He said people must be ready to defend their votes by ensuring that they the votes are counted in their presence.

Momoh said: ‘’The use of PVCs in is a welcome development. But, there is the allegation of unwillingness to hand over these cards.

People should have the cards.

There should be a comprehensive voter’s education. If we can embark on voters’ education by INEC and political parties. ‘’People should rise against hoarding. We had thousands of cards not used in Osun election because the INEC could not give them to their owners. We had to tell the commission to provide the serial number of the cards so that people do not use them to rig elections. Some people who are registered and are entitled to hold the cards should demand for them.”

A chieftain of the National Action Council (NAC), Dr. Olapade Agoro, said the introduction of new cards may not be a panacea for fraudulent elections. He said, Osun and Ekiti, where the cards were used for elections, the people were intimidated and harassed. He said, although people showed genuine interest in the election, the commission created artificial problems that prevented eligible voters from obtaining the PVCs. Agoro said: ‘’Of what value is the PVC, if the owner of the card cannot make use of it? People just make noise. The PVC is the democratic right of the owner. A lot of people have been denied the use of PVCs. ‘’In Osun State where they deliberately hoarded the cards to subvert the wishes of the people, they were disgraced. Out of over one million people who were supposed to vote in Osun State, only 600,000 people were able to collect their PVsC. Of what use is the card, if it cannot be secured by its authentic owner?”

Many prominent citizens have enjoined Nigerians to obtain the PVCs. They described the cards as a veritable tool to protect their interest in future elections. The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar, said the PVC is a weapon against oppression. The monarch, who spoke at the Sultan Maccido Institute of Quran and General Studies, Sokoto, said: ‘’As a citizen of Nigeria, if you don’t have the PVC, you cannot vote in the 2015 election. In fact, obtaining this card is compulsory for all adults to get the desired change.

So, Imams and Islamic scholars should obtain it.’’

As the commission continues with the second phase of the exercise, stakeholders are urging INEC officials to avoid the mistakes and shortcomings that nearly marred the first phase.

THE NATION MONDAY AUGUST 25, 2014

44

POLITICS PDP chieftain backs CoS for Delta governor

T

HE Chairman of Delta State Waste Management Board, Chief Olori Magege, has urged the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to field the Chief of Staff, Dr. Festus Okubor, as its governorship candidate for the next year’s election.

He said the politician is the most experienced among the aspirants.

Magege predicted victory for the party, if Okubor is endorsed as the flag bearer, adding that he will defend the legacies of the Uduaghan Administration, if elected as governor.

He added: “My predictions have never failed. I am telling you that Dr. Festus Okubor is going to be the next governor of Delta State. Make no mistake about it. I have predicted once, twice, thrice, even up to four or five times in the past, and they have all been accurate. So, I don’t see how this one would not be different.”

Urging Urhobo people to build bridges across ethnic nationalities, Magege, a high chief from Agbarho, said that Okubor will work for the progress of Delta State.

He urged Deltans to support the Chief of Staff, who he described as an advocate of egalitarian society and principled politician who has served the state in many capacities without blemish.

‘Jonathan can re-contest’

P

EOPLES Democratic Party (PDP) stakeholders in Akwa Ibom State have urged President Goodluck Jonathan to declare his second term ambition in the national interest.

They said that the state would give him a bloc vote because he has lived up to expectation in the last six years.

Governor Godswill Akpabio, who spoke on their behalf in Uyo, the state capital, during the President’s visit, said the people were ready to work for his victory at the poll.

He said: “Our dear President, let me state that you are in your home. Akwa Ibom people do not only love you as a President from the Southsouth, they also appreciate you as a brother and true Nigerian, who is committed to changing the fortunes of the nation.

“Twice this year, Akwa Ibom people, in an uncommon resolve, unanimously passed a vote of confidence on you and your administration. In furtherance to their conviction, they urged you to step forward and contest for the office of the President in 2015. That yearning is still aflame and they have kindly waited for an answer. Your Excellency, the people of Akwa Ibom people are steadfast and will go with you all the way.

“Inspite of the challenge of insurgency facing the country, Akwa Ibom people say sail on. Sail on for evil may thrive for a night, but joy comes in the morning.

Sail on, keep moving, we are with you. We shall never retreat nor surrender, for the truth is stronger than falsehood. We shall overcome because history, truth and most importantly, God Almighty, is on our side.”

Akpabio thanked President Jonathan for justifying the confidence reposed in him by the people, stressing that he has defended democracy in the country. He said the achievements of the President are visible in the power sector, aviation, the expansion of the national infrastructure, the promotion of the local content of policy, and the restructuring of the economy President Jonathan thanked the people for their love and support for his administration. He commended Akpabio for his developmental strides, stressing that the projects are of high quality.

He also commended the private sector for contributing to the development of the state, advising the governor to always create an enabling environment for the private sector to thrive.

The Minister of Petroleum Resources, Mrs. Diezani Alison-Madueke, said she was impressed by projects in the state. She said the commissioning of the Uquo Gas Plant facility at Esit-Eket and the Methanol Industry at Ibeno was historic, noting that it would boost the development of the oil and gas sector.

The minister said the projects would create jobs for youths and supply gas to the Calabar Independent Power Plant (IPP), Cross River State.

Lagos 2015: Politicians unfold ambition

By Emmanuel Oladesu

A

LL Progressives Congress (APC) chieftains in Lagos have been unfold ing their ambition, ahead of next year’s general elections.

Former Chief Press Secretary to former Lagos State Governor Bola Tinubu, Comrade Kehinde Bamigbetan, has unfolded his ambition for the House of Representatives in Osodi/Isolo Constituency 11. The out-going Chairman of Ejigbo Council will face the federal legislator, Hakeem Muniru, at the primaries. In Osodi/Isolo Constituency 1, the Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Hon. Lateef Raji, is warming up for the primaries. He is interested in the House of Representatives slot.

In Lagos Mainland, party sources said that the out-going Chairman of Yaba Council, Hon. Jide Jimoh, may obtain the nomination form for the House of Representatives. The grassroots politician was a member of the House of Assembly between 1999 and 2007.

In Kosofe Constituency, the Commissioner for Housing, Hon. Bosun Jeje, is warming up for the House of Representatives election. Also in the race are former Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs Commissioner Prince Rotimi Agunsoye and the youth activist, Alhaji Oluwatoyin Balogun, the leader of Total Loyalty Association.

In Lagos East Senatorial District, former Somolu Council Chairman and member of the State Executive Council, has informed the party leadership about his ambition to contest for the Senate. He said: “Since it is now clear that Senator Gbenga Ashafa is interested in the governorship, the seat will be vacant in 2015.

I am contesting to serve our people in the National Assembly”.

In Alimoso Constituency, aspirants are also jostling for the House of Representatives seat. The federal legislator, Hon. Solomon Adeola, is said to be eyeing the senatorial slot in Yewa Division of Ogun State. Among the contenders for the House of Representatives slot are the Information and Strategy Commissioner, Hon. Lateef Ibirogba, House of Assembly member Hon. Bisi Yusuf.

However, a top APC chieftain said: “If the deputy governor, Hon. Joke OrelopeAdefulire, shows interest in the slot, she will be highly favoured by constituents and the party leadership”.

A journalist, Abiola Folayan, has declared his interest in the House of Representatives at Ifako/Ijaye Constituency. He is challenging the federal legislator, Hon. Yomi Ogunsusi at the primaries.

Hon. Jerry Kumdisi is the Chief Whip of the Adamawa State House of Assembly. In this interview with VINCENT IKUOMOLA, he speaks on his governorship ambition and other partisan issues.

‘Why I want to rule Adamawa’ W

HY do you want to be the governor of Adamawa State?

I have been nursing the ambition for some time. I had expressed my interest in the position long before the impeachment. I had even started my campaign, although not in the open.

I have won election three times and I have gone round the state. So, I am familiar with the problem of Adamawa. The people of Adamawa also know the kind of person I am.

They know how I have represented them at the House of Assembly. I also know that I will give Adamawa a new direction, totally different from what it used to be. I believe my chances are very bright.

You know that we impeached our governor recently. You don’t impeach someone who is doing well. If you do that, the people of the state would chase you out of your house.

The former governor was out of tune with the people.

But, you gave Nyako a vote of confidence some months ago?

I agree that there was a vote of confidence, but we all know how that confidence vote came about. It may be of no value to begin to dissociate myself from the action because, if the House takes a decision, whether you voted for or against such a decision, it is binding on you. You are bound to be part of it.

But, some of us didn’t agree with the confidence vote. But, we were in the minority. We didn’t have the voice to say that this vote of confidence cannot stand. The way our democracy operates is that sometimes, when some members want to get favours from the executive, they engage in praise singing. It happens in all the states.

Why did it take the House more than seven years to realise that they needed to remove Nyako?

Everything has its time. When things like that were going on, the governor had his own men. But gradually, those members fell out with him and joined some of us that had not been with him from the beginning.

Is it true that members of the House were paid to impeach the former governor?

Reward from who? What favour or reward were we looking for? As far as I know, we didn’t do it because we wanted a favour from anybody. We impeached Nyako because he was not doing well for the state.

Secondly, as people who were supposed to be working together, he didn’t think that we mattered in the administration of the state. As our

• Kumdisi

governor, we had the right to ask for certain things from him. One of such things was our constituency projects.

We expected that every member ought to get it so that he or she can execute some projects in his or her constituency and remain relevant.

But, since Nyako came to power a little more than seven years ago, he awarded contracts for constituency projects only once. I was part of it. I have been in the House since 2003. I know the governors that were there before him. I can tell you what they did and what they didn’t do.

What was the role of the Presidency in the impeachment saga?

Nobody induced us to impeach the governor. I am not aware of any inducement from anywhere. If you talk of those that worked with Nyako in his early years, I was one of them.

But, we fell out because he didn’t do what we expected from him. Even before his ouster, there had been pre-

‘When you involve your family in governance, you cannot change anything because they will dip their hands in so many things and places.

And because you didn’t stop them, you may not have the moral fibre to prevent others from dipping their hands in places that you don’t like’

vious moves to impeach him.

I was part of those who wanted to impeach him when President Umaru Yar’Adua was in power. We served him the impeachment notice then, but because he was still in the PDP and the party was one family, we were called to a meeting in Abuja and told to stop the impeachment move. We told them what the governor was doing and yet, he was not called to order by the party.

We tried to resist the intervention, but the late President Yar’Adua asked the Vice-President, Goodluck Jonathan, to sit with us because he was traveling abroad. We agreed on certain things with the governor. He was asked to implement the agreement, while we were asked to drop the impeachment move. We did as agreed.

When I was coming for the third term, the same Nyako denied me the PDP ticket. I went to the defunct Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) and won my election. I returned to the PDP after our inauguration. It was the same Nyako that begged me because he knew that, if I was not there in my local government, he would not have won my council during his bid for a second term in office.

He told me that he did everything he could to ensure that I was defeated in the election. He said he was sorry for doing all that and pleaded with me to return to the PDP for us to work together. Election was coming and he needed everybody around at that time to help him to win. That was how I returned to the PDP. Why are the mistakes of Nyako, which you will avoid, if you become the governor?

One other major mistake Nyako made was to involve his family in government and governance. His wives were in government fully.

His first son left the Navy where he was a commander to come and became the de facto deputy governor to his father. His children were playing one role or the other in government.

Our Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) unit was headed by his younger brother’s son. So, his government was dominated by members of his family. The government was popularly referred to in Adamawa as ‘Family and Friends’. If you mention ‘family and friends’ in the presence of any Adamawa person, he or she will know you are referring to Nyako.

When you involve your family in governance, you cannot change anything because they will dip their hands in so many things and places.

And because you didn’t stop them, you may not have the moral fibre to prevent others from dipping their hands in places that you don’t like.

• Chairman,Yoruba Obas Conflicts Resolution Committee, Olugbo of Ugboland Oba Obateru Akinruntan (left) and Secretary of the group, Sabigana of Iganna, Oba Soliu Oyemonla Azeez, after their deliberations on the outcome of the National Conference in Ibadan, Oyo State capital.

THE NATION MONDAY, AUGUST 25, 2014

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THE NATION MONDAY, AUGUST 25, 2014

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

With ekpoita :funtreatsvilla@yahoo.com / 08077706130

DOWN

ACROSS

1. Misfortune (4)

1. Canoe (4) 4. Price (4)

2. Keen (4)

7. Container (4)

3. Until (3)

8. Father (2)

4. Gonorrhea (4)

9. Tack (4)

5. Range (4)

11. Not Near (4)

6. Prostititute (4)

13. Final (3)

10. Insect (3)

14. Wasted (5)

12. Gave food (3)

15. Indicating location (2)

14. Pig’s pen (3)

17. Grain (3)

15. Skill (3)

19. Unit (2)

16. Verruca (4)

21. Aid in crime (4)

18. Asia (4)

24. Pain (4)

19. Exclamation (2)

26. Eggs (3)

20. Tide (4)

27. As it is (2)

22. Boyfriend (3)

28. Narrated (4)

23 Fish (3)

29. Net (4)

25. Expression of surprise (3)

WORD PUZZLE Find alternative words to the clues below and fill them in their spaces in the grid.When you are done another word for ‘APPEALING’ would be spelt. The first one has been solved to spur you on.

ShOwBiTz

poetry

Rosie O’Donnell Marries Michelle Rounds

A B A T E

ROMANCE Romance came at morning love story without end we stole a kiss by the river the haven of love way down in the glen soprano voices came hither ecstasy lingered then with the bliss of romance.

Only a shy young maiden was I how could my heart ever know that love was steadily seeping into the innocence of my soul?

A week after announcing that she had suffered a frightening heart attack, the TV host has revealed that she tied the knot with fianceé Michelle Rounds on June 9, her rep confirms to E! News. “Rosie and Michelle got married in a private ceremony in New York on June 9,” O’Donnell’s rep tells E! News...

Alba Unveils New Blond Hairdo for Stripper Role in Sin City Sequel

CLUES 1. Ebb 2. Fact 3. Vagrant 4. Awaken 5.Turn Away

Romance came with glory love’s fable now I pen we fell in love one September at a haven of love way down in the glen your kind caress I remember I was eager to dance on wings of true Romance.

HUMOUR

Teacher & Student Teacher :What happened in 1809?

Student: Abraham Lincoln was born.

Teacher :What happened in 1819?

Student: Abraham Lincoln was ten years old

- Joyce Hemsley.

Feelings

Gorgeous Jessica Alba took a lighter approach to life by debuting a new blond ‘do over the weekend. And it was all in the name of work: The 31-year-old is currently prepping for her role as stripper Nancy Callahan in the highly anticipated sequel to 2005’s Sin City.

Pep Talk

Hunger, temptation longing laughter, joy and tears.

Anger, loving, curiosity hopeful, happiness and fears.

All these are inside me And they all are coming out.

Don’t know if I’m coming or going Jennifer Or to scream or shout!-

6. Crawl 7. Flatter 8. Inaction 9. Speak out 10.Occurrence

Wilson.

Teacher: How old is********** your dad.

Student: He is as old as I am.

Teacher: How is it possible?

Student: Because he became a dad only after I was born.

