The Nation December 08, 2011

Nigeria’s widest circulating newspaper

BOKO HARAM:

How Task Force arrested slain leader Yusuf Why Konduga will spend term in SSS custody PAGE 4 Senator begins battle for bail Sultan, Oritsejafor seek murder trial for suspects

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VOL. 7, NO. 1968 THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2011

TR UTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM TRUTH

•The scene of the explosion ... yesterday

N150.00

PHOTO: TONY AKOWE

Horror in Kaduna 12 die in explosion hours after peace talks

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One of the two people on the motorcycle died immediately, but the other person lost an arm and also sustained serious burns. He started running down the street, crying for help ... Four generators in front of the shop also created some sparks, killing three people ... Festus Ugu lost three of his boys.

SEE PAGES 2,3&4

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•SHELL, ENI BUY $1B OIL BLOCK P11 •ACCESS BANK TO RAISE N13B P11

THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2011

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NEWS KADUNA EXPLOSION

Residents relive mysterious explosion H

YCENT Nwafor sells vehicle spare parts in one of the shops in Oriakpata in the heart of Kaduna, which was devastated by a mysterious explosion yesterday. Nwafor recalled how the explosion occurred.

He said:”My shop is adjacent the place that the explosion took place, I sell spare parts. We just heard a loud noise and all of a sudden, we started seeing fire and smoke everywhere. I know that so many people died. Some of the victims have been evacuated to the hospital.”

Sunday Okafor, a spare parts seller, said he was with four other colleagues when the incident occurred, but he was the only one who came out alive.

Okafor said: “We were standing this morning discussing, until we heard a sound, I had to crawl for escape just to discover that they four other people died instantly.

There are still some people trapped inside. Some people came on a motorcycle and started asking questions, they were holding something and all of a sudden what they were holding exploded with their machine, the two of them scattered immediately.”

Another eyewitness, Abdulwaheed Oyewumi, who works as a mechanic in the area, said he became aware of the explosion when he saw somebody burning and running.

“From my shop, I saw somebody running and burning and people started pouring water on the man, so, we ran to discover that some shops were in flames and shortly after, we heard a sound of explosion,” Oyewunmi recalled.

It was a loud sound that made Emeka Udoji, an auto parts seller, realised he was not going to be able to carry on with the business of the day.

Udoji debunked claims that the explosion was, perhaps, caused by a gas cylinder. He said: “The blast occurred at the back of my shop.

There are people living at the back of my shop; no one sells batteries or gas cylinder around here. From my experience and what I saw, there is nothing like explosion of gas or battery. This is bomb explosion.”

For Sunday Anyigbobu, he was discussing the death of veteran actor Sam Loco when he realised the area was on siege. He kept his hands on his head and the ceiling of his shop caved in on him.

Anyigbobu said: “I entered the shop and the guy gave me N1,000 and we were discussing Sam Loco’s death, and I went outside and before I knew what was happening a just heard a sound, and I kept my hands on my head and the whole ceiling fell on me and I managed to escape but the guy I was talking to before I was going out, I am not sure he is alive because he was still inside as I was making my way outside. He is my brother who I went to give change. The explosion was outside the shop. I did not see

From Tony Akowe, Kaduna

anybody apart from the small boys that I saw burnt. I have been calling the guy’s number but his number is not going. I can confirm the death of three people, one Igbo and two Hausa people living inside the compound. The Igbo’s name is Ebuka.

Inside the shop there is no battery, I sell Peugeot parts and he sells truck parts. There is nothing explosive in the shops. This occurred in front of my shop though I cannot say precisely the exact time but it was in the morning. About three people died.”

But Police Commissioner Ballah Nasarawa believes there is no need to suspect any foul play. He said the incident occurred in a shop where they sell batteries and gas.

Nasarawa said: “It is a sad incident.

As at now, we are not suspecting any foul play, you can see that the fire is still burning, but if you observe, it is from where they sell batteries and gas; so, we are suspecting that it is an explosion from within not sabotage from outside.

As at now, there are casualties but I cannot give you certain numbers until after investigations.”

Special Adviser to the Governor on Security and Coordinator, Operation Yaki Col. Dangana Mamman, stressed there is need for proper investigation before jumping into conclusion.

Mamman said: “We need to be very careful ourselves; we must make sure that we comb our environment personally. Like what has happened now, it is from somebody’s shop. He came in the morning, opened his shop and this thing happened; I cannot imagine that somebody threw something. The allegation that people came on a bike is still an allegation yet to be confirmed. This thing was inside the shop, the explosion came from the shop. It is an explosion I can confirm.”

But two eyewitnesses insisted it was a hand grenade that was thrown. Oke Oke and Fabian Ozochukwu told The Nation they saw the boys who perpetrated the act.

Oke said: “The boys came on a motor cycle with something; it was burning and they threw the substance away. They both scattered immediately and their machine got burnt. I don’t know how many people are dead now. I can’t remember any name now. I sell motor spare parts.”

Ozochukwu said: “One of the boys on the bike had his body burnt and ran down there. I don’t know whether he died or not. I can’t tell.

There are two people on top of a bike. I was outside chatting and they were carrying something and that something they were carrying exploded more than five times. There were about four or five generators around there; so, immediately the thing exploded, the generators exploded also. They were passing and the thing exploded on the bike.”

TIMELINE OF 2011 EXPLOSIONS Three people are killed and 21 injured by an explosive device thrown from a car at an election rally near Nigeria’s capital, Abuja.

April 7: An explosion hits a polling booth at Unguwar Doki, Maiduguri, Borno State injuring more than 10 people.

April 8: Bomb explosion at the Independent Electoral Commission office in Suleja, kills 11.

April 9: An explosion hits a polling booth in a neighbourhood of the northeast Nigerian city of Maiduguri during a parliamentary election.

April 15: Youths riding on a motorcycle, throw a locally made bomb into the premises of the Maiduguri council office of the INEC. April 16: A police station in the Lami Sula district of Maiduguri, which lies in the remote state of Borno near Nigeria’s borders with Chad, Cameroun and Niger Republic, is bombed.

April 16: Bomb explosion occurs in two separate areas of Kaduna metropolis on the night of the presidential election in the state.

April 21: Two suspected bomb-makers die in a blast in Kaduna.

April 25: Three bomb blasts rip through a hotel and a motor park in Maiduguri killing at least two persons.

May 29: 13 people are confirmed dead and 40 injured in a night blast at mammy market located in Shandawanka Barracks, Bauchi, the Bauchi State capital.

May 29: Eight victims lose their legs after an explosion occurred at Zuba, a suburb of Kubwa in Abuja.

May 31: Bomb explosion near bank on Baga Road in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital.

June 16: Boko Haram carries out massive bomb attack on Force Headquarters (also known as Louis Edet House), Abuja, targeted at the Inspector-General of Police. Officials believe it is the first suicide bombing in Nigeria’s history.

August 26: Boko Haram bombed the UN House, Abuja killing over 20 people.

November 11: Explosion in Bauchi left five people injured March 3:

THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2011

3

NEWS KADUNA EXPLOSION

Saraki condemns terrorist attacks

S

ENATOR Bukola Saraki yesterday condemned the terrorist attacks in the North. He said the bombing was an assault against all Nigerians and should not be tolerated.

The senator, who chairs Senate committee on Environment and Ecology, said the explosion in Kaduna is not acceptable and not in the best interest of peaceful coexistence of Nigeria.

The senator extends his condolences to the families of those who died in the explosion and prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured.

He reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to combat terrorism.

He said the leadership of the National Assembly would support efforts to combat terrorism.

A statement by his Media Assistant, Akintoba Fatigun, said: “The distinguished senator also wishes to reassure both the national and the global community that Nigeria is committed to fighting the incur-

•Dr. Saraki

sion of terrorism into the country and commitment to ensuring a safe, peaceful and secure environment in Nigeria.”

He urged the law enforcement agents to punish the perpetrator of the crime. He called on anyone with information on the criminal act to inform the security agencies.

‘Providing relief is our concern’

T

HE Executive Secretary of the State Emergency Management Authority (SEMA), Isiaka Makama, and the Acting Zonal Coordinator NEMA Northwest zone, Musa Lailah, said their immediate concern is to provide succour to the victims.

Makama said: “We heard that there was fire and we ran here to provide needed rescue. We are not sure of the number of casualties yet. When we get back to the office, we will see the extent of damage and ways of giving assistance. We are doing our best to put off the fire in the first instance.”

Lailah said: “Reports reached us that there was a bomb explosion and I contacted all the stakeholders, the Red Cross, civil defence, FRSC, and we ran here to provide the needed assistance and see what prompted the incident. As at now we don’t know the number of casualties but I can assure you that there are some deaths recorded. But before the end of the day, we can ascertain the number of the injured and deaths. We will take an assessment of what damage has been done and the causes and inform the appropriate authorities over the incident.”

•CLOCKWISE from top: A crowd, which gathered at the scene of the explosion; the motorcycle allegedly used by the bearers of the explosive device; a female victim of the explosion; and a male victim on the hopsital bed PHOTOS: TONY AKOWE

The day after Arewa Peace and Unity conference ANALYSIS By Olukorede Yishau

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OR two days, prominent northerners, including Vice-President Namadi Sambo and Senate President David Mark, were in Kaduna for a conference on Peace and Unity. It was organised by the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), an organisation regarded as the voice of the North. The major concern of all who spoke at the summit was the worsening security in the region, where armed factions loosely grouped under the Boko Haram has for sometime been waging insurgency against the government.

Except Mark, almost every other leader who spoke at the conference, shied away from mentioning Boko Haram (Western education is forbidden). Mark, obviously puzzled by the conspiracy of silence, wondered if the development was out of fear of being attacked by members of the group, whose members are known to disown whoever is against them, including parents.

“Are we afraid” Mark asked, “to openly condemn Boko Haram either for political reasons or out of fear of possible attack by the sect?”

The group, which appears to be growing in sophistication and is believed to have links with al-Qaeda’s North African affiliate, has attacked churches, homes and the Police Headquarters in Abuja. It has struck Abuja twice this year.

The second time was at the United Nations Nigeria headquarters. The casualty was staggering.

There have been allegations that prominent northern politicians are its financiers. A former minister was said to have twice bailed its late leader when he was arrested by the police. A spokesman of the group jailed on Tuesday named a senator, Ali Ndume who is standing trial, and a former Borno State Governor, Ali Modu Sheriff, as its backers. Both have denied the allegation.

Governor Ibrahim Yakowa, whose state was the scene of yesterday’s blast, told the conference, that the patrons of the violence in the North must be unmasked. Though Boko Haram has not claimed responsibility for yesterday’s horror, some wonder if it is an indication that peace is a long distance away from the region. It may be too early to say. But it is an indication that it takes more than a talk shop for peace to be achieved.

T

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THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2011

NEWS

Horror in Kaduna as 12 die in explosion hours after peace talks

B

ARELY 24 hours after the conclusion of the Arewa Conference on Peace and Unity in Kaduna, an explosion yesterday rocked the city. Twelve people died, many others injured, some in critical condition.

No group had claimed responsibility for the explosion last night.

The explosion occurred around 9 a m at Oriakpata, a popular vehicle spare parts market on the Katsina/ Ogbomoso road, opposite the former Scala Cinema.

Eye witnesses told The Nation that two men on an army green Honda motorcycle threw a bag ino one of the shops on House 32, Ogbomoso Road. It immediately exploded.

One of the two riders died on the spot. The other was taken by security agents to an unknown destination. He was unconscious.

Among the 12 people believed to have died from the explosion so far are two children.

The injured were taken to hospitals where about two of them are believed to be in intensive care. One sustained first degree burns. Eleven shops were affected.

Residents of the ever-busy Katsina Road and the adjoining streets were scared.

The bodies of eight of the victims were deposited at the Barau Dikko Specialist Hospital. Six others, who were injured, are at the hospital. One was taken to the St. Gerard Catholic Hospital.

The Public Relations Officer of St. Gerard Hospital, John Ali, said the victim brought to the hospital was in critical condition and will be transferred to the Ahmadu Bello

From Tony Akowe, Kaduna

University Teaching Hospital, Shika, near Zaria.

An eye-witness, Fabian Uzorchukwu, one of the shop owners, said he was outside when the explosion occurred.

Fabian said: “I was standing outside my shop when I saw two people coming on top of a motorcycle and, suddenly, something exploded when the person at the back of the motorcycle threw the thing towards the shop. I fell down and immediately ran inside my shop but the roof of the shop fell on me. But I managed to crawl outside again.

“One of the two people on the motorcycle died immediately, but the other person lost an arm and also sustained serious burns. He started running down the street, crying for help before he was rushed to hospital.

“Four generators in front of the shop also created some sparks, killing three people working on one (Wisdom, Ebuka and one other, a 16year-old boy). We lost many people. Festus Ugu lost three of his boys.

“Property worth millions of naira were destroyed. In my shop alone, I lost goods worth N5 million. If you consider the contents of other shops, I will say apart from the people who died, we lost hundreds of millions of naira worth of property.”

Another trader, identified simply as Onyeka, is believed to have been killed by the explosion.

Another eyewitness, Abdul, told The Nation he was outside his vehicle spare parts shop when the incident occurred.

He said: “There were two

•A man being consoled at the scene of the Kaduna explosion ... yesterday

people on the motorcycle. The man riding it was heavily built and mature. He carried a younger man, carrying a carton containing the bomb.

“The bomb must have been timed because they suddenly threw it away, towards the shop after it had started sparkling. It killed the rider of the motorcycle. The passenger sustained burns and had one of his arms chopped off.

“Some of those who died could have been saved, if the rescue operation had started earlier because there was a lady, Khadijat, whose brother is getting married next week.

She was trapped in the rubble and was receiving calls for up to 20 minutes. Her body was later brought out from under the rubble.”

A victim, Sunday Anigbogu, was lucky to have escaped being killed in the

blast. He was in his shop when the explosion occurred.

Onyeka, with whom he was discussing, he said, was trapped under the rubble. He died but Anigbogu crawled out from under the ceiling, which caved in on him.

“I was speaking to Onyeka who was inside the shop when I heard the explosion. I raised up my hand, which was what saved me as the ceiling caved in on my hand and I managed to crawl outside. But Onyeka was trapped inside (and was later confirmed to have died).”

Soldiers, policemen, State Security Service (SSS), Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps and Red Cross officials were part of the rescue operation. Fire fighters from the Kaduna State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA)

Boko Haram: Why Konduga will serve term in SSS custody

T

HE fear of attack by Boko Haram members is the reason why its jailed spokesman, Ali Sanda Konduga, will serve his three-year term in the State Security Service (SSS) custody, it was learnt last night.

Prosecutor Cliff Osagie requested Chief Magistrate Oyebola Oyewunmi, who convicted Konduga, to allow him serve the jail term in the custody of the EFCC. The request was granted. This is contrary to the expectation that he would be sent to the prison.

It was gathered that Konduga is also assisting security agencies with information on the sect.

The source added: “With the sensitive information at the disposal of Konduga, he has been labelled a ‘security risk’ by Boko Haram and he cannot survive in a normal prison.

“In view of its antecedent, Boko Haram will kill Konduga wherever he is serving his prison term.

“Having cooperated so far with security agencies, it is ideal to protect him because he has more or less become an agent of the state.

From Yusuf Alli, Abuja and Adekunle Jimoh, Ilorin

“And the state cannot expose him to unnecessary risks. He is also assisting agencies with intelligence on the Boko Haram sect.”

Also, less than 48 hours after fresh charges were filed against him at the Federal High Court, Senator Ali Ndume has decided to fight back on his alleged sponsorship of the Boko Haram sect.

The embattled Senator yesterday raised a legal team to battle for his bail.

He has assembled a fiveman legal team headed by Mr Rickey Tarfa (SAN).

It was learnt that the team has been allowed access to Ndume for preliminary briefing.

A source said: “He has being in detention since November 3. The Senator has decided to fight his cause by getting a crack legal team led

by Tarfa.

“We won’t reveal other members of the team yet, to avoid being hounded by security agencies.

“So far, the four-count charge has amounted to nothing. We will secure Ndume’s bail, and Nigerians will hear

his own side of the story. He told us that he is not a terrorist. He will surely open up.”

Responding to a question, the source said: “The real battle has to do with Ndume’s bail; he needs freedom to tell his story better.

The state wants to detain him until the conclusion of his trial but he said that will jeopardise fair hearing.”

A member of the family said: “Each time we got in touch with him, he always maintained his innocence.

That is why we are ready to back him.”

The Nigeria Inter-Religious Council (NIREC) yesterday urged the federal government to charge members of the Boko Haram sect found culpable in wanton killings of people in parts of the country with murder under the criminal and penal codes.

NIREC also called for a “general review of security administration” following rising cases of violence and insecurity.

The council, co-chaired by President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Saa’d Abubakar and President of

How Boko Haram leader Yusuf was arrested, by Army chief

T

•Senator begins battle for bail •Sultan, Oritsejafor seek murder trial for suspects

•Konduga

the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor, also warned the government not to succumb to external pressures on same-sex marriage.

It commended the passage of the anti-same sex marriage bill by the Senate and urged the House of Representatives to follow suit.

President Goodluck Jonathan attended the opening ceremony of the meeting in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital, on Tuesday. In a communiqué issued at the end of its second-quarter meeting held in Ilorin, the body described the activities of Boko Haram as a menace and urged the government to address it effectively along with other security threats.

Continued on page 61

PHOTO: TONY AKOWE

battled hard to put off the fire that engulfed the scene.

Body parts littered the scene. They were picked up and packed into body bags.

At Rakiya Memorial Hospital, where two of the victims were taken, the Medical Director, Dr. Muhammad Bello, confirmed that they received injured persons, noting that the condition of one of the victims was critical.

“His tooth and jaw have been damaged and we will have to refer him to the Teaching Hospital,” Bello said.

Kaduna State Commissioner of Police Ballah Nasarawa said: “It is a sad incident. As at now, we are not suspecting any foul play.

You can see that the fire is still burning, but if you can observe, it is where they sell bat-

teries and gas cylinders. So, we are suspecting that it is an explosion from within, not sabotage from outside. As at now, there are casualties. I cannot give you certain number until after investigations.”

The co-ordinator of the state special security outfit, Operation Yaki, Col. Dangana Mamman (rtd), said: “The allegation that people came on a bike is yet to be confirmed. This thing was inside a shop; the explosion came from the shop. It is an explosion, I can confirm.”

Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Media, Reuben Buhari described the incident as “unfortunate” and urged residents to give peace a chance. He said the government and the security agents will get to the bottom of the blast.

“We understand that the shop owners sell gas cylinders, motor batteries, generating sets and other items capable of causing explosion.

The police are yet to brief the governor on what actually happened and so, we cannot conclude that it is actually a bomb. But we are not leaving anything to chance,” Buhari said.

Eze Igbo-elect Chief Sylvanus Aneke, who visited the scene, urged the traders to remain calm. He said the government will definitely assist the victims.

He said the incident was not targeted at the Igbo, but Kaduna people. “The perpetrators should understand that they are all Nigerians and whatever their grievances are, taking the law into their hands will not solve the problem, but rather aggravate the issue,” Aneke said.

HE Commander of the task force that arrested the late Boko Haram leader, Mohammed Yusuf, on July 30, 2009, Col. Benjamin Ahanotu, has relived the incident.

Col. Ahanotu said his men waded in “when the police could not curtail the crisis”.

He spoke under cross-examination before Justice Donatus Okorowo of an Abuja Federal High Court in the case against five police officers standing trial for allegedly murdering Yusuf.

The police officers and men on trial include: Assistant Commissioners of Police (ACP) J.B. Abang, Y. Akeera and Mada Buba.

The others are Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) Mohammed Ahmadu and Sgt. Adamu Gado.

They are facing a two-count charge of conspiracy to commit an offence, to wit, a terrorist act, contrary to Sections 315 and 516 of the Criminal Code and punishable under Section 15 (1) (2) of the EFCC Act, 2004.

Responding to questions from Kanis Nkpe, counsel to the first to fourth accused, Col. Ahanotu said “Mohammed Yusuf was arrested during an operation.” he said there was “no stiff resistance” from the late Boko Haram leader.

He told the court that military uniforms, AK47 rifles and anti-tank weapons were retrieved from the group in

From Kamarudeen Ogundele, Abuja

the raid.

The witness said before his mysterious death in the police custody, Yusuf had been arrested and released three times by the police.

He said he was aware that the Boko Haram group claimed responsibility for the attacks on the Police Headquarters, the United Nation (UN) House in Abuja, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) office in Suleja, Niger State, and other government establishments.

Col. Ahanotu said the sect has refused to stop carrying out its attacks after the death of Yusuf.

“After handing over Yusuf, I didn’t follow the police to their station”, he added.

The witness on October 24 testified that Yusuf was handed over to the Police alive by the Nigerian Army.

Col. Ahanotu said the original copy of the handover note was with the police authority in Maiduguri. According to him, Yusuf was arrested by his men following an intelligence report that he was hiding in an enclave. He was arrested as his men fled in disarray from the enclave.

The Commander also tendered a photocopy of the handover note and it was marked as an exhibit and admitted by the court.

The trial continues today.

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THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2011

NEWS

How to live above limitations,

by Oyedepo

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HE founder of the Living Faith Church Worldwide, Bishop David Oyedepo, has said people can live without any kind of limitation, if they trust in God. Bishop Oyedepo, whose church is popularly known as Winners Chapel, spoke at the church’s headquarters in Ota, Ogun State late Tuesday night.

It was during the first day of the church’s yearly spiritual feast tagged: Shiloh.

The event, with the theme: ‘’Waves of Glory’, started with an opening service during which Bishop Oyedepo, ministered on: ‘’Unveiling the wonders of faith’’.

The Church’s auditorium christened: ‘Faith Tabernacle’ was packed full of people who shared testimonies ranging from financial breakthrough to healing.

Bishop Oyedepo described this year’s edition as a carnival of signs and wonders, adding that the event is a prophetic platform for empowerment for believers to possess their possession.

“This year’s edition of Shiloh will mark the era of restoration for believers and usher in economic breakthrough,” he said.

The bishop, who attributed the growth of the church to God,

•Crowd of worshippers at the service...on Tuesday night

By Toluwani Eniola

said the church witnessed four miracle births from women who had passed menopause.

Quoting Mathew 9: verse 1 to 8, the bishop said believers can radiate God’s glory if they learn to tap from his words. He urged believers to exhibit aggressive faith, saying it is a spiritual virtue with unlimited power for success.

According to him, Nigerians are not poor because they are

black but because many are blind to the provision of God for their lives in the scripture.

He said: “Faith is a spiritual explosive that devastates the power of the enemy and establish dominion for the children of God. It is a covenant trigger. Your faith can make you function in a divine status where you command the same authority as God. Faith is a spiritual currency of inestimable value. Your faith can make you function in a divine status

PHOTOS: ADEJO DAVID

where you command the same authority as God. “It is by the believing in the word of God that we can change levels and move from one glory to another.

He said it is possible for all Nigerians to live without limits.

According to him, faith can produce a world of no limits where possibility reigns and impossibility is not tolerated.

Bishop Oyedepo also attributed the rise of the church with-

in the year to divine impartation, saying that several multi-billion naira projects are ongoing without any borrowing.

Participants received with acclamation score cards of different endeavours of the church in the year. Over 2000 branches were planted. Landmark University was inaugurated; 206 mission churches were planted overseas; seven secondary schools opened while 44 were established in the primary section; and 523audito-

ICPC quizzes Shekarau over alleged N420m fraud

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HE Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) yesterday said it has quizzed former Kano State Governor, Mallam Ibrahim Shekarau for alleged N420million fraud.

According to a statement by the Resident Media Consultant to the commission, Mr. Folu Olamiti, the governor was the commission’s guest for four hours on Monday.

The statement said: “The exgovernor came into the commission at 4pm and left 8pm.

He was grilled by the special team of ICPC investigators.

Mallam Shekarau is being investigated over an alleged financial scam of N420m.

“In addition, he was asked to answer to allegation of contract inflation, abuse of office and misappropriation of funds.

“The decision to invite him for questioning was prompted by the petition of a Kanobased Non- Governmental Organisation (NGO), alleging breaches of several provisions of the ICPC Act 2000.

From Yusuf Alli, Managing Editor, Northern Operation

“The petitioner also alleged that Shekarau engaged in the diversion or embezzlement of billions of Naira belonging to the state government through a dubious expenditure referred to as “reciprocal arrangement”.

“ICPC operatives took him on over an award of contract for the construction of an 11bedroom apartment to himself to the tune of N286,434,168.51 while in office.

“He was also alleged to have awarded contracts to a company in which he had substantial interest, and paid for furniture twice.

“Before inviting Shekarau the ICPC team of investigators had visited the state and stumbled on a lot of documents in the award of contracts relevant to the petition.

“During the period, the contractor and officials of the state’s Ministry of Works had made useful statements to the commission .

“The contractor handling

‘We are used to these kinds of allegations, this is not the first time. In 2007, when ex-Governor Shekarau wanted to re-contest for governorship, similar allegations were leveled against him that he had various accounts with money stashed abroad but later...’ the project was said to have been mobilised with N119,330,995.91 on October 18, 2007, representing 50 percent of the contract sum, contrary to Section 35 of the Procurement Act which provides for 15 percent mobilisation for any contract awarded.

“ICPC investigators are in the final stage of the investigation, thereafter a final report will go to the Chairman of the

Commission for necessary action.

The ex-governor had through his Special Adviser on Media, Mallam Sule Yau Sule denied misappropriation of funds.

Yau said: “We are used to these kinds of allegations, this is not the first time. In 2007, when ex-Governor Shekarau wanted to re-contest for governorship, similar allegations were leveled against him that he had various accounts with money stashed abroad but later it was proved beyond reasonable doubt by a High Court in Kano that he did not stash funds abroad.

“So, this one is also the same thing because the incumbent government in Kano State had been peddling all kinds of lies and leveling allegations against the former governor.

“Since Governor Rabiu Kwankwanso’s administration came into power, they had investigated all contracts and nothing incriminating was found against Mallam Shekarau.

“They have now resorted to

•Shekarau

making the only house built for the ex-Governor by the state government as an issue just to embarrass him.

“I want to place a record that a law was passed by the Kano State House of Assembly which mandated the state government to build houses for all former governors and deputy governors of Kano State.

Ex-Governor is living in a house legally built for him by the state.”

Transporters back deregulation of oil sector

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HE National Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO), Alhaji Kashim Ibrahim Bataiya yesterday said the association is in support of the deregulation of the downstream sector.

Bataiya made the declaration in an address during a courtesy call on the DirectorGeneral of the State Security Services (SSS), Mr. Ekpeyong Ita in Abuja.

He said: “In my inaugural speech during my swearingin on the 23rd day of November, 2011, at Kano, I pledged that my administration will strive to ensure that the government of Nigeria under the leadership of President Goodluck Jonathan succeeds.

“In that regard, we have

•SSS assures Nigerians of security From Yusuf Alli, Abuja

promised to support government policies designed to deliver the common good to the generality of its citizens which includes but not limited to the following: ·The deregulation of downstream sector of the petroleum industry. ·Infrastructural developments in the areas of Roads, Power and Steel, Health, Education and Agriculture; and ·The provision of Security in Nigeria.

Bataiya however, tabled some demands before the government to make the deregu-

lation effective.

He added: “But we also have our demands. As an association of businessmen involved in the transport sector of the economy; we believe that government support in the following areas will assist us in a reciprocal manner.

“These include: “A comprehensive programme of reconstruction, rehabilitation and repairs of all roads to ease transportation and minimise accidents.

“The removal of the 5 per cent withholding tax imposed on our members transporting petroleum products across Nigeria.

“Provision of adequate highway security to prevent the frequent hijack of our vehicles conveying petroleum products.

“A government scheme that will enable NARTO members’ access to soft loans for vehicle replacement to boost the road transport sub-sector.”

Bataiya praised the SSS for supporting NARTO members nationwide.

He said: “Finally, we wish to place on record once again our appreciation to the State Security Service under your able leadership and all officers and men here at the National Headquarters, Lagos and Kano states command for their cooperation during the build up to our last Annual

General Meeting.”

Replying, Ita assured the NARTO leaders that the government is addressing the security challenges facing the country.

He said: “This Service (SSS) is pro-people and therefore always ready to receive and listen to people no matter their bent of views. Because of the reach of NARTO in every nook and cranny in the country, I urge you to assist the security agencies in their various efforts to overcome the present security challenges in the country.”

“We are doing our best to address the security challenges; you should do your best to assist us.”

•Bishop Oyedepo ministering

rium were completed with astonishing number of people giving their lives to Christ.

The five-day event, which attracts participants from over 44 nations with worldwide satellite transmission of live services will end on Sunday.

Expansion grant crucial to export industry, says CEO THE Chief Executive Officer of Koinonia Ventures, Mr. Olufemi Boyede, yesterday spoke on the Export Expansion Grant Scheme, saying the policy is crucial to the sustenance of the nation’s economy and strategic to the attainment of the vision 20:2020 of the Federal Government.

He gave this insight in view of the incessant interruptions the policy has faced in the recent past.

Boyede, who spoke with reporters at a retreat for National Assembly members on the operations of the scheme, said the after effect of the suspension of the policy is often devastating on the economy, noting that the only way government can help the non-oil export is for it to allow the policy to stay.

He recalled that when the policy was first suspended in 2004, several multinational corporations relocated their export operations from Nigeria, to the benefit of neighbours like Ghana, Togo, and more recently, Republic of Benin.

He, however, added that the EEG has been of tremendous blessing to the non-oil sector of the economy.

He said: “With the EEG, the non-oil export sector has grown at double digits growth rate compared with single digit growth rate of Nigeria’s GDP. This momentum has to be sustained and improved if Nigeria is to progress meaningfully towards achieving Vision 20: 2020.

“Unlike many others government concessions and subsidies, the EEG scheme is for the entirety of the non-oil export sector and not for any particular individual company or set of companies. There is currently no barrier to entry into export activity in Nigeria. There is intense competition in each sub-sector whether it is cocoa or leather products or sesame etc. It is therefore impossible for any one sector or any individual exporter to be able to attain and maintain abnormal profit margins because of EEG.”

THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2011

6

NEWS Ex-minister Daniyan dies at 81

‘Govt went to sleep over negotiation with ASUU’ •Strike stalls varsity’s matriculation •UNIMAID withdraws from action

From Mohammed Bashir, Lokoja

FORMER Minister of National Planning under the late General Sanni Abacha junta Chief Silas Bandele Daniyan, is dead. He was 81.

The late minister, who died in a London hospital on Tuesday night, had battled stroke for many years.

He played a major role in the creation of Kogi State and the enthronement of democracy in Nigeria.

Funeral arrangement is yet to be announced by his family. The late Daniyan is survived by wives and five children.

In a condolence message, Kogi State Governor Ibrahim Idris described the late Daniyan as an astute leader of the state and Mopa land.

In a statement by his Special Assistant (Media Affairs), Farouk Adejoh Audu, the governor noted that the late Ojomu of Mopa land would be remembered for his fatherly role in the development of the state.

From Gbenga Omokhunu, Abuja, Jide Orintunsin, Minna, Joseph Abiodun, Maiduguri and Adeola Ogunlade

•Lawan

T

HE Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Education, Farouk Lawan, yesterday blamed the Federal Government for not doing enough to prevent the ongoing strike by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU).

He said: “The government went to sleep over negotiations.”

The lawmaker spoke when he led his committee members

on an oversight function to the National Universities Commission (NUC).

He expressed disappointment over the way government is handling the strike.

Lawan said: “You know that the National Assembly played a role in resolving the issue of the 2009 crisis, even as ASUU, about two months ago, decided to go on a one-week warning strike. We played a role to ensure that some of the issues were resolved. But the government did not do well. After signing that agreement, it went to sleep. Very little was done. I believe more could have been achieved.

“We cannot afford another prolonged strike because if it happens, it will undermine the

standard of our education and this is why there is a lot of errors. I rather send my child abroad to go and graduate three or four years. I do not see why my child would stay for six or seven years on the same programme while his or her friends abroad would have completed theirs.

“We need to find a way of resolving this strike. I want to assure you that this committee will continue to play its role in ensuring that we address this issue. The reality is that our universities are not properly funded. I will continue to agitate that government is not doing well in that aspect.

“It is important to note that there are lots of challenges facing our university system. I am happy that the Federal Government is planning to set up nine new universities. As at the time that was done, we

had issues with that, because we believe given government’s neglect to existing universities, perhaps more resources should be committed to the existing universities rather than constructing new ones.

“I do not see the priority of going to establish new universities. One would have taught that a more reasonable approach would be to commit more funds to the existing universities so that they can expand their capacity. But for political purposes, the government established nine more universities. And they did that illegally. We need to criminalise the existence of fake universities in the country.”

The strike by the Academic Staff Union of the Nigerian Universities (ASUU) threatens today’s matriculation of new students of the Federal Univer-

Soyinka, others for special awards

Court strikes out appeal against Jang

From Ernest Nwokolo, Abeokuta

NOBEL Laureate Prof. Wole Soyinka and former ViceChancellor of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, Osun State Prof. Wande Abimbola are among eminent personalities, who will receive special awards on Saturday in Abeokuta, Ogun State capital.

The awards would be bestowed on them by the International Council for IFA, Religion for championing the development of the religion.

The global council was established 30 years ago by a group of inspired Ifa priests in Nigeria.

Its aim is to promote, propagate and regulate the religion in the country.

The Secretary-General of the council, Chief Adesina Olatunji-Aresa, told reporters in Abeokuta yesterday that the award is parts of the 10th anniversary of the council and that 58 awards would be bestowed on deserving eminent citizens within and outside the country.

From Yusufu Aminu Idegu, Jos

T

•From left: Minister of Agriculture, Dr. Akinwumi Ayodeji; Minister of Water Resources, Mrs. Sarah Ochekpe; Minister of Aviation, Mrs. Stella Oduah-Ogiemwonyi; and the Minister of State for Education, Mr. Nyeson Wike, at the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting at the Presidential Villa, Abuja...yesterday PHOTO: AKIN OLADOKUN

Atuche granted loans without application, says witness A

LAGOS State High Court, Ikeja, yesterday heard that former Managing Director of Bank PHB Plc (now Keystone Bank), Mr Francis Atuche, granted loans to companies which did not apply for them.

The bank’s Head of Internal Audit Unit, Mr. Waidi Gbadamosi, said Atuche apFrom Johnny Danjuma, proved the facilities without Lafia following banking principles and policies.

FORMER Minister of Defence Gbadamosi was testifying under President Olusegun Obasanjo, General Theophilus at the resumed trial of Atuche, his wife, Elizabeth, Y. Danjuma, has donated a and the bank’s former FinanN300million ultra-modern cial Officer, Mr. Ugo Anyanmedical centre to the Nasarawa State University, Keffi. wu.

The Economic and FinanThe centre, it was learnt, was cial Crimes Commission built by his company, South (EFCC) arraigned them beAtlantic Petroleum Limited.

The facility was inaugurated fore Justice Lateefah Okunnu for allegedly stealing the in company of former bank’s N27.7billion.

Governor of Nasarawa State, Led in evidence by EFCC Alhaji Abdullahi Adamu, the Vice Chancellor of the Univer- counsel, Mr Kemi Pinhero (SAN), Gbadamosi said sity, Professor Shamsudeen loans worth billions of naira Amali, the representative of granted to Petosan Oil & Gas Governor Tanko Almakaura, Limited and others were unTraditional rulers and other usual because there was no dignitaries. official request for them.

Danjuma, who was one of According to him, it is unthe first eminent Nigerians to be conferred with an honorary usual to grant loans worth N1billion and above withdoctorate degree by the out an application, though university in 2005, said the donation of the centre was part there are exceptional cirof his company’s social respon- cumstances under which such loans could be granted. sibility.

Danjuma donates N300m medical centre to varsity

sity of Technology (FUT), Minna, Niger State.

Addressing reporters in Minna after the congress, the Minna branch Chairman of the union, Dr. Bolaji Adeniji said ASUU would end the strike if the Federal Government implements the union’s demands.

Academic activities in the institution have been put on hold.

The University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID) branch of the union yesterday ended its participation in the strike.

This followed a protest by the students, who complained that another strike would prolong their stay in the institution since many of them had overstayed due to earlier actions.

This prompted the ViceChancellor, Prof Muhammed Mala Daura, to call a management meeting, which endorsed the withdrawal of the university from the strike.

Daura announced the resumption of full academic activities immediately and the lecturers were said to have complied.

By Joseph Jibueze

EFCC said the defendants conspired with one another to steal money from the bank, fraudulently describing them as loans to various companies. These include Future View Securities, Extra Oil Limited, Resolution Trust and Investment Limited, Petosan Oil and Gas and Tradjek Nigeria Limited.

The anti-graft agency said the accused allegedly converted the cash to their per-

sonal use to acquire hundreds of millions of units of shares, including 140,625,000 units of Bank PHB shares on behalf of Guesstrade Services.

They also allegedly used over N1 billion, fraudulently described as a loan from the bank, and converted it to their personal use to buy 112,500,000 units of Bank PHB shares on behalf of Sebtron Trading.

Other companies involved in the alleged mul-

ti-billion naira fraud are: Montrax Investico, Claremount Asset Management Limited, Arabian Probity Management, Clearville Business Support, Commercial Trading and Services Limited, Trenton Trade Limited, Stamford Global Concept Limited, Felimon Enterprises, Ghzali Yakubu Investment Limited and AFCO Associates Limited.

Nwosu, Elizabeth and Anyanwu had pleaded not guilty to the counts.

The trial continues on January 18.

HE Court of Appeal in Jos, Plateau State, yesterday struck out the appeal brought before it by the Federal Government against Governor Jonah Jang over who has the power to investigate Jos crises.

The House of Representatives, last year, set up an ad hoc committee to investigate the causes of the crises that erupted in Jos North Local Government Area in November 2008.

The Jang administration challenged the Federal Government at the Federal High Court in Jos. The court held that the power to investigate crises lies within the jurisdiction of the House of Assembly.

The Attorney-General of the Federation and the House of Representatives appealed the verdict.

The appellants and their counsel were yesterday absent from court.

Plateau State AttorneyGeneral Edward Pwajok prayed the court to strike out the appeal, saying the appellants seemed uninterested in the case.

Justice Clara Ogunbiyi affirmed struck out the case.

Flood: Reps urge Fed Govt to pay Sokoto, Kebbi N3.5b

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HE House of Representatives has directed the Federal Government to provide N2billion and N1.5billion in the 2012 budget for Sokoto and Kebbi states to ameliorate the effects of the devastating floods that affected them recently.

