August 29, 2014 by The Nation

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Scores put under watch as Ebola kills another doctor

Wife shows symptoms Amaechi cautions against panic WHO: 20,000 at risk

HERE was panic yesterday in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital where a doctor died of the Ebola Virus Disease (EVD). Dr. Iky Sam Enemua is the second doctor and the sixth person to have died since Liberian-American Patrick Sawyer imported the disease into Nigeria on July 20.

From Vincent Ikuomola, Abuja and Rosemary Nwisi, Port Harcourt

The late Enemua, a private practitioner’s death has extended the outbreak of the disease outside Lagos where it had been confined. The widow of the victim, who is also a doctor, took care of him while he was ill. She has been quarantined. Her test result was being expected last

night. Minister of Health Prof. Onyebuchi Chukwu and Rivers State Commissioner for Health Dr. Sampson Parker spoke yesterday on the Port Harcourt case. Governor Rotimi Chibuike Amaechi, in a broadcast, stated the measures being taken by the government to battle the disease. He urged the people

to shun rumour mongering and not to panic. The commissioner said: “Dr. Iky Sam Enemua died last Friday, as a result of what was suspected was Ebola Virus Disease(EVD). The Rivers State Ministry of Health, on becoming aware of the conditions of his death, quickly commenced investigations and contact tracing.

“As at today (yesterday), about 100 contacts from a hotel, patients of Dr. Enemua, patients of the hospital where he was treated until his death have been identified, and restricted in Rivers State. “The locations have been decontaminated. We have promised to be open and candid with the public on our efforts to tackle Ebola virus.

“Some facts have emerged from our investigation. An employee of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) on the team that received the late Patrick Sawyer, the LiberianAmerican who died of Ebola disease in Lagos, made a trip to Port Harcourt. He checked into a hotel and met Continued on page 4

Cameroon bombs Boko Haram camp •Sect takes over church From Duku Joel, Damaturu

OKO Haram has suffered a heavy casualty after coming under attack from Cameroon’s army. The Cameroonian army shelled one of the Islamist sect’s camps across the border, killing “many” fighters, according to a security official. The source said the army shelled the camp on Wednesday evening, two days after the jihadist group seized control of Gamboru Ngala on the border with Cameroon. “It was tanks stationed on the frontier at Fotokol (on Cameroon’s side of the border) that shelled the camp on the other side,” the source said on condition of anonymity. “Seen from Fotokol this morning, Gamboru looks empty and smells of death,” he added. “Nobody knows how many Boko Haram members were killed, but it is obvious that many were.” The shelling was confirmed by a local police officer. “These were abandoned houses that they have occupied since they entered Gamboru. We think they still control the town, because there are many of them and they didn’t all gather in the same place,” he said. All was calm in Fotokol by Wednesday following days of panic as residents fled to esContinued on page 4

WHERE ARE THE CHIBOK GIRLS KIDNAPPED ON APRIL 15?

•THE REAL DEAL: Real Madrid’s forward Cristiano Ronaldo with his UEFA European Player of the Year trophy in Monaco, France...yesterday.

PHOTO: AFP

PDP waiver row grows as Mu’azu rejects report Clark: reject Ribadu Chair, others at Villa Modibo: I’m qualified

•P4

•CHIME PICKS ANOTHER DEPUTY P9 •OMISORE SUBMITS 850-PAGE PETITION P8

THE NATION FRIDAY, AUGUST 29, 2014

NEWS

My conscience says man who •From left: President Goodluck Jonathan, Minister of Agriculture Akinwunmi Adesina, Director-General, National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), Chris Onyemenam and Group Managing Director, Access Bank Herbert Wigwe during the PHOT:O AKIN OLADOKUN. launching of the National e-ID Card at the Presidential Villa in Abuja... yesterday.

Umar Yusuf did what a few in his position would have done. He found a customer’s dollar bills running into over 100,000 and returned it intact. For this, the reception manager has been honoured by the government of Jigawa State at the grand finale of its 23rd anniversary celebration in Dutse. Yusuf has been the toast of his Jigawa Hotels employer and lovers of honesty, writes Asst. Editor OLUKOREDE YISHAU

H •From left: Special Adviser to the Transport Minister on Maritime, Mr. Ndabawa, Manager, Government Relations Nigerian Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) Limited, Charles Okon, Director, Maritime Services, Ministry of Transport, Alhaji Nagogo, Minister of Transport, Senator Idris Abubakar,MD/CEO, NLNG, Babs Omotowa and General Manager, External Relations, NLNG, Kudo Eresia-Eke during a visit by the NLNG management to the ministry in Abuja.

•From left: CEO, O3 Capital, Mr Abimbola Pinhiero, Chairman, O3 Capital, Chief Bode Emmanuel and Country Manager,Verve Int'l, Mrs Oremeyi Akah during the launch of the O3 Credit Card in Lagos...yesterday.

•Founder, Obat Group of Companies, Olugbo of Ugboland, Oba Obateru Akinruntan (left) discussing with the President, Poland Africa Congress, Dr. Witold Gerlicz during the investment\ business visit of the Poland Africa Congress to the monarch in Ondo State.

E lives in a country ranked the 144th most corrupt. Nigeria, where Umar Yusuf, a reception manager at Jigawa Hotels, proudly identifies as his country, shares this dubious status with failed states, such as Afghanistan, North Korea and Somalia. Nigeria only managed to defeat countries, such as Iraq, Syria, Libya, Sudan and South Sudan, Chad, Equatorial Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Haiti, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan and Yemen of the 177 countries surveyed. The rating, which has not significantly improved despite the anti-corruption efforts of the government, remains a sore point for Africa’s most populous country. But Yusuf, who saw and returned a customer’s missing N17 million, has shown that despite the grim corruption index of his country, there is hope that someday Nigeria with his likes can share the same space with Denmark and New Zealand seen as nearly squeaky-clean by graft watchdog Transparency International in the global survey on corruption. The annual list is the most widely used indicator of sleaze in political parties, police, justice systems and civil services. June 27 started like every other day for Yusuf. He resumed at his work place which is Jigawa State’s best hotel. The hotel boasts of a garden, not far removed from its restaurant. At some point that day, he was around the garden and saw two men sitting and chatting about God-knows-what. Some minutes later the men left the hotel. One of them was a guest, who had just checked out. Not long after, he discovered an Ipad bag where the men were. He reached for it and behold there was over 100,000 dollar bills in the inner compartment of the Ipad bag. The owner checked into the hotel on June 24 and stayed for three days. It was on the third day after checking out that he forgot it at the garden side. For someone whose salary and other emoluments are nothing close to the money he just found, chances are that he would see it as manna from heaven or answered prayer. But not Yusuf, who was born July 15, 1976. “It never occurred to me to take the money for myself,” he told The Nation on phone from his Dutse base yesterday. But why didn’t it occur to him to steal the money? “My conscience‘ll not allow me to rest. Here we have a forgotten item store. What occurred to me was to just inform the management and that

•Yusuf displaying his award after returning to duty at the hotel...on Wednesday.

was what I did. Somebody did the calculation and said it was N17m based on the exchange rate at that time,” he said. Some days later, the contact person who booked the hotel room for the customer called to ask if the cash was recovered. Yusuf said: “He was not even sure where he forgot it. But immediately he asked if I saw it, I just told him the money was with me. He came for it. I asked him to count it and confirm that it was complete but he said there was no need and left. In the first week of July, I got a letter of appreciation for returning the money.” He was not the first member of staff who discovered items forgotten by guests. But that was the first time that huge amount of money was discovered and returned in tact. No wonder, the management of the hotel, better known as Three Star, has treated him like the Golden Boy. “The management gave me an award for the act,” he said. Determined to further sell him as a symbol of honesty, it also recommended him to the owner of the hotel, the Jigawa State government, to be honoured. So, on Wednesday, an elated Governor Sule Lamido, as part of activities marking the state’s 23rd anniversary, presented him with a plaque and a certificate. There was no cash reward, Yusuf told this reporter.

THE NATION FRIDAY, AUGUST 29, 2014

NEWS

e would not’ve allowed me to rest, o found and returned N17million

•Yusuf receiving the award from Lamido (left) in Dutse...on Wednesday.

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He is a great man. The definition of greatness is to discover who you are and to live by it. Though people, friends and family may call him all sorts of names but there is one thing which I know will earn him honour than the rest, and that thing is nothing but honesty Lamido was proud of him and he did not hide his feelings. This newspaper’s facebook page yesterday published Yusuf’s picture where Lamido was presenting the plaque and certificate to him. It became an instant topic for discussion among Nigerians. The picture was re-shared 248 times; it was seen by 155,520 people; and it generated 444 comments. The comments were diverse. Some praised him; others mocked him. Alambo Datonye said: “God bless Yusuf Umar. Your good name is far better than all those with dubious wealth. I don’t know if Mandela was

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the richest man, yet the whole world stood still for him in life and in death. No wealthy man can ever get close to that. A good name is far better than dubious riches.” The views of Ugboga Olatunji tally with Datonye’s. “There are still men of honour and integrity in this country. Don’t look at it and say in your heart, why don’t I collect this money? May God give you more than this in your pocket. It is well.” Another commentator, Chris Da’es, said: “People who don’t know that God rewards will conclude that the man is foolish. One disease (sic) can take the whole cash in a jiffy. I love his

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Can u imagine someone who is honest, trustworthy returning that huge amount of money and they paid him back with ordinary paper certificate? How many hotel workers can do what he did? I know what God commands us to do. So, He will reward this man

demonstration of honesty.” For Pultor Innocent Ogbotobo, Yusuf deserves nothing but commendation. He sees him as a great man, who has written his name in gold. “Before you start judging this man, think about this for a minute. Even if the government gives him job or not, it does not matter; what matters is, he is a great man. The definition of greatness is to discover who you are and to live by it. Though people, friends and family may call him all sorts of names but there is one thing which I know will earn him honour than the rest, and that thing is nothing but honesty because it is written that ‘a good

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name is better than abundant of riches’. I am really inspired by this man’s story. To be a man is not to depend on other people. This is the person that is capable of leading this country. Think about it,” Ogbotobo said. Phemmy Joel feels the government should give him cash reward. “Nawa for our govt o, Aah! Can u imagine someone who is honest, trustworthy returning that huge amount of money and they paid him back with ordinary paper certificate? Aah! No’ wonder corruption speaks out in everywhere in Nigeria. Government could not give him job or better still something out of the money. How

many hotel workers can do what he did? I know God that commands us to do. So, He will reward this man.” For Gladys Iyamu, her problem is with the fact that he was not given a cash reward. “My problem is not the money that he returned, but the baseless certificate that was presented to him. Or is it a bad thing if he is recruited in government job? I don’t know why Nigeria government can’t set good example for others to emulate.” Jaiyeola Joseph feels Yusuf deserves prayer and love. “May God bless him and his entire family. I am proud of you. The owner and hotel management should give him a better award that will transform his life, not mere certificate, at least N5 million should go to his account,” he said. The concern of Olugbenga Thomas Alabi is why the customer was carrying such a huge amount. “How did such huge amount get to the hotel and how on earth will someone forget such amount?” To Owoeye Popularity Highseek, Yusuf was unfair to himself to have refunded the money. His words: “Opportunity never comes but once. This man will surely die in poverty. Hope the fool is not a married man sha, or else his wife and children need to leave him for a better life. Nigeria is a corrupt society. God really wanted to help this man but he misused the opportunity.” Makinde Ogunleye said the country had become a nation where hard work and merit are not rewarded. He said: “We basically live in a world where it is survival of the fittest and virtually gone are the days where hard work and merit were duly rewarded. It is the age of the opportunists, the fittest are the smart, crafty and those with vision. This guy would probably regret his decision for the rest of his life when the bills start coming in and his good name doesn’t mean shit. That is the honest truth.” For Yusuf, who started working in the hotel 15 years ago, money does not make a man. Character does. He says his religion, Islam, does not support stealing what does not belong to you. He has a wife who is proud of him and two children—both boys. His focus now, he said, is to pursue a Higher National Diploma at the Jigawa State Polytechnic, where he earlier bagged an Advanced Diploma in Public Administration. He had his elementary education at the Katutu Primary School in Ringim Local Government Area of Jigawa State. His secondary education was at the Government College, Birnin Kudu. The story of Yusuf may just be unfolding. Though Nigeria is seen by many as an ocean of corruption, again and again the honest ones find their level and excel. Perhaps a national honour is in the offing for Yusuf.

Nigeria targets N116.5b non-oil exports to ECOWAS sub-region by 2015

INISTER of Industry, Trade and Investment Olusegun Aganga has said Nigeria plans to increase its non-oil exports to the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) member-states to N116.5 billion by 2015. He said this would boost intra-African trade. He spoke at the seventh National Council on Industry, Trade and Investment, in Markurdi, yesterday. The minister said the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment has completed a new national trade policy and strategy, which will integrate the country’s industrial, trade and investment priorities. Commissioners of Industry, Trade and Investment deliberated on strategies to fast track eco-

nomic growth through industrialisation, trade and investment In a statement, Aganga, who was represented by the Minister of State for Trade and Investment, Dr. Samuel Ortom said: “In the area of trade, I am glad to inform that we have just completed a new National Trade Policy and Strategy, which will soon be presented to the Federal Executive Council for approval. ”This is the first time in over ten years that the country’s trade policy has been reviewed. For the first time in Nigeria’s history, we will have a trade policy that integrates with the industrial and investment priorities of the Nigerian people. Nigeria’s priorities for trade will facilitate job creation in Nigeria, and boost exports on non-oil products to new markets.

“Some objectives of our Trade agenda include: to achieve non-oil exports to ECOWAS from the present nine per cent to 20 per cent by 2015, with the ultimate goal of increasing the value of Nigeria’s recorded export to ECOWAS from $276.5 million in 2011 to $706.1 million in 2015; increase recorded non-oil export to other African countries from current three per cent of global export to 10 per cent by 2015, and to increase Nigeria’s non-oil as a proportion of total export from current five per cent in 2011 to 20 per cent by 2015, and 40 per cent in 2020. Also, we are putting structures in place to enable us to penetrate the non-traditional markets with high valued-added export products”. The minister said: “We are committed to ensuring our trade commitments work for the

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Nigerian people, and we have begun to see remarkable progress. The value of non-oil products from Nigeria rose to $2.97 billion in 2013, as compared to $2.561 billion in 2012. The trends this year continue to be strong as well. Increasingly we have also begun to see a pivot in Nigeria’s trade links, towards the Eastern Hemisphere, as Asia plays an increasing role in Nigeria’s economic dynamics. ”The Nigerian government has initiated an aggressive diversification through an action plan for accelerated implementation of the Nigerian National Export Strategy and Women in Export Development programme (20122015), and Nigeria’s first Diaspora Export Programme, which taps into the vast network of Nigerians around the world.”

THE NATION FRIDAY, AUGUST 29, 2014

Cameroon bombs Boko Haram camp Continued from page 1

cape the Boko Haram attack on Gamboru. The Catholic Church has complained that the Boko Haram insurgents have taken over the parish rectory of its Church and other houses of Christians after last week’s attack on Madagali in Adamawa State. The Director, Catholic Social Communications incharge of the Maiduguri Diocese, Rev. Fr. Gideon Obasogie, said Christians and Christian institutions had

been at the receiving end of the satanic group.

Fr. Obasogie said in Madagali, “the whole town and the Parish rectory have been occupied by the terrorists; so many structures and items have been vandalised. Dozens killed and a lot of church structures have been burnt down.” Fr. Gideon also lamented the unhindered advancement of the insurgents in the Gwoza part of Borno, a town they have already declared as their Caliphate. In a statement, he said: “The Continued on page 57

Hospital workers protest Ebola victim’s body in teaching hospital’s morgue •Amaechi (centre) with Technical Partners on inspection of the Ebola Temporary Quarantine site at Oduoha community...yesterday

Scores put under watch as Ebola kills another doctor Don’t panic over Ebola, says Amaechi

Continued from page 1

with Dr. Iky Enemua. After a week of his departure, Dr. Enemua took ill and was rushed to a hospital, suffering from fever, diarrhea and vomiting.

“In the course of the treatment, the managing physician became suspicious and took samples for investigation. A few days after, Dr. Enemua died (on August 22) and his body was deposited at a mortuary in Port Harcourt. “Dr. Enemua’s widow, who is also a medical doctor and who cared for him during his sickness has taken ill and been quarantined. “A few hours ago, result of the sample taken from the late Enemua came back and was tested positive for Ebola virus. The diplomat who was seen by the late Dr. Enemua is alive and well. “I urge every Rivers State indigene and residents to remain calm and go about their normal duties. Wash your hands regularly with soap and water, and avoid unnecessary body contacts till further notice. “The government of Rivers State is doing everything possible to contain the effects and spread of the Ebola virus. We have all the material and human resources we need to fight and

IVERS State Governor Rotimi Amaechi yesterday urged the people not to panic over the death of Dr. Iyke Sam Enemuo from the Ebola Virus Disease (EVD). Amaechi, in a special broadcast on the dreaded disease, admonished them to remain calm, saying his administration had put measures in place to contain the disease. The Rivers governor said: “My dear people of Rivers State, we woke up this (yesterday) morning to the sad confirmation that the dreaded Ebola Virus Disease has claimed its first victim in Rivers State. Dr. Iyke Sam Enemua died last Friday, August 22, 2014, as a result of what was suspected to be Ebola Virus Disease. “The State Ministry of Health, on becoming aware of the conditions of his death, immediately commenced investigations and contact tracing. As at today (yesterday), about 100 contacts from a hotel, patients of Dr. Enemua and patients of the hospital, where the late Enemua was treated, until his demise, have been identified and restricted. The different locations are being decontaminated. “Our investigations reveal that an employee of

defeat the deadly virus. “Officials of the Federal Ministry of health and other international agencies are already here working with the state Ministry of Health. Together, I believe we can contain the disease.” A source said last night that the number of those restricted had climed up to between 100 and 150.

From Bisi Olaniyi, Port Harcourt the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) on the team that received the late Dr. Patrick Sawyer, the Liberian-American, who died of ebola haemorrhagic disease in Lagos, Nigeria, made a trip to Port Harcourt, where he checked into a hotel and met with Dr. Iyke Sam Enemua. “About a week after his departure, Dr. Iyke Enemua took ill and was rushed to a hospital, with symptoms of fever, diarrhea and vomiting. In the course of treatment, the managing physician became suspicious and took blood samples for investigation. A few days later, Dr. Iyke Enemua died, precisely on August 22, 2014. Dr. Iyke Enemua’s widow, who is also a medical doctor and who cared for him during his illness, has taken ill. She is being quarantined. The diplomat, who was seen by the late Dr. Iyke Enemuo, is alive and well.” The Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF) chairman also urged all Rivers people to go about their normal businesses, stating that the state government Continued on page 57

News of the death of the doctor heightened fear among people. Private hospitals began to turn down patients with fever cases. Parker admitted the doctor’s death, then identified as a health worker but said result of the medical test was being awaited. Minister of Health Prof. Onyebuchi Chukwu, said the doctor’s

death had increased the number of deaths as a result of the virus in the country to six. The doctor’s case was not managed by the government team; was only made known to the team after his death. The minister said the ban on mass gathering stands, explainContinued on page 57

NIVERSITY of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH) workers protested yesterday against the storage in their morgue of the body of Dr. Iky Sam Enemua, who died of the Ebola Virus Disease (EVD). The displeased employees, who pleaded not to be named, for fear of victimisation, urged the management of UPTH, on the East-West Road in the River State capital, to move the body from the hospital to avoid endangering their lives. The protesting employees also admonished Chief Medical Director (CMD) Prof. Aaron Chinonye Ojule to ensure that the body is moved quickly out of the hospital and to consider the hazards, especially with the University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT), sharing a fence with the

From Bisi Olaniyi, Port Harcourt

UPTH. One of the protesting workers said: “Why did the management of UPTH allow the body of somebody who died of the dreaded Ebola to be in the mortuary of our hospital? We do not want to die now. You know that Ebola is a fast killer. “We are kicking against having the Ebola body in UPTH. Prof. Ojule should save the workers and thousands of students of UNIPORT. Everybody is afraid of Ebola. Our children are still young. We want to be alive to give them qualitative education.” Chairman of the Medical Advisory Committee (CMAC) Dr. Charles Tobin-West, who is next to the CMD, described the proContinued on page 57

Anxiety among residents

IVERS State residents are scared of Ebola Virus Disease (EVD), following the news of a doctor’s death. They are avoiding shaking hands. Mrs. Charity Chukwu, a Rumuokoro, Port Harcourt, trader, said: “I have told my husband and children to avoid handshake.” Speaking under the Rumuola Flyover in Port Harcourt, an undergraduate of the Rivers State University of Science and Technology (RSUST), Port

Harcourt, who would not want his name in print, urged residents and other Nigerians to be vigilant, always wash their hands with soap and to stay in clean environment. A commercial bus driver at Abali Park, Mile One, Port Harcourt, Felix Emeka, said: “My brother, everybody is trying to be very careful. Ebola is worse than HIV/AIDS. It is sad that Ebola has killed somebody in Port Harcourt. My friends, customers and relatives will understand, if I refuse to shake their hands.”

Ribadu waiver request row grows as PDP leaders kick

HE division in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) over the admission of Mallam Nuhu Ribadu and his bid for the ticket to contest for Adamawa Sate governor widened yesterday. Ijaw leader and PDP elder, Chief Edwin Clark warned the party leadership against granting a waiver to enable Ribadu to contest for the ticket. Ribadu, who joined the PDP from the All Progressives Congress (APC) this month, requires a waiver to be able to contest. His application is being considered. The former Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) was the Presidential candidate of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) in the 2011 election. The ACN is one of the parties that fused to form the APC. Governors on the PDP platform are said to be opposed to a waiver for Ribadu. The party’s Board of Trustees (BoT) chairman Tony Anenih is also believed not to be disposed to the waiver. On Wednesday, there was a huge row at the National working Committee (NWC) meeting of the PDP when the waiver was being considered. The meeting was deadlocked. A committee was raised to offer advice on the matter.

Six aspirants protest as Modibo defends membership

IX of the 14 aspirants jostling for the governorship ticket of the Peoples Democratic Party(PDP) have kicked against waiver for the former Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, and four others. The aggrieved aspirants are Dr. Umar Ardo, Mr. Ahmed Gulak, Hon. James Barka, Sen. Andrawus Sawa, Sen. Abubakar Halilu Girei, Dr. Idi Hong,and Alhaji Auwal D. Tukur. They petitioned yesterday the PDP Waiver Committee, which will sit today, urging the party not to grant waiver to Ribadu, a former Military Administrator of Lagos State, Gen. Mohammed Buba Marwa, and a former governorship candidate, Mr. Markus Gundiri. They also asked the party not to grant waiver to two aspirants who did not apply to the Naional Working Committee. From Vincent Ikuomola, Abuja

The committee, according to one of its members and the PDP National Publicity Secretary Mr. Olisa Metuh, submitted it report yesterday. It will be considered by the NWC today. The position of party leader, President Goodluck Jonathan was not known yesterday. There was another major disagreement between Muazu and the NWC members last night. At issue is the leakage of the decision of a sub-committee of

From Yusuf Alli and Gbade Ogunwale, Abuja

The two aspirants are a former Executive Secretary of the Universal Basic Education Commission, Dr. Ahmed Mohammed Modibbo and Gen. Aliyu Kama Modibbo said he had been a member of the PDP since it was formed in 1998 and could not have applied for a waiver. He also quoted his registration number as 5112742. In their petition, the six aspirants said the manner in which the panel handles the waiver crisis would affect the image and fortune of the party. The petition states: “Mr. Chairman, sir, you may be aware that among the list of aspirants who bought the Expression of Interest and Nomination Forms to contest the PDP Guber Primaries are some who constitutionally need waivers to be able to aspire. These include:- (i) Engr. Marcus Gundiri; (ii) Gen.

the NWC rejecting waiver for some aspirants. Muazu sought last night the President’s intervention, taking all NWC members to the Villa at about 9pm. Muazu is said to be disturbed by the disposition of the committee to blade waivers for Ribadu, Marwa and Gundiri. It was learnt that Muazu had suspected that some interests were behind the “conclusion” of the sub-committee headed by the party’s National Organising Secretary, Alhaji Abubakar Mustapha.

Buba Marwa; (iii) Mal. Nuhu Ribadu; (iv)Gen. Aliyu Kama; and (v)Dr. Ahmed Modibbo. “We believe it is to determine their fate in the contest that your panel was constituted. While on personal level, we have absolutely no reason to wish to inhibit them from contesting the governorship of our state on the platform of our great party - for they are all eminently qualified - but on the principle of playing a healthy political game, everybody must play according to the rules of the game. “On this ground therefore we object to their contest as their participation will be an aberration to the election process. The issues against them are both constitutional and moral. “Constitutionally, Mal. Ribadu, Engr. Gundiri and Dr. Modibbo joined the PDP for the first time only recently, while Generals Marwa and Kama returned to the PDP also only

Mu’azu got wind of its recommendation and decideded to “move fast”. Said a source: “The leakage upset Muazu and decided to drag the NWC members to the Villa to find a solution which could accommodate all aspirants. “Muazu decided to take a pre-emptive step because once the report of the SubCommittee becomes public knowledge, it will be difficult to change.” As at press time, the PDP National Chairman and the

Continued on page 57

NWC members were locked in a meeting at the Villa. Southsouth leader Clark queried the rationale behind such consideration especially when Ribadu, according to him, does not have the political weight. He said it would be in bad light should the committee clear Ribadu who just join the party in less than a month. He however exempted former Lagos state military Administrator, Gen. Buba Marwa and a former Continued on page 57

•Chief Clark

OUR ERROR The headline of the lead story on page 25 should read: N600b FAAC fund coming for states, local govts, and not N600b FAAN fund coming for states, local govts. The error is regretted.

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THE NATION FRIDAY, AUGUST 29, 2014

NEWS

'Those blaming Tinubu for defection are insincere'

OUSE of Representatives Minority Whip Samson Osagie has described those blaming former Lagos State Governor Asiwaju Bola Tinubu for the defection of some APC members as "lily-livered". Osagie noted that the populace would lose faith in the political class, if party leaders failed to show commitment to some basic ideals and stopped being men of faith in the fight against the ills of the society. The lawmaker, who represents Uhunmwode/Orhiomwon of Edo State, said those blaming Tinubu are "political heavyweights" who quickly defect when their political interests are not met. Osagie said: "I have observed with dismay that some so-called political heavyweights, who shouted on top of their voices to clamour for change in the nation's political landscape, are the ones who are quick to defect once their immediate interests are not met. They are the ones who would quickly blame Asiwaju Tinubu of having

•Ikimi overpriced himself, says Odigie-Oyegun •Party chair: I'll reply to his nonsense soon From Osagie Otabor, Benin

overbearing influence in the running of the APC. I ask:How? "Unlike the Jagaban (Tinubu), those people have no record of staying outside the comfort zone to remain consistent in opposition parties for long. This attitude worries us, the younger generation of politicians so greatly. Some of the self-acclaimed leaders should learn to live by certain guiding principles and bequeath to the generations coming behind a political tradition that instils confidence rather than having to jump ship once an ambition is not met. "Like or hate Asiwaju, he has remained very consistent with opposition politics since 1999, even with all the might of the Federal Government, which sought to forcefully coerce the Southwest into the ruling party at the federal level. But he remained dogged

ACCA denies ‘no-work’ claims against Nigerian members

and fought back. Today, at least four of the six states in the zone are firmly in the grip of the opposition party. "We must all defend what we believe in and fight for it, the same way those holding our development down continue to hold on to power to ward off the opposition." "No matter what, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu is one rare breed of a consistent, dogged and committed political figure that even the international community acknowledges. No government can also ignore him today. I am sure if the ruling party were to lay hold on him today, they will prize him much more than any of these petty defectors. Let's stop the blame game and focus on our collective destiny through credible and consistent leadership." Also, All Progressives Congress (APC) National Chairman Chief John Adigie-Oyegun has said a former leader of the party, Chief Tom Iki-

mi, is a "boisterous politician" who "overpriced himself". The national chairman said Ikimi accorded "to himself undue importance which he does not deserve". Odigie-Oyegun was reacting yesterday to some comments credited to Ikimi, after his defection from the APC, that he (Odigie-Oyegun) was imposed on the party. But the national chairman said the former Foreign Affairs Minister was giving "himself an influence he does not have in Edo State and Nigeria". He added: "Ikimi is so boisterous that he has overpriced himself. But I will sit down and respond to all his nonsense in the papers. "Ikimi is giving himself undue importance, which he does not deserve. He is insulting all the leaders of the party - from the North and South - that he was the only sensible person in the party. That is not true; that is not possi-

ble. What he is doing is reporting himself to the nation, displaying the kind of person he truly is." The national chairman noted that the wave of defection of former members of the APC and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) was a process of ideological purification. He said: "What is happening, really, is that the PDP and APC are being purified. All the birds that ought to flock together are beginning to fly together. That is a good thing for this country, it is good for the APC and the PDP. "We don't want people who don't think like us, don't have the same ideology and the same commitment to the ideology of the APC. "We are losing some and gaining others. The process of ideological purification is underway. Those who don't share the same belief with us are leaving and we have no regret about that. "I don't know how many votes he (Ikimi) controls that will make us lose Edo State and Nigeria. But we will see."

By Precious Igbonwelundu

he Head of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) Nigeria, Mrs Toyin Ademola, has denied the claim that accounts with the association’s qualification cannot work in Nigeria. She said the claim was sponsored by “mischief makers”, adding that its members and students cannot only work in Nigeria but also in 182 other countries. Mrs Ademola spoke in Lagos after the opening session of the association’s key decision maker to bring together ACCA university partners and tuition providers for more effective partnership. She said: “Our partner universities are asking why they should teach ACCA courses, if persons with the qualifications cannot work. Since we cannot go to all 229 universities, we had to invite them all to explain the real situation to them. “There is this perceived impression about what ACCA students and members can or cannot do. What the summit said is that ACCA members who have not converted to ICAN cannot practise. Practice is different from working. It means they cannot sign off on tax and audit. “We are not struggling on that because not many accountants or finance experts go into audit. ACCA students and members can and are working. “In a country of 177 million people, it is not about competition but growth and adding value. In the United Kingdom (UK), you have several accounting bodies. We can see what it is doing for the English economy. Same applies in America and Australia. “In ACCA, we do not see ourselves as being in a competition. We look at it as different professional bodies that can collaborate with one another, identifying strengths and weaknesses to develop the market.”

•Outgoing Commander, Brig.-Gen. A. S. Maikobi (left) and the new commander, Brig.-Gen. D. A. Lubo, at the signing of the handover and takeover notes of 9 Brigade, Nigerian Army, in Lagos.

APC to Jonathan: TAN’s rallies endanger Ebola control

HE All Progressives Congress (APC) has urged President Goodluck Jonathan to halt the rallies being organised across the nation by the Transformation Ambassadors of Nigeria (TAN) for his re-election. The party noted that the rallies were jeopardising Nigeria’s efforts to control the spread of the Ebola Virus Disease (EVD). In a statement yesterday in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital, by its National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, APC said: “Mr. President, you said your ambition is not worth the life of any Nigerian. But the TAN rallies for your re-election are endangering the lives of thousands of Nigerians in these days of Ebola. Some things must simply transcend politics. This is one of them. Please, stop the rallies now.” It urged the President to ensure that the rally slated for Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital, on Saturday, is stopped, because of the spread of the Ebola virus to the city and the fact that 100 people have been placed under surveillance there, following the death of a doctor from a suspected Ebola disease.

•Party urges President to stop rallies By Olamilekan Andu

APC said: “If TAN goes ahead to organise its rally in Port Harcourt, can anyone guarantee that none of those who have had contact with the doctor will attend? It can only be better imagined the kind of danger that those who will attend the rally will be subjected to. Therefore, President Jonathan has a historic opportunity to put the wellbeing of his compatriots above politics, for once.” The party reminded the President of the statement he made on August 8, when he declared the EVD in Nigeria a national emergency, thus: “Religious and political groups, spiritual healing centres, families, associations and other bodies should, in the meantime, discourage gatherings and activities that may unwittingly promote close contact with infected persons or place others at risk.” It also reminded the President that his administration had postponed the resumption of private and public primary and secondary schools across the nation as part of the measures to curtail the spread of the virus.

APC wondered what message the same government was sending to Nigerians by allowing TAN rallies to continue. It said: “Mr. President, add this to the fact that Nigeria’s economy is losing millions of dollars to the Ebola disease, and you will realise that the need to control the disease supersedes personal political considerations.” The party said the TAN rallies in Awka (Anambra) and Ibadan (Oyo) and the forthcoming ones in Port Harcourt and elsewhere flout the advice by the President against large gatherings that could encourage the spread of the disease. It described as untenable the argument that the rallies were not being organised by the government, hence the President has no control over them. APC said: “Mr. President, you are the sole beneficiary of these rallies. Top officials of your administration, led by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Anyim Pius Anyim, have been attending the rallies. The signatures being collect-

ed by TAN are ostensibly to encourage you to run again. So, this is your show.” The party wondered how Dr Jonathan could, on one hand, be complaining about the stigmatisation of Nigerians by other countries over the Ebola outbreak and, on the other hand, turning a blind eye when his supporters were flouting the Ebola control measures put in place by his administration. It said: “The embassies of the foreign nations in Nigeria are seeing all that is happening. They are seeing how the efforts of the Federal Government to control Ebola are being sabotaged by the supporters of the President. How then can we complain when our citizens are stigmatised abroad? How can we complain when the foreign governments issue travel advisories to their citizens coming to Nigeria? How can we complain when they start barring Nigerians from coming to their countries on account of the Ebola virus? “This is why we are calling on President Jonathan to call his supporters to order today. We are also calling on all wellmeaning Nigerians to prevail on the President not to endanger the lives of Nigerians simply because of his personal ambition.”

President orders NIMC to enrol all Nigerians From Nduka Chiejina and Austin Ehikioya from Abuja

RESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan has ordered the National Identity Database of the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) to register all Nigerians who meet the requirements for registration. He directed Federal Ministries, Agencies and Departments (MDAs) involved in data capture to align their activities in order to switch over to the NIMC infrastructure. The President gave the directives yesterday in Abuja at the launch of the Issuance Process for the National Electronic Identity Card (e-ID Card). Addressing the NIMC board and management, Jonathan said: “The journey to capture the populace, by issuing over 100million Cards has just begun. You should therefore ensure that the issuance process is prompt and swift enough to enable many more Nigerians obtain their own e-ID Cards, as soon as possible.” On the need for the MDAs to harmonise their biometric information, the President mandated the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice and the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to work “in conjunction with the commission, reach modalities for the harmonisation of their biometric projects, including other ongoing projects in other MDAs, with the e-ID card scheme”. To capture the biometrics of government contractors, Jonathan also directed the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) to ensure immediate compliance with the harmonisation directive.

Agency seeks prosecution of electoral offenders From Joseph Jibueze, Owerri

HE National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) said yesterday that it sent the names of those indicted for electoral offences to the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mohammed Adoke (SAN), for prosecution. The commission recently published a preliminary list of names of those indicted for violating the Electoral Act between 2007 and 2011. NHRC Executive Secretary Prof Bem Angwe said more evidence was being gathered to enable the commission charge the indicted persons and institutions to court. Angwe spoke in Owerri, the Imo State capital, when he presented a statutory report on the commission at the annual general conference of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) . He said: “The initial report documents evidence of infractions of the electoral process from the 2007 and 2011 election petition cycles in Nigeria. From the initial report, a preliminary list of names of indicted persons and institutions has been made available to the Attorney-General of the Federation and State Attorneys-General for further investigation and possible prosecution for electoral crimes.”

THE NATION FRIDAY, AUGUST 29, 2014

NEWS Acting IGP urges cadets to be disciplined

NSPMC may print election materials, says Jonathan

From Kolade Adeyemi, Kano

From Nduka Chiejina (Assistant Editor), Austin Ehikioya from Abuja

RESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan has hinted that the Nigeria Security Printing and Minting Company (NSPMC) will print the security materials for future elections. The President spoke yesterday in Abuja at the launch of the Issuance Process for the National Electronic Identity Card (e-ID Card). Jonathan said he had instructed Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) governor to reform and restructure the NSPMC. He said: “I told him (CBN governor) that the Nigerian Security Printing and Minting Company must be reformed. The board must look into its management and get choice global players, who are into this business and partner with them. “There is no way we are doing local government election, electing House of Assembly members, electing governors in Oyo, Ekiti, Adamawa states, that all we will produce will be done outside this country. Other countries produce their needs. We claim to be a giant, a giant that will just send everything out. We empower others (but) we don’t create jobs for our people. “So, the Mint must be restructured for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and other bodies. For the Federal Executive Council (FEC), we cannot give approval for any printing, whether passport or anything else, except the Mint says they cannot produce it. As long as the Mint can produce it, we must produce everything in this country.” The President cautioned that “those who will use these services must have their credibility to protect. That means the Mint must be in a position to tell the INEC Chairman that whatever I give you, the security devices are okay and you will get the result you want. We must change our institutions. We must strengthen to move to the direction we want.”

Ebola can affect 20,000 more, says WHO HE Ebola epidemic in West Africa could infect more than 20,000 people, the U.N. health agency said yesterday, warning that an international effort costing almost half a billion dollars is needed to overcome the outbreak. As the World Health Organisation (WHO) announced its strategic plan for combatting the virus, GlaxoSmithKline said an experimental Ebola vaccine was being fast-tracked into human studies and it plans to produce up to 10,000 doses for emergency deployment if the results are good. The WHO estimates it will take six to nine months to halt the Ebola epidemic in West Africa. Nigeria said on Thursday that a doctor involved in treating the Liberian-American who brought the disease to the country had died in Port Harcourt, Africa’s largest energy hub, although the cause had yet to be confirmed.

•From left: President and Chairman of Council, Nigerian Institute of Management (NIM), Dr. Nelson Uwaga; Etido Iyang; former NIM President, Dr. Sally Adukwu-Bolujoko and Imo State Deputy Governor Eze Madumere, at Awards, Fellows and Spouses’ Day luncheon, organised by NIM, at MUSON Centre, Onikan, Lagos...yesterday.

How to end Boko Haram insurgency, by NLC president N IGERIA Labour Congress (NLC) President Comrade Abdulwaheed Omar has urged the Federal Government to block all the channels for food supply to members of the Boko Haram sect to make them abandon their insurgency. Omar, who addressed reporters yesterday in Abuja, also advised the government to deploy more troops to fight the insurgents. The NLC president noted that experience had shown that closing the exit and entry points for food supplies to insurgents could be a good weapon to defeat them. He said it was high time the nation began to think of alternative means to end the Boko Haram crisis. Omar regretted that Nigerian workers had been at the receiving end of the activities of the insurgents, adding: “The Nigerian workers, especially in the frontline areas of Borno, Adamawa and Yobe states, are the most affected by the insecurity. They are the

From Tony Akowe, Abuja

ones who shuttle between their homes and places of work and these are the people who are caught inbetween. “Quite a number of Nigerians workers have been killed along with other Nigerians. Insecurity is a very serious one. We want to call on the government to intensify efforts, particularly on efforts to combat this problem in areas where it is prevalent. “People have suggested that if you can deploy as many as 30,000 security personnel to monitor an election in a state, there is nothing stopping you from deploying more troops to areas with insurgency and ensure that we end this thing once and for all. “I have always said that when it happened, during the Maitasine era, the Federal Government took decisive

measures and, within three days, it was brought under control. When it happened in Burunkutu in Borno State, the government took decisive measures and, within few days, it was brought under control. I see no reason why such a decisive measure cannot be taken now. “I know that the government is being cautious because we have our daughters in captivity, and it is a very serious issue. I think we should begin to think about other means by which we can end this thing. “Closing up on them is a strategy. If you close up on these people and block all channels through which they can move about, it will force them to come out in search of food and other essentials. That is the best way. If you cannot defeat an enemy through bombardment and other means, you can use siege to

block her to ensure that you force him to either surrender or perish.” On the decision of the government to shift the resumption date for schools across the country because of the fear of the Ebola Virus Disease (EVD), the NLC president said the congress supported any decision to ensure the safety of its citizens. He said: “We welcome any decision taken by the government to ensure the safety and security of its citizens. So, the fact that the government decided to shift the resumption date... Remember that schools are places where children are crowded. In most cases, they are more vulnerable and susceptible to contracting diseases. “So, if the government has gone this extra mile to take this kind of decision, I think it is a welcome development to ensure that Ebola is eradicated and that there is no threat whatsoever before our students resume school. This is a welcome development.”

Tributes as Akunyili is buried in Anambra

ROMINENT Nigerians eulogised the late Information and Communication Minister, Prof Dora Akunyili, yesterday as she was committed to mother earth. The funeral at Madonna's Catholic Church in Agulu, Anaocha Local Government Area of Anambra State, was a emotion-laden ceremony befitting of a national heroine she was. Only the late Biafra warlord, Dim Chukwumeka Odumegwu Ojukwu and literary icon, the late Prof Chinua Achebe, got similar honours. The church was filled to the brim with scores of more people outside. It had not witnessed any such event in the last six years, according to one of priests. The late Akunyili was said to have donated N40 million to the church for its renovation. At the funeral were two Catholic Cardinals - Francis Cardinal Arinze, from Rome and John Cardinal Onaikan from Abuja. Three Archbishops - Martins from Lagos; Anthony Obinna, from Imo and Valerian Okeke, from Anambra states, attended the funeral. Also, 25 Catholic bishops from various parts of the country and over 150 priests were

•Nigerians pay tributes to ex-minister From Nwanosike Onu, Awka

there. Despite the meeting of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Abuja on the same day, scores of the party's chieftains were on hand to honour the former Director-General of the National Agency for Food, Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC). The roll-call included former Head of State, Gen. Yakubu Gowon; his wife, Victoria; former Vice-President Dr. Alex Ekwueme, his wife, Beatrice and wife of former President Olusegun Obasanjo, Bola. Also, Governors Rochas Okorocha (Imo) and Isah Yuguda (Bauchi); House of Representatives Deputy Speaker Emeka Ihedioha; wife of Ebonyi State governor, Mrs Josephine Elechi and her Abia counterpart, Mrs Odochi Orji, attended the ceremony. Former Anambra State governors - Chief Chukwuemeka Ezeife, Mr Peter Obi, Senator Chris Ngige and Mrs Virgy Etiaba, attended the funeral. Information Minister Labaran Maku and Senator Joy Emodi were also among the dignitaries. In his homily, Rev. Damain Akpunonu said Akunyili's

death was a tragedy to her family and the country. He said: "We have come here today not to bury Dora. To bury her is to concede victory to death, which Jesus Christ conquered through his death. "She still lives because of the legacy she left behind. We are here to keep her memories and legacies alive. "Everybody should live a life of remembrance like Dora did. What the family and those she left behind in the country require are prayers. "Dora believed she could make a difference in the society, and she did. She built a legacy that will be difficult for anybody else to rival in this country." After the service, the body, which was placed in a golden coffee casket, was moved to her resting place at the Akunyili compound at exactly 2.15pm. Security men, including the police, Army and paramilitary outfits, were on hand to control the crowd. The popular Agulu-Ekwulobia Road was partially blocked to restrict the movements of motorists. The major mourners, the Edemobi and Akunyili families, wore uniform. Other groups, such as Umuada An-

HE Acting InspectorGeneral of Police (IGP), Suleiman Abba, has urged 657 matriculating pioneer cadets of the Nigeria Police Academy at Wudil, Kano State, to exhibit discipline and be of good character in their courses. Abba, who was represented by Police Commissioner Sunusi Rufai, said the hallmark of a successful officer is good conduct. The police chief said this would make it easy for them to become good ambassadors of the police, after their fouryear degree course. Abba urged the matriculating students to remain focused and ensure that they protect the image of the police. He said: “There is no need for you to be over-ambitious. Don’t be in a hurry; just follow the ladder and do the right thing at the right time. Desist from any kind of criminal act. If you are caught and eventually discharged, you will be charged to court.”

Oyo clears four Ebola ‘suspects’ By Olatunde Odebiyi

HE Oyo State Government have cleared four people suspected to have been infected with the Ebola Virus Disease (EVD). Health Commissioner for Health and the state’s Epidemiologist, Dr Muyiwa Gbadegesin and Dr Gbolahan Abass, told our reporter yesterday that contrary to the rumours that some people had contracted the disease, the four patients who showed symptoms of the EVD tested negative to the virus. They said the four patients were treated in private and government hospitals in Iseyin, Ibadan, Igbo-Ora and Ogbomoso. Gbadegesin said: “The report of the latest suspect among the four patients came in this morning (yesterday) and it was negative. The patient was receiving treatment in Igbo-Ora when he was suspected of have contracted the virus...”

Shoprite opens 11th outlet in Lagos By Tonia ‘Diyan

S •The late Akunyili

ambra from Abuja, were also gaily dressed. Cardinals Onayekan and Arinze offered prayers for the Akunyili family. The eldest son of the deceased, Dr. Edozie Akunyili, on behalf of the family, thanked everybody for honouring his mother. Anambra State Governor Willie Obiano said the people responded to Akunyili's burial because she was good to all. The governor said the late minister left a worthy legacy for generations. He said: "We can make her slogan of good people, great nation, happen in the country without her."

HOPRITE Holdings, the largest retail firm in Africa, opened its 11th store yesterday at the Apapa Mall on Park Lane, Lagos. Shoppers trooped to the store from various parts of the state. The store was stocked with assorted goods, ranging from food items and other household goods. Apapa and other residents in Lagos expressed happiness for the new outlet. They danced to the music from the loud speakers mounted in front of the mall. The shoppers were given free gifts and enjoyed acrobatic displays at the ceremony. Shoprite said it planned to have a flagship store in every city. It promised to offer customer a wide range of products, including groceries, freshly baked meals and a special selection of foods, at affordable prices.

THE NATION FRIDAY, AUGUST 29, 2014

NEWS UCH graduates 172 nurses From Tayo Johnson, Ibadan

Ajimobi (right) acknowledging cheers from leaders of the state NLC chapter at the Governor’s Office, Ibadan ... yesterday.

Ikere’s group mourns monarch’s death By Dada Aladelokun, Assistant Editor

KERE Development Forum (IDF), an umbrella body of indigenes of Ikere community in Ekiti State, has described the death of its monarch, Oba Samuel Adegoke Adegboye, Akaiyejo 11, as a monumental loss. It said the town witnessed unprecedented progress during the 43-year reign of the late Ogoga of Ikere, adding that he had etched his name in gold in the annals of the ancient community. The forum’s National President, Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN) and its National Secretary, Prof. Dele Olowokudejo, in a statement yesterday, said the town witnessed physical development and its indigenes progressed tremendously since the monarch’s enthronement in 1971. “It was during our beloved Oba’s reign that our town got its first State Hospital (now Specialist Hospital) and the Ondo State College of Education and its first tertiary institution, which was established by the old Ondo State Government,” the forum said.