A gift for girlfriend Man 1: I want to buy a gift for my girlfriend for her birthday but I don’t know what she would like. Give me a suggestion.

Man 2: Does she like you?

Man 1: Yes Man 2: Then she would like anything.

A well-cultivated mind is, so to speak, made up of all the minds of preceding ages; it is only one single mind which has been educated during all this time. - Bernard de Bovier de Fontenelle

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THE NATION MONDAY, AUGUST 25, 2014

THE NATION MONDAY, AUGUST 25, 2014

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THE NATION MONDAY, AUGUST 25, 2014

52

SHOWBIZ

Uduaghan plans film village in Delta

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•Uduaghan

Ugbomah, on Thursday, Uduaghan observed that Delta State was playing key roles in the entertainment industry, as most of the Nigerian actors, actresses, comedians, musicians and journalists are either Deltans or have links to the state.

He said his administration was committed to investing in the areas of entertainment and tourism, noting that the film village was based on the fact that Delta State remains Nigeria’s entertainment hub and pre-eminent destination for film producers and actors.

He commended Ugbomah for producing films on the gains and challenges of the oil industry, adding that such films were in line with his administration’s Delta Beyond

PPLAUDING what he described as Nollywood’s movie image role in Nigeria, Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan of Delta State said he was ready to build a world-class film village that would change the face of the film industry in Nigeria.

The Governor, who is set to provide a piece of land for the take-off of the project, explained that the construction of a film village in Delta State was in line with his administration’s human capital development and would also serve as encouragement to the Nigerian film industry which mirrors the ills of the society, while ‘marketing’ the country to the world.

Speaking during a courtesy visit by a Delta State-born film producer, Chief Eddie

Oil programme.

“Some of your films like the Oil Doom and the Black Gold are in tandem with our development model of Delta Beyond Oil,” Governor Uduaghan said, adding that “they expose the negative aspects of crude oil because an oil economy is not a sustainable economy; it has its challenges.”

He emphasised: “Though we are an oil-producing state, we are using the oil money to develop other areas of the economy, so we associate with the ideals of your films.”

Uduaghan congratulated Ugbomah on his 74th birthday and 50th anniversary as a film producer and assured him of his administration’s assistance in the establishment of a gallery in the state.

Jimmy Jatt outshines 2face with new single

•Soundsultan with DJ Jimmy Jatt

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ROUND-breaking disc jockey, Jimmy Adewale Amu, popularly known as Dj Jimmy Jatt, has just shot the video of Glasses Up, a song off his second album called The Industry. The move marks another achievement in the career of the artiste, as the album is already topping the iTunes Nigeria music chart, displacing 2face’s new album, The Ascension, which had been number one since its release on July 26.

Glasses Up serves as the anniversary theme song of JimmyJatt’s 25 years cel-

ebration in the music industry. Shot in Lagos, the Afrobeat inspired sound track was produced by Tee-Y Mix and directed by Patrick Elis.

It features award-winning artistes such as 2face Idibia, Sound Sultan and Burna boy.

“Glasses Up is a toast to my friends, fans, supporters, well wishers who have stayed true to my music and for the support in the past 25 years,” said JimmyJatt.

When he came out with a single entitled Stylee in 2007, Jimmy Jatt made waves as an innovative disc jockey who thinks outside the box. The success of the song ,which fea-

tured 2face Idibia, Mode 9 and Elajoe, a d d e d crest to his car e e r , earning him seve r a l awards such as Channel O A f r i c a Music Video Award, Hip hop World Award, SoundCity Music Video Award, Nigerian Music Video Award and Nigerian Music Award nominations.

Determined to beat the records of his previous work, The Definition, a 26-track mix tape featuring over 50 of Nigeria’s best artistes, including D’banj, 2face Idibia, Banky W, Ice Prince, Vector, Olamide, Waje, Skales, Zaina and Phyno, the work has been adjudged the biggest collaborative album out of Africa.

Tuface Idibia loses father to prostate cancer

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WARD-winning singer, Innocent Idibia, is in grief, following the passing on of his father, Mr. Michael Idibia, at the weekend, at an Abuja-based hospital after a protracted battle with prostate cancer.

It will be recalled that about two months ago, the sensational singer disclosed that his late father, an alumnus of the Kansas State University, USA, had started receiving treatment after he was diagnosed of cancer.

Pa Michael Idibia, who retired from the Ministry of Agriculture, Makurdi, Benue State, is survived by his wife, Mrs. Rose Owoyi Idibia, four children, grandchildren and siblings.

In a statement, the family said: “With sadness in our hearts, but with gratitude to

God for a life well spent, we announce the passing on of our father, brother, uncle and in-law, Mr. Michael Agbo Idibia, a native of Okpokwu Edumoga in Benue State.

September date for Omoni Oboli’s Being Mrs Elliott

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OTABLE actress, Omoni Oboli, who last week, screened her new movie, Being Mrs Elliott at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, is set to take the flick to the cinemas, with release date already fixed for September 5.

The movie, which opened the Nollywood Week Film Festival in Paris three months ago and got 11 nominations at the Nollywood and African Film Critics’ Awards (NAFCA) in California, USA, is the story of a successful married woman who is torn between two worlds after a life-changing incident. She finds out that the best that life has to offer is nothing but moments.

Sponsored by MRS, Access Bank and Keystone Bank, the private screening at the Aso Villa was attended by top dignitaries, including President Goodluck Jonathan; Vice-president Alhaji Namadi Sambo; Minister of Petroleum and Natu-

All set for MTN breakdance show

•Tuface

Regarded as one of the pioneers of Nigerian Hip hop music, Jimmy Jatt began his career by collecting rap albums from the ‘70s and ‘80s, owing to his strong interest in Hip hop.

Jatt, who has a TV programme called Jimmy’s Jump Off, has performed on the stage with American singers, including Usher Raymond, Shaggy, Eve, KC1 and Jojo, Naughty by Nature, Carog Wheeler, Magic System, David Hyden and Sean Paul, among others.

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HE journey to Braunschweig, Germany, in the MTNsponsored MTN Battle of the Year breakdance competition has begun, with auditions slated for Lagos.

Starting with a qualifier this weekendat Koga Studios, Ikeja, the telecommunications company will be giving the youth an opportunity to showcase their dance skills on the biggest stage in the world.

The screening is expected to feature the best and most

Adugbo Music Competition berths

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XYGENJAY Studios, in partnership with Almedia International and Lagos Television (LTV), is putting together the Adugbo Music Competition, a talent hunt initiative that will involve up-and-coming artistes and youths in general within and outside Lagos State.

Speaking on the competition, CEO, OxygenJay Studio, Tosin Osibajo, said: “It has been observed that most of the existing highly desirable music talent

ral Gas, Mrs. Diezani Alison-Madueke; Governor of Ondo State, Hon. Olusegun Mimiko; Chief Edwin Clark; Minister of Information, Chief Labaran Maku; Minister of Culture, Tourism and National Orientation, Chief Edem Duke; Mr Ben Bruce; GovernorElect, Ekiti State, Ayodele Fayose; filmmaker Mahmood Alli-Balogun; CEO of AFRIFF, Chioma Ude; film director, Mildred Okwo; CEO, Bigsam Media, Samuel Olatunji; cast of Being Mrs Elliott; comedian AY; Lepacious Bose; Chika Chukwu and Tomi Adeoye, among others.

Speaking on the movie, President Jonathan said: “Being Mrs Elliott is a good movie. I particularly like the element of reality in it. We are a people of strong culture and that is what Being Mrs Elliott has projected. It is a beautifully told story that everyone can relate to. I recommend this movie and encourage everybody to go and see it at the cinema.”

hunt competitions tilt towards Western music, thereby shutting out a large number of talented youths with interest in African renditions and percussion.

“Adugbo Music Competition will be all-embracing, as it will feature five categories of music, including Hip hop, Dancehall, Juju, Fuji and African rhythms. It has been designed to elicit the agelong spirit of communal (Adugbo) contest, engender curiosity, sense of belonging and quest for victory among the various adugbos (areas), such that viewership will cut across people of all ages and so-

cial status across the country.”

The overall winner, he revealed, would be crowned the Asiwaju of Nigerian Music for the year running at a colourful prize-giving ceremony to be attended by dignitaries from all over the country.

The overall winner will walk away with a branded Kia Magentis salon car, while the first, second and third runnersup will get a recording deal.

According to the organisers, entry will close on September 30, as the car prize is already secured and on display at LTV Agidingbi, Ikeja, Lagos.

innovative breakdance crew from across the country.

After the qualifiers, the one-on-one side event will take place at the Silverbird Galleria on Saturday, August 23. The National Finals follows next day at the indoor sports hall of University of Lagos.

The organisers said the best crew would travel to Braunschweig, Germany in October to represent Nigeria at the international breakdance competition.

Last year, Space Unlimited crew represented the country at the international finals that held at Volkswagen Halle, Braunschweigh, Germany.

The crew beat competitors such as 3ple DK from Jos, Oomph from Benin and others to win the sole ticket to represent the country.

The competition, for this year’s ticket is expected to be intense and exciting, starting with the screening at the weekend.

Host of the show is popular Andre Blaze, a former Rhythm FM presenter and anchor of Nigeria’s Got Talent reality show.

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THE NATION MONDAY, AUGUST 25, 2014

NEWS

Niger East: APC plans to unleash thugs, alleges PDP T

HE Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Niger State branch, said yesterday that the All Progressives Congress (APC) plans to unleash thugs on the electorate to disrupt Saturday’s Niger East by-election.

The opposition party, however, said it was the ruling PDP, which has engaged thugs since the start of the campaigns.

APC alleged: “Thuggery is synonymous with PDP. The party has been using thugs to harass people because its candidate is unpopular.”

The PDP Deputy Chairman, Tanko Beji, alleged in a statement in Minna yesterday that APC hired thugs from neighbouring states and

•‘Ruling party guilty’

From Jide Orintunsin, Minna

gave them maps of the places to unleash terror in order to disrupt the election.

He alleged that the mission of the opposition party was “to cause confusion to either manipulate or frustrate the process.”

The PDP chief decried the manner APC was going about the election, saying: “The planned action of the opposition party shows that it is far from being prepared for the next general elections.

“The opposition in Niger State need to be schooled on the basic values of electoral practices. They have failed to realise that politics is not all about thuggery, blackmail or propaganda. Niger APC must understand that election is not a do-or-die affair.”

APC Publicity Secretary Jonathan Vatsa dismissed the allegation, accusing PDP of being guilty of the allegation.

He said APC members were law-abiding.

“It is the ruling PDP that has

money for thugs. Thuggery is synonymous with the party. It is only crying and accusing APC because its candidate is not popular. The noise is a face-saving device in the impending defeat on Saturday.

“PDP has been using thugs to destroy the billboards of our candidate. The hoodlums are also tearing his posters.

We have reported this to the security agents. The party is engaging thugs because it wants to force its unpopular candidate on the people.

“PDP has tax payers’ money and it is using it as well as the local government funds for thuggery because its candidate is not popular,” Vatsa added.

APC hails Kwara South indigenes on registration

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HE All Progressives Congress (APC), Kwara South Stakeholders’ Forum, Lagos State chapter, has hailed Kwara South indigenes for travelling home to participate in the Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) registration.

It urged them to vote during the coming general elections so that their efforts would not be in vain.

The group said the people of the senatorial district should support the second term bid of Governor AbdulFattah Ahmed.

At a meeting at the Teslim Balogun Stadium, Surulere, Lagos, the forum deliberated on governance in Kwara State and on the 2015 general elections.

The participants resolved that Kwara South should prepare for the general elections

By Tokunbo Ogunsami

by mobilising their people in Kwara, Lagos and other states.

They said individuals’ financial contributionsý and corporate sponsorship were necessary for the mobilisation.

It was suggested that zonal committees should be constituted to organise mobilisation for the poll.

The people hailed Governor Ahmed’s achievements not only in Kwara South, but also in all parts of the state.

They said Kwara South indigenes should be active politically to take their destinies in their hands.

“Our people resident in Lagos should be closer to their communities and be well informed about the activities going on there.”

PVC: Council boss decries INEC’s arrangement From Tayo Johnson, Ibadan

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HE Caretaker Chairman of Ido Local Government Area of Oyo State, Prof. Adeniyi Olowofela, has condemned the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for its shoddy arrangement for the Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) registration.

He spoke during his visit to Anglican Primary School Ward 9, where registration took place.

Olowofela said the equipment available to the INEC officials were inadequate, adding that if things continued in such manner, many eligible voters would be disenfranchised.

Said he: “In Ward 1, of 800 people, only 50 registered. In Ward 2, of 780 people, only 71 registered. Ward 3 is not different. That was how it happened in all the wards in the local government.

“If things continue like this, there is no way eligible voters will not be disenfranchised.”

Olowofela urged INEC Chairman Prof. Attahiru Jega to provide more machines.

“The election cannot hold in 167 days’ time with this kind of arrangement. Among the 80,000 people willing to register, only about 100 have been registered.”

Kogi to distribute 160 transformers •From left: Fidelity Bank representative, Mr. Wale Jegede; MD/CEO DAT Multibiz Intercontinental Ltd, Alhaji Folawiyo Bello; Vice Chancellor, University of Ilorin, Prof. Abdulganiyu Ambali; Registrar, Mr. Emmanuel Babafemi and Mr. Babatunde Esuola during the endorsement of the proposed 10,000 bed spaces private hostel of the Senate building of the university.

Ribadu denies inviting Nyako’s aides to rally

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GOVERNORSHIP aspirant in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, has distanced himself from the presence of two former Governor Murtala Nyako’s henchmen at his rally.

Former Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Mr. Kobis Ari Thimnu and exparty chairman, Alhaji Mijinyawa Umaru Kugama, were accused of misadvising the former governor and ruining the economy of Adamawa

From Barnabas Manyam, Yola

State.

Ribadu, speaking to reporters in Yola, through the Director- General of the Mallam Nuhu Ribadu Campaign organisation (MNRCO), Mr. Kevin Peters, said the two men were never invited to his campaign launch, but they surfaced suddenly at the PDP headquarters in Yola, even before Ribadu could address the party.

Peters said when Ribadu

came, thousands of people from PDP, All Progressives Grand Aliance (APGA), Labour Party, Kowa Party and All Progressives Congress (APC) converged on the PDP office in solidarity with him because of their belief in him.

He said the men might have accompanied the people who thronged the party office when Ribadu visited the place.

Peters said: “The constitution provides for freedom of association. This explains why

they came. Besides, they are indigenes of Adamawa State, going by the constitution. As far as we are concerned, nobody invited them. I think they gate-crashed into the event.”

He advised those thronging the MNRCO to go to their wards and register for the PDP. Peters thanked those who came to the launch and hailed PDP elders for turning out en masse in solidarity with Ribadu.

‘Impeachment denial diffuses tension in Yobe’

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HE All Progressives Congress (APC) in Yobe said yesterday that the dismissal of alleged impeachment plot against Governor Ibrahim Gaidam by the lawmakers has diffused tension among the citizenry.

This is contained in a statement made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Damaturu by the party’s secretary, Alhaji Abubakar Bakabe.