The lawmakers also urged the Federal Government to direct the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the Federal Ministry of Health to visit all the resettlement camps in the two states to provide relief materials for flood victims.

From Victor Oluwasegun and Dele Anofi, Abuja

The decision of the House followed the adoption of the recommendations of its Committee on Water Resources’ on the dilapidated Sokoto Rima Basin Authority and the collapse of Goronyo Dam. The report also mandated the Federal Government to set up an inter-ministerial committee, comprising the Ministries of Water Resources, Environment, Works and Power, to design and fund reconstruction of infrastruc-

ture destroyed during the floods in both states.

The federal ministries of Water Resources and Environment were requested to carry out an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) of the Rima River Basin Development Authority (SRRBDA) and its dams.

The lawmakers also said the government should award the contract for the repair of the emergency spillway at the Goronyo Dam. They noted that this would enable the contractor to complete the project before the

beginning of the 2012 rainy season.

The report said the money would assist in reconstructing damaged infrastructure, completing the permanent resettlement sites and providing relief to the victims.

While Federal Ministry of Water Resources was directed to commence the National Dam Safety review to monitor all dams and develop an emergency action plan, the two State governments were also advised to carry out checks on the bridge linking Usman Dan Fodiyo University.

THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2011

7

NEWS Vessel with 17,000 tonnes of oil arrested A VESSEL containing 17,000 tonnes of petroleum products was yesterday arrested by officials of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA).

The vessel, MT BEE, had no valid documentation for its cargo, it was learnt.

The agency’s Director General, Mr. Ziakede Akpobolokemi, told reporters that NIMASA suspected foul play when the captain and the crew declined to allow officials carry out routine Flag State Control checks.

He said: “This led to the NIMASA team calling for reinforcement from the Maritime Guard Command and the team eventually gained access to the Vessel.”

When NIMASA officials boarded the vessel, it was discovered that the vessel was carrying 17,000 tonnes of different mixtures of petroleum products without any form of documentation for its cargo. It was also discoverd that the original name of the Vessel was “MT BEAVER” which was different from the current name “MT BEE”.

Osun to establish Yoruba Academy OSUN State Governor Rauf Aregbesola has said the establishment of a Yoruba Academy would promote the Yoruba culture and language.

He said his administration plans to enact a law that would make it compulsory for every school, both private and public, to include the teaching of Yoruba language in their curriculum.

Aregbesola spoke in Osogbo, the state capital, on Tuesday at his administration’s one year anniversary lecture, entitled: “Reclaiming our cultural concept: Yoruba vegesimal and decimal number system in perspective,” and a book launch.

He lamented that the culture, language and values of the race have faded away.

Aergbesola said: “We will enact a law that will make it compulsory for every school, both private and public, to teach Yoruba language.

“We will take the bill to the House of Assembly latest by February next year and work towards ensuring that by March, it becomes law that every school must comply with.

“We will compel the teaching of Yoruba language in Osun, from elementary to university level.

“Also, we will establish a Yoruba academy for language, culture and tradition, where those interested in learning Yoruba will also learn our culture.”

Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi, who was also at the event, said one of the constraints being faced is the scarcity of Yoruba teachers.

He reiterated the need to revive the values of the race.

Reps slash Jonathan’s virement request by N66b

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RESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan’s N98.4 billion virement was yesterday slashed by members of the House of Representatives.

The lawmakers approved the virement of N31.9 billion, as against the N98.4 requested by President Jonathan in September .

The House also agreed to extend the period of budget implementation till March 31, next year.

From Victor Oluwasegun and Dele Anofi

The extension is to allow for the effective implementation of capital projects in the 2011 Budget.

Members debated the report of the House Committee on Appropriation, headed by John Enoh, and agreed with the committee’s recommendation that the virement for recurrent

expenditure should not be approved, as it is contrary to clause (4) of the 2011 Appropriation Act. The committee also noted that some ministries and agencies were omitted in the virement request.

They include: the ministries of Foreign Affairs; Science and Technology; Culture and Tourism; Mines and Steel; Federal Civil Service Commission; Service Wide Votes; Public Complaints

Commission; National Poverty Eradication Programme (NAPEP); ICPC; and National Sports Commission.

The approved N31,859,945,730 virement would be disbursed as follows: Federal Capital Territory (FCT), N940,703,866; Ministry of Agriculture, N820,650,668; Ministry of Lands, Housing and Urban Development, N2, 900,000,000; Ministry of Ni-

ger Delta Affairs, N10,900,000,000; and Ministry of Aviation, N3,953,000,000.

Others are: Ministry of Education, N538,285,620; Defence/Nigerian Army, N1,000,000,000; National Sports Commission, N810,667,452; Ministry of Health, N6,549,000,000; Police formations and command, N3,400,000,000 and Public Complaint Commission, N15,000,000.

Reps set to pass Same Sex Prohibition Bill From Victor Oluwasegun and Dele Anofi, Abuja

T

•From left: Human Rights Activist Mr. Bamidele Aturu; President, Women Arise & Campaign for Democracy(CD) Dr. Joe Okei-Odumakin; Consul General, United States Consulate General, Lagos, Mr. Joseph D. StaffordIII; former President of Civil Liberties Organisation (CLO) Mrs. Ayo Obe; and former Director of Programmes, Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR) Mr. Shina Laremikan at a parley on human rights...yesterday .

ACF cautions Fed Govt on state creation

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HE Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has warned the Federal Government against the creation of more states and local governments.

The Forum spoke yesterday in Kaduna at the end of a conference on “Peace and Unity.”

In a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Anthony Sani, ACF said the creation of states, local governments and chiefdoms created more problems for the nation in the past.

It said the exercise is a mere multiplication of efforts without an equivalent socioeconomic development.

The forum identified some of the country’s problems and proposed solutions to them.

It said: “Corruption stirs communal violence, conflict and insecurity. State governments must do more to fight corruption and not leave it to the Federal Gov-

•Proffers solutions to nation’s problems From Tony Akowe, Kaduna

ernment alone. Leaders are also enjoined to live by example.

“We deliberated on the differences which divide the people and resolved to appeal to governments, religious leaders, traditional rulers, partisan politicians and community leaders to close ranks and work hard to overcome their differences. “ Reconciliation that goes with true forgiveness, through dialogue and due process of law, is not an act of cowardice but patriotic courage.

“We also discussed the factors causing poverty, illiteracy, ignorance, unemployment, criminality, bad governance and the failure of the Judiciary to deliver substantial justice.

“For effective law and order to take root, security agencies must share intelligence and have early warning systems through proactive mechanism.

“The Judiciary is expected to deliver substantive and not technical justice because national security suffers from lack of justice.

“We view the high level of frustration among the youth as a result of unemployment and appeal to governments at various levels and well-to-do northerners to do all they can to arrest the situation.

“Additional efforts should be made to expand educational infrastructure and opportunities for our children, particularly the almajiri. We advise state governments in the North to make funds avail-

able for them through the Universal Basic Education (UBE) scheme.

“On politically induced tensions and insecurity, we urge political leaders to play by the rules of political contests and grow our democracy to attain universal standard.

“Communal conflicts, which stem from ethnic nationalism, derive from failure of leaders to exercise power that is inclusive, humane, wise and moral. As a result, distribution of access to state resources is perceived as unfair.

“That may account for the rise of indigene/settler divide.

To address this problem, we urge the National Assembly to remove matters connected with citizenship from the exclusive to the concurrent list in the Constitution.

HE Same Sex Marriage Prohibition Bill passed through its first reading at the House of Representatives yesterday.

The Senate last week passed the bill to criminalise gay marriage, with a 14-year jail term punishment for offenders.

The proposed legislation was thereafter sent to the House of Representatives .

If the bill is passed by the House, it would be sent to the President and would become a law if the President assents to it.

Other punitive measures in the proposed law stipulates that anyone aiding same sex marriage could be sentenced to 10 years imprisonment.

The bill makes it illegal to register gay clubs or organisations and public show of samesex amorous relationships.

Those who violate these laws would also face 10 years imprisonment.

‘No Nigerian left in Saudi Arabia’ From Bukola Amusan, Abuja

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HE National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) yesterday said the 99,000 Nigerian pilgrims on hajj to Saudi Arabia are back home.

NAHCON National Commissioner for Planning and Research Dr. Saleh Okenwa told reporters in Abuja that the last batch of pilgrims arrived in Nigeria on Tuesday.

He identified indiscipline as the major challenge of the 2011 Hajj .

Okenwa said: ”Some pilgrims delayed the screening process at the airport by travelling with excess hand luggages and prohibited items, thereby making the screening period of just two hours to extend to between eight to 10 hours.

‘How regional integration will aid Southwest ‘

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HAIRMAN of the Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) Elias Mba yesterday urged the six Southwest states to pull their resources together and float an independent power station, which would address the region’s energy need and diversify its revenue base.

He spoke with reporters in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital, after a sensitisation workshop the commission or-

•Nigeria has 34 untapped minerals, says RMAFC chief From Ernest Nwokolo, Abeokuta

ganised for states and local governments in the Southwest on “Economic diversification for sustainable development.”

Mba said states have depended for too long on Federal Government allocations derived from oil and gas money.

He said it was time each region of the country looked inward, integrate and produce what it has comparative advantage over others.

Citing power station as an example, Mba said power supply is cost intensive and besides Lagos, no other state in the Southwest can generate power and supply same independently.

He said: “It will be easier

and more functional if regions come together to develop a power generating station, because some states may not be able to fund a power station.

“Apart from Lagos, I doubt if any other state in the Southwest will be able to fund power supply.

“But if they come together, they can do that and so many other things. Before the oil and gas boom, remember the Co-

coa House; it was done by the old Western Region.

“We are not saying we should go back to regions, but there is nothing wrong in looking at areas where we have comparative advantage, pooling resources together and developing it in the interest of the people.”

Mba said there are 34 untapped minerals in the country, despite their potentials to generate huge revenue and employment.

THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2011

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NEWS Ekiti CNPP backs ACN candidate for rerun

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HE Conference of Nigerian Political Parties (CNPP) in Ekiti State has adopted Mr. Oyetunde Ojo of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) as its candidate for Saturday's House of Representatives rerun in Ekiti Central Federal Constituency II. State CNPP Chairman Prince Tunji Ogunlola said the decision followed the "good performance of the ACN-led administration in the state."

Ogunlola said the only way to complement Governor Kayode Fayemi's effort to deliver good governance is to vote for Ojo. He said: "A few days ago, the Fayemi administration flagged off the repair and construction of 13 roads across the state, worth N12 billion, to make life easier for road users.

"We want Ekiti people to think deeply about the developmental projects on ground, which have positive effects on every sector of life, and vote en masse for Ojo to enable Ekiti people have one voice at the National Assembly.

"This will make the government of Ekiti State to be more meaningful, stable and rightly positioned to accomplish its eight-point agenda.

"We appeal to all concerned parties to embrace peace and cooperate with the law enforcement agencies to have a free and fair election that is devoid of thuggery and rigging."

‘Re-ordered Ondo budget legal’

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HE Ondo State House of Assembly yesterday said the passage of the N143 billion re-ordered budget last Thursday was in line with its constitutional role.

It said the re-ordered budged was an amendment to items in the 2011 Budget and not a supplementary budget.

The Chairman, House Committee on Information, Oye Aladetan, said the re-ordered budget was to move funds from less active areas to more active ones.

Aladetan said N58.190 billion of the fund is for recurrent expenditure. The N85.310b is for capital expen-

From Damisi Ojo, Akure

diture.

He said: "We are performing our oversight function as dictated by the constitution to make laws and the appropriation law is no exception.

"The law of appropriation was amended by the House last Thursday between 10am and 12:22pm. It was not passed in the evening as is being speculated in some quarters".

Also yesterday, the House screened three commissionernominees. They are Niran Akinsuyi, Bekekhimi Idhiarhi and Dr. Bode Omolaja.

•Ajimobi (middle); the panel members; and the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Dr. Adeolu Akande (second left)...yesterday PHOTO:OYO STATE GOVERNMENT HOUSE.

Panel recommends upgrade of Ibadan Poly to varsity T HE Visitation Panel to The Polytechnic, Ibadan, yesterday recommended that the institution be upgraded to a university.

The panel was constituted on October 20 by Governor Abiola Ajimobi to look into how the school could be improved.

The panel's Chairman, Prof. Olusegun Kolawole, made the recommendation while submitting its report to the governor. It also called

for the upgrade of the polytechnic's satellite campuses in Eruwa and Saki to autonomous institutions.

The panel said Oyo is the only state in the Southwest without a state university, adding that the polytechnic has all the facilities needed in a university.

It recommended that the

state should probe poorly executed projects and alleged mismanagement of project funds.

The panel called for an upward review of the annual capital grant given to the institution and the percentage of capital grants to revenue grant.

It said the school's man-

Robbery scare shuts down Ibadan banks

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ANKS in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, hurriedly closed yesterday, following rumours of an impending robbery.

Customers, who were already in the banking halls, were asked to leave.

Other businesses were also affected. Traders at Challenge, Ring Road, Molete, Apata and some other

From Oseheye Okwuofu, Ibadan

areas also closed their shops in fear.

It was learnt that at about 9.40am, bank executives received reports that robbers were planning to attack some banks in the city.

Many banks called for police protection. Mobile

policemen were deployed in areas with large concentration of banks, such as Dugbe, Mokola and Challenge.

There was a heavy presence of security operatives in the city as Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) were stationed at strategic locations.

Markets were also deserted.

Ekiti councils get caretaker committees

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HE Ekiti State Government yesterday dissolved caretaker committees in the 16 local government councils and reconstituted new ones.

The Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr. Yinka Oyebode, said the tenure of the dissolved committees had expired.

The new committees will be sworn in today at the

From Sulaiman Salawudeen, Ado-Ekiti

Lady Jibowu Hall, Government House, at 4pm.

The caretaker council chairmen are: Mrs. Fumilola Adeyemo, AdoEkiti; Mrs. Omonusi Anthonia, Ekiti-East; Mr. O. Atibioke, Ijero; Mr. Sola Fakanle, Ekiti West; Mr. Gbenga Omole, Ikere; Mrs. Funke Owoseni, Ikole; and

Mr. Rotimi Afolabi, Ido/ Osi. Others are: Dr. Clement Ayeni, Moba; Mr. Abegunde Muyiwa, Emure; Rev. Femi Ojo, Ilejemeje; Dr. Azeez Olaniyan, Ekiti Southwest; Mr. Abimbola Awe, Gbonyin; Mr. Aluko Femi, Irepodun/Ifelodun; Chief Joel Omoniyi, Efon; Mr. Olorunsola Osuolale, Oye; and Mr. Ojo Abayomi, Ise/Orun.

agement should be made to comply with existing rules and regulations on matters affecting the polytechnic.

The panel also recommended that the institution's staff, whose appointments were wrongfully terminated, should be reinstated.

It also called for the establishment of a Bureau for Tertiary Institution (BTI).

Ajimobi assured the panel that its recommendations would be implemented.

Ogun gets Security Trust Fund

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HE Ogun State Government has established a Security Trust Fund.

The Trust Fund is expected to formulate policies on crime prevention and control, as well as assist government to raise funds to combat crime.

A former Director-General of the State Security Service (SSS) and Deputy National Security Adviser to the President, Col. Kayode Are (rtd.) has been appointed Chairman of the Trust Fund.

Members are: Managing Director, WEMPCO Group, Ibafo. Mr. Roberts Tung; Managing Director, VeeVee Industries, Ota, Mr. Rajan Vaswani; and Managing Director, Glaxo Smithkline Plc, Agbara, Chidi Okoro.

Others are: Lagos lawyer Bisi Adegbuyi and representatives of the Police, Nigerian Army, SSS, Special Adviser to the Governor on Security and banks.

The secretariat of the Trust Fund will be headed by an Executive Secretary.

Lagos Assembly inaugurates House committees

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HE Lagos State House of Assembly has inaugurated 21 standing committees.

The committee chairmen are: House Services and Special Duties Committee, Ipoola Omisore (IfakoIjaiye II); Public Account (State), Yussuf Ayinla (Mushin II); Public Account (Local Government), Saka Fafunmi (Ifako-Ijaiye I); Agriculture and Cooperatives, Ibrahim Layode (Badagry I); Local Government Administration and

By Oziegbe Okoeki

Chieftaincy Affairs, Olanrewaju Oshun (Lagos Mainland II); and Budget and Economic Planning, Mudashiru Obasa (Agege I).

Others are: Education, Science and Technology, Wahab Alawiye (Lagos Island II); Environment, Abiodun Tobun (Epe I); Establishment and Training, Omowunmi Olatunji-Edet (Oshodi-Isolo II); Finance, Adefunmilayo Tejuoso (Mushin I); Health

Services Committee, Hodewu Avoseh (Badagry II); Home Affairs, Culture, Tourism and Intergovernmental Relations, Kabir Lawal (Surulere I); Youth Sports and Social Development, Babatunde Ayeni (Oshodi-Isolo 1); and Judiciary, Sanai Agunbiade (Ikorodu I).

The rest are: Lands and Housing, Bayo Oshinowo (Kosofe I); Physical Planning and Urban Development, Mufutau Egberongbe (Apapa I); Transportation,

Commerce and Industry, Bisi Yusuf (Alimosho I); Women Affairs, Omotayo Oduntan (Alimosho II); Works and Infrastructure, Rotimi Olowo (Shomolu I); Energy, Mineral Resources and Waterfront Infrastructure, Lanre Ogunyemi (Ojo II); and Information, Strategy and Public Relations, Segun Olulade (Epe II).

The 2012 Appropriation Bill also passed through its second reading and was reffered to the committees for detailed analysis.

THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2011

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THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2011

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NEWS

Sack twist: Fed Govt accepts ex-minister’s resignation

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HE Federal Government has accepted the resignation of ex-Minister of Sports Alhaji Yusuf Suleiman following the resolution of the communication gap that led to his sack last Friday.

With the development, the coast is now clear for the former minister to face the screening committee of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for Sokoto Governorship poll tomorrow.

But in an emotional letter to President Goodluck Jonathan, the former minister said the President is his “role model” because of his transparent leadership.

Investigation by our correspondent showed that alleged communication gap over the submission of resignation letter by the ex-minister led to

•Says President is my role model From Yusuf Alli, Abuja

his dismissal last Friday.

It was learnt that the President had given the ex-minister till 2pm to resign from the cabinet but when the deadline expired, he ordered Yusuf Suleiman sacked.

It was gathered however that the former minister had sent his resignation letter through the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation.

The transmission of the letter to the President was alleged to have taken a longer process beyond the deadline.

Findings however confirmed that the mix up had been amicably addressed in order not to jeopardise the

•Coast clear for Yusuf Suleiman to face screening tomorrow

political career of the ex-minister.

In a letter, which was dated December 2 and exclusivelyobtained by our correspondent, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator Anyim Pius Anyim accepted the resignation of the ex-minister.

The letter reads: “I refer to your letter dated 2nd December, 2011 addressed to Mr. President on the above subject and write to convey Mr. President’s acceptance of your resignation as a Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria with effect from 2nd December, 2011.

“I am to convey Mr. President’s appreciation for the service you rendered to the nation during your tenure as

‘In a letter, which was dated December 2 and exclusivelyobtained by our correspondent, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator Anyim Pius Anyim accepted the resignation of the exminister. the Honourable Minister and Chairman of the Sports Commission. I wish you God’s guidance and best of luck in your future endeavours.”

Earlier, the former minister,

in a separate letter to the President, described his former boss as a “role model” and gave reasons why he left the cabinet.

The letter reads in part: “I most respectfully write to inform Your Excellency of the decision of our party elders and leaders in Sokoto State to invite me to contest for the Governorship election in the state scheduled for March 7, 2012.

“It is therefore with a heavy heart and deep sense of responsibility that I seek Your Excellency’s kind permission and approval to formally disengage and resign from the Federal Executive Council and as Minister of the Government of the Federation with effect from Friday,

2nd December 2011.

“Your Excellency sir, I want to formally convey my utmost appreciation and very sincere gratitude for the opportunity you gave me to serve this great country, first as Minister of Transport in the last administration and now as Minister and Chairman of the National Sports Commission.

“Your Excellency, I must thank and express my heartfelt gratitude and respect to you particularly in the manner you consistently provide genuine and transparent leadership in the governance of this country.

“I must confess, you have endeared in me as a role model on all that is good in leadership.

“I shall treasure my learning experiences with you for a life time. I am indeed honoured to be part of your transformation team and shall continue to champion the noble ideals and programmes of your administration.

“I will always be proud to identify with and promote the good cause of this administration. Your Excellency, I thank you immensely for the opportunity. With highest personal regards, I remain loyally yours.”

A close associate of the former minister, ‘Lolu Olaworo-Ogunlusi, said: “It is definitely a good thing to make the records straight.

Yes, indeed, he resigned his appointment as soon as he decided that he would respond to the pleadings by the elders in Sokoto State to contest the governorship. It is selfless service to his people.”

Waziri for course in UK From Yusuf Alli, Abuja

THE immediate past Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, (EFCC), Mrs. Farida Waziri left for the United Kingdom yesterday to attend a leadership course in a prestigious institution.

The course will be preceded by a three-week vacation.

According to a source, Mrs. Waziri traveled aboard a British Airways flight from the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.

One of her aides, who spoke in confidence, said: “She deserves some rest after working tirelessly for about four years without going on vacation.

“So, she is going to spend part of her time abroad to rest and thereafter begin a leadership training course in a notable higher institution in the UK.” The source hinted that the vacation will afford the anti-corruption czar the opportunity of putting together her experience as EFCC boss and Nigeria’s fight against corruption in a book.

The source added: “In all, I think she is in high spirit and grateful to God that she has fought a dangerous battle without losing her life and honour.

THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2011

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BUSINESS THE NATION

E-mail:- bussiness@thenationonlineng.net

Shell, Eni buy Nigeria’s $1b oil block

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OYAL Dutch Shell and Eni have bought the prospective Nigerian deep offshore oil block OPL 245, the companies said yesterday, ending a decade of legal disputes over the huge asset.

Shell and Eni said they would own the block equally, but the Italian firm would be the operator. The companies did not confirm how much was paid or the size of reserves but industry experts have said OPL 245 was worth over $1 billion and holds about nine billion barrels of oil.

The prospect sits near Total’s Akpo block, which has plateau production of around 175,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day.

“The Nigerian government has awarded Agip (Eni) and ourselves OPL 245 on a 50-50 basis. Agip will operate the block,” a Shell spokesman in Nigeria told Reuters. He said the deal was completed in “recent weeks”.

The block was owned by a local Nigerian firm Malabu Oil and Gas, which is owned by former oil minister Dan Etete.

Shell has been tussling over the asset with Malabu for 10 years.

Shell and Eni told Reuters that the money for purchasing the OPL 245 was paid to the government and not to Malabu.

“We confirm that the Federal Government has allocated the deepwater offshore block OPL 245 jointly to Nigeria Agip Exploration (NAE) and Shell Nigeria E&P Company,” an Eni statement said.

“By the agreement reached, NAE will be the operator of the block. No agreement was entered into by NAE and Malabu Oil and Gas,” the statement said. A spokesman for the Federal Ministry of Petroleum Resources declined comments.

Corporate governance establishes standards of conduct and work on relationships of teams It looks at the composition of directors, their skills and competence.

-Dr Oba Otudeko, Chairman, Honeywell Group

New maritime security agency splits Senate T U HE Senate was sharply divided yes terday over a Bill that seeks to create a Maritime Security Co-ordinating Agency in four zones in the country.

But it allayed fears over the delay in the presentation of the 2012 budget by President Goodluck Jonathan to the National Assembly.

Though the Bill attracted a sizeable support that enabled it to scale second reading, some Senators expressed palpable fears of possible conflict of roles between the proposed agency and the Nigeria Navy.

The agency, if established, would be charged with the security on the country’s waterways.

Senate Leader, Senator Victor Ndoma-Egba in his lead debate, noted that the country loses over $26.3 billion yearly to bunkering, poaching and piracy attacks annually.

The executive Bill is entitled: ‘’A Bill for an Act to

• Fears over 2012 budget allayed From Onyedi Ojiabor, Assistant Editor

Establish the Maritime Security Agency to Promote Maritime Security and for other Related Purposes.

Ndoma-Egba listed some of the challenges of the maritime environment to include poaching of about $800 million yearly, criminal/piracy resulting in loss of about $9 billion per annum and bunkering, which leads to losses of $15.5 billion per year, among others.

But what followed the lead debate was a torrent of opposition and support.

Senator Ahmed Lawan (Yobe North) led those who opposed the Bill.

Deputy Senate President, Senator Ike Ekweremadu, threw his weight behind the Bill.

He noted that the security

challenges facing the country had made the establishment of the agency imperative.

Deputy Senate Leader, Senator Abdul Ningi (Bauchi Central), however, opposed the creation of the new body.

Senator Sola Adeyeye (Osun Central) in his contribution saw the Bill as an attempt to duplicate agencies.

Senate President, David Mark, noted that “security is not cheap any where in the world.”

After a voice vote, the bill was referred to the joint committee on Marine, Transport, National Security and Navy.

The Bill could not be passed during the Sixth Senate.

Meanwhile, the Senate noted that the delay in the

presentation of the budget will not affect the performance of the budget.

Chairman, Senate Committee on Media, Information and Public Affairs, Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, stated this in response to doubts expressed by some Senators over possible negative impact in the implementation of the budget.

He assured that the 2012 budget does not stand the risk of underperforming since it forms part of the Medium Term Fiscal Framework (MTEF) being considered by the Senate.

Members of the Senate Committee on Federal Character and Inter-governmental Affairs had raised doubts over the implementation of the 2012 budget.

The lawmakers had during an oversight tour of Nigeria Extractive Industries and Transparency Initiatives (NEITI) in Abuja, raised fears that the 2012 budget may fall short of performing up to 50 as a result of delay in its passage.

NSE JSE NYSE LSE

-N6.503 trillion -Z5.112trillion -$10.84 trillion -£61.67 trillion RATES

Inflation -10.3% Treasury Bills -7.08% Maximum lending-22.42% Prime lending -15.87% Savings rate -2% 91-day NTB -15% Time Deposit -5.49% MPR -12% Foreign Reserve $32.820b FOREX CFA EUR £ $ ¥ SDR RIYAL

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0.2958 206.9 242.1 151.8 1.9179 238 40.472

NITED Bank for Africa (UBA) said yesterday it had issued a N35 billion ($217million) bond paying a 14 per cent coupon. The second tranche of a N400 billion debt issuance programme was launched in October, last year.

The debt offer, which matures in 2018, received a 100 per cent subscription from six applications, the bank said in a notice.

Reuters News said UBA raised N20billion ($130 million) seven-year debt at 13 per cent last October from local investors and pension funds, the first tranche of the N400 billion bond issuance programme, to strengthen its capital base and help increase lending.

It listed the first tranche on the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE).

UBA, which operates in 19 African countries and manages more than 7.5 million bank accounts, has been raising capital to enable it turn deposits into loans, without breaching the regulator’s limits on a bank’s exposure to a single borrower. .

It aimed to grow its loan book by 15-20 per cent this year.

In October, UBA said it was planning a private placement and a rights issue to help support largeticket lending in infrastructure and agriculture sectors, but it did not disclose how much it intended to raise and at what price.

Access Bank to raise share capital to N13b

DATA STREAM COMMODITY PRICES Oil -$115.3/barrel Cocoa -$2,686.35/metric ton Coffee - ¢132.70/pound Cotton - ¢95.17pound Gold -$1,800/troy ounce Rubber -¢159.21pound MARKET CAPITALISATIONS

UBA issues N35b debt at 14%

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• From left: Group Managing Director, Sterling Bank Plc, Yemi Adeola, signing a Tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the financing of the 2012 farming season ... in Abuja. With him are Minister of Finance, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo–Iweala and DG, Debt Management Office (DMO), Dr. Abraham Nwankwo.

CBN flays incessant ex-parte injunctions by judges

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HE Governor of the Central Bank of Nige ria, Mallam Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, has frowned at the incessant granting of interlocutory and ex-parte injunctions by judges handling financial disputes.

Sanusi, who disclosed this in Abuja yesterday at the 11th National Seminar on Banking and Allied Matters for judges, said such orders, do not serve any useful purposes.

Consequently, he called for a robust legal framework for enforcing property and contract rights.

The most recent of such reversals was three weeks ago,

From Nduka Chiejina Assist.

Editor, Abuja

when Justice Charles Archibong of the Federal High Court in Lagos reversed his earlier order temporarily halting the operations of the three banks that were nationalised by the apex bank.

The three banks are Mainstreet (Afribank), Keystone (Bank PHB) and Enterprise (Spring Bank).

In the new order, Justice Archibong said the order granted earlier was made specifically to freeze dealings in the equity of the affected banks in relation to the relief in the main application of the applicants for the enforce-

ment of their fundamental rights in the suit.

The judge added that the order was not intended to freeze the daily business or banking operations of the affected banks.

He submitted that the order was not intended to interfere with the management of the banks in any way other than to freeze dealings with the equity of the targeted banks.

Archibong, while ruling on the ex-parte application filed

by Chuks Nwachuku, on behalf of some aggrieved shareholders of the former banks, had restrained the banks from further dealing with the assets, businesses and operations of

the three banks pending the determination of the motion on notice.

An injunction is a court order that requires a party to do or refrain from doing certain acts. A party that fails to comply with an injunction faces criminal or civil penalties and may have to pay damages or accept sanctions.

Meanwhile, CBN Director, Legal Department, Mr Simon Onekutu, who represented the CBN Governor, said: “A pool of well paid, intellectually sound judges of unblemished character was vital for the success of the reforms in the banking sector.”

CCESS Bank has said it will hold a shareholder meeting on Friday, December 30 to discuss increasing its share capital to N13billion ($80.47 million), from its current N10 billion, by issuing six billion new shares.

In October, the bank completed the acquisition of its 75 per cent majority interest in rescued lender Intercontinental Bank.

Intercontinental was one of nine banks rescued in a $4 billion 2009 Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) bailout.

All rescued lenders have now agreed to recapitalisation deals, bringing to a close a reform programme set-up two years ago to draw a line under the country’s banking crisis.

Access Bank said in October that its pre-tax profit rose by 16.78 per cent to N16.42 billion in the nine months to September, compared to N14.06 billion in the same period last year.

THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2011

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BUSINESS NEWS

CBN intervenes as naira falls

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HE naira weakened against the United States’dollar at the interbank market and biweekly forex auction yesterday, with the auction, a separate Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) intervention and dollar sales from a gas firm, all failing to meet robust demand.

The local currency, according to Bloomberg News, closed at N161.80 to the dollar on the interbank market, compared with N161.55 at Tuesday’s close.

“As you can see, the demand at the official window is not a true reflection of what is happening in the economy.There is latent demand for the dollar, which is putting pressure on the local currency at the interbank market,” one dealer said.

Traders said the CBN official continue to advise banks on the amount of dollars to be demanded and rate quote to reduce pressure on

the bi-weekly auction.

The apex bank sold only $200 million at N156.70 to the dollar on the bi-weekly auction yesterday, short of the $245 million demanded but at par with the $200 million sold at N156.50 a dollar on Monday.

The Nigerian Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) company sold unspecified amount of dollars to some lenders, while the banking watchdog also intervened at the interbank market towards the end of business, but not enough to calm the market.

“The market failed to react to the inflows from the gas company and direct sales to some banks by the CBN because of strong demand in the market,” another dealer said.

Traders said the naira will continue to depreciate in the near term unless there is a large dollar inflow from the oil companies or the CBN to increase the volume of direct sales to banks.

• From left: Chairman, Transcorp Plc, Mr Tony Elumelu; Director-General, Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), Mr Oscar Onyema; NSE’s Mrs. Josephine Igbinosun and President/CEO, Transcorp Plc, Mr Obinna Ufudo, during a board governance retreat, organised by Transcorp, in Lagos.

Reps investigate $470m Abuja CCTV contract

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HE House of Repre sentatives has ex pressed doubts over adherence to due diligence in the contract awarded a Chinese firm for the provision of Close Circuit Television Cameras (CCTV) in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The lawmakers’ resolve was triggered by alleged secrecy attached to the contract and the alleged insistence of the contractor, ZTE Corporation, that the contractual details of the transaction with the Federal Government cannot be made public.

From Victor Oluwasegun and Dele Anofi, Abuja

According to the lawmakers, such gesture amount to a clear violation of the doctrine of transparency, accountability and an infringement of the laws of our country. At yesterday’s plenary presided over by the Deputy Speaker Emeka Ihedioha, a joint committee was mandated to determine the allegation of lack of transparency in the contract as well as the use of sub standard materials by the Chi-

nese company.

The decision of the legislators followed the adoption of a motion by Hassan Saleh (PDP, Benue) titled “need to investigate the $470 million National Security Communications System (NPSCS) Abuja contract”.

He said the Federal government has made a 15 percent down payment, amounting to $70.5 million of the total contract and has signed a sovereign guarantee to the tune of $399m to enable ZTE source for loans from the Chinese government for the project.

Glo N1b promo: 10 winners collect cheques

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EN lucky winners, including a re tiree, who have won prizes in the Glo N1billion SIM registration promo, have been presented with their cheques of N1 million each at a special ceremony at Globacom’s corporate headquarters in Lagos.

The winners, according to a statement from Globacom, include Adetayo Shakiru Sanni, Ajibade Oloruntoba, Alabi Fatai Olawale, Musa Jimoh and Awaye Abosede Adeola. Others are Adebayo Moses, Oladejo Tunde, Jide Adebayo, Akinbobola Raphael and Odetayo Afolabi.

Mrs Adeola, who got a call that she won N1 million in the promo just six

days after her retirement from the Oyo State Civil Service, said she was grateful to God and to Glo for the special blessing.

“I never expected this just six days after starting my retirement. I was not sure of what to do next. But now, I am grateful to God and to Glo for using this to open a new door of opportunity for me,” she said.

Sanni said he was surprised when he got a confirmation that he had won N1 million in the promo on his wife’s birthday.

“Winning N1 million for just registering my SIM is pure divine intervention. I want to thank Glo very much for rewarding their subscribers on a regular basis. I am now going to ‘rule my world’,” he said.

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INDUSTRY

LCCI Europe’s debt crisis a threat to global economy •Chamber elects Ibru president T

HE Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) has described Europe’s debt crisis as a threat to the global economy.

The spread of the crisis is worrisome because it can trigger another recession, LCCI immediate past president Femi Deru said.

Deru spoke during the Chamber’s 123rd Annual General Meeting (AGM) and Investiture of Mr Goddie Ibru, as President. He explained that the crisis is happening at a time when Nigeria and many economies are yet to recover from the shocks of the 2008 economic recession.

The unfolding scenario calls for a strategic and proactive thinking by investors to cope with the possible outcome of the crisis, he said.

Deru said: “In spite of the gloomy report we believe that there is a bright side to the Nigerian economy. Ours is a resilient economy with good demographics and capable of withstanding shocks. We have a good crop of entrepreneurs with the right vision and energy. It is my belief that once we get the political governance systems and structure right, all other things will fall in place,” he said.

On the security situation, Deru

Toba Agboola and Paul Oluwakoya

said security in the country was a major cause for concern to investors in the outgoing year. He pointed out that the immediate impact was the aggravation of investment risk and the associated perception problems for the country.

He said the phenomenon of attacks assumed a dimension, which was unprecedented in the history of the country.

“It is important that appropriate strategies are immediately put in place to fix the problem, especially through the strengthening of security intelligence,” he said.

Deru pointed out that economic and business performance in the outgoing year was mixed, stressing that the performance of the economy was remarkable in theoretical terms.

In his words: “According to the Nigeria Bureau of Statistics, overall Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth rate for the 2011 is projected at 7.85 per cent recorded in 2010.

However, in practical terms from the perspective of the private sector, the economic conditions were difficult and the challenges of doing business remained formidable.”

He stated that the business envi-

‘This imposed additional strain on businesses because of the high import content in the production and value chain of many firms. The depreciation of the naira poses a major risk to business profitability and sustainability’

ronment was characterised by a harsh operating environment resulting in high cost of doing business. He listed the major elements of these constraints to include the poor state of infrastructure; cost, access to funds; deregulation of the naira; bureaucratic bottlenecks; corruption and the likes.

He noted the naira came under pressure in the third quarter of the

year, resulting in significant depreciation over the previous quarter.

“It declined from about N155 to N160 to the dollar in the parallel market and from 150 to 155 naira in the official market. This imposed additional strain on businesses because of the high import content in the production and value chain of many firms.

The depreciation of the naira

poses a major risk to business profitability and sustainability,” he said.

He noted that the cost of funds was still generally high saying that lending rates are still in the range of 20 to 30 per cent depending on the profile of the borrower. This he said ceggravates the problem of high operating cost.

“Monetary policy tightening by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) in the last quarter of the year escalated this crisis”, he added.

•Ibru (left) in a handshake with Deru, at the event

Data on MSMEs out next year, says SMEDAN

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HE number of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) will be unveiled in the first quarter of next year, Director-General of the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), Alhaji Muhammed Nadada Umar has said.

The exercise is a collaboration between SMEDAN and the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).

He spoke at SMEDAN Headquarters in Abuja, while receiving a team from the Deutcshe Gesellschaft fur Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), a German organisation working on a private-sector development programme named Sustainable Economic Development in Nigeria (SEDIN).

The team was presented an enterprise survey report in three selected.

Umar challenged other agencies of government to forge partnerships with SMEDAN to fast track the development of the SME subsector to rid the country of unemployment and poverty.

He said the challenge to achieving the objectives of Vision 20:2020 did not lie in the number of agencies of government mandated to ensure its success, but in their commitment and willingness to forge a common front and complement one another in carrying out their various mandates.

“No matter how excellent government’s policies are,” he enthused, “success cannot be achieved if relevant stakeholders do not come together to make it work.

This is why SMEDAN welcomes collaborations with other agencies

that share our passion to achieve positive change in transforming our economy to a more vibrant one” Head of the GIZ delegation handling the baseline survey on the performance and impact of MSME policy and programme implementation in the country, Mr Manfred Matzdorf, said that GIZ, which aims at improving the access of MSMEs to financial services, was partnering with SMEDAN owing to its strategic mandate of identifying business and trade constraints and providing workable solutions in the business environment, a cardinal objective of the SEDIN enterprise survey, as well as to avoid duplicity of effort in respect to the performances of the MSMEs in Nigeria.

He said: “The enterprise sample survey is part of the effort to obtain a better picture of the private sector including MSMEs, their performance, business plans, constraints, the scope and need for improvement by public and private sectors.

The main objective is to increase the effectiveness of MSME policies through a medium-term strategy and action plan. Hence, the intention is to supplement the database currently being worked on by SMEDAN and NBS with reliable and more disaggregated data from the three selected pilot states we are researching.”