LASG inaugurates CDAs By Nneka Nwaneri

HE Lagos State Government inaugurated yesterday the apex body of Community Development Associations (CDAs) through the Community Development Advisory Council (CDAC). Governor Babatunde Fashola, who spoke at the inauguration through the Commissioner for Rural Development, Cornelius Ojelabi, urged council members to operate a transparent executive and make accountability their watchword. He added that they must always render account of their stewardship at all times. The 26-member executive is to draw up a master plan for a smooth transition during the next year’s elections.

Workers hail Ajimobi over pay rise

YO State government has announced a rise in civil servants’ salaries after a meeting with the state’s Nigeria Labour Congress’ (NLC). Governor Abiola Ajimobi yesterday broke the news to workers, who were queuing to board the free Ajumose buses at the Government Secretariat, Agodi, Ibadan. He said the union would brief the workers on the details of the salary increase, adding that the raise range was between 10 and 30 per cent, depending on the grade level of each worker. Thousands were excited as the news of the salary in-

crement got to civil servants. This came barely 48 hours after the governor approved the outstanding promotions of teachers. The governor, who expressed his administration’s commitment to the welfare of workers, added that the 10 Ajumose buses would convey workers free. He noted that his administration had, since inception, introduced innovations into the civil service to improve the workers’ welfare. Ajimobi said the salary increment would boost their morale, and enhance their commitment and dedication to duties. The civil servants prayed

for the governor and the success of his administration. Commenting on the free buses, two civil servants, Mrs. Adejumo Janet and Mr. Iyanda Yekini, praised Ajimobi, stressing that the initiative had saved them money spent on transportation. A worker, who identified herself simply a s E s t e r , said: “This is novel. We have never had it so good. New things happen successively for the civil servants in the past three years. There is no strike any longer as we used to have in the past because the governor has been doing what the workers

asked for, even beyond our expectation. “We have promotions; no one is sitting over our promotions again. We have free buses to take us to work and drop us at the close of work. We enjoy good relationship with the government - our employer. What else will pitch the workers against the government? “And now, we were told that we are going to enjoy up to 30 per cent salary increment . We are very happy for this and we shall continue to give all our support to ensure t h a t t h e g overnor succeeds.”

Ogun empowers 500 traders, others

IVE HUNDRED lessprivileged people in Ijebu North and Ijebu East Local Government areas of Ogun State have benefited from the second phase of the state’s Community Empowerment Programme. They included traders, community leaders, artisans, religious bodies, farmers, widows and others. The programme, which was initiated by the governor’s wife, Mrs. Olufunso Amosun, was aimed at creating opportunities for the less-privileged to participate in the economy and improve their earning. Mrs. Amosun, while distributing the small scale business items at Oke Sopen, the Ijebu North Local Government’s Secretariat, said the programme was aimed at maximising growth opportunities among the less-privileged and enable them to reach their full potentials. She said the programme was part of efforts of her Uplift Development Foundation Projects to complement the existing empowerment opportunities provided under the Senator Ibikunle Amosun-led administration. The governor’s wife, who also spoke at the Pri-

mary Healthcare Centre, Ojowo in Ijebu East Local Government, noted that the programme was borne out of a needs-assessment. She said community leaders and associations were consulted to ensure that the needs of their communities were met to enable them to be self-employed and self-sufficient. She assured the people that the government would continue to embark on more people-oriented

projects to boost their economic power by providing empowerment items and cash. The Onitasin of Itasin, Oba Felix Adegbesan, in his remarks, hailed Mrs. Amosun for complementing the efforts of the government. He encouraged her to sustain the empowerment programme and do more for the people of Ijebuland and other parts of the state. Adegbesan urged the

people to use the empowerment items for the purpose for which they were given to them in order to better their lots and that of their family. The Iyaloja of Obada Market, Ijebu-Igbo, Mrs. Suliat Adelege, praised the wife of the governor. She hailed her for embarking on the empowerment programme and fulfilling her promise of distributing materials to the less-privileged.

We ’ll gain from Mimiko’s defection, says Ondo APC

NDO State All Progressive Congress (APC) said yesterday that it would take advantage of Governor Olusegun Mimiko’s defection from the Labour Party (LP) to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). The party’s state Chairman, Isaac Kekemeke, said at the inauguration of the APC Elders’ Assembly and Reconciliation Committee that the governor’s decision was a divine move that would ensure victory for the party. Kekemeke described Mimiko as a liability instead of an asset to any political party, adding that the governor had exhausted his

From Damisi Ojo, Akure

political relevance, considering his alleged waning popularity. He said: “The recent decision of our political Maradona, Dr. Olusegun Mimiko, to ‘Ebolarise’ the PDP in Ondo State is a divine programme to strategically position our party for electoral success. “Therefore, we as a party cannot afford not to take maximum advantage of it. APC remains a party with high electoral potentials nationally and in our state.” “We are glad to tell the whole world that APC in Ondo State has the largest assemblage of accomplished, re-

spected, progress-minded, comfortable and resourceful elders. Our elders must be our knowledge bank from which we should be able to recharge and refill.” The Elders’ Assembly has 120 members selected from all the state’s 18 local government areas. They include Senator Ayo Lawrence, Pa William Akinrinlola Olokunboro, Senator Olorunnimbe Farukanmi and Prince Fioye Bajowa. Others are the former Secretary to the State Government (SSG) Pa Olutayo Adeuyan, Prof. Ebisemiju, Pa Akeju, Prof. Olu Aderounmu among others.

HE Nursing Education Department, University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan has graduated 172 nurses in general, midwives, preoperative and occupational health specialties. Deputy Director of Nursing Education, UCH, Mrs. Fehintola Ogunde, said this at the 2014 graduation ceremony of the college yesterday in Ibadan. She said the graduating nurses were presented for six professional examinations organised by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN). Mrs. Ogunde added that 100 per cent success rate was recorded in all the examination. She praised the efforts of all the heads of schools, the tutorial staff and the administrative staff of the schools for their hard work, dedication and steadfastness during the training. She said:”It is pertinent to remind you that this is the beginning of your professional journey. The UCH has performed its role of providing you with the necessary knowledge, skill and attitude, thereby laying a solid foundation for your professional growth.” She enjoined the nurses not to rest on their oars, but continue to improve themselves academically, especially along the nursing world.

Lagos holds sanitation tomorrow By Miriam Ekene-Okoro

AGOS State government has said its monthly environmental sanitation exercise will hold tomorrow between 7a.m and 10a.m. Commissioner for the Environment Mr. Tunji Bello stated that the sanitation would be dedicated towards massive advocacy campaign and demonstration of preventive measures to curb the spread of the Ebola Virus Disease. He said the government would continue to be in the forefront of the campaign for a healthier and sustainable environment. The commissioner emphasised the government’s Zero Tolerance for acts like defecating and urinating in the public, street trading, indiscriminate dumping of refuse and constructions of structures along drainage alignments. He urged Lagosians to troop out and participate actively in the exercise.

PUBLIC NOTICE OGUNREMI I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Ogunremi Olufunke Janet, now wish to be known and addressed as Olapade Olufunke Janet. All documents remain valid. General public take note. CONFIRMATION OF NAME

I Gbonkumor Esther and Gbon Esther refers to one and the same person. Now wish to be known and addressed as Gbonkumor Esther. All documents bearing the above names remain valid. The general public should please take note.

THE NATION FRIDAY, AUGUST 29, 2014

NEWS Ladoja’s mother buried in Ibadan

HE remains of Alhaja Alimot Ladoja, mother of the former Oyo State Governor Rashidi Ladoja, were interred in Ibadan yesterday with the politician affirming that he would miss her dearly. She was buried according to Islamic rites at the family residence, Yemetu, Ibadan, the state capital. The burial prayer was led by the Chief Imam of Ibadanland, Sheik Suara Haruna, who hailed the virtues of her simplicity, love, selflessness and commitment. The late Alhaja Ladoja died at about 9p.m last Wednesday at her son’s Bodija, Ibadan home. She was 94-year-old. Ladoja, who spoke with reporters after the burial, said her mother was his best confidant and the “last General” from whom he received orders, which were followed by him without asking questions. The Accord Party leader said: “Where do I start from? Do I start from the food? Less than six months ago, she was still my best cook. I prefer to eat her food than any other person’s food and she was always very happy to cook for me.

From Bisi Oladele, Ibadan

“Now, there is nobody that can tell me ‘You must do this!’ My father used to say that ‘when you have no father and no mother, you have nobody who can give you orders.’ All I have now are advisers. The last ‘General’, the one that could give me orders, is no more. “And she had always been right in the orders she gave me. Because when she said I must do something and I did that thing, the result was always good. It is very sad that she is gone. “She was a very simple woman. Her life revolved around the family, particularly I as the first child and the last child who happens to be a woman. We are her treasures. It was not that she did not like the others, but she particularly doted on us and we understood her as the last boss. “When she says this is right, you can be sure that thing will be right. Whenever I said I would do a particularly thing and she ordered me to do that thing, then I must do it. Now, I cannot go back home and say “Mama, come and cook for me.”

Omisore files 850-page petition to tribunal

SUN State Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) governorship candidate Senator Iyiola Omisore filed yesterday an 850-page petition before the Elections Petition Tribunal at the state High Court, Osogbo against the results of the August 9 poll. In the petition, he challenged the results of 17 local government areas in which the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Rauf Aregbesola, was declared the winner by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). Omisore, who was accompanied by the state PDP Chairman, Alhaji Ganiyu Ola-Oluwa and other party chieftains, told reporters that “I will reclaim this mandate through the tribunal.” No fewer than seven Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SANs) were engaged by Omisore to prosecute his case before the tribunal. The 17 council areas Omisore is seeking the

•APC hails suit From Adesoji Adeniyi, Osogbo

tribunal’s order to cancel their results include, Ifelodun, Olorunda, Osogbo, Ejigbo, Ede South, Ede North, Ilesa West, Ilesa East and Ila. The PDP candidate also called for fresh conduct of governorship election in the affected local government areas. Besides, he sought the order of the tribunal to declare him the authentic winner of the election. He stated: “The last governorship election was marred by careless rigging perpetrated by the APC through the Osun Youths Empowerment Scheme (OYES) cadets.” The Secretary to the tribunal, Mr. Muhammadu

Conference delegates praise Amosun on projects

Five die, nine injured in Ekiti road crash

IVE women traders died yesterday in an accident at Irasa village near Ekiti State University (EKSU) on AdoIworoko road. Nine others in critical conditions were taken to the state University Teaching Hospital, Ado-Ekiti, the state capital. Sources told reporters that some students, who

From Sulaiman Salawudeen, Ado-Ekiti

were returning from a night party, rammed into an oncoming vehicle conveying the women. Clothes, shoes and other personal items belonging to the students littered the scene of the accident. The students were in a

grey colour Mazda car with a registration number Lagos KJA 608 CD and the women were being conveyed in a commercial Nissan saloon car marked Osun AA 529 FTD. Sources said the students had attended a party organised by a final year student of the institution before the collision.

Adamu Aliyu, who received the petition on behalf of the tribunal chairman, assured that it would carry out its duties without fear or favour. The APC described the PDP’s decision to seek redress from the court as matured. Its spokesperson, Kunle Oyatomi, said: “This is a pleasant departure from what we know of the PDP’s disposition to settling scores through violence, intimidation and terror.” The APC reminded the PDP and Omisore that they needed facts and figures to prosecute their case, saying: “You don’t manufacture facts and figures, you support them instead with credible evidence.” “Since the PDP was also infamous for awful lies and

fabrication of false figures, it should be conscious that such fabrications cannot stand in the court of law. So, as the PDP goes to the tribunal, a new chapter is being written in Osun’s preference for the rule of law, rather than the rule of the jungle, which had characterised the PDP’s politics before and shortly after the August 9 election. “We in the APC have nothing to worry about because we know that we won the election fair and square. Even Professor Attahiru Jega, the INEC Chairman has attested to that in a public statement in which he said that the election was nearly rigged. “Our confidence is even further boosted by the defection of John Abolarinwa Abidoye, the Osun PDP’s legal adviser to the APC last Tuesday (a day before the PDP filed its case at the tribunal).”

•Amosun

GUN State’s delegates to the National Conference have praised Governor Ibikunle Amosun -led administration for giving a face-lift to the state within three years. The delegates, who hailed the governor’s urban renewal programme, spoke in Abeokuta during an inspection of the ongoing projects within the state capital, together with Amosun. The leader of the delegation, Senator Femi Okurounmu, noted that the

projects are of high standard and worthy. He said: “The new housing estates built for different classes of people and the road projects have been instrumental in opening up the state to opportunities. “I must commend your efforts. You have transformed the state within these three years. We saw the flyover bridges and super highways in Abeokuta, which are also being replicated in other parts of the state. They are of very high standard. The Ogun standard is something we should be very proud of.” On his part, Senator Kola Bajomo expressed delight that unborn children would appreciate the state’s government efforts, adding that the infrastructure put in place by the administration “speak to the

present and future.” “These projects are not stories, but physical things that we have all seen. Being impressed is an understatement. The schools, road infrastructure, housing estates for various categories of workers are well integrated. “Our unborn children will appreciate this administration. The government needs a lot of support from all and sundry,’’ Bajomo stated. In her remarks, Prof. Titi Filani described the model schools structure as very fantastic, particularly the good ventilation, numerous rooms as well as introduction of communication technology and technical education, which he said are enough hope for the educational system of the state.

Ajimobi, Aregbesola, Kalu console with ex-governor

OVERNORS Abiola Ajimobi (Oyo State), Rauf Aregbesola (Osun State) and former Abia State Governor Orji Kalu were part of those who consoled with the former Oyo State Governor Rashidi Ladoja yesterday over the death of his mother, Alhaja Alimot Ladoja. Ajimobi, in his condolence message, said the death of Ladoja’s mother was unfortunate. He said: “Even though our dear mama, Alhaja Halimotu Ladoja, died at the ripe age of 94, we are still saddened with her demise. “She was a not only a devout Muslim, but also a quintessential mother, who was caring, loving and an epitome of motherhood. “Besides, mama was also a good example in philanthropy. She was always ready

From Adesoji Adeniyi, Osogbo

and prepared to share whatever she had with the lessprivileged.” He prayed the Almighty Allah to grant her Aljanah Firdaus and the family the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss. Aregbesola, in a statement by his Director, Bureau of Communications and Strategy, Mr. Semiu Okanlawon, expressed gratitude to God for the late Alhaja Ladoja’s “enviable life style.” While praying for the repose of her soul, the governor extended his condolence to the Ladoja family, the government and the Oyo people. “Personally, I consider her as a mother-figure and source of inspiration, who remained a devout Muslim and committed to improv-

ing the lives of others up to the time she breathed her last. We will miss her a lot,” Aregbesola said. The governor noted that her death was not only a loss to her immediate family, but also to the people of Ibadan land and the state. Kalu urged Ladoja not to mourn, but rejoice that not only did his mother live long enough, she also lived a fulfilled life. Kalu, in the message by his Special Adviser, Oyekunle Oyewumi, said what Ladoja needed now was to pray to God for strength to put the loss behind him and focus on contributing his quota to the nation’s development, especially with the 2015 general election in sight. He prayed for the repose of the soul of Alhaja Ladoja and the fortitude for her family to bear the loss.

Oyo clears four of Ebola virus

HE Oyo State government has cleared four patients suspected of contracting the Ebola Virus Disease (EVD). Commissioner for Health and the state Epidemiologist, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin and Dr. Gbolahan Abass confirmed this to The Nation yes-

terday. They said contrary to rumours milling around that some patients in state and private hospitals have contracted the disease, the four patients, who showed symptoms of the EVD, have tested negative to the virus. They added that the four

patients were treated in private and government hospitals in Iseyin, Ibadan, IgboOra and Ogbomoso. On suspecting the patients, the commissioner said their blood samples were taken and sent to the laboratory for confirmation. He said they all tested negative to the virus.

THE NATION FRIDAY AUGUST 29, 2014

NEWS Four-storey church collapses FOUR-storey buildin Umuahia ing belonging to Be-

hold He Cometh Pentecostal Church, located at Umuagu in Umuahia, the Abia State capital, has collapsed. This incident occurred after an early morning downpour. Nobody died, as there were no workers or worshipers on the scene when the building collapsed.. An eyewitness, who preferred anonymity, said the building, which was nearing completion, collapsed about 10am after a heavy rain, which lasted for hours. An elder in the church,

From Ugochukwu Ugoji-eke, Umuahia

Awom Samuel, told The Nation that cracks were noticed on the wall of the building a few days before the incident occurred and the contractor was informed, but he refused to act. He wondered why the building, which cost the church a fortune, could collapse. According to him, the building had structural defects A source at the Umuahia Capital Development Authority said they had begun investigations into the incident.

Pastor emerges Enugu deputy governor •Some editors at the Nigeria Guild of Editors conference in Katsina...yesterday. INSET: Mr Dimgba Igwe, Vice Chairman, The Sun Newspapers, addressing the conference.

MASSOB crisis: Aggrieved commanders meet Achuzia

GGRIEVED commanders of the Movement for the Actualisation of the Sovereign State of Biafra (MASSOB), yesterday visited Biafra war veteran, Col. Joe Achuzia, in Asaba, the Delta State capital, over the leadership crisis rocking the group. It has resulted in the death of six people. Others were injured. The delegation, led by Ndubuisi Igwekani, aka ‘Agu Biafra’, agreed to drop the sovereign state of Biafra idea and adopt the state of Biafra ideology, on the advice of the warlord. Speaking with The Nation, Igwekani said the visit was to solicit the assistance of the Ohanaeze chieftain on how to avert the impending bloodbath in Igbo land over the alleged betrayal of the Biafra struggle by Chief Ralph Uwazuruike. He said: “After the death of Dim Chukwuemeka

•Cries out over impending bloodbath

From Okodili Ndidi, Owerri

Odumegwu Ojukwu, Achuzia is the next Biafra leader. So we MASSOB leaders and commanders visited him to complain about the fraudulent activities of Uwazuruike and ask him and other Igbo leaders to prevail on him to end the spilling of the blood of innocent Igbo youths.” Achuzia, who confirmed the visit in a telephone chat with our reporter, said the leadership of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the apex Igbo social-cultural organisation, was opposed to the adoption of the sovereign state of Biafra idea. He said: “When I was the secretary of Ohanaeze, we told Uwazuruike that he should drop the sovereign state idea because you cannot be talking of a sovereign state within another state. But now that the members have agreed to drop the idea,

we know how to intervene.” MASSOB has cried out over a meeting scheduled by the embattled leader of the group for tomorrow in Owerri. It warned that it could result in violence. In a statement by the Director of Information, Comrade Uchenna Madu, the body said: “We see this as another evil plan to sacrifice the blood of members due to the face-off between Uwazuruike and the police, which resulted in the death of members from Onitsha, who came to dislodge members at Okwe, on the order of Uwazurike. “The death of our members has exposed the selfishness and insensitivity of Chief Uwazuruike to the plight of members. He does not care about our welfare. He has always enriched himself through the shedding of

members’ blood. He uses us to popularise himself.” The statement alleged: “MASSOB lost 18 members in Onitsha during the sit-athome exercise on June 8 last year, which was a flop. During MASSOB’s 11 months camping at Klm 7, OnitshaOwerri Road, near Old Spare Parts Market (Ngbuka Obosi), on the order of Uwazuruike, the group lost about eight members. These Igbo youths, who died for Uwazurike, have not been given proper burial. Their families have not been consoled and compensated, their names are no longer in the MASSOB book. “Members should be aware that the security situation in Imo State is not healthy for MASSOB because of the death of our members at Okwe. The meeting scheduled for tomorrow is to create tension, which may result in violence.”

Police prevent APC mega rally

ESPITE last minute’s ban by the police, the Niger East mega rally of the All Progressives Congress (APC) pulled a mammoth crowd. Minna, the state capital, was brought to a standstill, as people defied the ban to watch the rally taken to major roads in the city. The APC rally, billed for the Minna Polo Ground, to round off David Umaru’s campaign for tomorrow’s by-election, could not hold, as the venue was sealed off by security agents, following an order from above, while the security agents allowed the rally of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to hold at the Trade Fair complex. It was learnt that a letter banning APC from using the Polo Ground was conveyed to the party by the police on Wednesday night. According to a source in the APC, police said they stopped the opposition party’s mega rally because the ruling party planned to hold

•Minna stands still for party From Jide Orintunsin, Minna

a similar rally in the state capital, the same day and at the same time. The development forced APC supporters to hit major roads in the state capital. Residents trooped out to hail the party’s standardbearer, Umaru. They became uncontrollable when the National Chairman, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, led other national and state officers to the palace of the Emir of Minna, Dr. Faruk Bahago. They later visited Gen. Ibrahim Babangida. Reacting to the development, APC state Publicity Secretary, Mr. Jonathan Vatsa, said the party applied to use the venue on August 24, “but we were denied because PDP chose the same day to hold its rally, but at a different venue.” He went on: “We sought approval from the police to

hold our rally. Each time we apply, they will tell us PDP is having their rally the same time, day and venue. This is exactly what is happening today. They told us they could not grant us the approval and you know the electoral law, which states that parties should stop campaign 24 hours to the election. Today is the only day we have and they still deny us. “Anybody preventing us from holding our rally is infringing on our right and tampering with our citizenship. They are not being fair to us. They’ve been afraid of us. Since our candidate emerged, PDP has been having sleepless nights.” Police spokesman Ibrahim Gambari denied that the state command prevented APC from using the venue. He claimed that they were not responsible for the locking up of the gate to the rally ground. “We gave approval and cover to the two parties. You

cannot see our men at the rally ground. We are not the one that locked it up,” Gambari said. But a source at the command headquarters, who spoke in confidence, said the order to stop APC rally came from above. “The unfortunate thing is that the police will be blamed for this ugly development. The fact is that we acted on the order from above. We got the order on Wednesday evening and conveyed it to the party,” the source said. APC stalwarts, who came to support Umaru, included Odigie-Oyegun; the National Deputy Chairman, Northcentral, Senator Lawal Shuaibu; the National Secretary, Alhaji Mai Mala; the National Treasurer, Bala Mohammed; Kano State Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso; former Kwara State Governor Bukola Saraki; the state party Chairman, Mohammed Imam Jibrin; and the state chairmen from Kwara, Kano and Plateau states.

CLERGYMAN has emerged as the Enugu State Deputy Gov-

ernor. He is Rev. Ifeanyi Cyril Nwoye, a pastor of the Ascension Church. Although not yet cleared, his name was forwarded to the House of Assembly, which screened him yesterday. It is likely that he will be sworn in on Monday after the House may have cleared him. Nwoye hails from the same village with the impeached Sunday Onyebuchi, that is Ogbu Nara in Nkanu West Local Government. He was the Commissioner

From Chris Oji, Enugu

for Public Utilities in the former Governor Chimaroke Nnamani administration. He also served as the Caretaker Committee Chairman of Nkanu West Local Government. Sources said Nwoye is a relation of Onyebuchi. Onyebuchi was impeached by the Assembly on Tuesday, following the adoption of the report of the investigative panel set up by the Chief Judge. The panel indicted him. Onyebuchi has headed for the court He faulted the verdict of the panel.

Police parade suspected child traffickers, others

HE police in Abia State have arrested and paraded five people suspected to be involved in child trafficking. They also paraded two suspected robbers and six suspected drug traffickers and peddlers. Speaking in Umuahia, Police Commissioner Adamu Ibrahim said Philip Erondu of Umuobasi Osisioma Local Government reported that his daughter, Uchechi Erondu, absconded from home with an advanced pregnancy. Ibrahim quoted Erondu as saying that she later returned without the pregnancy or any child, which made him to believe that she might have sold the child after delivery. The information, according to the police boss, made his men to move into action. He said his men discovered that the baby was delivered in a maternity home belonging to Joy Inegbu, where arrangements were made to sell it, but unfortunately the baby died. “We are after those involved in the incident.” The Abia CP said his men from Umuopara division, while on a patrol around Abia tower, on the Aba/Port Harcourt Expressway, intercepted Chinenye Ihuoma Nka of Ikwuano Local Government with a day old and six months old babies. He said on interrogation, Nka claimed the babies belonged to her and Patience Mgbechi sitting beside her in a bus. She said they were coming from Port Harcourt and going to Mbaise in Imo State to hand over the baby boy to Nkechi Obilor at Ahiazu Mbaise, who needed him. Ibrahim said in the past, Umuahia and its environs wit-

From Ugochukwu Ugoji-eke, Umuahia

nessed an upsurge in crimes, which included armed robbery, kidnapping, murder/ assassination, child trafficking, burglary and others. He said the rise in crimes became a challenge to his men, which made them to increase their intelligence gathering and surveillance, stressing that they found out that criminals usually operated under the influence of drugs. The CP said early this month, he received an intelligence report that House number 23, Arochukwu Street, Umuahia was identified as a hideout for criminals, adding that he was informed that criminals took off for operations from the house after taking hard drugs. He said he detailed his men to watch the house and in the process, “we arrested Ngozi Nweke, a 56-year-old woman; Everester Nneamaka, female, 19; Nweke Ndidiamaka Amarachi, female, 21; Ifeoma Ijimogu, female, 34; Michael Ogbonna, male, 25; and Onyekachi Nwokoma, male 26 years. The police boss said during investigation his men recovered 690 wraps of substances suspected to be cocaine, 201 wraps of weeds suspected to be Indian hemp, unwrapped large quantity of weeds suspected to be Indian hemp, one Nokia X2 mobile phone and N3, 785. The command also arrested two men suspected to be armed robbers after a robbery on the Port Harcourt Expressway, near Ihie in Ugwunagbo Council. Those arrested are, Ochieze Friday, 25, and Munachi Lemechi, 19.

THE NATION FRIDAY, AUGUST 29, 2014

NEWS

•Delta State Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan (seventh right); Head of Service Paul Evuarherhe (sixth right); retired Head of Service Okey Ofili (eigtht right) and retired Permanent PHOTO:NAN Secretaries...yesterday

INEC undecided on ‘vacant’ HE Independent Naseats in Edo tional Electoral Com-

mission (INEC) is yet to decide on the “vacant” seats at the Edo State House of Assembly, Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) Baritor Kpagih has said. On August 30, the Assembly Speaker, Uyi Igbe, declared the seat of Mr. Abdulrazaq Momoh (Estako West 1) vacant for defecting from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) “without following due process”. Igbe urged INEC to conduct a by-election within 90 days to fill the seat. The seat of Mr. Victor Edoror (Esan Central) was also declared vacant by nine PDP lawmakers. Speaking with The Nation yesterday, the REC said although the commission received two letters informing

From Osagie Otabor, Benin

it of the vacant seats, it could not take decision on a byelection at the state level. Kpagih said: “We have received two letters, but what is important to us is the distribution of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and the registration of those that are yet to register. “Regarding the by-election, the House of Assembly has notified us. As far as we are concerned, we do not take decision on such matter here at the state level. We have communicated to the commission and once a decision is taken, we will act on it.” He said INEC was sensitising residents on the importance of collecting their PVCs.

Fuel scarcity looms in Delta, others as NUPENG goes on strike

UEUES may return to filling stations in Delta, Edo, Ekiti, Kogi and Ondo states, it was learnt yesterday. Members of the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG), Warri Zone, began an indefinite strike yesterday. In June, NUPENG gave Chevron Nigeria Limited (CNL) seven days to reabsorb its sacked members. It threatened to go on an indefinite strike if the firm failed to comply. Following the firm’s failure to reabsorb the workers, the union began a strike yesterday. In a statement by its Senior Assistant General Secretary, Warri, Mr Otite Onohwowho, the union said: “As a result of the refusal of Chevron Nige-

From Bolaji Ogundele, Warri

ria Limited’s management to honour the communiqué of July 10, 2014, issued at the instance of the Federal Ministry of Labour and Productivity, Abuja, to resolve the industrial dispute between the union and the management, the strike that was earlier suspended is hereby resumed.” The union urged branch executives to ensure that the decision is strictly followed. The Warri Zonal Council covers Delta, Edo, Ekiti, Kogi and Ondo states. The strike would paralyse activities at the Warri Refineries, filling stations, loading depots and oil facilities in the affected states.

CJN inaugurates Abba as FCT Acting Grand Khadi From Eric Ikhilae, Abuja

HE Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Aloma Mukhtar yesterday swore in Khadi Ibrahim Abba as the acting Grand Khadi of the Sharia Court of Appeal of the Federal Capital Territory Judiciary. Khadi Abba took over from Grand Khadi Muhammadu Shehu Lamido, who retired on June 27, 2014 after attaining mandatory retirement age of 65 years. Media aide to the CJN, Ahuraka Yusuf Isah quoted Justice Mukhtar, in a statement yesterday, as urging the acting Grand Khadi to be mindful of the oath of office and oath of allegiance to the Constitution. “Mind you, you are also holding a Qur’an while taking the oaths. I urge you to discharge your duties for fear of Allah. Remember I said for “fear of Allah” three times. Although some people may say they fear Allah in the public but when alone, it is a different thing altogether” The CJN said an elaborate swearing in ceremony will be held Abba is confirmed as Grand Khadi of the Sharia Court of Appeal of the FCT, Abuja in line with Section 261 (1) of the Constitution.

Rainstorm displaces 2,500 in Edo

BOUT 2,500 persons, including women and children, have been displaced by a rainstorm in Etsako-Central Local Government Area of Edo State. The rainstorm, which fell on Monday, injured two people, destroyed many homes and killed hundreds of livestock. Deputy Governor Pius Odubu, who visited the victims, said the government would give them relief ma-

From Osemwengie Ogbemudia, Benin

terials to cushion the effect of the disaster. Odubu was accompanied by Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs Lucky James and other top government officials. He expressed shock at the extent of the damage and urged the Federal Government to assist the victims. The victims thanked the

‘Momoh said the storm destroyed 116 houses and some electricity poles ’. government for its concern. Odubu also visited the office of the Local Government Chairman, Emmanuel Momoh, who said the coun-

cil had started distributing relief materials to the victims. Momoh said the storm destroyed 116 houses and some electricity poles. The traditional ruler of Aviawu, Chief Jackson Etokhana, who received his staff of office last week, said the disaster was unprecedented in the community’s history. Worse hit are Ivinone, Ulumoghie, Iviocha and Iviavia.

NANS endorses Jonathan for second term

HE National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) endorsed yesterday President Goodluck Jonathan to run for a second term in office. President of NANS Yinka Gbadebo, who led the National Executive members of the association on a visit to First Lady Dame Patience Jonathan, expressed their support at the Presidential Villa in Abuja. The delegation, which passed a vote of confidence in Jonathan, also presented a

certificate of credence to Dame Jonathan for her pursuit of peace and empowerment of women and the youth. “As pragmatic and visionary Nigerians, we can see through the veil of distraction and boldly applaud the Goodluck administration for infrastructural and social transformation. “We have unflinchingly determined to put all political detractors and evil geniuses to shame in 2015 by giving Mr President the sin-

gular and total support of all Nigerian students. “As a united association, all students have been mandated to cast their votes for President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan to emerge victorious and continue the good works of transformation,’’ he said. Gbadebo noted that in order to actualise this, NANS had floated the Nigerian Students Transformation Vanguard to champion this cause. The NANS president commended Jonathan for his sup-

port to Nigerian students and youths by appointing six past NANS leaders in his administration. According to him, the past leaders included the Ministers of Information and Education, Mr Labaran Maku and Alhaji Malam Ibrahim Shekarau. Others are the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Niger Delta Affairs, Mr Kingsley Kuku, and Senior Special Assistant to the President on Students and Youth matters, Mr Jude Imagwe.

‘Ikimi was never a progressive’

LL Progressives Congress (APC) National Vice-Chairman (Southsouth) Prince Hilliard Eta has said Chief Tom Ikimi’s resignation from the party is “overdue”. Speaking with reporters yesterday in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital, Eta said Ikimi was never a progressive politician. Recalling Ikimi’s antecedent, he said: “By all estimation, Ikimi was never a progressive, so the way of progressivism cannot suit his political temperament. He moved from the All Nigeria’s Peoples Party (ANPP) to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and moved from the PDP to the defunct Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) and then APC. One is not sure

From Kazeem Ibrahym, Uyo

of his next port of call.” Eta said it was wrong for Ikimi to condemn the process that led to the election of the APC National Chairman, John Odigie-Oyegun, because he was not at the Eagle Square venue of the convention. He said although no party would celebrate the loss of a member, Ikimi was a burden to the APC and his resignation did not create any vacuum. Eta said: “We have lost Chief Tom Ikimi and wish him the best at his next port of call. But we have also gained many constituencies in Nigeria. The PDP’s legal adviser in Osun State has defected to the APC.” He urged APC members to

remain focused on the 2015 general elections. Eta advised politicians not to see participation in politics as “a vehicle only for contesting elections”, adding: “Had Ikimi accepted the verdict of the people, I am sure his staying

in the progressive family would have helped him laundered his past mistakes, but his non-acceptance of the people’s verdict at the convention has exposed him as a man who is just after power. I urge other leaders to learn from his mistakes.”

Ultimatum for vehicle owners

HE Lagos state police command has warned owners of accident and abandoned vehicles parked at Bode Thomas, Aguda, Orile, Surulre, Bariga and Olosan Mushin divisions to come and remove them or lose them to members of the public through auction, two weeks after this publication. The vehicles are: Volkswagon bus EL338KJA, Nissan car NP576KJA, Pegout406 BX792RBC, Volkswagon bus SMK587XB, Vlokswagon bus XA317ETU Volkswagon bus KSF789XJ, Volkswagon LT bus XQ417AG, Volkswagon bus XU469LSR, Volkwagon LT bus 975XC, Nissan sunny wagon TF721KJA, Nissan sunny car CZ726PHC, BMW car AAA467AA, Toyota Camry car BC733MUS, Keke Maruwa QZ523KSF, Reunlt Laguna car MW718AAA, Honda car BDG481BV, Nissan Bulebird car AY142KSF,and Toyota car CP526LND.

ALGON/NULGE battle fake revenue collectors

AKE revenue collectors who sell vehicle stickers to unsuspecting members of the public in all the 774 local councils in the country are in for hard times. The Association of Local Government of Nigeria (ALGON) and the National Union of Local Government Employees

(NULGE) have declared a total war on them. The two organisations, which said the only group they authorised to collect revenue on their behalf was the Joint Mobile Advertisement of Nigeria (JMOAN), insisted through their legal consultants, Messrs Law Ratio, that their letter to the

Trade Union Congress (TUC) to confirm the membership of a group, suspected of selling the alleged fake tickets, called the National Union of Stickers/Emblems Practitioners (Workers) of Nigeria, which claimed it was an affiliate of TUC, yielded no positive result. They, therefore, appealed

to motorists to report any harassment over the purchase of tickets/stickers by the union to any ALGON, NULGE or JMOAN office for necessary action, saying the Investigation Unit of the Office of the Inspector-General of Police had already begun the process of arresting those perpetrating such illegal act.

THE NATION FRIDAY AUGUST 29, 2014

NEWS Police to politicians: no campaign till INEC lifts ban •Two suspected robbers paraded

HE police have instructed politicians in Taraba State to desist from holding rallies until the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) lifts the ban on political activities. Police spokesman Joseph Kwaji, who briefed reporters at the command headquarters in Jalingo, warned politicians and their supporters to adhere to the directive or be punished. Kwaji, an Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP), said: “On no account should parties engage in political campaigns until the ban is lifted by INEC. “The ban on political activities is still in force. Violators will be apprehended to face the wrath of the law. “All parties must adhere to this order.” The police have paraded two suspected robbers. One of the suspects gave his name as Jerry Peter. Police said he terrorised residents. “He (Jerry Peter) escaped police arrest in Nasarawa State, but was arrested in Tara-

From Fanen Ihyongo, Jalingo

ba by the Special Anti Respond Squad (SARS), following a tip- off.” The police said the suspect is a member of a five-man robbery gang, which specialises in robbery, car theft and burglary. Peter confessed that he became a robber in 2011 and he had been convicted several times. He said he used a charm, which served as a bullet proof, adding that it also helped him to detect danger ahead and escape police arrest. The second suspect, Ibrahim Abubakar, was nabbed for impersonation. He was arrested by soldiers and handed over to the State Security Service (SSS), who brought him to the police. Kwaji said Abubakar impersonated the Second- inCommand to the Joint Task Force (JTF) Commander in Yola, Adamawa State, during which he extorted money from applicants, promising to help them get a job in the military.

Niger East: INEC ‘ll use customised ballot

HE Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) will use customised ballot papers for tomorrow’s Niger East by-election, to prevent rigging. The National Commissioner, Dr. Chris Iyimogu, told reporters after a stakeholders’ meeting organised by the commission in Minna that each of the nine local governments in the senatorial district would

From Jide Orintunsin, Minna

have different ballot papers, for the easy detection of rigging. The national commissioner, who oversees the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Kwara, Kaduna and Niger states, said non- sensitive electoral materials had arrived in the state. Sensitive materials are expected today. He said the commission

would conduct the election as scheduled, adding that all materials left the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Minna branch yesterday for the headquarters of the nine councils to ensure an early distribution of the materials. His words: “The party agents took the sensitive materials from CBN Minna yesterday to the local government headquarters. “This is to prevent late ar-

rival of electoral materials at polling units. We want the election to start and end as scheduled.” On the call by the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the removal of the Resident Electoral Commissioner, Dr. Emmanuel Onucheyo, for alleged romance with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)led government, Iyimogu said he was not aware of the allegation.

60 dead in Nasarawa ethnic clashes

IXTY persons have died in a clash between Fulani herdsmen and farmers from the Eggon ethnic group, Nasarawa State police said yesterday. The clashes broke out on Wednesday, a week after

some Eggon villagers accused the Fulani of stealing their cattle, police spokesman Umaru Ismaila said on the telephone. “The report we have is that 60 people died in the clashes in Tudun-Ababu village,” he said, adding:

“Some victims were burnt beyond recognition.” Hundreds have been killed in the last year in clashes between semi-nomadic and cattle-herding Fulani communities. Seventy-two people died in a battle between suspect-

ed Fulani cattle rustlers and youths from the rival Hausa group in the Northwest in April. Gunmen, suspected to be Fulani, killed more than 100 people in an attack on three Christian villages in March.

NAFDAC shuts seven shops •Agency seizes N200m contraband

HE National Agency for Food, Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) in Kano State has shut seven shops for illegal repackaging of palm oil, spaghetti, salt and vegetable oil classified as contraband goods. The illegal goods are valued at N200million. The operation was carried out at Singer, Galadima Palm Oil and Yankura markets. The Assistant Director of NAFDAC, Alhaji Shaba Mohammed, who led the operation amid heavy security, said the owners of the closed shops sold contraband goods. He added: “They engage in illegal importation of vegetable oil. The importation of the product was banned to give local manufacturers the opportunity to sell their products and create jobs for the masses.”

From Kolade Adyemi, Kano

Mohammed said most of the imported vegetable oil, spaghetti and salt lack fortified Vitamin A, which is essential to consumers’ health. He said government would not allow dubious businessmen to endanger the health of the citizens. The chairman of Singer Market, Abdulaziz Al–Musa, said they cooperated with NAFDAC to ensure good hygienic condition of food items. He added: “We need to cooperate with NAFDAC officials because they are doing a good job.” Al-Musa urged government to provide a conducive environment for local industries to enable them compete with their foreign counterparts. He said people imported goods because of the high cost of locally-manufactured products.

Deputy Senate Whip gets second term endorsement

EOPLES Democratic Party (PDP) leaders and supporters of the Deputy Senate Whip, Hosea Ayoola Agboola, from 10 local governments of the 13 councils in Oyo North yesterday unanimously endorsed the lawmaker for a second term, ahead of the October primaries. They said he was endorsed because he had attracted what they tagged “impressive long list of infrastructural develop-

From Tayo Johnson, Ibadan

ments to the neglected OkeOgun area of Oyo State.” At a PDP zonal meeting at Saki Parapo Hall in Saki West Local Government, presided over by Alhaji Yakubu Oladoja, which was attended by one of Agboola’s predecessors, Senator Robert Koleoso, Oke-Ogun PDP leader, Alhaji Tijani Mossa, Chief Sunday Alabi and others, the elders supported Agboola’s second term bid.

Church holds vigil

HRIST Apostolic Church (CAC), Victoryland, 7, Ajiboye Street, Pleasure, Agege, Lagos, will today hold a programme tagged: “Seven hours with seven prophets”. The vigil, with the theme: “The night is over”, will start at 10pm. Pastors ministering are: R. Olanipekun (guest artiste); Oyeleye; Akinwunmi Akintunde; Akorewolu; Gbade Ajibade; James O. Adeyanju and the chairman of the district, Pastor C.S. Fasuyi.

•From left: Wife of Ogun State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mrs. Aisha Olaniyonu; wife of Assembly Speaker, Mrs. Oluwaseun Adekumbi; and wife of governor, Mrs. Olufunso Amosun, presenting 5kg Uplift rice and other items to a crosssection of Baales during Mrs. Amosun’s Community Empowerment Programme at the local government secretariat, Oke Sopen in Ijebu North Local Government.

Kano police arrest suspected killer of Yoruba leader

ANO State Police Command has paraded Abubakar Abdulrahman (26), who allegedly murdered a Kano-based businessman, Alhaji Ganiyu Akanbi Bello, in his home on Race Course Road in Nasarawa Local Government. The incident reportedly occurred on June 5. The deceased was the chairman and chief executive officer of Centre of Excellence Hotel, Criss-Cross Hotels and Criss-Cross Oil Enterprises. Abubakar, popularly called Daddy, confessed to reporters at the Bompai Police Headquarters that he stabbed the businessman several times before he died.

From Kolade Adeyemi, Kano

He said he killed the grand patron of Yoruba community because “when I went to steal in his home, he recognised me.” “He was my boss and he never offended me. When I entered his house, I never expected to meet him. “I killed him because I needed money. He did not owe me. I knew I would find money in his house. I sneaked in through the gate about 11pm. I hid in the compound until morning when I entered his room. He was my employer for four years and he did not owe me.” Ilorin-born Abubakar,

who claimed to have dropped out of Kano State Polytechnic, said he regretted his action. “My mission in the house was to steal money. He recognised me and confronted me, asking why I came to his house. It was then I killed him and left the compound.” Police Commissioner Mr. Adenrele Shinaba said the suspect was arrested at his home in Badawa Quarters. “He will be arraigned as soon as investigation is completed.” Shinaba said three persons, Abubakar Umar, Aliyu Adamu and Mohammed Inuwa, had been arrested for

Kogi leaders seek Jonathan’s intervention

OGI East leaders yesterday urged President Goodluck Jonathan and the National Assembly to ensure the creation of Okura State. They accused the National Conference of injustice for not recommending the crea-

From Sanni Onogu and Halima Farouk, Abuja

tion of the state out of Kogi State. The Igala/Bassa leaders spoke to reporters after a meeting in Abuja under the aegis of Okura State Move-

ment and Ukomu Igala Organisation. The Secretary of the movement, Dr. Yakubu Ugwolawo, who read a communiqué, however, thanked the President for convening the National Conference.

impersonating police officers. He said the impersonators arrested an unsuspecting person on Ibrahim Taiwo Road and accused him of being a terrorist, threatening to take him to their office if he refused to bribe them. “They collected N1.3 million from him. They used the same trick on another victim and collected N500,000. Acting on a tip-off, we arrested the suspects and the victims identified them. They have confessed to the police. They said three of their accomplices are at large.” The commissioner of police said Mr. Nasiru Tijani, using a fake company name, Annatija Enterprises Ltd, duped Alhaji Yakubu Abubakar of six vehicles, valued at N2.7million. “Investigations have shown that Tijani goes about forging land documents and duping people. He will be arraigned as soon as investigation is completed.” Among those paraded by Shinaba were three car snatchers, who abandoned a Peugeot 406 car, registered SNK 567 AA.

THE NATION FRIDAY, AUGUST 29, 2014

CITYBEATS

CITYBEATS LINE: 08023247888

Police foil suspect’s escape from custody

UCK ran out for a suspected thief, Friday Onochie, who attempted to escape from custody yesterday. His escape was foiled by policemen, prison officials and passersby. It all happened around 2.30 pm at the Ikeja High Court premises - shortly after the suspect was arraigned before Magistrate Margret Dan-Oni on a one-count charge of stealing clothing materials valued at millions of naira. He was granted bail and the matter adjourned till September 29. It was gathered that the magistrate ordered that the suspect be remanded in prison custody until he perfects his bail conditions. Eyewitnesses said as the police prosecutor was formalising the suspect’s transfer to prison officials at the transit cell, he ran out of the court premises. As he headed for Oba Akinjobi Way in GRA Ikeja, the police, prison officials and some passersby ran after him. A policeman attached to the cell was said to have fired a shot, which attracted policemen at the entrance of the Police College. They swiftly joined efforts to catch the suspect. On being caught and handcuffed, he was taken back to the transit cell, shouting: “I

Ebola: Community embraces campaign

ESIDENTS of Ojodu in Lagos have pledged to be hygienic to prevent the dreaded Ebola Virus Disease (EVD). They flocked thronged the Ojodu community in Ojodu Local Council Development Area, Public Health Centre to participate in a campaign organised by the World

By Basirat Braimah

Health Committee (WHC) in the area. The health educator, Mrs Bola Faleke, explained and demonstrated to them, ways of preventing Ebola, stressing the importance of hand washing with sanitisers and avoidance of victims. The committee’s chairman, Mr Adebowale

Adaranijo, said the campaign was aimed at sensitising the grassroots about the disease and ways of preventing its spread. The Chief Matron, Ojodu Public Health Centre (PHC), Mrs Toyin Bowale, advised residents to promptly take any one suspected to have the disease to hospital.

•From left: Mrs Faleke, Mr Adaranijo and Mrs Bowale … at the event.

‘Rescue us from land grabbers’

•The suspect ... yesterday By Adebisi Onanuga

have not done anything. I am a cloth seller. I have not eaten for three days,”

He was forced into a waiting Black Maria van marked PS 273A O/1 in which he was driven back into the transit cell.

LACARD-carrying protesters stormed the Lagos State House of Assembly yesterday alleging harassment by land grabbers in Igbogbo-Baiyeku Local Council Development Area (LCDA) of Lagos State. They urged the governor to come to their rescue and intervene in getting the police to release those arrested. Some women claimed that their husbands were arrested. The group’s spokesman, Dayo Adetunji accused a resident of using the police to terrorise them. Adetunji said: “We have been living in the community for more than 10 years. We bought the land from Baiyeku indigenes. Suddenly, Igbogbo indigenes came and we paid them too. Later, another group came and we paid. Now, not up to two years, another group from the same family in Igbogbo has been bringing thugs to lay claim to the ownership of our land.” He said: “We complained to the police, but rather than address our plight, three days ago, around 4 am, some

By Oziegbe Okoeki

masked policemen came to the area again to arrest four landlords.” A woman whose husband was arrested, Nimotallah Sulaimon, said some policemen stormed their house early on August 26 and took her husband away while praying. Another woman, Mrs. Folashade Oresanya, said her husband was arrested while he was starting his car, adding that she later discovered that three

other landlords were also whisked away by the police. Chairman, Committee on Information and Strategy, Segun Olulade, promised that the House would look into their petition. “On behalf of Mr Speaker, other principal officials and my colleagues, I want to say that you have displayed the spirit of a good citizen by not taking laws into your hands and conducting yourselves peacefully despite the injustice,” he added.