“The party hailed the response of the legislators to the allegation and passed a vote of confidence in the governor,” Bakabe said.

The APC secretary said the lawmakers’ decision also calmed frayed nerves among APC supporters in the state.

He hailed the lawmakers “for refusing to be distracted by political job seekers planning to sow seeds of discord among our party members and over heat the polity.

“As the ruling party in the state, APC has a sitting governor, three senators, six members of the House of Representatives, 24 members of the House of Assembly and 17 local government chairmen.

“The elected officers are united and focused on the task of developing the state.

“The legislators, under the leadership of the Speaker, Alhaji Adamu Dala-Dogo, have dissociated themselves from the alleged impeachment plot and endorsed him (the governor) for 2015.”

The party supported the lawmakers, saying: “We assure you of our support and commitment to protect our party structure and government.”

Bakabe praised the people for their cooperation with the APC-led administration, pledging to provide viable

development projects.

He listed them to include roads, healthcare delivery, functional education and employment opportunities.

Members of the House of Assembly last Tuesday dispelled the rumour that they had perfected plans to impeach Gaidam.

O

NE hundred and sixty transformers worth about N402 million are to be distributed to 300 communities by the Kogi State government.

Governor Idris Wada, who launched the transformers under the state’s accelerated rural electrification scheme, said it was in fulfilment of his promise to make electricity accessible to the rural populace.

He frowned at estimated billing of electricity consumers and promised to correct the anomaly.

Wada reiterated his commitment to improve the living standard of the people and boost so-

From James Azania, Lokoja

cio-economic activities through the provision of basic infrastructure.

He urged the people to assist government in preventing vandalism of transformers by miscreants.

The Commissioner for Rural Development, Mallam Umoru Muhammed, hailed government’s effort to link over 300 communities to the national grid.

He said the gesture would enhance industrial and socio-economic development, assuring that his ministry would not relent in the actualisation of its responsibilities.

Yero denies pact to leave office From Abdulgafar Alabelewe, Kaduna

K

ADUNA State Governor Mukhtar Ramalan Yero has denied signing an agreement or promising any group or individual not to contest the governorship election.

This followed his endorsement at the weekend by the delegates of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), political appointees, elected officials and party chieftains from the 255 wards.

The delegates made their views public at a town hall meeting of PDP stakeholders at the Murtala Square, Kaduna. The motion for an endorsement of the joint ticket of Goodluck Jonathan and Namadi Sambo was moved by former Northwest Secretary of the PDP, Baba Aliyu, a lawyer and seconded

by Husseini Dembo, a party chieftain.

Yero thanked the people for the confidence reposed in him and President Jonathan.

He promised that they would not let the people down.

Firm to partner Kogi on housing for workers

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FIRM, Saniif Property Nigeria Ltd, is to partner Kogi State government in the building of housing estates for workers The Marketing Manager of the firm, Mr. Abdulrahman Dansebe, who spoke yester-

From James Azania, Lokoja

day in Lokoja, said the firm decided to partner government because it could not meet the housing needs of the people without support from the private sector.

He said: “The management

of the firm has studied the transformation agenda of the Wada administration and the bill on Public Private Partnership (PPP) signed into law by the governor, which has allowed the private sector to work with the government in achiev-

ing its objective of providing the dividends of democracy to the people.”

Dansebe said the firm’s management workers had met officials from the Ministry of Lands to decide where the estate would be located.

THE NATION MONDAY, AUGUST 25, 2014

54

FOREIGN NEWS Marina chosen for president in Brazil IsiL:Silva What doto runGlobal Focus

they really want?

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nd

HE night of May 2 2011 in a quiet compound just blocks away from a military barrack in Abbottabad City near Islamabad, the Pakistani capital was nothing but ordinary.

That was before the first chopper crashed, and the second descended on the roof of the compound.

That night marked the end of one of the most wanted fugitive on planet earth, Osama bin Laden, after over a decade-long years on the run, for masterminding the 911 attacks on U.S. Twin Towers killing nearly 3000 people, the first of such daring and brazen act of terrorism on American soil.

As elated and relieved as people of civilized world were at that time, American President Obama was quick to warn that “’violent Islamism is still a dangerous force” After the Iraq and Afghanistan wars, the Arab spring which rocked the Arab nations of Tunisia, Yemen, Libya, Algeria and others, it needs no reminding that indeed terrorism and “violent Islamic fundamentalism” are unfortunately still well and alive. The al-shabab is resurging its ugly head in Somalia after a lull while Boko Haram is wreaking its maca-

bre fangs all over north-eastern Nigeria.

So it is against this background that last Wednesday’s beheading of American journalist, 40 year-old James Foley by the terrorist group, the Islamic State of Iraq and the Leviant (ISiL) should be viewed.

James, who had been reporting from Syria for the past three years, was eulogized by President Obama for his heroism, promising that the perpetrators will be hunted down and justice will be done.

Actually, he had first been abducted in November 2012 for about six months in Allepo, Syria while covering the war. It is also being alleged that a second American, Steven Sotloff is in the hands of this group; having been kidnapped in the line of journalistic duty.

Isil is one of the fragmented fanatical and violent terror groups, which came into limelight in April 2013 in the wake of the Syrian crisis. It is believed to be a breakaway faction of alQaeda, became more militant, seizing oil dams, cities in Iraq and fighting British and US troops in the areas around Baghdad.

The terrorist group released a video which the U.S.

Global Focus DAYO FAKUADE, Foreign Editor sms 08134230367

daborgu@gmail.com

‘As elated and relieved as people of civilised world were at that time, American President Obama was quick to warn that “violent Islamism is still a dangerous force’ Defence Department has confirmed to be authentic.

So, although Osama bin Laden is gone, the seed he had sown and his dream continue to hunt us.

But precisely who are the IsiL and what do they want?

The group which was a renegade off-shoot of al-Qaeda has as its original aim to establish a caliphate in the Sunni majority regions of Iraq. The purpose also was to claim religious authority over all Muslims across the world.

The group became too cantankerous, militant and uncontrollable, even by alQaeda’s “”messianic”” standard. Its renegade founder and what the Italians will call capo di tutti capi is none other than Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi.

According to whistle blower Edward Snowden’s site, he was born in 1971 to both Jewish father and mother in Samara northern Baghdad. His real name is Elliot Shimon and even had been reported as having collaborated with both American and British security agencies in the past to create a formidable counter against radical Arab and Islamic societies, having obtained training in espionage and psychological warfare from Israel’s Mossad.

He presently and ironically has a $10million bounty on his head by American government.

The terror group is estimated to be about 3,000 citizens from Western countries currently fighting for IS in Iraq and Syria.

It has been reported that people from at least 81 different countries had become involved, including citizens from Australia, the US, Canada, Ireland, and Spain

fighting alongside this militant group.

Terrorism has been with the world even before Bin Laden, so no one is under any illusion that it will go away soon, at least not on its own term or volition. Yet the temerity and the beastiality it has taken in recent years calls for more global and concerted effort for its containment. Arms proliferation, mercantilist adventurism, indoctrination by fanatical leaders and poverty will all have to be addressed in a more concerted and vigorous methodologies and interventions by the international community.

In other news, our world still struggles with various conflicts from Libya to Ukraine and what to do to sustain a meaningful ceasefire between Israel and the Palestinians in Gaza. The fighting there continues unabated with more bloody consequences; about 70 Israelis dead and over 2000 Palestinians killed including 400 women and children. Syria is still unsettled even with a staged election.

On a cheering note, another American journalist, Peter Theo Curtis who has been held hostage since 2012 was reportedly released last night. Syria still holds about 20 journalists since the war started about three years ago, mostly believed held by the Islamic State.

Definitely, the forces of good will ultimately triumph over evil. It is a matter of time.

Northern California rocked by magnitude 6.0 earthquake

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MAGNITUDE 6.0 earthquake hit northern California’s San Francisco Bay area yesterday morning, according to the U.S. Geological Survey.

Leslie Gordon of the USGS says the tremor struck just before 3:30 a.m. yesterday about 10 miles northwest of American Canyon, which is about 6 miles southwest of Napa. The USGS says it’s the largest tremor to shake the Bay Area since the 1989 6.9 magnitude Loma Prieta quake, which reportedly led to 63 deaths.

Officials say widespread power outages have been reported in Sonoma County, but there have been no immediate report of injuries.

Jennifer Jones Lee, who lives in the earthquake area, told Fox News the tremor “felt like someone just picked up the house, shook it for a while, and then dropped it. It was incredibly violent.”

Arik Housley, who owns two grocery stores in the area, said he was awakened at about 3:30 a.m. by the shaking. “It was very jolting and probably went for 20 seconds . . . it was shaking pretty good,” said Housley, whose brother is Fox News senior correspondent Adam Housley.

The extent of the damage wasn’t immediately clear.

Two major injuries have been reported, and hospitals have been very busy with moderate injuries, Napa Division Fire Chief John Callanan said.

The 6.0 magnitude earthquake struck just before 3:30 a.m. about 10 miles northwest of American Canyon, which is about 6 miles southwest of Napa, in California wine

country, Leslie Gordon of the U.S. Geological Survey said. It’s the largest earthquake to shake the Bay Area since the 6.9 magnitude Loma Prieta quake in 1989, the USGS said.

“There’s collapses, fires,” said Napa Fire Capt. Doug Bridewell, standing in front of large pieces of masonry that broke loose from a turnof-the-century office building where a fire had just been extinguished. ”That’s the worst shaking I’ve ever been in.”

Bridewell, who said he had to climb over fallen furniture in his own home to check on his family before reporting to duty, said he was starting to see more reports of injuries.

The tremor set off car alarms and had residents of neighboring Sonoma County running out of their houses in the middle of night.

The USGS says the depth of the earthquake was just less than 7 miles, and numerous small aftershocks have occurred in the Napa wine country.

C

T

HE UK is close to identifying a suspected jihadist who is believed to have beheaded a journalist, ambassador to the US Peter Westmacott has said.

The UK has been trying to identify the Islamic State militant with an English accent who appears in footage of the killing of US journalist James Foley.

“We are very close to identifying who this guy is,” Mr Westmacott told CNN. Foreign Secretary Philip Hammond said the death was a “betrayal of everything the British people stand for”.

South Sudan ceasefire monitor dies

A

MEMBER of an East African regional body monitoring a ceasefire in South Sudan died of a heart attack after some monitors were detained by rebels to the north of the country, further complicating a peace process.

Ethiopia’s Seyoum Mesfin, the chief mediator at the Inter Governmental Authority on Development (IGAD), which is trying to broker peace in South Sudan, said the rebels’ action was a violation of the cessation of hostilities agreement signed by the two warring parties earlier this year.

Kidnapped U.S. journalist freed in Syria

A •The apartment tower yesterday

PHOTO: Reuters

Israel destroys Gaza apartment tower

P

RIME Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned Palestinian civilians yesterday to leave immediately any site where militants are operating, one day after Israel took the Gaza war to a new level by flattening a 13-storey apartment tower.

Israeli aircraft fired a nonexplosive rocket at the building as a signal to residents to get out before attacking it on Saturday. Seventeen people

were wounded in the strike on the structure, which Israel said had housed a Hamas command centre.

“I call on the inhabitants of Gaza to evacuate immediately from every site from which Hamas is carrying out terrorist activity. Every one of these places is a target for us,” Netanyahu said in public remarks at a cabinet meeting.

With no end in sight to fighting in its seventh week,

Netanyahu’s tough talk seemed to indicate a move towards bolder strikes against Hamas targets in densely populated neighborhoods, even at the risk of raising more international alarm.

Hours after Netanyahu spoke, a cluster of four homes, one belonging to a Hamas member, was destroyed in an air strike in the southern Gaza town of Khan Younis, neighbours said.

China executes eight for ‘terrorist’ attacks

HINA has executed eight people for “terrorist” attacks in its restive far western region of Xinjiang, including three who “masterminded” a dramatic car crash in the capital’s Tiananmen Square in 2013, state media said.

Xinjiang is the traditional home of Muslim Uighurs who speak a Turkic language, and China has attributed attacks there to Islamist separatists it says seek to es-

James Foley beheading: UK close to identifying jihadist

tablish an independent state called East Turkestan.

Exiled Uighur groups and human rights activists say the government’s own repressive policies in Xinjiang have provoked unrest, an accusation Beijing denies.

Three of the executed group “masterminded” the October 2013 attack in the heart of the Chinese capital, official news agency Xinhua said late on Saturday.

Five people were killed

and 40 injured in the incident, when a car plowed into a crowd in the square and burst into flames.

[ID:nL5N0J80KT] The other executions, carried out in recent days, were punishment for crimes ranging from setting up a terrorist outfit and illegally making explosives to attacking police officers and killing government officials, Xinhua said.

The World Uyghur Con-

gress, the largest group of exiled Uighurs, said the executed individuals had paid a heavy price but the root causes of the issues was being overlooked.

“The lawyers, to accomplish political ends, led them to accept China’s charges, and skirted the causes of the issue,” spokesman Dilxat Raxit told Reuters in an email on Sunday. “It’s a typical case of the law serving political ends.”

N American journalist kidnapped nearly two years ago has been freed in Syria and handed over to UN representatives, after Qatari mediation helped lead to his release.Peter Theo Curtis was freed from captivity on Sunday, after reportedly being abducted in Antakya, Turkey, where he planned to enter Syria in October 2012.Footage of the the American was released on June 30, showing a disheveled Curtis with long hair and beard, but appearing to be in good health.Speaking in a video obtained by Al Jazeera, Curtis read from a prepared script stating his name and profession, saying he was a journalist from Boston, Massachusetts.

Commenting on his treatment, Curtis said he “had everything” he needed and ”everything has been perfect, food, clothing, even friends now”.

•Curtis

THE NATION MONDAY, AUGUST 25, 2014

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FOREIGN NEWS Philippines recalls peacekeepers from Liberia over Ebola threat

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HE Philippines on Saturday ordered 115 troops to return home from peace-keeping operations in Liberia, spurred by a worsening Ebola epidemic in West Africa that has killed almost 1,500 people.

The Philippines has about 800 to 1,000 soldiers and police officers serving under the United Nations flag in conflict and disaster-stricken areas, including Haiti, Sudan, East Timor, Cote d’Ivoire and the Korean peninsula.

“The president is getting worried over the Ebola outbreak in Liberia and has or-

•Border guards march during Ukraine’s Independence Day military parade, in the centre of Kiev Yesterday. PHOTO: REUTERS

Ukraine marks defiant national day, rebels parade captives U

KRAINE marked its independence day with a military march past in Kiev intended to send a message of defiance to Russia, but pro-Moscow rebels countered by parading captured Ukrainian troops through the streets in their stronghold.

The rival events showed the divide that will need to be bridged if a compromise on Ukraine is to be reached on Tuesday when Russian President Vladimir Putin meets his Ukrainian counterpart for the first time in months.

In Kiev’s Independence Square - scene of the protests that pushed out a Moscowbacked president and precipitated the crisis - Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko reviewed columns of men and armoured vehicles.

Some of the troops in the march-past were, Poroshenko said, shortly heading to the front line in eastern Ukraine.