He said other purposes of the survey, which is on-going in Niger, Plateau and a yet-to-be-selected state between Kwara, Oyo and Ogun, include assisting SMEs obtain the required investment and innovation they need to become nationally, regionally and globally competitive.

•From left: Finance Minister, Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala; former British Prime Minister and guest speaker, Gordon Brown and Chairman, Organising Committee, Rivers State Investors Committee, Mr Atedo Peterside, at the opening ceremony of the Rivers State investors forum in Port Harcourt, recently.

Experts seek cashew nut industry’s revival

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HE uncoordinated approach o cashew farming and export opportunities has undermined Africa at the global market, stakeholders have said.

The stakeholders, spoke at the National Cashew Summit organised by Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC) in partnership with Africa Cashew Alliance (ACN) , and other key private sectors in the industry.

They noted that Nigeria despite its potential was faced with challenges to get the positive impact.

The stakeholders listed such problems to include poor value chain, access to market, unfavourable policies, among others.

Minister of Agriculture and Rut

By Toba Agboola

ral Development , Dr Akinwunmi Adesina, restated the Federal Government’s commitment to diversify the economy through agriculture.

The Minister , who was represented by Dr Dickson Okolo, Director of Tree Crops in the Ministry, said Nigeria is producing below its capacity. He said Nigeria has the capacity of producing about 400,000 tonnes, but it is currently producing less than 80,000 tonnes.Cote ‘d voire is the leading producer in Africa, with 380,000 tonnes per annum According to him, the major challenge is the processing of the products. About 15 per cent of the product are being process, while

the rest is wasted.

He noted that the cashew being produce in Kogi alone can earn the country lots of foreign exhange.

He said that investors should harness the potential to boost income and employment generation.

Minister of Science and Technology , Prof Ita Ewa, lamented the high cost of the equipment used in processing cashew. He stressed the need for investors to invest heavily in it.

The minister, who was represented by a Director, Mr Yahaya Mohammed, said cashew business can create more than 200,000 new jobs for the African youths, most especilly the rural people. He said it is one of the best ways of meeting the Federal Government’s plans on job creation.

THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2011

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EDITORIAL/OPINION Comments

EDITORIAL FROM OTHER LAND

The ICPC faux pas • The unceremonious abortion of the appointment of Francis Elechi as ICPC chairman-elect taints the Presidency

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T was a presidential faux pas of a laughable kind. How a presidential appointment of such importance and magnitude could be mired by ineptitude and sloppiness is the question many are asking. The scene was at the Aso Rock Presidential Villa where members of the board of the Independent Corrupt Practices and other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), were to be inaugurated last week.

The proposed chairman, Mr. Francis Ugochukwu Elechi naturally, must have turned up with members of his family, friends and well-wishers. As government appointees are wont in this part of the world, he must have set up a token reception fiesta in one corner of the town with troupes working themselves up to reach the desired crescendo for ushering in the appointee when he finally returns with the prize.

‘Mr. Ugochukwu Elechi naturally, must have turned up with members of his family, friends and wellwishers. As government appointees are wont in this part of the world, he must have set up a token reception fiesta in one corner of the town with troupes working themselves up to reach the desired crescendo for ushering in the appointee when he finally returns with the prize. But would-be chairman, Elechi, must have got the shock of his life as his appointment was aborted in the middle of the ceremony ...’

But would-be chairman, Elechi, must have got the shock of his life as his appointment was aborted in the middle of the ceremony when the president had declared that there was need to resolve some “disturbing “ issues bordering on nomination and clearance of Elechi, especially since the position was very important to the administration’s quest to fight corruption. With this statement by the president, Elechi was immediately stood down and an acting chairman was named.

These unsavoury ‘shows’ coming from the highest office in the land get disturbing because they are happening too many times and, secondly, they are troublingly becoming a signpost of the Jonathan Presidency. Take for instance, the National Honours Award ceremony: for two consecutive years, award medals were said to have run out mid-ceremony, a telltale sign of lack of thoroughness in planning and preparation for a presidential event.

This last instance of shoddy planning and mix-up is grave for the reason that the headship of the ICPC is one of the most sensitive in the land. It is expected that the most upright and the most untainted among Nigerians are shortlisted for such a job; while such a list normally goes through the most thorough kind of checks and screening.

It is only after all these processes have been carefully exhausted that nominees are announced to the public and ceremonial inauguration enacted.

If we neglect the odium of this action on the Presidency, could not the president’s handlers have minded the damaging psychological effect this embarrassing act would have on the

nominee and members of his immediate family? What grievous damage would have come upon the commission if Elechi had been sworn in and dropped a few months down the line, when investigations become conclusive and he is found to be truly ineligible for the job? This way he would have been quietly withdrawn thereby saving the face of the Presidency. And should the man be found to be not culpable, the better for all concerned. It is unlikely that the man nominated himself for the job, so to have humiliated him in such a manner under public glare was most unnecessary.

We must also note that the Elechi miasma is yet another worrisome signal in the fight against corruption in the country. Recently the chairman of the other graft body, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) was removed in a most suspicious and discourteous manner that seemed in itself, corrupt. Corruption is adjudged by most as perhaps the most crippling ailment afflicting the polity today. It is said that between $5 billion and $10 billion is pilfered from Nigeria’s treasury annually. This is huge considering the state of the economy.

Even ardent supporters of President Goodluck Jonathan will admit that so far, he has neither shown the will nor capacity to fight this scourge.

On this note we suggest that the president starts the fight by appointing the right people to head the various antigraft agencies. We recommend people with stature and character; people who have names to protect are usually preferred. Heading an anti-corruption agency is not a job for the boys; it is almost like a sacred duty.

Unhealthy courts • The environment for justice should not be defined by law alone

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DILAPIDATED courtroom is a mockery of the justice system.

While courts represent the podium for justice, one operating in a dilapidated and filthy environment besmirches that integrity and can be likened to a physician peddling good health in unhygienic environment. With broken chairs and ceilings, defaced walls and disused private rooms, poor ventilation and overcrowded environment, many of our courts remain an embarrassment to our democracy.

This situation, we are afraid, affects the quality of justice from the courts.

In such environment, judges, lawyers, court officials, litigants, journalists and the public who have legitimate business in courts suffer great inconveniences as they discharge their responsibilities.

Indeed, a poor working condition afflicts many judges with poor health, and that combined with poor infrastructure like writing in long hands, cause delays and further erode the integrity of our judicial system. The result is that cases last for years in courts and foreign and local businesses suffer in turn.

According to reports, many of the courtrooms are still the same old courts built during the colonial era, barely enough to take a handful of people seated; and with very poor ventilation, not to talk of air conditioners. While a state like Lagos has substantially modernised the high courts and is working assiduously at the magistrate courts, many others have

neglected to position their judiciary for the 21 st century. States like Delta, Plateau, Abia and Oyo are in this league, according to The Guardian report of November 28, 2011.

According to the report, there is the possibility of inheriting a bedbug upon a visit to some of the courts in Plateau State.

Also, the High Court in Oyo State built about 26 years ago has suffered serious dilapidation because of neglect by previous governments, and once the weather gets hot, the judges are forced to adjourn since the central cooling system had failed. In Delta State which has received billions of petro- dollars, a new court house under development has been abandoned. Also in Abia State, the court suffers from dilapidation, and the result is that in some courts, once it rains, the court will be forced to adjourn.

Surprisingly, it is the same at the federal high courts. It was reported that a Federal High Court sitting in Lagos, had to adjourn the suit challenging the process of nominating Senior Advocates of Nigeria, because the court was overcrowded and very inconveniencing to members of the bar and bench, not to talk of the litigants and other stakeholders. To make matters worse, our judiciary still practices long writing, when across the world modern courts are equipped to record cases electronically; while the operators are cocooned in a very conducive environment to ensure optimum performance by the judges and

other court officials.

We are of the strong opinion that both the federal and state legislatures and executives must show willingness to give the judiciary its due as envisioned by the constitution. The National Assembly must respect section 81(3) of the 1999 constitution making the entitlement of the judiciary a first line charge; instead of forcing the administrative judges to go to the executive cap-in-hand in other to receive their budgetary allocations. Let us also remind them that it will be futile for the country to expect a virile judiciary when the work environment is very unhealthy.

‘With broken chairs and ceilings, defaced walls and disused private rooms, poor ventilation and overcrowded environment, many of our courts remain an embarrassment to our democracy.

This situation, we are afraid, affects the quality of justice from the courts. In such environment, judges, lawyers, court officials, litigants, journalists and the public who have legitimate business in courts suffer great inconveniences as they discharge their responsibilities’

A broken, dangerous system

A

FTER reports of chronic abuses — of detainees beaten and sometimes left to die of untreated injuries and illness — the Obama administration in 2009 vowed an overhaul of the nation’s immigration detention system, the sprawling patchwork of prisons and prison-like institutions that confines nearly 400,000 people a year as they await deportation or asylum.

“The paradigm was wrong,” Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano said then, acknowledging that detention centers operated too much like correctional institutions and that the majority of detainees are not being held as criminals and pose no threat. She promised to make the system less penal, with greater freedom and dignity for those in it.

Despite that vow, the last two years have seen only meager progress toward reform.

Detainees are not being punished for crimes, but according to a recent report by Human Rights First, half of them are still being held in jails, the same proportion as in 2009. And while Immigration and Customs Enforcement has begun to develop some less-restrictive facilities, those will house fewer than 15 percent of detainees.

The rest will remain in a world of prison uniforms and barbed wire. New standards to guide officials in making reforms have not yet been developed.

Many critics have also noted the woeful absence of legal protections and transparency in the system, which railroads detainees through overloaded immigration courts, often without representation.

A recent American Civil Liberties Union report, based on documents obtained through the Freedom of Information Act, uncovered almost 200 accusations of sexual abuse of immigrant detainees. The A.C.L.U. has urged the Department of Justice to abandon a proposed rule that would exempt immigration detention centers from the Prison Rape Elimination Act, a federal law that sets standards for detecting and preventing sexual abuse of people in custody.

The federal government needs to make good on its promises to reform its detention centers and to make far greater use of alternatives for people who pose no danger. Detainees should have more access to the courts to challenge their detention, and rigid laws that demand automatic or mandatory detention should be revised.

The paradigm is wrong. The system is dangerously broken.

– New York Times

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THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2011

20

EDITORIAL/OPINION

S

IR: Contrary to the Federal Government’s insinuations over the alleged politicisation of some government’s policy decisions in certain quarters, the continued strike embarked upon by Nigeria’s Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), beginning from Monday, December 5, arguably, couldn’t have been politicised, but rather carefully-avoided if the Government had heeded the previous warning strike and been faithful to the former in the implementation of the FG/ASUU Agreement, reportedly endorsed in 2009.

The union of academics had forewarned the government of an indefinite industrial action should it fail to satisfy its specified demands.

The lecturers’ demands include improved funding of the university system to produce world-class graduates that can drive today’s knowledge-based economy, improved conditions of service, and

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FG should dialogue with ASUU extension of existing 65 years’ retirement age of senior academics, especially the professors, to 70 years among others.

Without adequate attention, in terms of funding, it is doubtful that the country will be able to implement successfully any hypothetical Transformation Agenda, let alone becoming one of the 20 top economies in the world by year 2020. Education as a fundamental instrument for socio-economic transformation has been described as a process of acculturating the young members

of humanity to understand the values and ideals of and become competent members who could make meaningful contributions to the development of their immediate vicinity.

Incidentally, among other multifarious reasons being adduced for the depressing performance of the education industry in Nigeria over time are lack of needed teaching, research and learning facilities, shortage of skilled teachers for the teaching subjects and courses of study, frequent strikes largely in-

stigated by unpaid staff salaries and allowances, official corruption, negative social influences, collapsed value system, exam malpractices, and unsatisfactory conditions of service.

With these observed constraints, the capability of the industry to churn out well-grounded graduates with new aptitudes, innovative thinking, first-class communication, problem-solving skills, teamwork and Information and Communication Technology (ICT) skills to assist the country in occupying the

NNPC: lurking between petroleum supply and subversion

S

IR: The NNPC has always been in the news- in the bad news. If it is not about their unpublished account, it is the speculation that they are broke. Or as most recently, they told the world a recruitment exercise was conducted yet Nigerian graduates of top class grades were unemployable! These are the same poor applicants who were left in the scorching tropical sun by NNPC recruitment officials between 8 am and 6pm, when the test actually started.

One wonders where those currently working in the agency trained and how successful it was the recruitment exercise that brought them in.

What more befits an organisation which spends 700% more than its annual budget in a poverty-plagued country, in short supply of the same petroleum products it supplies?

It is commendable that the National Assembly (NASS) has called attention to the depth and stench of waste in the NNPC. However, the quest for transparency in governance and business regulation does not end with a toothless probe. The Senate President has pointed an accusing finger to a possible cartel in the sector.

Our expectation is that they be fished out and nailed mercilessly because they are callous and greedy.

There is also need to extend the probe to all Head(s) of Ministries, Departments and Agencies, within the sector, who may have useful information on the botched oil funding. Remember, it is a complex criminal network.

Nigeria’s developmental indices

are dismally poor and still plummeting. We run an economy with the shaky foundation of crude oil sale, not even production. We falter in the face of global economy today without oil revenue, unless we swiftly diversify our local economic base. It is pitiable that Nigerians out of fear rooted in past governance treachery and failures cannot trust the government of the day. This fact underscores the million dollar question about the controversial subsidy removal and socio-economic safety nets for the impending mass suffering: if public funds in the past have never been put to judicious use, how can they guaranty the efficient and transparent use of the gains of subsidy removal in terms of massive infrastructural and human capital development?

Channelling public investment into agriculture is paramount as Nigeria,

by current international transactions, only serves to develop other economies through mass importation of food to the tune of over US$6billion annually from Asia, Europe and America.

Well, agricultural modernisation is a long term programme which entails massive infrastructural development, farm mechanisation, value addition through agro-product processing, rural-urban integration, organised marketing agencies, efficient credit system and sustainable financing, human resource capacity building and environmental control. Honestly, all these are missing or malfunctioning in our system at present.

These cannot be bundled in place within four years. Action is paramount now, not mere policy paper.

So let’s start now!

Since the pathological challenge to

Nigeria’s public policy and development is corruption-stunted economic diversification, evident in poor project implementation and monitoring or in some cases non-implementation and subversion, it will be a historical achievement to probe public institutions, expose, disband and punish shady cartels. Government must change the way it does business.

Institutional cleansing will reveal deep-seated systemic rot, track public financial leakages and eliminate unnecessary and expensive links in administrative chains. Once this is done service delivery will be facilitated and transparent. Only then can the government regain its lost confidence and legitimacy from the Nigerian public.

• Otioma Chuks Benin City

front seat in the international system, has been hampered disastrously, due to poor attention by the concerned authorities.

Invariably, the adverse effects of defective teaching, learning and research skills being acquired by many products of the nation’s struggling educational institutions these days are quite glaring to all to see in virtually all the sectors of the economy.

Just as many Nigerians and their friends abroad are sometimes cynical of the country’s seriousness in accomplishing any discernible transformation, whether MDGs or Vision 20: 2020, with the government’s having the bulk of the nation’s resources to deploy for the good of all, it is time to acknowledge the significance of knowledgebased economy as a sine qua non in the fuller recognition of the role of knowledge and technologies in attaining new socio-economic growth and heights in today’s world.

For the umpteenth time, sound knowledge, not oil and gas deposits and wealth, is now recognised as “the prime driver of productivity and economic growth”. Having explored, exploited and allegedly mismanaged same huge oil and gas wealth, in the region of hundreds of billions of Dollars in the past 52 years with little or nothing to show for it, it is becoming clearer by the day to millions of Nigerians, that oil wealth may not enable the country to attain fresh socio-economic development frontiers after all.

Expecting a miracle of transformation, without a robust knowledgebased economy, engineered by a strong, functional educational system is tantamount to living in a fool’s paradise. Nigerian education system requires and deserves the needed attention now.

• Gbenga Kayode Wordkraft Communications Limited, Lagos.

Re: who is afraid of gay rights?

S

IR: The article by one, Pius Oyeniran Abioye Ph.D, is amusing and didactically misleading. Amusing in the sense that someone of his assumed commonsense could make such irresponsible argument and be comfortable with it. It is didactically misleading because his ratio of decision does not add up at all. He talked of natural law as the basis for reason why homosexuals should be allowed to practise their abnormality. His thought is that since this can be seen in the animal, then it is natural. In another word, whatever happened in na-

ture is natural. What the writer has forgotten is that animals engage in homosexuality where there is no opposite sex around. Further more, he should have known that no animal has ever been able to complete the act because the other animal receiving the sexual harassment never allow it. I have dogs that do this and I have never seen them complete the act.

Our friend should go to ram sellers stall during the Eid fitr he would see this sexual harassment and notice two things. One, he would see that that there is no sheep among the ram and secondly

the act is never completed. Even assuming that the act was completed, do we have to equate ourselves with animals?

We should realise that by nature of the emission of the substance from male to female (now we talking natural law) it is natural to say sex must be between a male and female even if you do not want to have children.

The writer should not have brought in God especially the Christian God. He said in John chapter 21 vs 25 the Bible said the whole Bible cannot contain all the mystery of God. I would say our

doctor is quoting the Bible like his father, Satan. Because what the verse says is that the Bible could not contain what Jesus did during His ministry and not as to creation.

He also said we have diverse of things. But the fact that things are diverse does not make them permissible. Or if because we must have diversity, does it mean that those who commit crimes should be allowed to do so without any consequence? I think somebody is just funny and mischievous.

• Taiwo Onafowokan, Challenge Ibadan

THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2011

21

EDITORIAL/OPINION

Philosophical foundations of globalisation – 2

T

O suggest that progress can only be measured by the elimination of global conflict and competition between rival ideologies is a bit overdrawn. But there is no doubt that the global economy is so intertwined that when one sneezes in New York, the world catches cold. Of course not everybody wins in the globalised world. The Chinese and Asians generally have benefitted more than other parts of the world. In fact, China is now the workshop of the world producing goods of different types and in the process posing serious challenge to other economies especially the previously dominant western economies.

Free trade and globalisation have been good for the Asians particularly the Chinese, South East Asians and to a lesser extent Indians. What is perhaps responsible for this in the case of China is the hard work characteristic of their peoples embrace of Confucian ethic. The cheap labour and less rigorous enforcement of environmental best practice in Asia generally make them more competitive.

Added to this is their huge population of close to two-thirds of the global population. The ‘Asian miracle’ could not have happened without the ease with which Asian goods find their ways to the global market under the rubric of Adam Smithian free market and global capitalism.

The world has never been so closely interlinked and interdependent as it is nowadays and indeed in the words of McLuhan the world indeed has become a global village. Yet the world still faces cyclical challenge of boom and burst, prosperity and recession which make thinkers feel that there is

‘There is no doubt that western popular culture has had serious deleterious effect on African mores and traditions. The youth of Africa unfortunately finds it hip to ape western culture to the neglect of what is good in African culture’

U

NTIL now, the North had maintained sturdy silence on the activities of the dreaded Islamic sect, Boko Haram, in the eastern flank of the region. At the last count, the group is believed to have killed no fewer than 1000 people. The number of those wounded is far higher, yet despite this havoc, which has not even subsided, northern leaders kept quiet.

Some, who chose to talk, spoke from both sides of the mouth.

They said nothing meaningful that could help redress the situation.

Was the silence deliberate? Is it that the North is in support of what the group is doing? These were some of the questions being asked as Boko Haram became a terrible menace which appeared unstoppable. The security agencies were caught flatfooted any time the group struck.

To show that it was on top of its act, the group hit the Mogadishu Barracks and the Force Headquarters in Abuja. Even at that, it did not dawn on the security organs that Boko Haram means business.

Rather they continued to give lame excuses on why they could not stop the group. At a time, we were told that they never expected such a group to rise and become a threat to national security. It was an admission of failure on their part, but the leaders of the security agencies were still allowed to keep their jobs. In

something inherently wrong with capitalism.

America, the home of pristine capitalism is in serious decline, perhaps because of the over-stretch of its being the global gendarme and over consumption and conspicuous lifestyle of its people.

Whatever may be the cause, America is in economic decline and ironic ally China that practices to an extent a mixed economy of commandist or dirigiste system mixed with individual enterprise seems primed to overtake the United States and to surpass it.

Amartya Sen 1998 Economics Nobel Laureate, in his book Identity and Violence: The Illusion of Destiny and in his other writings made a reference to the fact that enduring development can only take place within a free democratic environment. If China is to continue to grow, then it must embrace democracy. The question then of what type of democracy would arise. If India can practice democracy the Chinese should be able to do the same. This is assuming that the one family dominated democracy of India is the real thing.

The Whig approach to history which is embedded in the liberal idea of globalisation that human progress is almost inevitable does not quite capture all the problems that technological progresses have brought especially the damage to the environment.

Environment degradation occasioning climate change is a side effect of globalisation. So also is the disappearance of some languages and cultural lifestyles of some people who now embrace a global language and popular culture to the neglect of their own in a mad rush to belong and to “be with it”. This aspect of globalisation is not the thrust of this short paper but it is something that needs to be kept in mind.

Globalisation on the whole is something positive.

There is no doubt that the world has witnessed increasing prosperity and democracy and respect for fundamental human rights and gender equality in societies where these rights were alien to. Of course there are problems of inequality of market access and also unfair competition thus leading to rising tide of economic protectionism in many parts of the

world and even in free trading nations in the West that bear the burden of Chinese competition which they sometimes say is unfair because of Chinese currency manipulation and the other advanJide tages enjoyed by Osuntokun Chinese producers employing cheap labour and paying little regard to environmental concerns. There is however no alternative to globalisation and a world of economic nationalism engendering military aggression is no one’s interest.

The volume of Africa’s contribution to global trade ranges between 2% and 4 % and this has even been adversely affected by globalisation. Africa is a major victim of globalisation in many respects particularly culturally and economically. There is no doubt that western popular culture has had serious deleterious effect on African mores and traditions. The youth of Africa unfortunately finds it hip to ape western culture to the neglect of what is good in African culture.

‘The world has never been so closely interlinked and interdependent as it is nowadays and indeed in the words of McLuhan the world indeed has become a global village.

Yet the world still faces cyclical challenge of boom and burst, prosperity and recession which make thinkers feel that there is something inherently wrong with capitalism’

Soul-searching by the North other societies, such a security chief would not have lasted 24 hours on his seat after making that ridiculous statement.

With the apparent failure of security all eyes were on northern leaders to redeem the situation. There was nothing from that end. Even northerners in power and they are many also chose to play the dump. Instead of condemning the group for its murderous acts, they spoke guardedly, perhaps, out of fear to avoid incurring the wrath of Boko Haram. The group has been able to strike fear in people because of its seeming enormous reach to get at those it perceives as its enemy. So, many are cautious in speaking about the group.

Boko Haram has used the instrument of fear to silence many otherwise bold people who could have lashed out at it for its dastardly acts. Regretfully, we have all become tongue-tied for fear of our lives. Nobody wants to die in the hands of Boko Haram even when we know that whether we speak out against the group or not, when the time comes we shall all die. To many, the fear of Boko Haram, is the guarantee of their safety. What a misconception!

Fear or no fear, the North finally broke its silence, so its

‘Nobody wants to die in the hands of Boko Haram even when we know that whether we speak out against the group or not, when the time comes we shall all die. To many, the fear of Boko Haram, is the guarantee of their safety. What a misconception!’

seems, on Boko Haram on Monday in Kaduna at the Northern Peace Conference. Speakers, with the benefit of hindsight, noted the activities of the group, which has now given the region a bad name. In attendance were the leading lights of the North in politics, academia, military, commerce, and the monarchy.

They spoke frankly and from the heart too. Its prominent political sons led by Vice President Namadi Sambo came out of their cocoons to address the issue of national security.

Senate President David Mark opened the barrage of attacks on Boko Haram, saying: ''Will we be able to condemn current degree of insecurity in the North occasioned and heightened by Boko Hram? Are we afraid to openly condemn Boko Haram either for political reasons or out of fear of possible attack by the sect? How can we keep quiet when a group begins to propagate the ideology that western education is haram?...Have we forgotten that evil thrives when good men are silent? A northerner killing a northerner; a northerner maiming a northerner; a northerner disrupting the business activities of a northerner. ''A northerner destroying properties in the North and so on and so forth cannot be helping the North by any stretch of imagination. Can this help northern cause? When is the North truly north? Is it when the interest of a few vocal group is met? Is it when the interest of a select religious group is met? Is it when a section of the North is satisfied? Or is it when the com-

mon good of the North is addressed?''

Former Head of State Gen Yakubu Gowon, while condemning the rising crime wave, urged northern leaders to rise against the phenomenon. ''Doing that will go a long way to prove that there is no conspiracy of silence among the leadership of the northern states on the issue of peace and security in Nigeria'', Gowon said, adding: ''We have over the years through our action or inaction, directly or indirectly, allowed the gradual descent to present disagreeable and unacceptable behaviours in our communities and the entire North. Wa now must show seriousness, courage, and responsibility in addressing these challenges squarely without fear, favour or mudslinging''.

For the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa'ad Abubakar, we must take retrospective look at ourselves so as to know where we missed it. ''We know there are problems; let's not deceive ourselves. How did we get into these problems? What really happened? Were we lagging some 15, 20 years ago? Why do we have crisis everywhere?

Muslims killing Muslims; Muslims killing Christians; Christians killing Christians. ''Our founding fathers did not do that, so where have we derailed? We must come back to the path of our founding fathers if we want to make any progress.

We must bring education to the front burner. The state governors must set up education fund that will make children go to school at no cost. I believe they

Lawal Ogienagbon

lawal.ogienagbon@thenationonlineng.net

have the wherewithal to do that.

Many people are tired of what is happening and want to see peace reign in Nigeria.''

Well, it is a good thing that the North or better still some of its leaders have deemed it fit to talk on the Boko Haram menace.

Even though Gowon and the Sultan did not address it frontally, they did peripherally by talking generally on the security situation. No matter what, they cannot pretend that Boko Haram is the major cause of the insecurity in the North and some parts of the country today. On his part, David Mark should be commended for calling a spade a spade. Boko Haram has given the North a bad name which the region as a whole should rise to reject.

There should be no standing on the fence over this matter. It is either the region's leaders condemn the group or risk being condemned for supporting evil when they should have spoken against it. The choice is theirs to make.

SMS ONLY: 08056504763

THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2011

22

EDITORIAL/OPINION

T

HE Nigerian oil sector has always been a conduit for patronage. Allocation of oil blocks and appointment as fuel importer/marketers are seen as spoil of office freely deployed by successive Nigerian governments. But as in character with PDP and its greedy politicians, the sector has in the last 12 years been reduced to an avenue for unbridled and mindless looting of the nation’s resources and the resultant impoverishment of Nigerians. In 1999, President Obasanjo decided to personally supervise the oil sector instead of appointing a minister, ostensibly to prevent corruption. The result was the near collapse of the four refineries and increased dependency on importation of fuel for domestic consumption.

Obasanjo saddled the function of importing fuel to meet domestic needs to three major oil firms.

At the end of Obasanjo’s eight years, a leader who often boasted of having built two refineries in about three years and laying foundation for two others before he left government in 1979, it was not just that he could not build additional refinery in eight years, the real tragedy was that even the existing four were in a state of disrepair in spite of millions of naira spent on Turn Around Maintenance (TAM) contracts won by PDP stalwarts.

As a result of Yar’Adua failing health, the PDP greedy buccaneers had a field day. Licenses for fuel importation were freely shared among their members and sympathizers. Under Jonathan’s husbandry, the number of approved fuel importers/marketers jumped to about a hundred. They even managed to smuggle into their list some construction firms.

If any attention was paid to our refineries at all, such was designed to satisfy the greed of PDP members. Those at the helm of affairs are not sure whether the refineries are operating at 60% or less. Austen Oniwon, the NNPC boss could not tell senators “the average capacity utilization of the refineries” per day or the amount of PMS the refineries produced in October or the projection for November and December. The figures of N1.346 trillion presented by the Executive Secretary of the Petroleum Products Pricing Regulatory Agency (PPPRA) Mr. Reginald Elijah Stanley differ from Senator Magnus Abe’s

P

ERHAPS what sets apart the recent diatribe by the Edo State Chairman of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Dan Orbih, was the refreshing admission that so much is being accomplished by the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) government led

by Comrade Adams Oshiomhole.

Laced with the usual bile and his peculiar attempt at mischief, Orbih’s tale of the marines, ‘full of sound and fury’, sought vainly to take the sail out of the brilliant rendition of the administration’s three year score card which took place recently in Benin City.

For instance he tried to dismiss the showpiece 57 kilometre Evboeghae-UgoUrhonigbe road, with a bridge at Urhomehe, which covers 200 communities, as a mere six kilometre road. He equally derided the cross section of Edo people who attended the Town Hall meeting as “a section of his Action Congress and unsuspecting public”.

Almost sounding like a broken record, Orbih’s often repeated wild goose allegation that Edo under Oshiomhole got N2.7 billion from the Ecological Fund fell flat when it was revealed that the state has not received one naira from the said fund. Perhaps wise counsel will prevail that seeking to govern Edo is not about galvanising some band to cry fire in a market place.

Unlike his usual refrain that the Oshiomhole administration was only locked in “planting flowers”, Orbih may have been suddenly gripped by the reality to do away with his sterile predilection for the Hitlerite model, largely popularised by Dr Joseph Goebbels, minister of propaganda in the Nazi government led by Adolf Hitler, to concede to the flurry of motion and movements in different parts of the state.

While he kept seeing flowers, the people were seeing the changing faces of their roads, schools, hospitals, and the provision of water and rural electrification. Realism may have dawned that in an age now goaded by the social and popular media, rather than win sympathisers, this Orbih’s Goebbelsian model not only became the party’s albatross but sounded its imminent requiem. He simply

Fuel mafia as metaphor for failed politics figures of N1.426 trillion.

Rules were routinely jettisoned. Prospective marketers for instance were required to own tank farms, (petrol depots) of not less than 5000 metric tons. With only 11 marketers out of about a hundred owning storage facilities, the rest share depots with filling stations’.

There were allegations of round tripping – a situation, where importers return the locally produced product at the cost of imported.

Instead of addressing all the fundamental problems that have turned the Nigerian oil sector to a hunting field by gluttonous sharks, the president thought removing the fuel subsidy is the first priority in order to rein in those he had fingered as the major beneficiary of the fuel subsidy. On his part .the Senate President mandated the investigative panel looking into the issue of fuel subsidy to unmask the mafia.

Finally, Chairman, Senate Ad-hoc Committee probing the management of fuel subsidy regime in the country, Senator Abe, reeled out names of some one hundred companies purportedly benefiting from the fuel subsidy .We have been told this is the cabal milking the nation of trillions of naira from subsidy on petroleum products.

The cabal is alleged to have shared among themselves N3.655 trillion in the last five years and N1.426 trillion in the first eight months of 2011 alone.

The list contains names of those we have been told control the economy of the nation. And as it has turned out, many on the list are well known financiers, supporters and sympathizers of PDP. At what point did these celebrated Nigerian employers of labour become enemies of the state? Are these not the same men that receive the highest national honours year in year out from government for their contributions to the growth of the economy?

At what point did the government discover the owners of Oando oil, Honeywell oil, Conoil, MRS Integrated Oil and Gas as well as Dosil oil and PMAN Investment Ltd constitute themselves into ‘oil industry mafia?

Many more questions remain unanswered. Was it when they made generous donations to PDP cause or when they were receiving the highest national honors the nation reserved for the best in their midst?

Was it when they were being consulted

by PDP government on the nation’s economic problems? How did these illustrious Nigerians become monopolists?

Undoubtedly, PDP and the president are running a government of deceit. It will be recalled that it was the PDP government under Chief Obasanjo that removed the so called subsidy on kerosene. It was a PDP administration under Yar’Adua and Jonathan that purportedly reinstated it.

When the oil marketers ignored directive of government, it was PDP administration

Dan Orbih’s wild goose chase

By Tony Iyare found out that his infamous sermon that Oshiomhole was doing nothing, could not hold as projects dotted everywhere.

It created a wide gulf between the PDP and the Edo people. It was only a question of time for Orbih to preside over the party’s final ruination. I thought he should have been remorseful by first apologising to Edo people for seeking to lead them by the nose.

His recent press statement titled The Choice We Make published in the Tribune and Vanguard of Tuesday, November 29, in which he deliberately went out to pull wool on the faces of Edo people made interesting claims.

Haunted by the 10 years of poor delivery by the PDP government, Orbih opted to throw specks at Oshiomhole’s towering credentials just to even scores.

He was true to his reputation of always standing logic on its head. For a man who comes from Ogbona in Etsako Central, Orbih’s resolve to deny the existence of neighbouring towns like Ofukpo, Oghomere or Iraokhor which are located within earshots from his homestead, beats the imagination. Even indigenes of these communities must feel assaulted. But that would be in his character.

When asked on a recent programme on Bronz FM how he felt each time he traversed the newly reconstructed Akpakpava Road, his response was amusing. “Unfortunately Akpakpava is not one of those roads that I pass through”. For a man whose party secretariat is on Akpakpava Road, a major gateway to Abuja and his homestead in Edo North, it was clear Orbih was speaking from different sides of his mouth. What then really can come out from his Jerusalem? Can Edo people entrust their destiny to a man whose claims are fiddlesticks?

As a dutiful student of the sociology of statistics, he selectively reeled out what the Oshiomhole administration earned in three

years without a corresponding analysis of what the PDP government earned in 10 years at a time when the nation’s earnings from oil quadrupled because of the Iraqi War, with little to show for it.

Let no one nurse any illusion, Election 2012 in Edo will certainly be about performance.

What the PDP government failed to do in 10 years and what the ACN government has done in three years (and will do by the next seven months).

Orbih seems to be making a big fuss out of the sources of funding of the numerous school projects in Edo under Oshiomhole. He went on to say 60 per cent of UBE funds for the renovation of primary and junior secondary schools are federal funds. So what?

Were these funds not available to the PDP government? Why was the PDP government which held sway for 10 years prostrate in delivering to the Edo people, in spite of this window? Why was the PDP government unable to pay UBEC counterpart fund for six years?

The more Orbih tried to explain away the impotence of the PDP government, the more I see a man struggling for a needle in a haystack. I think Edo people are simply tired of being fed with excuses, lies and a dinner of scorpions.

Has anyone made any bone about the sources of the states’ funding under Oshiomhole which is listed thus: Federal Allocation, Internally Generated Revenue, Loans, funds from Public Private Partnership (PPP) and International Development Partners like the World Bank, European Union etc?

As a deft manager, Oshiomhole must be given kudos for turning around the fortunes of the hitherto pauperised state by not only reversing the ratio between capital and recurrent expenditure which for many years

under Jonathan that feted them at Aso Villa seat of government. And when government’s half-hearted appeal was ignored once again, President Jonathan did not treat these powerful Nigerians as economic saboteurs. If anything, members were buffeted with more national honours.

It is obvious from the unfolding crisis of fuel subsidy that PDP government is a government that protects only the interest of its members. This is perhaps the reason why the various bodies government set up to supervise the sector appear to be answerable to no one. NNPC without shame admitted collecting subsidy on locally refined product. NNPC is more interested in making more money from imported products than to make the refineries work at full capacity through effective supervision.

This is a government that seems to have given up on generating regular supply of electricity after 12 years and an estimated expenditure of about N16 trillion . This is a government that cannot even build storage facilities for the imported products.

It is curious how those who have been celebrated as economic pillars of the Nigerian economy by PDP, worshipped and buffeted with national honours can now be regarded by the same government as economic saboteurs.

Our economic woes stem from the failure of our politics. Our economic salvation and the economic wellbeing of our people can therefore not be guaranteed through the evil conspiracy of PDP political elite and their counter parts, the statecreated economic elite. They are all parasites.

‘The result was the near collapse of the four refineries and increased dependency on importation of fuel for domestic consumption.

Obasanjo saddled the function of importing fuel to meet domestic needs to three major oil firms’ was heavily in favour of the latter, but investing largely in infrastructural renewal.

With over 60 road projects spread across the 18 local government areas, the administration has opened up many rural communities.

For a state where governance was in abeyance in close to 30 years, working on 550 kilometres of roads covering over 400 communities in just three years, is no mean feat.

In fact the entire state is a huge construction site.

This is in addition to the rebuilding of schools, the renovation of healthcare facilities and the provision of water and rural electrification. In virtually all areas of life from sports to transportation, the Oshiomhole admistration has made a significant difference. The government has re-ignited the dream of our forebears and Edo is working again.

It is amusing how a man who made fiddlesticks of the collective mandate of the people of Edo State is now mounting the rostrum asking for their lot. Why they do not seem impaired by their collective moral guilt is perturbing? In some climes, Osunbor and his hirelings will be gnashing their teeth behind bars for their sins. Why Edo people will be sufficiently persuaded to cast lot for these moral outlaws is something of an enigma.

Comparing Oshiomhole and Osunbor is like comparing light and darkness. Where are the roads built by Osunbor? Because they were not properly designed, virtually all of them were in shreds few months after they were built.

In constrast, Oshiomhole has left no one in doubt that his roads will be there for 30 to 40 years. Apart from being properly designed, the roads come with drains, stone base, asphalt overlay, thermoplastic markings and central median (for dualised roads). In built up areas, the roads also include walkways, street lights and traffic lights. It is therefore very simplistic to seek to compare one contract and another without properly understanding the details of the contract.

• Iyare is Special Adviser, Media Affairs to Edo State Governor.

THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2011

23

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2011

24

41

NATION SPORT WOMEN U-17 Rangers jets out to Lome for WAFU Cup Nigeriacheating—Esezobor

E

NUGU Rangers left Lagos on Wednesday morning to Cotonou, Benin Republic enroute to Lome, Togo to keep date with the Wafu Cup Club competition which starts on December 08 and lasts through the 12th .

The team which stormed Lagos on Tuesday night from their Enugu base could not leave for the venue of the four-team tournament on Monday as early scheduled due to some logistic hitches.

Head coach of the Coal City side, Alphonsus Dike told SuperSport.com that they have put in decent preparation and now bank on mother luck to see them lift the sub-regional club's trophy.

"We have done our best, we only pray for good luck.

"The players are battle ready and want to end the year on a good note by winning the Wafu trophy.

"We know it will be tough over there with every other teams seeing the Nigerians as a team to beat.

"We have come a long way and will stop at nothing towards winning the trophy."

On whether the tedious road trip will not lower the form of his wards, the former Golden Eaglets coach said they have resolved not to give excuses but to excel at the competition.