NSE inducts members

HE Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), Lagos State, has honoured its “outstanding” members. At a ceremony in Lagos, 39 members comprising 24 corporate and 15 graduate inductees were inducted. The chairman, Mrs Yetunde Holloway, urged the inductees to uphold ethics of the profession. “Those who merited the honour have lived up to the expectation of the society,” she said.

While commissioning the digital library donated to the society by a company, Kenol Nigeria Limited, Mrs Holloway said the event is a milestone, noting that it would add value to the practice of engineering in the state and Nigeria. “This is an investment in human capital development; it will put our members on the information superhighway. I want you to take advantage of it while upholding the highest standard,” she said.

•From left: Rotn Ann Bukola Olomofe; immediate past president, Rotary Club of Ajara, Lagos State, Otunba Yomi Olomofe; new President Theophilus Balogun and Olubunmi Balogun at the installation of Balogun as the 12th president of the club.

THE NATION FRIDAY, AUGUST 29, 2014

PEOPLE THE NATION

A FIVE-PAGE SECTION ON SOCIETY

The 5th Inspiring Women Conference has been held at the Civic Centre on Victoria Island, Lagos, report NNEKA NWANERI and OMOLARA OGUNWALE.

•Mrs Alakija (third right) with (from left) Toyosi Akerele of Rise Networks; Ms Oputu; Kemi Ajumobi; Mrs Ozobia and former Beauty Queen Nike Oshinowo

PHOTOS: NNEKA NWANERI

Women of substance

HEY came from all over the world. Career women and entrepreneurs gathered at the Civic Centre on Victoria Island, Lagos, last Thursday. They came to learn from one another the distinguishing traits that made them to excel in their chosen fields. The early morning rain could not stop them. The room was filled with notable women, looking trendy and classy with alluring hair dos. Some of the women include: the first woman President of the Commonwealth Lawyers Association, Mrs Boma Ozobia; former Chief Executive Officer/Managing Director of the Bank of Industries Ms Evelyn Oputu; Chief Executive Officer of Famfa Oil, Mrs Folorunsho Alakija and wife of Ogun State Governor, Mrs Olufunsho Amosun. Mrs Amosun was represented by the wife of the Senior Special Adviser to the Governor on Multilateral Agencies, Mrs Olufemi Shopade, who delivered a speech from the governor’s wife. As Mrs Shopade, Mrs Alakija, Mrs Ozobia and Ms Oputu entered the arena, they were led to the high table and the event kicked off. They shared their experiences with others to motivate them and demystify the

impression that some professions are no go areas for women. The conference was the fifth in the series of the yearly Inspring Women Conference, a vision initiated by Kemi Ajumobi and organised by Businessday. Businessday Publisher Frank Aigbogun, in a welcome address, said the event was aimed at improving the womenfolk. "Society can become better with more women succeeding. Homes can be more peaceful because stronger families bring successful nations. So with dedication and hard work, yes a woman can." Aigbogun said. He urged women to believe in their abilities, use their vocations to lift others and emulate the good virtues of those who have made it to the top. "Stay motivated and reach for the sky.The future is yours, so go for it," said Mrs Boma Ozobia. She nearly caused a stir at the beginning of her speech but that session later became interactive. She was decked in an ash colour suit and skirt, it almost seemed like she was there for a court session as she mounted the podium. She spoke with confidence, convincing her listeners with ease. She is a partner at Sterling Partnership, Nigeria and she is among the few allowed to prac-

• From left: CEO Classy Touch Events Mrs Olawumi Heavens; Imo State PDP governorship aspirant Ifeyinwa Okafor and CEO Joston properties Mrs Kewunde Madejemu

tise Law in Nigeria, England and Whales. She described women as role models who should show the world that success is synonymous with what they do and how they do it. Ms Oputu, in her usual traditional attire, looked more like a South African. She told the gathering that women should 'play like a man, win like a woman', because power never gives them authority, so it has to be taken. She condemned the notion that women are care-givers, but cannot give orders. That creates the impression that only a few women can get to the top. "Family relationships are longer lasting than any career, so there should be a balance. Believe in yourself and know that those who failed had no will. Take a chance on yourself and believe

in the beauty of your dreams because if you fall and remain down, people will trample on you." Mrs Alakija, the woman with a sense of style and focus, just like the late Rosa Parks who inspired blacks, said there are still a few women in Nigeria who inspire. She mentioned the Minister of Finance, Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala; first female Chief Justice of Nigeria Justice Aloma Mariam Mukhtar; first female elected African Head of State and Liberian President, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and Mrs Hilary Clinton, who all double as wives and mothers but conquered all barriers and remain shining examples. The conference ended on a friendly note with questions and answers and photograph sessions, where participants interacted with speakers.

THE NATION FRIDAY, AUGUST 29, 2014

SOCIETY The families of the late Chief Joseph Babatunde and the late Alhaji Babatunde Adeniji became one last Saturday following the solemnisation of the union of their children, Ayodeji and Abimbola in Lagos, reports OLATUNDE ODEBIYI.

T was their day. Anxiety gave way to excitement and hope was fulfilled. Ayodeji and Abimbola smiled and smiled as it was their day. They were not alone in the display of love. Family members and friends shared in their joy. They came to rejoice with Ayodeji, a financial management consultant, son of former Director in the Ministry of a Power and Steel, Federal Capital Territory, the late Chief Joseph Babatunde and Abimbola, daughter of the late Alhaji Babatunde Adeniji. The venue was the Havilah Events Centre in Yaba, Lagos Mainland. The engagement held at the grand floor of the venue. Gift items from the groom’s family were placed on a table. Some of the items include yam tubers, fruits, drinks, travel bag and some other items wrapped in pink wrappers. The couple’s seat was placed at the opposite side of the gift items. The background was decorated in pink and grey fabric with mat used as design. While the groom’s family sat on the left hand side of the couple seat, the bride’s were on the right. The programme began at noon. One of the anchor persons, Mrs Deborah Rufai a.k.a. Fere Jesu praise band welcomed guests. The groom’s family announced their arrival in style. The groom’s mother, Mrs Omolara Babatunde was clad in a blue buba and iro with silver ipele and head gear. Her late husband’s representative, Mr Godwin Olugbemi, led other family members in. After performing the ritual of paying some naira notes they entered the venue amid praise songs by Emcee and her band. They moved straight to their in-laws for some pleasntries. They later took their seats. The event kicked off with an opening prayer from a member of the bride’s family, Mrs Abimbola Olaniwun. This was followed by praise songs. It was followed by the reading of the marriage proposal from the groom’s family by Temitope. The groom, Adeniyi, looked attractive in his white lace buba and sokoto with grey aso oke as agbada. He entered in company of his friends. They prostrated to greet his in-laws who prayed for them. The groom afterwards sat in between his parent in-laws and posed for photographs. He did same with his parents before taking to the white bridal seat. His wife, Abimbola, entered in the same manner. She was all smiles in pink lace buba with iro, ipele and head tie made of aso oke and designed in pink colour. After greeting her in-laws and parents, she danced round before eventually fitting the cap on her husband’s head. The couple exchanged ring and cut their traditional wedding cake. Both families took photographs, exchanged pleasantries and the wedding train moved into the hall of the Havilah Events Centre. It was filled beyond capacity as guests took to labeled seats. The hall was tastefully decorated. Its wall, tables and chairs were covered in pink and white. There were lights all over and screen placed at various points, showing photograghs of the couple. Olori Tutu Olowoyo said the opening prayers and the couple were invited into the hall. They had changed to English wear; the bride was in a white dress and the groom

'She is dependable' •From left: Chief Babatunde; Mr Olayiwola Adeniji; the couple, Adeniyi and Abimbola; Mrs Adeniji and Mr Olugbemi

•From left: Mr Alarape; Alhaji Ganiu Alagbada and Gbenga Ojo

• Mr Colley Taoleye

•Mr Gafari Sulaiman (left) and Mr Hameed Ogunnaike

•Chief Sunday Adesida and his wife, Janet

• Mrs Mojisola Olatunji PHOTOS: RAHMAN SANUSI

in grey suit. They danced all the way from the door to their seat on stage to music supplied from Sweet Muzik Productions. Fere Jesu assisted by Emeka Ige a.k.a. Saint Envi anchored the event. Welcoming the couple, the chairman on the occasion, Abdul Rahman Alarape, urged the couple to continue to learn from each another. “Learn to understand yourselves, be patient, enduring and pamper each other; build a house and a family of peace and joy,” Alarape said. After his speech, an African group, Moseq Creativity, had a cultural performance which caught guest’s attention. The couple cut their four-step white cake at the random count of

200 to 5. They had the toast and danced to Call on me, by John legend. The dance became romantic when the music changed to Saxophone tune supplied by Saxophonist, Abayomi Oyelade a.k.a. yhumie, leaving guests unable to keep their eyes off the couple. The chief bride’s maid and the best man also had a bridal dance following which the bride threw bouquet to the single ladies. The party continued with music from Ultimate Brothers, a life band. Guests were treated to sumptuous meals and drinks. Abimbola, an insurance graduate from Lagos State Polytechnic (LASPOTECH), described her beau as wonderful, generous and friendly. She said she feels great and relaxed.

“Looking back today is simply like a dream but I thank God it has been a success,” she said. Adeniyi, who hails from Kogi State and graduated from Covenant University, said he first met his bride in his state. He described her as a young pretty woman with a strong heart. He said: “She is a goal getter and a good partner, she is dependable, trust worthy, supportive, a supplier, provider and she is always there. “I am so privileged to find favour in God’s sight just as the Bible said: ‘He that finds a wife finds a good thing and obtains favour from God’. “Meeting her for the first time in 2009, moving into a fulltime relationship three years ago and finally getting married to her today is a

thing of great joy for me,” he said. The bride’s mother, Mrs Bolanle Adeniji, urged the couple to live in love, peace and harmony. She said they should only share their problems with God who is able to provide solution. The groom’s mother, Mrs Babatunde, wished the couple a successful marriage, adding, they have to live together in love and tolerance. “They should love themselves, fear the Lord and understand that the fear of God is the beginning of wisdom,” she said. Olugbemi noted that marriage is a life time partnership and urged the couple to put their trust in God. The representative of the bride’s father, Olayiwola Adeniji, urged the couple to continue in the good way they started their relationship.

THE NATION FRIDAY AUGUST 29, 2014

THE NATION FRIDAY, AUGUST 29, 2014

COMMENTARY FROM OTHER LANDS

EDITORIAL

The Gwoza debacle •The hoisting of Boko Haram flag in the town reflects a new low in our anti-terror fight

HE reported seizure last Thursday of Gwoza town in Borno State by Boko Haram insurgents and its purported re-designation as an Islamic caliphate constitutes an egregious insult and assault on the integrity and sovereignty of the Nigerian state. A 52-minute video footage obtained and released by Agence France-Press last week showing the Boko Haram leader, Abubakar Shekau, celebrating the capitulation of Gwoza indicates that the claim of the insurgents cannot be dismissed with a wave of the hand. The video reportedly featured images of armed militants taking over a military base, stealing arms and ammunition, firing rocket-propelled grenades atop pick-up trucks and carrying out gruesome executions. All this is obviously part of a planned attempt to further frustrate and demoralise the Nigerian military, humiliate the Nigerian state, instil fear in Nigerians and create the impression that the religious extremists are achieving their declared objective of establishing an Islamic state in northern Nigeria. Gwoza’s capture is another clear indication that the Nigerian state’s war against religious terrorism in the North-East is feeble and faltering. As a town that hosts a training academy for Nigeria’s elite mobile police, Gwoza should have been better fortified and protected. It is inexplicable that before seizing control of the town, the rebels had successfully attacked the police academy and looted the armoury. The batch of 159 policemen undergoing training at the time had to flee for their lives as they had reportedly been instructed to deposit all their arms in the

armoury. There was, therefore, no way they could have offered any meaningful resistance to the insurgents. If a strategic security facility could be so vulnerable, the fate of civilians in the affected areas can be best imagined. The Director of Defence Information, Major General Chris Olukolade, was understandably doing his job when he defiantly asserted that the military would not allow any part of the country to be ceded to insurgents. Describing Shekau’s claims as empty, Olukolade said “The sovereignty and 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 the expression of delusion and crime”. This is good rhetoric. However, it is unhelpful for us to live in denial. The reality is that the Islamists’ black flag is flying over Gwoza. Beyond this, the United Nations humanitarian office had earlier this month reported that Boko Haram is in control of other areas near Gwoza in Southern Borno as well as considerable territory in neighbouring Yobe State. The Gwoza debacle should be a wakeup call for the Nigerian state to confront the Boko Haram menace with greater sense of purpose and urgency. We continue to have faith in the professionalism, courage and patriotism of the Nigerian military. But the root causes of the evident low morale and poor motivation among officers and troops responsible for the recent reverses the country has suffered in the war against terror must be urgently addressed. It is illogical to expect soldiers to courageously put their lives on the line

for their country when they see a political leadership that engages in the most wanton and reckless acts of corruption. The on-going war against Boko Haram is unfortunately widely seen as another avenue for corrupt enrichment by our thieving elite to the detriment of the country’s territorial integrity. The pathetic state of the Nigerian military is only a reflection of the sorry state of the nation. Now is the time particularly for President Goodluck Jonathan to show leadership as Commander-In-Chief of the Armed Forces. He must arouse the nation to confront this affront as one and instil new faith and confidence in the fighting forces. He must demonstrate that it is intolerable and unacceptable for an inch of Nigerian territory to be under an alien flag even for a second.

‘The root causes of the evident low morale and poor motivation among officers and troops responsible for the recent reverses the country has suffered in the war against terror must be urgently addressed. It is illogical to expect soldiers to courageously put their lives on the line for their country when they see a political leadership that engages in the most wanton and reckless acts of corruption’

Still on Ebola

•In spite of hearty news, some concerns linger

HANKFULLY, the anxiety that pervaded the country when late Mr. Patrick Sawyer brought the Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) into the country in July, has subsided. After some deaths and scrupulous surveillance, the authorities say we have only one case in the country, and the patient is in stable condition. Praise must go to the Federal Government for its collaboration with the Lagos State government to contain the disease. Special commendation also goes to the Lagos State Governor, Babatunde Raji Fashola, SAN, for mobilising the state’s institutions with those of the Federal Government in restoring hope after a frenetic month. We can only expect such intergovernmental cooperation to extend to other spheres of life. However, the issue has remained in the front burner of national discourse. It has brought about all kinds of requests, demands, campaign and what have you. All these are expected given the emergency that the disease represents. One of the

‘However, the Federal Government has to ensure that the extension of the holiday is not in vain by implementing the preventive measures it promised before the students resume . We should avoid being carried away by the gains we have recorded in the containment of the disease’

latest issues about the disease is the demand by health care providers in the country for the Federal Government to carry them along in the current war against Ebola. Another is the postponement of the resumption by pupils in public and private primary and secondary schools across the country, currently on holiday. The health providers, under the aegis of the Association of General and Private Medical Practitioners of Nigeria and the Guild of Medical Directors of Nigeria bared their minds at a meeting with the health minister, Prof. Onyebuchi Chukwu, and top officials of the ministry in Abuja on August 22. They also complained that the government has not provided any of their members with the protective wears used in treating the EVD patients. We may not agree entirely with the health providers that it is the duty of government to provide all they are asking for. For instance, as the minister noted, the Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) that they want are meant to be used at the Ebola isolation centres and not in the hospitals. Moreover, face masks, fresh pair of gloves for each patients; aprons; etc. that they said they need are supposed to be the standard tools that they should have been using even before the EVD became an issue in the country. Nonetheless, it is our view that the government still has to integrate them into its anti-Ebola war. As the health providers noted at the parley with Prof Chukwu, they are at risk probably more than even their counterparts in public hospitals. The first case of the deadly disease, we should not forget, occurred at the First Consultants Hospital, a private hospital owned by a member of the association. Although suspected cases of Ebola still have to be referred to the appropriate quarters, patients somewhat believe that their confidential-

ity is better protected at the private hospitals, hence the likelihood that they would make the private clinics their first port of call. Again, because of the emergency that the disease is, government should assist the private hospitals in the special training on how to handle the disposal of hospital equipment. These are not normal times, and no amount is too much to be invested in safeguarding Nigerians against the Ebola disease. We commend the Federal Government for postponing schools’ resumption. Although it would seem a contradiction for the same government that says EVD has been contained in the country to also postpone schools resumption, the decision is one of the good things it has done since the outbreak of EVD. Containment does not imply elimination. Although many people, particularly proprietors of private schools may not be comfortable with the postponement since their income depends on school fees paid by the students, the fact is that this is not the best of times and nothing should be left to chance concerning Ebola, particularly where our young ones are concerned. They are highly vulnerable and should be well protected. The proprietors have to realise that there comes a time when people have to make sacrifice in the interest of all. This is one such moment for them. However, the Federal Government has to ensure that the extension of the holiday is not in vain by implementing the preventive measures it promised, before the students resume . We should avoid being carried away by the gains we have recorded in the containment of the disease so far, as a new case has just been detected in Port harcourt, the Rivers State capital.

A confab of disappointment

IGERIANS should stand up and dissociate from the just concluded National Conference as it failed to resolve core issues bothering on the nation’s unity. The recommendations of the conference, which President Goodluck Jonathan said he will do all within his power to implement, will amplify gross inequality, marginalization and injustice. There will be deeper displeasure; crisis and conflict shall continue. The conference resolutions will not change anything from current pains; not even did it agree to increase the minimum wage of the working poor. Yet politicians will continue to misappropriate and embezzle billions. The conference, which delegates were mostly nominated by government so raised curiosity about hidden agenda to protect status quo, cognizance of the fact that Nigeria was illegally imposed on free pre-colonial independent ethnic nations, refused on the instruction of Jonathan, to discuss whether the different ethnic nations forced to be Nigerians against their wish can and are willing to stay together as one, and on what terms. We hold strong the belief that all humans, ethnic nations and indigenous peoples have inalienable right to freedom and thus self-determination which grants the power to design and control their destiny. This fundamental right makes the forcing of people to live together without prior and informed consent unlawful as operational in Nigeria. Although the conference created the wrong impression that it recommended true federalism, it is based on false premise. There can’t be true federalism where three ethnic groups: Hausa-Fulani, Yoruba and Igbo maintain that they’re the major groups while the rest are minorities and so used the conference as means to protecting about 21 out of current 36 states they have and maneuvered the recommendation for the creation of more. More than 90 percent of current states depend solely on oil money from Niger delta which has six states and has about 30 ethnic groups. These states are mostly composed of multi-ethnic groups against the about 21 states which are members of the tripartite ethnic groups above. There can’t be true federalism where the conference recommends 18 additional states that are mostly non-viable and some added to the 21 states for these three groups and spread the rest around remaining 15 states. These new states will, as usual, wait every month instead of thinking and creating more, to share oil money confiscated from mostly Niger Deltans, from so-called federation account. No country which seeks better future for its people can succeed by promoting laziness, dependency and not imagination, innovation and competition, while mounting unlawful and unacceptable pressure on the region the money the country depends on comes from. In proper federations, if you must eat the cake as a state and people, you must contribute to its baking by way of internal revenue generation to meet local needs and taxes to the centre for more to be available. We join hands with those who have advocated a return to the regional system of government, because of its positive promises, and the fact that people can refer to the era in Nigeria as when government worked well before the military struck in 1966. It’s no longer secret that the conference didn’t achieve any positive measure that will impact and alleviate the suffering of the masses of the common people who are working hard but finds it difficult to get by. If implemented, it will boost corruption and protect stolen wealth by politicians, their families and business associates. There is therefore need for all the oppressed of Nigeria to standup now, dissociate from the failed conference and demand a Sovereign National Conference which Nigerians have advocated and demanded but repeatedly overruled by the military and the political class which cherishes the cheating, and unjust status quo ante. Alternatively, the oppressed peoples or ethnic nations may fashion out ways to seek external self-determination or independence, where their call for a genuine conference that will take all of the above issues into account and resolve them based on equal representation and consent, honesty, equality and justice for all is ignored. • Ben Ikari, African Cultural and Fundamental Rights Council, AFCRC, USA

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

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THE NATION FRIDAY, AUGUST 29, 2014

CARTOON & LETTERS

IR: The map of the world is being drawn and re-drawn as countries split up into many nations. There is no guarantee that a country will remain undivided, permanently. Strong countries annex weak ones while the watchdog of the world and UN watches helplessly. Most homogenous ethnic nations in our today’s world want to achieve self-determination. Consequently, federal states break up into smaller nation states. USSR was a counter force to America; they were the two superpower countries flexing muscles on the global stage, then. But, the failure of the Glasnost and Perestroika heralded the disintegration of USSR. It was not only USSR that split into many smaller nationstates. Czechoslovakia was dismembered. Yugoslavia broke up; and Bosnia and Croatia came out of it. India and Pakistan used to be one country. Back home in Africa, South Sudan has become the youngest and newest nation-state on the African continent. Currently, some ethnic nations are agitating and fighting for selfdetermination. Scotland will conduct a referendum in September to determine its continued stay as a member of the United Kingdom. And, the Basque people want out of their union with Spain. Following the annexation of Crimea by Russia, the Donetsk and Luhansk in Ukraine have started fighting for their separation from Ukraine. The two pro-Russian states are fighting with Ukraine for months with its dire consequences and casualties. Thousands of people have died in the battle. And Russia is accused of backing the separatist regions. But, for how long can Ukraine successfully put down the Donetsk and Luhansk people’s agitation for state-hood? In the Middle-east, Islamic state fighters have captured large swathes of Iraq and Syria. It has established its capital in Mosul, Iraq. The Islamic state fighters, who are mainly Sunni Muslims, persecute non-Muslims, such as Yazidis, Christians, and Shia Muslims, whom they regard as heretics. They want to create an Islamic caliphate in the regions that straddle Syria and Iraq. And, the Kurds in Iraq are

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Is Nigeria better off as one country? very conscious of their ethnic origins. They nurse self-determination notions. The Kurds’ army that is called the Peshmerga is fighting the Islamic state fighters in Iraq. In Nigeria, Boko Haram, a terrorist group that is linked to al-Qaeda, has been waging war against Nigeria. Boko Haram insurgents have seized some towns in Borno State. They hoisted their flags in Damboa and Gwoza towns in Borno StateThe group abducted almost 300 Chibok school girls and took them into captivity. Their aim is to Islamize Nigeria, and create an Islamic caliphate in Northern Nigeria. Nigeria is not a united country.

People from one ethnic group view other people with deep distrust and hatred. Sadly, our efforts that are aimed at achieving national integration and unity have not yielded the expected results. For example, our participation in the NYSC programme has not disabused our minds of prejudices we have about other ethnic groups other than ours. We view issues through religious and ethnic prisms. Besides, religion has become a divisive factor when it comes to politics. We fought a gratuitous civil war, which claimed the lives of millions of Nigerians. Ethnic hatred and religious intolerance partly caused the

outbreak of that Nigeria-Biafra civil war. So, I was taken aback when the issue of our continued existence as one country was expunged from topics that were discussed at the concluded national conference. Delegates to the national conference have concluded their discussions and handed in their recommendations to the president. Are all the people(s) from diverse ethnic groups that make up Nigeria happy to be in Nigeria? Is this country not too big and unwieldy to be governed by one central government? For how long shall we continue to pretend that the marriage of the Southern and Northern pro-

tectorates is working? Does egalitarianism, which is a force for national growth, exist here? Against the background of our fragile peace and unity, is it not imperative for us to discuss and negotiate our continued existence as one country? Isn’t it time for us to spare a thought for factors that corrode the foundation of our national unity? It is an incontrovertible fact that the greatness of Nigeria lies in its ethnic and religious diversities, large land mass and humongous population. But, the peaceful resolution of our issues is better than resorting to violence to achieve our aims. As the 2015 elections draw nearer, I am filled with apprehension owing to the utterances and threats issuing from ethnic chauvinists. If they are not checked, they can make America’s apocalyptic predictions about Nigeria’s demise in 2015 come true. • Chiedu Uche Okoye Uruowulu-Obosi, Anambra State

Still on CBN’s latest ATM policy

IR: Godwin Emefiele, the Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria, is set to reverse some of the legacies of his predecessor with the re-introduction of charges on ATM withdrawals, bringing to front burner the US President, Barack Obama’s warning few years ago that Africa does not need strong men but strong institutions to achieve development. The new ATM policy neither conforms to the bank’s core objective of promoting sound financial system in the country nor in tandem with its cashless policy being pursued across the country. In retrospect, the removal of charges on the so-called remote-onus withdrawals was first started by one of the new generation bankers long before the CBN issued an official memo backing up the initiative in December, 2012. As a result, Nigerian customers no longer have to embark on endless search for their bankers since they could always make withdrawals on any ATM free. However, that good old days will soon disappear as custom-

ers will be required to pay N65 after every three transactions on other ATMs in a month, effective September 1. Worst still, the CBN has turned itself the mouthpiece of the bankers all in a bid to justify the policy. With the manner and way the bank has been defending this policy, it creates a sore on the image of the regulatory body which ought to be neutral in discharging its functions. One is being forced to reach a conclusion that there may be more to it than meets the ordinary eyes. The argument being canvassed by the apex bank that ATMs are expensive to maintain and that “customers were beginning to abuse the use of ATM through countless daily withdrawals” is fallacious and does not sink. At best, it could be described as crying more than the bereaved. CBN should have directed its searchlight towards finding the cause of the said “abuse”, rather thab which often insist that virtually every withdrawal should be done on the ATMs. The CBN has not convinced Nigerians how this policy will eliminate

the identified “abuse”. While CBN want Nigerians to believe that the charge is applicable to the fourth remote-on-us withdrawals in a month, it has not demonstrated what mechanism it has put in place to ensure that bankers increase the amount withdrawable by their customers at a go on ATMs. The reason for this is that most bankers place a ceiling on the amount that can be withdrawn per transaction on their ATMs. Some of this ranges from N10, 000 with N20, 000 being the maximum per withdrawal. The implication of this is that one can exceed the so-called three times charge-free allowable in a month in just one transaction and, this is where the exploitation and the insincerity of the policy lie. The CBN’s governor should concern himself more with eliminating the dubious in-house practices by the bankers that impede the interest of their customers. Some of these bankers continue to steal millions of naira from their customers’ accounts every day while the regulatory body practically does

nothing other than its usual noneffective directive to return the stolen money. This is not to mention all manner of dubious and irregular charges that the customers are forced to pay everyday by their bankers. By and large, Mr Emefiele should not only be interested on the wear and tear of these machines as it affects the bankers only. He should equally be interested on the quality of services being delivered to the customers of these bankers. He should find out why most of these ATMs will debit customers’ account without dispensing cash to them. Also he should seek to know while most Debit cards which are supposed to expire in four or five years suddenly become “inopperative” only for the holder to be made to cough out N1, 500 for requesting a replacement. The CBN should not put the cart before the horse; he should do the needful first.

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• Barrister Okoro Gabriel, Ebonyi.

THE NATION FRIDAY, AUGUST 29, 2014 16

COMMENTS

‘My truth is truer than yours’ Email: tunji_ololade@yahoo.co.uk 08038551123, 08111845040

HERE is nothing more pathetic than a critical mob; gangs of columnists, journalists, hatchet writers and career critics may stir up strife but their efforts eventually pass like the hum of mosquitoes seeking to make a noise like thunder. Like the rest of the Nigerian mob, the social media critic, newspaper columnist and journalist symbolize a tiresome mercenariness of complacency, avarice and inertia. However, unlike the rest of the Nigerian mob, this critical mob epitomizes the tragic manifestations of the pious frauds of citizenship, like microbes hastening the decomposition of corpses. Nigerians love being conned and the Nigerian ruling class knows that; so does the Nigerian critic. The latter knows that, if you can deceive the citizenry in grand and enter-

‘We essentially epitomize a style of living which cultivates sincerity and is at the same time a fraud. We arrogate to ourselves rights to nobility and free speech by twisting truth into relative truths and true lies in an existence we have learnt to rationalize as gracious and irrevocably necessary. This has to be odious; it is’

taining styles, you will get away with it more often than you could count thus the continual deception, impoverishment and murder of the Nigerian masses. Like the masses or totality of the Nigerian mob, the critic suffers exposure to pain and humiliation for too long in the hands of the ruling class thus ending up in a pitiful state evocative of a condition of enthrallment in which the hypnotized individual finds himself in the hands of the hypnotizer. Careful observation would however, suggest that foremost crusaders of the critical mob variously suffer paralysis of the intellect as does every hypnotized subject; consequently, the latter becomes enslaved to an object, a need, money, a perversion or an idea by which the hypnotizer (oftentimes the ruling class) directs and belittles him at will. It’s a shame that I belong to the journalistic segment of this pathetic societal divide; as a journalist and newspaper columnist cum social critic, I am not in any way distinguishable from the rot emblematic of my colleagues in the Fourth Estate of the realm. However much I try to absolve myself of blame; the society is wired to see us all journalists as a bunch of unrepentant liars, pawns to tyrants and die-hard fortune hunters. We essentially epitomize a style of living which cultivates sincerity and is at the same time a fraud. We arrogate to ourselves rights to nobility and free speech by twisting truth into relative truths and true lies in an existence we have learnt to rationalize as gracious and ir-

ATURALLY, when elections draw near in Nigeria, the polity is agog with a flurry of activities. All manners of human beings masquerading as politicians will be on hand selling their dirty wares to the unsuspecting masses. So, the emerging situation in Oyo State today is the usual hallmark associated with politics in this part of our world. Ironically, what motivates politicians in other climes to offer themselves to serve their people are most often than not in low quantum or non-existent in our own case. Politicians, who by their background, exposure and other known or hidden factors, qualify to aim to be councillors, will aim for the highest political position in the land. In our own system, acquisition of money, irrespective of the morality of its sources, were the only yardsticks either on the part of contestants or their supporters who are largely made up of rented crowd. So, altruistic factors for leadership do not matter in political calculations, as long as the would-be contestant has a deep pocket. The sad result of poor ascendancy in our political system stares everyone in the face. Even, in circles and quarters where one would have expected the stakes to be high and optimum standards put in place, what we get, shockingly, are pedestrian and self –serving yardsticks. It is against this backdrop that one views the on-going melodrama in the build-up to who becomes the governor of Oyo State next February, as most unfortunate. It is worrisome that such things are happening in a state reputed to be the pacesetter in the country and the political headquarters of the Yoruba race. Or how does one fathom over 15 people jostling for the Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) ticket in Oyo State? Could serious minded people who are desirous of serving their constituents genuinely be this blinded by ambition? Even if PDP has no opponents to contend with in the February, 2015 elections, it is very clear that the bickering and backstabbing that will follow the emergence of one of the palace jesters called aspirants will take another four years to contend with. Where then lies the interest, well-being and future of the hapless electorate on the chessboard of politicians who are rabid opportunists? If you look in the other directions, it is only Rashidi Ladoja of the Accord Party that could be said to have a semblance of political choice available for the people of Oyo State. That option on its own carries a lot of precarious liabilities that make the choice suspect. The other political gangs, looking for recognition and relevance daily to cover their treacherous past, could not be seen as a united force that could assuage the feelings of the larger percentage of the electorate in Oyo State. It is saddening if sharing of political lucre among party members is the main reason for disagreement among politicians elected to serve the people and protect their interests. It is equally uncharitable if the rivalry of who becomes a par-

revocably necessary. This has to be odious; it is. Despite the cowardice and duplicity of Nigeria’s critical mob, it is amusing to see other constituents of this mob divide tirelessly chastise and identify the Nigerian journalist as a bane to progress and monumental disgrace to the society. To this, many a journalist and newspaper columnist have responded that the society essentially wishes that the journalist do not effectively fulfill his responsibilities to it. Likewise, I have corroborated such argument claiming that big business and politicians’ ownership of mainstream media gives them intimidating capacities to influence and set the agenda for the media and society in general. This is an intimidating reality no doubt; it is obscenely silly and selfserving of the Nigerian society to continually muscle in the media’s job and prevent it from discharging its duties effectively and yet turn around to identify the Nigerian press as fraudulent and disgraceful. However, this does not in any way ennoble the shamefulness and irresponsibility of the Nigerian press. Journalists, unlike the social media critic, delusional citizen or online journalist, press secretary or special media adviser to the ruling class, are expected to fulfill more sensitive and crucial roles to the society. The Nigerian journalist should be the hero that perpetually cramps himself into demanding roles of watchdog. It is shameful however, that the contemporary journalist takes unpardonably dense and gruesome human elements for gods and worships them as such; by enslaving himself to such characters, the journalist is duly taken for some idle, nondescript human integer, extant in the world to entertain tyranny and have a few naira and demeaning errands thrown at him

that he might get to enjoy a taste of the good life or a semblance of it. Be it as Special Media Adviser to the President, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Personal Assistant to the MD, Corporate Affairs Manager or any other title created for an enslaved press intellectual within public or private sector, the journalist shirks his role as societal watchdog; he becomes lapdog, dung-dog or junkyard dog of the ruling class. In the strict slave system in which he works, there can scarcely be such a thing as crime; whatever his principal does is fair and justifiable – his ultimate aim is to keep his employer happy and thus guarantee the security of his meal ticket. It is no surprise therefore that the journalist and newspaper columnist who ought to serve as a check on the bestiality and excesses of the ruling class eventually become the defender and justifier of such vile. Those who are not yet lured into the loop of schemes and largesse of the ruling class painstakingly become gadflies to the ruling class. They taunt and condemn every measure, utterance and action of the country’s leadership in desperate bid to bully whatever government excites their greed and duplicity till they include them as recipients of crumbs of the proverbial “national cake.” Eventually they are deployed by all manner of characters to perpetuate a My truth is truer than yours’ mentality. As crucial appendage of Nigeria’s critical mob, the press has mutated into a contemptible factor, trollopy in conduct and pitifully cast in the stormy waters of Nigeria’s sociopolitics. Far flung in the murky waters, many have drowned, a paltry few struggle to swim against the tides while many more hang suspended, to be forced up or down by the chance currents of a sleazy, vicious world. How can such hu-

man elements fulfill the roles of watchdog and moral compass of the society? For too long, the Nigerian journalist has tirelessly fulfilled the role of criminal constituent amid the nation’s critical mob divide. So doing, he becomes blamable for every ill and any ill symptomatic of the country’s steady descent the slope of amorality and currency-activated self-destruct. What is however, true of the journalist is peculiarly true of other human elements of the Nigerian society; contemporary happenstances attest to the fact that the current generation of Nigerians, the youth in particular, is afflicted by an intense tumult of self-interest, gluttony and intricate trashing of spirit that destroys whatever nerve could be mustered in pursuit of truth, personal and societal progress. Poverty and job insecurity are ascribed as our reasons for betrayal; true, the society betrays the journalist by the hour but it’s about time we stopped repaying perfidy with perfidy. It’s about time we evolved dependable and practicable means of creating and instituting a leadership, society and media practice we could trust. We could begin by ditching our familiar whining and blame-mongering to evolve a culture of truthfulness and conscientious citizenship. It is no longer permissible to contend that the journalist is only a reflection of the society he serves. By advancing such argument, we box ourselves into straits of sophistry and frantic rationalizations. This is unacceptable of purported men of letters and conscience of the society. Truth is what we should speak. Truth is what we should be guided by. But what manner of truth should be the watchword of the Nigerian journalist and critic?

Oyo governorship in perspective By Victor Oluwa ty’s flag-bearer in the governorship race were the raison d’etre for dumping a political party that brought one to limelight. The electorates who toiled day and night laboriously to ensure that today’s gladiators in Oyo State politics came to power no longer count. It is ego on display, backed by ill-gotten wealth. This kind of behaviour and the negative use of money to confuse the electorate may not achieve much this time around because the voting public is wiser than it used to be. Evaluating Abiola Ajimobi’s administration in the last three years, it is crystal clear that he has raised the bar of governance from the pedestrian level of yester-years to an Olympian height, that has made Oyo State an investors’ destination of choice. The fact that the governor, unlike his contemporaries in other states, is peace loving, gentle and humane cannot be denied, even by his political foes. Consequently, a man who loves and protects his people, irrespective of political affiliations, and who treated them fairly and equally, to all intents and purposes, remains the best man, still, for the job. The Ajimobi administration’s footprints are spread across the state. Most of his policy thrusts are products of painstaking research and planning, with a photo-finish implementation strategies. Examples abound in his ground-breaking infrastructural development and beautification, youth empowerment, provision of portable water and maintenance of peace and security. Looking for a man who thinks outside the box, Ajimobi is it! The Ajimobi administration’s giant strides in the area of quality road construction and expansion, resuscitation of the moribund Agodi Gardens and the introduction of modern management of refuse, establishment of a Technical University, among others are quite commendable. The administration has changed the face of the state through heavy investment in provision and maintenance of social infrastructure, as exemplified by the Mokola Fly-Over, the first of its kind in the history of any civilian administration in Oyo State. Unlike his predecessors, Ajimobi’s insistence on quality road jobs and fitting drainages that will stand the test of time, stands him out as a man of vision. If the assessment of experts were anything to go by, the road projects across Oyo State were done in line with best practices for the government to ensure value for money and the road users to enjoy a long lasting road network, geared towards improving the state economy. It is against this background that eminent citizens of the

state and beyond have been associating with the Ajimobi phenomenon in Oyo State. The endorsements from the late Alhaji Abdul-Azeez Arisekola Alao, Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, Dr. Olapade Agoro, notable individuals and groups, foremost traditional rulers, members of the academic community could only be symptomatic of the handiwork of a performing governor. The question that readily arises is: What can Ajimobi offer this cross section of the people that would make them a rented crowd or campaign instruments? Give it to them, they must have seen what God had used Ajimobi for in the lives of the Oyo State people, who in their estimation, deserved the best this time around, after many years of crass opportunism, maladministration and neglect by the erstwhile lacklustre political class. As it is customary, politicians at a time like this, will engage all manners of campaign of calumny, character assassination and diversionary tactics. One thing that should be paramount in the minds of the good people of Oyo State, as the election draws nearer, is to evaluate all those who will genuinely serve their interests. Political jobbers, opportunists and discredited politicians, particularly those standing trial for criminal charges, should be rejected at the polls, lest the people be taken back and the hope of a better tomorrow for themselves and their children will continue to hang in the balance. Since a bird in hand, is worth more than 10 in the bush, Ajimobi, who has been tested and seen to have a clear vision and rare commitment, should be trusted to complete his good works. It is precarious to gamble with today’s disgruntled elements who have no clear record of public service, and who are better known as cobweb politicians with no clearcut political pedigree and belief. Politicians that oscillate like an Ibo fan, are not the right class Oyo State requires to go to the next level. There is no gainsaying the fact that Abiola Ajimobi’s passion to serve, commitment and deliverables on his electoral promises in the last three years should earn him a second term without fuss. It is apparent that Ajmobi’s rare achievements as governor are the major albatross around the neck of opposition politicians in Oyo State today. They have a Herculean task of convincing people of throwing away a jar of honey in place of a piece of bean cake. However, the final decision of the good people of Oyo State is in the belly of time! • Oluwa, a Public Affairs analyst writes from Ibadan, Oyo State.

THE NATION FRIDAY, AUGUST 29, 2014

COMMENTS ‘If ever a time should come, when vain and aspiring men shall possess the highest seats in government, our country will stand in need of its experienced patriots to prevent its ruin’ - Samuel Adams’

N recent times, a flurry of heart-rending events has questioned the profundity of patriotism among Nigerians. The latest of such, despite the face-saving denial by Defence Headquarters (DHQs), was what passed for a theatre of the absurd: The report that the 480 Nigerian soldiers deployed to fight the implacable Boko Haram insurgents not only fled to Cameroon out of trepidation, but were also disarmed after voluntarily surrendering themselves! This frightening event was preceded by another recent incongruous military denial about some soldiers’ shots aimed at a car carrying Maj.-Gen. Ahmadu Mohammed, former General Officer Commanding the 7 Division in Maiduguri, Borno State. Another theatrical scene, also within the military domestic families with a tinge of serious hilarity was the reported protests by wives of soldiers against the deployment of their spouses to flashpoints of the Boko Haram onslaughts. Some soldiers, as depicted by the shameful but survival-motivated move, fled to Cameroon, ostensibly to underscore their discontent with “deadly” postings to better-armed insurgents’ territory. In crass contradiction of the routine official lies of the military’s high command, some of mutinous soldiers’ involved in aforestated acts from the Army’s 7th Division are currently undergoing court martial. Who is fooling who under the prevailing corrupt executive/military conspiracy against the Nigerian state? The military in well managed climes are well cherished national asset with officers/ soldiers that are always combat-ready to defend the territorial integrity of their nations against internal insurrection or external aggressions – even at the point of death! Soldiers as professionals upon enlistment expectedly concede their lives to their countries. It is pertinent at this juncture, in view of scandalous happenings in the military, to rue over the issue of military patriotism and soldiers’ commitment to their oath of allegiance to this nation. Is it possible for soldiers to disobey superior orders, no matter the circumstances, as is being witnessed in this country today? In an ideal legalistic situation, soldiers sign off their lives through pledges of unalloyed allegiance to their nation through respect for her flag and commitments to contents of her national anthem. But this cannot be replacements/justification for the shameful killings of ill-equipped soldiers as are being witnessed on the Boko Haram war front. The question to ask is whether the country’s leaders/service chiefs think they can

T has been an important tradition in HIS seven years as Governor of Jigawa State. Every year during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, Alhaji Sule Lamido hosted the Iftar, or breaking of fast, with people from all walks of life. While the Muslim faithful engage in fasting in order to be closer to Allah, the governor hosts citizens, friends and associates to the iftar in order to increase his own closeness to the people. Sir Muhammadu SAnusi II Durbar Ground in Dutse is the usual venue for the event. Political associates, old classmates, clerics, civil servants, students, youth and women groups as well as physically challenged persons are all hosted in turn to break the fast with Governor Sule Lamido. Night after night, he shared meals with the invited guests and citizens who also had the opportunity to speak to the head of the state government. During this year’s Ramadan, members of opposition political parties, religious leaders, associates of the governor from Kano State and his old mates from

‘Indigenes as well as recent visitors to Jigawa State all testify that the face of Jigawa State has been transformed in the seven years that Alhaji Sule Lamido ruled over it. The transformation has been in all sectors and the overall impact has been profound’

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‘Mutineer’ soldiers and test of patriotism

• Jonathan preserve her liberties if they failed to realise that the people, including soldiers, have the right to resistance if things are avoidably going shady and irresponsible. Nigerians are all living witnesses to a time when police went on strike in this country. If they thought what happened under that former President Olusegun Obasanjo draconian rule was an exception, then, they got it wrong; what is happening under incumbent President Goodluck Jonathan is unthinkable for military men to attempt to kill their commander and to resist official and lawful deployment. This underscores the abysmal level of motivation in the military as a result of military/civilian leadership collusion in the corruption of military affairs. In a country where military budget amounts to around N1trillion, such military should boast the best war equipment and highly motivated officers and men of valour. President Jonathan as the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces and his appointed Service Chiefs must publicly tell Nigerians why the contrary is the case in the country today. It is sad that the president and his military top echelon are better adept at deploying soldiers to handle election matters than at protecting

the nation against insurrection fuelled by the Boko Haram. If purported leaders are not, in all conscience patriotic in deeds, how can the citizenry, including soldiers, be propelled to embrace the concept when the need arises? It is obtuse hypocrisy that the extremely corrupt military/political top brass that are doing everything to destroy all good things in the land, through inane misrule and odious graft, are the quickest to crave deceitful patriotism and court martialling of these aggrieved soldiers. The acts of the soldiers no doubt are egregious and legally incomprehensible. But the truth must be told that the difficult ethical and social problems created by a corrupt-laden leadership class that laid the foundational basis for the justifiable grievances must first be resolved. This is where a simplistic generalisation of this military challenge becomes crude and combustible. The soldiers are true reflection of degeneracy in the entire Nigerian society. Also, it is undeniable that the patriotism imbued in citizens, soldiers inclusive, is one akin to a religion that forbids reason but demands impulsive faith and sentiment. If our country, on paper, is worth dying for in time of war, can it be said that it is truly worth living for in time of grave yard peace with staring astronomical unemployment, wanton official corruption, militarised democracy and palpable greed among others? Today’s

‘…the current bunch of service chiefs has failed the country and the Commander-in-Chief is vicariously liable for this. Rather than the official goose chase after these officially designated ‘mutineer soldiers,’ this administration will do better for self, the nation and history, by coming up with a military policy plan of action to rejuvenate the current badly demoralised and battered military’

Lamido’s Ramadan message By Adamu Muhd Usman Barewa College were part of this experience. This year’s occasion had added significance because it is the last Ramadan to be observed before the governor completes his second term in office. He therefore used it as an opportunity for stock-taking on his administration’s programmes, policies and activities in the last seven years. On one particular evening, Governor Lamido hosted party leaders from all the 27 local government areas of Jigawa State. Speaking to this august gathering of political associates all of whom have been part of the great journey that has been the Lamido administration, the governor said he thanked Allah for enabling him to deliver on all his election promises. He said during his inaugural speech in 2007, he presented a booklet which contained his vision, mission and hopes for Jigawa State and its populace. He said, “Today, I am proud to say that I have accomplished the mission. I have delivered on all the promises I made during the campaign and have even gone the extra mile in developing Jigawa State and bringing the dividends of democracy to my people.” He added, “We provided the best roads, the best airport, the best working environment for civil servants, the best health-care services, the best education system, the best judicial system, and we laid a solid foundation for economic and infrastructural development. Above all we promoted discipline, due process, rule of law, patriotism and respect

soldiers spout undue sentiment and compelling partisanship which have diminished their grit. Instead of being the nation’s greatest resource, they have been turned to the nation’s burden. So sad! In the battle against Boko Haram, we have read reports of wounded, crippled and dead soldiers, in this great Boko Haram charade, being swiftly carted away as mere refuse of war. The battle continues to rage but the nation’s leadership is not noble in motive and far-reaching in purpose. Where is the occupational incentive and team motivation necessary to propel soldiers to action? To kill the spirit of resistance under the prevailing circumstance is to allow selfish/greedy interests deflate the country’s nationalistic fervour. It is high time we differentiated between patriotism to a country and to a government. After all, Mark Twain once said: “Patriotism is supporting your country all the time and your government when it deserves it.” This column believes that a patriot, whether in civilian robe or military camouflage, must always be ready to defend his country against a prevailing endemically corrupt government, like we currently have in place. Theodore Roosevelt (1858–1919), a great military leader/warrior, former governor and 26th US president further corroborated this position when he declared: “Patriotism means to stand by the country. It does not mean to stand by the president or any other public official, save exactly to the degree in which he himself stands by the country. It is patriotic to support him in-so-far as he efficiently serves the country. It is unpatriotic not to oppose him to the exact extent that by inefficiency or otherwise he fails in his duty to stand by the country. In either event, it is unpatriotic not to tell the truth, whether about the president or anyone else.” The truth, which I hold to be incontrovertible, is that the current bunch of service chiefs has failed the country and the Commanderin-Chief is vicariously liable for this. Rather than the official goose chase after these officially designated ‘mutineer soldiers,’ this administration will do better for self, the nation and history, by coming up with a military policy plan of action to rejuvenate the current badly demoralised and battered military. This voice of reason is a desideratum at this moment, please!

to human dignity among ourselves and our younger generation.” He has added value to everything and to everyone in Jigawa State including his political opponents, Governor Lamido said, and he challenged anyone to judge his statement according to the booklet he launched at his first inaugural in 2007. State indigenes as well as recent visitors to Jigawa State all testify that the face of Jigawa State has been transformed in the seven years that Alhaji Sule Lamido ruled over it. The transformation has been in all sectors and the overall impact has been profound. His dynamic administration has established schools and hospitals, constructed roads and water schemes etc. Economic activities have received a huge boost and the foundations have been laid for rapid industrialisation. A first class airport has been built to facilitate the easy movement of goods and services and to facilitate the coming of investors who are set to cash in on Jigawa State’s rich potentials now that the foundations have been laid. A Jigawa State University has been established by the Lamido administration in order to afford state indigenes more access to higher education opportunities. Half of eligible candidates of Jigawa origin who seek admission into higher institutions fail to get it due to lack of opportunities, hence the very warm welcome with which Jigawa citizens received the establishment of the state university. At that epochal Ramadan iftar session, the governor also used the occasion to call on

the Jigawa people to be law abiding, committed, hard-working, love one another and to co-operate to move the state forward. He also commended security agencies in the state for ensuring peace and stability in the seven years of his administration. He said they have done their primary task of protecting lives and property very effectively. He said, “I am indebted to Nigerian Army, police, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Nigeria Immigration Service, Prisons, Customs, NDLEA and FRSC for the maintenance of peace in the state”. Governor Lamido capped his speech with an appeal to the youths to be law abiding, respect their elders and aspire to be responsible citizens of Nigeria. He urged them to shun drug abuse, armed robbery, bribery, prostitution, fraud, corruption and other social vices and not allow themselves to be used as political thugs. Governor Lamido also spoke on an issue that agitates the minds of politicians and other citizens, namely the succession. He made it clear that he is not in the business of imposing candidates in elections. He had earlier said that his likely successor will emerge through a round of consultations that will carry everybody along. He will certainly work within his political party, PDP to ensure that a candidate emerges that will sustain the tempo of the last seven years and disabuse the minds of Jigawa citizens that after the Sule Lamido hurricane, there could be a retreat into a standstill. That will not be a fitting succession to a dynamic regime and Governor Sule Lamido is not expected to countenance that. •Adamu is Special Adviser to Jigawa governor on Media.