In a defiant and emotional speech, Poroshenko said his country was fighting “a war against external aggression, for Ukraine, for its freedom, for its people, for independence.” That was directed at Moscow, which Kiev alleges is behind the rebellion.

Poroshenko announced about $3 billion would be spent on re-equipping the army in 2015-2017.

Ukraine’s armed forces are only a fraction of the size of those in Russia.

In Donetsk, the main separatist stronghold, about a

hundred people introduced over a public address system as Ukrainian prisoners of war were marched through the central Lenin Square.

They looked dirty and unshaven, and bowed their heads as they passed. Some had bandaged arms and heads. They were guarded by rebel fighters with guns, their bayonets fixed.

People in the crowd who came to watch the parade shouted “fascists!” and “killers!” Some people threw bottles at the prisoners. Two street-cleaning machines followed the column, spraying water on to the street in a theatrical gesture to indicate that the men were unclean.

Alexander Zakharchenko, prime minister of the self-

proclaimed rebel entity, said his forces had launched a counter-attack.

He told the parade they were fighting to take the town on Olenivka, about 20 km (12 miles) south of Donetsk, and hoped to capture it by the end of the day.

One rebel, who did not give his name, said: “Today the Ukrainians have got more active, it’s their independence day. But we’re having a day of independence from them. They’re attacking, and we’re defending.”

The Ukrainian military authorities said they had been making more advances on the battlefield, though the rebel collapse some in Kiev had predicted has not materialised.

More than 250 migrants feared dead off Libyan coast M ORE than 250 migrants may have died when a boat sank a kilometer (half a mile) off the Libyan coast, a coastguard official said on Sunday.

“We believe there are still more than 250 bodies trapped underwater,” coastguard official Mohammad Abdellatif told Reuters.

“When we went underwater we discovered that the boat is a lot bigger than we thought.”

The boat sank late on Fri-

day east of the capital Tripoli. Thousands of migrants, mainly from sub-Saharan Africa, have crowded into rickety vessels in recent months in an effort to reach Italian shores. Many boats have been wrecked.

The total number reaching Italian shores has passed 100,000 in 2014, the Italian government said this week.

Libya is a major departure point for this journey, and

human traffickers are exploiting the political chaos and lawlessness that has blighted the country since Muammar Gaddafi was toppled in an uprising in 2011.

Abdellatif said the coast guard had no resources for a rescue operation. “Most of the bodies washed on the shores are still there because we don’t have any resources to move them,” he said. “We contacted everyone, the

health ministry and the Red Cross, but no one came to help.

Libya is facing anarchy as the weak central government is unable to control armed groups who helped oust Gaddafi but now have turned their arms on themselves.

Ministries in Tripoli have been mostly closed since fighting between two groups escalated last month as staff, trying to escape rockets and street gun battles, only show up sporadically for work.

India, Pakistan conflict intensifies

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NDIAN and Pakistani troops intensified firing across the border over the weekend killing at least four, an Indian official said yesterday, straining ties between the arch rivals who recently called off top-level diplomatic talks.

Last week India said its foreign secretary would not meet with her Pakistani counterpart as scheduled on Monday because of plans by Pakistan to consult separatists from the border state of Jammu and Kashmir ahead of the meeting.

The cancellation dashed any hopes of near-term peace deliberations, chances of which had risen after Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif attended the inauguration of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi about three months ago.

The Himalayan region of Kashmir has been a bone of contention between India and Pakistan since both countries became independent in 1947.

They have fought three wars and came close to a fourth in 2001 and there have been regular clashes on the Line of

Control that divides Indianand Pakistan-controlled Kashmir.

Giving ammunition to hawks on both the sides against resuming talks, firing across the border has picked up.

According to India’s Defense Ministry, there have been 70 ceasefire violations by Pakistan in Jammu and Kashmir since Modi took over.

BSF says Pakistani troops are firing to give cover to the militants for infiltration into Indian territory.

A senior Indian army of-

ficer said that they have foiled 15 infiltration attempts this month in which 10 militants and two Indian soldiers were killed.

The latest firing has forced 1,000 border residents to flee to safer locations, a senior Jammu and Kashmir bureaucrat said.

“Our contingency plans are in place to provide all possible relief to people who might move out of their villages if tensions escalate,” said Shantmanu, divisional commissioner of Jammu district.

dered all 115 Filipino troops to return home as soon as possible,” a senior defense official told Reuters.

The Philippine contingent would cut short its tour of duty, added the official, who declined to be named because he was not authorized to speak to the media.

The Philippines has been sending soldiers to Liberia since 2003. A Philippine seaman is being monitored in Togo for signs of the disease but authorities say the country is still Ebola-free, despite dozens of workers returning from Liberia.

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THE NATION MONDAY, AUGUST 25, 2014

NEWS

•Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) Senator Anyim Pius Anyim (third left), founder, Body Enhancement Foundation Miss Modupe Ozolua (fourth left), DG National Identity Management Commission Mr Chris Onyemenam (fifth left) with (from left) Mr Remi Daniels, Mr Jerald Ilukwe, Mr Ayo Sebiotimo, Ms Gloria Onwukwe and Prince Seun Ozolua during the visit of the Body Enhancement Foundation to SGF in Abuja.

STORY ON PAGE 9 Continued from page 4

service to Nigeria’s unity.

Metuh said: “The people of Southeast PDP reject entirely the alleged allocation of polling booths by INEC; we view it as a great disservice to the unity and progress of this country if the entire South will have 8,000 polling booths and the North will have 21,000 polling booths.

“We demand that this should be suspended forthwith as it is completely against the spirit of one Nigeria, the unity and progress of our dear country.”

He said the meeting also resolved that the Inspector General of Police should revisit the recent appointments and promotions as it affects the zone.

He said: “We are worried about the announcement of the postings and promotions in the Nigeria Police Force and we request the IG of police with the Police Service Commission to revisit these appointments and promotions with the view of properly balancing the positions.

2015 polls: Furore over INEC’s 30,000 new polling units This country belongs to all Nigerians and the Southeast is a great contributor to the progress of this country and we demand our fair of the allocation”.

Metu added: “We request that the registration of voters be extended, especially where we are having problem with the registration and the provision of the PVC. “The officers in charge are not adequate, the materials provided in terms of handling the situation on the ground require a bit of adjustment with the timing of the INEC. So we are demanding that the INEC extend the timing accordingly.”

The meeting, however, praised the effort of the Federal Government in tackling the Ebola scourge.

“We commend the President, especially the Minister of Health, our own Prof. Onyebuchi Chukwu, for the effort the Federal Government has taken in containing the Ebola scourge.

The Southeast PDP identified with all the measures that the Federal Government has resolved to undertake in handling this grave matter of concern to the entire country”.

The meeting also resolved to support President Goodluck Jonathan’s yet undeclared aspiration for President in 2015.

It noted: “We are totally in support; we believe that this country in the past three and half years has witnessed great transformation and we want it to continue.”

Col. Achuzia asked: “What is the rationale behind this move?”

The inference from the INEC move, he added, is that majority of the voters in the country are in the North, whereas the cleaning up of the voter register done recently by INEC has belied that notion.

Achuzia, a former secretarygeneral of the apex Igbo sociocultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, said he would rather

wait for INEC to go ahead with the latest resolve, before making any further statement.

“We would like to wait until it becomes a reality that INEC has done that, then it has to tell us the justification for establishing 70 per cent of the new polling units in the North. This is my position for now.”

He said in the past, enumerators who registered voters in the North usually based their figures on estimates by virtue of

being told that they are not allowed to get into certain places.

“They always use it as an excuse.

It didn’t start today.

Ogun State Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Chairman Bayo Dayo is worried about the lopsidedness in the distribution of the 30,000 additional polling units. He said: “Professor Attahiru Jega is an intelligent and honest man but if his honesty is not in the best interest of the Southwest, we will react and if

need be, we will seek redress in the court.”

Civil rights activist Comrade Moshood Erubami said it would be premature to fault INEC’s wisdom in the distribution of the additional polling units when we don’t know the criteria used.

Afenifere chieftain Chief Supo Shonibare agreed that the distribution was lopsided. “I am not aware INEC is an authorised body on population census. If it is based on estimate, it is wrong to give a section of the country more polling units at the expense of the other,” he said.

Gwoza: The troubled town Continued from page 4

Gwoza and surrounding villages have been vandalised by insurgents. Roads out of the region are extremely dangerous.

Residents said Boko Haram members fleeing from Sambisa Forest had moved into their towns on motorcycles, "being spotted in Patawe, Fadagwe, Wala, Uvaha, Gatha, Jige, Warabe and Ngoshe" villages.

Motorcycles had been banned throughout Borno State for almost two years, and were rarely used by non-Boko Haram members.

Senator Ali Ndume representing Borno South constituency hails from the town. He has been lamenting thwe plight of the people, many of whom have relocated to Adamawa State in displaced persons’ camps.

House of Representatives member Hon. Peter Biye Gumtha said since the beginning of the Boko Haram attacks, "over 200 churches have been completely razed down, leaving only 8 functional churches in the entire Gwoza Council area."

On 30 May 2014, Emir of Gwoza Idrissa Timta, was

killed after he was abducted with his colleague, the Emir of Uba, Ismaila Mamza, by armed men, in Hawul "His convoy was ambushed while he was on the way to attend the funeral of his deceased colleague, the Emir of Gombe, Alhaji Shehu Abubakar.

His son, Muhammad Timta, became the Emir. But he too was recently abducted. He managed to escape and has since fled. The sect has appointed an Ameer to lead the community The sect’s appointed head now presides from the emir’s palace.

Three PDP governors to join APC, says Wamakko Continued from page 4

other offices to fill the gap and to hold zonal rallies to kick start our party’s victory stride by 2015.

“As I am talking to you now, three PDP governors are set to join the APC between now and the end of September.

Two of the governors are from the North while the third one is from the South.”

When asked to comment on

allegations that he has an anointed candidate to take over from him, the governor said: “Only God makes leaders, I cannot tell you who will succeed me in Sokoto State.”

On the defection of former Economic and Financial Crime Commission (EFCC) boss, Nuhu Ribadu from the APC to the PDP, he declined comments because he (Ribadu) is a man of his own who

can take decisions for himself.

Wamakko left to attend another assignment at another venue. Kano State Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, former Governor of Zamfara State Senator Ahmed Sani and a former Speaker of the House of Representatives Aminu Bello Masari, among other APC chieftains from the Northwest zone were still meeting .

Boko Haram declares ‘Caliphate Republic’ Continued from page 4

mobile phone coverage.

Experts have described Boko Haram’s gains in recent weeks as unprecedented.

Soldiers who refused to deploy to Gwoza allegedly without better weapons are to be court marshalled.

During Boko Haram’s attack on Gwoza, the Police Training Institute near the town was taken over and the police authorities said at the weekend that 35 policemen were missing after the attack and takeover of the Institute.

They have launched a manhunt for the 35 missing policemen after two attacks on police training camps, police spokesman Emmanuel Ojukwu said.

The statement on the police website says the attack followed another one on August 7 that was repelled by the police.

The Defence Headquarters described Shekau’s declaration

of an “Islamic Caliphate in Gwoza” as an empty boast.

The Air Force is likely to be drafted into the battle to regain Gwoza, with Boko Haram blocking all the roads to the town.

It was also learnt that top Boko Haram leaders have occupied the palace of the Emir of Gwoza where they installed an Amir(Spiritual Leader) at the weekend.

Top military chiefs are said to have met on how to drive Boko Haram out of Gwoza.

It was learnt that intelligence reports confirmed that most of the leaders of the sect are now living in the palace of the Emir of Gwoza and calling the shots from there.

The intelligence gathering indicated a total blockade of all access roads to Gwoza to prevent troops, police and other security agents from launching reprisals.

A source said: “The military is aware of the so-called decla-

ration by Shekau. The truth the Boko Haram will not tell you is that Sambisa Forest has become marshy and the insurgents cannot operate from there anymore.

“They are also running out of foodstuff, hence they have become desperate to attack innocent villagers or scare them to have access to their barns.”

Another source said: “The military will take the battle to the air with Boko Haram. There will be aerial bombardments of their so-called strongholds.”

The Director of Defence Information, Maj-Gen. Chris Olukolade, said: “The claim is empty. The territorial integrity of the Nigerian state is still intact.

“Any group of terrorists laying claim to any portion of the country will not be allowed to get away with that expression of delusion and crime.

“Appropriate military operations to secure that area from the activities of the bandits are ongoing.”

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THE NATION MONDAY, AUGUST 25, 2014

MOTORING

Jaguar XE offers Internet connections W

ITH the new Jaguar XE, users can comfortably enjoy a Wi-Fi hotspot, enabling multiple devices to connect to the internet - the vehicle antenna provides the best possible signal.

A smooth, supple ride, exceptionally sharp steering, quiet, luxurious cabin and seamless connectivity - the new Jaguar XE delivers in all respects and is equipped with a wide range of state-of-the art technologies designed to make every journey an even more enjoyable experience.

The new

Stories by Tajudeen Adebanjo

XE'sInControlinfotainment system is designed around an 8-inch touchscreen. A clear, intuitive user interface gives quick, easy access to all features and functions, and voice control using plain speech means that drivers can keep their eyes on the road at all times.

"In-car technologies in this evermore connected and fast-paced world are an integral part of driving experience. With the all-new XE, we are introducing an entire suite of cutting-edge driver aids and entertainment systems. De-

signed and developed from scratch, they will ensure that every journey take is simpler, more relaxing, safer, and effortlessly enjoyable," Dr Mike Bell, Jaguar's Global Connected Car Director said.

Smartphones, he said, are changing the way people interact with the world around them and the new XE ensures drivers stay connected.

He stated: "Jaguar InControl Remote allows users of iOS and Android smartphones to connect to the car from wherever they are and control a range of vehicle functions. These include seven-day

timed pre-setting of the XE's climate control system, locking or unlocking the doors, or starting the engine.

"Jaguar InControl Apps allows users to seamlessly access smartphone apps through the vehicle's touchscreen, making it easy to do everything from make a conference call, find a parking space or book a hotel room."

The sophistication of the infotainment system is matched by the array of advanced driver assistance systems available in the new XE: the laser head-up display (HUD) is an industry-first. Project-

ing sharp, high-contrast colour images onto the windscreen, the technology provides the driver with information such as speed and navigation instructions with maximum clarity and minimum distraction. As well as better image quality, the laser HUD is smaller and almost a third lighter than existing systems.

Designed and engineered in the United Kingdom, the aluminiumintensive XE will be the first Jaguar manufactured at a new purpose-built production facility at the company's Solihull plant in the West Midlands in the UK.

Army Barracks route, Ganaja Village through Ganaja Junction to Felele route and Army Barracks through Ganaja Junction to Felele route.

Wada announced that his admin-

istration has pegged the fare for the transport service at N50 only per drop as against N150 previously charged on the routes.

He promised that the scheme would soon be extended to other

parts of Lokoja and the state.

The governor also assured the transport unions that palliative measures would be introduced to alleviate any inconveniences they will suffer.

Kogi inaugurates city bus service

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THE Kogi State government has inaugurated a new metropolitan transport scheme tagged: Lokoja City Bus Service (LCBS) to boost transportation within the capital city - Lokoja.