"December 08 is the arrival date, the competition is most likely to start on the 9th. The draw for the event is yet to be done.

"I think they will get over the inconveniences of the road travel before their first game.

"Although it would have been nice to have left a bit earlier but we don't want to rest on that, we want to make the best out of the worst situation.

"We won't be happy to give excuses, we are going there to win," he said.

Bukola Babes now ABS FC

N

PL side Bukola Babes are to be renamed ABS FC after they were bought by former Kwara State Governor Bukola Saraki for 250 million Naira.

MTNFootball.com exclusively gathered that ABS FC (which stand for the initials for Abubakar Bukola Saraki) will now be run under a new management that will include two expatriates from the new owner’s company.

“The club are only waiting for the new papers to come through before they will make the big announcement,” MTNFootball.com was informed.

The Ilorin-based club were previously owned by a businessman and admirer of the former governor, who is now a senator.

The team got off to a storming start in their debut in the Nigerian top flight this past season before they finished 12th on the table with 51 points from 38 matches.

They face a Herculean task in the

new season as they are set to lose several of their star performers including Promise James, Abdulrahman Bashir, Ali Gwandu Abubakar Yusuf and Seun Sogbesan.

Adigun goes to Albania

F

ORMER Nigeria U-17 defender Adebayo Adigun has signed a three-year contract with Albanian club FK Bylis Ballsh.

Adigun, who previously featured in Japan, was signed along with another Nigerian youngster Ibrahim Mohammed, who was sourced from an academy in Nigeria.

Adigun joined J-League side Kashiwa Reysol in 2009 on a three-year contract but he failed to tie down a first-team place at the club.

Central defender Adigun, son of former Leventis United star Bunmi Adigun, will therefore join up with one-time Eagles’ goalkeeper Ndubuisi Egbo at the Albanian club.

Egbo is now 38 years old and has been in Albania for the past nine years.

"Most of them have played for the same team two or three times in the past.

"The coaches are the ones that encourage them to alter their ages.

"Majority of the present squad are over-aged. It does not give opportunity for new ones to come in" The proprietor of Makbet Queens who admitted that Nigeria have abundant talents in the under-aged cadre, advised coach Dedevbo to seek help from his colleagues in the field.

"Coach Dedevbo should go out and get genuine Under-17 players, they are everywhere and abundant.

"If he needs help he can call on us to help him out, we train these players, we know them one on one and will give him good players within the age bracket.

"Re-cycling of players will not advance the growth of the game one bit, it will kill the game," he said.

N

IGERIA’S head coach, Stephen Keshi believes that the recent form of Yakubu Aiyegbeni for Blackburn Rovers will "help in building his confidence."

Keshi, 49, told SuperSport.com that Aiyegbeni's performance against Swansea last Saturday shows that the striker is back to his form of scoring goals.

The Super Eagles' coach added that after "a bad period" in Aiyegbeni's career following a poor outing at the 2010 FIFA World Cup, his present form should serve as a relief to the forward.

"First I will say I'm happy for Yakubu because he has always shown that he is a good striker. And to score four goals in a match is a

performance that does not happen always for a striker or any player.

"But this current form of Yakubu is very good for him and will help in building his confidence for other games. He has had a bad period in his career lately especially after the poor performance of our team at

• Saraki

By David Onyeka

second phase at the National Stadium.

Seeing these kids perform really excites me and I hope my colleagues handling various clubs in Premier and amateur League will utilize this opportunity to recruit players for their respective teams. Already the response from our foreign partners through the CEO of Paddysco Sports Limited Peter Azunnaya Okereke has been encouraging as they are just waiting for the program to be rounded off between December 15 and 16 inside the mainbowl of the National Stadium.”

F

ORMER Nigeria skipper Nwankwo Kanu has said he is not sure ‘The Yak’ Yakubu Aiyegbeni has been forgiven by the country’s fans after the miss of the 2010 World Cup.

From Kolade Adeyemi, Kano HE elections into the office of the president of Youth Sports Federation of Nigeria (YSFON) is scheduled to hold on Saturday, 10th December, 2011 in Abuja.

The secretary of the electoral committee,Mr John Eli made the disclosure while speaking to news men on the state of preparedness of the body towards the conduct of the election.

According to Mr. Eli, only one candidate,Alhaji (Dr)Nasiru Yusuf Gawuna purchased the form from the electoral committee to vie for the office within the period stipulated in its time table for the election.

Eli explained that the chairmen and secretaries from the 36 states and the federal capital territory and members of the national executive committee are expected to participate as delegates.

He also hinted that arrangements for the successful conduct of the election which will improve YSFON's position in sports development in the country have been put in place.

T

C

He was fully in charge of the team when they barely escaped relegation again this past season.

Shooting Stars will now resume training for the new season under Adepoju Wednesday after the former general manager informed the players accordingly.

“I will be in charge of the team until the issue of a coach for the club is resolved,” Adepoju told the players at the club house Tuesday.

Adepoju, who coached the team two seasons ago when Philip Boamah was sacked, will be assisted by coach of the 3SC feeders team, Tunde Adebola aka Zico.

Former Enyimba coach Okey Emordi is one of several top coaches who have applied to take over ‘The Oluyole Warriors’.

Aiyegbeni missed an open goal in a must-win match against South Korea at last year’s World Cup in South Africa and has since not played for Nigeria.

“I’m still not sure the fans have forgiven him,” Kanu said in an interview with the UAE newspaper The National.

Kanu is now an ambassador for the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).

Samson Siasia announced during his time in charge of the Super Eagles that he would not want the wrath of Nigerian fans on him and so he would take his time before calling up Yakubu as well as another World Cup zero, Sani Kaita, who was sent off against Greece.

Kanu, who jointly holds the all-time record number of caps for Nigeria, maintained though that the striker who has been in superb scoring form for his English Premier League side Blackburn Rovers remains relevant in the current Eagles team.

“Nigeria need him and his goals for Blackburn show he is back in form,” argued Kanu.

New Eagles coach Stephen Keshi has maintained he will consider The Yak for his next call-ups.

“He’s a Nigerian and so he is eligible to represent his country. And as long as he is working hard and doing well at his club, I will invite him,” Keshi told MTNFootball.com “I will work with all Nigerian players who are doing well both at home and abroad.”

Yakubu made a very strong claim for a return to the Eagles after his four goals for Blackburn against Swansea in the EPL at the weekend.

That remarkable haul has brought the 29-year-old striker’s tally to 10 goals for Blackburn since his switch on transfer deadline day from Everton.

REAM TEAM V Chief Coach Austin Eguaveon has berated the Technical Committee of the NFF for not supporting him positively in the quest to qualify for the London 2011 Olympic Games.

The former international said the committee members left him to his fate when he most needed them. “If you would ask anyone what the work of the technical committee is, you would find out that it is not only in recruiting players and scrutinizing the coaches team list. They are supposed to be at match venues to watch our matches and make their technical input and observations known before hand, and after every match. But it was pathetic that during the competition in the Morocco, none of the committee members was there.

None of them came for the championship, and we were left to carry our cross by ourselves. It is not best, as that really created a big of vacuum for us. I bear no grudges against anyone, but I remain ever grateful to the Federation for giving me the opportunity to serve, and most especially, Nigerians for their support”.

It would be recalled the former hard

By Patrick Ngwaogu

tackling defender threw in the towel immediately the team the lost out in the eight-nation tournament in Morocco, where they could not advance beyond the preliminary stage. Losing two matches to Morocco and Senegal, before a face-saving win against Algeria in their last match.

• Eguavoen

PRESIDENT GOLF CUP CHAMPIONSHIP

Jonathan is special guest of honour P RESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan is expected to be the Special Guest of Honour at the 2011 President Golf Cup Championship teeing off at the IBB Golf and Country Club next week. Revealing this in Abuja, the Vice President of the Nigeria Golf Federation, Moses Ananuia said over N10 million cash would up for grab at the tournament. He said that the President cup is one of the major tournaments in the Nigeria Golf Federation calendar, and the highest ranked in the country “the professionals will be involved in this tournament and they would be playing the course in four days starting from Tuesday 13th of December 2011. We have over N10 million for them as prize money which is one of the highest money they would be taking away since the beginning of the year. After the pros, we would have the category 2 and category 3 players.

Naturally, the category 1 players will also tee off with the professional players.

The tournament as a whole is normally organized in honour of the President of the country, and it started in 1995, with

By Patrick Ngwaogu the first one holding in Port Harcourt and this is the first time that the tournament will be holding at the IBB Golf and Country Club.

He said that the aim of the tournament is to promote golf in the country, develop it and rank the country’s golf players. He said that ranking of Nigerian players have been affected in the past because of lack of major tournament “for a players to be ranked in the amateur cadre, he would need at least 36 holes tournament, and 72 holes tournament for a professional player”. He said that over N50 million would be expended in the tournament with GLOBACOM been the major sponsors. According to him, others Corporate bodies that have identified with the tournament are Chelsea Hotel, Sheraton Hotel, Emirate Hotel and Suite, Luxury Hotel, Ari Nigeria, Ogun state government, Benue State government, FCT and the Federal government.

B

RAD Guzan is braced for his first Premier League start this weekend – admitting facing Gabby Agbonlahor and Darren Bent has been perfect preparation.

Despite being at Villa for almost three-and-a-half years, Guzan has yet to be in the Claret and Blues first XI for a top-flight match.

His only Premier League experience ahead of Saturday’s trip to Bolton is substitute appearances in defeats to Liverpool and Manchester United over two years apart.

But, having understudied Brad Friedel for most of his Villa career, the American international is up for the challenge after a rare call to replace established current No.1 Shay Given.

Given is out for a month, meaning the Irish international will miss the demanding festive fixture schedule, after his injury was confirmed as a hamstring tear.

Guzan reckons trying to thwart Villa’s six-goal hotshots Bent and Agbonlahor in training at Bodymoor Heath every day is the best practice he can get.

“People will talk about me not having played much Premier League football,” said Guzan, whose place on the substitutes’ bench on Saturday is expected to be taken by veteran third choice keeper Andy Marshall.

“But there’s no better preparation than facing the likes of Benty and Gabby every day.

“To be able to train with these guys, these are world-class strikers. It’s tremendous for me and my development.

•Agbonlahor

Copa Lagos committed to Okpodu wants Falcons return developing Beach Soccer in Nigeria •Says he can build a new female team United Nations and Beach Soccer

K

3SC: Amoo rejects pay cut OACH Fatai Amoo has rejected a reduced offer by NPL side Shooting Stars and so in the interim club manager Mutiu Adepoju will handle the team.

Amoo, who was on 750,000 Naira a month at Shooting Stars, refused a pay cut after a meeting with Oyo State commissioner for sports Monday and so throwing open the post of 3SC coach.

“Unlike Mutiu who accepted, Amoo has turned down a new offer

by Shooting Stars which will see him take a massive pay cut,” a top club source informed MTNFootball.com.

The one-time Eagles assistant coach joined the Ibadan in the second round of the 2009/10 season and helped them beat the drop.

the World Cup last year in South Africa. But I'm happy he has picked up himself and is doing well now," the Super Eagles' head coach said.

Aiyegbeni has scored nine goals in nine appearances for Blackburn Rovers this term in the Barclays English Premier League.

Nigerians have not forgiven Yakubu—Kanu

YSFON election to hold on Saturday —Secretary

Kids display football skills in talent hunt T

HE much publicized Paddysco Football Challenge, a talent hunt program to scout for players under the age of 19 for top European and local clubs commenced at the famous Kirikiri Maximum Prison Sports Complex Monday with over 200 teenagers gathered to showcase their talents in the quest to make the final 25 cut that will be heading for Europe or NPL clubs already waiting to secure their services.

According to the head of the technical crew set up to fish out the most talented of the lot, coach Alaba Joseph Oke, the turn out was overwhelming for the first day of the one week screening event and he hopes that subsequently the number will increase especially for the second phase of the Talent Hunt scheduled for the mainbowl of the National Stadium Surulere, Lagos.

“The turn out is awesome and I am really impressed by the performance and attitude of the boys,” begins an elated coach Oke who spoke with newsmen at the screening ground. He continues, “I am glad that the players present are truly within the ages of 10-19 and they have really proven that the future of the game is in the hands of the youths. They have displayed gut, skill and desire to excel. Our invited guests are impressed with the performance of these boys in just the first day of the event. I know that we will see more from the boys as we progress and expect players to arrive.

“We expect more players by the time we end the first phase of this program which will produce the players meant to jostle for the team of 25 by the time we commence the

C

OACH of Makbet Queens, Godday Esezobor has picked a hole in the ages of the players in the national Under-17 women's team, the Flamingoes.

The coach Peter Dedevbo's tutored women side are currently undergoing screening and training in Abuja preparatory for the African qualifiers for next year's Fifa Under-17 Women's World Cup finals in Azerbaijan.

Esezobor told SuperSport.com that majority of the invited players have competed for the Under-17 team severally in the past.

"The coaches are merely re-cycling players and it is very bad.

"I don't want to mention names, I know the players very well.

Yakubu's form good for confidence—Keshi

NATION SPORT Eguavoen blasts NFF Agbonlahor provides • Says he didn't get positive support training ammunition D for Guzan

Yak vows to keep scoring for Blackburn BLACKBURN striker Yakubu believes he can keep on scoring the goals needed to help lift Rovers out of danger.

Nigerian striker Yakubu hit all four in the 4-2 win over Swansea at Ewood Park on Saturday, a victory that lifted the club off the bottom of the table.

“I always believe I can score goals no matter what league I play in,” said Yakubu. “There is a long way to go but I’ve done it wherever I’ve played.”

INETIC Sports have reaffirmed their commitment to the development of Beach Soccer in Nigeria. Kinetic Sports intend to use Copa Lagos 2011 as a vehicle to drive the development of Beach Soccer in Nigeria. The ultimate goal is to expose talent that is capable of making Nigeria World Champions.

One way in which they hope to achieve this is through the running of regular Beach Soccer Clinics. The Beach Soccer Clinics are designed to educate children about Beach Soccer and introduce them to the fun elements of the game, such as over head kicks and other acrobatic skills. They will be taught by professional coaches and players.

The state of the art stadium, which is owned by Kinetic Sports will be available throughout the coming years to host other Beach Soccer events and matches. It is hoped that this will help to gather interest in Beach Soccer.Copa Lagos itself is scheduled to run annually, the tournament is destined to grow bigger and increase from the present format to host more teams.

The support Copa Lagos has received from global organisations like The

World Wide will most definitely encourage private investment.

Already companies in Nigeria are displaying wisdom in exploring how they can support and benefit from Copa Lagos. Ultimately it is hoped that the private investment will resort in Beach Soccer leagues being set up throughout Nigeria.

F

ORMER Super Falcons coach, Sam Okpodu has indicated his interest to return to the fold of the women senior national team as head coach.

The United States of America based tactician said he intends to bring his wealth of experience to bear in rebuilding a solid female team for

Jajere confirms receiving of petitions member of the House of against Ekeji Representative Committee on

A

Sports Alkali Jajere has confirmed that they have received various petition against the Director General of the National Sports Commission Patrick Ekeji.

According to the member representing Yobe State, the petition are in the range of 90 and above, and cannot be wished away “this is not the issue of trying to witch hunt anybody, but it just a reality. We have over 90 petitions against the DG of National Sports Commission. The petitions are from well meaning Nigerians, and they come on daily basis that it has become a sort of worry to us. The dilemma we are facing now is that we don’t even

From Patrick Ngwaogu, Abuja know where to begin from. But the reality is that we must begin somewhere.

We must give him a fair hearing, by inviting him to defend some of the allegations before we can take any action”.

Asked on how soon that would be, the House member said it is going to be very soon, as the Speaker is very much on their neck to give him report on some of the petitions. And the Presidency is also aware of it.

It would be recalled that the House Committee on Sports Chairman D.

By Innocent Amomoh

Nigeria.

"The last team that went to Germany was not a bad team, but most of the players were inexperienced. If given a chance, i intend to blend the young and experience players to produce a strong female national team for the future.

"The problem most of the time is that we don't make conscious efforts to develop young players that will take over from the aging ones, and so when the older players are leaving the stage, they usually don't able replacements. That i intend to rectify," Okpodu said.

Okpodu also promised that if made the coach of Falcons, he will ensure that the younger players, who wants to go back to school are given provisional admission into Universities in the United States with his conection.

He however called on football fans in the country to keep faith with the various national teams, as he believes that Nigeria will return to winning ways soon.

25

THE NATION

EDUCATION

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2011

The number of students graduating with first class degrees used to be negligible. But not any longer! The University of Ibadan (UI) recently awarded 106 students first class degrees. Others churn out similar numbers.

Happening now when the standard of education is believed to have dropped, many are asking questions about the quality of these degrees.

JOKE KUJENYA reports

Website:- http://www.thenationonlineng.com

email:- education@thenationonlineng.com

•From left: Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), University Of Ibadan,Prof Afolabi Bamigboye with the Vice-Chancellor, Prof Adewole and the University Librarian, Dr Benedict Oladele during the university’s convocation.

Has first class degree become cheap?

I

N a few days, the Igbinedion University, Okada, Benin Edo State, will hold its ninth convocation. On that occasion, 21 of the graduating students will earn first class degrees.

In January, Miss Ifeoma Okoye, 24, and 118 others made first class when the University of Lagos (UNILAG) held its convocation.

Okoye, who studied Finance, emerged the best female graduating student for the 2010 academic session. She made a 4.90 Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA).

While at UNILAG, Okoye was also studying Accountancy at the Oxford Brookes University, United Kingdom (UK) where she also made a first class.

She said: “I am also a chartered accountant and a member of the Association of Certified Chartered Accountants (ACCA), UK. I got that in 2009 when I was in my 300 level.”

The population of first class graduates has risen, with the University of Ibadan (UI), University of Benin (UNIBEN) and the Covenant University (CU), Ota, Ogun State contributing a large number. The increasing number is becoming worrisome because of the reported widespread drop in standard of education.

UI, at its four-day graduation,

announced the award of first class degrees to 106 of the 3,241 graduands.

On November 27, 66 graduates were awarded first class degrees

by UINBEN. In all, there were 8,782 graduands, according to the Vice-Chancellor, Prof Osayuki Oshodin.

The CU, through its ViceChancellor, Prof Aize Obayan, announced the award of first class degrees to 89 of its 1,253 graduates.

A female first class graduate, who sits atop a high ranking government agency, said the award of first class has become gbanjo (free-for-all).

She said: “In our own time, it was tough. It doesn’t matter the child of whom you are; you have to earn it. In those days, it was the period when academic excellence strictly resonated around first class graduates. Then, we made concerted efforts to position ourselves among the next generation of great minds. Our intent was to return to our institutions so that we would be able to sustain the faculties of our respective schools.

“Then were the days when first class degrees were very rare. That was the time when it was not easy for hard-working students to make Second Class Upper Division (2:1). Those who got first

class really earned them. We were considered a rare breed. We excelled wherever we went. And before our final year, we were dubbed great image-makers for our respective schools. And wherever we went, we stood out with our contributions because our intelligence quotient (IQ) was no surprise. Today, I am really surprised that we have so many of them. I only hope they will be able to defend the brilliance when faced with intellectuallydemanding challenges in their various fields of endeavours.”

Ambassador Dapo Fafowora said he is alarmed at the high turnout of first class graduates.

Fafowora, who graduated from the University of Ibadan, said: “Are you saying that a Nigerian institution awarded over 100 first class degrees at once? Such first class awards must be substandard.

Even though I left university about 47 years ago, I still don’t believe that first class honours can come so cheap. In our time, there were only three or four deserving students who earned first class. I think two or three were in Chemistry and I remember the only lady called Omolara then, in Mathematics. She is now based in South Africa with her family.

“And where I went to further my studies in England, two of my

•Prof Obayan

•Prof Omole

lecturers who had first class degrees, did not have to do their Ph.D. In fact, in England, when you have two first class like that, you don’t have to do a Ph.D because it is taken automatically that you’re an exceptional student.

“My thinking is that our institutions here could be doing that just to help the students get jobs. I once met a chap in the United States (US), who graduated with a first class. He so much embarrassed us then because he couldn’t meet up with the standard in the US. It was so bad I wouldn’t go into the details.

Some of us showed concern for him and did what we could to save the situation. But, I know

what I’m talking about. So, I wouldn’t agree that any university, not even in foreign countries, can turn out a large number of first class degrees just like that.”

But Prof Obayan disagreed. She said: “Where the lecturers are well equipped, good tutorials and facilities all in place, there is no reason students would not meet the set standard and come out tops in their respective fields of endeavour. I do not think giving out 89 first class honours to deserving students is too much because I feel the essence is about how many met the objectives of the institution and not just giving it out for other purposes as some might •Continued on Page 27

•REP IN EXAM FRAUD: INVESTIGATION UNDERWAY - PAGE 27 •NBTE PROBES GRAFT ALLEGATION AT POLY - PAGE 38

THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2011

26

EDUCATION The Vice-Chancellor, University of Ibadan (UI), Prof. Isaac Adewole, in this interview with JOKE KUJENYA, defends the high turnout of First Class graduates by the institution

‘UI can vouch for its degrees’

I

T is generally believed that the UI is a quality institution that earning its first class degree must be a miracle, but seeing about 106 First Class graduates at once raises eye-brows. How did this happen?

Our motto is Recte Sapere Fons in Latin. This translates to ‘For learning and sound judgment’.

Several generations of our students have been made to imbibe, internalise and practise this. So, earning a first class status at the University of Ibadan is the outcome of a careful selection of very bright and intelligent students who pass through some of the most talented and hardworking academic staff who are leaders in

their fields. Our students are made to pass through a rigorous system here at Ibadan, starting from the selection. We place a high premium on quality. We admit far less than 10 per cent of the total number of candidates who make Ibadan their most preferred university of choice. Our members of staff are very dedicated and we make efforts to continually upgrade our teaching, learning and research facilities.

A combination of all these characteristics should be expected to produce outstanding graduates who are worthy in character and learning. It is a statement of fact that 106 candidates graduated in the First Class division at the end of the 2010/2011 session. This represents

a 3.2per cent of the 3, 241candidates who graduated with classified degrees. In other words, one out of every 33 of our candidates graduated in the First Class category.

Would you say our students today have what it takes to turn out en-masse with first class Degree as we are witnessing today?

Our graduates have what it takes to hold their own after graduation. Apart from their core courses, all of them have taken and passed the prescribed General Studies courses as well as acquired ample training in entrepreneurship. I will speak for the UI. Our university has a full-fledged Centre for Entre-

•A cross section of graduands of Covenant University, Ota during their convocation

preneurship and Innovation (CEI), which exposes students to entrepreneurial skills. For many of the courses, industrial training is also mandatory for exposure to the world of work. With that, I don’t expect less performance from our students. So, there is no doubt that all graduates from UI have earned their degrees. We can vouch for the integrity of our degrees. If it is from Ibadan, it must be good quality. Our mission is ‘to be a worldclass institution for academic excellence geared towards meeting societal needs’. We have all the attributes of a world-class university, namely a high concentration of talent (teaching staff, researchers, administrative and support staff, students); abundant resources (from public budget, tuition fees, endowments and research grants offering facilities to conduct advanced research); and favourable governance (supportive regulatory framework, autonomy, academic freedom, leadership, strategic vision). We remain ever so faithful to attaining these lofty ideals by admitting bright students and recruiting talented academic staff. We have also benefited from many grants including the MacArthur Grant, the Education Trust Fund high-impact intervention, etc, to improve our teaching, learning and research infrastructure. There is a strategic plan that we are implementing meticulously.

Can you tell us about some of the First Class recipients?

I can easily give you information on the 10 candidates that graduated with first class in our Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering. For the records, this department produced the largest number of first class at this year’s convocation. Thirty-seven students were admitted to read B.Sc in Electrical and Electronics Engineering during the 2005/2006 session. Coincidentally, that was the year the university introduced the Post-UME (now Post-UTME) screening of prospective undergraduate students. In UI, we score the candidates Secondary School Leaving Certificates (WASC or NECO) and combine the scores in five cognate subjects with the JAMB score before inviting them for interaction. Empirical data have shown that this template en-

KINGSLEY OSADOLOR, Special Assistant to the Minister of Information,holds a first class degree from the University of Nigeria (UNN), Nsukka. In this piece for The Nation, he unlocks the secrets of how he achieved the feat in 1984.

How to make a first class, by Osadolor

E

ARNING a First Class Honours is, invariably, a byproduct of self-application. I do not believe that anyone is preprogrammed to make a third class, or a bare Pass, provided the individual was qualified in the first instance to be admitted into the university.

The class of degree a student earns in the university is also a function of a point scoring system.

That is what is called the Cumulative Grade Point Average, (CGPA)which is a weighted scoring system.

I attended the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, (UNN) from 1980 to 1984. In my time, the grading system was based on a 4.0 scale.

We had the so-called Almighty June examinations, that is, sessional examinations, rather than a two-semester module. Then, to earn a first class Honours, your CGPA must be from 3.5 to 4.0. A second class upper honours was 3.0 to 3.49. The grade point average is a function of weighted scores. Each course is assigned units. At UNN, the maximum unit for some courses was 9 (nine).

Your score in the course is multiplied by the number of units assigned to the course.

At the time under reference, the grades were A, AB, B, BC, C, CD, etc. CD was a failure. A=4.0; AB=3.5; B=3.0; BC=2.5; C=2.0; etc.

If a student scored an ‘A’ in a 9unit course, that would be 4.0x9=36. Add up all other scores, divide by the number of units offered and you get the grade point.

This is carried over into the next academic session; add the grade point in the new session, divide by two, which gives you the average. This is again carried forward, and you repeat the process, hence the term cumulative.

I am often cautious in discussing my academic performance, because there is the risk of being misunderstood as immodest. But let me state the bare facts. I maintained a consistency during my four-year study at UNN. In other words, my GPA was above 3.5 from year one to the final year. In fact, at the end of the first year, I scored 3.74, which was the highest among all freshmen results in 1980/81. On that basis, I won two

scholarships, which I retained throughout my years of study.

With the bursary paid by the then Bendel State Government, I was a very comfortable student. In the end, I emerged as the Best Overall Graduating Student, with a 3.84 final Cumulative grade point average. There was something said about that being a record, among other things, because it was the first time a student of Mass Communication was emerging as the Best Overall Graduating Student.

What were the tricks? To answer that question, I will have to return to my opening statement, that is to say, self-application. To also return to my analogy of tennis, the Williams sisters could not have amassed the many Grand Slam titles they have between them, if all year round they wore high heels, partied at the best clubs, only to pick up their rackets on the eve of a tournament.

There is a lot of hard work in their undertaking. The same is true for anyone who wants to excel in his or her endeavour. In the academic world, this calls for focus and

•Osadolor

commitment.

A student must know why he is in the university. While it is true that you should not only pass through the university, but that the university should also pass through you, you must design your timetable of life in such a manner that you accord priority to the principal reason for your presence in the university. Some students also struggle with courses, because they do not like such courses. You must be in love with what you are studying, otherwise your attention will be distracted.

•Prof Adewole

ables us to attract first-rate candidates than just relying on the JAMB scores alone. One of the students withdrew voluntarily after the first year. Of the remaining 36 students, 14 were on the Dean’s Honours List which is to say that they had CGPA that qualified them to be in the first class. The following session, 2006/07, was cancelled. At the end of the 2007/ 2008 session, 14 candidates in the class still maintained their standing on the Dean’s Honours List.

However, by the following session, only 10 of the students were able to maintain their standing on the Dean’s Honours List. In essence, four of the candidates who were hitherto in the elite class had dropped. Eventually, 10 candidates in that 2005/2006 intake graduated with first class. This is evidence of consistent hardwork.

I can say without any fear of contradiction that each and every one of our first class graduates is outstanding. We are proud of them and that is one of the reasons the university is offering them postgraduate scholarships tenable at the UI. What is the specific selection procedure?

The UI operates the Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) system, as I told you earlier. With this, all the courses a candidate offers as part of his/her undergraduate programme are used in the computation of the final grade.

In my case, I wasn’t the triangular student. That is, one who went from the hall of residence to the lecture theatre, then straight to the library, and from there to the cafeteria; and finally back to the hostel. With the schedule repeated daily. While I touched on all points on the triangle, I had a timetable that governed my activities. I had time for leisure. A couple of times, I travelled to Enugu to watch Bendel Insurance take on Rangers International, and there was a fellow student who was just as fanatical about Rangers. All through our years of study, we discussed the fortunes of our respective clubs.

I attended parties, without being a crawler. Above all, I listened to music, and was one of the pioneer members of the Jazz Club at UNN. In my final year, I was the Sheriff of the Jazz Club. We organised a concert that was attended by the late Art Alade, Zeal Onyia, Femi Asekun, I think, and other respected figures. I did a review of the concert, which was published in Sunday Times.

With respect to academic work, there are rules that I observe religiously. No course is cheap, and the more difficult a course appears, the better, because I always believe that there must be a reason for the apparent difficulty; so, solve the puzzle. Never miss lectures. But go beyond the lecture notes; so research, and research •Continued on Page 27

27

THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2011

EDUCATION

‘Traditional curriculum not challenging enough’ UPILS can learn much more than the traditional curriculum stipulates for them, the

P

Administrator of Royal Master’s School, Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos, Mrs Seniorba Olatunji, has said.

In an interview at the school which celebrates its 10th anniversary next week, Mrs Olatunji said implementing the Montessori Method in her school has revealed that pupils can learn to do more much earlier than the national curriculum allows.

After earning a degree in Chemistry and a Post Graduate Diploma in Education (PGDE) from the University of Lagos, Mrs Olatunji got trained in the Montessori Method of education both in Nigeria (by Heritage House Montessori Centre) and the United States (Association Montessori International, AMI), in three stages of development namely, 0-3 years, 3-6 years, and 6-12 years.

The Royal Master’s, which she started with her youngest son, David as a pioneer pupil, has gradually been introducing Montessori in phases since inception in September 2001. Last September, the school started

By Kofoworola Belo-Osagie

implementing the 6-12 years stage, referred to as Advanced Montessori programme. It was in making a comparison between the traditional curriculum and the Montessori Method that Mrs Olatunji discovered that children trained using the Montessori Method actually start learning a lot of concepts earlier, a feature she hopes will convince skeptical parents their children will not miss out.

She said: “The school started going towards the Montessori direction from the second year. Today, we have different prepared environments for the different stages.

We have prepared environments for babies, toddlers, pre-school children and we are working on the prepared environment for the 6-12 years (traditional primary school level).

“I decided to compare our Grades 1-5 (Primary 1-5) to the Montessori Advanced programme. I discovered that what children do at age six under Montessori, traditionally, they do it in Primary Three

•Mrs Olatunji showing the prepared environment for Advanced Montessori Programme for teaching Mathematics

by which time they are eight years old.

“The traditional method is an insult to a child’s intellect. The child

will not go mad with too much learning under the Montessori Method.”

Activities lined up the 10th anni-

versary of the school from next Monday include: Fun Day, Exhibition, Lecture, Carol Service and Graduation.

Exam Ethics seek full investigation of Rep in exam fraud

T

HE Exam Ethics Marshals International hascondemned the alleged involvement of a member of the House of Representatives in exam malpractice. It threatened to go to court if the outcome of investigation into the matter is not made public.

According to a report, men of Abia State Criminal Investigation Department (CID) arrested the Personal Assistant (PA) to the lawmaker for alleged examination fraud.

From Gbenga Omokhunu, Abuja

The PA was arrested with another woman suspected to be the invigilator for allegedly sitting for the current Nov/Dec NABTEB examination for her boss.

Founding Chairman of the Exam Ethics Marshals International, Ike Onyechere, at a briefing called on the House of Representatives to investigate the story and make its findings public.

He said: “A newspaper of Decem-

ber 2, reported the arrest of the PA to a member of the House of Representatives for alleged examination fraud.

“If the legislature has been falsely accused, then the onus will be on the newspaper and other actors in the episode to apologise to the legislator and make reparations. But if she is found guilty as alleged, the law must be made to take its course.

“This is one allegation education-

friendly Nigerians in general and the House of Representatives in particular should not be allowed to be swept under the carpet because the integrity of the House is at stake.

Beyond this, the integrity of the entire country is on the international watch list regarding the war against corruption.

“We will make sure that this does not go the same way like others. This body will go to court if the member of the House of Representatives is

found guilty and the powers that be try to sweep the fraud under the carpet. Like any other organisation trying to curb exam malpractice, we shall not rest on our oars.

“Very many serious allegations of exam fraud against top level leaders have been swept under the carpet and left unresolved in the past.

The practice of doing nothing and allowing scandalous revelations of exam fraud to blow over is destroying the country.”

Has first class degree become cheap?

•Continued from Page 25

think. If the students have done well and deserved the award, then so be it. All we should continue to strive for is to improve.”

She has an ally in the Dean, Postgraduate School, UI, Prof Abel Olorunnisola, who said the percentage of students graduating with first class degrees is not alarming. He said in a graduating class of about 3,300, having 105 students make First Class is just about three per cent of the population.

He said: “That is statistically consistent with normal distribution.

Hence, there is nothing like turning out first class en-masse as you suggested. It should also be noted that in the same class over 600 graduands made third class and pass

degrees.

“What you all need to know is that the first class graduands were not specially selected. In the UI, just like other universities the CGPA method is used for the computation and classification of degrees. What this means is that every course registered for by each student is used in the assessment of his or her final score. This is a stringent process that ensures that only students who consistently demonstrate academic excellence by scoring 65 per cent and above in every course taken can make a first class at the end of their studies.

“We had first class graduands in every faculty but not every department. The largest number of 30 first class graduands came from the Faculty of Technology followed by 22 from the Faculty of Science.

This is consistent with previous examination results. It is also a well known fact that most of the brilliant students tend to study science and engineering courses. And though I don’t have the overall CGPA of at least about 10 per cent of the First Class awardees as you requested, but I know that to make a first class your CGPA must be at least six points out of seven points,” he said.

The Vice-Chancellor, Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile Ife, Osun State, Prof Gabriel Omole, said while the falling standard of education is debatable, he would prefer that it is situated in context.

“First, we need to realise that comparing a secondary school student in 2011 to a secondary school student of 1960, for example in terms of curricula, use of internet facilities for resolving complex

mathematical formulae, the standard has not fallen.

“Students curricula in the sciences, mathematics are more complex than in the past. However, in terms of the facility for the use of English Language, general knowledge of the environment and issues, social behaviour, respect for culture and elders, norms and mores commitment to study and discipline, there is an abysmal and appalling fall in standard generally.

“For any student to get a first class

in OAU, that student must be exceptionally brilliant, rarefied and must be in a class of his/her own.

This is because it is not easy. To get a first class, a student’s (CGPA), must be 4.5 and above. To get this, a student must have been getting ‘A’s from Part One! Can you imagine?

So, if a new university graduating just about 1,000 students now has 105 first class of them, I believe the rigour of academic, the test and measurement and general criteria may be questioned.”

How to make a First Class, by Osadolor •Continued from Page 26

even more. Buy books, and more books. I love the library environment. Incidentally, it is also the environment where you can observe those who are restless, or those who have a short attention span. Usually, if it is a library I will use for a long time, I like to pick my spot, establish it as my comfort zone. I will be distracted if every day I come into the same library, I have to sit in a different location. And I also time my presence in the library, but the timing

is tied to the volume I have to read.

For all your preparation, the test lies in your performance in the examination. First rule, when is the exam? Do not appear in the hall after the paper has been written. Faced with a question paper, know what is required. If there is a compulsory question, do not skip it; but you do not have to answer it first. I like to begin with my best. Allocate time for each question, although this is difficult to adhere to, with respect to the last question. If you are to answer

four questions, do not omit to answer any, because to do otherwise is to lose 25 marks even before the grading begins. A candidate must not attempt to set questions for himself. You must, therefore, understand what is required in each question. Then, you give it your best. To score an ‘A’ doesn’t require you to score 100 per cent. In an essay format, you can’t score 100 per cent. On the other hand, it is possible to score 100 per cent in multiple choice questions, the same way it is possible to score zero.

“Why won’t Nigerians crave foreign education? Why Not?...That’s a vote for strike-free, standard education!”

28

THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2011

EDUCATION

Why we hiked LASU fee, by Fashola D

•Prof Makinde (middle) flanked by Prof Ademola Tayo (left), Dean, School of PostGraduate Studies and Prof Luke Onoaha, Vice-President, Financial Administration, at the event PHOTO: BADE DARAMOLA

Babcock’s knowledge is sanctified, knowledge to rejuveNE hundred and says VC their nate the environment and seventy-one post

O

graduate (PG) students have taken the matriculation oath of Babcock University, Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State.

They are the second set of PG students to be admitted by the institution.

The Vice-Chancellor, Prof James Kayode Makinde, told them that as students they were beginning a new journey which has an end. He likened the students to farmers who sow seeds.

“It is a time of planting and sowing. Sowing is a time of uncertainties. Instead of you to be eating, you are taking time to sow into your future. The knowledge that you are offered at

By Sampson Unamka

Babcock University is not a destructive branch of knowledge rather is a redemptive branch of knowledge that it is sanctified and meant to improve students,” he said.

He urged the students to use their knowledge acquired from the institution to lift up the country and stand for the truth at all time. He congratulated them for their courage and ambition and assured that the institution will not fail them. He described the students in management sciences as the managers of the economy, while those in sciences he said should use

for the students in Art and Humanities to use their knowledge to sanctify the environment.

Among the students was popular Nigerian movie actor Mr Alex Usifo Omiagbo who put in for PH.d in Information Resources Management (IRM). In an interview with The Nation, Usifo said Babcock is a disciplined school in terms of moral and attitude towards education. He added: “Knowledge is something you keep acquiring and that it is not something you just do and leave. The moment someone stops learning the person is also dying. Learning helps to activate our intellect.”

ESPITE students’ protest, Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola has defended his administration’s hike in fees of Lagos State University (LASU).

The hike is necessary to provide quality education, he said.

Fashola, who spoke at a luncheon organised by the Government College Ughelli Old Boys’ Association, Lagos branch, lamented that “anytime we talk about our education system, the word decay always comes up.”

He said those privileged to attend government schools when they were still ranked among the best in the world, should share in the blame.

Fashola said more funding is needed to run government schools, adding that the government cannot bear the financial burden alone. This, he said, informed the increase in LASU fees, to achieve the dream of bringing the university to the same level as other institutions around the world.

He appealed for understaing from Lagosians and parents whose children are in the school.

Fashola said: “We should remember that for every time you send your child abroad, the cost of the ticket will

By Pascal Okezu

cover the cost of four years in LASU at the present fee of N25,000. Even in countries richer than Nigeria, there is no university that pays N25,000 as tuition fees, not even N250,000”.