THE NATION FRIDAY, AUGUST 29, 2014

BUSINESS THE NATION

E-mail:- bussiness@thenationonlineng.net Stories by Taofik Salako

Buffett to get 9% on $3n Burger King investment

ARREN Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway Inc. is providing $3 billion of financing for Burger King Worldwide Inc.'s planned takeover of Tim Hortons Inc. and will earn nine per cent annual interest on the investment. Berkshire is taking a preferred equity stake and won't be involved in managing the restaurant business, according to a statement today from Burger King. Buffett has previously injected capital into financial firms like Goldman Sachs Group Inc. and Bank of America Corp. at times of crisis, and helped fund deals such as Mars Inc.'s purchase of Wm. Wrigley Jr. Co. The latest transaction helps Buffett deploy some of Berkshire's mounting cash pile, which grew to a record $55.5 billion at the end of June. It also deepens his company's relationship with Jorge Paulo Lemann's 3G Capital, which controls Miami-based Burger King. Buffett teamed up with Lemann's firm last year to to take HJ Heinz Co. private. "3G does a magnificent job of running businesses," Buffett said in May at his company's annual meeting in Omaha. Burger King today said it would acquire the Oakville, Ontario-based coffee-anddoughnuts chain for about C$12.5 billion ($11.4 billion) in a deal that creates the third-largest fast-food company and moves its headquarters to Canada. Buffett has shunned bets in publicly traded bonds with yields near record lows, preferring deals in which his reputation and the size of the cash hoard allow Berkshire to lock in better rates than those available to other investors.

NLNG is one of the biggest success stories in our country. From what I am told, the company has invested $13 billion so far since inception, and has become a pacesetter in terms of revenue generation for the government. -Minister of Trade and Investment, Dr Olusegun Aganga

N600b FAAN fund coming for states, local govts

HE 36 states of the Federation and 774 Local Government Areas (LGAs) are expected to get N600 billion from the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) fund this month. Managing Director, Financial Derivatives Company (FDC), Bismarck Rewane said the monthly statutory allocations approved this month stood at N654 billion of which portions of the sum have been disbursed. He explained in an FDC report that the impact on interbank rates was a downward pressure, adding that money

By Collins Nweze

market rates would trade within an average band of 10.5 to 11 per cent per annum due to the spill over effect of the disbursed FAAC funds and barring any significant mopping up by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). “We expect liquidity to increase in the second half of the month when the monthly statutory disbursements are made; approximately N600 billion is anticipated as FAAC payment in August. Interbank rates will continue to move in tandem with market liquidity,” he said.

Rewane said the impact of 8.3 per cent inflation numbers on the money markets is likely to be minimal, even as it remains within the CBN’s target band of six to nine per cent for 2014. Speaking further, the FDC boss said inflation means different things to different people. “To the layman, inflation occurs when he is spending more money to purchase the same quantity of goods. To an economist, it is the general increase in price level over a period of time,” he said. It is also a monetary phenomenon that can be either desirable or undesirable, de-

pending on its impact on other macro-economic variables such as unemployment, output, balance of payments, distribution of wealth among others. The negative side effects of inflation, he added, include the diminution of asset values and portfolios, distortion of economic decisions, and the fact that it discourages savings and investment. However, inflation is not always a bad thing. Inflation, at a particular level, could be desirable especially in a state of robust economic growth. “A major objective, then, for a central bank is to find this balance between the positive and nega-

•From left: Hon. Vice Chairman,Ikorodu North LCDA, Oladunni Balogun Ishola, Executive Chairman, Ikorodu North,LCDA, Prince Muhydeen Adeola Jokomba, Council Manager, Ikorodu North LCDA, Bola Akinbami and Group Head Revenue Collection & Franchise Skye Bank, Mrs Bola Allison at the Official Launch of Point of Sales (POP) Collection System powered by Skye Bank Plc, held in Ikorodu, Lagos.

tive levels of inflation to ensure price stability in an economy,” he said. Rewane said the average Nigeria Interbank Offered Rate (NIBOR) traded above 11 per cent per annum during the first half of August even as there is an indication of a reduction in liquidity. The naira, he said, continues to trade flat at the Retail Dutch Auction System (RDAS) market. The CBN offered and sold an aggregate of $1.4 million and $1.37 million respectively at the RDAS within the first 15 days in August. This, he added, is 3.7 per cent and 17.09 per cent higher than the corresponding period in July. At the interbank market, the naira traded at an average of N162 to dollar even as the value of the naira was kept hovering around this average with forex funds from International Oil Companies and the CBN’s intervention at RDAS. “The naira depreciated by 3.1 per cent at the parallel market to close at N173 to dollar as at August 15; driven by increased speculative activities and seasonalities. Nigeria’s external reserves level grew by 3.31 per cent ($1.27 billion) to $39.59 billion as at August 15, relative to the corresponding period in July,” he said. This level is 18.97 per cent below the 2013 peak of $48.86 billion and 9.2 per cent lower than December’s level of $43.6 billion. The level of import cover has increased to 8.37months, while the imports plus payments cover is now 5.89 months.

Investors’ Protection Fund to pay investors compensation

HE Investors’ Protection Fund (IPF) of the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) may soon begin payment of compensations to investors as the board of trustees of the scheme finalises operating groundwork to ensure smooth and continuous operations. A source in the know of the activities of the IPF told The Nation that the board of IPF was rounding off operating structures and framework for the scheme and would roll out its maiden compensation soon to announce the commencement of effective operations. According to the source, after the approval of the IPF rules by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), the board of trustees of IPF had gone back to the drawing board to ensure that it fashioned effective operating structure and framework that will sustain the scheme. “Any moment from now, the IPF will do something. The board is well aware of anxieties by stakeholders but it is taking its time to ensure things are done very well. After the rules, there were still some background things that needed to be done, these are being finalized now,” the source said. A management source at the NSE had hinted that the IPF

By Taofik Salako

would also look at the backlog of complaints already submitted to the Exchange as starting points for its operations in addition to new complaints. The IPF rules allow the NSE to submit complaints made to it to the IPF while investors can also directly petition the IPF. SEC had in January 2014 approved the rules for the NSE’s IPF. The rules empower the board of IPF to make payment of compensation based on the claim submitted to the NSE and verified by the NSE or claim submitted to the board of IPF and verified by it, according to relevant sections of the ISA. Sources in the know said some of the post-approval groundwork included the written policy on compensation, management of funds and reporting guidelines in order to ensure that the operations of the scheme are transparent and equitable to all investors. The IPF rules empower the board of IPF to have at anytime a written policy on the maximum compensation payable to an investor who has suffered a loss. The board can review this maximum compensation limit from time to time according to prevailing circumstances at the market.

Compensation would be paid subject to conclusive decision of the board on the basis of evidence that the investor has a claim against a dealing member, duly applied for settlement of its claim from the dealing member; the dealing member was unable or likely to be unable to satisfy the claim within a reasonable period and the investor then, duly applied for compensation from the Fund. The board of IPF is also empowered to invest the funds with a view to grow the capital base of the IPF. Part XIV of the Investment and Securities Act 2007 requires the Exchange to establish and maintain an investors protection fund to compensate investors with genuine claims of pecuniary loss against dealing member firms resulting from insolvency, bankruptcy or negligence of a dealing member firm of a securities exchange or capital trade points; and defalcation committed by a dealing member firm or any of its directors, officers, employees or representatives in relation to securities, money or any property entrusted to, or received by the dealing member firm in its course of business as a capital market

operator. The NSE had in 2012 inaugurated a nine-man board of trustees under the chairmanship of Mr Gamaliel Onosode. Other members of the board included managing director of Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), Oscar Onyema; Misan Kofi-Senaya, managing director of Central Securities Clearing System (CSCS), Mr. Kyari Bukar, Chairman, Ibadan Zonal Shareholders Association (IBZA), Chief Sola Abodurin; Fubara Anga, Edosa Kennedy Aigbekaen, Sam Onukwe and Umaru Modibo. The IPF rules indicates that an investor whose claim is within the maximum limit may be paid the full amount of the loss, after deduction of any amount or value of all monies or other benefits received or receivable by the investor from a source other than the Fund in reduction of the loss. Besides, where the board is satisfied that in principle compensation is payable but considers that immediate payment in full would not be prudent having regard to other applications for compensation, or to any uncertainty as to the amount of the investor’s

overall net claim, the draft empowers the board to pay an appropriate lesser sum in final settlement or to make a payment on account. The board may also determine to make a payment on account or to pay a lesser sum where the investor has any prospect of recovery in respect of the claim from any third party or through an application for compensation to any other person or authority. Compensation would be paid subject to conclusive decision of the board on the basis of evidence that the investor has a claim against a dealing member, duly applied for settlement of its claim from the dealing member; the dealing member was unable or likely to be unable to satisfy the claim within a reasonable period and the investor then, duly applied for compensation from the Fund. According to the rules, an application for compensation may be rejected if it is not promptly made and in any event within the periods stipulated in the ISA or where the investor is responsible for, or has directly or indirectly profited from, events relating to the dealing member firm’s business which gave rise to the

firm’s financial difficulties. The draft empowers the board to make payment of compensation based on the claim submitted to the NSE and verified by the NSE or claim submitted to the board of IPF and verified by it, according to relevant sections of the ISA. In the event of multiple claims, person who claims in a double capacity for himself and as the personal representative of a deceased investor will be treated in respect of the representative claim as if he were the deceased investor without prejudice to his own personal claim. Also, where a person claims for himself and as a trustee, he will be treated in respect of the latter claim as a different person. But where two or more persons in partnership have a joint beneficial claim, the claim will be treated as the claim of the partnership; otherwise each of them would be taken to have equal shares in the claim unless the contrary is proved to the satisfaction of the board. According to the rules, where an agent has a claim for one or more principals, the principal or principals are to be treated as having the claim, to the exclusion of the agent.

THE NATION FRIDAY, AUGUST 29, 2014

THE NATION

BUSINESS BRANDS & MARKETING

e-mail: adedejiademigbuji@yahoo.com /mobile line: 08131075667

A marketing tool in their hands Corporate event sponsorship has become a tool for promoting firms and their products. At the just-concluded Osun-Osogbo Festival, alcoholic beverage manufacturers promoted their low premium products targeted at low-end markets. ADEDEJI ADEMIGBUJI reports.

OR the people of Osogbo, in Osun State, the month of August is very symbolic. It is a month of celebration, traditional cleansing of the city and cultural reunion of its people with their ancestors and founders of the Osogbo Kingdom. Yearly, the Osun-Osogbo, a traditional festival unique to the town, has proved to be a rallying point for both residents and the sons and daughters of the town in the diaspora. Besides, seven years ago, the festival received a further boost with its elevation to the status of World Heritage site by UNESCO, attracting tourists globally. With the international status of the festival comes huge business opportunities for both individual and corporate bodies, as well as various sponsorship opportunities for the event. It is, therefore, not surprising to find several organisations falling over themselves to exploit the week-long OsunOsogbo celebration to the advantage of their product or brand. The just concluded edition of the festival was not an exception, as it enjoyed greater sponsorship than previous editions from several organisations. Though many brands are yet to feel the significance of the festival in building their brand, however, operators in the alcoholic beverage sector now have a better understanding of the potentials for their products, especially in the low-end markets. One company that is taking good advantage of this is Nigerian Breweries (NB). The firm is capitalising on the inherent opportunities offered by the festival to build a sustainable brand awareness in the Southwest regional market for its Goldberg Beer brand. With this, NB may have strategically positioned its Goldberg beer to eat into the market share of this region in a market where Trophy Larger beer from the staple of International Distilleries, has held sway as leader. However, with the struggle for the regional market, especially in the low premium beer segment becoming more intense between NB and International Distilleries, findings by The Nation revealed that the NB is building up a war chest to further take over more market share. Trophy beer, which is also growing in brand equity in the region, also enjoys the financial backing of SABMILLER, a South African firm, which just acquired International Distilleries, the producers of Trophy beer. The effect of this acquisition is that the brand has become more popular and visible as seen in its demand across various bars visited in some Southwest states. “I have personally observed that Goldberg’s involvement with the festival this year hss actually taken the long-standing support from Nigerian Breweries Plc. to a new level with their activities. A look around the palace today tells me they are ready to do some outstanding things this year and I think that is quite good for the brand,” said the Araba of Osogboland, Chief Ifayemi Elebuibon. He is of the opinion that the festival has provided a viable platform for the Goldberg brand, consider-

• Spectators/worshippers at the Osun-Osogbo Festival sponsored by NB’s Goldberg brand. (Insert: Goldberg endorsement).

ing the sales recorded at the festival. From his observations, Elebuibon said Goldberg appears to be gaining more market share around Osogbo town and its precincts, especially since the NB began to actively associate with the festival. Said he: “I noticed that a lot of beer consumers around here have switched to Goldberg since they started sponsoring the OsunOsogbo Festival. The reason is simple; anybody or corporate organisation that shows interest in what the people are passionate about will gain the people’s loyalty. Osun-Osogbo is one thing Osogbo people are passionate about.” In a similar vein, Goldberg brand manager, Mr. Mfon Bassey, described the brand as one that identifies and celebrates the cultural/ traditional values of the people. “The aspirations and passions of our consumer are of importance to the Goldberg brand. The Osun Oshogbo Festival is the encapsulation of passion, aspirations, cultural and traditional values of not just the Osogbo people but the entire western Nigeria. It is about the traditions and cultural heritage of

Osogbo people which they hold in high esteem. The festival, therefore, is a veritable platform for the brand to connect with the consumers in the region through their traditional values,” he affirmed. Also, the Managing Director, INFOGEM Ltd, the official consultants for the festival, Mr. Ayo Olumoko, said the corporate presence brought by Goldberg to this year’s edition of the festival is unparalled. “In the 26 years of Nigerian Breweries’ sponsorship of this festival, I have not seen the level of corporate presence that Goldberg is bringing to the festival this year. Their branding is unprecedented. Their presence is practically swallowing those of the other stakeholders. People around here are quite impressed with what they are doing,” he said, adding that the sponsorship of the festival by the brand has increased and it has become a stirred competition. Not long ago, NB hosted its key distributors as well as selected stakeholders from the South West to the re-launch of its Goldberg premium lager beer in the city of Ibadan; the event served as a formal introduction of the

repackaged Goldberg beer. The marketing director of Nigerian Breweries, Mr. Walter Drenth, gave an insight into why Goldberg is targeted at the low premium market consumers. “A lot of our consumers who desire high quality premium lager beer who cannot afford the likes of Heineken, Star or Gulder lager beer now have Goldberg, a premium beer with excellent bottle look, stamped with a crest quality, now brewed under the supervision of Nigerian Breweries Plc.” Analysts at Financial Derivatives Company suggested in a recent report that beer market generally witnessed a decline of about 10 per cent in 2013 on the back of increased pressure on flexible income resulting from high cost of living, and heightened security concerns in certain parts of the country which has added pressure on distribution and cost of commodities thereby restricting beer consumption to safe locations, among other factors. This, experts say, may work for the new brands to survive in the south west market. For now, the three big operators in Nigeria’s beer sector, which are

‘I have personally observed that Goldberg’s involvement with the festival this year has actually taken the longstanding support from Nigerian Breweries Plc. to a new level with their activities. A look around the palace today tells me they are ready to do some outstanding things this year and I think that is quite good for the brand’

among the biggest global operators in the sector are on their wits end to ensure that they maintain, if not improve on, their market share. Nigerian Breweries Plc, Guinness Nigeria Plc and SAB Miller are making sure that they supply enough of their various brands. Apparently, Beer is a very big business in Nigeria, and it is growing all the time. It is said to have been expanding at 10 per cent per annum for some time now. The average per capita beer consumption is still only 10 litres a year, a sixth of the rate in South Africa, meaning the potential for growth remains huge, especially given that Nigeria has a population of about 170 million people. As the brand waits to benefit from the sponsorship of the festival, the structure of the market share still give the maker of the brand an edge as the market leaders opportunity to harness its fortunes to challenge any threat to his various product categories across the country. According to Financial Derivatives Report, Heineken controls 71 per cent of the Nigerian market share through its subsidiaries, Nigerian Breweries and Consolidated Breweries with Nigerian Breweries Plc (NB Plc) having 61 per cent market share and Consolidated Breweries with a 10 per cent market share; Diageo has a 17 per cent market share through its stake in Guinness Nigeria. South African Breweries Miller (SABM) is a more recent entrant to the market and has a growing but very significant stake in the industry but expert feels it will be a tall dream for the brand to edge a brand from the market leader. NB Plc has the largest capacity and coverage, with about eight breweries located across the country, (estimated to have total annual capacity of 13.5mn hl). Guinness operates four breweries (total annual of 7.5mn hl by 2014 due to on-going capacity expansion). SABM has built up its capacity (by acquisition) to approximately 1.8mn hl, which includes Pabod Breweries in Port Harcourt, International Breweries in Ilesa and Onitsha. The Osun-Osogbo Festival is a two-week long programme. It starts with the traditional cleansing of the town called ‘Iwopopo’, which is followed in three days by the lighting of the 500-year-old sixteen-point lamp called ‘Ina Olojumerindinlogun’. Chief Elebuibon, who is also a top member, Advisory Committee for the Osun Osogbo Festival, said in the last hundred years, the festival never had sponsors while the little financial support coming from government has not been enough. He told The Nation that with the growing popularity of the festival across the globe and the huge number of spectators, visitors, media coverage enjoyed by the festival; it has become a platform for brand promotion and brand awareness optimisation. “We are amazed by the number of sponsors coming to talk to us and it is growing day by day,” he said. And just as the festival grows, so may the market share of the sponsors continue to grow, a situation that will continually ignite competition.

THE NATION FRIDAY, AUGUST 29, 2014

Brandnews

Seaman leverages on TVC APCON is not weak, says Registrar to sustain centenary status T F OR every brand, there is a life cycle. A product that is wellconceptualised must pass through the these stages - introduction, growth and decline. Thus, for a brand that has existed for a century in a country such as Nigeria, it should be a matter for celebration considering that many old brands have gone off the shelf. To stay afloat, some consumer brands had ensured that they introduced innovations, which helped to enhance value and communicate such through the right medium to its consumers. Yet, for a brand that is largely consumed by a highly segmented market where style and culture remain the norm in a highly competitive market category, sustaining a brand equity among consumers using both value creation, rejigging, brand activation and media campaign across all platforms such as TV, radio and press remains a magic. Seaman’s Schnapps, a premium spirit from the stables of Grand Oak Limited, has celebrated a hundred years of coasting in the market with an activation that is centered on Nigeria’s centenary. As a result, the brand handler also launched a television commercial to reward consumers in other to

Stories by Adedeji Ademigbuji

sustain its equity and woo new consumer. While celebrating the country’s centenary at Oregun in Lagos, the brand recalls with nostalgia some events about Nigeria to activate the brands new packaging and television commercial. The activation brought back excitement of Nigeria’s old school fashion style, lifestyles and some other characteristics that defined Nigeria’s good olddays across all ethnic groups, their characters during pre and post colonial era. With a new TVC and Online campaign, the Seaman Schnapps brand handlers are looking beyond the old market segment to reach a new generation of consumers who had been inundated with a lot of foreign wines that seem not to understand the essence of blessing which the Seaman brand become known for. As a result, the new TVC launched by Grand Oak during their Centenary Pack Launch is aimed at encouraging consumers to watch the one-minute advert and answer questions for a chance to win a recharge card. The event served as a platform for the brand recognition as a prayer drink and its continued desire to see Nigeria experience the tranquility

it enjoyed in the past. On the objective of the event, Seaman’s General Manager, Marketing, Brajesh Kumar, said the promo was aimed at encouraging youths to watch TVC, which conveys the importance of appreciating tradition and valuing cultures that have been laid down by elders of past years. “Before now, Our TVCs had focused on Seaman’s Schnapps celebrating notable events that were culturally inclined but with this new TVC, Seaman’s is encouraging the youths to keep the heritage and tradition of the elders,” he said. To be a part of the promo, participants must visit the Seaman’s Schnapps Facebook page, watch the TVC and answer questions posted on the page even as they say their own special prayer for Nigeria on the comment section to win free airtime. Grand Oak Ltd will be rewarding the first 50 comments with airtime on all networks. To further capture the market, the maker of Seaman have included in their kitty some other spirit drinks, such as Calypso Coconut Liqueur, Dark Sailor Rum, Regal Dry Gin, Lords Dry Gin, Bacchus Tonic Wine, and the Cool Twista Range to deepen their command of the spirit drink market.

HE Registrar/Chief Executive Officer of Advertising Practitioners Council of Nigeria, Garba Bello Kankarofi, has decried criticisms that it does not punish offenders of the advertising code. Over the years, the council has been described as a toothless bulldog for not wielding the big stick against offenders. However, Kankarofi denies the allegation. Rather, he said the council was praised for dealing with erring practitioners, such that it is being accused of highhandedness. “The nature of regulation is such

that while some people believe you are not doing enough, others shout that you are overbearing. The point however, is that we adopt a strategy of constructive engagement to secure compliance and only resort to strict enforcement when we perceive a recalcitrant disposition. Our aim is to correct errant behaviour and secure compliance, not necessarily to punish,” he said. He added: “Only persons listed in the Register of Advertising Practitioners published by APCON and duly gazetted are permitted by law to engage in advertising practice in Nigeria.”

#madeofblack campaign unveiled

UINNESS is set to take over the airwave with a new campaign with an hash tag #madeofblack to support its brand promotion for its iconic premium brand, Guiness Stout. Unveiling the campaign during the week, the brand managers said the campaign, #madeofblack, is part of the global Guinness Made of More campaign. The purpose of the campaign, according to Guinness , is to celebrate individuals across Nigeria who share the #madeofblack attitude, bold and cannot be contained. Expected to become a hit within the marketing communication industry, #madeofblack is positioned to be a total take over on popular TV station, The action-packed, first of its kind #madeofblack takeover showcased guest appearances from the cast of the dramatic new commercial for the campaign. Speaking at the launch, the Managing Director/Chief Executive, Guinness Nigeria Mr. Seni Adetu, Plc explained the idea behind the made of black campaign: “#madeofblack is part of the global Guinness Made of More campaign. Guinness embodies the mindset of Nigerians who are not afraid to express themselves and who are carving their own path in life. It is an iconic beer that has

By Alvin Afadama

the darkest liquid, but the brightest flavours.” The #madeofblack campaign celebrates for the TV commercial is led by famous rap sensation, Phyno, and they were unveiled at MTV Base studio as the celebrities signed up for the Guinness campaign. Phyno and other such as Olamide & Eva expressed why black is more than just a colour. The cast told their #madeofblack stories in short “Selfie” videos available online. Viewing and listening to their experiences, consumers are expected to be motivated to achieve great exploits. “Guinness is celebrating individuals across Nigeria who share the #madeofblack attitude. We are asking real people who have a boldness that cannot be contained, to join the movement and tell us what they are made of at www.madeofblack.com. I am made of passion, I am #madeofblack, what are you made of? Share the attitude. Leave your mark” Phyno challenged. Explaining the purpose of the campaign, Head, Consumer Planning and Research, Guinness Nigeria Plc Ms. Tayo Salami, stated that the #madeofblack campaign will showcase a cross section of real people and the true stories behind them.

Coke Studio II kicks off today

• Old school dress on display during Seaman’s TVC Launch/Centenary celebration.

BATN tackles anti-tobacco groups

RITISH American Tobacco Nigeria (BATN) Limited has restated its commitment to the implementation of the Lagos State Public Place Smoking Law, which came into effect last week. The firm said it would continue to support its key stakeholders to drive a fully compliant and wellregulated sector. The statement came against the backdrop of a reaction to BATN’s recent sensitisation of officers of the Lagos State Police Command on the Lagos State Public Place Smoking Law. The firm said it was surprised that a Lagos-based non-governmental organisation (NGO) would fault the sensitisation of enforcement agents on the new Lagos Public Smoking law.

The Area Director, Corporate and Regulatory Affairs, BAT West Africa, Freddy Messanvi, said the firm believes that this was a task which such NGOs should spearhead. He said help was needed from NGOs and other stakeholders to boost the understanding and appreciation of the law and not engage in industry de-normalisation tactics. Other issues requiring the attention of stakeholders include stemming the tide of illegal trade in the sector and using the funding that the NGOs get from their international partners to build the capacity of agencies who work on tobacco control to ensure that there is compliance with the regulations. He said engagement with stakeholders, such as the sensitisation of officers of the Ni-

geria Police in Lagos was held in accordance with the World Health Organisation’s Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, FCTC, Article 5.3. The Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA), charged with enforcing the Lagos State Public Place Smoking Law, had embarked on sensitising residents on the provisions of the law. A public hearing was held by the Joint Committee on Health and Justice of the House of Representatives. Stakeholders welcomed further regulation of the sector, charging the legislators to ensure that the law was balanced and enforceable. Pro-industry stakeholders at the event asked the law makers to ensure that there is a balance in whatever law that is passed.

EXCITEMENT is in the air as Season 2 of one of Africa’s mostanticipated music television series, Coke Studio, kicks off with a music concert at the main auditorium of the Lagos State University (LASU) today. Artistes billed to perform at the event include: Olamide ‘Baddo’, Flavour N’abania, Omawumi, Seyi Shay, Waje, Iyanya, Phyno, Chidinma, and Burna Boy. Apart from LASU, fans would experience the thrill in nine institutions: University of Benin (UNIBEN), (Rivers State University, Port Harcourt), Ibadan (University of Ibadan), Osun (University of Ife), Enugu (Enugu State University, Enugu), (Federal University of Technology, Owerri), (Abia State University); and (Cross Rivers State University, Calabar). On the rationale for engaging these artistes, the Brand Manager (Colas), Coca-Cola Nigeria, Femi Ashipa said: “Our decision to feature these artistes was spurred by our consumers’ request. These artistes are currently among the rave-of-themoment in the Nigerian entertainment industry.” According to him, the artistes will not only thrill the audience

with their latest songs, but will also perform with some aspiring artistes, who will be chosen from the audience. To qualify, an aspiring artiste is required to do a voice drop in a modern, well-equipped mobile studio set up on the Coke Studio tour bus as it moves around different locations in each city. The best voice drop will get a chance to perform alongside the star artistes during the concerts. Ashipa said the concerts and the dream opportunity for aspiring music artistes are among the new elements that have been introduced in Coke Studio Season 2 to dial up the experience for Coke’s consumers and other music fans. In addition, Coke Studio will also retain its original element the recorded TV shows, which will be telecast beginning on September 13 on AIT Network, MTV Base, HipTV, NIGEZIE, Sound City and Trace Urban TV. The show is made up of eight 45-minute shows. Each episode will showcase unexpected fusions by various groups of artiste to create a unique sound. The show will also provide viewers with behind-the-scenes footage of the artistes’ interactions and experiences on the set.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 29 2014

THE NATION

BUSINESS SHOPPING

E-mail: toniaitose@gmail.com

Sms : 07035302326 Website:- http://www.thenationonlineng.net

Beyond being a business complex, shopping malls are gradually becoming an arena for social networking, especially among the upwardly mobile and fun seeking youths. TONIA ‘DIYAN writes.

•Youths attending a programme in a Mall

Malls are big social network avenue T

HE potentials and opportunities in the Nigerian business space have continued to attract investments from all climes. With this has come modernization of the business arena, as businesses are now gradually being conducted in very conducive atmosphere. One venue that has attracted Nigerians, especially the youth, is the numerous shopping malls that now litter the country’s market place. From the Palms Shopping Mall, in Lagos, to Kwara Mall, Illorin, Nigerians have continued to throng these edifices. However, it has become clear that not every visitor to these malls are shoppers. A recent survey by The Nation has revealed that the malls have become a convenient meeting point for a growing number of Nigerians, who have made the shopping malls a place to tidy up their business dealings. Thomas, a middle aged Nigerian, though has lived abroad for over a decade, he recalled with nostalgic feelings, the state of the few existent malls in the country in his formative years. “When shopping malls newly came into existence in this country, they could be likened to stand alone and high street stores,” he said. Going by his recap of the years back, Thomas’ memory obviously didn’t fail him. That was the era when malls or stores like Leventis, UTC and Kingsway, held the Nigerian market in awe wonder. Though back then a shopping mall in the real sense of it may never have been established, a pseudo mall existed in select areas of Lagos, with the few modern stores positioned side-by-side to form a fairly long chain of stores. The stores were mainly outlets for selling groceries and other household items, with buyers doing their purchases and walking away. But now, the situation has changed. Today’s shopping malls are built with

provision for socialising or bringing people together to benefit from themselves and the stores. Besides, the ultra modern shopping facilities are built with unique and distinctive features fitted with innovative benefits to shoppers, especially the youth. The presence of top international brands, who take up spaces at such malls, has also contributed to the modernization of the mall concept. These, and more, has made Thomas come to terms with the fact that malls are not only for shopping, but that it extends to being a place of fun. By extension, this has made it possible for youths, especially, to have a meeting point, as it now provides them an avenue for social networking where this category of Nigerians share transforming experiences among themselves, meet with their pairs for interactions and also exchange business ideas in a relaxed environment. Apart from the new vista opened up by the malls, such complex can now pass for a tourist attraction centre, boosting the country’s revenue generation, especially on the side of value added tax (VAT). For instance, on a visit to a popular Lagos mall, Bola Ogunlusi, an Ibadan based entrepreneur, was able to establish a contact that eventually opened her business up to bigger market opportunities. Recalling how it all started, Ogunlusi said after her shopping spree at the mall, she opted to have a drink in one of the relaxation spots within the complex. And there, from a casual interaction with another visitor, she got a break into a niche market for her batik attire. “Since that my encounter at the mall, it has been good business for me all the way,” she told this reporter. Attraction According to a centre manger in a Lagos mall, Feyi Shoyinka, the attraction to shop-

ping in the mall is the low pricing regime embraced by retail outlets in the mall. “Pricing is the main attraction here and I think the mall’s retailers or tenants have keyed into this,” he said, adding that retailers, especially the foreign ones, know the market and the right competitive price- a factor that has ensured their continued survival in the market place. He revealed that shopping malls, owing to the volume of business transactions that go on there, has advantage over stand alone and high street stores; hence, the improved revenue enjoyed by the space owners in the malls. “People do not only come to do one thing, but they come to do a variety of things at shopping malls. They come on shopping trips and stay all day with their families having meals, seeing movies, window shopping, doing cloth shopping or using the mall’s WiFi to do online shopping,” he explained. Haven said all these, findings has it that, the primary motive of these malls is to make huge profit amid all that they have to offer. Their management therefore with the consciousness that the consumer’s main spend driver is price, encourage tenant to be use to constant price slash and promotional package which is capable of keeping old customers and attracting new ones. From observations, tenants at these malls are doing pretty well; they store merchandise of varieties and mix of customers wants. If a retailer stores insufficient merchandise, he/she won’t meet up to the mall standard. The Nation Shopping learnt that demographic researches are carried out before malls are opened. Improving Customer experience Retail shopping is about convenience, comfort, security and providing a one top experience for shoppers. Malls offer unique experiences in the sense that they are more

like community centers with a large variety of business merchandise. From time to time, the mall looks at what it can improve on, what it should change and add. For instance, at some point, the management of the malls conducted a survey to sample the expectations of its customers. The survey covered areas like the type of goods expected to be seen in the malls, and their choice of products. Everything is chosen according to the merchandise requirement of the market place. Besides, the introduction of the cashless policy regime led the mall managers to install ATMs, just as the mall also keyed into technology by providing point of sale (PoS) machines to encourage the policy. However, mall operators say five years from this time, they hope to see the regular London shopper staying and doing all their shopping in Nigeria. They promise to encourage such people to stay here and buy all that they need. Knowing that once the people know they can get the same quality stuffs here, Nigerians would stop going overseas to shop. Operators say they see the growing middle class holding a royalty towards shopping malls where they could come for their shopping most of the time and get whatever they want. According to operators, the malls have grown about 70 percent since their existence, which is a good indication. People stay longer in the mall. More people visit the mall on a daily basis, a lot more cars come in too. Retailers are doing better depending on how much marketing and advertising they can do for themselves. With the big population in Nigeria, there are lots of retail businesses that can still be boosted in terms of shopping malls. Because there are lots of people out there earning stable incomes and they want to go shopping.

Newspaper of the Year

AN EIGHT-PAGE PULLOUT ON THE SOUTHSOUTH STATES

•Uduaghan

ASAB A’S NIGHT ASABA

EBOLA VIR US VIRUS

ASABA, the Delta State capital, is full of fun at night. After the day’s work, many look forward to nightlife, especially they can ill afford the yearly luxury of vacations. The night is defined by drinks and women of easy virtues.

IS Rivers State set to conquer Ebola if it rears its head? The government and other stakeholders say yes, but a few who believe that sensitisation on the deadly disease, which has so far been confined to Lagos, started late and is not enough.

•PAGE 32

•A man in safety wear

FRIDAY, AUGUST 29, 2014

PAGE 29

BEY OND OIL BEYOND

•PAGE 33 •Agemonmen

DEACON Vincent Agemonmen is an industrialist, philanthropist and an evangelist. The chairman, Freedom Group of Companies was recently honoured by the Benson Idahosa University with a Doctorate Degree in Business Administration. His story is inspiring and a proof that hardwork pays. •PAGE 34

Cut from civilisation by water •Tales from Alison-Madueke’s Yanaka community

From Mike Odiegwu

NYTIME the glamorous Petroleum Minister, Mrs Diezani Allison-Madueke, wishes to visit her ancestral home in Yanaka, Yenagoa Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, she has to do it through a local canoe. There are no vehicles in Yanaka, a rustic and poor community lying close to the developing capital city. This is because there is no road to Yanaka. Also, there is no road to Belebebiri I and II, Omodubiri and Ekolo, the other impoverished communities that share boundaries with Yanaka. Perhaps, there would have been a road linking the communities to Yenagoa if a bridge had been constructed by the government. Only a water channel separates the communities from Yenagoa. Belebebiri, the first of the communities, is just a stone thrown from Yenagoa. It is located behind the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) and accessed through the popular Hospital Road in Yenagoa.

• Continued on pages 30 & 35

• YOU HAVE STORIES FOR US? PLEASE CONTACT US ON 07066954441 OR 08123521990

THE NATION FRIDAY, AUGUST 29, 2014

NIGER DELTA REPORT COVER

TalesfromAlison-Madueke’sYanakacommunity

Continued from page 29

YPICAL of a suffering and smiling condition, the people of the communities have devised a means to eke out a living from their adversities. Following the lack of a link bridge, canoe paddling is the common business and it is reserved for women alone. Women, mostly aged ones, own locally-made canoes and use them to cross people over to the river banks. Morning, especially on weekdays, is a busy period for the canoe paddlers. Like a typical rush hour, civil servants and other workers living in the communities, including owners of businesses in Yenagoa, besiege the Bebelebiri river bank to board canoes to the capital city. They also cluster the FMC axis of the bank while returning to their communities in the evening. The paddlers grapple with the water which on rare cases become turbulent as they struggle to sail their passenger-filled canoes safely to the river bank. Angelina Koki is one of the canoe paddlers. She is a 65-year-old widow and has been catering for her household with proceeds from the strenuous occupation. Sitting at the edge of her long canoe and forcing out a smile, she says: “I’m a ferry paddler, I work here everyday and we pull the paddle stick on this water until 2pm.” According to Koki, the business is organised with a roaster. While some women work from morning till afternoon, others take over till night. Koki goes home everyday with N1000 some days and N500 sometimes. “Sometimes we get N1000 and at other times, it’s N500. The boat can carry eight passengers at a time, and we collect N10 to and fro from each passenger. But, if it is a chatter, it becomes N50. “We most times do this so as to render assistance to the passengers but still we don’t get enough passengers. And it’s from this money I take care of my children, so there is no money because we buy garri with this money. “We get this money little by little and use it to pay for our children’s school fees. I don’t have any other husband again. I am a widow, so, I use this little money I get to fend for my family,” she says. Apart from her seven children whom Koki feeds, clothes and pays their school fees, the woman is a grandmother. “One of my daughters gave birth in my house so I automatically became the breadwinner of the

•MrsAlison-Madueke

home,” she said. On how she learnt canoe paddling, she said: “ I’m an Ijaw woman, swimming is in my blood. I started when I was small. That was how I found it easy in doing this job. Sometimes the water hyacinth which we call “lagua” covers the surface of the water. This problem makes paddling very difficult. Though she confesses disliking the job, she has no choice. She will readily abandon the job if she sees a better one. She believes she overworks herself for a little gain. “I need a job. I love to be a salary earner that is receiving salary at the end of the month because we work but we don’t see the money”, she laments. To Sarah Binipramine, her surname has enabled her to survive the hardship of canoe paddling. According to her, Binipramine when transliterated means “I’m not dying but I have long life”. In fact, she is determined to live longer despite the unfriendly nature of her environment. The 45-year-old woman laments that her lack of education forces her into her present business. “I did not

•An overview of Bebelebiri

•Koki (right) and Sarah on their canoes

go to school. I don’t have anything to do. That’s why I’m doing this business”, she says. Lamenting the hazards of her job, she adds: “This work is very tasking. We work under the rain and in the sun. Supposing I saw something else doing, I would have changed to another job.” Canoe paddling, according to her, is more difficult to cope with as a nursing mother. “It’s not easy if I must confess. I can’t say since I’m working, I won’t give birth. If it is possible to do so, I don’t really mind,” she laments. Binipramine is not also happy with the little money each passenger pays for her service. Passengers to her are not in short supply. She says: “The problem is that the payment is very little because N10 is what we collect when the passengers are complete in the boat but if not we collect N50.” Like Koki, Binipramine knows her trade by virtue of her tribe. “I came from the water and as a typical Ijaw woman, it’s our nature to learn how to swim and also pull a boat from our

childhood. I didn’t learn it from anyone. I grew up with it”, she says. Apart from Koki and Binipramine, paddling canoe puts food on the table of Mrs. Agnes Tombra who since her childhood has known aquatic life. Tombra proudly identifies herself as a boat rider, saying: “This is what I do to sustain my family.” She further explains: “I was given birth to in this community. I grew up here. In fact, I and my family reside here. Yenegoa is very close to me but I choose to remain here since I am not educated. “This is the only job an uneducated person like me can get but if the government can give me other job, I wil be forever grateful”. In fact, paddling canoes has some negative impacts on the health of the women. Tombra says the occupation has forced her to age faster. “I was younger than this initially but since I have to do this for the sake of my family, l am becoming older day by day. It has also affected my health having regular body aches. “Coming in contact with cold wa-

ter everyday affects the blood. So, this is also an issue. Secondly, the money we get from this is very small. It is not encouraging but I have no option because am not educated,”she says.

Jobs for mothers alone The job of crossing passengers to the river banks through canoes is done only by women. In fact, not just women but mothers. It has become a taboo for men to be found in the midst of women doing similar job. Indeed, canoe paddling in Belebebiri is a custom culturally reserved for mothers. It is so by convention. The men are allowed to drive the speedboats. The women belong to a union and they are expected to register before joining the business. Everybody confirms it. Koki says it is neither a job for men nor for boys. “The business is solely for women because there is a boat paddler union so if you pay you enter so if you meet the head of this water side, you register and become a member. “Young boys cannot do this because it’s very difficult to row. The union is

only meant for women. Since it is meant for mothers, men are not allowed into the union, rather, they drive the speedboat”, she explains. Also, Binipramine, a mother of four children, whose husband is jobless, admits that men are not allowed to do the business. “I feed my four children and husband with this. This job is solely meant for women since it is part of our tradition. Men must not be found in women business,” she says.

Communities demand for a bridge Despite exploiting an opportunity afforded by lack of a bridge to make a living, the women and members of the communities are not comfortable with the development. They need a bridge to bring development to their communities. The communities are far from development despite their closeness to the state capital. They are more like settlements, rustic, outlandish and lacking basic amenities. Residents leave in hut-like houses in inclement

•Ewere

conditions especially when it rains. Following lack of bridge, residents who own vehicles park them in Yenagoa before crossing over to their communities. Tombra says she will be happy if the government decides to construct a bridge to link their communities. She recalls that the government promised to build a bridge in the area. “I will be very happy for the sake of my children and the community if government fulfills this long promise. It means there is hope for our children because this will bring good opportunities for our children and the community at large,” she says. Also, Cynthia Ozoro, who lives in the community, pleads with the government to link the communities with a bridge. She believes that a bridge is what the communities need to develop. Besides, Ozoro is not a good swimmer. She is always scared any time she travels on canoe. “The government should build a bridge across this community because this will bring about massive development. There will be job and every-

thing will be fine. “I am not a good swimmer. I am always scared when l am traveling on this water but I have to cross this water to meet my daily needs. “I am so scared mostly when l am carrying my baby. I have heard of so many casualties on this river but any time I travel I really thank God,” she says. She also believes that the women will find an alternative means of livelihood if eventually the bridge is constructed. “For the women what they are doing is like an employment because they use this in taking care of their family. “But if they cross this bridge now, they will look for an alternative. Government should please construct a bridge for us so that I and my family can survive,” she says. Speaking on the issues, the Chairman of Community Development Committee, Belebebiri II, Mr. Nicholas Ewere, says the communities are in dire need of development. He says: “These communities need

development. We are still in need of the government because their presence is not found anywhere around this area. We have other three communities that surround Belebebiri II. “All of them are still in the same level. In fact, we all are in need and desperately in need. We need grassroot development in every side. “This little water is demarcating us from Yenagoa. So, we are in need of a bridge. The only area we are begging the government is to do something; at least if this bridge is constructed we are okay.” He blames the woes of the community on lack of a short bridge. He says there are no schools, clinics and other basic amenities in the area. He admits that Allison-Madueke hails from Yanaka. “She is from Yanaka community. This place is just behind Belebebiri II. When you take a walk, it is not up to 25 minutes so we are all one because everybody from the other four communities go through this ‘bridgeless’ road,” she says. On whether Mrs alison-Madueke has

assisted the communities to alleviate their suffering, he says: “From my own understanding, I learnt that she is giving out this money for contracts but those who grab this money divert it into their own personal pockets. “I am not blaming her because she cannot be there and close her eyes seeing her people suffering. I just believe that she is doing something. The problem is the people she gives this money for this contract. “But she should be mindful when giving money. She should give this money to a successful contractor. “I am using this opportunity to let the government know that what is happening in this place is not supposed to be of this nature because in this village we have civil servants, military people and in the morning when these peole will be going to work, they meet hazard endangering there lives. “Some in the cause of crossing to the other side, at times their canoes capsize and we record many casualties every year. So, if there is a bridge, such things won’t happen.”

• PORT HARCOURT: Director, Legal Services, Nigerian Shippers' Council, Mr Samuel Vongtau (left) and President, Rivers/ Bayelsa Shippers Association, Mr Ofon Udofia (middle) at an interactive meeting with members of Rivers/Bayelsa Shippers Association in Port Harcourt. PHOTO: NAN

ASABA: Delta State Information Commissioner Chike Ogeah (right) and his Commerce and Industry counterpart, Dr. Kingsley •ASABA: Emu during the interdenominational thanksgiving service to mark Delta State’s 23rd anniversary in Asaba.

• ONNE: Operations and Authorities Manager, Intels Onne, Mr Marko Miscovic (left); Executive Secretary, Nigerian Shippers' Council, Mr Hassan Bello (middle) and Commercial Manager, Intels Onne, Mr Sunny Ijere during Bello's visit to Intels Onne in Rivers State. PHOTO: NAN

THE NATION FRIDAY, AUGUST 29, 2014

NIGER DELTA REPORT FEATURE

Rivers, scrap dealers fight over 'rubbish'

Rivers State government and Scrap Dealers are quarrelling over the right to remove discarded materials from refuse dump sites that are almost overtaking some roads in Port Harcourt, the state capital, writes CLARICE AZUATALAM.