Residents of Lokoja would enjoy at least 50 per cent subsidy on fares within the metropolis.

Governor Idris Wada during the inauguration of the scheme, described it as a landmark as it marks the beginning of the restructuring of the road and water transportation sectors in the state.

Wada said LCBS is the first phase of the Kogi transport scheme that will eventually include an ultramodern mega park, intra and interstate transport services, free school bus services, water transport terminals and the Lokoja ferry service. ''The desire to restructure the transportation sector is borne out of my administration's commitment to provide safe, comfortable and affordable means of transport

• The buses

for the entire citizenry and residents of the state,'' he said The buses are designated to ply only the major roads in Lokoja metropolis, which include; Ganaja Village through Ganaja Junction to

Dana opens expanded showroom

K •From left: Managing Director PAN Nigeria Limited, Alhaji Ibrahim Boyi; Chairman PAN Nigeria Limited, Alhaji Munir Ja'afar and the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator Ayim Pius Ayim when the Board of PAN Nigeria visited SGF at Abuja.

KIA Motors has opened a newly renovated and expanded showroom in the Victoria Island area of Lagos.

This is to further create exceptional service delivery to customers.

Kia Head Marketing Kayode Adejumo said the company has invested in a modern showroom to meet the lineup of its brands and ensure efficient after sales and service. "The showroom is geared towards turning the experience of KIA customers into an adorable

and memorable moment that rewards their enthusiasm and taste for quality and regalia designs," he said.

The new structure will feature display of the model range of KIA automobiles in Nigeria.

Tailored along the exceptional service delivery of KIA Motors, the Victoria Island showroom will help cater to the needs of KIA fleet owners as they will always find keeping the fleet in top condition and get more value from KIA.

SAFE DRIVING

Road safety: Unemployment and terror attack victims’ funding

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OW tell me, how many jobs have been created as claimed by these Government Agencies? Where are the people the jobs were created for so that we can visit them to see if they were truly and genuinely empowered.

The Honourable Minister for youth development recently announced that the Ministry has empowered about 10,000 (ten thousand) youths in the past 14 years. Is there anything to boast about in this record? Industrial Training Fund (ITF) that empowered over 40,000 (forty thousand) youths in less than 2 years is currently taking steps to improve on the

record. Let someone ask the Honourable Minster how many youths have remained unemployed in the past 14 years in Nigeria?

Secondly, what is the percentage of those they claimed to have empowered to the number of youths currently unemployed and underemployed in Nigeria? Nigeria Universities and other educational institutions churn out millions of youths annually to join this long list of unemployed and underemployed youths. What happened to the Dangote job creation committee’s blueprint?

Whether we believe it or not, the terror attacks in Nigeria no matter the name it is called is a product of unemployment and

underemployment in Nigeria because an idle mind is the devil’s workshop and an idle hand is a ready tool in the hands of the devil.

My candid advice to the Federal Government, State Governments, Local Governments, Government Ministries, Departments and Agencies, Private Sector Organizations, Religious Organizations, Civil Society Organizations and High Networth Individuals in Nigeria is to join hands to set the priorities right and address the root cause of the problem of insurgency and allied vices in Nigeria.

No matter the billions of naira spent on addressing the effects, it will make no meaningful impact until the root causes are objectively and effectively

addressed once and for all.

What is the Government doing about the increasing rate of drug addiction in Nigeria?

What is the Government doing about ethnicism and religious discrimination even in the civil service system? Attention is shifting to Ebola virus again now.

I hereby advice the Government to wake up and decisively deal with the Ebola of Road Infrastructure decay, Unemployment and Drug Addiction among others in Nigeria to avoid situations worse than terror attacks in the country.

The fact still remains that the terror of today could have been avoided several years ago if the appropriate

SAVED in MAC 45 in Motoring folder / 25-8 folder/ 25-08-14

Jide Owatunmise Registrar / Chief Executive, Professional Driving and Safety Academy

proactive actions have been taken.

The Government at all levels need to be more proactive now than ever before. A stitch in time saves nine.

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THE NATION MONDAY, AUGUST 25, 2014

PREMIERSHIP

SPORT EXTRA

More to come from Tottenham

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•Torres (l) and Mourinho

System not to blame, says Redknapp

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ARRY Redknapp insisted QPR's new 3-5-2 system was not the reason for their 4-0 Premier League hammering at Tottenham on Sunday.

Former Spurs boss Redknapp endured a miserable return to White Hart Lane, as a brace from Nacer Chadli and a goal apiece from Eric Dier and Emmanuel Adebayor condemned his side to a crushing defeat.

It was QPR's second Premier League defeat in as many games this season following last weekend's 10 home reverse at the hands of Hull City.

Redknapp has utilised 3-5-2 because it allows him to play two strikers without compromising numbers in midfielder, and the 67year-old felt Sunday's defeat was a result of sluggishness amongst his players, rather than any issue with the formation.

"I don't know if that [the system] is the problem, we played okay last week playing that way," he said.

"It was about energy, we didn't play with enough energy and we looked off the pace a bit.

"In certain areas we weren't sharp enough, we've got to work harder than that with and without the ball.

Maybe one or two looked a bit slow.

"I don't think it's systems, that system allows me to get two strikers in the team, which I was trying to do.”

•Redknapp

Torres still in Mourinho's plans W

HILE Jose Mourinho salutes the striking start to Diego Costa's Chelsea career, the manager insists he has not forgotten what another expensive but more misfiring La Liga import can contribute to his side's Premier League title drive.

Fernando Torres, Chelsea's record 50 million pound ($82.84 million) signing, could not even command a place on the bench as Costa was scoring on his Stamford Bridge debut in the 2-0 win over Leicester City on Saturday, a victory which maintained the club's perfect start to the season.

At the launch of his fifth season for Chelsea and having turned 30 in March, the dropping of Torres felt almost symbolic of his slide from the giddy heights of his Atletico Madrid

and Liverpool heyday.

With the 32 million pound man Costa marking his territory with a second goal in as many games and as the returning 36-year-old hero Didier Drogba was being welcomed back ecstatically, was Mourinho preparing to consign Torres' largely disappointing Chelsea career to history?

Not at all, according to the manager.

Chelsea still needed three top strikers in their squad and Torres, even if his record of five goals in 28 league appearances last season contrasts starkly with Costa's immediate 100 percent strike rate, would be that 'third man'.

Happy to dispel persistent rumours that Torres might be on his way to a

loan spell with a top Italian club, Mourinho instead offered an unforced tribute to both the player's abilities and character, insisting Spain's former World Cup winner still had plenty more Chelsea goals in him.

"I want three strikers in the team. I can't do a season without three strikers so our squad was made carefully, with great balance, great work by the top structure of my club to try to give me with what I want," Mourinho explained.

"Torres is one of those three strikers.

"I believe he'll stay. I want him. He will play, he will score goals, he will be very useful for us. He's a fantastic guy, a fantastic professional. So no problem.”

HE new Tottenham head coach Mauricio Pochettino is well known for advocating an attacking philosophy and it was his front players who stole the show on Harry Redknapp’s return to White Hart Lane as Spurs romped to a 4-0 victory.

Erik Lamela, the club-record signing whose early-season rejuvenation under Pochettino is clear for all to see, as well as Nacer Chadli, Christian Eriksen and Emmanuel Adebayor, proved far too strong for the back three deployed by Redknapp.

Chadli scored twice in the first half, either side of a second goal in as many Barclays Premier League appearance for Eric Dier, while Adebayor added a fourth in the second-half to take Spurs top of the embryonic table.

And Pochettino was full of praise for his wealth of attacking talent, insisting he always wants to let them play unshackled.

“Lamela, Adebayor, Chadli and Eriksen create the movement and rotate - they are free,” he said.

“We work a lot on the training ground but it is important that the players are free in their minds because they are creative players.

“You can not put the players like that in the shade, you need to provide the organisation but after that they are free.

“It is true that Lamela can improve a lot. He is still young and when a young player arrives in a different country it is hard to adapt.

United will finish in the top four — Poyet

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UNDERLAND head coach Gus Poyet still believes Manchester United will finish in the top four despite another lacklustre showing.

Louis van Gaal’s men were underwhelming in Sunday’s 1-1 Premier League draw at the Stadium of Light, which followed their season-opening 2-1 home loss to Swansea City.

The display was disjointed and Juan Mata’s 17th-minute goal handed the visitors a scarcely deserved lead, though Jack Rodwell levelled for Sunderland before the interval.

Yet Poyet believes Van Gaal will ultimately find the right formula and spark a turnaround.

Asked if he still thought United would finish in the top four, the Uruguayan said: “Yes, because [Marcos] Rojo [who missed out against Sunderland as he has not yet received a work permit] has been added and they will still spend more money.

“I know Van Gaal very well and if you give him time he will achieve what he promises. I have no doubt.”

While the result was a great source of frustration for Van Gaal, Poyet declared himself pleased with a point.

Chief among the positives was the performance of new boy Will

Buckley, who caused United plenty of problems on his home debut.

He added: “I am so pleased he

had a very good first half because everybody knows why I was so consistent in trying to get him.

“He was electric, direct and he will do plenty of things. We have to be patient with him but he showed why he is here.”

• Adebayor

Bruce hits out at officials over late equaliser

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•Poyet

ULL CITY manager Steve Bruce was left fuming after Stoke City equalised from a wrongly awarded throw-in to draw 1-1 at the KC Stadium.

The hosts saw James Chester sent off after just 14 minutes, though referee Jon Moss had little choice in making that call as the defender denied a goalscoring opportunity following a defensive mix-up.

Hull responded manfully and took the lead through Nikica Jelavic just before half-time, only for Stoke to salvage a point when Ryan Shawcross bundled in a late leveller.

But that goal came from a throw that clearly should have gone to Hull, leaving Bruce angry.

"Given the circumstances, I think you would accept a point after you're down to 10 men after 15 minutes," said Bruce.

"However, we feel there was an in-

justice, of course, and when you see it, how blatant it is, I just can't understand how the three officials can't get together and make that decision right.

"The whole of the crowd knew it was ours and their player ran away and didn't even go to take the throw-in, so surely that's an indication to the referee or the linesman to say 'hang on a minute, it must have hit him'.

"And it wasn't just a slight deflection either - I think everyone in the ground must have seen it, except for the three officials. And the consequence of it was, that because we thought it was our throw, we weren't set up the way we should be.

"It's difficult to take and difficult for the players, because after their exertions in midweek and playing with 10 men for 75 minutes, the determination to succeed was manful to say the least.”

THE NATION MONDAY, AUGUST 25, 2014

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TRANSFER...TRANSFER...TRANSFER...

SPORT EXTRA Pearson frustrated by Cambiasso negotiations

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IGEL Pearson has revealed his exasperation regarding Esteban Cambiasso’s proposed move to Leicester City.

Following his side’s 2-0 Premier League defeat to Chelsea on Saturday, Pearson explained he was looking to strengthen his options ahead of the transfer window closing on September 1.

Having admitted the club’s interest in Cambiasso - currently a free agent after leaving Inter - last week, Pearson explained complexities in the deal were beginning to become an issue.

“It’s proved exceptionally hard to find a solution to the negotiations,” he said.

“There seems to be so many representatives for players, it’s finding out who’s actually doing the deal and that’s been the biggest problem for us.”

Pearson also took time to comment on the future of Chris Wood, who had previously been linked with a move to Wolves but came off the bench to grab a late equaliser in Leicester’s 2-2 draw with Everton on the opening day.

“I never said he was leaving,” Pearson commented. “I’m not accountable for the speculation.

“There was interest [from Wolves] and discussion between the sides but my discussion with the player was very simple.

“He wants to stay and I’m happy for him to stay so it’s very straightforward.”

•Pardew

Pardew hoping to strengthen Newcastle A

•Pearson

Hull closing in on Dawson signing

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ULL CITY manager Steve Bruce is hopeful of signing Tottenham defender Michael Dawson before the end of the transfer window.

The 30-year-old, who has won four England caps, appears to be surplus to requirements at White Hart Lane and Bruce is keen to bring him to the KC Stadium.

“Managers are always going to say we are thin on the ground,” said Bruce after Sunday’s 1-1 Premier League draw with Stoke City.

“It’s my job to try and bring players in, but we’re close to one in particular that we hope we can get over the line, although I thought I had Jordan Rhodes 24 hours ago and that now seems to be further away than it’s ever been after being negotiated for a week.”

When asked about Dawson, though, Bruce added: “I’m hopeful that can be done, I believe there is a deal in principle.

“But we’ll see what this week brings and whether we can bring in the two or three people we need to give the squad a hand because we’ve already played five competitive games.”

Hull had two bids for Blackburn Rovers striker Rhodes “respectfully and categorically rejected”, the Championship club confirmed on Saturday.

LAN Pardew is keen to bolster Newcastle’s squad before the end of the transfer after a second successive game without a win.

Saturday’s 0-0 draw with Aston Villa gave Pardew’s side their first point of the new term, though they are yet to score a goal this term, having lost 2-0 to Manchester City in their seasonopener.

However, attack is not top of the manager’s list to improve on despite their profligacy in front of goal.

Attacking trio Siem de Jong, Emmanuel Riviere and Remy Cabella

have arrived at St James’ Park and are set to be given a chance to bed in, but Pardew remains keen to strengthen further in the final week of the window.

“I’m hoping for a more positive end to the window than a negative end to the window I think we’re looking at situations that might help us,” he said.

“We feel we’ve done good business but we’re looking at the options we think are good enough for us so we’ve got our finger on the pulse and that’s all I can say really.

“I think all managers hope for one or two, that doesn’t mean to say they’re

going to arrive.

“I can’t argue with what the board have done, we’ve been criticised in the past for not spending the money and not putting it back in.

“A lot of people thought we wouldn’t do much business this summer but we did and we did it early, it’s got us in a good position. We’ve got a good solid team there it’s just about getting the goals.

“I’d accept any player coming into my group, the situation is on the horizon we’ve had no offers for our players. I don’t think we’re going to lose a big player, fingers crossed.”

Fulham fans want Murphy to replace Magath

I

T seems Fulham fans have had enough of Felix Magath.

The German oversaw his fourth defeat out of four in the Championship in embarrassing circumstances, as a 5-1 defeat to Derby County exposed just how many flaws this Cottagers side really has.

And, understandably, many fans took to Twitter to express their frustration.

For some, however, there is a solution: bring back Danny Murphy.

The former Fulham midfielder, also known for his time at Liverpool, has a strong reputation within the club and many are calling for him to replace Magath, with Under-21 coach Kit Symons alongside him. @SkySportsNewsHQ time to go for magath, danny Murphy as the next Fulham manager #SSNHQ — AdamFFC (@adamwilkinson17) August 24, 2014.

And please can we finally bring Danny Murphy back where he belongs? #Fulham — Sönke Gorgos (@MrFulham) August 24, 2014 @richardosman @WhiteNoise1879 There’s only one Danny MURPHY He Knows and Understands our

great club #Fulham — Kevin Williams (@kevwilliams23) August 23, 2014 Magath & Ali Mac OUT Symons & Murphy IN Make it happen and we won’t care where we finish but we will know we are in Fulham hands — Samson McMuffin (@samsonmcmuffin) August 23, 2014 You may be forgiven for forgetting that Adel Taarabt is still a QPR player.