Senator Ike Nwachukwu, who chaired the event, lamented the poor state of education, blaming it on the haste to establish schools.

“In the haste to establish schools, our school system has been bastardised. The most important experience in anybody’s life is education but due to the haste in establishing schools, the quality of education in the country has dropped and non-existent issues like sex, gender, race, religion etc have found their way into the system.

The current Head Boy of the college, Master Tagah Bright, who thanked the old boys for their support said: “The students of the college were identified by the blisters on their palm, until a tractor was donated by the association.”

He pleaded for more assistance in the provision of a generator and books for the library, and reviving the computer laboratory.

The President of the association, Mr Alfred Okoigun, said the old boys, in partnership with the Frank Esi Foundation, run by Exxonmobil are embarking on the construction of an ICT centre to cater for the computer literacy needs of pupils.

Also in attendance were renowned old boys, Deacon Gamaliel Onosode, Prof Itse Sagay, Prof John PeppleClark, among others.

‘We should remember that for every time you send your child abroad, the cost of the ticket will cover the cost of four years in LASU at the present fee of N25,000’

MOCPED holds convocation

T

HE second convocation of the Michael Otedola College of Primary Education (MOCPED), Epe, Lagos State holds on Saturday.

In a statement, the Chairman of the Convocation

Committee, Mrs. L.A. Jegede, said the college will be graduating students of the college from 1999 to 2011 Also, some Nigerians, including Mrs Abimbola Fashola, wife of the Lagos State Governor; Senator Oluremi Tinubu,

Mr Femi Otedola, Chairman, Zenon Oil, and Prof Tunde Samuel, pioneer provost of the college, will be honoured at the event.

Governor Babatunde Fashola (SAN) is expected to chair the occasion.

NGO lifts Lagos public school

F

OR the Adeba community in Ibeju-Lekki, Lagos State, the opening of a block of classrooms and toilets at the Community Primary School, Adeba, by the Education Co-operation Society (ECS), can be likened to an icing on the cake.

The gesture by the ECS, a non-governmental organisation, was not novel; rather, it was a re-enactment of a marriage between the duo six years ago when they constructed a block of two classrooms for the school.

Therefore, parents, teachers, and community leaders expressed joy at the inauguration at the school premises on Tuesday last week, especially as in addition to the classrooms, they learnt ECS will, through its strings of rural/community projects in Adeba develop school civic, gender and environmental education cur-

By Adegunle Olugbamila

riculum for the school and others.

Expressing his appreciation on behalf of the community, Education Secretary Ibeju-Lekki Local Government Education Authority (LGEA), Chief Wole Edalere, who urged other corporate bodies to emulate ECS, noted that the project will enhance teaching and learning in the school.

Similarly, Director, Primary Education, Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Pastor Theophilus Funsho Aina who also re-echoed Edalere, urged the community, teachers and pupils to maintain the new facilities.

He said Governor Babatunde Fashola of Lagos has sustained the philosophy of its predecessor in uplifting public education.

“Since the era of Governor Bola Tinubu, Lagos State has resolved to elevate education to an enviable height through massive reconstruction and rehabilitation as well as the millennium schools among others. This is a gesture that is being sustained by the present administration. We, therefore, implore well-meaning Nigerians parents who have children in private schools to donate part of their Godgiven resources to children in public schools.”

Chairman, Management Council, ECS, Mr Charles Osezuwa went down memory lane on how the relationship started.

“What we have done today is the climax of a relationship that began six years ago when a community leader, Busari Hassan, came to our office in Victoria Island to complain about the terrible state of this school. We then came, and saw the schools were built of temporary bamboo trees with about 110 pupils in a class. We also saw the entire place was water logged. But we could not commence work immediately because we needed to cooperate with the community people first.

“We told him: ‘Sir, you have to first commit before we can partner’. So, the community then engaged the local government which built the first classroom, and we

• Mr Osezuwa (right) handing over the keys of the new facilities to the head of Adeba, Chief Sulaiman Ibrahim. With them is Pastor Aina.

then complemented it with primary school, and then a nursery school and today, we deliver a digital voice portal to amplify the community’s position on issued of rights, civic and environment.”

The project, he said, was made possible through funding by its foreign partners Diputacion Bzkaia in Spain, with the ECS and Asociacion Zabalketa in Spain acting as the implementing partners.

The Head Teacher, Mrs

Ajibade Florence, who also expressed her appreciation, solicited more classrooms to address over population.

“We are approaching 500 in population now. We have over 60 pupils in a class. That was what the ECS saw that made them come to our aid because we put three classes Primary 1, nursery and kindergarten in one class.”

Among other challenges, Mrs Ajibade called for SUBEB’s timely intervention as the natives are encroaching the three acres land given the school by

the community.

“The community gave us three acres, but because there is no help from SUBEB, the land is now being encroached. You can see (pointing to some uncompleted structures at a stone throw to the school) those are some of the buildings. We had complained to the education secretary which invited the community. The community reassured us the three acres will still remain intact but we don’t know how they intend to go about it,” he added.

29

Students seek Sultan’s, Amaechi’s help

A varsity’s changing face Page 34

Page 31

*CAMPUSES *NEWS *PEOPLE *KUDOS& KNOCKS *GRANTS

THE NATION

CAMPUS LIFE 0805-450-3104 email: ladycampus@yahoo.com THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2011

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

email:- campuslife@thenationonlineng.net

Law students of Lagos State University (LASULAWS) beat their colleagues from Africa at the Foreign Direct Investment International Arbitration Moot Court Competition.

NURUDEEN YUSUF (200-Level, Islamic and Common Law, LASU) reports.

•The LASU gate

LASU is Africa’s best D

ESPITE the fee crisis rocking the Lagos State University (LASU), its students are still among the best in the world. Some of its law students displayed skill and dexterity at the Foreign Direct Investment International Arbitration Moot Court Competition. They

•From left: Dr. Gbadebo, Bryan Pereboom (Pepperdine University) Daniel, Bradley Thomasma (Pepperdine University) and Geoffrey.

emerged the best from Africa.

The competition, organised by the Centre for International Legal Studies, was held between November 4 and 6 at the Kings College, London. LASU representatives were Prof Olusegun Yerokun, Dean; Dr. Gbadebo Olagunju, lecturer, Depart-

ment of International Law and Jurisprudence. The counsel, both 500-Level students, were Chinedu Geoffrey Ihenetu and Daniel Ogunbote.

Institutions in attendance included University of Barcelona, Universite Paris, I Pantheon Sorbonne, Universidad de

Granada, Uni Curitiba, Suffolk Silesia, Russian Academy of Justice, Pepperdine University, Paris Dauphine, NUJS, Novosibirsk, Novi Sad, Northumbria University, New York University, Mykolas •Continued on page 30

•Robbers kill student - PG 32 •Young journalist wins award - PG 33

THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2011

30

CAMPUS LIFE

What is Jonathan’s plan for education?

I

NEED an answer to this question, and urgently. President Goodluck Jonathan took over the saddle in May, 2010, soon we’d be counting two years in office; but I am yet to know for sure what his plan is for the education sector – his primary constituency, considering that he left lecturing to join politics in 1998.

Over one year ago, in the euphoria of the nation’s Golden Jubilee celebration, he announced a grandiose design for education. I was sure we had the long overdue “emergency” solution to the ills plaguing that beleaguered sector which is at the heart of all the other sectors, next to food security and health. This hope was buoyed with the actual setting up of a committee to set things in motion early in January.

My fear started with the delay in receiving the committee’s report. When eventually that happened after the April election – in May – one was not keen on allowing one’s hopes to be raised again.

And indeed since that time, one is yet to see anything happen to change the status quo.

Now, with the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) finally starting its long threatened strike this week, I am hard pressed to ask the question I started this topic with. What is President Jonathan’s plan for the education sector?

On Sunday, the university teachers announced what they called a “total, comprehensive and indefinite strike”. This would mean “no teaching, no examinations, no grading of scripts, no project

Pushing Out

It added: “NEC (of ASUU), having noted that the Federal Government neglected, ignored, failed and refused to implement the core components of the 2009 FGN/ ASUU agreement, after more than two years of its signing, having squandered two months it rewith quested without achieving any Ngozi Agbo progress in the implementation of the agreement, having sacked the 08054503104 Implementation Monitoring Com(SMS only) mittee that served as the forum for dialogue with ASUU on this dis•campuslife@thenationonlineng.net pute, is convinced that the govern•ladycampus@yahoo.com ment is terribly insincere and is manifestly unwilling to genuinely implement the agreement it freely entered supervision, no inaugural lectures, no appointment and promotion meetings, no into with ASUU. Why are we like this? Why do we constatutory meetings (Council, Senate, Board etc.) or other meetings directed by tinually have leaders for whom honour and sincerity mean little, if anything? government or their agents.”

Their main grouse is with the And why do we keep allowing them to government’s refusal to implement the get away with the routine disappointment 2009 Federal Government (FGN)/ASUU and mediocrity?

Something that happened last Sunday agreement. This was when Jonathan’s predecessor, the now late Umaru Yar’Adua, supplied me with the answer. It is something we do and see every day. We were was president and Jonathan was vice.

Then, just two years ago, the government on our way to church. It was just after the had convinced no less a personage than Jibowu under bridge, we were headed tothe respectable Gamaliel Onosode, an wards the University of Lagos (UNILAG) educationist and gentleman par excel- route. Those who are familiar with the lence, to lead its negotiation team. The road are aware that though that part of man who is among the very few Nigeri- the double lane (on Herbert Macaulay ans with a truly good name has not only Road) was initially for motorists going been insulted by the Yar’Adua and our way, but one side of it has been given Jonathan’s governments, in their contin- over to those going towards the Tejuoso ued refusal to honour that agreement, the Market or Ikorodu Road.

Anyway, this Sunday, we had just enefforts he put in then (at his age) has not tered the road from Ikorodu Road when been rewarded.

According to the ASUU National Presi- suddenly the man in front of our car drove dent, Prof Ukachukwu Awuzie, the deci- to the other side (meant for motorists comsion to embark on the strike was painful. ing from the opposite direction) and beckHe said that the long-drawn interaction oned on a street hawker selling handkerASUU had with the government bordered chiefs. I and my husband were doubly on saving the university system from col- surprised because there was actually a lapse and institutionalising global stan- car coming towards this man. But he dard practices of knowledge culturing, didn’t seem to care. He parked and waited spanning 2001 till date. He accused the for the hawker and went ahead to buy his government of having “abandoned the handkerchief. As our car drove off, I looked main tenet of industrial democracy- that back and the motorist with the right of all agreements freely entered into must be way was just there, trying to see a space so to maneuver his car into our side of the honoured”.

road.

All he did was to make a curse sign to this lawbreaker who promptly sent back his own curse sign. End of matter. I’m sure none of them would remember the “very minor” incident 20 minutes later.

This happens on our roads, offices, classrooms, streets and homes every day.

We are a bunch of selfish, presumptuous and arrogant people who seem to derive pleasure by inflicting much pain and inconvenience of others. Oh, our utter lack of consideration for others is galling! Our tendency to make promises we have no plans of keeping is legendary.

On my street, I have a Pentecostal church as next door neighbours. The racket the members manage to raise virtually every evening under the guise of having a service or whatever else they do daily is exasperating. Some mornings, they start the day by playing Christian music on loud, noisy loudspeakers and this would go on to noon sometimes. Of course, this is after the nearby mosque has finished with its call to prayer and recitations. I used to think it was only the call to prayers that the mosques did, but that’s the least this one near me does every day.

Indeed as it has been said that a people deserves the leadership it gets, we do seem to well deserve the people-deceivingpeople kind of leaders we have wallowed under these past 12 years.

And just to “nicely tush up matters”, as my students would say, Labour Minister, Chief Emeka Wogu was quoted as saying that the government was unaware that ASUU was even proposing to go on a strike proposal.

According to him, the last meeting the government held with Labour agreed on an adjournment for Wednesday (yesterday).

“We are not aware of the strike plan,” he was quoted as saying.

Jonathan is yet to say anything directly about ASUU since he became President.

But his aides speak for him. All the same, I am still searching for what to hold him to as it concerns the education sector.

Ciao

‘Students must speak with one voice’ Muslim students get new leaders Abdulazeez Umaru is the Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the Students Union Government (SUG) of the Federal Polytechnic, Auchi (AUCHI POLY). The Higher National Diploma (HND) II student of Mass Communication, spoke to ‘TOSIN AJUWON (classmate) on his plan as the mouth piece of the union.

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HAT prompted your interest in varsity politics?

I realised that the youth are the future leaders. So, when the time is ripe we will assume the leadership of this country.

So, politics is one of the requirements we need in that capacity. We must tread the footsteps of our forebears by bequeathing a united country to the next generation. So, I see school politics as the learning ground for success in national politics.

How do you plan to surpass the achievements of your predecessors?

My dream for the students is to ensure a paradigm shift in their social academic status through useful and adequate information. I will make sure that the issue of halftruth information is completely eradicated during my time. I will also bring the students in contact with modern ICT devices in information dissemination.

How would you tackle the dearth of information on campus?

I have been in discussion with the appropriate quarters on the prospects of sending necessary information to students through electronic means.

What would you do to improve the relationship with campus journalists?

I understand the office I occupy is affiliated to the press and in working with gentlemen of the press, the workload only becomes lighter. I will work closely with campus journalists because we are all here to ensure the students are fairly treated in the scheme of things.

Students call you China phone, why?

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HE Muslim Students Society of Nigeria (MSSN), Lagos Area Unit, has elected new leaders. They were elected at the Iponri Estate Central Mosque, Lagos, during a programme tagged: “Towards a positive reawakening”.

In his welcome speech, the Amir Lagos Unit, Mallam Abdur Rashyd said: “The annual symposium is the programme which is specifically dedicated to addressing contemporary issues affecting the society at large. This year’s edition is combined with the conference where reports will be presented; the executive will be dissolved and new brothers and sisters will be sworn in to direct the affairs of the society for the next two years.”

Chairman of the occasion, Dr Muiz Banire praised the organisers for adhering to the stipulated time which is of value to Muslims. He said Islamic values include total submission to Allah’s command.

From Nurudeen Yusuf LASU

The guest lecturer, Dr. Raji Abdul, who spoke on: “The emerging social networking and its effects on the youth”, said “social networking is the grouping of individuals into specific groups like small rural communities, most especially online which intention is to communicate with one another easily” He added that rather than using the sites the right way, youths engage themselves in cyber crime, leading to addiction.

The chairman of Shura committee, AbdulFatai AbdulYekeen, dissolved the executive and announced the new executive.

They include: AbdulLateef AbdulSalam (President), Moshood Olatunji, Naibul Amir (Vice President), Abubakar Yekeen, (General Secretary), among others.

LASU is Africa’s best •Continued from page 29

•Abdulazeez

China phone is my nickname. It is very symbolic and extraordinary. As we all know, China phones are loud compared to other phones. My point is if Nigerian students must stand united, we must speak with one voice and it must be loud.

Romeris, Minas Gerais, Mgimo, Masaryk, Kyiv University, Kings College, Kaplan, City University, Hong Kong, Houston University, Charles University, Gujarat University, University of Belgrade, Georgetown University, Buenos Aires University, Belarusian University, Boston University and Ankara University.

The build-up to the oral finals included a written submission by more than 200 universities across the world. LASU was among the 36 invited for the finals. The LASU team competed against teams from Pepperdine University (US), Russian Academy of Justice (Russia), Buenos Aires University (Argentina) and Gujarat University (India).

Though the team lost at Round 16, just before the quarter finals, LASULAWS was crowned “The Best Team in Africa”

and “14th” in the world. The counsel made the university, Nigeria and Africa proud by beating their American, Asian and European counterparts. Kings College, London won the competition.

The founder of the competition, Prof Martin Hunter, whose book on International Investment Arbitration is widely regarded in Europe as the “Bible” of this unique area of law, praised the LASU students.

Remarkably, in the World Student Arbitrator Rankings, Geoffrey was listed 41st and Daniel, 78th out of 107 students.

Geoffrey told CAMPUSLIFE that he was happy to fly the Nigerian flag. He called for more funding of such competitions.

“We are calling on the government, organisations and individuals to put more into competitions like this so as to help wake law students from slumber and propel them to legal research”.

THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2011

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CAMPUS LIFE

Students seek Sultan’s, Amaechi’s help The Muslim students in Rivers State University of Science and Technology (RSUST) have appealed to the Governor of Rivers State and Sultan of Sokoto over the threat to demolish their makeshift mosque by the management. OLAWALE AJETUNMOBI reports.

•The makeshift mosque

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HE Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria (MSSN), Rivers State University of Science and Technology (RSUST) chapter, has appealed to Governor Chibuke Amaechi and the President, Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) Alhaji Muhammed Sa’ad Abubakar, to prevail on the management not to demolish their makeshift mosque.

In a letter entitled: “Come to our rescue” signed by the group’s Vice-President, Sulaimon Abdul-Awwal, the students urged Amaechi and Abubakar to prevail on the school authority to allow peace reign. It said the muslim community should not be denied its constitutional right of worship.

Abdul-Awwal said the students had written several letters to the

management, asking for a permanent site for the mosque but got no response.

According to him, after it dawned on the students that their plea had fallen on deaf ears, they restructured the makeshift mosque to make it more conducive for members and non-student worshippers.

Abdul-Awwal said: “The restructuring commenced on December 3, 2011 but to our surprise, the Director of Works came and ordered that the restructuring work should be stopped. He told us that the mosque was the only illegal thing on the campus. He threatened to demolish the structure on Monday, December 5, 2011 if he still found the structure there.

He said: “I will remove the entire thing (mosque).”

Narrating their ordeal, he said: “For the

•The campaign at Alausa

Last Saturday, a non-governmental organisation (NGO), Feminine Care Development Foundation (FCDF), held a rally on bringing back the girl-child from the street to the classroom. ADENIKE ASHOGBON (recently finished from Mass Communication, Lagos State Polytechnic) was there.

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•Mr Amaechi

past eleven years, the Muslim community has been writing frequently to the school authority to have a permanent site for worship (mosque) but their efforts were fruitless. No audience was given except on two separate occasions where threat letters were sent for the suspension of executive members of the society.

“On March 19, 2005, the RSUST security operatives accompanied by policemen on the order of then ViceChancellor, came to demolish the tent used as mosque and carted away some valuable materials worth thousands of naira, some of which are still in their custody.”

He continued: “Due to our unrelenting efforts, we are able to maintain the temporary makeshift tent till today.

Now, they have come back for

demolition without giving us another location on the campus. Meanwhile, our Christian brothers enjoy good locations with massive structures of six different churches, some of which were erected after denial of our several requests to have a place of worship.”

The students said they have written to Governor Amaechi, the Vice-Chancellor and Muslim leaders in the state, but none has replied. “The RSUST management resorted to unofficial verbal promise that a place of worship has been allocated for us on the proposed new university site, which is yet to take off,” said a student who pleaded anonymity.

They appealed to the management and Amaechi to consider their request.

They called on the Sultan to intervene to the end their predicament.

•Some street children that participated in the rally

Taking the girl-child from streets to school ITH the increasing population of school-age children aimlessly roaming the streets and hawking to eke out a living, many believe the nation’s remains bleak if necessary action is not taken to arrest the malaise. With no help from the government, NGOs have been spurred to action to redeem the situation

•The Sultan

by reclaiming the school-age children from the streets.

This is the aim of Feminine Care Development Foundation (FCDF), which focuses solely on indigent, orphaned and highlymarginalised girl-child whose dream of going to school is threatened by poverty.

The NGO, last week, staged a campaign

to emancipate the girl-child on the streets of Lagos. The rally, which started at 10am last Saturday, moved from Lagos State House of Assembly, Alausa, Ikeja to Ojota and other areas.

The campaign was organised strictly to restore the right of the girl-child.

According to the organisers, the initiative was to lend a helping hand to parents who are unable to send their female children to school.

Speaking, Ms Jumoke Awe, the Regional Project Coordinator of FCDF and former CAMPUSLIFE correspondent at Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU) said: “Women are the bedrock of a healthy and sustainable economy. But here in Nigeria, hundreds of thousands of our young girls are on the street without aims. It is this demeaning fact that we, as a foundation, took up the challenge yearly to take girls, full of potentials, away from the street to school

where her potentials can be positively harnessed and realised.

“The goal of the initiative is to advocate for the education of the girl-child with the target of getting 1,000 girls off the street to school by September 2012.” One of the girls taken off the street said: “We are grateful to Feminine Care for opening our eyes to opportunities we would have missed as young citizens.”

Participants included representatives of Humanity Family Foundation for Peace and Development (HUFFPED), its Executive Director of Finance, Mrs. Kemi Adeyeye, and a representative of Environmental Right Action/Friends of the Earth Nigeria (ERA/ FoEN), Mrs. Betty Abah.

FCDF was established in 2003 as a national vehicle for the provision of care and education services to women with the central focus of developing the girl-child to a responsible citizen.

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THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2011

CAMPUS LIFE Dept holds AIDS seminar

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•The moot court in session

Controversy trails mock trial

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HE Faculty of Law, Ekiti State University, (EKSU) Ado-Ekiti, has held its maiden mock trial in honour of its Dean, Dr. T. A. Akomolede.

The competition was held at the Moot Court of the faculty with the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) as the only contender against the host school.

The case centred on a burglary and theft involving two accused.

A chief magistrate sat over the trial. OAU appeared for the prosecution; EKSU was for the defence. Adebayo Seyi and Aziza Onoriode were the counsel for the prosecution. The proceedings began about 1pm with the court clerk reading out the charges. The accused pleaded not guilty. The first objection was raised by Omidoyin Taiwo, the chief counsel for the defence, on the inconsistency of information on the charge sheet. The prosecution responded and the judge upheld the prosecution argument.

The prosecution called its witnesses, who examined and re-examined. The witnesses included the victim, an eye witness, the girlfriend of one of the accused and the investigation police of-

From Adebayo Caleb OAU

ficer (IPO). The prosecution was given seven minutes for the examination. After the prosecution had called all its witnesses, the defence team led by Omidoyin Taiwo made a “no case submission.” It argued that the prosecution had no prima facie case.

Responding, the prosecution said a “no case submission” could not be based on evidence given as was done by the defence.

After the parties closing submissions, the court went on recess On resumption, the judge, awarded OAU seven points for dressing and EKSU, six points.

However, she said while compiling the results in her chambers, the EKSU team explained that it had difficulties in finding the white bibs, so she added a point to its mark to level with OAU. When the aggregate was announced, OAU was one point behind EKSU, who scored 46 points.

The judge said she overruled the “no case submission” because the prosecution tendered evidence linking the accused with the offence.

But, she said, she was not using the result of the facts of the case but the grading of certain criteria given to her by the host school such as dressing, composure among others.

Controversy ensued when the chairman of Moot and Mock Committee, OAU, said the criterion for grading was not disclosed to the OAU team before the event. The EKSU team, however, received the grading criteria as was confirmed by its lead counsel. The president of the Law Students Society (LSS), Akinola Olusola, apologised, saying they gave the criteria to the registrar who failed to read it out at the start of the trial.

The chairman addressed the court, saying OAU believes in fairness wherever it went. He also turned down an attempt by the former president of LSS to give the trophy to OAU in the spirit of sportmanship. The judge praised the OAU team.

Certificates were presented to participants. Awards for the first position and runner up were also presented. Onoriode, won the best counsel award.

HE National Association of Microbiology Students, University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) Chapter organised a seminar to mark the World AIDS Day. It was tagged: “An HIV-Free Generation” and was held at the Geology auditorium.

Speaking on Personal Branding, the guest speaker, Mr Nasri Abdulquadri who is also the CEO of D-Positive Image Consult, urged the students to make a good brand of themselves and exhibit good virtues rather than indulge in immodest behaviour.

He also gave antidotes on building personal brands which he said will help reduce risk of contracting the virus.

Prof J. O. Adewuyi of the Department of Haematology, (UITH) urged the students to abstain from premarital sex.

President of the Students Association, Yusuf Rasheed said youths have the capacity to create an HIV free generation and it begins with the students of tertiary institutions.

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AST Thursday was a sad day as staff and students of Olabisi Onabanjo University, (OOU) were thrown into mourning.

Pandenomuin broke out when some armed robbers, who were said to be responsible for the bank robbery attack at Sagamu, shot sporadically in the air at the mini campus.

Unfortunately, Leye Balogun who is a final year Chemical Engineering student was thrown into a state of shock and slumped after several gunshots. He was immediately rushed to the hospital and confirmed dead by the doctors without any precise reports.

Students, who heard of his death went to the Anatomy Department where he was taken for embalmment. They, however, insisted on seeing his dead body and confirmed that he was still breathing but was in coma. The students reacted by shouting back at the nurses who decided to take him back to the hospital where he gave up the ghost.

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HE University of Maiduguri, (UNIMAID) has officially opened a gymnasium and swimming pool.

The Vice-Chancellor, Prof M. Daura, the sports director, sports officials,

From Taiwo Isola UNIMAID

principal officers and students, among others, attended the event.

Daura said the importance of

physical fitness cannot be overemphasised. He urged the students to make good use of the facilities.

Students were thrilled at the swimming pool arena by artistes and comedians.

•The late Leye From Modestus Diko OOU

An artiste popularly known as Bush Boi lamented Leye’s death and said it was due to negligence on the part of the Medical Practitioners

Varsity inaugurates student leaders

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Varsity opens swimming pool, gymnasium

The Nigerian Association of Agricultural Student (NAAS), University of Ilorin Chapter (Unilorin) held its annual orientation programme for fresh students admitted into the department.

Dean of the faculty, Prof O. A. Omotosho urged the students to be consistent and get prepared for challenges ahead.

Sub Dean of the faculty, Dr. J. A. Akanbi told the students to give their best in order to ascertain academic excellence; he also taught the students ways of calculating their Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) The President of the department, Ismaila Damilare advised the students to see agriculture as a gift from God and urged them to remain focused in their academic pursuit. He also introduced the department executives to the new students

Robbers kill student

HE Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) Student’s Representative Council (SRC) has inaugurated its officials for the 2011/ 2012 session.

The new officials were sworn in by the Vice-Chancellor, Prof Abdullahi Mustapha who was represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Admin) Prof Idris Funtua at the senate chamber.

The Dean of Students Affairs, Dr. Isyaku, in his opening remark, urged the officials to “direct their energies to issues that directly affect their colleagues rather than strain their energies in trivial political pursuits”. He also charged the students to shun all moral and

•The swimming pool

From Michael Adebayo and Olushola Aremu UNILORIN

From Moses Kawaat ABU

anti-social vices.

The oath of office was taken by the officials led by the school’s legal officer. The new president Chiroma Yahaya Ilyas thanked the Vice-Chancellor, staff and students for their support. He also promised to work effortlessly with other officials to improve the welfare of students during his tenure. Other officials, who were sworn in include; Usman Abdullahi (Vice President), Ibrahim. Amidu (Secretary General), Abdulsalam Ajoke (Assistant Secretary Genera), amongst others.

THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2011

33

CAMPUS LIFE Dental Nursing students get new leaders Students launch class journal

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•The new exco with their HOD

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NEW leadership, saddled with the responsibility of midwifing and piloting the affairs of the Association of Nigerian Dental Nurses (Dental surgery Technicians/ Assistants), Bayelsa State College of Health Technology (BYCOHTECH) chapter, has emerged after a keenly contested election.

The election was held at the department’s pavillion with only 51 students proven credible to cast votes for candidates of their choice.

Students were accredited before casting their votes; voting came to an end at about 5pm. The result was announced by the the

From Isaac Mensah BYCOHTECH

electoral chairman, Suowari Ebisuobo. He further announced Osain Joseph as the President of the association having polled 34 votes against contenders out of 51. Other elected executives include Oscar Shirley (Vice president), Yoyo Godspower (Secretary) among others.

Head of department, Dental Health Sciences, Dr. Ephraim Emmanuel advised the newly elected executives to eschew ‘personal prejudices’ and ‘unwanted vices’ capable of jeopardising the

peaceful co-existence between staff and students of the department while their administration last.

The HOD, who gave the advice while inaugurating the newly elected executives, urged them to see their various official capacities as a springboard for greater obligations.

In his acceptance speech, the President, Osain Joseph promised to strengthen the frontiers of unity and harmony among students by addressing student’s related issues as well as embarking on projects that will be meaningful to the association.

Student advocates inaugurated

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HE Judicial Council of the Students’ Union (SU), University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) has sworn-in its new student legal practitioners. The ceremony was presided over by the chief judge, Justice Kazeem Iliasu.

The chief judge noted that “it is injurious to the society if people refrain from what they should do”.

He promised that his ultimate goal will be the promotion of effective and efficient dispensation of justice.

Twenty-three new student legal

From Dayo Akinola UNILORIN

practitioners were called to the Bar and the trio of advocates Kembi Adeola, Idris Hakeem and Mosobalaje Shakirudeen were conferred with the title of Senior Advocate of the Union (SAU) for their numerous contributions to the development of the bar, they thereafter took an oath to defend the SU constitution, other SU laws and the rule of law in general.

The event also witnessed the

presentation of 2011/2012 SU Court Rules. The chief judge decried the hitherto lack of court rules for legal proceedings which makes student legal practitioners appear in court with different court rules from various states.

Esuola Abdulwasiu, a 100L Combined Law student, was among those called to bar. He said: “I am very elated to be considered worthy of being called to the bar.

It’s a thing of joy to start experiencing the system even as a student.”

T was a record-breaking moment for the sophomore students of English department, University of Lagos as they launched their class journal. The journal, Reflections went to the press last week and is recorded to be the first ever class journal by sophomore students in the history of the university.

The journal is a 73-page book which comprises several poems, short stories and special works written by members of the class. It also contains an appendix with the list of all class members as a means of recognising everyone in the class.

Zoe Octavia Kpaka, a member of the class spoke on how the idea was conceived. “The idea was borne out of the desire to leave a legacy that will portray the uniqueness of the class members.”

The class representative, German Powei said: “I feel proud that such a thing occured in my time and though I wasn’t fully involved because I have so many other things to attend to, the journal is lovely.”

The reaction of the class members about the journal varied from pride to pure euphoria about the accomplishment. Adediji Tayo

From Yetunde Lemboye UNILAG

said: ”The journal is a great accomplishment and I believe it is the beginning of greater things to come.”

The editor, Kayode Odumboni said: “The journal took a lot of effort and hard work on the part of some dedicated individuals to successfully complete it.”

Kayode said: “I feel that Reflections is, like the name implies, is a reflection of how we see life. It is the spectacle which we hold up to life.”

Alumni holds lecture

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HE Alumni Association of the University of Ilorin, (UNILORIN) Lagos chapter has organised a lecture series for students. It was held at the university auditorium. The theme for the series was ‘Life after Graduation.’

The guest Speaker, Mrs. Folusho Olaniyan, who is also an alumnus of the institution, told the students of her experience of what life after school could be like and her ordeal as the supervisory officer in a factory despite her qualification.

From Michael Adebayo UNILORIN

She challenged the students to imbibe good attitudes, team spirit, and flexibility in order to succeed in life. She also read out some professional ethics such as starting your day with to-do lists, using a diary, filling the gap, creating a 3,600 network, acquire training among others.

Highlight of the event was the award of scholarships to indigent students by the association.

•Students at the event

Fellowship holds welcome service

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•Shehu Sani receiving his prize from German Ambassador to Nigeria, Dorothy Janatzek Wenzel

Young journalist wins award

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INNERS of the young Journalist essay competition organised by Deutsche Welle Radio International, Freedom Radio Kano in collaboration with Bayero University, Kano, on Social Media: a Challenge for Journalism were presented with awards at CIT Theatre BUK last week.

The Vice-Chancellor of BUK Prof Abubakar Rasheed, said the success of the competition will pave way for research between the two countries. He added that the university is among the best in Nigeria and is

From Ibrahim Suleja BUK

undergoing three phases of restructuring in terms of physical expansion, expansion of courses and international partnership.

German Ambassador to Nigeria, Janetzke Wenzel congratulated the winners, participants and the organisers of the competition. She said the initiative has given rise to a cordial relationship between Germany and Nigeria as well as Bayero University, Kano.

In his keynote address, the Head

of African Service Radio Deutsche Welle, Mr. Thomas Moesch emphasised the need for using social media as a democratic way of sharing information and for national development.

Head of Mass Communication Department, (BUK) Dr. Balarabe Maikaba said the competition is aimed at establishing a good rapport between Deutsche Welle Radio, Freedom Radio and the institution.

Highlight of the event was the presentation of awards to the winners.

HE Nigerian Fellowship of Evangelical Students (NIFES), Petroleum Training Institute, (PTI) Effurun Chapter has organised a welcome service programme for new members.

It took place at the NIFES House and was tagged “Yes, You Can” The programme highlights included, choir ministration by his minstrel choir, drama presentation, a brief mock examination that emphasized the importance of reading and adhering to examination instructions and other side at-

From Akindotun Akintomide PTI

tractions.

The fellowship president, Anisha Alfred urged the freshmen to appreciate God for gaining admission.

The guest speaker, Pastor Mrs. Verah Orhobor, enjoined the students to choose God as their first companion in order to triumph academically and spiritually on campus.

After the service, the hall was set agog as students were treated to eba and egusi soup.

THE NATION THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 24, 2011

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CAMPUS LIFE

A varsity’s changing face Students of Federal University of Technology, Minna (FUT MINNA) have resumed for another session. They were welcomed back to the campus with the renovation of their halls of residence. FAITH OLANIRAN (recently finished from Biochemistry, FUT MINNA) reports.

•Another hall of residence renovated by the management

•One of the hostels being painted

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HE Federal University of Technology, Minna (FUT MINNA) has resumed for a new academic session. The session marks the expiration of the tenure of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof M.S. Audu. But the VC is not just leaving the school, he is bequeathing a legacy that would outlive his tenure at FUT MINNA. Those who knew the state of the school environment before would definitely attest to the transformation Audu brought to the university. On the two campuses of the institution, the returning students and visitors would be thrilled by the renovated buildings.

The institution, which recently celebrated its 27th anniversary, has a student population of over 15,000 and staff strength of about 2,467. It has six faculties which include the School of Engineering and Engineering Technology, School of Environmental Technology, School of Information and Communication Technology, School of Entrepreneurship Technology and School of Science and Science Education.

As part of the measures to rejuvenate learning, the management has embarked on infrastructure renewal. All the halls of residence, lecture rooms and laboratories are undergoing renovation. As at the time of this report, work was ongoing on the school buildings to ensure everything is set before academic activities start.

The renovations were not only on the structures but also on the environment. Work is on to keep the lawn and other grassy areas lush green. Also, the management has introduced speed limit signposts within the school to lower the speed of vehicles visiting the campus and reduce the rate of accidents. Navigation signposts to guide new visitors to places have been mounted at strategic locations.

The speed limit signpost will give the students a sense of safety of life from accidents within the school premises.

Many students have praised the Vice-Chancellor, saying the renovation would facilitate smooth learning process. “Students will

be proud to receive lecture under circumstances like this new environment, the grass blends with the trees and shade to cool off the sun,” said a student. Hauwa Bello, a student from School of Information and Communication Technology, said: “As a student, I would be happy to receive lecture in an environment that will enhance my learning ability.”

Meanwhile, just as the renovation is going on, students have started their departmental registration and clearance. CAMPUSLIFE gathered that the newly-admitted students paid acceptance fees that varied according to faculties. Students who refused to pay the fee may lose their admission status. Various associations on campus were seen canvassing students to pay their dues. The calendar for the new session is expected to end in July 2012.

CAMPUSLIFE spoke to some students on challenges they face on registration.

Jeremiah Salawu, 100-Level Biochemistry, said: “I don’t have feelings that I am in the school yet because all I have been doing since

I arrived are normal things I have passed through. Though, the registration process is a bit stressful and complicated but I can still withstand it.”

Mercy Aliu, 200-Level Biochemistry, said: “The registration is stressful and time-consuming. But I must give kudos to the management for looking into the plight of the students by renovating the halls of residence.” Hosanna Jeffrey, another 200-Level student, also praised the management for the renovation.

Daniel Inuowkeke, 100-Level Chemistry, expressed happiness over his admission into the school. He complained about the difficulty being encountered by students in the online registration, which included deduction of money twice from the e-payment account of students and problems of “expired” O’ Level results. Rashidat Saliu, who was admitted into Crop Science, said she went through stress in the process of registration, which was due to the bad network at the bank.

Confab on Vision 20:2020 At the Federal Polytechnic, Auchi (AUCHIPOLY), Edo State, students, lecturers and parents gathered for a conference on the place of ICT in realising Vision 20:2020. ‘TOSIN AJUWON (HND II Mass Communication) was there.

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O ensure that the economy achieves the objectives of the Vision 20:2020, the School of Communication and Information Technology (ICT) of the Federal Polytechnic, Auchi, Edo State, has held a conference. The thrust, CAMPUSLIFE learnt, was to put Nigeria among prominent nations in the forefront of technological advancement.

The conference, which attracted dignitaries in outstanding technological fields, was tagged Information and Communication Technology (A roadmap for achieving Vision 20:2020 SICTON). The chief host was Dr. Philipa Idogho, Rector of the polytechnic.

In her keynote address, she affirmed that Nigeria can meet the goals of Vision 20:2020 in ICT if “all hands are on deck to put this nation among the top countries of the world.”

She praised President Goodluck Jonathan and Edo State Governor, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, for their efforts in promoting information technology. These she listed to include the donation of computers to various schools and

higher institutions.

The lead papers were presented

by Prof Stella Chiemeke, of the Department of Computer Science, University of Benin (UNIBEN) and Dr Chudi Okwechime, Dean, School of Business Studies, Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi-Uku. According to Prof Chiemeke, in mid 2011, Nigeria became the largest mobile market with over 90 million subscribers and, ranks 104 out of 188 Global ICT users in the world.

Dr Okwechime lamented that the use of the Internet in Africa is mainly on social networking sites, such as Facebook, Twitter, 2go, Yahoo! and others which many Nigerian youths indulge in. According to him, some of such sites encourage unpleasant relationships, lack of concentration in studies and even influence some young people to get involved in criminal activities.

He decried the sad influence of some of these sites on students where their spelling of words is affected.

The Chairman, Governing Council of the institution, Alhaji Yahaya Alhasan, praised Dr. Okwechime

•Students at the confab

for a thorough research to support the data in his presentation.

He, thereafter, opened the way for the audience to participate by asking questions on the papers.

Some of the participants, especially students, spoke on the need to ensure Nigerian leaders make adequate provision for information communication technology (ICT).