UMPSITES litter Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital. Until March 25, there was no dispute over who has the right to remove scraps from these dumpsites. That has changed with the creation of the Task Force on Removal of Scrap Metals (TRSM). The agency claims the right to control and regulate those who remove scraps from dumpsites, a development which has pitched it against members of the Blessed Scrap Metal Dealers Association (BSMDA) in Mile 3, Port Harcourt. They say their association is registered and, therefore, no government agency has authority over its activities. The task force has imposed stringent conditions on the scrap dealers. In a document titled: Scrap Metals Dealer/ Vendor to the scrap dealers association in which they were asked to purchase an application form for N5,000, the taskforce stipulated three categories for registration. They are: Category A: Major Scrap Metals Dealers/Merchant, to register with N250, 000; Category B: Scrap Metals Vendor/ Consultant/Scrap Metals Spare Parts Dealers, to register with N150, 000; and Category C: Scrap Metal Hawkers, to register with N50, 000. The conditions attached for the return of the application form are: two passport photographs; evidence of previous supply of scraps job done; tax clearance certificate for the past three years; evidence of payment for registration form and other necessary particulars. The document, which was attached to a Demand Notice signed by the Chairman, TRSM, Chief Solomon Chuku, also gave the scrap dealers a seven days ultimatum to process their application with the taskforce in Rivers State Ministry of Environment. The demand notice, which was not dated, inspired repeated visits from operatives of the taskforce to the premises of scrap dealers in Mile

•Amaechi

Uncomfortable with the demands of the taskforce, the scrap dealers briefed their lawyer, Mr Cosmas Enweluzo, who petitioned the Commissioner of Environment and the Commissioner of Police, Tunde Ogunsakin. Later, about 13 members of the scrap dealers were arrested by the police at their business premises, on Abuja By-pass, at Mile 3 Area of Port Harcourt for reasons they claimed they did not know. The scrap dealers also claimed that the TRSM impounded two trucks belonging to their members and the trucks were parked at the Rivers State Dump Site in Eliozu, Port Harcourt operated by the taskforce. The Chairman of the Blessed Scrap Dealers Association, Mr, Ernest Duru, told the Niger Delta Report that most of those arrested were customers. Although all the 13 people arrested by the police were later released on bail,

•CP Ogunsakin

July 26, one of those arrested, a driver, was not so lucky. Although he was released, the particulars of the vehicle he drove to the premises of Blessed Scrap Dealers were withheld by the police who insisted that the particulars would only be released if Duru makes a personal appearance at the Police Monitoring Unit to see the commander. Though Duru said he did not know why his customers were arrested but Chuku said they were arrested in connection with an incident that took place at the Eliozu Dump site when some persons forcibly entered the place, beat up the security man on duty; drove off with the two trucks impounded by operatives of the taskforce as well as carting away 50 old car batteries. Chuku said: "They had threatened our men many times. They have threatened to elicit the assistance of 'area boys' to chase away our officers to prevent them from carrying out their lawful duties.

We are a government agency and we will use the instrumentality of the law to discharge our duty." The Chairman of NASWDEN, Comrade Anayo Ogbu and the Public Relations Officer, Comrade Rufus Agubama, stated that "some people purporting to be scrap dealers in Rivers State who broke into the premises of Rives State Ministry of Environment over the weekend and forcibly removed some items belonging to the Rivers State government are not members of NASWDEN", adding that "the position of NASWDEN Rivers State council has been and will remain that all challenges to its' corporate existence will be fought by due process of law." Enweluzo has petitioned the Rivers State Commissioner of Environment, Dr. Nyema Weli. He copied Governor Rotimi Amaechi and the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice,

Worgu Boms. He also copied Ogunsakin, the Minister of Police Affairs and the Inspector General of Police. Enweluzo stated that the scrap dealers "are into the business of gathering of scrap materials which include metal scrap and aluminum materials out of the streets where they are littered and evacuate them to places where some are thrown away and the useful ones and/or transformed into valuable metal sheets and rods." Referring to the Demand Notice which his clients were served, Enweluzo said it was undated and served on July 1, by persons who identified themselves as operatives of TRSM. Just barely two days after his clients were served the notice, the said taskforce started "harassing, arresting and impounding the goods and trucks of members of clients as well as arresting them to police stations where huge sums of money are extorted from them before they are released". He went on: "Of particular interest, among other incidences of intimidation and harassment is the one that occurred on July 3, when two of our clients' members, Basil Oguegbu and Peter Arihalam bought some scrap materials and loaded same in a Vanagon Truck. On their way to their dump site at Mile 3, Diobu, Port Harcourt, they were accosted by some men in company of some policemen and were arrested alongside two of their loaders and their truck impounded and taken away to somewhere at a dump site at Eliozu, Obio/ Akpor Local Government Area, where same is still being detained". Enweluzo added: "The same fate also befell another of our clients' members, Ifeanyi Ezeji, whose fork-light machine which he uses in loading and offloading scrap materials was impounded on July 4, 2014, by the same men of the Tax Force with the aid

of some men of the Nigeria Police Force. "We know that no good government the world over would want to deny its citizen the dynamics of life to wit: Life, Liberty and Property which the government on its own cannot solely provide for the people as a result of numerous needs calling for attention at any given point in time. Thus, every reasonable government encourages its citizens to engage in meaningful project geared towards personal sustenance and survival. The action of the Taskforce- to say the least - is a direct antithesis of life, liberty and property which is the hallmark of every democratic society and setting." Enweluzo added that this was being carried out by "the unlawful and malicious use of men of the Nigeria Police Force by persons parading themselves as TSRM in Rivers State". Ogunsakin denied the deployment of policemen to accompany TRSM operatives during their monitoring operations. The CP promised to contact the area commander of MOPOL 19, Port Harcourt, to find out if he had approved the deployment of armed mobile policemen to the TRSM. In his words: "I have not approved the deployment of our men to accompany any taskforce. I have resisted repeated pleas from the Rivers State Traffic Management Agency (TIMARIV), because I am aware that such opportunity can be exploited to perpetrate all sorts of atrocities." Chuku said he was surprised at the claim of the CP. Enweluzo is expressing regrets that he cannot take the matter to court to seek redress for his clients because of the on-going strike by judicial workers. For Chuku, dialogue is the way out "because government needs to regulate what transpires within its jurisdiction".

Industrialisation of Akwa Ibom my priority, says Ekere

HE immediate past Deputy Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Nsima Ekere, has said the massive industrialisation of the state and sustainable people's development will be his priority if elected governor. Ekere spoke after consultations with some Ibibio traditional rulers and the foremost socio-cultural and ethnic nationality groups in Ibibioland and Annangland. At each stop, Ekere was prayed for, blessed and given the nod to vie for the governorship ticket of the Peoples' Democratic Party (PDP) by Uyio Ikpaisong Ibibio, which comprises of nine of the 14 Paramount Rulers in Ibibioland, Akwa Esop Imaisong Ibibio and Afe Annang. Ekere emphasized his hu-

From Kazeem Ibrahym, Uyo

man development plan through a ready-made industrialisation blueprint for the state which, according to him, was designed to build on the massive infrastructure put in place by Governor Godswill Akpabio. His words: "Governor Akpabio, my friend and brother, has put in place world-class infrastructure. But we must, as a necessity, begin to build the people." During his visit to Uyio Ikpaisiong Ibibio-in-Council in Etinan, the Uyio Ikpaisong and Paramount Ruler of Etinan Local Government Area, Edidem Ime Dickson Umoette, who led the prayer and blessing session,

likened Ekere to the Biblical Moses who was ejected from Pharaoh's palace so that God's plan in his life could be fulfilled and lauded his industrialisation programme for the state. The Paramount Ruler of Ibiono Ibom Local Government Area, Okuku Ime Udousoro Inyang, prayed for Ekere's success to come soon and advised him to remember the Ibibio race when he becomes governor. Ntisong Ibibio III, Obong Essien Ekidem, who leads Akwa Esop Imaisong Ibibio, told Ekere, during a consultation visit to the group in Uyo, that he was impressed by the former Deputy Governor's wisdom and experience in both the private and public sectors and prayed God to bless him and open doors for him in the gubernatorial race.

Otuekong Sunny Jackson Udoh and Chief Ukata Akpan, who also spoke for the group, lauded Mr.Ekere's qualities and called for free and fair PDP primaries. Itai Afe Annang III, Okuku Pius Effiong Eside IV, who also received Ekere and his mammoth team of elders, youths and women in Essien Udim, said Annang people were willing to stand by him as a knowledgeable man capable of building on Governor Godswill Akpabio's achievements and legacy. He praised Ekere for not disrespecting the person and office of governor despite his resignation, nearly two years ago, and reasoned that the former Deputy Governor's exit was divine as God had a better plan for him.

‘

Governor Akpabio, my friend and brother, has put in place world-class infrastructure. But we must, as a necessity, begin to build the people

‘

•Ekere

THE NATION FRIDAY, AUGUST 29, 2014

NIGER DELTA REPORT FEATURE

Asaba’s night of music, fun and girls

For many in most cities, nightlife provides opportunities to unwind after the day’s work, especially as the average Nigerian can ill afford the yearly luxury of vacations. OKUNGBOWA AIWERIE captures the essence of nightlife in Asaba, the Delta State capital and the residents’ insatiable appetite for fun

Doubts over Rivers’ readiness to battle Ebola

•Some health workers at UPTH awareness campaign

I •A typical scene at Emeka Place

•A male and his female companion at Emeka Place

•A commercial sex worker doing business in Asaba

•Revellers at an out-door bar

SABA, the Delta State capital, is a picturesque city overlooking the River Niger. Though it bears the appellation of a civil service town, there is more to the modest city than meets the eye. True, it lacks the mercantile verve of its more illustrious eastern neighbor, Onitsha or the ostentation of faraway oil-rich Warri, Asaba compensates with a vibrant social life that expresses the hedonistic credentials of the average local. For the first timer, nightlife is an enthralling kaleidoscope of experience, as fun spots abound ranging from an assortment of simple out-door drinking pubs and eateries to the exclusive and prestigious highbrow hotels that dot its landscape. Green House, located on the popular Nnebisi Road, is typical of such outdoor entertainment spots. It is a cramped, haphazardly constructed corrugated zinc and wooden affair, built to serve a utilitarian purpose than any ambitious aestheticism. Littering the available space are plastic chairs and tables adorned with a variety of alcoholic beverages. Fun seekers sit in groups of varying sizes enjoying themselves. Perched on huge wooden supports, two giant loudspeakers blare music at elevated decibels to the delight of revelers. To the right, half a dozen habitués sway rhythmically to raunchy music, egged on by a bare-chested disc jockey. The attention of other guests is riveted on a huge screen showing English premiers-ship soccer. Yet others sit in darkened corners in compromising positions or simply watch the unfolding spectacle before them. Outdoor entertainment in the city, especially bars on Nnebisi Road has been boosted with the recently installed neon street lighting, thus creating a carnival atmosphere of some sort at nights. In the vicinity of Green House, as well as at other locations, outdoor bars have mushroomed with the resultant attraction to these spots of commercial sex workers from far and near. Determined to outdo each other, the biggest names in the brewing industry have cashed in on the thriving nightlife with promotional offerings that encourages drinking sprees amongst revelers. Linda Ekwy, a dazzling buxomly beauty, is the brain behind this pub.

NIGER DELTA REPORT FEATURE

•Another night scene at the popular Nnebisi road

•Another scene at Green House

She explains that the idea of the pub was originally her mothers`. According to her; Green House started over two decades ago with only two plastic tables and eight chairs. Linda maintains that the biggest selling point of her business is the homemade fish and dried bush meat pepper-soup recipe on offer, adding that customers visits from far off Lagos and neighboring states to savor this delicacy. Pressed to reveal the recipe, she promptly reels out a list of items, but cautions that success depends on the technical expertise of the cook. She added that beyond the delicacies on offer, an unbroken bond of interpersonal relations with customers, such as a genuine interest in the welfare of customers has ensured a steady stream of clients to Green House.

Asked to comment on the activities of commercial sex workers in the neighborhood, she notes that since her clientele includes responsible folks out for a night outing, prostitutes are denied admittance except accompanied by a male guest. "Call girls are not allowed in here, except they come here with a man. We do not allow then to sit here because they are usually the cause of fights," she submits. Notwithstanding the spate of robbery incidents in the metropolis lately, business has not been negatively impacted. According to Linda, "we share a common fence with the "A" divisional police station. Asaba, so as long as you are at Green House security is not a problem". Further down Nnebisi road and di-

rectly opposite the prestigious Grand Hotel is a cluster of outdoor joints. Although not so well organised, it still commands a hefty crowd due to its lenient rules on commercial sex workers. Emeka`s place, the most visible amongst the quartet of bars replicates the self-same services provided at Green House. It goes a notch further by engaging the services of a two-man dance act that could pass as contortionists due to their uncanny ability to twist their bodies into strange and unnatural positions. This duo, known as "two-star show", though an aside, keeps the audience spellbound with their sheer energy and intricate dance routines. Because Emeka`s Place admits allcomers, it has the dubious image of

the red light district on Nnebisi Road. Real business for commercial sex workers commences as form 8.00pm till the wee hours. Emeka, an affable chap, is proprietor of the bar. He confesses that his business has experienced a boom these past few years, due mainly to patronage from the ladies of easy virtue that throng his bar. He admits to have abandoned his cloth retailing business in Lagos many years back to stake a claim in the more lucrative entertainment business in Asaba, a decision he claims he does not regret. Ameachi, 28 years, is an artisan in aluminum roofing business, and claims to be a regular visitor to the bar. For him, he swears his interest is confined solely to booze and not in the unholy pastime of soliciting sex.

But as if to give lie to his duplicitous comment, a coquettish cheeky tug by a young lady promptly sends him chasing after her, leaving this reporter nonplussed. In stark contrast to the boisterous and rowdy sessions at Green House and Emeka`s place is "De Grill," "De Grill" is owned by Ann Okafor, an Anglo- Nigeria lady. The main attraction of the joint is its grilled fish menu. Guests are allowed to choose live fish from a pond within its premises and then grilled by a chef. "De Grill" comes across as an elitist joint with cool background music serenading guests in a relaxed atmosphere. Mr. Mike Nwabuzor, a regular visitor to the joint, surmises that a combination of healthy fishmeal coupled with soft music has therapeutic value.

A further attraction to guests who visit "De Grill" must be its zero tolerance for commercial sex workers and the very young but often obstreperous customers. As a matter of deliberate policy, prices of alcoholic beverages are a bit steep and television is not allowed at "De Grill", thus discouraging patronage from unwanted guests. Uptown, a group of outdoor bars have sprung up. These new bars are classier and purpose built with every bit of comfort for revelers. Since these upscale bars offer competitive pricing in alcoholic beverages and food, many low income earners throng them. Amongst these group includes Tunja Bar, Opera Lounge, Westpoint, Sun city,One Side, Y2K and a host of others.

S Rivers State set to conquer Ebola if it rears its head? The government and other stakeholders say yes, but a few believe that sensitisation on the deadly disease, which has so far been confined to Lagos, started late and is not enough. Rivers State Commissioner for Health Dr. Sampson Parker said the state invited doctors from Emory University Hospital in Atlanta, Georgia, United States to train health workers on how to handle likely Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) cases. Dr. Parker said the Rotimi Amaechi administration was being proactive because of the state’s proximity to Liberia, Guinea, Sierra Leone and other countries affected by the deadly disease, especially by sea. “We want to assure Rivers people that the government, which effectively handled the outbreak of the Lassa fever, will also tackle the Ebola Virus Disease (EVD). Our health workers have been kitted to handle the EVD, even though no case has been reported.” But some medical experts have argued that the government responded too slowly on the Ebola virus unlike other state in the federation. “It was just last week that the ministry of health started making noise about the Ebola case, now they have brought in foreign doctors, saying they are ready to fight Ebola. But the question is: what has state government done to sensitise the teeming population in the state, especially at the grassroots level? The state government and its agency must institutionalise communication and awareness campaign about Ebola virus in all the local government areas because prevention is better than cure,” Dr. Emmanuel Ohwor said. Dr. Chijioke Igwe said since Rivers State has not recorded any case yet, awareness should be the main concern. “So the primary concern of the state government is how to create awareness about the deadly virus in the state. As I am talking to you now, many people in this state still believe that the story of Ebola virus is untrue. So, this is our major challenge for now and not to bring doctors from abroad. Our people need to know about Ebola. The UPTH, BMSH and other hospitals in the state should send team of their staff to the rural area to educate the people.” Dr. Sunny Chinenye, a consultant Physician who spoke at an Ebola awareness campaign organised by the University of Port Harcourt, said those living in the rural areas should be the first to be sensitised about Ebola virus. His reason: “These are people that set trap for bat and play with monkeys. They have access to bush -meat than those who live in the city. The culture of washing hands always is alien to them. They respect the tradition so much that they could sleep with the bodies of their relatives or loved ones. Of course, the body of an Ebola patient has more of the virus than when the patient was alive. So, the state must not relax. The govern-

From Precious Dikewoha, Port Harcourt

ment should put a proactive measure to contain the virus.” For Prof. Aaron Ojule, Chief Medical Director, University Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH), his concern is that the state should prepare for Ebola as if it were already there. He said: “We cannot claim ignorance of the Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) in Port Harcourt. We may say it will not come but what if it comes, what we do? We must prepare for it and put adequate measures in place to face the challenge. To be frank, nobody knows which state is next.” Prof. Ojule said the hospital’s management has educated health workers on Ebola virus, especially those working at the laboratories. He said the awareness campaign was also to prepare the health workers on the change in job ethics. “I want to thank the hospital’s Infection Awareness Committee for putting this workshop together. This is mainly to educate the health workers on the need to be alert by handling every patient, even if the person has headache, he or she will be regarded as a potential carrier of Ebola disease. This decision is in line with the Federal Government’s declaration of state of emergency on Ebola virus. It will assist the members of staff of the hospital to stay alert on any patient whether positive on Ebola virus or not. “The hospital must prepare for the challenge of the outbreak of Ebola disease by creating awareness to doctors and nurses whom reports and evidence have shown are at the greatest risk due to their professional calling. We are working with both the state and federal governments to see how we can contain the epidemic. We must protect ourselves, at the same time we don’t pray that any case should come but what if it comes? The doctors and nurses must be prepared.” He added that the hospital was working hard to improve its diagnostic capability. Another expert, Dr. Awopeju Temitayo, said the laboratory workers must be more conscious than any other person in the case of Ebola, adding that the room where an Ebola patient is being kept and the laboratory where the blood sample is examined are highly infectious and should be avoided except with safety wears. “I think I will suggest that we should be more careful at our various homes and environment. Some of us sleep in the same house with rat and we don’t care to chase them away from our homes. From today, I want to plead that we should kill the rats and ensure that no other ones come into our house again. This is because we don’t know where the rat is coming from. It may have contact with animals living with Ebola virus. People must also learn how to avoid fresh meat, stop touching fresh meat; those in abattoir are in a very high risk because they touch fresh meat. If that meat has Ebola virus, then the virus is more effective in fresh meat

•One of the health worker decorated with Ebola safety wear

than when it is boiled or dried.” Significantly, many in the state still consider Ebola a myth. A visit to motor parks and drinking joints showed that the ‘word’ Ebola sounded funny to this class of people. For them, it is another trick by the Whiteman to deceive Africans. Mr. Boniface Nduka, a bus assistant popularly called conductor, said: “Please don’t allow people to deceive you; it was HIV/AIDS to Lassa, now it is Ebola. How did they know that the name is Ebola? Oh, the Whiteman has been using our brain. If this disease kills the way they are talking about it now, we would have been in the grave. Now think about it, how many Whitemen have contacted the disease?” A passenger, who spoke with Niger Delta Report on a bus heading to Mile 4 axis of Port Harcourt, Chinaka Ugomati, said: “There is nothing called Ebola disease, it is another strategy for America to make money from the African countries. The Americans know about the disease; that was they were able to stabilise their citizens who contracted the Ebola disease. Where do they see the drugs? Believe me, they are after our oil; they want to wipe us out as to take our oil.” The argument by Ugomati and Nduka show that more awareness still needs to be done.

THE NATION FRIDAY, AUGUST 29 2014

NIGER DELTA REPORT INTERVIEW

I came to Benin in a lorry, says industrialist Deacon Vincent Agemonmen is an industrialist, philanthropist and an evangelist. The chairman, Freedom Group of Companies was recently honoured by the Benson Idahosa University with a Doctorate Degree in Business Administration. OSAGIE OTABOR met him.

OW do you feel to be honored by the BIU?

I am very happy about it. I feel it came at the right time but some people say it was overdue. I feel God's time is the best. I feel great.

Looking at your background? What advice do you have for young men? I will let them know that if they do well and they are not in a hurry to make money, a time will come that blessings will over run them as blessing is overrunning me now. As one is coming another is on its way.

How was your growing up like?

I sold palm wine, biscuits when I was growing up. I grew up in a difficult circumstance in a village setting you will not understand today. I trekked 16 km everyday to and from school every day without breakfast. My breakfast was eaten at 2:30pm.

What happen that you are now an entrepreneur?

I became an entrepreneur to give freedom to myself because I had suffered so much in poverty that I thought I had to do something about it. The hands of God were also pushing me. It was in a way to free myself from the bondage of poverty that brought about all these things we are seeing in business. When God finish with me in business, he gave me another business which is evangelism. My children are now taking care of the business.

What lessons do you have for elders that are yet to embrace Christ?

If God could arrest a church-goer like myself. I used to go to church to fulfill all righteousness for God not to be annoyed. Sometime I will

be reading newspaper inside the church. I did not go out to look for Christ, he came looking for me. He told me to get people like me and I obeyed. It was later streamlined to me to meet people like me, elders and others that need to be in Christ.

How much did you use to start your business? I came to Benin in a lorry. I sat on a bench at the back of the lorry without knowing where I was going. I came to Benin without a place to stay. If there were bridges in Benin like in Lagos, it would have been okay. I was surviving by just lying that I could no longer go home and the person would allow me to stay. I later went to hire an uncompleted boys' quarter at Oza Street. I could count the stars from my room. Imagine living in a house without a ceiling. It took a time for me to get a menial job at the Ministry of Works as a helper. While there, I learnt how to do plumbing. As I was doing that, it got to a point that I learnt a lot to be able to do contract work outside the ministry's job. I was one of the first people to bring water system to homes to Benin. When we came to Benin, there was no water in people's homes. There was only public taps where we used to fight. I was also selling palm wine and a taxi cab I drove at night to make more money. After a point I had to resign to give more time to business because my records showed that I was making more money than I was getting at the ministry. I didn't had to go and look for seed money.

How did you manage all of these without education? Necessity is the mother of invention. I would not have gone to secondary if we did not make effort. We had to fend for ourselves. Be-

fore I could go to secondary school, somebody promised to help my father but midway the person dropped and we had to do other things to make money. I sold Oxford gen biscuits. Young people cannot retail it and make profit because it was so sweet. To sell it one has to be very discipline. We did a number of things to take care of those things my father could not handle. In doing that, it helped us in business.

How did you come about setting up a sand dredging company and others? Immediately I started doing plumbing contract, I added plumbing material sales and then building materials. At a point there was so much demand for sand at that time. People used to dive into the river to bring out sand on the canoe because no dredging. With the creation of the defunct Midwest State, government was here at the capital, Benin city and there was high demand for sand for road construction in the city. It was beyond what people could do manually. Going to buy a dredger was not an easy thing. God helped us that some of the people we were dealing with in building materials brought a dredger and we took off. I went to university after the business was so big. I employed graduates and without education, I did not understand the workers I had. I felt something was wrong and I needed to sharpen it. I went to the great University of Ife. While there, I decided to do project on what would be useful to me. I did a project on quarrying and immediately, I left the university, we started a quarry company and inaugurated it at Ukpilla. It was from there I established marble industry and then water factory. After so much and having spent 50 years doing

â&#x20AC;˘Agemonmen

business, I felt I was tired of doing business but I am still in the business of God.

As a businessman, how were you able to combine your business and family life? My wife was instrumental. She played a wonderful role in the family. At a point, to come home for lunch was difficult so my wife suggested I bought an alarm watch to remind me of lunch. After I bought it, when the first alarm rang, I said I could not leave business opportunities for food. It did not work. My wife stood by me and took care of the children. It was my wife that helped more to care for the children.

Itsekiri leaders condemn impunity in Warri

EMBERS of Itsekiri Leaders of Thought, last weekend, met with Itsekiri Community in Lagos to deliberate on some thorny issues affecting the Itsekiri nation and work out a strategies to uplift the Itsekiri people. The members of the Itsekiri Leaders of Thought led by their chairman, Pa Johnson O. S. Ayomike briefed the meeting on the state of Itsekiri Nation, particularly the alleged lawlessness and impunity being unleashed on the people by their neighbors and the inability of Government to enforce law and order. He told them that Itsekiri lands have been forcefully occupied with their names changed by their neighbours in spite of several court judgments up to the Privy Council and Supreme Court. Mr Ayomike called for the cooperation and the awareness of all Itsekiri to confront the numerous challenges before the itsekiri people. He spoke also on the need for them to recover the numerous lands which have been illegally occupied by the some of their neighbours. Today, Itsekiri is experiencing a situation where tenants are turning themselves to landlords by force.

The meeting re-empasised the Itsekiri ownership of warri metropolis by virtue of the leases of 1906, 1908, 1911 and 1917 and in addition to several other acts of possession. He reminded them not to remain aloof from happenings at home and in Nigeria. He told them about the need to unite and to guild their loins to ensure the progress and development of ItsekIri people and their land. Mr Ayomike traced the early glamorous history and development of Itsekiri land to the contributions of some Itsekiri leaders such as Diere, Chainomi , Olomu, Nanna, Chief Dore Numa, Chief Festus Okotie Eboh, Chief O. N. Rewane, Alfred Rewane and Chief E.N.A. Begho,which brought about what is now known as Itsekiri dignity, integrity and the land. The meeting was told that unfortunately today, the Itsekiri are loosing their virtue of dignity and integrity as well as their land as a result of the impunity and lack of respect for law and order by its immediate neighbours and the apparent government failure in this regard. He warned that a nation, that does not respect law and order and history is

destined for perfidy and anarchy. The group said the Itsekiri nation must ensure the survival of Itsekiri as endangered specie through education, industrialisation, empowerment, dedication, love and peace. They agreed to forge a common front to struggle for the protection of minority rights for the survival of minority ethnic nations in Nigeria in the face of very oppressive majority neighbours. They reiterated their opposition to the demand for the creation of Toru Ebe state or any other state without their consent and approval. They also restated their demand for Warri State or to be made a special area as it was under the old Midwestern constitution of 1964. The meeting also agreed that Itsekiri must enjoy the full benefits of being the source of 80 per cent of the crude oil produced in Delta State as well as put in place measures that will enable the right people to represent Itsekiri in politics and appointments. At the end of the meeting, everybody pledged to work assiduously to make the Itsekiri Nation great again. The meeting was attended by itsekiri from all strata of life.

BRIEFLY 'No to zoning in Cross River' From Nicholas Kalu, Calabar

A GOVERNORSHIP aspirant in Cross River State, Mr Patrick Okomiso, haswarned against zoning. He is a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), which has zoned the governorship position to the Northern Senatorial District. Okomiso is from the Central Senatorial District. Speaking in Calabar, the state capital, he said: "I expect to see dynamic Cross Riverians coming to run for the governorship of the state. I expect to see them come and join the race like I will. Whoever comes out, we will support him. "I want to run and will love to see people come out en masse to declare for the governorship of the state. We should be able to have a very competitive election and we should be able to have men and women of integrity that can be able to propel this state to a higher level. There should not be any zoning. "There should not be any anointed candidate also. We should allow our first eleven for any position. The questions we should ask is what has the person done for Cross River? What positions has he held? What has been the position of those impacts on the state? We want Cross Riverians who can go into the things that Donald Duke and Liyel Imoke have done and see how with his own ideas to mould the state. "It is not a thing that you just bring anybody. Let Cross Riverians decide who rules them. Talking about bad candidates we have seen what is happening in the country, when a party imposes candidates on people, we see what it causes. Every child in Cross River from Bakassi to Obanliku as long as you are a Cross Riverian and feel you can do it, you should be allowed. "There is nothing like zoning. Zoning died when Yar'Adua died. If there was zoning, Goodluck Jonathan would not be the president of Nigeria. Let us stop start thinking about people who can governor. Let us stop all these sentiments of religion or where you come from. Let us begin to think about who can lead us well and bring prosperity to the state. Let us look for a Cross Riverian whether from the south, central or north who has what it takes. I get disappointed when I hear someone wants to be anointed to be governor.â&#x20AC;?

Ex-militants seek Toru-ebe State NIGER Delta ex-militants have called on President Jonathan to support the creation of Toru-Ebe State. Delta State Chairman, Amnesty Phase 2, Gen. Kingsley Muturu, stressed the need for Jonathan to address the long-standing issue of Toru-ebe State, which will unite the balkanised Ijaws in Delta, Edo and Ondo states. They said: "All we are saying is that Toru-ebe State creation is one thing we agitators have been fighting in order to unite our balkanized people. It is our home and we are calling on President Jonathan to look at this issue critically in the Confab report. He should not ignore it if we are creating additional states in this federation. "Jonathan should revoke all oil licences because they were allotted by people for themselves without following due process. He should revoke and re-allot them according to due process with Niger Deltans at heart, because we suffer all the degradations and pollution in the area."

THE NATION FRIDAY, AUGUST 29, 2014

NIGER DELTA REPORT COMMENT & DEB ATE EBA

OT long ago, I watched The Cupboard, a movie that falls into the category of what is now known as the new Nollywood. Shot with good cameras, acted by largely good actors, scripted well and directed with eyes and ears for details. It is a simple story of a man who has four children whose biological fathers he does not know. Even his wife knows not the fathers of the children. They are all products of artificial insemination, a fact the kids only know after the man’s death. As expected, they are disappointed. In their mother and in the father. They plan to go away from the family and see if they can survive on their own. One of them decides to stick with their mother. Her argument: a father does not have to be biological to be a father. And this brings me to the father and son I write about today. The father's name is Godswill Akpabio and the son is Obong Bassey Albert Akpan (OBA), who left the banking industry as a vice president in 2007. They are not biologically related. Some will say Akpabio, the governor of Akwa Ibom State, is the godfather or political father of OBA, who for seven years, was Commissioner for Finance, a position no governor or president gives to anyone he does not trust. Akpabio trusted OBA, saw him as a son and bestowed the exalted office on him. Like an average father, the governor expected absolute loyalty. For the better part of Akpan's presence in the executive council, he played the good boy. But no thanks to the 2015 governorship race, things have fallen apart between the duo. The son disagreed with his father's succession plans. Not that he queried the father's right to support a candidate, he just simply asked the father to allow others run too and not be goaded into adopting the anointed. The result: he was kicked out of office as commissioner. And the battleline was drawn. He was not the only one kicked out. Others who got the same treatment still link their fate to their refusal to back the succession plan. Let's get this clear: Akpan too wants to be governor. He says he is in the race not just for the fun of it but because there is a prophecy that he will govern the state. So, he is running with the vision. OBA is not the governor's only political associates or son who has parted ways with him. There are others who the governor now sees as wanting to take power through the backdoor. The governor is not happy with being dared by Akpan and co. So angry was he that towards the end of July he declared at the sod turning ceremony for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) secretariat in Akwa Ibom: "Christ did not say that there will be no Judas. Even our God Almighty recognised that even the people he worked with, and called them angels, that one of them was going to betray him. And that was Lucifer, what did God do? He threw him out of heaven. Has he entered heaven till today? Those who have betrayed the governor will not enter

OLUKOREDE YISHAU

ABOVE WHISPERS

•A weekly intervention on Southsouth people

olukoredeyishau@gmail.com

Father and son ‘

The PDP has zoned the governorship to Eket Senatorial District, where Emmanuel comes from. OBA, who is from Itu/Ibiono Federal Constituency of Uyo, says he is not bothered about this because he will not be governor by zoning but by divine prophecy. It remains to be seen if the father will have the last laugh or the son •Akpabio

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

‘

There should not be any anointed candidate. We should allow our first eleven for any position. The questions we should ask is what has the person done for Cross River? We want Cross Riverians who can go into the things that Donald Duke and Liyel Imoke have done...

‘

Guber aspirant Patrick Okomiso __

•Akpan

Government House." When the governor made this statement, the crowd was silent. Not pleased with their silence, he said: "I thought you would say amen." The people had a Hobson's choice and screamed: "Amen!" He repeated again: "I thought you would say amen." Again, the people screamed amen. He said that a third time and got the same response. He then continued with his story. He said: "You empower your children so that they will be a pride to you. You don't empower them so that they come and betray you. That is the lot of the world.

LAST WORD

OU can liken it to a ding-dung battle. One party is dragging it here. The other is dragging it down. At the end of the day, the whole thing may be torn to pieces. In this case, Nigeria and Nigerians will bear the brunt. Earlier in the week, Nigeria’s daily crude oil output decreased by about 45,000 barrels per day (bpd) valued at about N2billion. No thanks to the shutdown of Erhoike flow station in Ethoipe East Government Area of Delta State by members of the Orogun oil producing communities. Before the shutdown of the oil facility, the communities issued ultimatum to the operator of the flow station, the Nigerian Petroleum Development Company (NPDC). They obviously did not get what they expected from NPDC. So, on Monday, the people protested. The protesting communities vowed to sustain the face off till the oil firm decided to address their grievances. Their leader, Morris Ochuko Idiovwha, the Chairman of the Community Development Committee (CDC), Chief Banet Abafe, Women Leader, Mrs. Mary Umufo, as well as Chief Jettson Efetobor, accused the company of breaking agreement regarding the provision of basic social amenities, marginalisation in employment and many others. But for the NPDC, the people have no point. The protest, it insisted, was unnecessary and aimed at blackmailing it. It said the fault for the non-implementation of the agreement should be laid at the people’s door step for failing to submit a list of projects they wanted

‘

"I go back into the Bible, the Game Changer. I saw the story of Absalom. And I said may God take away the spirit of Absalom from our midst. Who was Absalom? The son of David, the father trained him and empowered him as the wouldbe King of Israel. Because of impatience, Absalom wanted to take over before the age of 30. He wanted to kill King David. And the King said, leave him to his fate." He then asked the crowd: "Did it end well with Absalom?" The crowd responded: "Nooooo!" He then went on to explain what happened to Absalom: "As a young man, he died, while his

father continued. I am assuring the Game Changer (PDP National Chairman Adamu Muazu) and the President that those who want to take power through the backdoor will die. They will die! And the PDP will continue. In Akwa Ibom State, those who want to betray, who were supposed to be our political children, of course they will end like Absalom. But if they change their minds, then they will obtain favour from the sight of God." Perhaps the background of what happened shortly before the governor made this statement may provide an insight into those he had in mind. What I have been told is that the speech might have been inspired by OBA's supporters who were said to have embarrassed the governor at the Ibom Airport when he went to receive the PDP National chairman. In an interview with our man in Uyo, Kazeem Ibrahym, OBA diplomatically 'finished' his political father. He said the story of Absalom was quoted out of context. His reason: "If you read your Bible very well, then you know that despite Absalom's behavioural deficiency, King David was still in love with him. I want to say that if the governor was referring to me as Absalom, then he should love me to the end." He added: "When the National Chairman of the PDP visited the state, I was outside the country. When I returned and heard the story of Absalom and the fate that awaits aspirants, I called the governor by myself and asked him if he was referring to me and he said no. So, I left the matter at that." He said he has rejected ministerial and senatorial positions and is holding on to this fact: In 2007, Attah wanted his son in-law to become the governor but the people preferred Akpabio. Akpabio has his candidate, whom he has not openly acknowledged. OBA says the governor is using the Akwa Ibom Consolidation Alliance (ACA) to support his Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Mr. Udom Emmanuel, as the next governor of the state. Will he fail like Attah or succeed in choosing his successor? The governor is optimistic. OBA is too. He says he will take the oath of office as governor next May 29. It is instructive to say that the PDP has zoned the governorship to Eket Senatorial District, where Emmanuel comes from. OBA, who is from Itu/Ibiono Federal Constituency of Uyo, says he is not bothered about this because he will not be governor by zoning but by divine prophecy. It remains to be seen who will have the last laugh: the father or the son? My final take: Let God’s will be done and the rule of the law must be followed. No violence; subtle blackmail is not a sin in politics. Name calling is part of the game. But please no one should act God. An adage says: “Advice is a stranger; if he is welcome, he stays the night; if not, he leaves the same day.” I hope my advice is welcome and stays the night.

BY BOLAJI OGUNDELE

NPDC versus Orogun…No retreat without surrender

done when they were requested to do so. The company’s Manager (External Relations Department),Ugo Atugbokoh, said the protest was in bad taste and aimed only to blackmail it using the media. According to him, when the NPDC reached out to the communities to submit their list of requests so they could be treated along with other host communities of the other eight flow stations, the Orogun/Kokori communities foot-dragged, resulting in their request coming in too late. His words to the writer: “Orogun and Kokori people are just one flow station out of about nine or eight of them in OML 30. When we moved in January last year, we went round all the communities, asking them to give us a list of their projects, some of them sent in their projects like Uzere, so many of them. We have completed so many, some are at advanced stages. Orogun and Kokori didn’t send us their list early. When we eventually got their list, to send us contractors to bid for the job was another long journey. The long and short of it is that their request came in very late, management has approved projects for them. “One of the things they requested was road; we have been to them, even as at last week

Tuesday to let us go and inspect this road to update our report about the road and come up with the detailed BOQ, they refused. Apparently, they had this mind to demonstrate and call the press. The Commanding Officer for 222 Battalion invited all of us to a meeting in his office ... There is no need for this demonstration.” Idiovwha does not mind the spokesman’s ‘ranting’. He insists there is no retreat until the company surrenders. “This Kokori/Orogun flow station has over 42 oil wells. Recently, NPDC made a publication saying that this flow station is the second highest producing flow station in the whole of Delta Central, in the whole of OML 30. In spite of this, the communities are extremely poor without any development. I can tell you that in the whole of Orogun, there is no medical centre. We are saying to NDPC and Shoreline Energy, if they don’t want to heed our demands, they should leave our land.” Clearly, the company does not want to leave the communities. It appears that the only option before it is to sit with the people and get the matter sorted out once and for all. This has dragged on for too long. The time to settle is now. Yes, right now.

THE NATION FRIDAY, AUGUST 29 2014

SHOPPING

Persianas group plans $200m extension THE Persianas Group is planning a whopping $200 million investment for the extension of the prestigious The Palms shopping mall in the Lekki area of Lagos. The move, which will mark the group’s fifth retail centre, having developed The Polo Park shopping mall in Enugu, Kwara shopping mall in Ilorin, Ibadan shopping mall in Oyo, and The Palms shopping mall in Lekki, will further exemplify the huge opportunity in the Nigerian retail sector.

According to Persianas, The Palms expansion is expected to commence in the second quarter of 2014 and will change the Lekki skyline with its imposing structures, which include a twin office complex, residential apartments, a ferry link to the lagoon, approximately 40,000 square metres of additional retail space and 16,000 square metres of multi-level parking space, and also raise the bar in commercial real estate development in Nigeria.

Nigeria’s retail sector records N205b investment in two years IT has been reported that the Nigerian formal retail industry has recorded investment worth over N205.4 billion in the last two years. Investigations show that from buying and selling at open-air markets (in both cities and rural areas), Nigerians are increasingly patronising convenience stores, supermarkets and online shops. According to a recent survey by Phillips Consulting, the fast moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector is a huge driver of the wholesale and retail markets, and it is characterised by low-cost items

that usually have a short shelflife. Similarly, the survey said online shopping is becoming quite popular in Nigeria, due to its relative convenience and the reasonable prices of goods and services available online. Citing a recent survey, the report said online shopping sector grew from N49.9 billion to N62.4 billion between 2010 and 2011, and from N62.4 billion to N78 billion between 2011 and 2012, representing a 25 percent increase in each period.

Ivorian businesses open online stores JUMIA Ivory Coast is raising the stake for ivorian businesses as the online market place is offering brands, distributors and craftsmen the necessary means to develop and extend their selling network. JUMIA will now allow all distributors, from international brands to SMEs, operating in the country to benefit from a number of advantages when they open an online shop on JUMIA ‘shop-inshop”. In a statement released by the online marketplace, subscribers to the JUMIA shop-in-shop platform can take advantage of JUMIA’s professional client-oriented approach, with agents who are trained to know the entire product range and answer all customer questions. “JUMIA has also developed the Net Promoter Score (NPS), which is a tool allowing the weekly measuring of customer satisfaction in order to continually improve service. On average, all customers purchasing products on JUMIA are contacted 15 minutes after their order. Moreover, the sellers do not en-

counter any logistics problems: JUMIA takes care of everything! From the order to shipping to customer aftercare, JUMIA brings Ivorian entrepreneurs the marketing and logistics expertise they need to conquer new markets.,” it said. The marketplace also allows sellers to benefit from exposure to hundreds of thousands of unique visitors every month, as well as a multichannel online and offline presence, in order to increase brand awareness and boost their sales. Speaking further, Fatoumata Ba, General Director of JUMIA Ivory Coast, said, “JUMIA’s marketplace represents a unique opportunity and an extraordinary business accelerator, making your offer available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week in Ivory Coast. In addition to our marketing and logistics expertise, our partners benefit from exposure to almost 300,000 unique visitors every month and the guarantee of an unequalled, international-standard quality of service.”

•Famous Grouse team with one of the winners, Mr John Balogun at a just concluded reward programme

Infinix launches zero smartphone

HE Infinix Mobile has launched its new ZERO Smartphone device. The event was held at Protea Hotel Isaac John GRA Ikeja, Lagos . Leading mobile technology brand Infinix Managing Director Mr Benjamin Jiang said smartphone is available and affordable in the market. Jiang added that Infinix is partnering with Konga.com and Etisalat Nigeria. He described Konga as one of the leading player of E-commerce in Nigeria established to reduce Channel costs , create a new business model and bring incredible value to our end users He also said the Infinix Zero is the latest addition to the Infinix mobile device family and come with innovative unique and ex-

By Niyi Adeniran

citing feature such as cutting edge design, Octa Core 1.4GHz Processor, 13mp Camera featuring a backlight through Sony Exmor RS sensor to capture great moment and make all snapshot sharp and vivid, 5hd screen, Gorilla Glass 3 is revolutionary glass technology with previously unseen native scratch and damage resistance on the front and back of the device Chief executive Officer Konga.com Mr Sim Shagaya commented on the device, saying the features and specification of this groundbreaking device are really exiting and he is very happy to make it available to all Nigerians at a price that will be of tremendous value to the consumers

According to Mr Jean Alexis, Infinix zero is designed in France for Africans, it is the first time that infinix will be releasing an Octa-core device in Africa. He said they believe with the e-commerce business concept, it will bring huge benefit to their end users.He said Infinix zero has fine blend of elements important to smart phone lovers and effectively combines a functionality, all at an amazingly affordable price. Head Device and Terminal Etisalat Nigeria Mr Layi Onafowokan said in just five years of operation, Etisalat Nigeria has become a major industry player with a global growing subscriber base of over 19 million in a highly competitive market.

Online shopping hits N78b A SURVEY by Phillips Consulting shows that Nigeria’s growing middle class, the rising number of Internet-enabled devices and the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) cashless policy are major drivers of online shopping and e-retail in Nigeria, which grew exponentially between 2010 and 2012. The report indicated that the local online shopping sector grew from N49.9 billion in 2010 to N68.4 billion in 2011 and to N78 billion in 2012, representing a growth of 25 per cent in each of the years. The survey showed that the Nigerian middle class, which currently stands at 38.8 million or 23 per cent of the population and which earns between N75,000 and N100,000 per month, was responsible for the increased spending on consumer products which accounted for nearly 80 per cent of online transactions. At 38.8 million Nigeria’s middle class is about 76 per cent of the total population of South Africa put at 51.2 millio CBN Cashless Policy Boosts

Online Shopping Business The success recorded in the online shopping sector has been attributed to the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) cashless policy. According to David Allison, CEO of Adibba Online Shopping Limited, a new entrant into the online shopping platform, the value of online shopping in the country runs into several billions of dollars. “With the new cashless policy being gradually implemented in Nigeria, things are looking up. People are getting warmer towards the idea of doing transactions online with several platforms springing up” he said. Allison opines that Nigeria is over 50 percent ready for e-commerce, saying though there are scepticism about e-payment solutions but the business is growing and will grow as there are over 300 registered e-commerce sites presently, “as more people get enlightened on the business, it will reduce the burden of doubts,” he said.

•From left: Head Device and Terminal Etisalat Nigeria Mr Layi Onafowokan, Managing Director Infinix Mobile Mr Benjamin Jiang and Chief Executive Officer Konga.com Mr Sim Shagaya display the new Infinix ZERO PHOTO NIYI ADENIRAN Smartphone at the launches of its kind at Protea Hotel GRA Ikeja Lagos

Ladipo motor spare parts market goes online HE Ladipo international motor spare parts market has opened an online portal where clients who are too busy to come to the market can purchase their genuine motor spare parts online and have it shipped to them. This development was disclosed by the Chairman, Aguiyi Ironsi International Trade Center, Mr. Ajibade Olajoku who said the activities of fraudulent middle men necessitated the new move. He revealed the website as : www.youseeam.com.

According to Olajoku, there is a network of partners who will supply customers with brand new products which would eliminate the need for middle men. He said the association operates from warehouse B, in the Aguiyi Ironsi International Market where trained artisans are on hand to deliver quality service to their online customers. Olajoku: “ We have an internal mechanism to ascertain the products, the new ones have warrantee of one year, while the tokunbo

gave guarantee of 30 days. It eliminates the rigour of coming down physically to an organized market.” He said the Association is determined to eliminate the middle men who specialize in frustrating the customers. “With www.youseeam.com, we are online for 24 hours. We have engine parts and other car accessories. Though we operate within Ladipo market, we have enough delivery vehicles to satisfy our customers.”