The Moroccan does not spend too much time playing football for the Rs anymore but, rest assured, he is still around.

Indeed, the QPR man - term used loosely - has been sharing his wisdom with the Sun on Sunday.

And he has backed Liverpool to win the league if they get the most out of Mario Balotelli, whom he worked with at AC Milan last season.

“I think he is coming to show he has grown up and that he is mature now,” Taarabt said.

“The team is young and, with someone like Steven Gerrard playing with him, he will get his head down and work hard.

“If they get 20 goals from Mario and 20 from Daniel Sturridge, they’ll win the league.”

•Murphy

Koeman lining up more signings

•Koeman

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AINTS boss Ronald Koeman confirmed he is not finished with his transfer activities after seeing his side play out a goalless draw with West Brom at St Mary’s.

Graziano Pelle was brought in by Koeman to provide goals but he struggled to make an impact and Koeman was under no illusions that there is yet more work to be done on his squad before the close of the window.

“We know inside what we need in the time we have,” he said.

“We will work to bring in one or two players. We need that - it will be a long season in England and on Tuesday we play in the League Cup and with that you need enough players of quality to give the competition in the squad.”

The start of the Koeman era on the south coast will prove instantly forgettable when compared to the impressive performance his newlook side put in at Anfield last weekend.

Saints may have lost 2-1 to Liverpool but Koeman felt his side were more at the races than they were in front of their own fans and praised keeper Fraser Forster for making a late save to deny West Brom victory.

“The result was better than last week but the feeling is different. It’s strange in football,” he added.

“We deserved last week much more than we got, but today it was difficult.

We didn’t have the tempo to create more. We played against a West Brom side with good organisation, very compact, physical, strong in defence.

“You need high quality in the cross and passing and we didn’t have that today.”

THE NATION MONDAY, AUGUST 25, 2014

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Moreno, Markovic ready to face City

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IVERPOOL boss Brendan Rodgers has stated that Alberto Moreno and Lazar Markovic would be available to face Manchester City tomorrow night.

Markovic, who was brought in from Benfica for £20 million, is set to make his debut and much is expected from the talented 20-year-old winger who has seemed extremely confident in all his interviews. But the Reds’ costliest signing of the summer, Adam Lallana will still miss the game despite returning to training.

“Markovic will come into the squad, he’s been excellent in training and worked very hard to come back. Adam Lallana is on the latter stages of his rehabilitation so he’ll join the group but won’t be in the squad for Monday. He’s been with our conditioning coaches, so he’ll train with the team on Sunday so he’s looking in great condi-

tion and we’ve just got to get him up to match speed,” said the Liverpool manager.

Jose Enrique missed out almost the entire previous season with a knee injury. He participated in the pre-season with the Reds but did not feature for the club in the season opener against Southampton. The Spaniard is still doubtful for Liverpool’s big test against Manchester City. Club vice captain Daniel Agger whose future with the Merseyside club is still doubtful, will also miss the game with injury along with 21-year-old Jon Flanagan.

“Jose Enrique, we’ll see how Jose goes and Daniel Agger is still out but apart from that the squad is healthy and looking very good. Jon Flanagan still needs a bit more time,” confirmed Brendan Rodgers.

Liverpool made Alberto Moreno their seventh summer signing and the 22-year-old exSevilla player is ready to face

City and would want to prove why the club spent all summer courting him.

•Moreno

We lack confidence—Van Gaal

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OUIS van Gaal admitted Manchester United are suffering from a crisis of confidence following yesterday's 1-1 Premier League draw at Sunderland.

In a continuation of the Dutch manager's disappointing start to his reign, United only gleaned a point from a poor display that was hardly the rally many expected after the 2-1 home loss to Swansea City last Saturday.

United took the lead against the run of play at the Stadium of Light, Juan Mata opening the scoring in the 17th minute.

However, they were unable

to take advantage as an unmarked Jack Rodwell levelled proceedings from a Sebastian Larsson corner before halftime.

And Van Gaal said: "One point, that is not good enough for Manchester United.

"We lost a lot of balls in situations where I don't expect it.

We were dominating without creating chances. That is disappointing.

"I think that is down to the confidence. The play was much better in the United States [in pre-season].

"We have to improve but it takes time. You can never say how long it will take. If you

win the next game, then confidence is coming back."

It seems help may be at hand with rumours that United will soon complete a British-record deal for Real Madrid winger Angel di Maria.

Van Gaal refused to be drawn on those links, adding: "I cannot say anything about transfers. When a transfer has been finished, then we can say something. If the moment is there, Manchester United shall announce it."

He then jokingly added: "It is not only Di Maria; maybe [Arturo] Vidal and [Lionel] Messi. Manchester United are a big club."

• Action from last night’s Sunderland v Man United clash

Pochettino not getting ahead of himself

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A U R I C I O Pochettino refused to get carried away with his side's form after thumping QPR 4-0 in the Premier League on Sunday.

The home side were in total control throughout as they welcomed former boss Harry Redknapp back to White Hart Lane, Nacer Chadli opening the scoring in the 12th minute.

Eric Dier made it two on the half-hour mark by netting his second goal in as many matches, before Chadli doubled his tally seven minutes later.

The destination of the three points was not in doubt by the time Emmanuel Adebayor added a fourth in the 65th minute.

And Pochettino declared his delight at the display.

"We are very pleased," he said. "We are happy because we are in front of our supporters for the first game this season here.

"I told the players at halftime that, for me, the game is 0-0 and we need to win the second half, but 1-0 in the second half was good."

However, the Argentine coach stressed that the season was still young and that he would be keeping his feet on the ground for the time being after maintaining his side's winning start.

"It's nothing because it's two games," he continued. "The most important thing is to try to develop our style and philosophy and today the team showed our basis.

"It's important that the team show that we play like a team.

"When we play like a team together, we can achieve something."

Record signing Erik Lamela - making his first Premier League start at White Hart Lane almost a year after joining the club - provided two assists for the hosts, and Pochettino believes the winger is growing in stature.

"It's true that he can improve a lot, but he's still young," he added. "Always when a young player arrives in a different country, a different culture, a different football, it's difficult to adapt.

"But we all know his skills and we are happy."

Tottenham host AEL in the

UEFA Europa League on Thursday, before welcoming Liverpool to north London next weekend.

•Pochettino

THE NATION MONDAY, AUGUST 25, 2014

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Home-based athletes agitate for training grants

NFF moves General Assembly venue to Abuja •Federation hails Anyim’s, Danagogo’s intervention

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•AFN insists on due process

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AS the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) been denying homebased Nigerian athletes training grants? This is the allegation that has been made by some of the athletes plying their trades in Nigeria.

Several sources told NationSport that the AFN has been paying training grants to mostly foreign-based Nigerian athletes, and hardly to the home-based ones. They further alleged that the payments were made to even those foreign-based athletes who did not attend the federation’s last selection trials in Calabar, but not to the homebased athletes who did. The trials are the benchmark for picking Nigeria’s representatives to international competitions.

The aggrieved athletes said they had been waiting for their training grants since the conclusion of the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland and

By Stella Bamawo the African Athletics Championship in Marrakech, Morocco.

The AFN did not respond to enquiries on the matter.

One of the home-based athletes (name withheld) who was able to get his grant told NationSport that he was paid only after he threatened to report the matter to a higher authority at the National Assembly. “Others (home-based athletes) were not so lucky,” he said.

“I witnessed when some athletes, mostly the foreign-based ones were entering and coming out of a certain office and were clutching something in their hands. I quickly enquired and was informed they were receiving their grants. I rushed into the office, someone was paying them. I demanded for my grants but the man said my name was not on the list for grants. That was when I lost my

•Okagbare

cool.”

He continued: “The rest is history. I finally got paid.”

However, an AFN source told NationSport that the athletes, whether home or foreign-based would be paid. He urged them

to exercise patience as the federation is sourcing for funds. The source also made the clarification that not all the home-based athletes will receive grants as there are procedures and benchmarks to qualify one for grants.

MTN WGC: Igweh wins northern regional qualifiers

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N Abuja-based hotelier, Okey Igweh, has won the northern regional qualifiers of the MTN World Golfers Championship held at the IBB International Golf and Country Club, Abuja on Saturday.

Igweh played off handicap 5 shot 74 net to qualify for the national final scheduled for Le Meridien Ibom Hotel and Golf Resort, Uyo from September 12-14.

Igweh returned the best net score of the day and will be joined by Austin Chigbo who shot 82 net as the two automatic qualifiers for the final from handicap flight 0-5 category.

The golfer, who represented Nigeria at the MTN WGC final in Hua-Hin, Thailand in 2010, automatically won himself high value gifts courtesy of MTN Nigeria for his feat in the competition. An elated Igweh, (handicap 0-5) poured encomiums on MTN for sponsoring the tournament and stated that the company has continued to stay ahead of the pack with innovations and

service delivery.

“The MTN WGC is one of the best tournaments in Nigeria being played by discerning clubs. I was in Thailand in 2010 and I must admit that the benefits to network and opportunity to compete with other international golfers can not be matched by other tournaments,'' Igweh said.

Acting General Manager, Northern Operations MTN, Ibrahim Bashir Mohammed, who spoke at the prize presentation ceremony, thanked the players for their support for the MTN brand and reiterated the company’s resolve to meet them at their passion points. He stated that the customer is the reason the company is in business, therefore, it will continue to identify with the exclusive lifestyles of golfers and other factors that set them apart from the crowd.

“Golfers are held in high esteem by the company and it is our joy that this tournament has provided the platform for players to improve on their playing abilities,” he stated.

A strong field of 150 golfers from several northern based golf clubs, among which were Kaduna, Kano, Ilorin, Minna, Jaji, Lafia and the two Jos clubs (Rayfield and Lamengo) participated in the 18-hole regional qualifier.

After a keen contest in sublimely wonderful conditions, golfers from the IBB Golf Club benefitted from local knowledge by grabbing 13 of the available 15 slots in all five handicap flight categories.

Julius Fadairo secured his maiden qualification for the national final following his emergence as the handicap 610 flight category winner. He shot the net score of 73 ahead of Emmanuel Owoicho from Kaduna Golf Club and Segun Adebayo, who shot 77 net a piece to make the cut.

In the handicap 11-15, Ade Young posted 75 net to win, Femi Okeowo from Kaduna Golf Club was two shots off the lead while Alex Shaiyen placed third with 78 net.

Jide Adebulehin, S. Odinume and Alex Aipoh took the three

•L-R: General Manager, Projects, PTDF, Mr. Jide Adebulehin, Managing Director, NNPC Retails, Mr. Chris Osarunwhusi, acting General Manager, Regional Operations, North, MTN Mr. Ibrahim Bashir Mohammed at the Tee Box during the MTN World Golfers Championship held at the IBB Golf Club, Abuja on Saturday.

qualifying spots in the handicap flight 16-20 category.

Adebulehin shot 80 net to edge Odinume by one shot. Aipoh was in touch with the leaders with 83.

The three qualifying slots in the flight handicap 21-26 category were grabbed by V.O. Chukwujekwu 84 (CB), P. Adedipe and R.O.M Oladapo who was two shots outside the lead with 86 net.

Chairman, Global Golf Limited, Ayinde Sanni said the northern regional qualifier has set the tone for what to expect in the final in Uyo. ''About 150 players featured at the qualifiers and what that says is that people will always associate with quality and good organisation.

HE General Assembly of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) will meet in Abuja tomorrow to draw up a new roadmap leading to the conduct of elections into the NFF Executive Committee, it was agreed on Sunday evening.

Earlier scheduled for Warri, Delta State, the gathering will now be in Abuja and the session is expected to commence at 4pm, with Chairmen and Secretaries of the Football Associations of the 36 States and the FCT, as well as Chairmen and Secretaries of the various Leagues, Coaches’ Association, Referees’ Association and Players’ Union expected in attendance.

NFF General Secretary, Barrister Musa Amadu disclosed that a three-hour meeting at the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator Anyim Pius Anyim, resolved that the NFF Congress fashion out a roadmap that will usher in open, transparent and credible elections that will be acceptable to world football-governing body, FIFA and the world football community at large.

“It has been agreed that the Congress take place in Abuja, instead of Warri, but there will be no elections on Tuesday, 26th August. The Congress will only fashion out a roadmap for the elections, with the elective Congress expected to come up not later than two weeks after the Congress of Tuesday, 26th August,” Amadu said as he came out of the meeting.

Amadu expressed the NFF’s heartfelt appreciation to Senator Anyim, and the Honourable Minister/Chairman, National Sports Commission, Dr. Tammy Danagogo for the remarkable agreement that brings to an end weeks of crisis in Nigerian football.

Also present at the meeting were NFF president Aminu Maigari, NFF 1st Vice President Mike Umeh, NFF Executive Committee members Shehu Adamu, Dilichukwu Onyedinma, Ayodeji Tinubu, Ahmad Muazu Kawu, Yusuf Ahmed ‘Fresh’ and Chris Green, State FA Chairmen

•Maigari Amanze Uchegbulam (Imo), Taiwo Ogunjobi (Osun), Abel Ehigie (Edo), Lucky Gospel Ewa (Bayelsa), Obinna Ogba (Ebonyi), as well as Shehu Dikko and Mr. Jarrett Tenebe.

In a letter dated August 21, addressed to NFF President, Aminu Maigari and signed by Deputy Secretary General, Markus Kattner, FIFA had approved of the proposal for the General Assembly to work out a new roadmap and also decide on the composition of the Electoral Committee and the Electoral Appeals Committee.

“We take note of the decision of the NFF Executive Committee to ask the members of the upcoming congress on 26 August 2014, to consider a new roadmap for the elections, which should be held by no later than two weeks after the congress. We also understand from your correspondence that the members of the congress will also decide on the composition of the electoral committees whose legitimacy had been put in doubt by some members.

“The congress being the highest decision-making body of any football association, we approve of the above plan, and as previously stated, we are supportive of an electoral process that is free and open to everybody, thereby fulfilling the requirements of the NFF regulations.”

THE NATION MONDAY, AUGUST 25, 2014

62 USEFUL PHONE NUMBERS ON ANY EMERGENCY Council endorses the useful phone numbers submitted by the security agents for easy access in case of any emergency on the metropolitan roads. Accordingly, the general public may easily Contact KAROTA for: Breakdown of Vehicle(s), Traffic Congestion, Accidents, and Illegal/Wrong Parking to kindly Call KAROTA through the following numbers on – 08091626747. Similarly, the State Police Command could be contacted on – 08032419754, 08123821575. In addition, the State Fire Service can be contacted on – 07051246833, 08191778888.

163RD KANO STATE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL MEETING PREPARED BY COUNCIL AFFAIRS DIRECTORATE, OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY TO THE STATE GOVERNMENT, GOVERNMENT HOUSE, KANO. There is widespread information within the Country and overseas that Kano State is now experiencing profound educational, social, economic and political changes. There is now certainty about the nature and meaning of these changes. It is becoming clear that this administration’s transformation agenda is bringing rapid infrastructural development, improved healthcare delivery, qualitative and quantitative educational and agricultural changes beneficial to the citizens. In this direction numerous projects are springing up in every nook and cranny of the State. The gigantic transformation projects being implemented are in fulfillment of the Governor’s campaign promises that were well articulated.