“I think Nigeria has grown to the level of making the youth computer literate. We need to be ICT compliant and redefine the social value system of the environment because with ICT security lapses will be a thing of the past”. This

was the submission of Tony Imosieghe.Faith Aweiohle, another student, described the conference as “very interesting” but called for a total overall into the ICT system of the country. “We need more technologies that will provide us answers to our challenges. Because one of the challenges Nigeria is facing is lack of good technology. We need investors to come and assist. Without proper and adequate ICT we are doomed. ICT will help in tracking all forms of violence witnessed in the northern part of the country”.

A parent who is also a retired lecturer, Mrs Vivian Omoloja, from

Delta State Polytechnic, advised young people to embrace the good sides of social network and blogs instead of abusing them.

“I can’t imagine the youth doing all forms of indecent things with the Internet to the extent that some of them even put their nude picture on it and other provocative videos. These are very bad. They are to take the mantle of leadership when we are no longer there.

I think they should go back to the drawing board and reexamine themselves. If these are done Nigeria will be great and have a good socio-economic and value system,” she submitted.

THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2011

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CAMPUS LIFE

How strike kills education

By Zeenat Ibrahim blackqueen0110n@yahoo.com

W

HEN Nobel laureate, Prof Wole Soyinka, said a few years ago, that his generation has failed Nigeria, many felt he had been bitten by the pessimism bug. Dispassionate watchers of developments in Nigeria, however, agreed with his submission, which originated from the parlous state of affairs and the

I

HAVE heard a lot about him and I have always longed to meet and hear him speak. All to no avail.

The reason, perhaps, was due to the wide gulf between us. He resides and works in Lagos but I was schooling in Plateau State. But at last, our paths crossed. Thanks to Coca-Cola and the Nigerian Bottling Company (NBC) for making me realise my dream.

When he walked into the Lagoon Hall of Mainland Hotel, Oyingbo, Lagos, the venue for the workshop for campus journalists, I waited patiently to hear what he would say.

He sat gently without betraying any emotion. He flipped through a file of papers but looked calm as he read through the speech he was to deliver.

mismanagement of our collective patrimony which is evident in all strata of our life.

Today, the incompetence of Nigerian leaders has almost brought down all segments of our national life following incessant workers’ strike. Worst hit by the strike is the education sector.

Education, in all climes, is seen as a vital, if not the main, ingredient for development and advancement without which a society would continue to grope in the dark. The rate at which a nation that is blessed with abundant intellectual citizenry excels cannot be compared to that of a dullard and in the same rate the nation of dullards and the indolent.

Regrettably, the strikes embarked upon by teachers at various levels of education have resulted in steady decline in educational values.

Presently, all government-owned primary schools are in shambles

because teachers are not adequately remunerated. Teaching instruments are not provided while the buildings called classrooms are dilapidated.

In some parts of the country, primary school pupils attend classes under the trees by illmotivated teachers who see their jobs as missionary – that is, because of their determination to empower such children - rather than being employed by the government. The secondary school teachers that are supposed to impart knowledge to students are not intellectually and academically equipped to handle the subjects they teach. Besides, their morale is low because they are poorly paid too.

Tertiary institutions which should be adept in research have literally become glorified secondary schools.

Government refused to provide facilities that will aid research

programmes in our universities, leading to the crass mediocrity being displayed by the products.

How else could a nation decline?

To worsen the situation, government, which is quick in calling the striking lecturers to a roundtable and reaching agreement on improved welfare packages as well as infrastructure, frustrates the lecturers’ effort to enthrone effective culture of learning by reneging on its promise. All the best brains in our universities have left in droves for countries where the grass is greener.

Our neighbours like Ghana and Benin Republic have many Nigerian students trooping in for study. These are the consequences of the planlessness of the education sector.

There is no gainsaying the fact that lecturers’ strike affects the families of indigent students. Many families are forced to go borrowing to offset the lost time that is caused by the

industrial action. Some parents groan over the unending delay in the graduation of their children.

It is for this reason the government must be charged to take education seriously. Our tertiary institutions should be provided with adequate funding to compete with world-class universities in the United Kingdom, the United States and other developed countries. In addition, all the agreements reached in respect of salaries of university teachers must be respected. Finally, as the private universities are excelling and performing today, the Federal and state governments should take a cue from them and improve the institutions in their domains because not all parents can afford to put their children in private universities.

Zeenat, 400-Level Mass Comm., BUK

An afternoon with Editor of editors He spoke on vision, values and leadership - the theme of this year’s campus journalists’ workshop. Like virus, the substance of the speech infected my system. He held every student in the hall spellbound. I felt the impact and my orientation of what journalism and life entail changed.

He made us to understand that despite the parlous state of affairs in Nigeria, we could still stand up to the ethics of journalism which include objectivity, truth and fairness.

I realised that the first thing I would need as a budding journalist is sound education. Despite the

challenges inherent in the profession, I realise that my visions and values are things that must distinguish me from others.

I also understood that journalism brings greatness to people.

Majority of our founding fathers that fought for Nigeria’s independence were journalists. Some words of wisdom which he passed across to us which included; before you seek to impress others, seek first to impress yourself; life will give you those things which you have courage to demand; let your dream never be small, dream beyond limitation; even when you are doing it wrong, it is

no reason to be discouraged, changed my orientation about lots of things.

I discovered that vision is the pictorial image of where I want to be and values are things that take me there. He is a man of high reputation, who I hold in high esteem. He is Mr Debo Adesina, Editor of The Guardian, who I will always remember as a mentor. I have been to several workshops but none has made much impact on me the way Adesina’s speech did. Sir, you made my day that afternoon.

Hope, recently finished from Mass Comm., UNIJOS

By Hope Ofobike hopeofobike@yahoo.com

Safety, security: A collective responsibility

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AFETY and security can be defined as being protected from harm or the state of not being dangerous and freedom from danger or worry respectively. From these definitions, one can easily infer that safety and security are interrelated and may arguably have the same meaning. However, safety and security can be said to work hand in hand, as safety consciousness leads to a state of security just as adequate security measures guarantees safety.

In all parts of the world, constant efforts are made to improve safety standards at home, workplace and the society at large. In Nigeria, there are indications that some of the measures put in place to ensure safety and security may not have produced the desired results. There are serious

By Udoka Iyoke udokaiyoke@yahoo.com

cases of armed robbery, kidnapping, killing and suicide bombings which were hitherto regarded as almost impossible in a country like Nigeria. There is no doubt that poor safety consciousness, inadequate security awareness, non-challant attitude of most Nigerians towards security related issues, and obvious shortfalls of our security agencies are responsible for the increased crime rate in the country.

The inability of our security strategy and plans to stand the thirst of time and raise a standard against the degree of sophistication of the modern day crime and terrorism also exacerbate the situation. These con-

tributed in making our society very porous and favorable for criminals and terrorists to perform their wicked acts. Every country and state has its own seasonal security and safety threat peculiarities. Hence, there is the need to constantly review her primary and secondary policies and plans respectively.

Since secondary security and safety plans require facts that are gotten from general security survey, articulate documentary of investigations and reports, with due consideration for the nature of the terrain, location, size, threats, and resources available(human and material), and other important data. It becomes almost impossible to design such a plan without the cooperation of the stakeholders. For instance, it is the

responsibility of the government to provide the enabling environment and the resources. The private sector has to provide reasonable support services while the ordinary Nigerian cooperates with the security agencies during investigations. He or she should be willing to give reasonable information to the security agencies.

The person should as a matter of expediency report accidents, incidents, and any other suspicious activity within his neighborhood to the security agencies.

Furthermore, staffs and operating personnel in every establishment should be sensitized on the need to effectively manage information both within and outside as improper information management may foil security plans. Fi-

Epoke completes the calendar

By Emmanuel Shebbs shesehnky@yahoo.com

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T was December, 2010 that Prof James Epoke became the ViceChancellor (VC) of the University of Calabar (UNICAL). He has spent one year in office. The academic community was happy that Prof Epoke was appointed VC to succeed Prof Bassey Asuquo.

Prof Epoke was the Dean of Faculty of Allied Medical Sciences before his

appointment. A position he attained through hard work in the administrative ladder of the faculty.

When he assumed office as the VC, Prof Epoke’s first point of call was the inauguration of the Students Union Government (SUG) Executive Council on December 2, 2010. That was his first time he addressed the students. While doing this, he promised to restructure the SUG and also bequeath an environment that would be student-friendly so as to promote academic enhancement.

On a fact-finding mission, the VC embarked on a tour round the faculties and departments in the school. In a critical analysis, Prof Epoke came up with a bulk development plan. He introduced the N10,000 “Development Levy”, of which students questioned. He was able to convince everyone including the parents that the funds would be used to develop the university.

Within the first two weeks of Epoke’s assumption, tragedy struck. A student was shot behind

the school library. The incident triggered a red security alert within the campus. But the security beef up would not discourage the criminal minded persons. In no time, another student was shot at the back of Hall 4, a student hostel, on July 26, 2011 and died.

A month later, another student was shot, almost at the same point behind Hall 4. This time, the students took to the streets with a protest which turned awry along the line. Property worth millions of Naira was damaged. Some people insisted the riot was unconnected with development levy, some say it was the death of students that triggered the uprising.

Prof. Epoke quickly discovered the lacuna in the security network, and like Moses in the Bible, he took the bull by the horn. He appointed an Acting Chief Security Officer to take over from Captain Michael Okon, ex-CSO. The event shocked many who saw the sudden change as a step in the right direction. For more than three months now, the

nally, the government and relevant agencies should encourage and build confidence in the masses to provide information and report incidents. This can be achieved by releasing emergency and security hotlines and if possible make such calls to be tariff-free. They should also make genuine efforts to guarantee the confidentiality of the informants. The emergency management agencies should also step-up and be at alert so as to reduce the extent of losses in event of fatal occurrence.

We must all join hands to reduce crime to its barest minimum. Nigeria is the only country we can truly call our own. Let us preserve it.

Udoka, is a corps member, NYSC Benin The students should also be carried along irrespective of tribe, class or connection. It is advisable that Prof. Epoke watches out for misleading and sentimental advices of some “loyalists” who may flock around him to ‘fight’ for their own stomach. How will he know them?

These are “advisers” who may cluster around him with the intension to push their parochial interests.

Also, the students should be given leeway to channel their suggestions and dissatisfactions, not necessarily through the SUG, the press or the notice boards. Suggestion boxes or bulk SMS straight to the VC could do this task. If explored, the media can help to an extent in information dissemination between the management and the students.

We must make things better and more civilised because development is a product of synergy and unison.

Bravo, Prof James Epoke. Long live UNICAL, long live Cross River State, long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

students have been at home. The school is under tight security check.

Security gadgets have been installed and the security officers seem prepared to tackle challenge of policing the institution.

The students are counting days, waiting for January6, 2012 to resume after the unfortunate incident that sent them home.

Upon resumption, the hurtful fine of N10,000 placed on each student’s head must be paid. Students who manage to pay regular school fee may find it difficult to remit the said amount into the school account. This should be a lesson for us students that violent does not pay, no matter the grievances. Now, the SUG under the Anthony Amawu has been disbanded, who laughed last?

All these happened within 365 days but the VC still has more 1000 days ahead. But then, if Prof Epoke must bequeath a pace-setting administration, he must lay the foundation for administration as Emmanuel, 400-Level Political collective responsibility in UNICAL. Science, UNICAL

THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2011

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CAMPUS LIFE

Entrepreneurship in Nigerian campus (2)

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NTREPRENEURSHIP is the act of being an entrepreneur, which can be defined as “one who undertakes innovations, finance and business acumen in an effort to transform innovations into economic goods”.

Bearing this in mind, the student is expected to be resourceful, quick thinking and possess an ability to adapt to changing situations. The school campus can be an avenue to show character, hard work and identity Entrepreneurial activities are substantially different depending on the type of organization and creativity involved. Entrepreneurship ranges in scale from solo projects (even involving the entrepreneur only part-time) to major undertakings creating many job opportunities. It all begins with a well nurtured dream and turning that passion into reality Did you know that there are several small businesses an undergraduate of Nigerian universities can do without disrupting their studies? Here are some practical solutions and low cost businesses you can start as a campus student. Starting any of these businesses will not only supplement your earnings as an undergraduate but serve as an important experience preparing you for life beyond school especially when you get a job in corporate Nigeria.

Hair braiding: Research shows that female students braid their hairs few weeks before exams, which may take them throughout the end of the semester. You can acquire this skill and make quick cash during the ‘season’. This is one guaranteed way to make money as a campus student.

Repairs of cell phones and laptops: Taking time off during the semester break to acquire skills in fixing devices like cell phones, chargers, desktop computers and laptops will enable you to keep money in your pocket while in campus. This business acumen can later be harnessed outside the walls of the university with good returns on investment (time used in learning) Graphics design: From student associations to Christian fellowships, small businesses and others, there is always a demand for graphics (design) and printing services. Master key software like Corel draw and adobe Photoshop and get in the business of offering your design skills for sale. Do you design everything from flyers to posters, banners, brochures, newsletters, magazines?

This is one guaranteed way to make money as a campus student.

Sale of bulk SMS: Today’s Nigeria is mobile. It’s the fastest and easiest form of communication and transmission of information to diverse categories of people anywhere.

Short messaging is not only fast but cheap

On and Off Campus

By Afam Bill 07038818735 Heute2k1@yahoo.com

and guarantees almost a 100% that a recipient will read the message. You can sell bulk SMS credits to individuals, organizations like churches, student union executives, businesses looking to create awareness about their products and services. Think outside the campus! This is a very reliable way for a campus student to make money conveniently without even interrupting his studies.

Web design: This is one skill that is constantly guaranteed to earn you income, again and again and again. You can help individuals, businesses, associations etc design their websites or blogs for a fee. Master latest web design tools like cold fusion and become a web design professional highly sought after within and outside campus. You can also train other students in web design.

Greeting cards: You can design and sell handmade greeting cards, uniquely crafted in and around campus. Learn to do it and market your products and you will make money from it.

Entertainment: Entertainment is today a major money spinner for young people with hot talents. If you got the talent to sing, make people laugh or showcase mind bugging dance moves, then you can start making cool money from doing it. Look out for opportunities to showcase your talent such as reality shows, dance contests, open mic contests, parties, campus events and programs. The big names in the industry like Alli Baba, Tee A, basket mouth-just to mention a few-started this way.

Private home tutor: If you have a flair for imparting knowledge to others, then this service is very suitable for you. You can set up a private tutoring business catering to children of middle class to wealthy children.

You provide them the convenience of learning from the comfort of their homes and helping them prepare for exams such as UME, WAEC, SSCE and GCE You can develop that skill by organizing tutorials for your roommates/course mates in campus.

Case studies reveal that 5 out of 10 persons who had tried this out became orators and good public speakers after their tertiary days. This is guaranteed to earn you good money.

In summation, starting a business in itself can be a daunting task but it yield rewards.

The secret part to being a successful entrepreneur is to make sure nobody knows how hard you have to work to do it so well. Enjoy what you are doing and be committed 100%

By Solomon Izekor 08061522600

•Students with Dashen during the visit

Students visit Plateau Commissioner

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XECUTIVES of the Association of Mass Communication Students (AMCOMS) University of Jos Chapter (UNIJOS) last Friday paid a courtesy call on the Plateau State Commissioner of Education, Nanle Dashen.

President of the student body who led the delegation, Richards Maiwada, said the call was to identify with the laudable achievements of the commissioner within the short period of time.

Maiwada further intimated him on the challenges faced by the association, “In our bid to leave a lasting legacy, we are calling on you in your position as the commissioner of education, to look into our plight as your children. Our departmental library is in shambles, we need a student bus and our television studio is yet to begin operation due to lack of equipments.

Responding, Dashen, while commending the students for the visit, said he was impressed with the visit as they served as the image makers of the institution through their chosen course of study.

According to him, “you cannot overemphasize the role communication has come to play in the society as it bridges the gap between the high and mighty and the low

From Esther Mark

UNIJOS

and unheard. He, therefore, urged them not to relent in their effort by underrating their status as students and media professionals in the making as they would make rights the wrongs done by professionals in the field.

He said: “I was overwhelmed by the sincerity of the appeal; I would definitely look into your call since it has to do with human capacity and intellectual development that would benefit all.”

Meanwhile, the student body has held its first congress at the permanent site of the university. The congress had students from all levels of the department. Issues raised were the welfare of the students, the departmental identity card production in progress and the election and subsequent appointment of persons into committees for the departmental library and the Women in Media workshop to hold annually.

Other issues discussed were the orientation and welcome special programme for new students and the dress code emphasis where students were urged to abide by the tenets of the department.

Varsity inducts pharmacists

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HE University of Jos has inducted 62 new pharmacists into the Pharmaceutical Council of Nigeria (PCN) with a call on them to portray their Alma mater in a good light.

The occasion, which was held at the multipurpose hall of the university, saw high influx of dignitaries from all works of life.

Delivering the welcome address, the Dean, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Prof John Aguiyi, said the faculty would continue to contribute its quota to the building of the nations’ health sector and explained that insufficient manpower and other logistics could hamper such dream and therefore called on the alumni of the faculty and other well meaning Nigerians to do their best in uplifting the department.

While inducting the pharmacists, the registrar, Pharmaceutical Council of Nigeria, Ahmed Mora, charged them to anchor their practice on humility, honesty and the fear of God. Climax of the event was the presentation

From Esther Mark UNIJOS

of the 62 graduants to the registrar, for the swearing in and oath taking. This was done amidst jubilation and cheers from parents of the graduants.

Chairman of the planning committee, Dr. Wannang Noel, told the parents and well wishers that “we are today celebrating another proof of excellence. These inducted pharmacists have all gone through the same rigorous training; all took the same course and today, are reaping the dividends of hard labour” Delivering his valedictory message, the best graduating student n, Emmanuel Onyekachi, said: “We got the most and best training from this first class rated pharmaceutical faculty and now is the time for us to prove it by being noble ambassadors of the faculty.”

Emmanuel, who was awarded the best graduating student, had a CGPA of 4.59 and got N50,000 from a parent who was proud of his achievement.

•The Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro Students’ Union executive members after their orientation PHOTO: ADEGUNLE OLUGBAMILA last Wednesday.

THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2011

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EDUCATION

Ilaro Poly admits 2,772 of 33,686 applicants

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F the 33,686 candidates who applied for the diploma (ND) and Higher National Diploma (HND) programmes of the Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro, Ogun State, for the 2011/2012 academic session, 2, 772 (8.3 per cent) were admitted, the Rector, Dr Raheem Adisa, has said.

Adisa attributed the development to the carrying capacity of the 32-year-old institution as set out by its regulatory body, the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE).

To increase students’ access, Adisa said the institution would introduce new programmes in its School of Applied Science without compromising quality and the carrying capacity by sustaining the NBTE 70:30 ratio for technology and nontechnology students. He listed some of the programmes to include ND and HND in Agricultural Science, Nutrition Dietetics, Mass Communication, Agric Engineering and Chemical Engineering.

The institution, Adisa said, hopes to achieve this by leveraging on its Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and other facilities, employment of more qualified manpower and introduction of elibrary.

“To face the challenges of access, we are increasing capacity with relative ease of leveraging on ICTdriven teaching and research. To this end, ICT infrastructure on campus has been extensively expanded with the establishment of two additional centres and upgrading of the multimedia centre with video conferencing facilities. More com-

N100m hostel for Sokoto varsity

By Adegunle Olugbamila

puters have been deployed for the teaching of ICT-based courses in all departments. Also, automation of the library operation is ongoing to facilitate the deployment of e-learning,” he said.

Addressing the new students, Adisa urged them to abhor anti-social activities and face their studies.

“The culture of good conduct prevails in this polytechnic. This is the reason why this institution has not suffered any academic disruption in the last six academic sessions.

Our calendar has been stable. What I am saying at this matriculation, therefore, is just to reiterate the culture of discipline we have on ground already. In our students’

T

He also assured that work had reached advanced stage on the Entrepreneurship Development Centre of the polytechnic which is scheduled to take off next year.

‘To face the challenges of access, we are increasing capacity with relative ease of leveraging on ICT- driven teaching and research. To this end, ICT infrastructure on campus has been extensively expanded with the establishment of two additional centres’

•Some of the matriculating students during the oath taking

Achievers gets ICAN’s accreditation

From Adamu Suleiman, Sokoto

HE Kano State government is to build a N100 million students’ hostel for the Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto (UDUS).

The project, is in fulfilment of the goverment’s pledge to the Vice-Chancellor, Prof Riskuwa Arabo Shehu, who visited Kano two months ago for help.

The hostel, is expected to accommodate about 268 to 350 students.

The Commissioner for Information, Internal Affairs, Youths, Sports and Culture, Dr Umar Farouk Jibrin, said in Sokoto that Kano State was ready to assist the university in its drive to provide quality education.

He said the administration of Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso was appreciative of the strides of the university in sustaining academic excellence.

A member of the delegation, Aminu Dabo, an architect, presented the design of the hostel to Shehu. He said that the structure would be a two-storey building with modern facilities and a common room.

If completed, the hostel will accommodate six to eight students in a room, he said, adding: “Our team of engineers will soon be on ground to assess the site in order to know what is actually needed.’’

Shehu, who led the delegation to the site for the hostel, said the university had in the past, received pledges, some of which were not fulfilled.

He added:“But, we are convinced that Kwankwaso’s government will stand by its words and see to the commencement and completion of the edifice within the earliest possible time.”

handbook, we have our code of ethics. You can see our students comport themselves in a civilised manner; they are well dressed and these are some practices they are already used to,” he said.

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HE Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) and the Medical

Laboratory Science Council of Nigeria (MLSCN) have accredited the Accounting and Medical Laboratory Science programmes of the Achievers University, Owo, Ondo State.

The bodies conveyed the message in separate letters to the university. ICAN’s letter was signed by the Assistant Director, Students’Affairs, Mr O. E. Babatunde, while the Registrar/ Chief Executive Officer, Prof A. O. Emeribe, signed on behalf of the Governing Board of MLSCN.

ICAN’s four-man team, led by Dr Yinka Adenikinju, was in the university between August 23 and 25, while the MLSCN team came between July 13 and 16.

The implication of ICAN’s accreditation is that graduates of the school’s Accounting programme are exempted from Foundation and Intermediate stages of ICAN exams. They will only take PE I and PE II examinations.

Also, with the MLSCN’s endorsement, Medical Laboratory Science students are qualified to write MLSCN-moderated examinations, and, upon graduation, will be issued licensces that would allow

them practise as biomedical scientists in Nigeria and abroad.

The Vice-Chancellor, Prof Adebayo Odebiyi, who broke the good news, congratulated the staff and students, pledging the university’s commitment to excellence.

In September, the two courses were among the programmes accredited by the National Universities Commission (NUC) during an exercise conducted in August. The other programmes accredited are Business Administration, Economics, Industrial Chemistry, Biochemistry, Microbiology and Computer and Information System.

•Dr. Shekarau Angyu Masa Ibi Kuryo II, Chancellor Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO); Prof Chigozie Asiabaka, Vice-Chancellor; Akwa Ibom State Governor, Godswill Akpabio and Education Minister, Prof.

Ruqayyatu Rufa’i, during the 24th Convocation of the university in Owerri, Imo State.

AAUA FILE VC seeks pact with Indiana varsity ADEKUNLE Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA) has begun collaboration talks with Indiana University Purdue University, Indianapolis (IUPU), United States, to facilitate exchange programmes between the two institutions.

The Vice-Chancellor, Prof Femi Mimiko, requested for collaboration on student/staff exchange and library resource.

Mimiko, who highlighted the achievements of the university, particularly in infrastructural development and quality of curriculumm said AAUA had signed Memoranda of Understanding with four foreign universities.

He said: “The proposed MoU with IUPU would further strengthen our effort towards internationalisation of the university.”

Prof Bessie House-Soremekun, who led a team from IUPU, said: “We will be delighted to work with Adekunle Ajasin University under the MoU. We are not going to sign on behalf of our university but we will be able to advocate for the development of the MoU. “We are going to ensure that we partner with your university in the areas of entrepreneurship development, student exchange and library resource.”

Other areas of collaboration covered during the talks included deepening of AAUA curricula and admission of AAUA students and staff for degree and postgraduate programmes at IUPU.

Don advocates entrepreneurship THE Executive Director, Centre for Global Entrepreneurship and Sustainable Development of the Indiana University Purdue University, Indianapolis, US, Prof Bessie House-Soremekun, has said a paradigm shift to entrepreneurship was needed to make positive change in the society.

She spoke at a seminar on “Entrepreneurship education in the USA – The African-American perspective” organised by the AAUA Centre for Entrepreneurship Development, last week.

Prof House-Soremekun said: “For millions of global citizens, becoming an entrepreneur will involve a major paradigm shift. It is a shift they must make, however, to effectuate a positive change in their overall material condition in society.”

She advised all tiers of government to provide enabling environment and legislation that would encourage entrepreneurship and lending by banks, saying that was the surest way to move entrepreneurship from subsistence level to large-scale and sustainable level.

She also said: “The National Center for Entrepreneurship (NCE) will realise its mission by effectuating a major paradigm shift in this country and the world which helps people to realise the importance of making the transition from being employees to becoming employers and establish new business ventures.”

Prof. Soremekun, who eulogised the people-oriented policy of the Ondo State Governor, Dr. Olusegun Mimiko, urged government to continue to place premium on entrepreneurship by investing largely in it.

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THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2011

EDUCATION IDAH POLY FILE Poly committed to Vision 20: 2020 THE Federal Polytechnic, Idah, Benue State, is committed to the realisation of the Vision 20:2020, its Rector, Mr Matthew Akpala, has said.

He spoke while presenting a keynote address at a national conference organised by the polytechnic’s chapter of the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP).

Akpata said the theme of the conference – “Nigeria’s Vision 20:2020 and the transformation agenda: prognosis for action” – was timely in view of the government’s efforts to transform the socio-economic wellbeing of the citizenry.

Workshop for librarians A TWO-WEEK workshop for the polytechnic’s library workers has begun.

The workshop, facilitated by JT Resources Limited, an Ibadanbased ICT firm, and sponsored by the Education Trust Fund (ETF), is to train the staff in automated library services.

The librarians are being trained to use a software known as Eagle soft and Library Information, which enables the library to be accessed from anywhere in the world.

Declaring the workshop open, the Rector, Mr Matthew Akpata, assured participants that the management would not relent in its efforts to computerise the library.

In his speech, the Polytechnic Librarian, Mr Joseph Opaleke, thanked ETF for its continued support to the development of the Polytechnic library.

SCHOLARSHIP APPROACHING DEADLINES How to Apply: Online Graduate Scholarship in Physical Education for Japanese and International students Enrolled in College, Japan 2012 Study Subject(s):Physical Education Course Level:Graduate Scholarship Provider: Yonex Sports Foundation Scholarship can be taken at: Japan Eligibility: (1) high school credential, enrolled in college or graduate students majoring in physical education, etc. (including international students) and students or to undertake sports, vibrant with a bright and prosperous through sports contribute to society, and how that other half.

(2) Criteria 1. The major sports events, to have recognised the competence of both oneself and others.

2. It aims to promote sports for youth leaders.

3. That meets the above criteria for one or two foreign students.

4. Age of the student shall be under 30 years old at the time of application.

Scholarship Open for International Students: Yes Scholarship Description: The scholarship application form salary, School Principal or Dean of student recommendation letters, testimonials from leaders (free format) Please attach the applicant. 24 fiscal year 2000 (1 year from April 1, 2012), such as scholarship grant application guidelines are as follows.

How to Apply: Post Scholarship Application Deadline: December 31, 2011 Bachelor Scholarship Programme at BI Norwegian Business School, Norway Bachelor Scholarship in Business Administration and Shipping Management at BI Norwegian Business School, Norway 2012 Study Subject(s):Business Administration, Shipping Management Course Level:Bachelor Scholarship Provider: BI Norwegian Business School Scholarship can be taken at: Norway Eligibility: • The bachelor scholarships are intended for non-norwegian applicants not residing in norway, and cover one-third of the tuition fee for each year of the programme. Total value: approximately noK 60,000.

• a. wilhelmsen foundation scholarship programme The a. wilhelmsen foundation scholarship programme provides a two-year scholarship valued at noK 150,000 per year, for up to two students each year.

• scholarships are also available for excellent candidates from the bachelor of shipping management programme.

-The scholarships consist of a full tuition fee waiver for the first year of the programme (value noK 65,200) and a 50 % tuition fee waiver for the

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- The 50% tuition fee waiver for the second and third year is contingent on above average academic performance in the first , and respectively the second year of the programme Scholarship Open for International Students: Yes Scholarship Description: The bachelor of business administration programme at bI norwegian business school will give you a taste of what globalisation and internationalisation are all about: a taste with a scandinavian favour, which will prepare you thoroughly for a career in international business or further postgraduate studies. The bachelor of shipping management programme at bI norwegian business school will introduce you to an exciting and globalised industry: the shipping Industry. norway is one of the leading shipping nations in the world and bI has a long tradition of teaching and doing research in the shipping area.

How to Apply: Online, Post Scholarship Application Deadline: April 15, 2012 Italy – 40 MSc Bocconi Scholarship for International Graduate Student at Bocconi University, Italy in 2012 Bocconi University offers Master of Science Scholarship for International Student, Italy 2012 Study Subject(s):Science Course Level:Master’s Scholarship Provider: Bocconi University Scholarship can be taken at: Italy Eligibility: - Non-Italian citizenship; - Non-Italian residence; - A non-Italian Undergraduate degree earned abroad or in Italy; - Admission granted for the first year of a Bocconi Master of Science program in the a.y. 2012- 2013 (please note that the application must be submitted before admission: this requirement will be considered only at a later stage) Scholarship Open for International Students: Yes Scholarship Description: Bocconi University offers up to 40 need-based scholarships to international students enrolling in a Master of Science Program at Bocconi. The awarding of the scholarship also takes into consideration academic performances of the students.The Scholarship consists of full tuition waiver worth approximately •11.000 per year for a maximum of 2 academic years. The renewal of the scholarship is subject to meeting merit criteria. Scholarship applications must be submitted by the same deadline as that of Bocconi on-line admission’s application as stated below.

How to Apply: Post Scholarship Application Deadline: 1 st round-10/01/2012, 2 nd round – 10/02/2012, 3 rd round – 10/03/2012 , 4 th round – 05/04/2012, 5 th round -10/05/2012

NBTE probes graft allegations at poly

T

HE Akanu Ibiam Federal Polytechnic, Unwana, Ebonyi State is being rocked by allegations of corruption. The National Board for technical Education (NBTE) has sent its AntiCorruption and Transparency Monitoring Unit (ACTU) to the institution to investigate the allegation.

During a meeting with the polytechnic management and the local branch of ACTU, the Chairman of ACTU-NATE Alhaji Jauro Jibrin praised the institution for establishing an effective and functional ACTU. The team leader said: “Our visit to the institution was as a result of NBTE’s Executive Secretary’s concern about the numerous corruption allegations, many of which are unsubstantiated and frivolous, but which nevertheless were impacting negatively on the image of the polytechnic sector.”

He appealed to the management

From Ogbonnaya Obinna, Abakaliki

to tackle the challenges facing the chapter of the ACTU which include office accommodation and equipment, funding and sitting allowances for members as stipulated in the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC)’s standing order and operational guidelines of ACTU in ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs).

The chairman, who was in the polytechnic as a leader of the compliance, monitoring and evaluation team (CME) that comprises representatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and ICPC, enjoined the management to look into some of the challenges and constraints of ACTU in the institution.

The Rector of the Polytechnic, Prof Francis Otunta, assured the visiting team of his co-operation as it is in his interest and the interest of the management to have an effective ACTU in place.

•From left: Mofiyinfoluwa Okupe (Year 8), Yimika Osusanya (Year 11) and Ayomide Tubi (Year 12) bagged tuition and boarding scholarships of Olashore International School, Iloko-Ijesa, Osun State for academic execellence during the School’s Speech and Prizegiving Day

Kano launches youth empowerment initiative

T

HE Kano State Government has established a Youth Empowerment Initiative (YEI).

It has launched a website where eligible youths can register online, to enable the government to identify their needs in order to solve them.

The Secretary to the State Government, Mr Rabiú Suleiman Bichi, told The Nation in Kano, that the move is in line with the human development agenda of Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso’s administration.

From Kolade Adeyemi, Kano

Bichi said the agency, headed by Col. Yakubu Bako (rtd), a former military administrator of Akwa Ibom State, is to register eligible youths, who have concluded their secondary school education with relevant credentials that would enable them enrol in tertiary institutions of their choice.

He said the aim is to collect and collate data about youths across the 44 local government areas of the state into a data bank, known as

Kano State Electronic Data System, to enable the government make appropriate plans for them.

He said: “We instructed the youth to register, and about 116,341 of them have done so manually, but this is taking a lot of time, and we find out that some people are unable to come and register because most of them live in the hinterland.

They can register in their Local Government Area or even on their mobile phones just as you do with NECO and WAEC. “With this, we would know those

we can employ and give admission to, right from their ward levels to the polling units. We have been able to give about 1,000 people and another set of 1,000 is being expected to be employed. Within two months, we were able to organise them and they are now gainfully employed. If we have this data base, we do not need to go and look for whom to employ or give admission.”

Bichi added:“That is why we introduced the online registration, so that wherever you are anywhere in the country or all over the world, you

can register by buying a scratch card of just N250 without coming to Kano city.

“Already, we have secured admission for 552 candidates in some tertiary institutions across the country, and we are still pushing for more admissions.”

He said the registration also covers those who are gainfully employed or studying in institutions of higher learning, adding: “When there are job openings, the government would consider the eligible ones, who had already registered online.”

THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2011

39

EDUCATION

Fashola to restore alma mater’s glory

F

OR staff and student’s of Birch Freeman High School, Mushin Lagos, packing of feaces from their classrooms and premises is now a thing of the past, thanks to Governor Babatunde Fashola.

Fashola, an old boy, has promised to eject trespassers on the school land and address the drainage problem.

He spoke at the inauguration last Tuesday of a school building constructed and furnished by the government.

Beside, the three-storey, 21-classroom block, Fashola said the government would end the perennial flooding of the school situated at the lowest point in the Idi-Oro area of Mushin. He said it is part of his contribution to restoring the school glory.

“With partnership of the old boys, government is doing this. Our work here is not finished. There is still the drainage issue to resolve.

It will require us to recover every acre of land that belongs to the school. Let me use this to inform all squatters that their trespass ends today.This school will be dedicated to Rev T.A. Ojo, our dear principal,” he said.

The mega classroom structure, which also houses staff rooms, a principal’s office, science laboratories, ICT room, toilets on each floor and a 450-capacity school hall, is a big boost for the 52-year-old school.

It is the second school structure of its kind constructed by the government, using the contractor, Deux Project Ltd. The first is at Agidingbi Grammar School, Ikeja. A third one is under construction at Gaskiya College, Ijora, Badiya.

Vice Principal of Birch Freeman Senior High School Mrs Abosede

By Kofoworola Belo-Osagie

Bamgbose said she was happy about the new facilities which have greatly improved the teaching and learning environment. She said in the past, teachers and pupils have had to contend with flood waters, sometimes reaching up to the knees, which interrupted school work during the rainy season. They have also had to clean up mess created by miscreants who had easy access to the rundown classroom buildings they occupied because the school has no fence.

“This is one of the best things one can experience. With this new structure, this school is still going to produce better citizens. I was posted here in 1996. This place gets water logged during the rains to the extent that any teacher posted here would cry, saying, ‘who did I offend?’ This environment is so porous. You may be teaching and you see outsiders hawking. Miscreants excrete in the classrooms.

When we come to school, we have to sweep away cigarette butts and Indian hemp wrappings. Fencing the school will keep away miscreants. The environment pollutes the students. With a gate, late coming will be eliminated and miscreants kept out” she said.

John Jegede, an SS1 pupil underscored the importance of fencing the school. He said currently, because there is no fence, there are some pupils called 9 to 11 because they come to school by 9am and leave by 11am.

“There are some pupils, we call them 9-11 School Two. Because there is no fence, they don’t stay in schoo,” he said.

For President of the Birch Free-

•The new school building

man Old Boys’ Association (BIFOBA), Mr Feyi Dinyo, the state government’s intervention marks an end to the years of neglect the school has suffered. He added that Fashola’s assurance that churches and others that have erected buildings on the school’s land would be ejected to allow for drainage of the land and perimeter fencing, would not only keep the boys in school, but enhance security of the multimillion naira building and facilities.

He said: “This is something we have been waiting for for years and we thank God it has come. Because of the topography of this area, the

soil formation is bad. This is the lowest place so all the water from surroundings comes here. To put a building here is expensive and successive governments refused to do it. So we are glad it has been done. “ Dinyo assured of the old boys’ cooperation in restoring the fortunes of the school. He said plans are in the pipeline to power the new school building with solar energy, build a befitting multipurpose school hall and erect a magnificent school gate.

Dr Walter Olatunde, Project Director, Deux Project, and an old boy of Birch Freeman, said as part of

the company’s contribution, the Microsoft IT Academy will offer Microsoft Office curriculum in the school. To this end, the teachers and pupils will be trained and provided with relevant IT equipment.

“Deux Project Limited, in partnership with Microsoft and its local support group, is providing laptops with Microsoft academy software and a training package for the Birch Freeman High School.

The programme provides educators with tools they need to effectively train students on Microsoft technologies, prepare students for the global economy, and then create a skilled community,” he said.

Kwara governor, other tackle declining interest in literature

G

OVERNOR AbdulFatah Ahmed of Kwara State has bemoaned the declining interest in Literature in English by secondary school authorities and pupils.

Ahmed spoke in Malete at a conference on literature in Northern Nigeria, organised by the Kwara State University (KWASU) in conjunction with Bayero University, Kano (BUK).

The theme of the conference was

From Adekunle Jimoh, Ilorin

Women in literature and film in Northern Nigeria.

The governor, represented by the Commissioner for Education and Human Capital Development, Alhaji Mohammed Raji, noted that Literature is going into extinction, arguing that most schools had deemphasised its teaching.

He, urged participants to “recommend friendly and cultural-

oriented books for students of literature.”

The former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ilorin (UNILORIN), Prof Shuaib AbdulRaheem, who chaired the occasion, said the dangers confronting literary works in the North are still inherent.

KWASU Vice-Chancellor, Prof AbdulRasheed Na’Allah said, the conference would, henceforth, be rotated between the institution and

BUK, adding that “today in Northern Nigeria men and women have done a lot of work on literary writings.”

Presenting one of the lead papers, former Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Nasarawa State University Prof Zaynab Alkali said most women’s writings have been classified as feminist literature.

The author of Stillborn entitled her paper: “Gender politics and sexual dynamics: Imaging man in

African women’s writing: The quest for identity and integrity.”