THE NATION FRIDAY, AUGUST 29, 2014

AFRICA BUSINESS

‘ Multiple entry point for foreign airlines stifles local carriers’ growth’

HE deputy managing director and head of flight operations, Arik Air , Captain Ado Sanusi has accused the Federal Government of undermining the growth of indigenous carriers through its policy of granting multiple entry points to foreign carriers into the country. Besides, granting such rights, he said government must ensure there is reciprocity in the bilateral air services agreements signed between Nigeria and the countries of the foreign carriers to bridge the current lopsidedness that exists. Sanusi said government must consider ways and assisting local airlines to boost their operational capacity to enable them compete with foreign carriers, by barring carriers from countries that are frustrating efforts by Nigerian carriers in getting traffic rights into their countries. He canvassed an airport slot allocation system that would give Nigerian carriers priority during check in and boarding , as is the practice in other countries. He accused aviation ministry officials of alleged corruption in facilitating the approval of extra flight frequency to foreign carriers at the detriment of Nigerian airlines. He said the alleged practices of such officials have contributed immensely to the invasion of the Nigerian market by foreign carriers . Sanusi said many African countries and others have been conspiring against Nigerian carriers in their quest to get approval to operate into many countries. He listed countries that have frustrated efforts of Arik Air to secure approval to fly into their country to include: Brazil, Egypt, Ethiopia, Togo and the United Arab Emir-

By Kelvin Osa-Okunbor

ates, He said what is lamentable, is the impunity with which Nigerian government grants unrestricted frequencies to many foreign carriers without any consideration for reciprocity by the benefiting countries to Nigerian carriers. Sanusi said many African countries, including Togo, Ethiopia and Egypt, which ought to pursue the liberalization of air transport in the continent in line with the principle of Yamoussoukro Decision of 1999 have continued to frustrate efforts by Arik Air to secure approval for flights into their country. He said many foreign carriers were taking for granted the generosity of Nigerian government, which would offer anything to other countries at the detriment of her airlines. Sanusi said the categorisation of Nigerian carriers as weak by some experts, who have perception imbalance about the carriers is doing incalculable damage to the reputation of the carriers in the international investor community . He said many international finance agencies would be discouraged to access funds to Nigerian carriers because of the way, they have been so labeled by industry experts. He said: ‘It is not unusual for foreign carriers to tell you that com-

ing to Nigeria is a matter of who you know and who you can ‘see’. You will be surprised to know that some of the so called negotiations involve a price tag of $1 to $2 per passenger, per flight commission demanded by the negotiator. “Consequently, there are several agents who scout for frequencies for foreign airlines in Nigeria and foreign airlines do pay them these commissions. Suffice it to say that top government officials might be unaware of this but there are other government officials who give one reason or the other of Nigerian airlines being weak, being incompetent and Nigerians want to travel but Nigerian airlines cannot airlift them to international destinations. “These are the reasons these officials give to justify what they do and for their applications for multi frequencies from foreign airlines to be approved. Some of them even go to Aso Rock and give false information about Nigerian airlines. On the other hand, when Nigerian airlines go to other countries and request for entry approval, these requests are never replied. For example, Arik Air has written to the embassy of Brazil, Ethiopia, Togo, Egypt, to mention a few; in most cases we never got any response. In some other cases we were given unending list and

‘On the other hand, when Nigerian airlines go to other countries and request for entry approval, these requests are never replied’

MTN empowers Lagos budding entrepreneurs

FTER successful outings in Enugu and Port Harcourt, MTN, will, this weekend, provide a life-changing and career-transforming platform for budding entrepreneurs through its idea-sharing and business-empowerment platform. Known as MTN Link Forum, it is designed to aid young entrepreneurs achieve efficiency in their business operations in the small and medium sector of the economy. In a statement, the telco explained that the forum is an avenue for budding entrepreneurs to network their way to the top. MTN Link Forum does this by bringing together budding entrepreneurs and established business icons together in one location, where they share best practices and new business ideas and network with one another. The forum provides them with current knowledge

required for running a successful business enterprise in today’s world. While emphasizing the commitment of MTN to ensuring that Nigerians are better in whatever they do, the General Manager, Consumer Marketing, MTN Nigeria, Kola Oyeyemi reiterates that the company as a truly supporting brand is committed to developing and engaging them to ‘Be Better’ in various entrepreneurial fields of human endeavour. In his words: “a strategic focus for MTN is to constantly provide an engaging and supporting platform for aspiring entrepreneurs. MTN Nigeria has continuously demonstrated this, through various values adding initiatives”. MTN Link Forum has hitherto, brought together notable entrepreneurs like Mr. Victor Itayo, CEO, Quantum Business School, Port Harcourt; Mrs. Chinwe Endora, CEO,

Swanu Creation, Dr. Jonathan Doerr, MD Jumia Nigeria and many others, to share their wealth of knowledge, at the earlier editions of the forum, held in Enugu and Port Harcourt. The MTN Link Forum is an innovative initiative that is focused on advancing the aspirations of budding entrepreneurs. It does this, by providing them with an opportunity to interact with renowned and successful Nigerian Business icons, who share with them success secrets and nuggets necessary for survival in today’s harsh business environment. The MTN Link Forum will continue in Abuja next month, while budding entrepreneurs with the best business ideas will be sponsored by MTN to attend the 2014 World Entrepreneurship Forum in Lyon France; in addition to juicy business grants worth N10 million.

Toucan Aviation opens crew facility in Nigeria

OUCAN Aviation, the Nigerian-based aviation company that specialises in coordinating corporate charters for executives operating in Nigeria and sub-Saharan Africa has constructed and opened, a purpose built guest house to provide Toucan Aviation’s crew with dedicated, private accommodation in its home-base town of Lagos. The property is located within the Ikeja region of Lagos in the Governmental Reserved Area (GRA), a gated community just ten minutes from the airport. The GRA is an epicenter for government and aviation business and with its committed security team provides a reliable base for the company’s crew as they rotate through their schedules. In a first-of-a-kind for Nigeria, the property features twelve en-suite

bedrooms, a lounge with billiard table and games, swimming pool, covered outside sundeck, gym and most importantly an industrial kitchen that is home to a devoted professional chef, Thabo Trevo Shiba of Johannesburg, providing crew meals throughout the day and night. Commenting on the investment of over half a million dollars Achuzie Ezenagu, CEO of Toucan Aviation said: “Our crew work extremely hard and need to feel rested and relaxed in comfortable, familiar surroundings so they can be at their best for their flights. For me this is an extension of resource management. If the crew feels cared for then that feeling will be returned, and they will perform better inflight.

Our international customers’ benefit from a refreshed crew, our team feels truly valued and it positions Toucan as a truly professional operator in the region.” Service is an important part of Toucan’s operations and is reflected by the employment of a permanent set of Toucan Aviation cabin crew personally selected by Achuzie and his cabin services manager Ms Gerda du Toit. Toucan Aviation also has a team of regularly rotated, internationally qualified pilots so providing continuity for clients. Toucan Aviation offers contract charters with a focus on attention to detail, efficiency and most importantly safety in all aspects of the value chain. Ezenagu suggests that these elements are key to providing successful contract charter.

when we satisfy that we were given fresh list. “One would have thought that since we have bilateral air service, including Yamoussoukro Decision by African states aimed at liberalizing air services in the continent, and other agreements reached in ECOWAS, it would be easy for Nigerian airlines to have easy entry to some West African countries, for example, Togo where Asky is based. “But Nigerians are too happy to give Asky all the frequencies it asked for and in fact, even feel alright that Nigerian airlines are denied entry to that country. It is high time the Nigerian government took a second look at this situation and responds appropriately. Our generosity and spirit of brotherhood should not be taken for granted and no nation will do what Nigeria is doing to her airlines. We wish to state categorically that Nigerian airlines have the capacity and knowhow to compete with foreign airlines only if the government, the civil servants will allow the issue of multiple entries to Nigeria to be reciprocated to foreign countries.” Nigerian carriers, Sanusi said have the capacity to compete with other players in the global arena, if government could have a rethink on its offer of multiple entry points to foreign carriers and insist that there must be reciprocity to Nigerian operators on the routes that such foreign carriers have been rewarded. He said other areas government could assist indigenous operators is to grant them waiver on payment of landing and parking fees for their aircraft, as is the practice in other countries. He said the levies and charges on indigenous carriers are too weighty , describing it as the highest in the world. Sanusi said the utilisation factor on Nigerian aircraft is too low, because of restriction on operations at some airports, which only carry our day light operations. Such daylight operations, he said are occasioned by absence of air field lighting systems at the air-

•Sanusi

ports, which he said should immediately be installed at airports nationwide, as is the practice in other West African and other countries. He accused of many Nigerian banks of not supporting indigenous carriers, due to the huge capital outlay required to acquire aircraft.He said: ”Nigerian carriers are not weak, labeling them as weak would only serve as a stumbling block to access funds from multilateral and financial institutions abroad.” He however appealed to government to assist in securing landing slot at the London Heathrow Airport for its Abuja operations, saying that securing seven landing slots in London would reduce air fare charged by foreign carriers on the London Abuja route. He said: ”Nigerian airlines and the industry cannot grow without the support of government, even if is a national carrier.” National carrier will not do more than what the existing domestic operators are doing. Government would be assisting the industry by stepping up its responsibility by reviewing the multiple entry point, which does not factor in the principle of reciprocity for Nigerian carriers. Granting multiple entry point for foreign carriers into Nigeria is counter productive.” He also canvassed the setting up of an aircraft maintenance repair facility in Nigeria, which he said would create jobs for Nigerians and earn foreign exchange.

Rainbow Housing Estate unveiled in Lagos

HE fast developing urban renewal project and largest construction site in sub-Saharan Africa sprawling in the heart of Port Harcourt, Rainbow Town Housing Estate has been unveiled in Lagos under the umbrella of a consortium of Bode Adediji Partnership a firm of estate surveyors & valuers. Mr. Bode Adediji who is also a former president of the Nigeria Institution of Estate Surveyors & Valuers, spoke at the presentation of the project in Lagos. In his presentation, he explained that the project is the biggest integrated luxury real estate development in Africa currently built on a 23.24 hectares of land designed to accommodate residential, commercial, recreational and educational property development of various types and sizes. The objective he said is to create an exceptional environment where the upper class can live, work and play adding that the master plan reflected some of the ideals of new urban communities worldwide and is gaining international recognition. He said the project is largely a private enterprise with participation of the Rivers State government by way of land contribution and sponsored by the FirstBank of Nigeria. On the composition of the team,

By Okwy Iroegbu-Chikezie & Temitayo Ayetoto

he said it is composed of very outstanding and successful Nigerians with enviable track record with the Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) -the Rainbow Town Development Limited offering impeccable leadership to drive the project. He explained that the state governor took the initiative to revamp the previous slum into a much better housing scheme in 2000. Located with strategic proximity to the robust and vibrant Trans-Amadi business-industrial area of Port Harcourt, the ambitious program was conceived with a range of good quality 1,181 residential units creatively located in terraces, detached houses and 25 high-rise condominium towers. These units, he revealed, will address various lifestyles and family sizes with 2 and 3 bedroom condos, 4-bedroom terraces and 5-bedroom detached duplexes, all en-suite with domestic aid quarters. On the return on investment, he urged investors to invest and take advantage of the urban renewal programme of the current administration in the garden city and expect huge returns. He however, was silent on the pricing, noting that they will come up with it on request.

THE NATION FRIDAY, AUGUST 29, 2014

AGRICBUSINESS ‘Road completion cardinal to Anambra agriculture revolution’

HE Anambra State Government has assured residents of quick completion of the ongoing Atani-Ekwusigo road project. The Commissioner of Works, Mr Callistus Ilozumba, told reporters in Atani, near Onitsha, that the road was vital to its Agricultural Transformation Scheme meant to generate employment and boost food production. Ilozumba said the 12-km road would link many farming communities that would participate in the agriculture programme. Speaking after inspecting the ongoing project, the commissioner said three bridges meant for the road had been completed while the work was going on at a good pace. “Atani-Ekwusigo road is a focal road for us, especially as it would

support the Agricultural Transformation Scheme since in this axis of the state, we have very fertile arable land. “It would assist our farmers to get their produce to major markets in Onitsha in order to get good bargain for them as well as help those that would like to buy direct from the farms. “It would be a useless venture, if after producing these tonnes of food items there is no good means of transporting them out of here and getting them to the market. “Government would ensure speedy completion of the road which will provide a quicker passage in and out of Onitsha,’’ he said. The commissioner stressed that the road would act as a good alternative by-pass to ease traffic jam at the Upper Iweka axis of the Onitsha-Enugu road. “The road, when completed, would

‘Nigerian wheat can compete in international market’

N agricultural economist, Dr Baba Bashir, said wheat could compete favourably in the international market with others. Bashir, who is the Programme Leader, Agricultural Economics and Extension, Lake Chad Research Institute, in Maiduguri, made this known in an interview in Abuja. He said that states had the capacity to grow wheat covering 1.8 million hectares. “We have over 1.8 million hectares potential wheat production area in Nigeria. The baseline surveys we carried out showed that our farmers are really responsive. “What they lack is bulk market meaning maybe a linkage to industries; the millers are actually importing rather than taking in-house and the import bill runs into bil-

lions. “Import of N2 billion daily, just wheat; if that one day import could be diverted inwards for farmers to actually boost their production, definitely in time, we will begin to export wheat; that means we are going to add to our foreign income. “But the problem is market; if the government can come in and organise the farmers, and make them to amass their products in one location for industries to pick up, then with time the industries can buy directly from the farmers; that will go a long way in boosting production,“ he said. The agric economist urged wheat farmers in the country to take wheat production as a business venture to improve their source of income and make profit. “The government’s target now is

Nigeria, 19 others to benefit from $63m project N IGERIA is among 20 African countries that will benefit from a $63million project that seeks to increase the potential of four key crops, rice, maize, cassava, and wheat. The project would increase yields of each crop by 20 percent, and a 60 per cent increase in annual average household income in five years through technology adoption. The Support for Agricultural Research for Development of Strategic Crops (SARD-SC), has four components which include agricultural technologies and innovations generation to ensure the right technologies tools have been identified to drive food production, technologies and innovations dissemination which entails farmers spreading the technologies to others and ensuring they can use them to increase production and yields and

Stories by Daniel Essiet

capacity building to empower the farmers to adopt technologies and project management. Other countries to benefit include Kenya, Benin, Côte d’Ivoire, DR Congo, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Ghana,, Lesotho, Madagascar, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. The project will be implemented by three Africa-based centres of the Multinational Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR). These are Africa Rice Centre (AfricaRice), the International Centre for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA). Meanwhile,Nigeria, Democratic

Republic of Congo, Uganda and Kenya are set to benefit from a new breed of Vitamin A cassava that can mature within a short time. The cassava that can bred on a large scale and contains high contents of vitamin A is produced by researchers from Center for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT) in Columbia.. The lead author and a plant breeder at CIAT, Hernan Ceballos, explained: “People need other nutrients like minerals, vitamins and proteins and cassava roots currently don’t have them and that is why we are initiating this research. This revelation comes at a time when statistics indicate that millions of people in Africa are typically affected by vitamin deficiency.

Politicians hijack cocoa fund, says CAN President

HE President of Cocoa Association of Nigeria CAN Mr Sayina Riman, has cried fowl over the N540 million allegedly disbursed to cocoa farmers in the country. Riman, who spoke to The Nation, said despite the determination and tenacity of purpose of the Minister for Agriculture and Rural Development, Dr Akinwumi Adesina towards cocoa farmers, “the implementations are far below expectation.” According to him, “if you are talking about accessibility of fund for cocoa farmers, the policy is not farmer’s friendly most of the banks that are saddled with this responsibility are far away from the farmers, the Bank of Industry,

By Shina Badare

Agric Bank and a host of others. They put a cumbersome operational policy that was difficult for most of the illiterate cocoa farmers to understand, that is why the farmers have put their fate into their hands,” The CAN President lamented that “most of the agricultural incentives went to the civil servants and their cronies. If you go to them, they will tell you that the farmers have accessed so much. If as the President of CAN, own about 200 hectares of cocoa, yet l cannot benefit ordinary chemical incentive from the Federal Government what do you think other cocoa farmers will benefit?

He explained that the major task before the association is how to get the data base of all the cocoa farmers. “As a body, we are taking the data base and want to get all the particulars of genuine cocoa farmers in the country, we are still talking to the minister of agriculture and commerce to be a partner and fund the Geo-Physical Survey, GPS of all the cocoa farm in the country for easy accessibility and for research purpose. “This will go a long way to access any fund because we would know who get what at a particular time. You can go to the farmers to ask if they access any of the acclaimed incentive. If they say yes, the system is through,” he said.

Sheep, goats scheme inaugurated in FCT

HE Federal Government has inaugurated the sheep and goats value chain scheme to boost commercial animal farming in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Mrs Ibukun Odusote, said the scheme would ensure selfsufficiency in animal protein. She said the programme was in line with government’s Growth Enhancement Support Scheme (GES) for increased quality animal production among farmers. “It is expected that improved ram and bucks will be given to farmer cooperatives for upgrading and improving the genetic base and productivity of the animals. “The Federal Government is determined and fully committed to ensuring self-sufficiency in food produc-

tion and animal protein through sheep and goats value chain. “Government is also determined through this programme to introduce the farmers to the necessary animal health care for improved productivity and production of small ruminants,’’ she said. Mrs Odusote said under the scheme, four bags of commercial ruminant finishing feeds would be given to each of the 180 farmers who benefitted from the scheme in the FCT. She was represented by Mrs Rabi Adamu, Director, Department of Planning and Partnership Coordination. Mr Ibrahim Hassan, one of the beneficiaries,praised the government for reaching out to the farmers. He said he would make the best use of the gesture to produce quality animals.

How to boost agro exports

XPORTERS of agricultural products need a helping hand from the government to overcome challenges they face in trying to reach new markets abroad and diversify their offerings. The Chief Executive, The Thy Consulting, Ismail AbdulAzeez told The Nation there was urgent need for the government to support efforts to accelerate economic development through trade, by strengthening the capacity of the Nigeria Export Promotion Council(NEPC) to provide business development services that meet the needs of agribusiness exporters. He urged the government to demonstrate readiness to assist exporters to boost agribusiness and increase non-traditional exports. The sector, he explained, has a potential for commercial agriculture, urging the government to partner with others to bring real economic

benefits through international trade. One way to achieve this, he said, was through promoting collaboration with the network of local export development centres as well as chambers of commerce, universities and educational institutions and other private service providers. The result, he maintained, ,would be an efficient trade support network providing export development services to agribusiness exporters. AbdulAzeez said exporters need to improve their capacities to better understand and implement food safety systems based on Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP),required for agro exports. He emphasised that exporters need to be taught how to improve food safety since importers in Asia, Europe and North America all demand food safety standards compliance.

•From left: Dr Ajala, Alao, Aroso and the Public Relations Officer(PRO) Dr Benedict Okonkwo at the event.

‘Why we need animal registration law in Lagos’

HE Lagos State Government has been called upon to institute a compulsory pet registration programme, complete with animal identification tagging and enforcement of Leash laws. The Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association (NVMA), Lagos State chapter made this call following the death of two people in the Meiran area of the state, allegedly from rabid dog bites. The deceased were Master James Makwa Musa, a 14 -year-old JSS 1 pupil and Miss Aishat Opakunle , a 21-year old fresh holder of an Ordinary National Diploma (OND). The association also warned quacks to desist from handling of veterinary biological, especially pet vaccines, such as anti-rabies vaccines and DHLPP vaccines. Chairman, Dr Alao Mobolaji, said his association condemned the development, describing it as quite unfortunate, “the loss of these two budding Nigerians is sad, unfortunate and needless because the dis-

By Oyeyemi Gbenga-Mustapha

ease, rabid is highly preventable by simple immunisation. Rabies is a preventable disease and has been completely eradicated from some parts of the world, such as in Austria, United Kingdom, Spain, Greece and Malta.” Giving an insight to how the death occurred, Dr Alao said: “Both reside at No 114, Road 1A, Mologede Estate, Meiran. The victims were reported to have been bitten on July 11, this year by a dog named, ‘Jerry’, a mongrel, allegedly belonging to one Mr Ogundiran of A115, Road 1A, Mologede Estate, Meiran, Lagos. Miss Opakunle died on Friday, August 8; while Master Musa died after a brief battle for his life.” He said both of them showed the vital signs of rabies in human, “Signs include fever, delirium, abnormal behaviour, numbness and loss of muscle function, drooling of saliva, hallucination, restlessness, swallowing dif-

ficulty and hydrophobia (fear of water). The suspect dog, ‘Jerry’, died five days after biting these two young people.” The association wants the state government to arrest and prosecute the owner of the rabid dog that led to the deaths of the two young Nigerians. Already, the NVMA State chapter is planning to dedicate this year’s World Rabies Day, by immunisation of unimmunised dogs in Meiran area of the state, to commemorate the memories of the two deceased, on 28th of next month; still the chapter wants further actions from the state government. The treasurer, Dr Omotayo Ajala said in the interim the government should, “remove all stray dogs in the Meiran area of Alimosho Local Government Area with immediate effect and screened for any possibility of rabies infection; all dogs owners the area should vaccinate their pets and present an up to and vaccination certificate of their pets from a qualified veterinary surgeon.”

THE NATION FRIDAY, AUGUST 29, 2014

Taxation Taxation of contract and direct labour procurement of Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAS) of government in Nigeria. (1) Introduction

HE Nigerian Tax Laws have provisions for the Taxation of contract Expenditure including those of Government, Ministry, Department and Agencies. The withholding tax (WHT) provision was introduced into the tax system in 1997 with limited coverage to rent, dividends and directors fees. Tax deduction at source has since been expanded to include: - All aspects of building, construction and related services. - All types of contract and agency arrangement, other than outright sale and purchase of goods and property in the ordinary course of business. - Consultancy, technical and professional services. - Management services. - Commissions - Interest and Royalty. The introduction of WHT regime came about in order to address the problem of tax evasion although, there is the overriding objective of full disclosure, transparency, predictability and fairness. Despite the huge Tax Revenue from award of contract and related source deductions, there is a growing interest in the usage of direct labour system in project procurement in Nigeria especially in the public sector. Direct Labour system is one of the several options of procurement used for project delivery process. This type of system is regarded as in-house because procuring entity, as different from contractor’s staff carry out the project delivery process and activities. One of the reasons for the preference for direct labour procurement is the Tax effect. Government Ministries, Department and Agency consume the services of contractors and hence are to be charged VAT by contractors who execute contract for them. This paper is intended to highlight how Government Expenditures are taxed in Nigeria and the extent to which direct labour procurement can be a Tax evasion scheme. This paper will not in any way address Tax issues relating to Corporate and Individual Expenditures. The Public Procurement Act 2007 And Award Of Contract By the provisions of the Public Procurement Act 2007, the following should be noted about award of contract and Public Procurement:i. Procuring Entities should outsource those services that are either not part of their core business activity or for which there is a fluctuating requirement in terms of specialist skills or Equipment, or where the open market provides a more efficient and commercial alternative. ii. The approval and maintenance of monetary and prior review thresholds is important for the faithful implementation of the PPA. The thresholds establish relevant approving authorities and methodologies. “Monetary Thresholds” is defined in the interpretative section of the Act to mean the value limit in Naira set by the Bureau outside of which an approving authority may not award a procurement contract. iii. Procurement to be executed:-

‘Despite the huge Tax Revenue from award of contract and related source deductions, there is a growing interest in the usage of direct labour system in project procurement in Nigeria especially in the public sector. Direct Labour system is one of the several options of procurement used for project delivery process’

a. by open competitive bidding, except as otherwise exempted; b. In a manner which is transparent, timely, and equitable for ensuring accountability and conformity with the Public Procurement Act and regulations deriving therefrom; c. With the aim of achieving value for money and fitness for purpose; d. In a manner which promotes competition, economy and efficiency; and e. In accordance with the laid down procedures and timelines. iv. Where the Bureau has set prior review thresholds, no funds shall be disbursed from the Treasury/federation Account/ or any bank account of any procuring entity for any procurement falling above the set thresholds unless the cheque, warrant or other form of request for payment is accompanied by a “Certificate of ‘No Objection’ to Award of Contract” duly issued by the Bureau. v. Subject to the monetary and prior review thresholds for procurements, the Parastatal Tenders’ Board of a government agency, Parastatal, or corporation or in the case of a ministry or extra-ministerial entity, the Ministerial Tenders’ Board shall be the Approving Authority for the conduct of public procurement. vi. The following procedure shall be observed by ministries, extra ministerial offices, and other arms of government in implementing their procurement plans, viz; a. Advertise and solicit for bids in accordance with guidelines prescribed by the Bureau from time to time; b. Invite two (2) credible persons as observers in every procurement process, one from a private sector professional organization relevant to the procurement and the other from non-government organization working in transparency, accountability and/or anti-corruption areas; c. Receive, evaluate and make a selection of the bids in accordance with prescribed guidelines; d. Obtain the approval of the tenders board for the award of contract to successful bidder. e. Obtain “certificate of ‘No objection’ to award contract” from the Bureau where contract is outside the threshold. vii. All bidders in addition to requirements contained in any solicitation documents shall: a. Possess the necessary: - Professional and technical qualifications to carry out particular procurement - Financial capability; - Equipment and other relevant infrastructure; - Shall have adequate personnel to perform the obligations of the procurement contracts. b. Possess the legal capacity to enter into the procurement contract c. Not be in receivership, the subject of any form of insolvency or bankruptcy proceedings or the subject of any form of winding up petition or proceedings d. Must have fulfilled all its obligations to pay taxes, pensions and social security contributions. viii. Procurement Approval Threshold (2012)

ix. Reduction or Contract splitting is an offence in the Public Procurement Act. x. The Accounting Officer of every procuring entity shall be the person charged with the line supervision of the conduct of all procurement process; in the case of Ministries, the Permanent Secretary and in the case of Extra Ministerial Departments and Corporations, the Director General or Officer of Coordinate responsibility. xi. Procurement by Accounting Officers must be on the

• Acting Executive Chairman, FIRS, Alhaji Kabir Mohammed

Mashi basis of approved quotation or Tender. Selection must be made from at least three quotations. xii. Section 19 of the Public Procurement Act 2007 specifies conditions for “Force Account” i.e Direct Labour, which should be executed within three months, to include - The procuring entity has ascertained that a schedule of rates, cost – plus or target contract would not be feasible, as quantities of work to be carried out cannot be defined in advance; - Works are small and scattered or in remote locations with no local contractors and demobilization costs for outside contractors would be too high; - Works must be carried out without disrupting existing operations; - The risk of unavailable work interruptions is better borne by procuring entity than by a contractor; - No contractor is interested in conducting the work at a reasonable price; - It has been demonstrated that Force Account (Direct Labour) is the only practical method for constructing and maintaining works under special circumstances; or - Where national security would be compromised if any other method was used. BLIBLIOGRAGHY 1. Financial Regulations (Revised to January 2009); Federal Republic of Nigeria. 2. Public Procurement Act 2007: Federal Republic of Nigeria. 3. Companies Income Tax Act, Cap C. 21, LFN 2004 4. Value Added Tax Act, Cap V.1 LFN 2004. 5. Federal Inland Revenue Service Information circular No: 9801 (1998) 6. Federal Inland Revenue Service Information circular No: 9502 (1995) 7. Federal Inland Revenue Service Information circular No: 2006/02 (2006)

‘Where the Bureau has set prior review thresholds, no funds shall be disbursed from the Treasury/federation Account/ or any bank account of any procuring entity for any procurement falling above the set thresholds unless the cheque, warrant or other form of request for payment is accompanied by a “Certificate of ‘No Objection’ to Award of Contract” duly issued by the Bureau’

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE DRAW

THE NATION FRIDAY AUGUST 29, 2014

FRIDAY AUGUST 29, 2014

POLITICS THE NATION

E-mail:- politics@thenationonlineng.net

ANAMBRA 2015 Anambra North Senatorial District is a politically conscious zone. Who represents the district in the Upper Chamber next year? Correspondent NWANOSIKE ONU examines the chances of aspirants at the poll.

• Igbeke

• Senator Okadigbo

•Obaze

• Senator Emodi

Battle of gladiators in Anambra North T

HE b a t t l e l i n e i s d r a w n i n Anambra North Senatorial District. Next year, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) will test their strength at the senatorial election. The senator representing the zone is Mrs. Margery Okadigbo, the widow of the former Senate President, the lateDr. Chuba Okadigbo. She is seeking a fresh term. But, her fate will be decided at the PDP primaries. Other PDP aspirants include Chief Samuel Ikefuna and former Minister of Aviation Stella Odua. Sources said that Senator Joy Emodi is holding consultations with stakeholders. Her associates said that she is under pressure to enter the race. “She will throw her hat into the ring after the consultations. She is still popular in the zone,” said a source. Okadigbo faces an uphill task. She has been criticised for non-performance, since she joined the rank of Abuja politicians. Emodi’s ambition also appears to be a threat to her aspiration. Despite the ups and downs of politics, she is still relevant in the district, owing to her pedigree and charisma. Emodi has endeared herself to the people. Although she left the Senate in 2010, she has not gone into oblivion. In fact, many chieftains believe that she deserves compensation for her loyalty to the party. Since she was booted out by the court, she has been a bit quiet. Before her controversial victory at the senatorial poll, she was the Special Adviser to President Goodluck Jonathan on National Assembly matters. Odua is also a formidable aspirant. She enjoys the sympathy of the Presi-

dent and notable other party leaders. The President reluctantly dropped her from the Federal Executive Council, following the alleged scam in the aviation sector. Thus, her chance is bright. However, she has some hurdles to cross. The opposition has started to fire arrows at her direction. They said that Odua still has some questions to answer from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over the bulletproof car affair that led to her removal asthe Minister of Aviation. This, according to PDP sources, may deny her the ticket. Besides, she is not well grounded in the politics of the North senatorial zone. In the APGA, the leading contender is Chief Dubem Obaze. He enjoys a tremendous goodwill from the zone. Many groups have endorsed him. Stakeholders have urged him to publicly declare his ambition. Senator Alphonsus Obi Igbeke has already declared his intention to vie for the ticket. But, it seems the people want a fresh blood. Some have faulted his ambition, saying when he was a senator, he did not make much impact. The Nation gathered that Igbeke is being propelled to contest by Governor Willie Obiano

According to a source, “Obiano wants to use the platform to challenge former Governor Peter Obi, who is backing former Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Chief Dubem Obaze.” Obaze’s structure is solid. The former commissioner is not leaving anything to chance. A group, the Equity Group, which spearheaded the emergence of Obiano as governor, is mobilising support for him. The group, which is led by Mr. Tony Ifeanyi, is said to be driven by the principles of equity, justice and fairness. Its members are of the opinion that, since Obiano, who hails from Anambra East Local Government has become the governor, it is only fair that Obaze, who hails from Ogbaru Local Government, should to go for the Senate. Observers have argued that the pattern of senatorial representation makes it compelling for someone from Ogbaru to be given a chance in 2015. Anambra North has seven local governments, out of the 21 in the state. They are Anambra East, Anambra West, Ayamelum, Onitsha North, Onitsha South, Ogbaru and Oyi. It is only Ogbaru that has not produced a senator since the restoration of civil rule in 1999. Between 1999 and 2003,

‘Odua has some hurdles to cross. The opposition has started to fire arrows at her direction. They said Odua still has some questions to answer from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over the bullet-proof car affair that led to her removal asthe Minister of Aviation. This, according to PDP sources, may deny her the ticket. Besides, she is not well grounded in the politics of the North senatorial zone’

the late Okadigbo (Oyi/Ayamelum) represented the zone. Between 2003 and 2005, Emma Anosike from Anambra East /West represented the area. Between 2005 and 2010, Emodi from (Onitsha North/South) served as a senator. Igbeke from Anambra East/West occupied the position between 2010 and 2011. From 2011 till date, Mrs. Okadigbo from Oyi/Ayamelum has been representing the zone. Based on this analysis, some stakeholders have argued that the odds favour Obaze. They pointed out that the former commissioner has the academic credential and experience to serve as a senator. Furthermore, they said that he attracted dividends of democracy to the zone when he served under former Governor Obi. These, according to the Equity Group, include the construction of the new Onitsha North and Onitsha South Council Headquarters, the renovation of other local government headquarters, provision of classroom blocks, roads construction and provision of over 143 water boreholes. Political watchers are of the opinion that the race is between the APGA chieftain, Obaze, and Emodi of the PDP. “Every party would naturally want to give its ticket to contestants who are likely to make impact during elections and not those who will be there to make up the numbers”, said a PDP chieftain. He added: “What Joy Emodi is in the North Senatorial Zone is what Senator Ngige is in the Central Senatorial Zone and both are political heavyweights in Anambra State and it will be difficult for anybody to defeat them in an election.” The only hurdle for Emodi, for now, is the crisis in the PDP, which is yet to abate.

THE NATION FRIDAY AUGUST 29, 2014

POLITICS Former Oyo State Governor Rashidi Ladoja reflects on the gale of impeachments, the National Conference, and Ekiti and Osun governorship polls. He also speaks on his governorship ambition. BISI OLADELE met him at Ibadan, the state capital.

Ekiti Central PDP senatorial aspirants for primaries

‘Legislators are abusing N impeachment process’ W

HAT is your reaction to the gale of impeachments in the country? Impeachment in Nigeria does not seem to follow the due process as it is done in developed countries. They say it is done based on gross misconduct. But what is gross misconduct? Murtala Nyako has been governor since 2007 and nobody raised any issue, until he left the PDP for the APC. In Nasarawa too, the governor had enjoyed peace as the only CPC governor. But, his trouble started when his party joined the APC. The PDP had said that it would rule Nigeria for 70 years. But, when House of Representatives members defected from the PDP to the APC, they woke up from their slumber.The PDP is now fighting like a wounded elephant and disturbing the forest. But, that is politics anyway. The difference between the impeachment of the Olusegun Obasanjo era and what is now happening is that, during the Obasanjo period, it was the PDP against the PDP. I was a PDP governor. Ayo Fayose, Diepreye Alameseigha, Joshua Dariye were PDP governors. I feel sad when I hear about impeachment because I know the pressure that is brought to bear on the governor concerned. And again, during that period, there will be virtually no governance going on during ithe mpeachment period. In Rivers State for instance, you will see that Rotimi Amaechi has only been battling for survival since the crisis in the state started. And we are talking about development. How can we develop under this kind of political climate? What is the position of the Accord Party on the impeachment saga in Oyo State? We are not part of it. TheAccord is not part of it at all. We will not be a part of any plan to give the governor any distraction at this time. Are you thus passing a vote of confidence in the governor? I am not a member of the House of Assembly, which is constitutionally empowered to do that. It is not for me to do; the lawmakers have an oversight function. For us in Accord, we don’t think Ajimobi’s impeachment will serve any purpose. It is just a distraction. Are you likely to defect to the PDP to contest for next year’s governorship election? I am going to contest the governorship position in Accord. Is Accord not threatened by the PDP’s chance in the Southwest? If a general tells his subordinates that he is going to a war to lose, none of his loyalists will follow him to the war front. I have built a party and the people of Oyo State want us back. We are not and we will not look left right and centre. At 70, are you sure you won’t be a sleeping governor? What does the constitution says about the requirements for governorship? I am not going there to be a wood or stone cutter. I am going back to the Government House to use my intellect and experience to set things in order. The work of a governor is to coordinate the people who are going to work with him and for him to dream and allow the people around him to go and achieve the dream. So, what is the hard labour there? How old was Adebayo Adefarati when he was governor? How old is the governor of Ebonyi State? Even Nyako, how old was he as governor? Though

• Ladoja

retrogressive, it is common for politicians to advance primordial reasons when they know they cannot compete and they are sure to lose. Why did the National Conference conference fail? It depends on where you stand. We didn’t go to the conference only for the items we have not been able to resolve. There were so many things that we went for. For instance, we discussed the type of federalism that we want and we agreed that states should truly be federating units in a federal system. We agreed on agriculture, the Land Use Act and so many things. It is not only derivation issue that we went to do. The fact that we did not agree on that does not mean the conference has failed. There were 20 committees and there was no dissension over the report of 19 committees and even the 20th committee. We agreed on nearly all the recommendations and only disagreed on the aspect that deals with resource allocation. So, I don’t think that we failed because we agreed on more than 95 per cent of the items that were deliberated upon. Are you optimistic that the recommendations will be implemented by the Federal Government? The recommendations can be classified into two. There are those that are purely policy issues, which can be implemented without the president going to the National Assembly to seek amendment to sections of the constitution, and there recommendations that require constitutional amendments to implement. Government can take decision of policy matters like the one on energy, agricul-

‘The PDP had said that it would rule Nigeria for 70 years. But, when House of Representatives members defected from the PDP to the APC, they woke up from their slumber.The PDP is now fighting like a wounded elephant and disturbing the forest. But, that is politics anyway’

ture and others which do not require any legislation. But, whether the present government can implement these recommendations now, given the fact that we are six months away from another round of elections, remains doubtful. We believe that, even if the government does not have time to look at the recommendations now, it will do so later and this is why it is better to re-elect President Jonathan so that he can do this unfinished job because the conference is his baby. This is the way I look at it. It will be easier to implement these decisions if Jonathan comes back. What about the recommendations that require constitutional amendments to implement? That is where the issue is. We want referendum to be done, but there is no provision for this in our constitution. So, whether the National Assembly will amend the constitution and include referendum there remains to be seen because the NASS members don’t have time again. Look at the time they have been trying to amend the constitution. And you know that whatever they come up with must be approved by two-thirds of the states. Where is the time to do this? But the report will be given to them and, if this NASS is not able to do it, the incoming NASS will do it. What is your position on the agitation for autonomy and parliamentary system by Yoruba delegates? I am representing Accord at the conference and not the Yoruba. There were some problems with the delegates from Yorubaland. It looked like we didn’t have an agenda. We noticed that there were 15 slots given to the zone. Of the slots, only one was allocated to Oyo State, the political headquarters of the Southwest. The remaining slots were shared between Lagos and Ogun axis. That already gave room for suspicion among us. I was told that the initial agreement was that every state will have a minimum of two slots and then we give additional slot to Oyo and Lagos States because of their huge human population. When I saw what was said to be the Yoruba position on some issues, I called delegates from Ondo and asked if they were for regionalism. They replied me and said “Oga, you were spending our cocoa money to develop Ibadan. Do you want us to come and surrender our oil money for the development of Ibadan again?” So, they said they were not for regional government. I asked those from Lagos and the said their internally generated revenue was already more than N20 billion monthly and that they would not like to come and be spending such money in Ibadan. So, we had two major states that backed out of what we said was our agenda. The reason proponents of regionalism gave was that the states were too small to mobilise the resources needed for regional development and I told them the Odu’a Investment is there for all the states. We can jointly own things without necessary being on common political ground. Economic integration is possible without political integration. For instance, if we want to build a refinery in the South-West, we can pump money into O’odua to achieve this objective. Between 2003 and 2007, we were planning a light rail scheme to run from Lagos and cover the entire South-West. We already had the ‘Odu’a Tel’, which was supposed to cover the Southwest. It is not a difficult thing at all.

By Emmanuel Oladesu

O fewer than 12 senatorial aspirants are warming up for the Senate in Ekiti Central District. The seat is occupied by the veteran journalist, Senator Babafemi Ojudu, who was elected in 2011. Party sources said that the senator will re-contest. The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) aspirants include Senator Bode Ola, a defector from the defunct Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), former deputy governor Dr. Sikiru Lawal, former House of Representatives member Hon. Fatima Rasaki, Senator Femi Kila, former Ado Ekiti Council Chairman Hon. Taye Fasubaa, and Mr. Kayode Alufa from Ijero local government. The aspirants have informed the executive committee led by Mr. Makanjuola Ogundipe about their ambition. They have also approached the governor-elect, Mr. Ayo Fayose, for endorsement. A dependable source said that the governor-elect is backing Ola’s bid to return to the Senate. The senator won the 2007 senatorial poll. But, Kila was declared the winner by the electoral commission. After three years, his mandate was restored by the court. Fayose has told stakeholders in Ado-Ekiti that he would back a candidate from the state capital because the the positions of governor and deputy governor have eluded Ado. Senator Ojudu, Senator Ola, Dr. Lawal, Mrs. Rasaki and Fasubaa hail from Ado local government. In the Labour Party (LP), the only aspirant is the federal legislator, Hon. Opeyemi Bamidele. His associates said that he will unfold his plan, following consultations with stakeholders in the five local governments constituting the district. The councils are Ado, Ekiti West, Efon, Ijero and Irepodun/Ifelodun.

Onanuga assures Ogun East of better future By Adebisi Onanuga

LL Progressive Congress(APC) senatorial aspirant in Ogun East Prince Adebayo Onanuga has assured the district of a better future. He promised to join other forces in the fight against ppverty and under-development, if elected as a senator in next year’s election. Th e veteran journalist spoke at Ijebu North Local Government during his tour of the area by his campaign organisation. Onanuga said poverty would be reduced, if those in power can fight for the welfare of the down trodden. He said: “I am not in politics to make money, but to serve. Ninety five per cent 90 per cent of the population is living below poverty line as they earn less than a dollar per day. Therefore, we need to fight poverty through responsible action.” The aspirant urged the people to vote out politicians who have not performed, stressing that they have politically outlived their usefulness. Onanuga commended the coordinator of his campaign team in Ijebu North, Alhaja Bisi Adenuga, for her activities and urged other members to team up with her so that the party can record success at the • Onanuga poll.

Aspirant calls for politics without bitterness

EOPLES Democratic Party (PDP) House of Assembly aspirant in Efon Constituency, Ekiti State Mr. Afolabi Akanni has appealed to politicians to eschew politics with bitterness, stressing that democracy can only thrive in an atmosphere of peace and tranquility. The businessman-turned politician promised to articulate the socio-economic problems retarding the growth of the constituency, if elected at the next general election. Akanni is warming up for primaries with other aspirants, including the youth activist, Olorogun Afolabi Ige, a former councillor, Prince Wole Aladegbemi and Mr. Lekan Akinyele, son of the former Efon Council Chairman, Chief Idowu Akinyele. They have visited the PDP Chairman, Mr. Femi Oluwatayo, to intimate him of their intention to run for office. In 2007, Akanni had won the ticket at the shadow election. However, it was withdrawn from him and given to his distant cousin, Hon. Bisi Kolawole, who represented the constituency between 2007 and 2011 before the defunct Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) candidate, Hon. Ogundele, was elected. The ambition of the aspirants has polarised the party and the town. There is a sort of class war dictated by the antagonistic preferences of the elite and masses of artisans and peasants. Those rooting for Akanni form the bulk of grassroots voters who find it difficult to comprehend the theoretical postulations of scholars on the political podium. To this poll confident electorate, who appears to be in the majority, Akanni understands the grammar of grassroots politics. Speaking with reporters, Akanni, the great grandson of the illustrious Obaloja of Obalu Quarters, the late Chief Adewumi Arapaiya, explained that he is in the race to serve the people in consonance with the style of his progenitors. He said: “I will shock people when I become the legislator. I will perform as the representative of Efon Kingdom. I know the problem of our community. I have not been far from the constituency. Collectively, we will find solution to them.” The aspirant appealed to other aspirants to shun intolerance, campaigns of calumny, politics of bitterness, thuggery and violence. He said: “I have been calling for peace among the aspirants. I have been discussing with them. I have also been reaching out to our brothers and sisters in the APC. Our focus is Efon Kingdom, its progress and prosperity. Therefore, we must conduct our activities in an atmosphere of peace and decorum.” Akanni said that he emerged as the candidate at the primaries because he enjoys a massive goodwill. He added: “We have a structure that is all-encompassing. It is a mass movement in Efon-Alaaye. We have won the ticket before. We will win it again and represent our people where we can better defend their interests.”

THE NATION FRIDAY AUGUST 29, 2014

THE NATION FRIDAY, AUGUST 29 2014

COMMENTARY

“

THE words of elders are words of wisdom. If they do not materialise in the morning they will surely materialize in the evening”. The above quotation is a Yoruba axiom that can only be faulted at one’s own peril. Now that reasoning seems to be finding its way back to Nigeria’s base of power especially in respect of insecurity problem and its possible solution, it becomes necessary to take a realistic recourse to that adage. The news that President Goodluck Jonathan belatedly met with former President Olusegun Obasanjo in Abuja last Wednesday to discuss the way out of the Boko Haram insurgency problem is a confirmation of that adage. Hitherto, sheer ego and whim of power had prevented that meeting even when sensible advice and suggestions were offered to the government by well-meaning Nigerians. Among such advice was that of His Eminence, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar the Sultan of Sokoto.

Voice of Reason As far back as October 3, 2011, the Sultan of Sokoto and President-General, Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), had delivered a lecture entitled ‘Islam and Peace Building in West Africa’ at Harvard University. When the lecture was published in this column a few weeks thereafter, it was re-entitled ‘A Voice from Harvard’. In the 33 page lecture, His Eminence enumerated the causes and effects of violent crises in the West African sub region with particular reference to Nigeria. He blamed such crises on three major issues: (1) political struggle for supremacy between the elite and the poor masses (2) bad governance on the part of the ruling class and (3) primordial ethno-religious sentiments. The most prominent of these three issues is bad governance which engenders corruption, joblessness, poverty, exploitation, suspicion and general bitterness in the land. Three years after that lecture, Nigeria is still in rigmarole searching for a possible oasis in a self-inflicted wild desert. For the benefit of those who did not read it at that time the lecture is being brought here again because of its relevance and the possible solution it may proffer to the multifaceted problems confronting Nigeria. An excerpt from the lecture is as follows:

Impression

“....Many people (outside our country) consider Nigeria as a theatre of absurd conflicts and interminable crises. They may be justified in holding this view; with the Jos crises festering for years, with post-election violence and suicide – bombings, it is difficult to think otherwise. When we consider Nigeria’s population of more than 150 million, half the population of West Africa, its over 250 ethnic and language groups, its regional and geo-political configurations, its landmass and its diversity in religion and culture, we may be constrained to reach different conclusions. Nigeria may, after all, be a paragon of stability which, as God Almighty has willed, shall undergo all the trials allotted it early enough in its national history. But in all fairness, systemic ethno-political and religious crises, like the ones we witnessed in recent years or are witnessing currently, do not have a long history in Nigeria. They all began in the late 1980s, following the intense competition for power and influence especially among the western educated elite; the Kafanchan crisis of 1987, in Southern Kaduna, was quickly followed by the Zangon Kataf and other crises; all in the same vicinity. The democratic dispensation, which began in 1999 also came with its own set of problems, the most visible being the Shari’ah crisis and the first Jos crisis which led to the declaration of state of emergency in Plateau State.

Primacy of Politics But these crises, varied as they were, reveal the multi-dimensional nature of Nigeria as a political entity. We witness the primacy of politics in almost all these conflicts. In the struggle for power and political supremacy as politicians exercise no restraint in aggravating the socio-religious and ethnic cleavages, which characterise the geo-politics of the Nigerian state. It should not be forgotten that the second Jos crisis of November 2008 was also ignited by a botched Chairmanship election in Jos North Local Government. The second dimension to these crises, especially in Kaduna and Plateau States, is the

FEMI ABBAS ON femabbas756@gmail.com 08115708536

Challenges to peace-building a disturbing atmosphere of mistrust, fear and hostility, especially between the leaderships of Nigeria’s two major religions: Islam and Christianity. To resolve these knotty issues, we chose the path of positive engagement, which we thought would engender meaningful discourse, improve communication and understanding and change the dynamics of our operating environment to that of trust and confidence...