In furtherance of the above noble policies of this present administration. The usual Kano State Executive Council Sitting was held today Wednesday 20 th August, 2014 (24th Shawwal, 1435 AH) under the Chairmanship of Governor Engr. Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, FNSE where eleven (11) MDAs submitted forty five (45) memoranda for deliberation of which Council approved twenty three (23) for execution with an expenditure of One Billion, Five Hundred and Thirty Nine Million, Five Hundred and Thirty Nine Thousand, Seven Hundred and Twenty One Naira, Seventeen Kobo (N1,539,539,721.17) covering seventeen (17) projects while the remaining six (6) are on policy issues. Thus; OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY TO THE STATE GOVERNMENT The Secretary to the State Government submitted sixteen (16) memoranda on behalf of the Chairman and some MDAs for deliberation by Council of which eleven (11) were approved for execution as follows; a) Presentation of Update on the Cholera Situation and Request for Additional Funds to Control its Outbreak in Kano State:This presentation and request were originally submitted from the Ministry of Health but was endorsed by the Secretary to the State Government.

Details on the current situation regarding Cholera outbreak in the State were summarized and presented to Council. This prompted the Ministry of Health to request for the release of the additional sum of N12,518,000.00 for the following four (4) purposes; i. Mass Media announcements on Cholera Prevention – N700,000.00. ii. Procurement of drugs for Cholera and other Epidemics – N9,548,000.00. iii. Contact Tracing – N1,440,000.00. iv. Provision of Laboratory Materials – N830,000.00.

Total = N12,518,000.00.

Council acknowledged the presentation and approved the release of the requested additional sum of N12,518,000.00 to the Ministry of Health to enable execution of Control on the Outbreak of Cholera. b) Presentation of a Proposal and Request for Funds to Enable Provision of Motorized Solar – Powered Water Borehole at Audu Bako Secretariat:The proposal was originally submitted from the Kano Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency (RUWASA) but an advice was sought from the State Water Board on the issue.

Details on the advice from the Kano State Water Board were presented to Council for consideration along with the scope of works required, assessed and estimated to cost the sum of N28,348,750.00.

Accordingly, Council noted, considered and approved as requested. c) Presentation of request on Sponsorship/Relocation of Sixty (60) Kano State Indigenous Postgraduate Students Sponsored for Studies in Ukraine Under the 502 Scheme:Details on the genesis of this presentation and request were submitted to Council. In respect for the sponsorship/relocation of fifty six (56) out of the sixty (60) students as two (2) of them voluntarily withdrew while the remaining two (2) Law Students opted to remain in Ukraine as their location is not affected by the crisis in Ukraine.

Details were presented to Council for consideration along with the financial implications summarized below; 1.

SN Country University i.

Number Cost ($) of Students

Cyprus

North – East University, North Cyprus.

18 ii. Cyprus Cyprus International University, North Cyprus. 1 4 iii. Cyprus Cyprus International University, North Cyprus. 0 1 iv. China Shanyang Agric.

University China.

08 v. China Liaoning University of Technology, China.

02 vi. Turkey Faith University, Turkey.

10 vii. India Lovely Professional University, India.

2 viii. Malaysia University of Technology, Malaysia (UTM).

01 (PHD) TOTAL = $1,742,242.00.

629,238 376,782 40,293 226,360 82,365 297,630 51,800 37,774

Accordingly, Council noted and approve for the release of the aggregate sum of $1,742,242.00 for the sponsorship/ relocation of 56No. students under the 502 Scheme, and to be disbursed according to the details below; • Tuition Fees, Accommodation, Examination/ Registration Fees to be paid directly to the Institutions.

• Students’ Upkeep, Book Allowances, Laptop Computer, Visa, Flight Tickets, Agency Fee and Pocket Money to be released to the Office of the Secretary to the State Government. a) Request for Funds to Enable Payment of Quarterly Sitting Allowances (June and July, 2014) to the Shura Council:The Secretary to the State Government submitted this request for consideration by Council on behalf of the Kano State Shura Council and its eleven (11) Sub – Committees.

Six (6) requirements were presented for consideration along with their financial implications in the sum of N10,704,000.00 which was requested for release.

The routine nature of the request prompted Council to grant approval as request. b) Request for Funds to Enable Reimbursement of Medical Bills and One Month Extension Allowances to Two (2) Kano State Indigenous Students Sponsored for Studies at ATLIM University Turkey:The Kano State Scholarship Board endorsed and submitted this request which was presented on its behalf for consideration by Council through the Office of the Secretary to the State Government.

The two (2) Students (Kabiru Abba Tafida and Hussaini Jibrin Bello) are among the State Sponsored students under the 501 Postgraduate Scheme. Kabiru was ill but was treated at the cost of $750.00 by the School as directed in expectation of reimbursement by the Kano State Government as his sponsor.

Further, Kabiru and Hussaini could not complete their respective study programmes on schedule (June, 2014) due to their inability to complete writing/producing their Thesis which warranted for an extension of one (1) month with the cost implications to the tune of $900.00.

Council noted, considered and approved for the release of $1,650.00 in respect of the two students to the Office of the Secretary to the State Government for onward payment to the State Scholarship Board for the purpose.

Rabi’u Musa Kwankawaso The State Urban Planning and Development Authority (KNUPDA) substantiated the request which was presented to Council for consideration by the Secretary to the State Government.

The details were summarized and presented to Council as follows; • Ninety one (91) major roads in Kano Metropolis were covered in the interlock tiling project from inception of the second (2nd) incumbency of Governor Engr. Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, FNSE (i.e. from December, 2011) to date.

• The sum of N1,240,056,090.71 was approved and released for the project as covered by thirteen (13) Executive Council Extracts presented to Council for information.

• Currently the sum of N101,000.00 cash is physically at KNUPDA. • In this respect, N1,309,593,415.24 was expended by KNUPDA in the execution of the interlock tiling project plus other minor related works, drainage maintenance, etc. An outstanding balance payment to the tune of N70,376,119.53 still exists.

Council noted the report with appreciation. e) Request for Funds to Enable Replacement of Three (3) Grounded Vehicles Attached to the Office of the Deputy Governor/Honourable Commissioner, Ministry for Local Governments:The Secretary to the State Government endorsed this request and presented it to Council for consideration.

Accordingly, Council considered and approved for the release of the sum of N22,500,000.00 for the procurement of one (1) brand new Toyota Land Cruiser V8, 2014 Model to the Office of the Deputy Governor/Honourable Commissioner, Ministry for Local Governments for official undertaking.

c) Presentation of report on Money Returned to the State Government Treasury in Relation to Sixty (60) Kano State Indigenous Students Sponsored for Studies in Ukraine and their Relocation:The Secretary to the State Government reminded Council, through contents of this memorandum, of its approval granted for the return of the sixty (60) Kano State Indigenous Students sponsored for studies in Ukraine and their relocation to other Countries in response to the Political Turmoil in that Country.

In view of the above, the sum of N13,200,000.00 was approved and released to the Office of the Secretary to the State Government for onward payment to the Traveling Agency that conveyed the students.

Accordingly, Council noted with appreciation the sum of N10,537,200.00 was paid to the Traveling Agency in respect of fifty four (54) students and the balance of N2,626,800.00 was submitted to State Central Treasury.

f) Presentation from the Committee on the Screening of Members of the Meat Haulers Association for the Take – Off of Kwankwasiyya Meat Haulers Empowerment Scheme:The four (4) – Member Committee which comprise the Honourable Commissioners, Special Duties, Science and Technology, Agriculture and Natural Resources and Women Affairs and Social Development conducted its assignment successfully.

Accordingly, only one hundred (100N0.) Members of the Meat Haulers Association were screening/assessed as qualified for the empowerment programme. Details on their names, GSM numbers and contact address were presented to Council for consideration.

Council acknowledged and endorsed the list of one hundred (100) Members from the Meat Haulers Association for the Empowerment Programme. g) Presentation of Report on the Status of the Execution of Free Education Policy in Kano State:The Ministry of Higher Education originally submitted a memorandum on the aboved issue. Council approved the constitution of a seven (7) Member Committee under the Chairmanship of Honourable Commissioner, Ministry for Special Duties to study the memorandum and report its findings for consideration.

The Committee executed its assignment and presented ten (10) relevant findings to Council for consideration. In this regard the Committee forwarded six (6) recommendations for consideration and approval by Council which were appraised and approved as follows; • Release of fifty percent (50%) of the recommended sum of N1,103,490,352.00 (i.e. N551,745,176.00) to the Ministry for Higher Education as registration fee for fresh and returning Kano State Indigenous Students studying in other non Kano State Owned Tertiary Institutions.

• Council directed that the Committee on the Screening/ Verification of Kano State Indigenous Students be recalled and assigned to re – verify all qualified students for the refund of their registration fee for the 2013/2014 academic season.

d) Presentation of Progress Report in Respect of the On – Going Garden Interlock Tiling Project Along Pedestrian Walkways of Major Roads in Kano Metropolis:-

1.

OFFICE OF THE HEAD OF CIVIL SERVICE Request for Funds to Enable Re – Imbursement to an Indigenous Kano State Neurosurgical Doctor Approved

63

THE NATION MONDAY, AUGUST 25, 2014 for Sponsorship to Undergo a 2 – Year PhD Programme in Paediatric Neurosurgical Endoscopy of the Brain:The State Head of Civil Service endorsed and presented the request for consideration by Council on behalf of the State Ministry of Health.

This case was deliberated upon by the State Manpower Training Committee (STMC) at a meeting held on 26 th February, 2014 along with sixteen (16) others.

Special consideration was accorded to this Officer in understanding of the difficulties encountered throughout the duration of his programme at the Institute of Postgraduate Studies Almaty, Kazakhstan.

The Officer was able to complete his course without receiving a kobo from the approved sum of N6,393,380.00 which was requested for release to enable reimbursement to him.

Council considered the details presented and granted approval for the release of the sum of N6,393,380.00 to the Office of the Head of Civil Service for onward payment to the beneficiary.

2.

MINISTRY OF HEALTH a) Request for Funds for the Purchase of Two (2) Operational Vehicles for the Executive Secretary and Board Headquarter – State Primary Health Care Management Board (PHCMB):This request was submitted to Council for consideration in respect of the nature of duties undertaken by the PHCMB which include supervision, monitoring/evaluation of services, coordination and control of services, etc. All these required the utilization of serviceable vehicles to effect prompt movement from one point to another.

Council was requested to approve for release of N11,650,000.00 to enable procurement of two (2) operational vehicles for use at the State PHCMB as a reputable Contractor was identified for the project as follows; i.

Supply of one (1) Toyota Hilux Double Cabin Pick Up = N6,950,000.00 ii. Supply of one (1) KIA RIO Saloon = N3,940,000.00.

Council acknowledged the request and approved for the release of the sum of N10,890,000.00 from the Basket Funds available at the PHCMB for the stated purpose. b) Presentation on the Need and Request for Funds to Enable Construction of Three (3) Additional Classrooms and Procurement of Fifty (50) Units Additional Computer and Accessories for Students at the School of Health Technology, Kano:The Ministry of Health notified Council, through contents of this memorandum that, the Health Records Officers Registration Board of Nigeria granted three (3) years full accreditation to the School of Technology, Kano to continue with the Health Information Technician Programme. In this respect, the Board recommended for the construction of three (3) additional classrooms to accommodate the students as well as provision of fifty (50) more Computers and accessories.

Council acknowledged the presentation and approved as follows; • The State Ministry of Works, Housing and Transport to construct one (1) Kwankwasiyya Proto – Type four (4) classroom block at the School of Health Technology, Kano.

• The Secretary to the State Government to process the procurement and allocation of fifty (50) Units of Computers to the School of Health Technology, Kano. c) Presentation of Report on the Recruitment Tour to Cairo, Egypt for Doctors and Request for Funds to Pay for their Expenses Enroute Kano:The Ministry of Health reminded Council, through contents of this memorandum, of its directive to his Ministry to form a three (3) – Member Committee to embark on recruitment tour to Cairo, Egypt for Medical Doctors.

The Committee was formed, undertook the tour and recruited sixteen (16) Medical Doctor and one (1) Pharmacist. Details were presented to Council for consideration along with the request for the release of N9,182,382.50 to cater for their expenses enroute Kano.

Council noted, considered and approved as requested. d) Presentation on the Need and Request for Funds to Enable Execution of Renovation/Conversion Works at the Selected Health Facility at Yar’ Gaya to Accommodate Anticipated Ebola Virus Disease Patients in Kano State:In its response to the current international agitation on the outbreak of the deadly Ebola Virus Disease and the need to quarantine patients already suffering from its infection, the State Ministry of Health submitted this request for consideration by Council.

Details on the six (6) items required were assessed and estimated to cost the sum of N33,469,919.48.

Council appraised the requirements and approved the release of N25,119,269.48 to cater for five (5) of the six (6) items required (i.e. minus procurement and installation of one (1) unit 50KVA electricity generator which was directed to be installed by the State Ministry of Works, Housing and Transport). e) Presentation on the Urgent Need and Request for Funds to Enable Procurement of Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) for Prevention of the Ebola Virus Disease:Concern on the current threat of the Ebola Virus Disease prompted the Ministry of Health to submit this request to Council for consideration. Details were summarized and presented as follows;

SN DESCRIPTION i. Purchase of PPE Device ii. Sanitizers/Decontaminants

QTY UNIT PRICE (N) 100 20,000.00 5 0 5,000.00

TOTAL COST (N) 2,000,000.00 250,000.00

Council noted, considered and approved for the release of the sum of N2,250,000.00 for the stated purposes.

1. MINISTRY OF HIGHER EDUCATION Presentation of Information Memorandum (IM) on the Distribution of 250 Laptop Computers to Kano State Indigenous Students Sponsored for Studies at Igbinedion University, Okada, Edo State:The present administration in Kano State under the capable leadership of the second (2nd) incumbency of Governor Engr. Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, FNSE was profusely applauded on the execution of commendable projects in line with its resolution to positively transform the Education Sector in all ramifications and at all levels for the better.

Sponsorship/empowerment of Kano State Indigenous Students for studies anywhere in the world is prominent in which various Schemes were approved for execution.

These include the 501 and 502 Sponsorship Schemes for Kano State Indigenous Students, the Commercial Pilot Study Scheme, the Maritime Study Scheme, MBBS, Pharmacy and other Undergraduate and Postgraduate Studies in viable courses offered in various Universities and Countries Abroad. Other students were sponsored for studies at Crescent and Bells Universities, Otta, Ogun State.

Igbinedion University Okada, Edo State is among the Universities to which two hundred and fifty (250) Kano State Indigenous Students were sponsored for studies.

As such, this submission was presented in respect to them. The approved number of 250 Laptop Computers were procured of which 245 were successfully distributed to the students excepts five (5) of them that voluntarily withdrew from the University.