She said: “Whether the women subscribe to it or not is not the issue here. The issue is why the image of man becomes a dominant feature, and comes across strong in African women’s writing. Could it not be that the male dominance in African feminist literature is a direct response to the imaging of woman by male writers in African literature?”

Foundation raises funds for youth centre

A

•Mr Femi Akintunde (right), Chairman at the Inter-House Sports Competition of Omotayo College, Ogijo, Ogun State, presenting the third place trophy to Bill Gates House Captains Peace Udoh and Ayodeji Alabi. With them is Mr Tayo Panubi, chairman of the college.

NON-GOVERNMENTAL organisation (NGO), the Ovie Brume Foundation (OBF), has organised a bazaar to raise funds for its youth centre.

The event, held at Ovie Brume Youth Centre in Victoria Island, Lagos, served as a platform to showcase some of the handiworks of its students.

OBF’s Executive Secretary Mrs Ofovwe Aig-Imoukhuede, said the centre trains students in skills acquisition as well as mathematics, literacy and computer studies, exam preparation classes and others, to prepare them for entrepreneurial endeavours.

“The aim is to foster creativity and entrepreneurial skills, thereby giving them skills that they can use later in life,” she said.

On the criteria for admitting students, Mrs Aig-Imokhuede, said the centre draws participating students from public schools and children from less-privileged backgrounds.

She said the foundation decided

By Pascal Okezu

to intervene having noticed the “great deficiency and lack of care in our public school system” and sought to address it with its after school programmes to help supplement the one they receive in school.

Speaking at the event, one of the students, Master Abubakar Sodiq, said attending the center has been a plus for him.

“The instructors are very good.

They make you understand what you are being taught at school,” he said.

Another beneficiary, Ahmed Nasir, who was a pioneer student of the foundation, said that the center helps unlock the hidden talents in the students.

The foundation was established in 2003 in memory of Mr Ovierhire Adeyemi Kesiena Brume, who was committed to youth development.

The foundation plans to build a library and resource centre with funds raised at the bazaar.

40

THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2011

EDUCATION

Women seek return of mission schools

C

HRISTIAN Women under the auspices of the TEKAN Women General Assembly have called on the 19 northern states to return mission schools to their owners.

In a communiqué issued at the end of their 37th General Assembly meeting in Kaduna, the

From Tony Akowe, Kaduna

women also condemned the insecurity and excessive use of arms.

The leader of the group, Mrs Naomi Mankilik, said the return of mission schools would be in the interest of the youths and chil-

dren yet unborn. She praised the Plateau and Taraba state governments for taking steps to return such schools to their owners.

The group also expressed concern over the falling moral standard in schools and kicked against discriminatory admission into tertiary institutions.

•Majiyagbe (fourth from right) cuts his 600 days in office cake with the support of government funtionaries and retirees

Education Authority donates club uniforms

A

GEGE Local Government Education Authority (LGEA) in Lagos State has commemorated its first Education Week.

Its Education Secretary, Mr Olalekan Majiyagbe, said the activities were to further entrench the tradition of excellence in the LGEA known for its trail blazing efforts.

He explained that the concept of involving members of the host communities in the affairs of schools in their area through the SBMC is to get them to partner with government in ensuring that schools run properly.

He told the SBMC leaders to assist in protecting school property from theft/vandalism, clearing refuse and bushes, monitoring the activities of the pupils during school hours, among others.

The Education Secretary said

By Kofoworola Belo-Osagie

clusters found to have been outstanding would receive awards, while members holding leadership positions who have not pulled their weight would be relieved of such posts.

“We are not asking you to just build infrastructure but to meet the small needs of schools.

Constant meetings and mobilising community support are some of the best achievements. We are going to give awards to the best SBMC. If your chairman is not performing, you have to speak up so we relieve such people of their duties. Remove them and put others that are ready to work. You make a position important through quality service. There is no small position,” he said.

The SBMC members also heard from other officials at-

tached to the LGEA on issues such as how to handle operational challenges of running the SBMC, financial regulations, among others.

While donating uniforms to members of school-based voluntary organisations, Majiyagbe underscored the importance of clubs in inculcating values into the young ones in more effective ways than classroom teaching.

“The school-based voluntary organisations are very important because of their vital roles, particularly in the development of core values, character building, leadership, personality adjustment, relevant skills, psycho-social therapy. It provides means for ensuring the development of the “Total Child” which our core curriculum may not be able to achieve,” he said.

New EKSU VC resumes

T

HE newly-appointed Vice-Chancellor of the Ekiti State University (EKSU), Prof Patrick Oladipo Aina, has said his vision is to elevate the institution to world class status.

He made the pledge at a corporate prayer held at the Main Auditorium of the university on Tuesday to welcome him to office even as the Catholic Bishop of Ekiti, Most Rev. Felix Femi Ajakaye, urged him to be a team player and worthy ambassador of Christ.

Aina, who offered his hand of fellowship to all members of the university community, pledged to work towards transforming the university into the Massachusetts of Nigeria where

everybody will come to receive education.

In his exhortation, Most Rev Ajakaiye urged the Vice- Chancellor to use his international exposure to uplift EKSU. He also urged him to be God fearing and to make the university a centre of academic excellence.

The Bishop called on the entire household of the University to co-operate with the new vicechancellor in love stressing that only true sincere love could anyone succeed.

He promised the partnership of the Catholic Church with the University to promote quality education.

On the occasion, which attracted members of staff, students and well-wishers,

•Prof Aina

several songs of praise were rendered. The bible reading by the Chairman of the Committee of Deans, Prof Olugbenga Aribisala, was taken from II Chronicles chapter 26, verses 115.

EDUTALK

with

Investments in brain gain

A

S President Goodluck Jonathan is fresh in the saddle, he may be thinking of ideas he could implement that will be remembered long after he has left office as President.

I have one for him. If as an academic, he can reverse the brain Kofoworola drain that has become the lot of this country he will leave a legacy Belo-Osagie we will forever appreciate.

Every year, we lose the best of our Kofosagie@yahoo.com brains to foreign countries where 08054503077 (SMS only) their talents are exploited to move their own societies forward. With advances in technology and knowledge making the world more compact, we have realised it is an imperative for us to gain globally competitive skills and we are making efforts to do so. However gaining the skills is not enough. There has to be opportunities to use the skills in Nigeria. Unfortunately, we do not have many of such opportunities at home so our talented people go elsewhere.

Migration is an issue around the world. The developed countries, where these opportunities abound, are straining under the burden of supporting outsiders so do everything to restrict entry into their domains. While they have no patience for no-do-gooders, and are quick to deport them, they welcome foreigners who have what they seek to further develop.

I was still fresh on the job when I learnt about Oluwatosin Otitoju, who graduated from Queen’s College, Yaba with the best SSCE result in Nigeria in 1996. She went ahead to study Electrical Engineering at Howard University in the United States on scholarship, where she finished with a First Class. She was immediately accepted to do a doctorate in Control and Dynamics System at the California Institute of Technology, the first Howard alumnus to win the Poincare Fellowship, sponsors of the scholarship.

Many more were before Otitoju and even after her. Philip Emeagwali, a major contributor to the speed of the Internet works today, also readily comes to mind. It was here in Nigeria that he attended primary and secondary schools, where he was cajoled by his father to solve loads of maths questions in seconds. These two are among the thousands, we have applying their knowledge and skills abroad.

They may be passionate about the country they left behind. But remaining outside there, I wonder how much they can do to improve the fortunes of the country.

Chisom Mildred Okpala, is about to join them. She resumes at Harvard in August on full scholarship to study Economics and Mathematics.

She would love to contribute to Nigeria’s economy, like former Finance Minister, Ngozi Okonjo-Uweala. She hopes to return someday to do so.

I hope she does.

This piece is not to disparage anybody for seeking greener pastures but to call the attention of our leaders, particularly President Jonathan to find a way to keep our most talented people at home to develop the country.

Our education system is not as bad as we make it. The trio I have mentioned in this piece started out in this country, studying at primary and secondary schools where the education curriculum used was wholly indigenous. They did not attend international schools. They wrote our public examinations on the basis of which they earned scholarships to study abroad.

For instance, it was because Chisom made seven A1 and two B3 in the 2010 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) that she was nominated for a programme organised by the United States to identify talented students for American schools. It is this same examination, which the examining body, the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) battles with exam cheats to ensure its credibility every year that produced the 17-year old who got a slot among the 6.2 per cent of 34,950 candidates admitted into Harvard for next session. Her admission affirmed the decision by WAEC to give her the grades she earned.

It also shows that there is nothing wrong with our curriculum and instruments for testing knowledge; that if we improve on them, we will compete even better with the best around the world.

However, more important is how Chisom was discovered. In her country of birth and origin, it was the embassy of a foreign country that thought it expedient to seek out talents like her. If the United States can have a programme for the best brains in Nigeria, how much more the government of Nigeria, which has a greater responsibility to its citizens.

I know that the Federal Government has various kinds of scholarship programmes. There is one that provides undergraduates of Federalowned tertiary institutions who have Cumulative Grade Point Averages of 3.00 points and above and scale through tests with funds every session. I know there are postgraduate scholarships as well that provide funding for foreign education – e.g the PTDF scholarship.

However, unlike the United States programme, where the initiators are only interested in what you have to offer, our own programmes are dogged by inconsistencies, nepotism, corruption and favouritism.

Rather than accept talented people, we consider things like catchment area, which means some not-so-qualified people are accepted at the expense of brilliant people. If President Jonathan wants to put an end to brain drain, this has to stop.

He also needs to evolve programmes to encourage academics and other talented people to return to work in the country. That means he needs to fix the energy problem, provide infrastructure such as good roads, potable water and health facilities, and engage them in areas where they will excel in place of politicians and sychophants.

•First published August 25, 2011

42

THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2011

43

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2011

POLITICS THE NATION

E-mail:- politics@thenationonlineng.net

Prof. Steve Ugba was the candidate of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) in the last governorship election in Benue State. In this interview with journalists in Lagos, he recounts his experience and efforts by his party to recover what he described as his stolen mandate. Group Political Editor BOLADE OMONIJO, was there.

‘PDP, Suswam cannot intimidate us’ W

HAT motivated you to run for the governorship seat in Benue State?

I took an unpaid leave of absence about a year ago as a Professor of Marketing at California State University in United States of America to come back to Benue on a rescue mission. Spearheaded first by the Almighty God, the good people of Benue and my very good friends, the current Minority Leader of the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Dr. George Akume, former Senate President, Dr. Iyorchia Ayu and lots of other friends who prevailed upon me on the need to come back and participate in rescuing Benue State. But it has been a rocky ride so far. We are at the tribunal right now contesting the announcement of Gabriel Suswam as the winner of the April elections in Benue State.

Our petition has seen its ups and downs. But lucky enough, the Supreme Court revived our petition when it ordered the tribunal to retry our petition based on its merits. So, we are back to Benue State governorship tribunal which has met and which will to continue hearing our case. We are very optimistic that justice will prevail.

While you have consistently alleged that the election was rigged, the PDP has continued to deny.

How would you convince Nigerians that you are not just a bad loser?

When I came to run for elections in Benue, I was told repeatedly that this was going to be an impossible task because I didn’t have the structures on the ground to win. I was an unknown quantity. I didn’t have money. At the time, I didn’t understand what they meant, but now, I do understand precisely what they meant. And I was also reminded

by Gabriel Suswam what Nigerian democracy meant as opposed to democracy that I knew obtains in other parts of the world especially in the United States. And one of the reasons why I came back home is trying to institutionalise that brand of democracy. What became very clear to me was that I needed structures to win the elections. By structures, they meant I must have either a battalion of militia with AK 47 riffles spread across the entire state.

Unfortunately, that is one of the features of politics in the state.Can you cope?

I abhor violence. But I have since realised that that is one of those ingredients for success in a political race in Nigeria, especially in Benue State. The second thing that I realised was that I needed lots of money which I didn’t have. I am a teacher. I have never worked for government, except in United States where I worked for the state of California as a teacher. So, I couldn’t have amassed any wealth. I have realised that you need lots of money not to win the hearts of the people, but bribe electoral officers, judges and security forces to look the other way while you commit atrocities. I don’t have any appetite for that. I am very grateful to the current Minority Leader of the Senate, Dr. George Akume, for standing firmly behind me. I am also very grateful to Dr.

Iyorchia Ayu who also is solidly behind me. I am also grateful to the small people that nobody care about who have stood solidly behind me in Benue State and outside of Benue as well as others who contributed to the success of our campaign. It wasn’t a campaign based on money. The success that we registered in Benue State was based on the people’s desire for change. It was not only Steve Ugba who deserves this change but the people of Benue wanted a genuine change. They were yearning for it and they all supported my candidacy.

Are you sure you enjoy such support?

If you go to the remote villages of Benue today, you find people shouting and chanting ‘Ugba yon’ (meaning, show change). It is divine intervention. So, I am grateful to the people of Benue who accepted our message of good governance, better education, qualitative healthcare and improved infrastructure that will help to realise our economic development goals. And we wanted to focus squarely using agriculture as the anchor, because that is what we have in abundance. We are known as the ‘Food Basket of the Nation’ and yet we import food into Benue.

You talked about stolen mandate; at what point was this mandate of yours stolen?

I didn’t come to contest for elections to steal votes. I came believing in Prof. Jega when he preached ‘one man, one vote’ and that is what gave me the courage and motivation to inject myself into this process. When I came, I discovered that it was a myth and was not something that others took seriously. I took that seriously, my party, the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) in Benue State took it very seriously. But unfortunately, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Suswam didn’t take it seriously. Knowing this, we still went to the field and contested the elections. In spite of this, we were declared winner in more than half of the local government areas in Tiv land that controls over 60 per cent of the votes. We have three zones: Zone A, Zone B and Zone C. Zone A and B combined that is where the bulk of the Tiv local governments are. Zone C is Idoma and Igede. We won overwhelmingly in Zones A and C. in Zone C, PDP claimed it won because they exploited the real run down local governments.

If PDP and Suswam had won this election fair and square, Steve Ugba will not be sitting down here today talking to you. I will be the first to congratulate him because it’s not a do-or-die for me. The votes were stolen and the stealing didn’t just start at the collation centres because Government House was monitoring the returns and instructed people to go back and change numbers. We didn’t have the capacity to tell people to change numbers; government did using the Resident Electoral Commissioner, Alhaji Nasir Ayilara, against whom we had complained severally that he was a biased empire. We saw him as a biased umpire, we didn’t want him around.

So, we believe and not just ACN, the people of Benue believe and if you go to the streets today and ask anyone who won the election, they will tell you ‘we didn’t vote for Gabriel Suswam. We voted for Steve Ugba’.

But, in your view, why Steve Ugba?

This is not the first time that Gabriel Suswam has stolen a mandate. This is not the first time that PDP in Benue had stolen someone else’s mandate. What they told me each time I went on our campaign trips or rallies, the first question they asked me was ‘Governor, if we vote for you how are you going to ensure that our votes count?’ Every single place that I went to, that was what they kept asking me. At first, honestly, I didn’t understand what they meant until the day of the election when I started receiving phone calls ‘we don’t have ballot papers here’, ‘people have run away with ballot boxes’, ‘they are shooting guns in the air’, ‘they are preventing ACN people from voting’. I then understood exactly what they meant. They were powerless and they needed someone to stand up and fight for them. That is why we have gone to the Supreme Court and we are prepared to go to the Supreme Court 200 times until it says that we didn’t win the election fair and square. It’s not about Steve Ugba, it’s about people. Their expectations are very high. We want to discourage the culture of impunity in Benue State, to give people a chance to develop.

The time frame for election petition is six months, going by the 2010 Electoral Act. As such, the PDP is saying that your petition has expired…

Our case, just like other cases at the tribunal in Benue, has been thrown out on technical grounds.

‘You didn’t put a dot here; you didn’t sign on this line or you used wrong colour paper, case dismissed’. We have been challenging these rulings and the cases have been coming back, including this provision of 180 days.

The truth is that, our case was aborted and dead by the time we got to the Supreme Court which means there was no case and time was not running. As far as the tribunal was concerned, it’s all over.

But the Supreme Court said ‘go back and retry the case on its merits.’ So, you have to start afresh and that is what even the tribunals in Benue, has said. The Appeal Court in Benue has now ordered those cases bordering on this 180 days timeline to go back and start afresh. At the time our case was aborted, we had started presenting our material and they were all accepted. We were at the point of introducing our witnesses and then present our final evidence when our case was aborted. The Supreme Court has revived our case and we will have another 180 days to retry it. So, we are very thankful to the Supreme Court for doing what is right.

In the recent past, Benue politics has become violent with either PDP or ACN accusing each other of instigating the attacks. Where do you stand on this?

•Ugba

‘My family repeatedly had been victim of political violence. My ancestral home was torched, my grand parents’ bodies exhumed and burnt. My younger brother was killed in 1983 because of political violence’ People often ask: how come there is always violence between PDP and other parties? The last time it was PDP and ANPP (All Nigeria Peoples Party). Then another party comes, its PDP and that party and violence. So, when a party now tries to oppose PDP, must there be violence? My family repeatedly had been victim of political violence. My ancestral home was torched, my grand parents’ bodies exhumed and burnt. My younger brother was killed in 1983 because of political violence. Paul Unongo, a Minister of Steel, is not my biological father but that is the person who trained me to be what I am today. He ran for governorship in 1983 after he was declared a loser. Few years after that, my immediate younger brother who just came back from United States on holidays was intercepted and slaughtered because of politics.

That was why people wanted to stop me in order not to awaken the trauma of my experience. I have been outside this country for 40 years. I have had time to reflect and ask myself very probing questions.

My father died in a car accident with my two sisters, my mother died in a car accident with 18 other people. Does it mean that I am not going to drive a car for fear that I

may also die in an accident? I said no; that is a defeatist attitude. I cannot stay in the United States and keep pointing accusing fingers at people who are suffering at home.

We want to change this culture of violence. The people in Lagos State are thriving not because they all come and kneel down before Governor (Babatunde) Fashola. He created the enabling environment for people to thrive. Fashola is not the richest man in Lagos State and I don’t think he is dreaming of being the richest man in Lagos State.

However, in Benue, the governor has to be the richest man. Why? The governor has to be the most popular person. Why? All roads must lead to Government House.

Why? That is the culture we want to change and by extension we hope that other states in Nigeria will follow. We have restrained our people from reacting to the provocations of PDP. We have more people on the ground than PDP; people who are interested in Ugba’s cause, PDP supporters, ANPP supporters, CPC supporters and other political parties. So this cut across all political parties and people are not voting for ACN only but they are voting for the symbol that represents hope for them.

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THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2011

THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2011

45

THE NATION

NATURAL HEALTH E-mail:- health@thenationonlineng.net

QUESTION

CLINIC DAY

Please tell me more about the Natural Medicine Hospital and Pharmacovigilance Centre

by Father Adodo and the activities of Pax Herbal Clinic and Research Laboratories.

Adodo’s natural medicine hospital opens The Director, Pax Herbal Clinic and Research Laboratories, the parent body of the Natural Medicine Hospital and Pharmacovigilance Centre, Father Adodo writes on the new facility.

T

HE treatment of diseases and preservation of health, both conditioned by culture, have been a human pursuit since antiquity.

Using drugs and diet as remedies for the disruptive episodes in life process is not something new. It is as old as human existence. The plant kingdom since the beginning of human civilisation served as the reservoir of medicine. In Africa alone, the World Health Organisation estimates that about 80 per cent of the population use herbal medicine. The global market for herbal medicine stands at over $100 billion yearly and is growing steadily. Nigeria is yet to into this as a means of poverty alleviation.

The accumulated knowledge of health practices and products is a rich cultural heritage common to all human societies, sometimes ignored or unrecognised in a formal or institutional sense. What separates this body of knowledge referred to as “traditional medicine” (TM) is the fact that the latter is anchored in “science”, while the former is practical experience.

As long as science continued to be narrowly defined, traditional medicine remained largely unnoticed.

Increasingly, the very validity of the “traditional modern” dichotomy is being questioned. Traditional medicine differs from the “modern” or “western” medicine not in terms of goals or effects, but in terms of their underlying cultures and historical contexts.

Viewed from this perspective, the World Health Organisation (WHO, 1977) noted that: “All medicine is modern in so far as it is satisfactorily directed towards the common goal of providing health care, despite the setting in time, place and culture.”

The era of describing traditional medicine as fetish, superstitious, or unscientific is gone. Medicine,

whether western or traditional has the same goal of providing health care.

Traditional medicine in some countries, which includes Nigeria has tended to stagnate through not exploiting the rapid discoveries of science and technology for its development. It has kept a slow pace of change in comparison with medicine as practised in the industrialised countries, which keeps abreast of scientific and technological innovations to the extent that it is often exclusively referred to as modern medicine.

At Paxherbals, we have noted a disconnection between scientific, academic research carried out mostly by university scholars and traditional medicine practitioners.

The academic researchers carry out their research based on information provided by traditional heal-

‘Traditional medicine in some countries, which includes Nigeria has tended to stagnate through not exploiting the rapid discoveries of science and technology for its development. It has kept a slow pace of change in comparison with medicine as practised in the industrialised countries’

– Sulaiman Lawal, Adamawa State

•Adodo ers and then patent their discoveries and often get royalties for their work.

Meanwhile, the old man in the village with his repertoire of knowledge remains poor and often dies poor. For traditional medicine to progress, there must be a seamless movement from research to innovation, a mutual trust and respect between the scientific researchers and the herbal manufacturers/practitioners as well as physicians. We, at Paxherbals, are being driven to set the pace in this remarkable approach and that is part of the reason behind the establishment of the Natural Medicine Hospital and Pharmaco-vigilance Centre, Adeniyi Jones, Ikeja, Lagos.

To this end, in the last one year, there was mass cultivation of medicinal plants, such as bitter leaf, sour sop, lemon grass, hibiscus, oranges, aloe species, senna alata, sida auta and other high potency medicinal plants. We established pharnaco-vigilance centres in some hospital in both Ajah/Lekki and Ikeja. Research partnership with various government and private agencies in the development of traditional medicine and culti-

vation of medicinal plants. Expansion of our research laboratories equipped with modern analytical equipment.

Development of a digital herbarium for proper identification and conservation of inch digeneous medicinal plants and frequent hosting of science students from various Nigerian universities at the Pax facilities in Edo State to broaden their knowledge of traditional medicine and sustain their interest in the practice of herbal medicine.

In summary, Paxherbals established in 1996, has grown from a two room wooden shaft to a gigantic edifice. From a small production laboratory to a vast research complex comprising a diagnostic, quality control, drug formulation and chemistry laboratory.

As at 2005,Pax has only two drugs listed by NAFDAC, but today, we have 33, the highest so far by any single organisation in Nigeria. In the Esan Central Local Government Area of Edo State, where Pax is headquatres is located, we are the highest employers. Our engineering department has manufactured purpose-made conveyors, sensors, gribders and other functional equipment.

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THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2011

NATURAL HEALTH

Amazon: Plant medicines to watch in 2012 T

RADITIONALLY, January is when this column forecasts herbal medicine trends of a New Year. It is starting one month ahead this time for the following reasons…

Interest in herbal medicine this year grew so huge that the trends threw up a heavier volume of traffic that would, quite naturally, require much more time to pass.

Next year should witness the presence in the Nigerian market of major corporate players in the world market who, until now, have been somewhat content to let their Nigerian agents test the waters. The point having been made by these agents that Nigeria is a viable market, the multinational producers are coming in their full regalia. The Bell Lifestyle products of Canada will come with about 53 products. The Flora group, which has the blessings of Dr Udo Erasmus, reputable author of FAT S THAT HEAL, FATS THAT KILL reviewed for some weeks on this page, will come with about 60 medicinal products. These would include herbal teas that are specific for particular health disorders. The group I’d like to begin with is the Rain Forest Nutrition which produces the Amazon Basin range of herbal medicines. These plant medicines are tropical, which means many of them, as I have found out, grow as yet in the wild in Nigeria. In the Amazon basin, they are now cultivated in plantations on sustainable basis, well researched clinically and marketed to the world. Because Nigerian medicinal plant researchers, doctors and pharmacemtical companies are still working disjointly, Nigeria has not been able, despite the wealth of its forests in medicinal plants, to produce herbal medicines that will flow in from the Amazon forests from next year.

The Amazon When one hears of the Amazon, one’s first thoughts are likely to be women warriors in Benin Empire. But it has orgins as well in Greek female warriors of old. In modern times, the Amazon refers to about six countries through which the Amazon River flows. The Amazon River is believed to have been named by Spanish explorer Fransisco de Orelana in 1541. It is fed by steams from a huge basin or valley and flows from the Andes mountain in Peru to offload its water into the Atlantic Ocean about 4,000 miles (about 6,437 kilometres) away. The Amazon River is the second largest river worldwide coming after the Nile in Egypt. But, in terms of water volume, it is the world’s biggest river. It spans about 4,000 miles through three countries: and has banns in three more … Brazil, Peru, Columbia, Bohvia, Venezuela and Equador. The plant medicine products in reference are made by Rain tree Nutrition and carry a badge of the Amazon basin.

Amazon A-F Many Nigerians suffer from Fungi, candida and mold infections without suspecting they are. Just as many people think tuberculosis affects only the lungs, looking elsewhere for a culprit when this dangerous disease attacks the bones of the spine, for example, causing back pain, there is widespread belief that candida runs riot only in the vagina, where it causes candidiasis. But candidiasis merely means presence of candida in larger population than is normal wherever it is. Thus, it may overshoot its bounds in the intestines and get into the blood, setting the stage for invasion of the heart or of the brain and causing all those seemingly inexplainable symptoms, which may overwhelm even a doctor. Recently, a woman I met told me three different doctors referred her to a psychiatrist. She had the feeling of something crawling all over her body and brain. She could hardly sleep, was irritable, lost energy and couldn’t perform house chores let along concentrate on her job. The symptoms suggested staphylococus aureus. To that I added suspiscion of candida when, on examination, I found her tongue was heavily grayish. I suggested she run a test for candida which she confirmed three days, after she was advised to try Amazon A-F for candida, Amazon C-F for staphylococcus and Myco Extract for mycoplasma and mycobacterial infections. These are all Raintree Nutrition plant medicines from the Amazon. Three days after starting the medication, she reported some flexibility in the waistline which enabled her to bend the waist and sweep the floor of her house, something she wasn’t able to do in a long while.

Amazon A-F is a compedium of eight synergic herbs which in clinical trials have demonstrated anticandidal, antifungal and anti-mold activities. These component herbs are Jatoba, Pau d’arco, Anamu, Clavillia, Brazillian Peppertree, Cuaco, Fedegoson and Graviola. Except for Graviola, there are all plants couched in Amazon language.

Pau d’arco has been found as long ago as about 1980 to be very versatile against 11 fungal and yeast strains, viruses, including herpes I and II, malaria, schustosomiasis, trypanosomiasis, Heliabacterpylori, staphylococus, Streplococus, Candida, Tuberculosis, Syphilis, Gonorrhea etc. So, versatile is it that some physicians enlist it as they do Graviola in cancer therapy.

Amazon A-V This medicine comes encapsulated as an extract, designed against all kinds of viruses; nine herbs make up the encapsulated brand, namely…

• Bitter melon, Clavillia, Mullaca, Jergon sacha, Carquega,

sleep under an electric fan with her coughing about 50 per cent radical whereas, before, the fan aggravated the condition.

There are seven herbs in this formula, namely, Embaulsa, guaco, Culen, amorseco, Bellaco capsi, ayapana, Matico and Canchalagua. The recipe is contraindicated for pregnant and lactating women as well as for hemophiacs (people with bleeding disorders) and people on blood thinning drugs on Guaco has tendencies to thin the blood.

B

Amargo, Chanca Piedra, Mutamba and Anamu.

I

N 1993, a study with mice showed that water extract of Anamu increased immune cell production (lymphocytes and interleukin II). Another study that year, also with mice, roused Natural killer (NLC) cell activity 100 per cent with improvements in interleukin II and interkeukun output. More studies present Anamu as anti-tumour, antileukaemic and anticancerous. Jergon Sacha as a single herb is prescribed for snake and spider bites and viral conditions such as hepatitis and HIV.

Amazon Menstrual support There are 10 herbs lumped together here which South American herbal practitioners prescribe singly or compounded for hormonal and reproductive challenges. Once the herbs, Abuta, i.e. nicknamed ‘midwives herb’ is used against uterine fibroids, uterine spasms, such as menstrual pains, bleeding, endometriosis absence of menstruation, painful menstruation, excessive blood flow, water retention and premenstrual syndrome (PMS), among other female conditions.

Abuta is reported to prevent threatened abortion, uterine bleeding after childbirth, inflammatory conditions in the reproductive system. In Peru, the bark of cumaseba tree is found phytestrogenic and used for pain, cramps and inflammation. In Peru and Brazil, Bellaco capsules have been credited with anti-inflammatory potential uterine fibroids ovarian cysts. Considered an emanagogue worldwide, Erva tostao, two studies with monkeys revealed uterine bleeding common in the use of Inter-uterine Device (IUD). The only contraindications in the use of Amazon Menstruation support is during pregnancy, breastfeeding and history of Erva tostao reducing heart functions.

Amazon Joint-Muscle support Traditionally used by South Americans for joint and muscle injuries, this formula comprises eight herbs: Cats claw; chuchuasi; Amor Seco; Tanya; Picao Predo; Iporuru; Sarsaparila and Guaco. Of the lot, I am familiar with only Cat Claw and Sarsaparila. Cats Claw, this colum has reported, grows lushfully in Southwestern Nigeria. At a Gothe-Institute seminar on Nigeria herbal recipes a few years ago, the representative of Commission Q, the German equvalentry Nigeria’s NAFDAC, samples of Cats Claw were taken from Nigeria and planted in Germany under a German government-funded 10-year research. Today, German doctors prescribe Cat’s claw for arthritis and pain.

Cat’s Claw is the leading component of this Amazon joint and muscle medicine. It is described in the product literature as sulfused with antioxidant chemicals, such as ‘tanins’ catechins and proiyanidins… plant sterols (beta sitestorol and campestorol)”, which give it some of its antiinflamatory potential. In various studies, this plant has been found to inhibit inflammation in 46 per cent to 89 per cent of cases. Chuchuhuansi performs no less. Arrow seed releases tense muscles. Iporuru blocked COX-! Prostagland, in a cause of joint inflammation and damage. Sarsaparilla detoxifies and aids absorption of other medicines. Thus, the product offers potential for dealing favourably with “arthritis, joint and muscle injuries and muscle and joint inflammation.”

Amazon throat – E2 We are currently in the dusty harmattan season. Everyone is inhaling dust and coughing or spitting. Some people will inhale germs along with the dust to set the stage for health problems in the future. This is one of the few Amazon products I have personally tried since I do not cough. It was not available when, last week, I had to advise a woman with a bad cough that raged for about 10 minutes every session with a serious weight lost.

Instead, I suggested Olivir 75, taken one capsule four times daily, which helped. By the following day, she was able to

e-mail: femi.kusa@yahoo.com or olufemikusa@yahoo.com

RAZILIANS use Embuba traditionally for all sorts of respiratory disorders, such as “asthma, bronchitis, coughs, whooping cough and pneumonia. In 1870, Brazilians made a herbal drug, Opodeldo de Guaco for bronchitis cough and rheumatism. In Chile, Cuber, another component of this Amazon recipe, is used as bronchodialator, something which enlarges the airways to make more air flow to and from the lungs. In Brazil, Culen is used for asthma. Research has found to be “antibacteria, antifungal antihyperlipemic, anti-unflamatory, antimutagenic, antioxidant, antispasmodie, antiviral, cytotoxic, ferifuge and hepato protective.”

Amor seed parades no less credentials. In 10 separate studies, researchers found that it blocked many substances produced during an asthma attack. These include spamogens, which promote contractions in the lungs. Bellaco cpsi, which also comes from Rain Tree Nutrition as a single product in capsules and fluid extract, finds use in Peru for inflammation, fever (pain) smooth muscle relaxation. Traditionally, it is found in the Amazon region to be more effective than the pharmaceutical drug Nystatin, often prescribed by doctors for Candida and other fungi infections. Bellaco capsi is prescribed, also, for wounds, such as ulcers, tuberculosis, syphilis and manage. In 2004 and 2006, Brazilian researchers found the plants bark had artimicrobial action against disease-causing organisms such as Micobacterium phlei, Candida, E.Coli, Staphylococus Bacillus and Psendomonas.

Thus, Amazon Throat E7 should be a powerhouse remedy for upper respiratory infection in a country such as Nigeria where the environment is not only dusty, but smoky from automobile exhaust, electricity, generators, firewood cookings and factory fumes, all of which compromise the health of the throat and the breathing system.

Myco

This product comes in capsule and extract formats aimed at mycoplasma trobles. Myco refers to fungi and plasma to the almost colourless fluid part of the blood from which red blood cells are separated, but in which white blood cells are suspended. Plasma feeds the cells and removes their wastes. Unfortunately, some microorganisms live in the plasma, causing havoc in the cells if unchecked. Many drugs do not reach these organisms there, accounting for some reasons some illness are not effectively cured if confronted at all. Now, other 100 diseases have been documented to be caused by mycoplasma, that is fungi which live in the plasma. Mycoplasma pneumonia and about seven other mycoplkasma infections have been linked to many auto immune diseases directly or as co-agents.

These diseases include: Rhematoid arthritis, Alzheimeis Chronic Fatigue sybdrome (CFS), Multiple Sclerosis, Filoromyalgia, Asthma, Lupus, to mention a few problems. In 1997, the journal Emerging Infections Diseases, published by the National Centre for Infectious Diseases and the Centre for Diesease Control and Prevention, reported that mycoplasmas ere re-emerging and sophisticated, causing malignancies and unexplained and complex illnesses.

Myco Extract or Myco Capsules require diet supplementation with probiotics and digestive enzymes if taken for more than 30 days. They also call for increased fluid intake and, often, combination with Amazon A-f, Amazon Immune Booster and Amazon Lympth support. Its components are mullaca, brazillian peppertree, anama, Clavillia, Macela Fedegoso, Picao Presto and Urva Ursi.

The Amazon Basin is on the way here, indeed with many more products than space will allow mention here. Some of them are Amazon Urinary Support, Amazon Blood Support, Amazon Brain Support, Amazon CNS support (for the Central Nervous system), Amzon Bowel Support, Amazon Adrenal support, Amazon liver Support, Amazon stomach E-7 and lots more. I am waiting to hear of Amazon Vision support.

I must state that the Amazon basin is not richer than Nigeria’s tropical rain forests in terms of the diversity of plant medicines.

It has only just happened that, in the Amazon, Gown and Town are working together. Gown, of course means researchers in the Universities and town, doctors and industry.

In Nigeria, every one is on his own, no serious links or focus. And that is why we are dependent on other people for medicines, drug or plant, when Nature, before it incarnated us here, had prepared all we need for existence. This should be food for thought in 2012.

Arise, O compatriots.

Welcome, Amazon Basin.

May it be that you are sent to open our eyes.

Tel: 08034004247, 07025077303

THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2011

47

INDUSTRY

Palm oil producers task govt on lending rates STAKEHOLDERS in the palm oil industry have urged the Federal Government to cut down the lending rates for palm oil farmers to five per cent.

They also asked the government to hasten the development of infrastructure and ensure full implementation of the deregulation of fertiliser importation and distribution.

These demands were contained in a communiqué issued after a twoday stakeholders and investors workshop hosted by First City Monument Bank (FCMB) in Benin City.

The stakeholders said credit fa-

Stories by Toba Agboola

cilities with the right terms should be available to farmers at an interest rate of five per cent with a moratorium period of five to seven years in line with the long gestation period of oil palm.

According to them, farm land, equipment and crops should be considered as collateral for loans to oil palm plantation owners.

On the challenges of improving access and uptake of quality inputs, they urged the Nigeria Institute of Oil Palm Research (NIFOR) to seek more openness and transparency in its communication strategy to

stakeholders, overhaul its communication strategy and embrace modern tools such as the Internet and agricultural extension services.

They also called on the institute to set up a vibrant marketing department to effectively market their products, noting that this would help generate more revenue.

The stakeholders requested that NIFOR’s mandate be reviewed to focus on the production of sprouted nuts.

“The production of palm seedlings should be deregulated while NIFOR should focus on the quality control and standardisation,” they

said.

Key players of the oil palm industry also called on the government to allocate one per cent of palm produce sales to a fund that will support research institutes, such as NIFOR. They also threw their weight behind the deregulation of fertiliser distribution, saying that the latest initiative should be maintained.

“We believe that a free market for fertiliser will stimulate competition, free up existing bottlenecks and promote job creation. The focus of the government should be to create an enabling environment for entrepreneurs to seek opportunities

in fertiliser production.”

The stakeholders called for government’s intervention in the challenges faced by farmers in land acquisition by developing policies that will simplify the process, as well as minimise the costs associated with land acquisition.

They also asked for a radical reduction in the cost of processing and obtaining Certificate of Occupancy (C of O). These, they believe, will help ensure availability of land for large scale production of oil palm.

Fed Govt, NESG, Canada plan SMEs development

T

HE Federal Government and the Canadian government has announced plans to promote Small and Medium Scale Enterprises, (SMEs), and youth entrepreneurship.

Speaking at the Young Entrepreneurs Forum, organised by the Nigerian Economic Summit Group, (NESG) and the Canadian government, Minister for Youth Development, Mr Bolaji Abdullahi, said the Federal Government’s decision to stop the posting of members of the National Youth Service Corp (NYSC), to banks, financial institutions, oil companies and some private organisations, was part of a plan to instill entrepreneurial spirit in youths.

Abdullahi said the Federal Government has decided that, henceforth, corps members will be posted to agricultural institutions, farms, educational institutions and infrastructure development firms.

According to Abdullahi, this will help empower the youths with the needed skills and enterprise to drive the economic growth and development of the country.

He said: “The idea is instead of the youths storming the roads like soldiers that they are not, they will participate in ventures that will help prepare them for their future and the future of the country.

“We are committed to growing the next generation of young entrepreneurs who know how to write good business plans and not graduates who know how to write good curriculum vitae.”

Abdullahi explained further that the need to instill an entrepreneurial spirit in youths was the reason the Federal Government set up the You WIN project.

The minister, who, however, stated that the project is yet to achieve the envisaged result, noted that the programme is designed to provide aspiring youths with a platform to showcase their business acumen, skills and aspirations to business leaders, investors and mentors in Nigeria.

He explained that the programme, which will be an annual Business Plan Competition, (BPC), for aspiring young entrepreneurs, in line with the Federal Govern-

‘We are committed to growing the next generation of young entrepreneurs who know how to write good business plans and not graduates who know how to write good curriculum vitae’ ment’s drive to create more jobs for Nigerians, is targeted at the youth with well-developed and new business concept, or innovation/expansion plan for an existing enterprise.