Role of NIREC

•Sultan Abubakar

indigene/settler dichotomy, which is yet to be addressed properly by the Nigerian state. Many ethnic groups in these conflict areas see the other ethnic groups as foreigners who should not enjoy the full rights of bona fide residents. Most of these disenfranchised Nigerians also happen to be Muslims. However, those who oppose this dichotomy argue that these so-called settlers had spent more than two hundred years in the areas they reside. Moreover, as Nigerian citizens, they have the full right to reside wherever they wish and pursue their legitimate business without let or hindrance. After all, they cannot be settlers in their own country. The third dimension of Nigeria’s ethnoreligious crises is their potential to become a systematic national crisis. When a person is killed in any of the areas of conflict, his co-religionists, especially in the cities react violently and begin to kill anyone they think is related to the killer(s). This often triggers further reprisals from other parts of the country where victims come from. It took a lot of effort by the Nigeria InterReligious Council (NIREC) which I co-chair, and other state authorities, to treat each crisis independently and reduce the risk of systemic reprisals. The fourth dimension of Nigeria’s crises is poor leadership and the bad governance usually associated with its management. Many of those charged with authority in the states where these conflicts occur are also parties to the crises. They make feeble efforts to control the violence and do so only when much of the damage has been done... “....The issue of poor leadership and bad governance also explains how the Boko Haram movement has been able to transform itself from a small Hijrah group in Yobe State, escaping from the uncertainties and contradictions of the Nigerian state, to a militant movement able to wreak havoc and destruction once provoked. Those in authority were prepared to court the leaders of this group when it suited them and to trample on them like flies when they were no longer useful...However, the recent bombing of the United Nations Office in Abuja has introduced an international dimension to terrorist’s activities, a development, which is hitherto entirely new to Nigeria.

The promise of dialogue “....When I became the Sultan of Sokoto in November 2006, some of the major problems I found on ground were the after-effects of the riots, especially in Kaduna, Jos and some parts of the North East as well as

“....The Nigeria Inter-Religious Council (NIREC) provided the right platform for this engagement. The Council, itself a product of Nigeria’s ethno-religious crises, was composed of 25 members each from the two religions and co-chaired by myself, in my capacity as the President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council of Islamic Affairs, and the President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN). The approach of NIREC was simple and practical. Firstly, we affirmed the sanctity of human life, Muslim and Christian, and insisted that anybody who takes the law into his hands, regardless of the circumstances, must bear the full legal consequences of his action. You cannot believe it, but despite the frequency of these disturbances, only a few people have ever been punished for perpetrating any act of violence. The masterminds go scot-free. Secondly, while appreciating the fact that we are required to look after the interest of our co-religionists, we must pay attention to the other dimensions of our conflicts. As many were preparing to declare a religious war in Jos, for example, we laboured hard to draw attention to the other dimensions of the crisis. It was a conflict between Muslims and Christians quite alright, but it was not a conflict between Islam and Christianity. When Nigeria’s President called for a parley among stakeholders, we made bold to declare the Jos crisis a political crisis. Thirdly, we adopted a tactical approach to conflict resolution. Whenever, there is a break-out of violence, we work together to restore law and order and ask the quarrelsome questions later. We take this approach to minimise loss of life and to ensure that the crisis is contained in the primary area it occurred. Also, we devised a quarterly meeting schedule that took us to all parts of the country. It was heartening to many to see us working together and preaching peaceful co-existence and religious harmony even in areas, which never registered an ethno-religious conflict.

Recommendation I must point out that it was also our view that inter-faith action should transcend conflict resolution. For it to be effective, it must affect the life of the common man. NIREC floated the Nigeria Inter-Faith Action Association (NIFAA) to take up this challenge and NIFAA has been very active in the control of the dreaded tropical disease: Malaria. We also find that we must act together to address issues related to electoral reform, good governance and anti-corruption. I am also glad to state that the goodwill and understanding which these activities were able to generate, have given impetus to the development of inter-faith dialogue to a new level. I always remember, with happiness, the seminar organised by the CAN in April 2010, on ‘Knowing Your Muslim Neighbour’, where I presented a paper on the top-

ic. The Nigerian Supreme Council of Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) gracefully reciprocated by inviting CAN members to its formal meeting in Kaduna, where the CAN representative gave a lecture on Islam in the eyes of a Christian and both Muslim and Christian scholars, gave inspiring responses on the scriptural basis of mutual co-existence. Despite serious setbacks in recent months, many of us remain committed to this positive engagement and to the promise that dialogue offers the resolution to Nigeria’s ethno-religious crises.

Looking ahead ‘’...Understanding the multifarious nature of Nigeria’s ethno-religious crises should strengthen our resolve and determination to deploy all the energies and resources at our disposal to see to their resolution. Our inability and reluctance to take meaningful action go to challenge not only our common humanity but also our self-worth. It is, therefore, important for us to appreciate, first and foremost, the importance of consensus building within the polity, with a view to ameliorating the current state of political polarization in it. The Nigerian political class must be able to speak and understand one another as well as to develop a minimum national agenda to chart the way forward. The political class must also be able to open dialogue on a variety of national issues, including the perennial problem of power rotation and willingly enter into agreements that they can honour with dignity....

Governance “....Also, governance, at all levels, must translate into tangible benefits for all Nigerians, regardless of their ethnic and religious affiliation. Nigeria has the resources to make life more pleasant for its people. It is equally imperative to address the poverty problem as well as the needs of the youth population both in all the geo-political areas of the country. In a situation where over 50 per cent of our population is jobless at less than 19 years of age, we are definitely sitting on a time bomb much deadlier than that of Boko Haram unless we take urgent action to defuse it.... “....Furthermore, there should be renewed determination to address both the Jos and Boko Haram sectarian crises. The Federal Government must take seriously its security responsibilities and effectively contain these crises. But beyond that, a genuine dialogue must be initiated, to begin healing festering wounds and to bring genuine understanding and reconciliation amongst the entire people of Plateau State and beyond. The social dimension of the Boko Haram cannot also be resolved by the mere use of force. This is the reason why I have consistently suggested dialogue and education to counteract its message, especially those aspects dealing with modern education. Millions of Muslim pupils are already outside the school system. Millions more will definitely follow if urgent intervention is not undertaken to enlighten the younger generations. And the question I have always asked is What kind of society can we build in the 21st century when our youth turn their back on science and technology and are unable to produce the next generation of doctors, engineers and other specialisations necessary for sustaining the socio-economic development of the society?....

Conclusion “....Finally, we should not neglect the impact of the international environment on Nigeria’s ethno-religious crises. Happenings in the United States, Iraq, Afghanistan, Norway, Netherlands, the United Kingdom and France are as current and relevant as events in Jos, Maiduguri and Abuja. We must preach international tolerance and moderation. The fight against extremist groups should never be perverted to become a fight against Islam and its doctrines. We should all remember that in the final analysis, it is not what the perpetrators of violence do that really counts. It is the actions we take, individually and collectively, that would (eventually) shape the fate of humanity....” Now, with this new development, in which a volunteer for negotiation is being granted governmental authority, the hope of redeeming Nigeria from impending disintegration may be rekindled if the motive is not political especially with the 2015 elections becoming fast-approaching.

THE NATION FRIDAY AUGUST 29, 2014

THE NATION FRIDAY, AUGUST 29, 2014

SOCIETY It was a grand expression of affection when a chieftain of the All Progressive Congress (APC) in Lagos, Bashorun Tajudeen Jaiyesimi, was joined by well-wishers in celebration of his son’s wedlock last Saturday. DADA ALADELOKUN was there.

T was probably the busiest day at the sprawling premises of the Federal College of Education (Techical), Akoka, Lagos Mainland in recent times. Automobiles competed for space as all manners of traditional drummers welcomed people with enthralling songs. With exemplary politeness, sturdy bouncers assisted by neatly dressed ushers welcome guests donning their best into the institution’s New Multipurpose Hall, venue of the swell outing. It was an exquisite wedding reception last Saturday. By 4pm, the tastefully decorated commodious hall had been filled by the guests. At the centre of it was Folayemi, chubbycheeked son of Ikorodu, Lagos-born prominent chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Bashorun Tajudeen Adio Jaiyesimi, who tied the nuptial knot with his delectable Delta-born lover, Mercy Adegor. The Minority Whip of the Senate and governorship aspirant in the state, Senator Ganiyu Olanrewaju Solomon (GOS), who chaired the occasion, was already there with his wife, Aderonke and a good number of APC loyalists about two hours before the arrival of his hosts. Long before the new couple’s majestic entry into the hall amid songs from their excited friends after their traditional engagement, Faith Music Band led by Ayo Ajekigbe had turned the outing into a carnival with pulsating beats. He thrilled the gathering with evergreen numbers from the reservoirs of Juju music legends Ebenezer Obey and King Sunny Ade. The couple’s family members appeared to have anxiously expected that moment of joy. Looking radiant in their blue head gears and caps, they rose to rejoice with their own. The bride’s parents, Deacon Godwin Adegor and Mrs Bethel Adegor could not hide their joy. So were Jaiyesimi and Folayemi’s mother, Abimbola, a successful business woman, who moved round, exchanged pleasantries with guests and dance with them. It was applause all the way as Solomon, with his trademark joviality, advised the couple to imbibe and actualise all necessary ingredients of a productive wedlock. “Live together as friends and strive to guard your oneness jealously and I trust, you will be happy you did,” the senator said. After the usual ritual of cake cutting and toast, the couple, who

Pomp as APC chieftain’s son weds

• Groom’s parents: Bashorun Jaiyesimi and his wife, Abimbola

• The couple, Folayemi and Mercy

donned their best bib and tucker, stepped onto the dance floor for what seemed a terpsichorean contest that spurred a prolonged rain of mint naira notes. The Adegors, the Jaiyesimis, their friends and wellwishers were not left out. That the couple and their parents are well loved came to the fore when it was time for gifts presentation. The bride’s kinsmen from Jesse in Ethiope West Local Government Area of Delta State gleefully partook with showers of prayers on the couple. Asked about her impression about the day, the bride, Mercy, said: “This is a special day that I have long wished to come to pass. God is faithful to have blessed me with my ideal

• Bride’s mother, Mrs Adegor

friend in Folayemi.” Folayemi, a fast-rising marketer, described the outing as a rare milestone in his life. “Mercy stands for God’s mercifulness towards me. So, having this grand opportunity to live the rest of my life with her is a thing of eternal joy,” he said. Their parents were unsparing in words of gratitude to God for the success of their children’s wedlock as they beseeched Him to guide them aright in everlasting conjugal bliss. As the usual photograph session went on, other guests, including gate crashers were treated to sumptuous meals and assorted drinks by some caterers who were stationed outside the hall.

BIRTHDAY

•From lef: The celebrator, Alhaji Ayo Adeyemi; Sasi of Lagos, Chief Olaseni Lamina; Ranodu of Imota, Oba Ajibade Bakare-Agoro and Chairman, FirstBank Limited, Prince Ajibola Afonja, during the public presentation of Adeyemi's books, to mark his 80th birthday in Lagos…yesterday

• Deacon Adegor

•From left: Senator Solomon, Chief Shitta and Chief Bisade-Phillips PHOTOS: ABIODUN WILIAM

WEDDING

• Former Miss Ifeoma Helen Obi and her beau Ndubuisi Udoagwa, at their wedding in Satellite Town, Lagos.

THE NATION FRIDAY, AUGUST 29, 2014

SOCIETY

The remains of a businesswoman, Alhaja Rafat Mogaji, have COMMUNICATE been interred at her Epe hometown in Lagos. The interment YOUR IDEAS followed a prayer at Ogudu Junior Grammar School in Ogudu GRA, Lagos, last Sunday. AMAKA NZENWA reports. How to manage difficult conversations

• Children of deceased (from right) Gbolahan; Bolanle; Wale and Rilwan

All for a loving mother

T was a solemn gathering at the funeral of a businesswoman Alhaja Rafat Alake Olufunmilayo Mogaji, at Ogudu Junior Grammar School in Ogudu GRA, Lagos. The late Alhaja Mogaji, who worked with the Nigerian Army before starting her own business, devoted resources and time to the propagation of Islam. She built mosques across Lagos. At her funeral, notable Islamic scholars, friends and family members gathered to sympathise with her children. Many described her as a woman that left a lasting legacy of community development, selflessness, devotion and dedication to the cause of humanity. After the fidau which lasted for about an hour, the recitation of the whole Quran was taken. There were sermons by

• Cross section of clerics at the event

officiating clerics. The first son and Chairman of Topnotch Properties, Chief Bolanle Mogaji, described his mother as a virtuous woman. He said she would be missed by the family. The second son, Mr Gbolahan Mogaji, a London-based businessman said he was touched by his mother’s death but consoled by the fact that she lived an exceptional life. “I believe that only God gives and takes,” he said.

A Communications and Knowledge Management Specialist with the Lagos Eko Project, Mr Wale Mogaji, described Alhaja Mogaji is a friend to all. “She is fashionable, caring, loving, a woman with a very witty sense of humour and someone he learnt a lot of high level of grammatical expressions from. Mr Rilwan Tokosi of Skye Bank, said; “I was really close to my mum and she has been there for me all

SEND FORTH •From left: Chief of Staff to the Ogun State Governor, Prof Ganiyu Olatunde; Head of Service Mrs Modupe Adekunle; retired Permanent Secretary Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, Alhaji Ambaliu Ishola; his wife and Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Mr Segun Odubela at a sent forth for Alhaji Ishola in Ogun State.

through, she is my confidant and an exceptional guide. I will always remember her for showing me the ways of Islam. I really miss her” he said. Chairman of Greenland Hotels, Ikeja, Dr Yinka Ilori, described the late Alhaja Mogaji as a real mother. “I have known her for quite a while and she has always been fun to be with, she is humorous and cares about everyone’s progress,” he said.

R. Charles swayed on his seat with his fingers clasped under his chin. Though he was trying to think, his mind was consistently bombarded with unattractive consequence. The biggest question on his mind was “How”. That task was undoubtedly the most difficult one he had performed since his appointment as the AMODU LANRE OLAOLU Chief Personnel Officer of the (Ph.D) sospeak2lanre@yahoo.com. Fast Benefit Ltd. He thought, 07034737394 “When Mr. Smart comes in, I @lanreamodu will say, ‘please have your seat sir. I called to inform you that your appointment in this organization has been forthwith terminated …’” No, he didn’t feel that was good enough for someone who had served the organization for 25 years. Mr. Smart was a company driver in his late 50s. The CEO was of the opinion that he was becoming sluggish, unreliable and less suitable for the fast paced activities of the organization. However, considering the way he complained about his inability to support his wife and nine children, how would Charles now compound the problem by communicating his disengagement? To further complicate the matter, Smart’s wife had been in and out of the hospital because of an ailment. Someone had to give him the news and it was Charles’ unfortunate lot to do so, which he had already accepted. However, the big question was how he would present the information? Words are like vehicles that convey emotions. The relationship between words and emotions is quite complex because they keep interacting. For instance, is it your emotion that determines the words you speak or the words that determine your emotion? Well, you may see it differently but this is how I see it: for the person who initiates the conversation, emotion influences the words that are spoken, while for the person who responds, the words spoken determine the emotion. As in the story above, the emotion of Charles will determine how he breaks the news to Smart while Smart’s emotion will be determined by the words spoken by Charles. When conversations are over-charged with emotions, they mostly become difficult to manage. For a moment, think of a conversation you need to have with someone that you are not looking forward to. Do you have to tell your mum you broke her favorite dish? Do you have to tell your dad that you crashed his car? Do you have to break a relationship? There are several conversations we would rather avoid, yet they are necessary. What makes these conversations even more difficult is that we must have them one-to-one. If you think avoiding them is safe, let’s take a look at a few dangers of that: • It is misleading: delaying or avoiding important but difficult conversations is very misleading. You lead the person involved to believe that all is well when trouble is looming. If you think your friend would be embarrassed if you tell her that she’s got oil stain on her dress, guess what would have when she discovers it at night after walking the length and breadth of the city? Most times, avoiding speaking when we should eventually hurt people more than if we had spoken to them. Since people have no way of reading our minds, it is better we tell them how we feel; of course the way we tell them matters. Imagine if Mr. Charles fails to inform Mr. Smart that his services were no longer needed. He would have discovered in an unpleasant way. • It is unfair: when you fail to have difficult conversations, you deny people of the opportunity to improve. If you don’t tell people what they ought to hear, you don’t give them the chance of making things right. Sometimes you tell yourself, “I know how he would react if I tell him,” but may be wrong. Supposing you are even right, it is not in your place to deny him that information. • It affects productivity and efficiency: when you are in a situation where the performance of one person affects the productivity of every other person, it is wise that you have the conversation. If you don’t, you will sacrifice the greater good on the platform of insincerity. Imagine what would happen if, for sentimental reasons, people are left to perform functions for which they are not competent? Quality would drop, business would be lost and more people would lose. Imagine if you remain in relationships that sap your energy and life instead of refreshing you. When you fail to have difficult conversations, you avoid temporary difficulty just to encounter long-lasting future responsibility. • It kills the morale of team members: it is very possible that several people are making good inputs while one person is drawing them back. It is unfair to allow one person’s weakness to make other people seem incompetent. Of course, the solution is not always to get rid of the person. Sometimes, all you have to do is call his/her attention to it, while some other times, you may need to move them into another department where they can function better. Considering how important it is for us to have the difficult conversations we have been avoiding, it becomes necessary to know how to do it. Mr. Charles in the story above knew he had no choice but to inform Mr. Smart about his termination of appointment; his greatest problem was “how”. Next week, by the grace of God, we shall discuss how to manage such conversations. Have a great weekend. Dr. Amodu teaches at the Department of Mass Communication, Covenant University, Ogun State.

THE NATION FRIDAY, AUGUST 29, 2014

SOCIETY

For the love of community The Asiwaju of Ibefun, Prince Michael Babatunde Taiwo has celebrated his 82nd birthday in Ibefun, a town on the outskirts of Ijebu-Ode in Ogun State, writes TIMOTHY OWOMOLADE

ULY 1 will linger in the memory of sons and daughters of Ibefun, a town on the outskirts of Ijebu Ode in Ogun State. It was the day the Asiwaju of Ibefunland, an educationist, Prince Michael Babatunde Taiwo marked his 82nd brithday. It was an occasion for the ‘birthday boy’ to draw his guests’ attention to projects aimed at uplifting the community. As early as 9am, the sleepy town began to witness the influx of gainly dressed guests in exotic rides. By the time the event got underway at 11am, it was apparent that this was not just another birthday. Guests sat under canopies erected round the pavilion of the International College, Ibefun, venue of the ceremony. The celebrator was clad in all white native attire – buba, sokoto, agbada and a befitting cap. He wore two long chains – one reach his chest, the other flowed to his abdomen.

Highlights of the event included the unveiling of the bust of Prince Taiwo erected in his honour at the centre of the newly constructed staff quarters at the International College Ibefun, the commissioning of a Police post and the staff quarters as well as sharing of essential items to the less privileged. Prince Taiwo thanked guests for coming to honour him. He thanked God for all His mercies and the opportunity to witness another year but most importantly the privilege to nurture a dream of establishing the International College Ibefun three years ago. He said the college would provide opportunities for youth to realise their academic yearning and cravings at the secondary level. ‘’... please, for those of you that God has blessed with riches, try to go back to your villages and replicate what you have seen here today, because in so doing you are contributing your quota to the service of

• Prince Taiwo (second left) joined by his daughters Justice Ibironke Banjoko (left); Dr Patience Osinubi and son-in-law Mr Seye Banjoko to cut the cake

God and humanity,” he said. Ogun State Commissioner for Education, Dr Segun Odubela, inaugurated the new staff quarters. Dr Odubela hailed the celebrator’s contribution to the state.

He urged guests to emulate his gesture. The Liken of Ibefun, Oba Gideon Adetoye, described Prince Taiwo as a worthy son. He prayed God to grant him long

life. The monarch urged indigenes of the town to rise above board, excel in their chosen profession and always return home to develop the town.

PUBLIC PRESENTATION OF THE NICHE NEWSPAPER AT EKO HOTEL AND SUITES, VICTORIA ISLAND, LAGOS

• Chairman on the occasion, Prof Anya Anya and his wife, Inyang

•Managing Director / Editor in Chief, The Niche, Ikechukwu Amaechi (left) and President, Guild of Editors, Mr Femi Adesina

•Prof Mkpa Agu Nkpa (left) and Mr Badmus Mutalib

• Chairman, Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) Mr Felix Chukwu (left) and Mr Hakeem Bello

• Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Diaspora, Hon Abike Dabiri-Erewa and Executive Director, Mainstreet Bank, Mr Ano Anyanwu

• APGA National Chairman, Victor Umeh (left) and General Manager, Public Affairs, Nigeria Airspace Management Agency, Mr Supo Atobatele

THE NATION FRIDAY, AUGUST 29, 2014

BUSINESS EXTRA NIG to NCC: Allocate frequencies on regional basis

• From left: Senior Vice President/Divisional Head of Retail, Mr. Olu Akanmu; GMD/CEO, Mr. Lad Balogun; and Executive Director, Lagos/South West, Olufemi Bakre, all of First City Monument Bank Limited, at the launch of the bank’s 30th Anniversary Promo in Lagos.

Manufacturing drives economic growth, says Jonathan T HE manufacturing sec tor is Nigeria’s biggest driver of economic growth, President Goodluck Jonathan, has said, adding that the sector reported 22 per cent growth in 2013, compared with 14 per cent in 2012. Jonathan, who was represented by Vice President Namadi Sambo at the 42nd Annual General Meeting of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), in Lagos, yesterday, said capacity utilisation has increased from 46.3 per cent at the start of 2013, to 52.7 per cent at the end of 2013, with further improvements recorded in 2014. He said: “In 2013, the Central Bank of Nigeria, reported a 952 per cent increase in receipts from exports of manufactured products from Nigeria. This is indeed unprecedented. This shows that although we still have some

• ‘Over $12b investment recorded’

By Okwy Iroegbu-Chikezie

way to go, the government’s industrial agenda under the Nigerian Industrial Revolution Plan (NIRP) is working.” He said his administration has recorded progress in key sectors of the economy through the implementation of the NIRP. “In specific sectors, we have also made transformational progress. In automobiles, Nigeria can once again proudly boast as being one of the auto manufacturing centres of the world. The last time we could say this, was over 30 years ago. Since the Auto Policy launched by this administration in October 2013, we have seen three leading global brands commence vehicle assembly in Nigeria –

Nissan, Hyundai, and Peugeot. “We have also seen existing local players, such as Innosson in Nnewi attract new partners from China, to expand their capacity and output in Nigeria. Over 10 other companies, including other global brands, have shown interest and commenced plans for assembly operations in Nigeria. This is how you develop a country, to create jobs and wealth for Nigerians.” Jonathan said since the commencing the Sugar Master Plan of the NIRP, Nigeria has lined up over $3 billion of investments, across seven states, and in more than 15 projects across the country. “Over the next few years, these projects will make Ni-

geria self-sufficient in Sugar, and employ over a million Nigerians directly and indirectly. In Petrochemicals, for years Nigeria’s petrochemical sector was small and stagnant, despite Nigeria being a major oil and gas producer – this administration has changed this situation with our Industrial agenda. “ He said within the past year, the investments worth over $12 billion have been accomplished in petrochemicals, fertilizer, and refining - examples being the Dangote Petrochemical Complex, and Quatum Petrochemicals. He said existing players such as Indorama also continue to invest significantly in this sector, adding,”we are building the largest Gas Industrial City in Africa, in Ogidigben, Delta State, to support gas based manufacturing. This when completed, will support at least another $50 billion in extra investments in this sector.

48,000 dormant firms to go, says CAC

HE Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) yesterday said it will delist 48,000 companies from its register for not filing annual returns since their incorporation. It said the striking off of the dormant companies is in line with Section 525 of the Corporate and Allied Matters Act (CAMA). Presenting it’s statutory report at the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) annual general conference in Owerri, the Imo State capital, CAC Registrar-General, Mr Bello Mahmud said 36,376 limited liability companies

From Joseph Jibueze, Owerri

were registered between January and June this year. According to him, 39,376 business names and 4,329 incorporated trustees were registered this year. Limited Liability Companies registered till date is 1,201,068, he added. Mahmud said with the decentralisation of CAC’s operations, “start-to-finish services” are now available at the two Lagos offices, Kaduna, Kano and Enugu, while Port Harcourt office will begin operations by end

of September. He said: “With the start-tofinish system, the designated offices no longer have to send new applications to Abuja for processing. “They have been given the privilege to receive applications, print certificates of incorporation and issue same directly to customers.” Lawyers raised complaints about difficulties they go through in registering businesses at the CAC, alleging bottle-necks that cause undue delays and embarrassment. First Vice-Chairman, NBA Lagos Branch and Senior Lec-

turer at the Nigerian Law School, Mr Nelson Ogbuanya, said there is need for approving officers of corporate names at CAC to use the specified guidelines. He alleged that the officers give business name approvals based on their discretion, which is often inconsistent and disputed, leading to constant quarrel with lawyers. A Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Mr Rafiu Lawal-Rabbana, urged the NBA to make an official written complaint to the CAC in the interest of “those who do business there.”

‘Why Nigerians can’t create jobs’

INISTER of Indus try, Trade and In vestment, Dr. Olusegun Aganga has identified over-dependence of the country on oil for more than 54 years as one major reason the country cannot create jobs, increase wealth and accelerate growth. Aganga who spoke yesterday in Makurdi, the Benue State capital while delivering a keynote address at the 7th National Council of Industry, Trade and Investment, said it was in realisation of the need to diversify the

From Uja Emmanuel, Makurdi

economy that President Goodluck Jonathan embarked on bold economic reforms outside the oil sector to create jobs and other opportunities for Nigerians. He said: “As it is now, the cardinal point at the centre of this reform is the role of the National Council on Industry, Trade and Investment and Business Development. “It means that all of us have roles to play in restructuring the Nigerian economy in order to attract more local and foreign inves-

tors; increase value- addition; promote inclusive growth; eradicate poverty and create more jobs for the people.” Aganga who was represented at the event by Dr. Samuel Ortom, Minister of State for Industry, Trade and Investment, stressed that Nigeria must depend on its industrial capacity and manufacture goods for it to grow and develop; noting that without it, the cannot have a fair share of global wealth. He said: “To position Nigeria as a leading industrial hub in the world, Mr. President launched Industrial Revolution

Plan (NIRP). We have identified industry groups where we have comparative advantage and can become number one in Africa, or top 10 globally over a period of time. These industry groups are under agro allied and processing; metal and solid minerals processing; oil and gas related industries.” Speaking on the occasion, Governor Gabriel Suswam said the theme for this year’s summit was apt and timely, adding that there was the need for the council to maintain the momentum for change in the county.

NE of the major stakeholders in the telecoms sector, the Nigeria Internet Group (NIG), has urged the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to stop allocating frequencies to operators on a national basis. The group argued that frequency is a scare commodity in the telecoms industry, insisting that such a scarce resource should not be allowed to be tied down by any person or group of persons under any guise. Speaking yesterday at Oriental Hotel, Lagos, venue of a Stakeholders Forum to Discuss Modalities for the Auction of Spectrum in the 2.6Gigahertz (GHz) band organised by the NCC, the group’s President, Engr Bayo Banjo said from experiences gathered from past spectrum auctions, people who bid and win only just tie down the resource without putting it into use, adding that regional or state allocation of spectrum will be healthy for the industry and the country. Banjo argued that national frequency allocation has a major disadvantage that in the event of failure to deploy services nationwide in line with the status of the licence, withdrawal or retrieval of such licences become difficult as owners will naturally run to court to frustrate any such attempt by the regulator. He said: “The lesson from the last 2.3GHz auction, whether it was the last one or the ones before, is that we should never, ever allocate frequencies on a national basis. This is a most important issue. If you look at

By Lucas Ajanaku

the.2.3GHz, some of them have not even left Lagos; some have done just Lagos and Abuja, some Port Harcourt or whatever. When do you think we are going to see them operate in Sokoto or Zamfara or other far flung places?” According to him, if the NCC insists on issuing national spectrum licences, it should split the licences into 36 representing the states of the federation or into 72 so that whoever is issued the licences will append his signature on each of the licences so that in the event of a failure to deploy services in any of the states/regions, it will be easy for the NCC to retrieve that particular licence. He said if done this way, it becomes much easier for the judges to decide on the case should the licencee decides to go to court. He said: “What I am saying is that when you want to issue a national licence, issue 36 or 72 licences so that when someone doesn’t roll out in a particular state, it is easier legally to retrieve that frequency. “If frequencies are allocated as national licences under one licence, there is a legal difficulty in trying to retrieve that frequency. “South Korea for instance has the highest density of internet penetration and the country is just using the 2.3 GHz. So when I look at it: all the excuses we need spectrum, we need this; we need that. Let us be logical on this issue: Do not allocate frequency on a national level, if you want to give a national licence, break it down into 36 or 72 different zones.”

Akwa Ibom backs PPP for Ibaka Deep Seaport

HE Akwa Ibom gov ernment has pledged support for the Public Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement towards the realisation of the Ibaka Deep Seaport in the state. Governor Godswill Akpabio stated this during the presentation of Ibaka Deep Seaport Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission, to him by its Chairman, Senator Ken Nnamani at the Executive council Chambers of of the Governor’s Office, Uyo. Akpabio said:“Over the years, my administration has partnered with private investors for industrialisation. “And I thank you for the presentation because it has kept hope alive that the Ibaka Deep

Seaport would be realised as we would continue to work with the public-private sector. “We have worked really hard to fast track the emergence of Ibaka Deep Seaport, which has a free trade zone. “We acquired 14,900 hectares of land along the coastline to prepare for a take-off and we also received a licence from the Federal Government for the commencement of the project. “The Ibaka Deep Seaport would change the matrix of the unemployed in the country. It will attract investors to the state. Besides, my administration is committed to building a sustainable growth through infrastructure in the state.”

Picketing disrupts Air France/ KLM operations

IR France/KLM flight operations at the Murtala Mohammed International Airport (MMIA) Lagos were yesterday disrupted for hours following the picketing of the two carriers by the National Union of Air Transport Employees(NUATE). The two airlines run combined operations under a merger arrangement. The union said the picketing became necessary following the refusal of the management of the airline to review the salary structure of its Nigerian

By Kelvin Osa Okunbor

workers. Its Deputy General Secretary, Comrade Olayinka Abioye said the picketing of the airline was supported by the workers who claimed alleged unjust treatment over the years by the foreign carrier. Abioye noted that before the one-day exercise, the union had met with the management of the airline thrice but rather than agree to their demands, the management insisted that the salary structure would not be reviewed.

THE NATION FRIDAY, AUGUST 29, 2014

EQUITIES NIGERIAN STOCK EXCHANGE DAILY SUMMARY AS AT 28-08-14

25-07-14 DAILY SUMMARY AS AT 28-08-14

THE NATION FRIDAY, AUGUST 29, 2014

EQUITIES

Equities break downtrend with N79b gain

FTER five days of sustained downtrend, Nigerian equities regained the upside yesterday as investors sought to rebuild their portfolios on bargain transactions created by the recent downtrend. With 31 gainers to 20 losers, the market showed widespread investors’ appetite. A total of 118 stocks were traded yesterday at the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), with 67 stocks closing flat on their opening prices. Aggregate market value of all quoted companies, which had reversed from its N14 trillion mark, rose by N79 billion to close at N13.657 trillion as against its opening value of N13.578 trillion. The composite index at the stock market, the All Share Index (ASI), rose from 41,121.12 points to close at 41,359.87 points, representing an increase of 0.58 per cent. The uptrend pushed the average year-to-date return 0.07 per cent.

Stories by Taofik Salako Capital Market Editor

Besides the large number of gainers, the bullish rally was stimulated by gains recorded by several highly capitalised stocks such a Forte Oil, United Bank for Africa, Guaranty Trust Bank, FBN Holdings, Zenith Bank, Oando and Nigerian Breweries among others. Forte Oil topped the gainers’ list with a gain of N5.25 to close at N225.80. Ashaka Cement followed with a gain of N1.12 to close at N33.12. International Breweries added N1 to close at N28. Guaranty Trust Bank rose by 99 kobo to close at N29.87. Okomu Oil Palm gathered 98 kobo to close at N34.49. Oando chalked up 65 kobo to close at N26.15. Zenith Bank garnered 45 kobo to close at N24.75. FBN Holdings gained 39 kobo to close at N14.49. Nigerian Breweries

rose by 27 kobo to N175 while United Bank for Africa rallied by 25 kobo to N7.44 per share. Level of activities also picked up considerably with a turnover of 263.11 million shares worth N2.50 billion in 4,622 deals. The financial services sector was the most active with a turnover of 190.88 million shares valued at N1.16 billion in 2,238 deals. Sterling Bank was the most active stock with a turnover of 62.22 million shares valued at N152.04 million in 170 deals. On the downside, Lafarge Africa recorded the highest loss of N2 to close at N118. Northern Nigeria Flour Mills followed with a drop of N1.05 to close at N19.95. Conoil lost 90 kobo to close at N67.10. PZ Cussons Nigeria dropped by 50 kobo to close at N35. Dangote Flour Mills lost 34 kobo to close at N7.16 while UAC of Nigeria declined by 23 kobo to close at N58.52 per share.

Global stocks, bond yields fall as anxiety rises

TOCK markets around the world fell on Thursday after Ukraine said Russia moved more troops into the country, escalating the risk of the region’s crisis spreading, as nervous investors shifted money into gold and United States and German government bonds. The euro hit a 21-month low against the Swiss franc and fell against the yen as worries about intensified fighting between the Ukrainian military and pro-Russian separatists drove investors to seek safe-haven currencies. Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko said Russian forces had entered Ukraine, and he convened his security and defense council to decide how to respond. “Geopolitics is driving the market again, and this latest escalation in Ukraine comes as European stocks were ripe for a pullback,” said Alexandre Baradez, chief market analyst at IG France. The tensions put riskier assets firmly under pressure with the Standard & Poor’s 500 index .SPX falling below the 2,000 threshold following a record close on Wednesday.

In midday US trading, The Dow Jones industrial average .DJI fell 52.24 points, or 0.31 percent, to 17,069.77, the S&P 500 .SPX shed 3.99 points, or 0.2 percent, to 1,996.13 and the Nasdaq Composite .IXIC declined 10.15 points, or 0.22 percent, to 4,559.47. Reuters reported that the pan-European FTSEurofirst 300 index .FTEU3 snapped its three-day winning streak, falling 0.7 percent at 1,369.15 points. Tokyo’s Nikkei closed down 0.5 percent at 15,459.86. The MSCI world equity index .MIWD00000PUS, which tracks shares in 45 nations, fell 1.81 points or 0.42 percent, to 430.44. Meanwhile, ten-year German Bund yields DE10YT=RR hit a record low of 0.868 percent, and 30-year U.S. bond yields US30YT=RR touched 3.059 percent, the lowest in 14 months. Bond yields worldwide have fallen in recent days as traders bet on new stimulus from the European Central Bank as soon as next week in a bid to avert deflation in the euro zone. German inflation came in at a steady 0.8 percent ahead of Friday’s euro zone num-

ber. Corresponding Spanish figures saw a slightly smaller-than-forecast drop as revised second quarter GDP held steady. These weak inflation readings overshadowed an upwardly revised U.S. second-quarter economic growth reading. In the currency market, the dollar and euro softened against safehaven yen, though the greenback retraced much of its earlier decline on the surprise upward GDP revision. The dollar was down 0.05 percent to 103.79 yen JPY but flat against the Swiss franc at 0.9148 franc CHF. The euro fell 0.3 percent to 136.62 yen EURJPY and declined 0.1 percent versus the Swiss franc to 1.2055 francs EURCHF, close to a 21-month low. Safe-haven demand pushed spot gold prices higher for a third day, rising 0.5 percent at 1,289.50 an ounce. London oil prices held above their recent 14-month lows on short-term supply concerns. Brent crude LCOc1 for October delivery was last up 19 cents or 0.18 percent at $102.91 a barrel, while U.S. crude futures CLc1 were up 72 cents or 0.77 percent, at $94.60 per barrel.

Investors stake $9bn on emerging market stocks, bonds

MERGING markets took in only $9 billion in stock and bond investments in August, below the average for the past three months and lackluster even compared to prior Augusts, a global financial industry group has said. Inflows into debt markets were particularly low, and bond issuance fell by half compared to the same month last year, the Institute of International Finance, or IIF, said in its monthly report on portfolio investments into emerging markets. “While the usual seasonal lull surely contributed to the weakness, the sharp slowdown in portfolio flows in August could also mark the beginning of a period of greater caution among global investors towards -emerging markets,” Charles Collyns, the IIF’s chief economist, said in a statement. Reuters reported that portfolio investment into emerging markets hit a twoyear high last month at $44 billion, and totaled $36 billion in June, IIF data showed. The IIF said much of August’s decline was driven by outflows from emerging Europe and Africa, though inflows to Asia and Latin America also fell. The slowdown in investment flows comes even as emerging market stocks touched new three-year highs on Wednesday, supported by the prospect of further monetary stimulus in the euro zone, while Moscow-listed shares rose after tentative signs of diplomatic progress over the Ukraine crisis. Expectations are growing that the European Central Bank will further ease monetary policy to counter sluggish growth and low inflation. Additional easing would boost demand for riskier emerging stocks, which are up some 9 percent this year.

THE NATION FRIDAY, AUGUST 29, 2014

MONEYLINK

New CEO for Mint as board dissolves management T HE Board of Directors of the Nigerian Security Printing and Minting (NSPM) Plc has approved the appointment of Joseph Ugbo as the substantive Managing Director/CEO. This followed the dissolution of the firm’s Executive Management and an order that the current Acting Managing Director and two Executive Directors retire from the company. Also approved is Alhaji Abbas Umar Masanawa as Executive Director in charge of Finance and Strategy. A statement signed by NSPM Company Secretary/ Legal Adviser, Lawal Adamu, said the changes are in line with the new strategic direction of the company aimed at repositioning the NSPM as an efficient and profit-oriented company that would serve not

Stories by Collins Nweze

only the Banknote and Security Printing needs of Nigeria, but also those of the West African sub-region. The statement described Ugbo as a seasoned Chemical Engineer with over 29 years of engineering and management experience with internationally reputed manufacturing companies. Prior to this appointment, he had worked in various levels and countries of Unilever Plc and rose to the position of Head of Manufacturing, where he coordinated all General Managers in manufacturing in the entire company. From 2009 to 2014, he was General Manager of Dangote Flour Mills Plc in Calabar. Ugbo obtained his Bachelor’s Degree in Chemical Engineering from the

FCMB rewards promo winners

University of Lagos in 1982 and an MBA from the Lagos State University in 1999. He has also completed extensive trainings in Banknote Production and Security Printing from the Royal Joh. Enschede in The Netherlands. Alhaji Masanawa has over 17 years of cognate banking experience and rose to the position of Deputy General Manager in Zenith Bank Plc. Prior to his appointment; he was Special Assistant to the Governor of the Central Bank. He holds a Bachelors Degree in Agricultural Economics from Ahmadu Bello University, and an MBA in Finance from the University of Maiduguri. He also completed courses and programmes from the Harvard Business School, London Business School and the University of Oxford.

• FCMB CEO Ladi Balogun

IRST City Monument Bank (FCMB) Limited has continued to keep its promise of rewarding customers in the lender’s 30th Anniversary Promo Reloaded. The reward came during the second promo draws held across all its regional and zonal operations nationwide. FCMB has so far rewarded several customers with cash prizes, LCD Tv sets, DVDs, GOtv decoders and generators, won in the monthly electronic selections ahead of the grand presentation of

three brand new SUVs to lucky winners who would emerge at the end of the promo in September. Meanwhile latest customers to win the monthly star prizes of N1 million are Mr. Ose Idasho (Northern Region); Ekemini Moses (South east/South south) and Hon. Hamzat Ganiyu Oladunjoye from the Lagos and South west region. Several other customers equally went home with other prizes at the event that was witnessed by officials of Consumer Protection Council (CPC), National Lottery Regulatory Commission (NLRC) and other dignitaries, including community leaders and government representatives. The promo winners praised FCMB for its unblemished history in fulfilling its promise to customers. In particular, winners of the N1 million star prizes promised to utilise the money judiciously.

holds SME seminar in Jos Unified Payments processes National eID cards FirstBank S part of its ongoing initiative for the sustained development of

NIFIED Payments has expressed its commitment in the processing of payment application in the new National Electronic ID Card (eID) being issued by the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC). Unified Payments is a payment transaction processing company owned by Nigerian banks. In a statement, the Unified Payments said its role in the project is to further demonstrate its leadership position in the e-payment industry. It explained that with the eID card, Nigerians will have the ability to deposit funds, receive social benefits, pay for goods and services at merchant locations within and

outside the country as well as draw cash from Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) around the world. Under the processing arrangement, Nigerians identity data will be hosted and managed exclusively by NIMC while payment data will be hosted and managed by Nigerian banks and Unified Payments. Managing Director and CEO of Unified Payments, Agada Apochi, commended NIMC for the bold step and the technological achievement, adding that the initiative would help drive financial inclusion as well as stimulate economic activities in the country. Director General and CEO of NIMC, Chris ‘E Onyemenam said Unified Payments was selected as

the pilot processor of the payment aspect of the card based on its exceptional track record. “Being the first Processor in Nigeria certified to process EMV chip cards, the first to achieve the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI-DSS) certification as well as its ownership by Nigeria banks, we have to entrust them with the role of processing the payment application in the National Identity Card,” he said. Unified Payment Services Limited otherwise known as Unified Payments is a card-neutral and option-neutral Payments Service Provider founded in 1997 and owned by a consortium of Nigerian banks.

the Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) sectors of the Nigerian Economy, FirstBank through its SMEConnect platform recently organised a SMEConnect forum in Jos, Plateau State. The Seminar series with an overriding theme of “We can help with that”, structured into a one-day workshop across each region, was designed to provide practical help on relevant challenges faced by small businesses and focuses on capacity building, business plan writing, marketing products and services as well as accessing bank loans and documentation. Speaking at the event in Jos, the Group Executive, Retail Banking North, FirstBank, Abdullahi Ibrahim said “We believe that the SMEs are at the heart of national development, contributing greatly to the gross domestic product of our country. It is on this premise that we introduced the Open Seminars which is conducted in partnership with the Enterprise Development Center (EDC) of the Pan Atlantic University a centre renowned for the development and entrepreneurial skills acquisition of small business owners, budding entrepreneurs as well as reskilling of established entrepreneurs”. The Jos Edition is the sixth in the SMEConnect seminar series which has held previously in Port Harcourt, Kano, Kaduna, Ibadan and Aba.

DATA BANK

MEMORANDUM QUOTATIONS Name

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

168.45 9.17 1.12 1.19 0.69 1.39 1,676.09 1,118.84 121.30 121.16 1,117.51 1.2564 1.2237 0.9034 1,0739

• UBA BALANCED FUND • UBA BOND FUND • UBA EQUITY FUND • UBA MONEY MARKET FUND

Bid Price 167.01 9.08 1.12 1.19 0.69 1.33 1,676.09 1,118.03 120.45 120.30 1,116.70 1.2475 1.2237 0.8857 1.0739

PREMBREW INTBREW LIVESTOCK ASHAKACEM UBA

12.0%

CHANGE

Foreign Reserves Oil Price (Bonny Light/b)

O/PRICE

C/PRICE

1.81

1.90

0.09

27.00

28.00

1.00

3.14

3.25

0.11

32.00

33.12

Currency

Buying (N)

Selling (N)

$39.6b

US Dollar

154.73

155.73

$110.44

Pounds Sterling

256.465

258.1225

N15.9 trillion.

Euro

204.1662

205.4857

1.12

Credit to private Sector (CPS)

N17.2 trillion

Swiss Franc

168.8455

169.9367

Primary Lending Rate (PLR)

Yen

1.4876

1.4975

CFA

0.294

0.314

234.7445

236.2616

Yuan/Renminbi

25.1466

25.31

7.44

0.25

29.87

0.99

TRANSCORP

5.81

6.00

0.19

NASCON

9.90

10.19

0.29

OKOMUOIL

33.51

43.49

0.98

FBNH

14.10

14.49

0.39

LOSERS AS AT 28-08-14

C/PRICE

Amount Sold in ($) 346.43m 398.77m 349.67m

Money Supply (M2)

7.19

O/PRICE

Amount Offered in ($) 350m 400m 350m

CBN EXCHANGE RATES August 26, 2014

Monetary Policy Rate

28.88

NNFM

ECONOMIC INDICATORS

8.3%

GUARANTY

SYMBOL

Transaction Dates 27/08/2014 25/08/2014 20/08/2014

Inflation: July

GAINERS AS AT 28-08-14

SYMBOL

RETAIL DUTCH AUCTION SYSTEM (RDAS)

CHANGE

21.00

19.95

-1.5

IKEJAHOTEL

0.82

0.78

-0.04

MAYBAKER

1.44

1.37

-0.07

COSTAIN

1.08

1.03

-0.05

16.5%

NIGERIAN INTER-BANK OFFERED RATES (NIBOR)

Tenor

WAUA

Rate (%)

Overnight (O/N)

10.500

Riyal

41.2558

41.5225

12.175

12.101

SDR

235.0039

236.5227

13.328

13.225

14.296

14.-85

FOREX RATES

NEIMETH

1.09

1.04

-0.05

NPFMCRFBK

1.10

1.05

-0.05

R-DAS ($/N)

157.29

DANGFLOUR

7.50

7.16

-0.05

Interbank ($/N)

162.75

VONO

1.14

1.09

-0.05

WAPIC

0.78

0.75

-0.03

Parallel ($/N)

167.50

CORNERST

0.59

0.57

-0.02

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

THE NATION FRIDAY, AUGUST 29, 2014

NEWS Six aspirants protest

Hospital workers protest Ebola victim’s body in teaching hospital’s morgue Continued from page 4

test as ridiculous, stressing that everybody was concerned about Ebola. Tobin-West said: “If the persons who claimed to be protesting are tired of working in UPTH, let them resign. Are they working in the mortuary to now complain that body of Ebola victim is in our mortuary? “I am not aware of any protest today (yesterday) in UPTH. The Federal Government’s team on Ebola was in the hospital, with all efforts being made to prevent infection. Everybody is concerned. Those who claimed to have pro-

tested should not cry more than the bereaved. There is nothing to worry about. I am assuring the patients, their relatives and other people who will come to UPTH, that the hospital is very safe.” With quarantine, fumigation and adequate precautionary measures being taken by the management, saw Tobin-West and the Federal Government’s team, the body would not infect anybody. Rivers State Governor Chibuike Amaechi visited a temporary quarantine site in Oduoha, Emohua Local Government Area of the state to control the

spread of the Ebola virus. He said the facility would be upgraded to enable experts and professionals to properly manage and control the spread of the disease. Amaechi assured that the involvement of technical partners, such as the World Health Organisation (WHO), Medicins Sans Frontieres (MSF), also known as Doctors Without Borders, the American Embassy and the Federal Government would ensure that the disease is tackled and eliminated. “This is a temporary quarantine site for the Ebola virus and we are working on it to upgrade

the facility. The place is a bit out of town and we want to start from here while we continue to search for a permanent site,” the governor said. He urged Rivers residents who have symptoms of the infection to boldly inform the government as plans have been put in place to give swift attention and treatment to the patients. Amaechi advised youths and people of Oduoha Community and neighbouring communities in the Emohua Local Government Area not to panic over the temporary site, adding that the Ebola virus is not air borne as confirmed by medical experts.