Accordingly, the sum of N240,000.00 as allowances for four (4) of the students was realized as surplus and returned to the Kano State Government Treasury as adequately substantiated.

Council acknowledged the presentation with appreciation.

MINISTRY OF WORKS, HOUSING AND 2.

TRANSPORT a) Request for Funds to Enable Payment for Diesel (AGO) Supplied to the Taskforce on Installation/ Repairs/Reactivation of Street and Traffic Control Lights:The commendable work executed by the Taskforce on the Installation / Repairs / Reactivation of Street and Traffic Control Lights needed no emphasis from the Ministry of Works, Housing and Transport in submitting the request.

The Taskforce continuously provides lighting on the major streets of Kano Metropolis despite the epileptic/ unreliable supply of electricity from the PHCN, for the month of June, 2014 Council was requested to approve for the release of the sum of N93,022,160.00 to pay for quantities of diesel supplied.

Authenticity of the request prompted Council to approve the release of the requested sum of N93,022,160.00 to the supplier of the stated quantity of diesel supplied to the Taskforce Committee. b) Request for Funds to Enable Reconstruction/ Relocation of the Perimeter Wall Fence at the WRECA Premises Located Along Aminu Kano Way:The reconstruction/renovation works executed on the Mallam Aminu Kano Way affected the perimeter wall fence of the WRECA premises located at Gworon Dutse along Aminu Kano Way. The perimeter wall fence requires reconstruction/ relocation for which the scope of works required was assessed and estimated to cost the sum of N6,949,780.00.

Council noted, considered and approved for the release of the sum of N6,949,780.00 from the contingency reserved funds under WRECA for the stated purpose.

MINISTRY OF WATER RESOURCES 3.

Request for Funds to Enable Procurement of Service Materials for Four (4) 2000KVA Caterpillars Model Electricity Generators as well as Conduct Repairs of Electricity Generator No. 3 at Challawa Water Works Power Station:Submission of this request was prompted by the following reasons; i.

The four (4) 2000KVA Caterpillar Model Electricity Generators cited in this request attained their technically prescribed service period. ii.

The No. 3 electricity generator at Challawa Water Works Power Station developed a problem of water leaking from its top cylinder and galleries.

Details were presented to Council for consideration along with the request for the release of the sum of N6,363,296.12 for the stated purpose.

Council considered and approved as requested.

MINISTRY OF LAND AND PHYSICAL 4.

PLANNING Presentation on Demarcation of Sharada GP Block of Flats:This presentation was originally submitted to Council for consideration from the Ministry of Works, Housing and Transport.

However, the Ministry of Land and Physical Planning was directed to study the memorandum and advise

Government on the issue raised therein. The three (3) options presented were critically studied and the State Government was advised to adopt option (a) as it permits the demarcation of the GP Houses as per the Consultant’s recommendations and where carve – out is involved; the title be amended to reflect the actual ground situation.

Council acknowledged the details presented in a satellite imagery of the location and approved the adoption of option (a) for the demarcation of the GP Block of Flats at Sharada as recommended.

MINISTRY OF RURAL AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT Request for Funds to Enable Provision of 300KVA Electricity Transformer at the College of Nursing and Midwifery, Madobi:The College of Nursing and Midwifery Madobi was established courtesy of the able leadership of the second (2nd) incumbency of Governor Engr. Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, FNSE, congruent with the resolve of this administration to provide for the positive transformation of the Health Sector in all ramifications.

The State Rural Electricity Board (REB) identified the School as in need of the installation of a 300KVA electric transformer and other electrical gadgets assessed and estimated to cost the sum of N9,556,999.00 and a reputable Contractor was identified for the project.

Council noted, considered and approved the release of the sum of N9,556,999.00 to enable provision of the 300KVA electricity transformer at the College of Nursing and Midwifery Madobi on contractual arrangement to be supervised by the State Ministry of Rural and Community Development.

5.

MINISTRY OF EDUCATION 6.

Request for Funds to Enable the Establishment of Bilingual Girls’ College at Zinder, Niger Republic:Pursuant to the Cordial Bilateral agreement signed between the Governments of Kano State and Niger Republic, the Ministry of Education submitted the request for consideration by Council.

Council was reminded of its approval granted for the release of N153,431,910.00 for the establishment of a Boys’ Bilingual Secondary School in Niamey, Niger on 19th December, 2012. The school was established and took – off with the admission of two hundred (200) (100 from each party) students. In this direction similar opportunity should be provided for our female students by the establishment of a school especially for them at a different location in Zinder, Niger Republic.

Details of the requirements were assessed and estimated to cost the sum of N441,912,022.07.

Council considered and approved as requested.

UPDATE ON ACTIVITIES OF THE 163rd EXCO SITTING

1.

DONATION OF BOOKS ON COMPUTER LEANING Council noted with appreciation the donation of 1000No. Text books on computer learning for Primary Schools by Messrs. Tsangarwa Nigeria Ltd to the State Government which was received by the Hon. Commissioner for Science and Technology.

2. VISIT OF THE ASSOCIATION OF MOTHERS OF THE STUDENTS SPONSORED BY THE KANO STATE GOVERNMENT Council noted the solidarity visit paid by the Association of Mothers of the Student sponsored by the State Government to study at various Universities within and outside Nigeria where they declare their support and loyalty on its educational policies and programme that are beneficial to the citizenry. They also disassociated themselves from the unfounded allegation by one of the students studying, in India who lied that the allowances due to him were not paid.

3. COMMISSIONING OF ISLAMIYYA SCHOOL AT DAN GWARO VILLAGE Council noted with appreciation the construction and furnishing of an Islamiyya school at Dangwauro Village by Seven-up Bottling Company Plc as a Corporate Social Responsibilityl the official commissioning ceremony was witnessed by the Hon. Commissioner for Rural and Community Development who represented the Executive Governor.

4. PRESENTATION OF AN AWARD FROM THE NATIONAL PRODUCTIVITY CENTRE, ABUJA TO GOVERNOR ENGR. RABI’U MUSA KWAKWASO, FNSE Council noted the presentation of an award of Excellence Service delivery to the Governor by the National Productivity Centre on 21st day of August, 2014 at Abuja. The Hon, Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources represented the Governor at the occasion.

SIGNED: HON. COMMISSIONER, INFORMATION, INTERNAL AFFAIRS, YOUTH, SPORTS & CULTURE, KANO STATE

TODAY IN THE NATION

MONDAY, AUGUST 25, 2014 TRUTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM

VOL 9 NO 2,949

‘The ordinary people of the state may turn out victims if this rancour is taken to political campaigns. It is therefore vital that all those seeking the mandate of the Imo electorate abide by the rules of engagement’

COMMENT & DEB ATE EBA

S

HE has become the city on a hill. Luminous. Heroic. She cast her quixotic light over the pall of a people. But Nigeria was supposed to be a shelter for self-absorbed individuals who cared little for anyone other than their own. Yet when many forswear the country as a breeder of heroes, a heroine emerges. In life and in death.

We waited for Dr. Ameyo Adadevoh to die, to succumb to the sly finality of Ebola.

The germs snatched her before we bowed to the gem that roosted among us. Act one: She met the now notorious Liberian and Ebola carrier called Patrick Sawyer. Act two: She battled him until he rattled in the hospital cage. Act three: she caught the disease. Act four: Physician became patient.

But when the physician-turned-patient sighed her last, it was neither the patient nor physician who died. It was a person, a woman, a mother, a wife, a neighbour, a humanist, a heroine, a Nigerian. These incarnations fashioned the story we now know as the Dr. Adedevoh sacrifice. That was act five. Curtains close. The play haunts an ogle-eyed nation, forever.

She was not supposed to be on duty, could have been ensconced in the safety of home and family. She did not crave death, but death craved her. “Because I could not stop for death/He kindly stopped for me,” crooned poet Emily Dickinson. Adadevoh just wanted to do her job. Sawyer wanted to escape. Death spread its sooty hands.

If Ebola can pass as a metaphor for Nigeria’s other woes, Adadevoh signified a fighting spirit. The disease at this stage is in its infancy in Nigeria. To kill it now will make a virtue of infanticide. The efforts of the governor of example, Babatunde Raji Fashola, SAN, to contain the spread reflects a reflex of a ready government.

Yet, we cannot but look at Ebola, especially its capacity to spread, in the context of our non-biological plagues. They start as though they are nothing. When Ebola started ravaging other countries, we presumed national immunity. In spite of warnings, the Federal Government did not step up immigration controls and border monitoring.

We assumed, in our zest for pious grace, that God would not let it into our midst.

That was how our major ailments as a people began. When the Niger Delta insurgents sowed its first seeds, we passed off the militants as irritants. Militancy morphed into a monster. Gurgling our oil

RIPPLES Moyes: I TRIED TO SIGN RONALDO, BALE, FABREGAS

••• and what of MESSI, NEYMAR and DIEGO COSTA?

SAM OMATSEYE

IN TOUCH

intouchnation@gmail.com 08054501081(sms only) Twitter: @samomatseye

Acts of Adadevoh

‘

If Ebola can pass as a metaphor for Nigeria’s other woes, Adadevoh signified a fighting spirit.

The disease at this stage is in its infancy in Nigeria. To kill it now will make a virtue of infanticide. The efforts of the governor of example, Babatunde Raji Fashola, SAN, to contain the spread reflects a reflex of a ready government.

•The late Dr. Adadevoh

with bunker and bunkering mentality.

Blustering about justice but seeking none and showing none. Showy in rhetoric and lifestyle. Lapping billions as blackmail and bargains as their megalomaniac frontrunners rolled in the lap of luxury.

Boko Haram started as featherweight zealots on the fringe. We might have waved them a cynical goodbye, but they grew and grew. Now they have attacked military headquarters, stirred a mutiny, made hermit of our president, immiserated our people, denied God and Satan in the same breath, mocked the first lady’s lit-

’

eracy, vulgarised our vocabulary, installed an emir, installed flags, popularised a bevy of school girls, radicalised a region and a religion, and paralysed governments.

We can say same of kidnapping. It grew quickly into a high and dark comedy.

From school girls to minister’s mother.

From about-to-weds to the president’s uncle. One Christmas, travel to the Southeast was a surrender to the net.

But all of this came because of a perversity of bad governance that pauperised and alienated a people. What pauperised us?

Corruption. Yet, Nigeria was never this corrupt. In the 1950’s and 1960’s, corrup-

HARDBALL

H

ARDBALL is weary, he is sore, he is hoarse and he feels like the Biblical John the Baptist wailing in the wilderness. Like in those Herodic days, the more one wails, the more hardy and unyielding the tormentors get. They revel, they wine, they dine and embark on binges of spurious seminars and conferences. They do everything but the proper things. Their every action is a mockery of the preacher, making him seem like one suffering dementia. Is the preacher losing his mind or have our leaders completely lost their souls?

Is Hardball merely crying wolf or is Nigeria rapidly failing? This question was stirred by a recent report in a national daily, which says that churches and worship centres flourish in abandoned industrial estates. We all know that our industries and, indeed, the entire manufacturing sector of our economy have been in rapid decline since crude oil assumed pre-eminence here in the late 70s. We knew that the fact of our decayed and unsustainable infrastructure system will not allow any meaningful growth and development of our real sector.

Lately, we have seen long-established multinational brands like Dunlop and Coca-Cola close shop entirely or scale

EMEKA OMEIHE

tion was reviled. Today, the term stomach infrastructure has become a plebian way of sanctifying stealing, especially when the president distinguished it by distinguishing it from corruption. Nzeogwu’s coup statement fulminated against those he described as ‘10 percenters’. In other words, the government men, politicians and contractors stole 10 per cent of the contract sum. Today, they steal a lot more, sometimes up to 100 per cent. Contracts are reviewed deliberately to magnet new funds.

It has infiltrated everywhere. Education is no longer important except as a mark of vanity. My former teacher Biodun Jeyifo lamented in one of his recent columns in The Nation on Sunday about parent apathy to education. He had visited one of Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi’s model schools that he praised for their potential to produce Nobel laureates in science. But the administrators told him the parents of the children were not interested in their wards’ educational progress. Why would they when illiterates basked in billions and barked at educated and urbane people who worked for them!

The last WASCE results showed only about 31 per cent pass. Yet when a Governor Kayode Fayemi or Governor Adams Oshiomhole insists on standards, the outcry of foul play ensues. When we know that so-called okada riders are a menace to the health and safety of a people, some socalled literate people turn it into a cynical campaign ploy. Or when we know that university education of quality is never cheap anywhere in the world, we holler about elitism without seeking ways to tackle it.

It is corruption that started by instalments in the 1960s that has rotted the flesh. It kills our cells with the malignant consistency of an Ebola disease. I am impressed with the way the government both Jonathan’s and especially Fashola’s government - has shown sensitivity to the spread of Ebola. If we had shown such moral gravity in our other challenges, we would be a nation of envy, not mockery.

Adadevoh represented that vitality. She has shown that all is not dire for us. Albert Camus made the point in his classic novel, The Plague. It is a novel less about diseases of the body but of society. The human spirit triumphs when everyone stops seeing the problem as others’ but everyone’s. That is the legacy of Adadevoh. If hopefully, Ebola is finally behind us, her self-sacrifice will account for why an endemic did not become a plague.

•Hardball is not the opinion of the columnist featured above

Like John the Baptist wailing in the Nigerian wilderness down their operations in Nigeria; preferring our neighbours - Ghana and Togo. We have seen well known conglomerates wobble for a long time and eventually succumb to Nigeria’s morbid environment. We have seen medium to large scale FMCG manufacturers go to dust just because our leaders do not care. Companies like Komatsu, Crittal Hope, Suzuki, Tate and Lyle, BEWAC, BEREC, to name just a few, have all gone with the unrelenting Nigerian ill-wind.

Yes we also knew that throughout the 90s, warehouses and some failed factory premises were acquired by the new wave Pentecostal churches. The sprawling expanse of Chris Okoties’s Household of God in Ikeja, Lagos, for instance, rose from the ruins of some brick factory. The same fate befell industrial estates in Iganmu; Ilupeju; Apapa-Oshodi Expressway and so on.

If you thought that the act of churches and worship centres gobbling up factories and industrial complexes was a passing fad, you may wish to visit Oregun which is Lagos’ and perhaps Nigeria’s pre-eminent industrial

cluster. Well laid out, purpose-built and the dream of large multinational firms, Oregun Industrial Estate was once the pride of Lagos State and, indeed, Nigeria - but not any more.

According to a report, most parts of the Oregun Industrial Estate may have been acquired by a Christian Centre which is headquartered there. “The Church, it was learnt, has acquired the premises of many defunct companies in its vicinity.”

Well for the faithful, it may well be the Word at work; prayers answered and promises fulfilled. Jabez prayed that the Lord may bless him exceedingly and expand his coast.

And King David the Psalmist, writing in verse one of his 24th installment, notes that “The earth is the Lord’s and its fullness.”

Well, when church overcomes an entire industrial estate, it may well betoken that the Word is spreading. But by the same token, when hundreds of thousands turn out for a job interview as if they have come to watch a world cup final and dozens die in the ensuing stampede, does that betoken that the country is failing?

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