Cameroon bombs Boko Haram camp Continued from page 4

Islamist terrorist group Boko Haram has advanced greatly in their rampage and killings, to the extent of declaring a Caliphate in Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State, a town bordering Borno and Adamawa states. “As it is well known, the catholic diocese of Maiduguri covers the whole of Yobe, Borno and Adamawa states, the three states under strict emergency rule. “Apart from the churches within Maiduguri that have great share of such attacks by the terrorists group, all the churches on the major road linking Maiduguri and Adamawa state have been closed down due to same acts of terrorism. St Timothy’s Bama had been under siege since last year. The Parish priest, Rev. Fr. Timothy Cosmas, had long been relocated to a different Parish. At the early part of this year St. Peter’s Pulka was badly attacked. Thanks to God the Pastor Fr. James John was luckily unavailable. The terrorists searched and wanted to kill the holy Priest of God. “Lately, precisely on Friday the 22th August 2014, the dreaded group had moved steadily and yet more boldly into Gwo-

za, which is in Borno State and the neighbouring Madagali Local Government Area in Adamawa State. Declaring a caliphate!!! The assisting priest of St. Denis Madagali, Fr. Aiden Ibrahim, fled the Parish with some of his Parishioners to the mountains, upon hearing serious fire battle from the terrorists. Since the curfew declared after wards was dusk to dawn, they had to travel on foot through the mountains up on till Michika, a neighbouring local government area where movement was free. Since then Madagali and Gwoza had been greatly under siege and strictly controlled by the Boko Haram sects.” Fr. Gideon said the situation in Madagali remained unclear, adding that people who escaped from the town through the Gwoza hills to Michika could explain it. “Madagali is a local government that borders Borno and Adamawa states, the closest town to Gwoza . It has a large number of Catholics, and members of other Christian denominations. And a good number of Muslims. It is quite eloquent that terrorism has no friend, but it is abundantly clear that the Christians are worst hit. It might surprise

you to know that no one knows the state of affairs in this terrorist zone. “Report reaching the Director Social Communications, Rev. Fr. Gideon Obasogie, in Maiduguri has it that the whole town and the parish rectory have been occupied by the terrorists, so many structures and items have been vandalised. Dozen killed and a lot of church structures have been burnt down. Christians in the town are really in a terribly situation; a moment of great persecution. Christian men were caught and beheaded; the women were forced to become Muslims and were taken as wives to the terrorists. The houses of Christians that have

fled are now occupied by the Haramists . Their cars are used by the terrorists. Some Boko Haram sympathisers around the town identify Christian homes to be occupied and the Christians hiding were also identified and killed. Strict Sharia Law has been promulgated, as observed by a woman who luckily escaped the dead zone. “The situation, as it is now, has really and truly gone out of control. People are finding it really hard, citizens are being killed in their numbers. Hope Nigeria would be real in handling the dwindling state of insecurity that has enveloped the entire North east,” the statement said.

Don’t panic over Ebola, says Amaechi Continued from page 4 was doing everything possible to contain the effects and spread of the ebola virus. He disclosed that his administration has the material and human resources needed to fight and defeat the deadly virus. Amaechi said: “Officials from the Federal Ministry of Health and other international agencies are already here (in Rivers State), working with the state’s Ministry of Health, to contain and combat the virus.

“We must all endeavour to adhere to basic hygiene rules. Wash your hands regularly with soap and water and avoid unnecessary body contacts like shaking of hands. “Anyone with symptoms indicative of diarrhea, high fever, vomiting, abdominal pain, excessive weakness of the body and unexplained bleeding, should call these our ebola emergency numbers: 08167733939, 07036321076, 08033124314 or our state emergency call centre: 112.”

Scores put under watch as Ebola kills another doctor Continued from page 4

ing that apart from religious houses, organisers must seek clearance from the government before any public gathering. He said it was part of the measures to contain the spread of the virus. Besides, he said the resumption date for schools across the country is still tentative as it depends on the situation. Given the latest update on the virus, Prof. Chukwu said: “The total number of cases of EVD cases so far reported in Nigeria stands at 15, The total number of cases treated at our isolation ward stands at 13. The total number of those discharged is seven. Total number of deaths is five, and the total number currently under treatment is one and the

person is stable and improving clinically.” He explained the change in figure from the previous 13 which was announced sone few days ago. “You will also notice that the number of cases has increased from 13 to 15, you will also notice that this additional two we not treated in the isolation ward in Lagos, “ the minister said, adding: “One of them is primary contact of the index case (Mr. Patrick Sawyer). Even though presently he does not have EVD but further laboratory tests indicate that he had suffered EVD. “This primary contact of Mr. Sawyer’s evaded our surveillance team in the last week of July 2014 and travelled out of

Lagos to Port Harcourt where, as we now understand, he consulted with a doctor and was apparently treated for some symptoms. After four days, following a manhunt for him, he returned to Lagos by which time he was found to be without symptoms. “This case would have been of no further interest since he had completed the 21 days of surveillance without any other issue, but for the fact that the doctor who treated him died last Friday, 22nd August 2014. “Following the report of this death by the doctor’s widow the next day, the case was thoroughly investigated and laboratory analysis showed that his doctor died from EVD. “As a result, several contacts have now been traced, registered

and placed under surveillance. However, because the widow is now symptomatic, she has been quarantined, pending the outcome of laboratory tests on her.” Chukwu urged Port Harcourt residents “not to panic over this situation as the experience we have gathered from Lagos and Enugu indicate that there is no cause for alarm when you have the government fully in control of the situation”. He said the incident Management Committee had deployed a “very strong team” to Port Harcourt to work with the state’s health authorities. He added that secondary contacts in Enugu would be followed up till tomorrow (today) when they are all expected to be discharged from surveillance.

•Ribadu Continued from page 4 recently after earlier defecting from PDP to other political parties. “Going by the provisions of Sections 50 (9) and (10) and 8 (b) of the Constitution of the Peoples Democratic Party 2012 (as amended), Ribadu, Gundiri and Modibbo are required to sustain continued membership of the PDP for a minimum of two years to be eligible to contest for the post of governor, while Marwa and Kama remain on probation for at least one year, during which they will not be eligible to vote or be voted for except they are granted waivers as stipulated. “Both sides have not met the requirements. The purpose of the waiting period, subject to waiver, is to test the fidelity of persons who have joined or defected to the party. “These provisions are important as they are actually meant to ensure that only credible and loyal members of the party are allowed the benefits and privileges of the party and also to ward off the proclivity of Nigerian politicians to defect from one party to the other at will without consequences. “That, notwithstanding, we would ordinarily have had no objection to their being granted waiver to contest the governorship election, but what we cannot consent to is their presenting themselves for contest without subjecting themselves to the constitutional provisions of seeking waivers and strictly adhering to the processes, and for the national leadership to act likewise. For Ribadu, Marwa and Gundiri, their waiver requests, if any, have not followed the processes constitutionally required. “While the letter forwarding their names by the state chapter of the party did not expressly recommend them for waiver, we know for a fact also that neither the State, LGA, nor Ward executives chapters sat to deliberate on the issue and make or decline the required recommendations. “For Modibbo and Kama they are not even said to have applied for the waiver as if though it is not applicable to them. “Under the circumstances, if these are granted waivers, or if they are allowed to contest, it would mean not only that some people are made immune to the provisions of the constitution of the party, thereby denigrating the status and sanctity of the party constitution and creating conditions for drift and anarchy, but also reducing our whole

democratisation process to a joke. “All we ask for is for them, like all members, to abide by the party’s constitution and tow its processes. Modibbo described as “baseless and ridiculous”, a claim by his co-contestant, Dr Umar Ardo, that he (Modibbo) is not a member of the party.” In a statement in Abuja by his Media Assistant, Julius Toba, Modibbo said he had been a member of PDP since 1998. The statement said: “As much as Dr. Ahmed Mohammed Modibbo would not like to join issues with any politician or fellow aspirants in this race, we cannot afford to watch and allow a few unserious elements to have a field day running him down. “Just like other allegations made against any forward-looking politician of Adamawa extraction by Dr Umar Ardo in the past; this latest one too smacks of bad blood, it is ridiculous, baseless and laughable in its entirety” “For avoidance of doubt and in our effort to put the records straight, Modibbo is a foundation member of PDP, a party he had contributed immensely towards since its inception. He first got his initiation into PDP during the 1998 Jos Convention, after spending two sleepless nights” “Since 2009 till date, we have documentary evidence indicating that my principal is a key financial member of PDP both at the state and national levels” “For instance, commencing from January 2009, he had received no fewer than ten letters of appreciation from Adamawa state executive committee of the party for various of his philanthropic gestures” “We have made available to the press Modibbo’s PDP membership card with evidence of his yearly payment of party dues. We therefore challenge Dr Ardo to present similar profile of his own contributions to the party, a platform upon which he wants to run for governorship in Adamawa.” Ribadu in a terse reaction signed by his media aide, Abdulaziz Abdulaziz, stated. “Those huffing and buffing over the entrance of Mallam Nuhu Ribadu into this race portray themselves as empty shells that they are. The attempt to truncate a legitimate process is totally condemnable and uncalled for. “There is no basis for opposition to granting of waiver. We don’t seek for advantage over any aspirant. What we advocate for is for everybody to be allowed to participate in an open and transparent manner. No party member is superior to another”. The petition, which was addressed to the chairman of the party’s Governorship Waiver Panel who incidentally is the National Organising Secretary, was copied to the national chairman,

Ribadu waiver request row grows as PDP leaders kick Continued from page 4

governorship candidate, Mr. Markus Gundiri who are also seeking waiver to contest in the coming governorship election. Clark told a news conference in Abuja yesterday that he suspected the defection of the former EFCC chair to be a grand conspiracy by some people in and outside the party to use Ribadu to destroy the chances of President Goodluck Jonathan in Adamawa State in next year’s election. In an open letter to PDP Chairman Adamu Muazu, Clark said: “Welcoming Alhaji Ribadu so enthusiastically, granting him an obnoxious waiver to pick up party governorship nomination

papers is nothing other than grand plan against our president, party and the innocent people of Nigeria. How can we so brazenly break our own rules to destabilise our party, if not in a dangerous palace coup in the interests of high-level element within and beyond the party for reasons best known to them. What is this man of many, and no distinct co our, bringing into the party? His antecedents are many; alas, not clean. “My respected chairman, is this the paperweight politician in his Adamawa state which gave the president the highest number of votes, behind Taraba, that is being celebrated as a viable candidate to fly the

party’s flag in 2015? A Presidential candidate turned governorship aspirant, being celebrated? And you are from that zone, and should know much more than I. Why do we seem so unmindful of the collateral damage this abnormal development, its timing and all, would cause he party, in terms of loss of enthusiasm, indeed, membership in massive numbers. Has something gone into our eyes and brains, or we are all locked in voodoo charms of some fifth-columnists working out some wicked, unpatriotic, subterranean agenda, in league without opponents, to undercut the President, therefore, the party

and nation? “Also note that that the recrimations over, God forbid, the downfall of the president and the party, will first be visited upon the leadership. “Please note that names of possible internal blacklegs are beginning to pop up here and there. It appears that our party has begun to feel so selfassured that it is not mindful of the very present danger of well-planned infiltrations by the opposition. How else can anyone consider Alhaji Ribadu as a reasonable person to join the party at the top, given an unheard of less than onemonth waiver, by the powers that be in the party, knowing his channel of sustenance and

strategic directives? “Where did Ribadu get the more than N1billion and 100 vehicles he has launched his campaign with? “In conclusion, My Chairman, I boldly aver that the party, indeed, all Nigerians know very well that Alhaji Ribadu carries no political or electoral value. “His entry into this dirty fray is no more that the use of a political prostitute, being brought in as a willing pawn, by some internal party blacklegs, with their external collaborators, in an invidious clique, desperate, even defying the constitution, to carry a coup against the person, rights and constituency of the president of

the Federal Republic of Nigeria. “This is no more than one of many schemes to infiltrate the PDP, hoping that, God forbid, their moles would win elections on the popularity of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, and switch over to the opposition. “I write and publish this Open Letter, for the benefit of the party leadership as well as the rank and file, indeed, all Nigerians, for necessary vigilance. I do with the purest sincerity of a heart troubled by the possibilities of a man-made disaster to the party, and its inexorable cascade of unfathomable consequences for the entire national body polity.“

THE NATION FRIDAY, AUGUST 29, 2014

FOREIGN NEWS Zambia: President Sata sacks minister

Russian troops deployed in Ukraine

AMBIA’S leader has sacked his justice minister, who is seen as a potential successor, amid rumours the president is gravely ill. President Michael Sata, 77, has not been seen in public since June and has missed several recent summits. A presidential statement did not give any reasons for dismissing Wynter Kabimba as both minister and secretary general of the governing party. Officials insist the president is in good health. Finance Minister Alexander Chikwanda, who is also Mr Sata’s uncle and is seen as another potential successor, this week said that a faction in the governing Patriotic Front was trying to take power.

KRAINE’S President Petro Poroshenko has accused Russia of deploying its troops in the east of his country. His remarks came as proRussian rebels opened a new front in the south by seizing the coastal town of Novoazovsk. Nato says it has detected a significant increase of Russian arms being supplied to the rebels over the past two weeks. Russia has denied that its forces have crossed Ukraine’s

•Zambia

border. At least 2,119 people have been killed in four months of fighting. The United Nations Security Council is to hold an emergency meeting in New York on Thursday at 18:00 GMT to discuss the crisis. Nato Brigadier General Niko Tak told the BBC that there had been a “significant escalation in the level and sophistication of Russia’s military interference in Ukraine” over the past two weeks. This satellite image provid-

ed by the Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe shows what Nato identifies as Russian self-propelled artillery in Ukraine “[Nato has] detected large quantities of advanced weapons, including air defence systems, artillery, tanks, and armoured personnel carriers being transferred to separatist forces in eastern Ukraine,” he said. “Russia is reinforcing and resupplying separatist forces in a blatant attempt to change the momentum of the fight-

ing, which is currently favouring the Ukrainian military.” More than 1,000 Russian troops are operating inside Ukraine, both supporting the separatists and fighting on their side, according to Nato. But Russia’s ambassador to the EU, Vladimir Chizhov, said Nato had “never produced a single piece of evidence” for its accusations. He said the only Russian soldiers on Ukrainian soil were 10 paratroopers captured earlier this week.

If the president were to die in office, there would elections within 90 days. Vice-President Guy Scott, of British descent, is not eligible to succeed him because both of his parents were not born in Zambia.

Ebola : WHO warns virus could infect 20,000

HE World Health Organization says the deadly Ebola outbreak in West Africa could infect more than 20,000 people before it is brought under control. The UN agency said the number of cases could already be four times higher than the 3,000 currently registered. It also called on airlines to resume “vital” flights across the region, saying travel bans were threatening efforts to beat the epidemic. So far, 1,552 people in Liberia, Sierra Leone, Guinea and Nigeria have died. Announcing a WHO action plan to deal with the outbreak, Bruce Aylward said “the actual number of cases may be 2-4 fold higher than that currently reported” in some areas. The WHO assistant director-general said the possibility of 20,000 cases “is a scale that I think has not ever been anticipated in terms of an Ebola outbreak”. “That’s not saying we expect 20,000... but we have got to have a system in place that we can deal with robust numbers,” he added. The WHO plan calls for $489 million (£295m) to be spent over the next nine months and requires 750 international workers and 12,000 national workers across West Africa. Treatment centres in the affected West African states are already said to be operating

at full capacity. A top WHO official says flight bans will not stop the virus spreading, but are harming efforts to fight it On Thursday, Nigeria confirmed its first Ebola death outside Lagos, with an infected doctor in the oil hub of Port Harcourt dying from the disease. Operations have not yet been affected in Africa’s biggest oil producer, but a spokesman for Shell’s Nigerian subsidiary said they were “monitoring the Ebola outbreak very closely”. Health ministers from across West Africa are meeting in Ghana at an extraordinary meeting of the Economic Community of West African States (Ecowas) to discuss how to prevent the virus from spreading further. Officials at the Ecowas session backed the WHO’s call for flight bans to be ended and called for states to reopen their borders to make it easier for health workers to access affected areas. Earlier Mr Aylward insisted bans on travel and trade would not stop the spread of Ebola, saying they were “more likely to compromise the ability to respond”. Despite rumours to the contrary, the virus is not airborne and is spread by humans coming into contact with bodily fluids, such as sweat and blood, from those infected with virus.

Turkey’s Erdogan inaugurated as president

ECEP Tayyip Erdogan has been officially sworn in as Turkish president after winning the country’s first public vote for head of state. Mr Erdogan, who served three terms as PM, has vowed to give more power to the previously ceremonial post. Critics of Mr Erdogan say the move will make him more authoritarian. Opposition MPs walked out of the ceremony. Outgoing Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu is set to be PM after being elected head of the governing AK Party. Mr Erdogan promised in his presidential oath to protect Turkey’s independence and integrity, to honour the constitution and adhere to

the principles of the founder of modern Turkey, Mustafa Kemal Ataturk. Mr Erdogan pledged to safeguard the existence and independence of the ‘great Turkish nation’ as well as the rule of law, democracy and the secular republic The new president was treated to full military honours. Opposition MPs walked out of parliament shortly before the swearing-in ceremony “In my capacity as president of the Republic, I swear upon my honour and repute before the great Turkish nation and before history to safeguard the existence and independence of the state,” Mr Erdogan said at the brief ceremony in parliament.

•Trade unionists opposed to the government marched towards the Congress building :Yesterday

PHOTO:AP

Argentina strike causes disruption in Buenos Aires

ECTIONS of Argentina’s General Confederation of Labour (CGT) have gone on a 36hour strike causing disruption in the capital, Buenos Aires. The stoppage began at midday (16:00BST) on Wednesday and will run throughout Thursday. Rail and air traffic as well as the country’s ports, restaurants and bars are expected to be affected. The strikers want higher salaries and tax cuts to counteract the rising cost of living and high inflation. The trade union movement in Argentina is divided into those who back the government of President Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner and those who think it is not doing enough

to help workers. Police tried to contain protesters who had blocked roads in Buenos Aires More unions are expected to join the strike on Thursday. This latest stoppage has been called by Hugo Moyano and Luis Barrionuevo, who belong to the more radical wing of the CGT. It is the second nationwide strike they have organised in the past five months. A number of smaller unions said they would join the action on Thursday. The government has criticised the protest, saying it is “political in nature”.

“There are trade unionists who are in opposition [to the government], and that’s fine, but they should respect the citizens and leave their protest for 2015" when presidential elections will be held, Cabinet Chief Jorge Capitanich said. Mr Capitanich said road blocks that protesters had erected on Wednesday were a “totalitarian” measure and urged them to allow Argentines to go about their daily lives without disruption. Mr Moyano said the strike had broad backing as “there’s a great desire to take part and show the government that people are fed

up, tired and seeking answers to these demands that haven’t been met”. The industrial action comes amid increasing economic problems for Argentina’s government. Unemployment rose to 7.5% in the second quarter as consumer spending and industrial output both fell. The government has not issued any inflation figures since February, but according to Buenos Aires based research firm Elypsis, consumer prices rose by 38% from August 2013 to August 2014. Growth is expected to be hampered further by the fact that Argentina is in a technical default after a New York court blocked its interest payment to bondholders last month.

MH370: Indian Ocean search for missing plane refined

USTRALIA says the search for the missing Malaysia Airlines flight MH370 will focus on the southern part of the search area in the Indian Ocean. Officials said further refinement of satellite data found the plane may have turned south earlier than thought. The announcement came as Australia and Malaysia signed an agreement on the search’s next phase, which will see the two countries sharing costs. The Beijing-bound plane disappeared on 8 March with

239 people onboard. Based on analysis of satellite data, it is believed to have ended its journey in seas far west of the Australian city of Perth. Investigators do not know what happened to the flight and finding its “black box” flight recorders is seen as key to understanding the factors behind its disappearance. Australia, which is responsible for search and rescue operations, has been looking for the plane in an area about 1,800km off its west coast. The latest detail on the plane’s possible flight path

came from an analysis of a failed attempted satellite phone call from Malaysia Airlines to the plane, said Australia’s Deputy Prime Minister Warren Truss. “The search area remains the same, but some of the information that we now have suggests to us that areas a little further to the south... are of particular interest and priority,” he told reporters in Canberra. A Dutch contractor, Fugro Survey, will kick off the next phase in the search in September. Three vessels towing underwater vehicles

will scan for the plane. The search will focus on an area of about 60,000 sq km and is estimated to cost about A$52m (£29m, $49m). Malaysia’s Transport Minister Liow Tiong Lai signed the memorandum of understanding with Mr Truss. The two were also briefed on search efforts, together with China’s Transport ViceMinister He Jianzhong. Most of the passengers onboard the flight were Chinese. The ministers issued a statement saying they “remain cautiously optimistic” that the plane will be found.

THE NATION FRIDAY, AUGUST 29, 2014

EXPRESSO Questions America must answer

FOREIGN NEWS

Sharif named as murder suspect

OLICE in Pakistan have named Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif as a suspect in a murder case, officials say. He is among 21 possible defendants suspected of the killing of 14 demonstrators near Lahore in June. Opposition cleric Tahir ulQadri has demanded that Mr Sharif face murder charges and a terrorism probe. However the BBC’s M Ilyas Khan in Islamabad says it is not automatic that Mr

Sharif will be arrested and appear in court. Our correspondent says this is only a preliminary investigation following the filing of a complaint to police. Officers will need to find incriminating evidence before pursuing the case any further, he says. They are reported to have filed a first information report (FIR) - the preliminary stage of a possible criminal case - against Mr Sharif and 20 other people as possible

defendants in the killing of the demonstrators. Tahir ul-Qadri, one of two opposition figures currently leading a sit-in against Mr Sharif, had demanded that murder charges be brought in the case. Addressing his supporters, Mr Qadri rejected the FIR because he said it did not include terrorism clauses. Supporters of the prime minister say that the campaign to unseat him has run out of steam.

•Continued from back page

•Sharif

South Sudan crisis: Rebels reject deal

OUTH Sudan rebels have denied that they were party to a deal to form a power-sharing government within 45 days to end the conflict. The rebels’ negotiator said they only signed the document that set out how a ceasefire should be implemented at the ceremony in Ethiopia on Monday. Taban Deng Gai accused the regional mediators of favouring the government side in the political settlement. Thousands have died and nearly two million fled their homes in the crisis. The fighting was triggered in December when two

factions of the ruling party fell out. What started as a political dispute between President Salva Kiir and his former deputy Riek Machar has escalated into ethnic violence. Regional mediators presented several documents for the rivals to sign at a ceremony in Ethiopia’s capital, Addis Ababa, where peace talks have been going on for months. But the rebel side, which is loyal to Mr Machar, says it is unhappy that the deal brokered by regional body Igad allows President Kiir to continue in power throughout the proposed two-and-a-halfyear transitional period.

UN peacekeepers held in Golan Heights ORTY-three UN peacekeepers are being held by an “armed group” in the Syrian Golan Heights, a UN spokesperson says. The UN Disengagement Observer Force (Undof) personnel were detained near Quneitra, during fighting between Syrian rebels and government forces. Another 81 peacekeepers are being restricted to their positions in the vicinity of al-Ruwayhina and Burayqa. It comes a day after rebels took control of a crossing into the Israeli-occupied Golan after a long battle. Activists said the rebels included members of the al-Nusra Front, al-Qaeda’s affiliate in Syria.

Despite global concerns over the hunting of animals considered to be endangered species, as well as the environment impact, the bush meat trade in West Africa has continued for decades. In Nigeria, population increase and economic survival has made it more lucrative. Today, many, especially those in the rural areas, see the bush meat trade as a viable means of livelihood. Nigeria’s forest is, however, blessed with giant grasscutters. Despite the fact that they are carted away by hunters and traders from the rural areas to towns and cities, year-in yearout, for consumption without replenishment. With the upbeat of Ebola scare and food crisis, rearing grasscutter will be one appropriate strategy to increase protein intake and the earning capacity of Nigerians especially women, youth, unemployed and retirees. It will also reduce pressure on the animal in the wild, thus controlling environmental degradation and conserve biodiversity. The economic potential of grasscutter meat is higher within the region and has an extensive market due to its high demand. However, it is this high demand for grasscutter’s meat that currently poses the greatest threat to its very genetic survival. The populations of wild grasscutters in Africa countries are declining due to over-hunting and destruction of their habitat. In order to ensure their sustainable existence and use, their farming at this juncture is therefore most opportune, given the fact that domesticated grasscutters are now consumers delight. Bush meat-the meat of wild animals hunted in the forest or bush-is the favourite delicacy of many Nigerians; or used to be as the advent of the Ebola Virus Disease has forced most of the adherents of bush meat to abandon it and turn to domesticated grasscutters. The development has also dealt a heavy blow on the bush meat industry butfavoursgrasscutterfarming industry. During the last few months, interest in grasscutter farming has escalated. This may be due to the outbreak of Ebola (EVD) as people now prefer home grown grasscutters than those killed by hunters from the bush. Although, grasscutter

•Pitt and Jolie

PHOTO:AFP

Pitt, Jolie announce wedding

RAD Pitt and Angelina Jolie are now married, according to a spokesman for the Hollywood couple. Pitt, 50, and Jolie, 39, tied the knot in France on Saturday, ending years of speculation over when and where they would finally walk down the aisle. The actors were wed in a small chapel in Chateau Miraval in a private, nondenominational, civil ceremony attended by family and friends. The couple’s children took part in the wedding, the Associated Press reports. Jolie walked along the aisle with her eldest sons Maddox and Pax, 13 and 10 respectively, while her daughters Zahara, nine, and Vivienne, six, threw petals. Eight-year-old Shiloh and six-year-old Knox served as ring bearers, according to the couple’s spokesman. The couple obtained a marriage licence beforehand from a California judge who travelled to France to conduct the ceremony. Chateau Miraval in Correns, a village in the southern French region of Var, has been their second home since 2008.

is not among the bushmeat mentioned that carry Ebola (EVD). The World Health Organisation had said ‘’the virus is transmitted to people from wild fruit bats, gorillas, monkeys and chimpanzes and spreads in human population through human-to-human transmission.” At Jovana Farms we are encouraging people to start smallscale farming because it has enormous capacity to touch lives. Although, large scale farming has its own advantage, but it’s capital intensive and the risk aversion nature of our people have made it difficult for many entrepreneurs to go into it and so, the price of food has remained high in Nigeria. Currently, demand for domesticated bush-meat (grasscutter) is growing higher than those killed by hunters from the forest. This development may not be unconnected with the recent outbreak of Ebola virus disease in some West African countries. According to World Health Organisation, Ebola virus disease is spread by Chimpanzes, gorillas, monkeys and fruit bats. Fruit bats are considered to be the natural host of Ebola virus, not all animals. Today, we have developed a delivery system that brought the grasscutters to the doorstep of our clients. If you solve a problem, people will pay you for it. This valued-added service sky-rocketed the reputation of JOVANA FARMS as the grasscutter company of choice in Nigeria. To raise grasscutter, one requires at least N60,000. These include the cost of the 5-grasscutters and their cage. Feeding them is affordable; they are no longer bushmeat but domesticated bush-meat. They are no longer ‘’grass-cutters but grass-eaters’’. The farmer is now the grasscutter because he goes into the bush to cut the grass for the animal that’s now the grass-eaters in the house. To succeed in animal farming, new farmers are advised to “sit at the feet” of a mentor-someone that has years of experience, has made the mistake, has learned how to succeed and is willing to pass that knowledge down. Attend Jovana Farms nationwide seminars nearest to you and know more opportunities in grasscutter farming.

Visit us at www.jovanafarm.com, E-mail:jovanafarms@gmail.com or Call: 080 33262 808, for more details. Choose also the nearest venue from the advert box in this page.

Why, America has remained mute even as BH rampaged, seized a swathe of the land and hoisted its flag. Nobody remembers the captured Chibok girls anymore as these ‘boys’ threaten to encircle the entire northeast of Nigeria. More questions: how come the Nigeria military seem to suffer a decreasing stock of arms and ammunition while the BH is growing into a deadly land army? When did the BH acquire such massive fighting hardware like APCs and launchers with which they ‘capture’ Gwoza? Can APCs plod the small area of Gwoza without the all-seeing Americans tracking it? How come America could launch guided, long-range, precision drone attacks into Iraq, Syria and Afghanistan to repel terrorists yet they ‘watch’ BH run riot over Nigeria? And we must ask the Americans the source of this fresh supply of bulky war machines to the BH? What is their make and country of origin? Who is financing these fresh supplies and through what route are they ferried to the land-locked enclave of the BH? To think that this area, being overrun in this manner, is under Nigeria military’s emergency. We know that America has a quasi-military base just across the border in Niger Republic. What about the U.S.-Africa Command from where we were told men were to be drafted to Sambisa? Is there no longer a U.S. naval presence in our territorial waters thereabouts Sao Tome and Principe? Yet we have experienced the worst kinds of piracy and crude oil theft in the Niger Delta in the last few years. Why have the Fulani cattle-rearers suddenly become a vicious Fulani ground army slaughtering in hundreds daily? Who is arming them? What really is going on? America owes Nigerians a world of explanation that must be put out quickly and in very clear terms. Why is nobody bothered by the refugee crisis and human misery around the northeast of Nigeria? A paradise of wimps: Yes this may sound wimpy; it may also appear as if anarchy is already loosed upon the land but the way our military has been tumbling and high-tailing in the battlefield recently is quite scary. And if there were indeed hidden hands and external forces massed against this bumbling giant, now is the time to ask hard questions. LAST MUG: Oil sector as albatross Analysts have recently divined that Nigeria’s oil sector has been the cog in the wheel of the economy in the last eight quarters. Well as if we needed any divination. But if you sought any economic wizard to reveal to you that our oil and gas sector has been the unyielding laggard in our economic matrix, here is their verdict in the June 2014 Economic Report: that the oil sector share of the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), contracted by an average of 0.8 per cent. This is in contrast to telecommunications, building and construction, hotels and restaurant, solid minerals and real estate sectors which achieved double digit growth in the third quarter of 2013. Now who is listening?

THE NATION FRIDAY AUGUST 29, 2014

THE NATION FRIDAY, AUGUST 29, 2014

SPORT EXTRA CONTRACT TALKS:

Keshi asked for N6m, not N15m, says minister SPORTS minister Tammy Danagogo has said that Chief Coach of the Super Eagles, Stephen Keshi, who is negotiating a new contract with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) requested for a monthly salary of N6 million and not the N15 million he was reported to have demanded for. The minister also disclosed that Keshi was so patriotic to Nigeria that he even dropped the idea of an increment in his monthly wages to help his country prosecute the two African Nations Cup qualifiers holding next month. He however blamed the NFF crisis for the delay in sealing the coach’s contract. “The NFF has been negotiating with Stephen Keshi but apparently because of the situation on ground the negotiation has not been very successful,” Danagogo said. “If you look at it his contract, it expired about when we exited the 2014 World Cup in Brazil. Apparently the NFF as at then was not very eager to re-negotiate with him. So, we (National Sports Commission) were trying to see whether the NFF would negotiate with him. They were on that when a few things started coming up. Then Maigari left, Maigari was suspended and Mike Umeh came in. Umeh then commenced negotiation with him (Keshi) but negotiation was stalled because they couldn’t agree on the remuneration. “We again told Umeh to allow Maigari to come in to finish his tenure and do a peaceful election. From that Maigari came back and they too said that that amount of money they won’t be able to

•NSC to pay coach for Eagles’ AFCON qualifiers if… agree with it. “Then I looked at it that we have a match on the 6th of September (2014), why do we unduly delay the contract? So I called Keshi personally to know what the issues were. He told me what they have offered him and what he has asked to be paid. “I asked him if he is desirous to do the job. He said he is desirous and I told him I would undertake to see that when the dust is settled on NFF issues we would get him and the NFF to sit down and sign the contract. I then asked him to come and do the work and if need be the ministry can pay him. I told him if the NFF cannot pay him the NSC can pay for things to be done.” “He then told me that for the love of his country he would

•Danagogo

•Keshi

‘Moses can deliver goods for Stoke’

TOKE CITY assistant manager Mark Bowen has suggested that Victor Moses has finally been given the platform to display his best form after moving to

•Moses

From Segun Ogunjimi, Abuja come and start and when the NFF is settled they can agree. What they have offered and what Keshi is demanding is not even more than a million naira difference. It is just for the NFF to be settled and then Keshi’s contract will be signed. The issue of what to pay Keshi is no longer a challenge. “Even with what I have discussed with him now he can even waive that. So, it is now left for the two sides to sit down, sign the contract and also agree on other issues in the contract. The issues to be resolved are assistant coaches, and so on. These are the details that need to be sorted out,” Danagogo explained.

the club on loan from Chelsea. The Nigerian winger played a starring role as the Potters beat Portsmouth 3-0 in the Capital One Cup on Wednesday night and Bowen believes that being a regular at the Britannia Stadium is certain to help him improve after being used sparingly by Brendan Rodgers during a similar spell with Liverpool last season. “At the moment he is 99 per cent Premier League match fit and he tired a little bit in the second half and we brought him off to protect him,” the Welshman is quoted as saying by Sky Sports News. “With all due respect to Portsmouth, he is used to playing against top-class defenders and causing them problems so it was maybe a tad easier for him tonight, but he showed what he has got and always had - and he just needs that platform. “It is no good for a player of his ability to just have cameo performances, and hopefully we can give him the platform to do that this year.” Moses is set to keep his place in the side for Saturday’s trip to the Etihad Stadium to face Manchester City.

NFF: no suspension of Premier League Matches HE Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has urged all stakeholders to discountenance a statement from the League Management Company (LMC) that matches of the Nigeria Premier League are being suspended. “It has come to our notice that the League Management Company has been issuing notices to clubs in the Premier League that matches are being suspended from this weekend. “This is totally untrue. If the LMC received a notice from the Nigeria Referees’ Association about purported withdrawal of referees, the LMC should have brought this to the notice of the NFF and not to take a decision to suspend the League on its own,” NFF President, Ambassador Chris Giwa, said in Abuja on Thursday. Giwa expressed his unhappiness with the Nigeria Referees Association for the threat to withdraw referees from the Premier League, and said the NFF would not take the matter lightly. “As the owners of the League, the Nigeria Football Federation is hereby making it clear that Premier League matches are not being suspended. Matches scheduled for this weekend will definitely take place,” Giwa affirmed. The NFF has therefore called on all referees appointed for this weekend’s matches to go for their matches.

THE NATION FRIDAY AUGUST 29, 2014

THE NATION FRIDAY, AUGUST 29, 2014

NEWS FUNERAL FOR PROF. DORA AKUNYILI IN ANAMBRA

•From right: Former Vice President Alex Ekwueme; wife of former Head of State Gen. Yakubu Gowon, Victoria; her husband; Anambra State Governor Willie Obiano, his wife Ebele and All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) National Chairman Chief Victor Umeh at the funeral mass for former Minister of Information Prof. Dora Akunyili at Madonna Catholic Church, Agulu, Anambra State...yesterday

•Minister of Health Dr. Onyebuchi Chukwu (left) and Information Minister Labaran Maku

•From right: Former Minister of Information John Nwodo; former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi and his wife, Margaret

•Imo State Governor Rochas Okorocha (left); Enugu State Attorney General, who represented the state government, Anthony Ani and wife Ebele

•The widower, Dr. Chike Akunyili and family

•Bauchi State Governor Isah Yuguda (left); Mrs. Bola Obasanjo (middle) and wife of Governor Martin Elechi of Ebonyi State...yesterday

•From left: Chairman, Senate Committee on Works Ayogu Eze; Prince Arthur Eze and Sen. Andy Uba ...yesterday

•Catholic Archbishop of Abuja Cardinal John Onaiyekan (left); Cardinal Arinze and other clergy men

•From left: Former Ebonyi State Governor Dr. Sam Egwu and former Governor of Central Bank Prof. Charles Chukwuma Soludo. PHOTOS: OBI CLETUS

•Former Anambra State Governor Dr. Chukwuemeka Ezeife (left); wife of former Vice President Mrs. Beatrice Ekwueme and Minister of Power Prof. Chinedu Nebo

FRIDAY, AUGUST 29, 2014

TRUTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM

N the name of politics, people act in ways that raise the question “what principles motivate their actions?’ Then, of course, there is a not-too-strange-for-ourclime reaction: “in politics who needs principles?” For which a reasonable response is available: human beings do; otherwise we are no different than brutes. What is depressing is that the majority refuses to ask questions and we are all still prisoners of primordial attachments and sectarian affiliations. Break loose and secure a semblance of the freedom of the mind, which in the end is the most prized object of our humanity, and you become a suspect subject to mental evaluation. Political correctness runs amok and the irrational loyalty of tribal jingoists and religious bigots are ever present distractions of readers’ comments on many topical stories on the websites of our media outlets. A case in point: Question the propriety of invading states with the intimidating force of the military and the aggravating scenario of having them masked and you are immediately underwhelmed with a variety of responses, not a few justifying the practice on nothing but an unsound recourse to “my side is always right and the other side is never right.” And when the Chairman of INEC himself came up against the practice, was there a rethink on the part of those folks who saw nothing wrong with the practice? No. It makes the stomach turn. The need for principles in our politics cannot be overstated because just like vision, without principles, the people and the nation perish. And there is a difference between principled approach to politics and its tactical counterpart, though it is easy to confuse them. Almost all voluntary actions are aimed at achieving one goal or another and tactic is the chosen path or method of getting there. Needless to say, if the goal is devilish, nothing can make the tactic or method angelic. Just as a good end does not justify an evil means so a good means does not justify an evil end. And much of what we have in our politics is the combination of evil means and evil ends. We need a constant reminder that the ultimate end, the fundamental assumption, the principle of politics, especially democratic politics, is the good of the people. When monarchs fight over territories, they play politics, but not necessarily for the good of the people. Our advancement from monarchical rule in favor of the republican ideal is an indication of our belief that the people’s interests are the sole justification of whatever we do and their voices are pivotal to the recognition

POCALYPSE 2015: Is there any chance whatsoever that the United States of America might want Nigeria damaged or dismembered? What would be the motive? What would it profit the U.S. to have one more humanitarian debacle, another blood festival in another corner of the world? The war theatres of Syria, Ukraine, Sudan, Iraq and Central African Republic must be enough to sate the thirst of even the worst vampires. Bringing this lumbering giant, Nigeria, to ruins in a fratricidal religious war will do the world no good, not the least America. So why does everything seem to point to the fact that by omission or commission, America seems to crave the demise of Nigeria as currently configured? Let us state upfront that it is naïve, if not cowardly, to admit and surrender to the notion that the destiny of one nation could rest solely under the authority of another. But history is replete with cases and Ukraine is current history. It is also a shame, a surrender of sovereignty and an admission of failure to accept and capitulate to the authority of another sovereign entity but that is Nigeria’s current reality. Is the U.S. taking advantage of Nigeria’s structural, institutional and leadership ferment? There are numerous questions craving answers. And the first is: a U.S. agency had suggested nearly a decade ago that this entity known as Nigeria may fail by 2015. Knowing that the U.S. and most other developed countries don’t live by the moment, we

VOL.9 NO.2,953

TODAY IN THE NATION ‘We essentially epitomize a style of living which cultivates sincerity and is at the same time a fraud. We arrogate to ourselves rights to nobility and free speech by twisting truth into relative truths and true lies in an existence we have learnt to rationalize as gracious and irrevocably necessary. ‘

COMMENT & DEB ATE EBA

SEGUN GBADEGESIN gbadegesin@thenationonlineng.net

Politics, peoples and principles

•Jonathan

and promotion of their interests. We err irredeemably if we act as if we know more than the people what those interests are and how they ought to be promoted. Elections are the means or method by which the people not only register their interests but also choose how they will have them promoted and through whose instrumentality they will have them satisfied. Let us concede that even in matters so fundamental and so intimately connected to the people, they can be mistaken in their judgment about how or by whom. But that is their prerogative: to be mistaken. We cannot therefore justify the imposition of our will on them by appeal to the possibility, even probability, of mistakes on their part. By and large, elections are the means by which the will of the people is frustrated, violated and undermined. And much as it may have been cast in that light, this is not just an inter-party issue, it is also an intra-party phenomenon. Witness the demand for internal democracy within political parties. With elections, tactics trump principles for a good number of our political players, and because it has happened very often, even otherwise decent and morally conscious

people take it as the norm. Coming in a variety of forms and shapes, it is anything but normal. With the fierceness of our electoral competitions, where the stakes are high, political tactics come into their full focus. While principles underpinning elections are about fundamental ideals of government by consent of the governed, tactics are the means of brightening the electoral chances of particular candidates. These may include such mundane ones like securing the support of political heavyweights or, in the case of a party, fielding popular candidates. These appear innocuous though the devil is in the detail. There are far more insidious tactics, including the use of de facto political power to intimidate opponents (with troops and police), the use of state funds to buy voters and starve opponents of access to funds, and most objectionably, the politicisation of ethnic and religious sentiments to divide the people with the sole objective of manipulating the electorate and having an edge. This has gone on for far too long with impunity. Many would maintain that the political parties are equal opportunity offenders, but the most daring culprit has always been a party that controls the centre. We don’t have to quibble over this because the evidence is copious from the beginning of the republic. Unfortunately it is getting worse and it is time that reasonable stakeholders, people of goodwill, think seriously about the harm it does to the psyche of the electorate and our long term interest in the deepening of democracy. The effectiveness of such odious tactics has always been an issue but it depends on the integrity of citizens and how much they understand the evil that the actions of the politicians do to the system. If they have a good understanding, it also depends further on how much they personalise the actions as an insult to their dignity, itself a factor of

STEVE OSUJI

EXPRESSO

steve.osuji@yahoo.com

Boko Haram: Questions America must answer must ask now whether there wasn’t much more to that dire prognosis than the rest of the world knew.

Sambisa forest: hashtagbringouttheamericans: Now, it must be that the

American experts who recently came to help us either got lost in the Sambisa forest or they were on a different covert mission of their own. Which provokes the suspicion that the Boko Haram insurgency in the northeast of Nigeria seems to have gained more ground, garnered momentum and become more audacious after the Americans practically forced their way to the forest last June? Remember the unprecedented global orchestration of the kidnapped Chibok school girls’ affair; remember how the American political elite had

found a common ground over Chibok and how eminent leaders like John Mccain and Hilary Clinton had railed against Nigeria’s leadership suggesting there is a vacuum? Recall that Nigerians, including President Goodluck Jonathan, were relieved when the Americans practically forced their way into the Sambisa fray? We still remember that they promised to send intelligence personnel and sophisticated surveillance equipment and planes to help pick out the rascals from that ‘small’ forest area and rescue the girls? Where on earth are the Americans and all the ‘allied’ nations that rushed purportedly to help Nigeria rescue the Chibok girls and stem the insurgency? All we heard was that the Americans and the Brits were here to of-

OLA TUNJI OL OLADE OLATUNJI OLOLADE

education and wellbeing. In 2011, candidate Jonathan rode high on the goodwill of the electorate who saw in him a fresh start with a transformation agenda. They also saw him as a victim of a gang-up by a section of the political class. But the honeymoon didn’t last before the realities of federal ineptitude stared citizens in the face. Increased insecurity, increased mass poverty, increased corruption and the regionalisation and spiritualisation of disenchantment have marred the transformation agenda of the president. In the face of these developments, the ruling party has effectively severed the relationship between politics and principles in favour of crude political tactics. Included here are such tactics as the recourse to the politicisation of religion, the manipulation of ethnic sentiments and the deployment of security agents for partisan advantage. So much for transformation! The few examples I cited are not unknown to readers. But someone would object that having observed that all political parties are implicated, I chose to scapegoat the ruling party. It is no scapegoating and there is a good reason for taking my samples from the practice of the ruling party. The PDP has ruled the country since the return of civil rule. Since 1999, states and governors have been at the mercy of the centre. The various agencies of government, including the EFCC, Police, Military, etc, have acted under the direction of the President, the leader of the ruling party, or his designee. A truly transformational agenda would have nipped the repulsive practices in the bud. Instead, the proverbial witch has only continued to breed more offspring. I have alluded to the common belief that the parties aren’t different and there may be some truth to it. But at the inception of the political parties in 1998, what was true and still is to some extent was that PDP was the party of the military, peopled by characters with no moral scruple about politics and people. They didn’t care about the evil that was visited on the nation post-June 12, 1993; they were into militarised politics and they had a shareholder mentality about politics, including a cut-throat competition for power for material benefits, with no enduring agenda for the common people. Fifteen years later, this leopard has not changed its skin a bit. I grieve internally for some of the genuinely decent and humane persons now taking a decision of a lifetime to associate with this group of devourers. •For comments, send SMS to 08111813080 fer superior intelligence and spy wares. Not another word after that except the rumour mill which buzzed that the Americans had to leave in frustration as they could not live with the numbing corruption in our system. Really? That does sound mighty fishy doesn’t it?

As Boko Haram rolls out the tanks of warfare: Is it possible that our friends

merely sought opportunity for reconnoiter and to plant coordinate surveillance devices for future strategic uses? Is it not worrisome that the so-called Boko Haram has suddenly transformed from daggers, rifles and IEDs to rocket propelled grenades (RPGs), rocket launchers and armored personnel carriers (APCs)? It will not be a terrifically smart deduction that BH will introduce stealth jetfighters and bombers to the war next. Is it not strange that since the Americans ‘joined’ this ‘war’, the BH ‘army’ has grown from under-cover attacks of boys’ schools and herding away of young girls at night to overrunning a crack mobile police academy, chasing a battalion of Nigerian soldiers across the border, 80 kilometres into the Cameroons and declaring a Caliphate Republic of Gwoza within the enclave of Nigeria. Is it by coincidence that since the Americans ‘joined’ this ‘war’ in June, this rag-tag BH army now seems to be imbued with better intelligence, to be better organised and have persistently outgunned Nigerian soldiers?

•Continued on page 59 •For comments, send SMS to 08111526725

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