Speaking in the same vein, Canadian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Mr Chris Cooter, said the Canadian government is set to harness the potentials of the youths to promote bi-lateral trade between Canada and Nigeria.

He said the country has set up a development and training programme in Nigeria to help finetune and sharpen the skills and potentials of youths in the country.

Cooter said Canada is poised to tap the opportunities presented by Nigeria’s young population in unleashing its economic prowess, especially in bringing about an increase in investment by firms.

He said Canada will help in reviving some moribund sectors of the economy and in deploying advanced technological infrastructure to help fast track Nigeria’s economic development.

Director-General, NESG, Mr. Frank Nweke, said the programme is an offshoot of the National Economic Summit organised yearly by the NESG and has as its focus, taking the responsibility for foreign investment and global partnership.

•From Left: Managing Director,How Well Services,Nigeria Limited, Mr Emeka Madudili; Chief Operating Officer, Classic Beverages Nigeria Limited, Mr Prahlad Gangadharam and the Marketing Manager, Mr Benson Abraham, at the 10th anniversary of LaCasera and new bottle launch held at the Lake Resort & Hotels,Enugu, recently.

•From left: President, African Women’s Entrepreneurship Programme (AWEP), Mrs Yemisi Iranloye; Director of Trade, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Mr David Adejuwon, and Vice-President, Southeast (AWEP), Mrs Wilma Aguele, during the inauguration of African Women’s Entrepreneurship programme at the ministry’s headquarters, Abuja

Exporters accuse govt of bias

I

NDIGENOUS exporters of non-oil products have accused the Federal Government of favouring foreign investors in accessing the Export Expansion Grant (EGG).

Managing Director of Globus Enterprise, Alhaji Kamilu Ila, told the National Assembly Committee on Trade and Investment in Kano that the EEG, which was meant to be an incentive to induce non-oil exports among Nigerians, is ironically

enjoyed by foreign investors who are mostly into tanning business.

He said: “This policy introduced by the government is facing a setback in its implementation. The abuse of this process has gone very high and most of us cannot access these funds.

Said Ila: “The foreigners are the ones benefitting from it.

When these people are getting billions of naira as grants from

the Federal Government, we the indigenous exporters are borrowing money from the banks.

There is no way we can compete with them. There is high level of corruption in this subsidy.”

He stressed the need for a free market economy where every investor would have equal opportunity, “What we are asking is a level playing field open for operators. When I say level playing field I mean there should be free market economy,” he said.

He further noted that his company has been one of the leading factories about Nigeria, for about 23 years, but for the past six years it has remained dormant for lack of fund.

He said there were over 30 tanneries in Kano but now only two or three are producing and the functioning ones are those owned by the foreigners who are surviving because of the grant they are getting from the Federal

Government.

Responding to the allegation, the team leader of the committee, Mr Sylvester Ogbaga, said people should put in their personal effort to keep their companies afloat rather than rely on incentive from the government.

“You don’t establish a company just for the purpose of export expansion grant. You should do what others are doing to survive,” he said.

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THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2011

THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2011

49

ENERGY

Nigeria’s hydrocarbon reserves rise by 100%

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IGERIA’S hydro carbon reserves increased by 100 per cent since 1958 when oil was first struck and produced in the Niger Delta.

The Minister for Petroleum Resources, Diezzani Alison-Madueke disclosed this at an international conference organised by the Nigerian Association of Petroleum Explorationists (NAPE) in Lagos.

In the first 25 years between 1958 to 1983 the country produced over nine billion barrels of crude and condensate while the next 25 years saw about 18 billion barrels being produced to make it an 100 per cent increase.

Mrs Alison-Madueke, who was represented by the Group General Manager (GGM), NAPIMS, Morris Fiddi, stated that going by this trend it is obvious that the next 25 years holds a promising outlook for the industry.

She said in view of this, effort should be geared towards supporting reserves addition and growth of the industry t h r o u g h i n c r e a s e d exploratory work by professionals in the industry.

“The potential of growing oil and gas reserves is enormous and the expertise of professionals in geosciences would be required in turning this potential into reality,she said.

By Bidemi Bakare

She implored geoscientists to pay attention to the yet to be explored basins such as Benue, Gongola, Anamabra, Bida and Sokoto adding that the exploration work going on in the Chad Basin should be concluded.

While not unmindful of some challenges being faced by the industry including security, funding, exploration and exploitation in frontier areas, attainment of gas flare out and environmental and community issues she said the government is working assiduously with relevant stakeholders with a view to mitigating these challenges.

She urged geoscientists to come up with ideas that will increase the hydrocarbon reserve pool and develop optimal reservoir management concepts as well as processes that will lower the cost of crude oil and gas production.

The Managing Director, Chevron Nigeria Limited (CNL), Andrew Fawthrop, said the need for reserves replacement cannot be overemphasised adding that the development of these reserves should then be at a faster pace.

Fawthrop said with world energy consumption expected to increase from 84 million barrels to over 105 million barrels per day by 2025, Nigeria and other oil producing

countries needed to uncover more hydrocarbon reserves to meet the growing fuel demand.

He said research and exploration work has shown that there is sufficient hydrocarbon to sustain the world economies if only the oil producing countries can harness new frontiers for production.

“I believe there is enough hydrocarbon to meet the demand.But this hydrocarbon can only be unearthed when right investment is made and technology applied to harness unconventional sources of hydrocarbon in new frontiers,” he said.

He said his company has been doing its part in providing capital, technology and organisational capability to grow hydrocarbon reserves in its over 50 years of operations in the country.

He urged the government to help create environments where energy companies are able to apply their resources robustly, reliably and responsibly to the growth of hydrocarbon reserves adding that higher levels of cooperation would be required to maximise the value of the resources.

He asked that the industry be allowed to collaborate on providing access to these resources by contributing to shape policies,technologies and people development.

• From left: Deputy Vice-Chancellor (DVC), University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Prof. Isaac Asuzu; President, National Petroleum Investment Management Services, Mr Jide Ojo; General Manager, Upstream Nigeria, Exploration, ExxonMobil Nigeria, Mr Chikwendu Edoziem; representative of NAPIMS, Mrs. Tolu Adefunwa; and DVC, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Prof. Saburi Adesanya, during the inauguration/donation of geological equipment to the two universities, in Lagos.

PHOTO: ISAAC JIMOH AYODELE.

Oando assures of prompt delivery of aviation fuel O ANDO Plc has broken an other ground as it added to its list of clientele a new airline, RwandAir, with a promise to promptly supply aviation fuel to the airline for its operations in Nigeria.

At the briefing in Lagos to flag off the inaugural flight of the airline, the Chief Operating Officer, Oando Marketing Plc, Yomi Awobokun, said Oando is proud to be part of the history making by Rwanda who has gone through a lot of crises in years past.

Awobokun said: ”We are proud to associate ourselves with this noble course. The flag off of the inaugural flight of RwandAir is something to be happy about. And as one of the leading service providers in the country our intention is not only to provide quality service to RwandAir but to support Africa, the emerging giant after Asia.

“The airline caught our attention because of what they have been doing.Don’t forget that a few years ago, Rwanda was in conflict. But now they have come out of it and ready to tell the rest of the world that they are ready to go. So, what Oando is doing is to support them as they prepare to position themselves on the world map.”

By Bidemi Bakare

Awobokun stated that Oando being a world class company with the state of the art infrastructure would not only support the airline with quality service but also provide other value additions to help sustain it on this unfamiliar terrain.

“We are not only going to deliver aviation fuel to this airline but also provide other independent services from outsourcing down to after sales support. What that means is that our logo is now behind the company.We will support them to ensure that not only would they fly to Nigeria itch free but that they continue to grow as Africa’s emerging airline,” Awobokun said.

Having secured the RwandAir, Awobokun noted that Oando has started considering notching other opportunities in other parts of the continent such as Burkina Faso, Cameroon and Congo to mention but few.

“There is no doubt that RwandAir is no longer a potential opportunity but a reality. But we are not resting on our oars as we are looking at other opportunities in Africa. As you may be

aware, we have made our footprints in Ghana, Togo and other countries along the West Africa coast. We are currently looking at opportunities in Burkina Faso, Congo and Mali. Weare also looking at Cameroon and Congo.

We are sure that in few years time, Oando will establish itself as Africa’s undisputed indigenous giant in the down stream, he said.”

The Chief Executive Officer of the airline, John Mirenge, thanked Oando Plc for its support towards making the airline a dream come true.

He noted that although the airline has established itself in 13 destinations in the continent, the need to add Nigeria to the list came begging in view of the enormous opportunities that abound in the country.

He said the airline currently has seven operational aircrafts while four others would be added to the fleet by next year.

Assuring would-be passengers of comfortable and safe flight through RwandAir, Mirenge stated that the airline takes the issue of comfortability and safety seriously and this explains why the aircraft that is slated to ply Nigeria is a new one which was acquired a month ago.

Group flays neglect of communities by oil firms

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HE Oron Nation Oil and En vironmental Committee (ONOEC) has decried the neglect of oil-bearing communities in five local government areas in Oron Federal Constituency by oil firms operating in the areas.

ONOEC Chairman, Chief Etim Antai, said the communities suffered from the negative effects of oil exploration, but were excluded from the benefits accruing from the business by both the oil firms and the government.

Antai, who made the observation in Oron, named the affected council areas as Oron, Mbo, Udung Uko, Okobo and Urueoffong/ Oruko.

He said although the areas had been neglected for decades, the recent public hearing on the issue by the House of Representatives had brought some hope to the communities.

“As one of the minorities in Akwa Ibom, we had suffered in silence until the emergence of our present federal lawmaker, Robinson Uwak, who took our case to the House of Representatives, which culminated to last week’s public hearing.

“We are very pleased at this development, especially as the legislators commended the communities for not taking laws into their hands but chose the civilised approach of seeking redress through the appropriate channels,” Antai said.

He expressed optimism that the two House of Representatives Committees that looked into the matter would make recommendations that would correct the imbalance and ensure that the communities were given the oil-bearing status they deserved.

The chairman urged the committees to be fair and firm in their reports and shun the temptation of bowing to pressures and lobbying by multi-national oil firms.

Antai noted that oil firms operating within Oron waters had exploited the disunity within the communities to deny them of development projects and other social obligations they ought to dis-

charge to the people.

He disclosed that the crises among the communities had been resolved and pledged the commitment of ONOEC to the rapid transformation of Oron communities, assuring that the group would forge a good relationship with the multi-nationals.

Meanwhile, An Akwa Ibom women’s group, Edo Women Council, has given an oil firm, Septa Energy Ltd, seven days ultimatum to implement a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with host communities or face unpleasant times.

The group accused the company, which operates in Uquo Marginal Oil field in Esit Eket Local Government Area of refusing to fulfil its social obligations to the people of the area as contained in the MOU. Secretary of the women’s group, Mrs Grace Akpata, who disclosed this in in Esit Eket, however, declined comments on what further action the women would take if the firm failed to comply with the MOU at the expiration of the ultimatum.

Akpata disclosed that Esit Eket Community signed an agreement with Frontier Oil Ltd, operator of the oil field, which introduced Septa Energy as its partners in the development of gas reserves within its block.

She regreted that “Septa has provocatively abdicated its social responsibilities to the community by refusing to provide amenities and other incentives to the people.

“It was agreed that Septa should operate under the MOU we had with Frontier Oil since they are working together, but Septa has never cared to do anything to develop our place.

“It is sad that most of us gave up our farmlands to pave way for the gas plant here with the hope that the oil firm will develop our community, provide jobs, scholarships to our children as earlier agreed but none of the promises has been kept”, she said.

Firms set up N1.13b infrastructure fund

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IGERIAN oil and gas com pany, Atlantic Energy Drill ing Concepts Limited (“Atlantic Energy”) and African visionary and international designer, Ozwald Boateng, have agreed to establish a multi-million dollar charitable organisation, Made-InAfrica Foundation, to focus on firststage funding of infrastructure projects in Africa.

The Foundation will start off with a grant of $7 million (about N1.13 billion) and will provide “first mile” finance to Africans and African businesses involved in the development of major infrastructure projects in the region. Finance will be awarded for the drafting of feasibility studies and business plans ahead of seeking project finance from sources such as private equity, development finance institutions and commercial banks.

Commenting on the fund, Dayo Okusami, General Counsel and Executive Director of Atlantic Energy says,: “Atlantic Energy’s philosophy is based on the pillar of Enduring Commitment - an abiding promise towards corporate responsibility for the sustainable development of infrastructure projects in Nigeria and others parts of Africa.

Atlantic Energy is pleased to be a founding donor and supporter of this exceptional charity and we look forward to fostering a conti-

nent-wide push for sustainable infrastructure development. In this regard, Atlantic Energy Drilling Concepts Limited has committed to underwrite US$7 million for the independent power project feasibility studies, a renewal master plan in the eastern Africa, as well as the Foundation’s running costs for the first three years.”

“We believe the feasibility study will contribute to the acceleration of the much needed power infrastructure in countries such as Nigeria” he added.

Infrastructure development is the key factor in the transformation of sovereign economies from developing to emerging market status. According to the International Finance Corporation, the estimated financing requirement to close Africa’s infrastructure deficit amounts to US$93 billion annually until 2020. Much of this money is available, but it cannot be applied until the requisite business plans and feasibility studies have been developed to enable capable sponsors and funding to come together. A lack of capital to get to this stage has meant that many opportunities have not been pursued and few projects have been undertaken

by Africans or African businesses.

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THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2011

e-Business Dangers of distracted driving To some motorists, texting or calling, watching videos and eating have become a habit, notwithstanding the inherent dangers. This habit, according to the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC), has led to approximately 5,000 deaths yearly. The rate is increasing in alarming proportion, with the proliferation of smartphones.

To stem the tide, stakeholders have embarked on an awareness campaign, including setting aside 2011-2020 as a Decade of Action for Road Safety, ADLINE ATILI reports

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E’VE all shared the road at one point or another with preoccupied drivers who give a whole new meaning to the term ‘multi-tasking.’ They can do virtually anything you can think of - smoking, chatting, eating, changing diapers, reading, shaving, texting, phoning, you name it - while at the same time, driving, changing lanes and negotiating bends. However, little do these ‘multi-taskers’ know that they are not only endangering lives, but are murderers literally.

Distracted driving (the practice of driving while engaged in other activities), according to statistics, has worsened with smartphone explosion, with unintended and dangerous consequences.

We now know that mobile communications is linked to a significant increase in distracted driving, resulting in injury and loss of life.

To stem the tide, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) is working with stakeholders, safety organisations and other government agencies to inform and educate the public about the dangers of distracted driving. They are seeking legislation, as well as development of iniiatives that could reduce the incidence of distracted driving.

Last week, the commssion held a stakeholders’ workshop in collaboration with a non-governmental organisation, Arrive Alive Road Safety Initiative (AARSI) to discuss the challenge and map out intervention strategies.

NCC’s Executive Vice Chairman, Dr Eugene Juwah, in his speech , said distracted driving contributes 25 per cent to major road crashes in Nigeria. Juwah, who spoke through the commission’s Director of Consumer Affairs, Mrs Mary Uduma, noted that the enormous risk distracted driving poses to human life, prompted the United Nations Road Safety Collaboration, to launch a Decade of Action for Road Safety (2011-2020), to halt or reverse the increasing trend in road traffic deaths and injuries across the world.

According to the body, technology-caused driver distraction, is a global problem and has its stake in the more than 1.2 million people dying in road crashes each year.

The world telecom regulatory body, the International Telecommunications Union (ITU), gave this frightening statistics: dialling a hand-held device increases a driver’s chance of being involved in a vehicle crash by three times; talking while driving increases the crash risk by 1.3 times; when composing or reading text messages (SMS), drivers spend up to 400 per cent more time with their eyes off the road than they do when not texting; mobile broadband enables drivers and passengers to benefit from innovative applications and location-based services, but used at the wheel, smartphones contribute to inattention.

According to distracted-driving expert, Dr David Strayer, a cellphone might as well be a bottle of beer. “What we’re seeing in terms of

•With virtually every Nigerian owning a mobile phone, distracted driving has become a threat on the nation’s roads the crash risk when you’re texting or talking on the phone, is that it is comparable to driving when you’re drunk at a .08 blood alcohol level,” he said.

Juwah, stated that at any point in time, 1- 11 per cent of drivers are using their mobile phones and over 50 per cent at any other time. “The fact remains that when you are talking, your senses cannot concentrate on what you are doing, even the hands free does not solve the problem.” He recommended stricter enforcement of existing laws to tackle the menace, assuring that the telecom industry will continue to work with relevant organisations to reduce fatality rate.

Corroborating, Yomi Fawehinmi of Chevron Nigeria Limited, said: “With what I know of Nigerian drivers, we aren’t the best of drivers. So, if we have the worst roads in the world and nearworst driving and enforcement behaviours, what a great calamity we find ourselves in. One critical human factor is the issue of distracted driving. The cell phone is a huge distraction to any driver. Even looking at your phone while driving is a distraction.

“There is a cultural dimension to the use of cell phones regardless of the activity being undertaken in Nigeria . One, we love to communicate.

Secondly, due to culture, you are expected to pick the calls of some individuals no matter what you are doing, including driving.

“Before the GSM revolution in Nigeria, the relationship between phones and safety wasn’t critical. However with 87 million active GSM lines as at September 2011, the context has changed significantly. We don’t only have a huge number of mobile phones in Nigeria; we now have SIM cards so cheap that affordability isn’t an issue again. With this increased use of cell phones comes a need for action to ensure these gadgets don’t become tools for destruction.

“One huge deception is that the use of Bluetooth devices and other hands –free gadgets reduce this risk. Earlier studies have shown there is no appreciable difference between hand–held and

hands-free phones when it comes to crash rates.Those studies concluded that the use of a cell phone while driving-whether hands-free or hand-held-is even more dangerous than drinking and driving.”

He urged Nigerians to imbibe the culture of driving without using the mobile phone and modelling this behaviour too. He added that reinfrocement of the message with relatives and colleagues is also necessary. “We need to empower even our drivers not to pick our calls whenever they are driving,” he said.

He insisted that telecom companies were as guilty as distracted drivers, urging them to educate subscribers through campaigns and SMSs on the dangers of using the mobile phone while driving. “Telecommunications companies should think about their culpability in road crashes. They can help stem the tide by sending regular SMS to subscribers providing information on dangers of using the phone while driving. Also there can be leaflets and billboards on these issue.

“Most Telcos have done well by pushing social issues to the fore. They’ve supported football.

They could fund research into this issue. We need to get accurate data on this menace. That can help target corrective action. Telcos can also invest in technologies that deal with the issue of SMS and driving. We need such a significant step in this direction in Nigeria.”

He called for promulagtion of strict laws, strengthening of enforcement and imposition of huge monetary fines to prevent mobile phone use behind the wheels. “A way to strengthen enforcement is by executive action and leading by example. In 2006, President Obama signed an executive order asking federal employees not to text while driving government vehicles.”

Director, Government and Regulatory Affairs, Etisalat Nigeria, Ibrahim Dikko, however, disagreed on the culpability of telecom operators in incidents of distracted driving. He said: “If a mobile phone is used responsibly for what it’s

‘Telecommunications companies should think about their culpability in road crashes. They can help stem the tide by sending regular SMS to subscribers providing information on dangers of using the phone while driving’

meant for, it could be a wonderful tool. If not, it could be a terrible tool. Therefore, Telcos should not be blamed for misuse of a wonderful tool such as a mobile phone. What we should do is continue to educate and create awareness on the issue.

“At Etisalat, we’ll take this up by making use of our available value-added platforms, such as Missed Call Notification, Receiver Pays, Voicemail and so on to send periodic SMSs to subscribers and highlight the issue and ways to get around it.

There could be a ring tone that will show the caller that the mobile phone owner is driving and cannot pick the call, for instance.”

Speaking in the same vein, Managing Director, Comnavig ICT Consultants, Olufemi Adeagbo said: “Operators cannot be blamed for providing tools that enhance our productivity.

That will be akin to holding a manufacturer of a kitchen knife responsible for committing murder with the knife.”

His recommendation was clear: “Assuming persuasion and appeal moderates the use of phones while driving, we know there will still be some recalcitrant users who will continue to endanger the lives of others due to this self-imposed distracted driving. Bringing them to book is critical in curbing the menace and sending a clear signal that our society will not tolerate the endangerment of innocent lives by irresponsible drivers.”

Corps Marshall and Chief Executive, Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC), Osita Chidoka, regretted that a lot of drivers in Nigeria did not take pains to learn the rudiments of driving. He said to worsen the issue, they drive on bad roads.

Speaking through the Zonal Commander, Zone 2 (Lagos and Ogun) FRSC, Danjuma AliyuGarba, he assured that FRSC will boost its public enlightenment campaign on the dangers of distracted driving. He proposed stricter laws and regulatory environment, in addition to selfdiscipilne on the part of every road user.

He said: “These are challenges of modernisation in a culture where safety has not been imbibed by people. To cultivate it, mass education is vital. We appeal to operators: let’s not have too much of enlightenment. Please always caution subscribers on your SIM packs. We’ll get to a time when Nigerians will be more conscious of their rights and will sue if they lose loved ones.

We can only run a business or call ourselves human if we are alive. One minute of distraction can cost you your life.

“We recommend that people who work for organisations or the government who are engaged in road crashes, the government should not pay compensation. For the government, it has to be leadership by example.

“Laws on road safety must be made more pungent. Lets key into the decade of road safety action by doing what is right. One thing is selfdiscipline on the part of every driver. Enforcement is important, public enlightenment is also important but self-discipline is most important.”

Technical Director of Safety Beyond Borders, a road safety NGO, Patrick Adenusi, maintained that Telcos are not doing enough by way of enlightenment, saying: “Telcos lose money anytime somebody crashes or is incapacitated. There is virtually no enlightenment on their part. A distracted driver can even leave his lane and kill you in your house. ” He lamented that the Nigerian life has no value that is why it could be toyed with by the government. He said: “The Nigerian life has little or no value. Until we place value on human life, we’ll keep toying with lives.

“We have to start first by enlightening the public. Can you imagine we have a National Orientation Agency that is dead. We have a Ministry of Infromation that money is being allocated to every year but we don’t hear anything from them.

Ignorance is the biggest problem here and we have to deal with it through massive enlightenment of Nigerians. Did you know that according to researches, when a vehicle is driving at 50km per hour, if it hits a human, the force it releases is equivalent to 20 rifle bullets? Let’s do all we can as much as we can to make Nigerian roads safer.”

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e-Business MTN introduces Platinum Plus

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•From left: Chief Marketing Officer, MTN Nigeria, Bola Akingbade; Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Communications, Shehu Bawa and Corporate Services Executive, MTN, Akinwale Goodluck, at the launch of MTN Platinum Plus in Lagos.

Mobile broadband can boost GDP, says GSMA T

HE Global System for Mobile Communications Association (GSMA) has said Nigeria can realise $8.5 billion (N1,283 billion) in its Gross Domestic Product and $2.1 billion in tax by 2020 by supporting the roll out of mobile broadband across the country.

In a document made available to The Nation, spokesperson for GSMA, David Maila, said World Bank analysis of some countries estimates that for every 10 per cent increase in the penetration of broadband services, there is an increase in economic growth of 1.3 per cent.

According to him, release of the digital dividend and the 2.6 GHz spectrum being used in the broadcast industry is the key to unlocking this possibility.

He urged the Federal Government to give priority to releasing the spectrum bands in line with internationally harmonised band plans in order to realise the full potential of mobile broadband.

Stories by Adline Atili

Digital Dividend is the amount of spectrum that will be freed up in the switchover from analogue to digital terrestrial TV. It is located between 200 MHz and 1GHz. Maila said: “Action is required now to release the required spectrum – the digital dividend band at 700/800 MHz and the 2.6 GHz band which is being used for other purposes. These bands are complementary and so should be made available together.

“The digital dividend band is attractive because it offers good inbuilding coverage in urban areas and low cost coverage in rural areas.

Making these spectrum available will increase the capacity for effective mobile broadband subscribers in Nigeria by over three-fold in 2020.

In total, the spectrum will give operators network capacity for up to 74 million effective mobile

broadband subscribers.

“Networks will only be able to support a maximum of 16 million subscribers in the absence of the extra spectrum. The extra capacity will enable operators to offer service to support the forecast growth in the number of effective subscribers.

“The forecast broadband take up enabled by spectrum release is estimated to result in around a 1.1percentage-point increase in nonoil GDP growth by 2020. In absolute terms, this is equal to N1,283 billion.”

He, however, pointed out that without release of the necessary spectrum, mobile broadband will offer only limited capacity and coverage at high prices, adding that early spectrum release will enable mobile operators to upgrade their existing networks for mobile broadband at relatively low cost. This, according to him, means affordable pricing and strong demand.

‘Satellite will address security challenge’

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HE replacement satellite, NigComSat-1R, when launched next month, will address Nigeria’s homeland security challenge as well as enhance communication among security agencies, delegates at the stakeholders’ conference and exhibition on the satellite, have said.

In a communiqué issued at the end of the three-day conference in Lagos, the delegates urged government, Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to take advantage of NigComSat-1R to enable seamless connectivity in information flow within government circle.

They submitted that the hybrid satellite will aid law enforcement agencies in their quest to battle crime as well as provide navigational services for the aviation and maritime industries.

The communiqué highlighted the

importance of the satellite in boosting broadband penetration as well as the business opportunities it will offer when launched.

A draft of the communiqué states: “The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), the Immigration and Police Force should begin to make adequate preparation to leverage on the opportunities of NigComSat-1R in combating border crimes.

“The 102 Response Centres created by the National Emergency Management Authority (NEMA), will be highly enhanced by the NigComSat-1R. “NigComSat-1R will provide better communication means for providing adequate security in the country.

“Communications satellite services as will be provided by NigComSat-1R will boost job cre-

ation and technological innovation among Nigerians.”

Noting that delivering basic health care and education to remote and sparsely populated regions has become an almost insoluble challenge, the delegates assured that the launch of NigComSat-1R will provide much-needed bandwidth to take these services across the country.

They added that the launch of NigComSat-1R will allow opportunity of a mutual-benefit partnership. “The satellite will locally aggregate local and international content using microwave, and then multiplexing the signals before uplink is done,” they explained.

Scheduled for launch later this month, NigComSat-1R will replace NigComSat-1, which was de-orbited November 10, 2008, after it was successfully launched in 2007.

Firms unveil banking software

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OMPUTER Warehouse Group, an ICT solutions firm, in partnership with Infosys, has unveiled the Finacle version 10, the next-generation solution for banking transformation.

Finacle 10 is a universal banking solution that addresses the core banking, customer relationship management, treasury, wealth management, consumer and corporate e-banking, mobile banking, finan-

cial inclusion and Islamic banking requirements of universal, retail and corporate banks worldwide.

According to the partner firms, this latest version of Finacle, which is being used by 14 financial institutions, goes beyond technology enablement, to empowering bankers with a holistic and integrated methodology to develop improved capabilities and build a stronger and more resilient busi-

ness organisation.

Managing Director of Computer Warehouse Group, Austin Okere said: “Finacle core banking solution is a comprehensive, integrated yet modular business solution that effectively addresses the strategic day-to-day challenges faced by banks. It is highly parameterisable providing that much-needed flexibility to innovate and adapt to a dynamic environment.”

TN Nigeria has launched a loyalty programme to reward its high usage customers who spend at least N50,000 a month.

The programme, MTN Platinum Plus, is a demonstration of appreciation for customers’ patronage over the last 10 years.

Chief Executive Officer of the company, Brett Goschen, said the MTN Platinum Plus programme offers loyal customers one account with multiple privileges. He said it is designed to reward customers with various benefits and exclusive services tailored to individual lifestyle.

Members of the Platinum Plus, he said, will be entitled to treats such as choice seats at major English Premier League matches, Formula One events, boat cruises and VIP invitations to MTN global networking seminars, among other benefits.

Goschen, who spoke through the company’s Corporate Services Executive, Wale Goodluck, at the launch in Lagos, added that the customers will also benefit from the Platinum Concierge and Platinum Overdraft, which will enable them get information such as flight schedule, business and services listing at the dial of a number at competitive tariffs.

“We recognise that without your valuable patronage, we would have very little to celebrate by way of MTN’s stellar achievements in Nigeria. You are so key to the success of this great company that your contributions have inspired the creation of the MTN Platinum Plus – the foremost loyalty programme in the telecommunications industry and another first from MTN. “In addition to the benefits you get as members of Platinum Plus, we promise to join you in celebrating significant milestones in your life, such as birthdays, anniversaries and other special occasions,” he said.

The MTN boss noted that while the company is celebrating a decade of providing unparalleled telecom services to Nigeria, it would continue to invest massively in network infrastructure, innovative products and services for the benefit of its loyal subscribers.

He said: “We remain dedicated and committed to quality of service that will meet your expectations. 2012 will witness an unprecedented QoS on the MTN network.

In 2012, we’ll be deploying resources that we have not deployed in the last 10 years to ensure that we provide quality service to Nigerians.”

Reward scheme for customers

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ECHNOLOGY giants, Hewlett Packard (HP) and Microsoft have unveiled a customer awareness campaign Get it on to intensify awareness of HP products running on Microsoft’s Windows 7 operating system.

Marketing Manager, PSG at HP, Adimogo Isiakpona, said during the campaign, which will last until January next year, customers who purchase HP laptops from only HPauthorised retail outlets advertised in the promotion, will be rewarded with various items ranging from laptop bags, wireless mouse, headsets, mobile speakers, Webcam and other computer accessories.

He added that customers will also get free Microsoft Africa pack and a raffle ticket for entry into a grand draw where a lucky customer will win a brand new 2011 edition KIA RIO. Small and Medium Business Lead at Microsoft, Mark Ihimoyan said

the Microsoft Africa pack will include the trusted Microsoft Security Essentials (MSE) anti-virus software, Windows Live Essentials 2011, Office 2010 starter edition, language interface pack and local theme pack.

MSE provides protection against malware such as viruses, spyware, root kits and Trojan horses, while Windows Live Essentials (previously Windows Live Installer) is a suite of freeware applications by Microsoft that aims to offer integrated and bundled e-mail, Instant Messaging, photo sharing, blog publishing, security services and other Windows Live entities.

Office Starter 2010 on the other hand is an ad-supported product which includes Microsoft Word Starter 2010 and Microsoft Excel Starter 2010. These are reducedfunctionality versions for viewing, editing, and creating documents.

Multi-Links slashes tariff

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ODE Division Multiple Access operator, Multi-Links has introduced a breakthrough tariff plan of 10kobo per second or N6 per minute in addition to free on net calls between 10pm and 6.00am daily.

Chairman of the company, Mr Martin Dirks said the offering is part of the company’s loyalty reward to customers. He added that it is in line with the company’s commitment to providing Nigerians with reliable and affordable telecommunications services.

According to him, the pocketfriendly rate is designed to help subscribers across the country call more friends, family members and busi-

ness partners at a reduced and affordable rate.

“By lowering call rates our customers can pay less and talk more at any time of the day when calling family, friends and business partners. They don’t have to be limited to a certain number of people,” he said.

With huge terrestrial fibre optic network spanning 8,232km that provides access to several circa tower sites across major Nigerian cities, Dirks said Multi-Links is focused on improving performance through cost efficiency, selective penetration and targeting of medium to high-end customer acquisition and retention.

Osun, partners IT firm

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SUN STATE Governor Rauf Aregbesola has launched the OYES Sustainable Employment Scheme (OSES).

The OSES initiative, a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) between the state and technology firm, Chams PLC is centred on youth empowerment and employment generation.

The initiative is expected to create employment for youths across the state through deployment of 5,000 Point of Sale (PoS) terminals to beneficiaries.

The PoS terminal is a hand-held device that will enable OYES graduates vend GSM vouchers, facilitate payment of cable TV sub-

scription as well as electricity bills.

At the launch of the scheme, Aregbesola advised beneficiaries of the scheme to see the opportunity as an opening for them to be employers of labour.

He said: “This is a major breakthrough in our job creation drive, we are not just creating employment, we are out to make every beneficiary an employer of labour. This is a scheme that will guarantee you a minimum income of N40,000 when the terminals are used for the sale of airtime vouchers, mobile payment and other IT enabled services.”

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MONEY LINK

NDIC hands over Hallmark Homes to Centage Savings

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HE Nigeria Deposit Insur ance Corporation (NDIC) yesterday handed over the Hallmark Homes (Savings & Loans) Limited to Centage Savings and Loans Limited as a going concern.

The exercise, which took place Lagos, will allow the 1,630 depositors of the Hallmark Homes verify their deposits worth N752 million with the new ownership.

The Managing Director, NDIC, Umaru Ibrahim said, the handover of the firm, marked a milestone in the commitment of the corporation to its core mandate of depositors’ protection and contributing to the stability of the financial system.

He appealed to the management of the Centage Savings to

By Collins Nweze

immediately reach out to the customers of Hallmark Homes Limited on the recommencement of excellent primary mortgage services to them.

He said the corporation shall monitor Centage Savings achievement in this regard in its avowed commitment to ensuring stability in the financial system and encouraging banking habit among the public. Ibrahim said the N1.15 billion realised from the sale of assets of Hallmark Savings will be used to settle depositors of the acquired firm.

He said that the corporation acted based on its role as a risk minimiser with broader mandate that includes deposit guarantee, banking supervision, dis-

tress resolution and banking liquidation.

Hallmark Homes was a wholly owned subsidiary of Hallmark Bank Plc (in liquidation). The firm was established in 1995 as Quintessential Savings & Loans Limited.

It changed its name to Hallmark Savings and Loans in 2001 after its acquisition by Hallmark Bank Plc (in liquidation). It commenced operations as Primary Mortgage Institution also, in 2001.

The NDIC boss explained that it was the inability of Hallmark Bank Plc to recapitalise to the tune of N25 billion by 31 st December 2005 to meet the consolidation requirement as directed by the Central Bank of Nigeria

(CBN) that led to the revocation of its banking licence in 2006.

He said the corporation was subsequently appointed by the Federal High Court as liquidator to wind-up its affairs.

The revocation of the banking licence of Hallmark Bank Plc had an adverse effect on the Primary Mortgage Institutions (PMIs) because it had no banking relationship with any other

‘StanChart won’t rule out Africa acquisition’

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RITAIN’S Standard Char tered Plc will not rule out acquisitions in Africa, even as it focuses on expanding its subSaharan presence from the ground up, the bank’s recently appointed Africa CEO said.

Standard Chartered, which makes about 10 percent of its profit in Africa, is targeting Nigeria and Ghana and aims to more than double its Nigerian branch network to 75 outlets by next year, Diana Layfield told Reuters in an interview.

Layfield, appointed in June and previously the head of strategy and corporate development for the London-based bank, aims to do more project and trade finance deals in Africa.

“We absolutely would not rule out acquisitions in Africa. We always look at opportunities available in our footprint. The challenge for us is the price has to be right and the timing has to be right and the opportunity has to be right,” Layfield said at the bank’s Johannesburg’s offices.

“Typically things in Africa have not managed to stack up along

SMEs need long-term funds, says DMO

D

IRECTOR-General, Debt Management Office, DMO, Dr Abraham Nwankwo has advised Small and medium scale enterprises (SMEs) to access long-term funding from the bonds market for growth.

Speaking yesterday in Lagos, Nwankwo said the bonds market is the only viable option for SMEs to access cheaper, profitable, and long-term credits for growth.

He spoke during a workshop with the theme “Sensitising Small & Medium Enterprises (SMEs) to Opportunities for Accessing Stable Capital.” The workshop was organised by the Debt Management Office (DMO), to introduce SME owners to bond’ investments.

He said credits are inadequate to nurture the growth of small scale enterprises, adding that the credits come with huge interest

By Akinola Ajibade

rates and rigid mode of payment.

He said: “The challenge is even more worrisome in the case of SMEs, which most of you represent. The traditional sources of business finance in Nigeria are largely restricted to personal savings and scarce bank credits, which in themselves, are inadequate for nurturing a stable enterprise.

“No doubt, any business that wish to grow requires a great deal of stable, and long term capital to sustain its operations.

“This is where the domestic debt market, which the DMO and other stakeholders have laboured to develop over the last decade becomes very relevant.”

He said the domestic debt market currently presents various windows of opportunities for entrepreneurs wishing to access sta-

ble, and long-term funding.

The DMO boss said SME owners can only key into the President Jonathan Goodluck administration’s transformation agenda, by creating more jobs in the country.

According to him, SME owners would be able to create jobs when they have access to cheaper funds.

Also, the former President, National Association of Small and Medium Scale Enterprises (NASME), Dr Ike Aguda, said lack of adequate capital has impaired the growth of small and medium scale enterprises in the country.

Aguda said SME owners pay between 20-25 per cent on loans, noting that the issue resulted in their low performance.

“The maturity is too short. SMEs need access to funds with long maturity and zero interest rates to survive,” he said.

FGN BONDS Amount N

Rate %

M/Date

3-Year 5-Year 5-Year

35m 35m 35m

11.039 12.23 13.19

19-05-2014 18-05-2016 19-05-2016

Initial Current Quotation Price Market N8250.00 5495.33 N1000.00 N552.20

Amount

7.9-10% 10-11%

PRIMARY MARKET AUCTION (T-BILLS) Amount 30m 46.7m 50m

Rate % 10.96 9.62 12.34

Date 28-04-2011 “ 14-04-2011

GAINERS AS AT 7-12-11 SYMBOL ETERNAOIL RTBRISCOE UPL PRESCO CUSTODYINS DANGSUGAR NAHCO UNITYBANK GLAXOSMITH FIDSON

O/PRICE 3.15 1.17 3.59 7.74 2.14 4.31 4.75 0.51 24.50 0.99

C/PRICE 3.30 1.22 3.74 8.05 2.21 4.41 4.85 0.52 24.89 1.00

CHANGE 0.15 0.05 0.15 0.31 0.07 0.10 0.10 0.01 0.39 0.01

LOSER AS AT 7-12-11 SYMBOL OANDO DIAMONDBNK BAGCO FIDELITYBK STERLNBANK UBA IBTC ACCESS ETI LAWUNION

O/PRICE 25.51 2.63 1.67 1.27 1.07 2.37 7.21 4.50 10.39 0.60

C/PRICE 24.24 2.50 1.59 1.21 1.02 2.26 6.90 4.31 10.00 0.58

Amount

Offered ($) Demanded ($)

Price Loss 2754.67 447.80

INTERBANK RATES

Tenor 91-Day 182-Day 1-Year

those criteria.”

Banks from developed markets are increasingly scouting Africa for deals, particularly cross-border trade or funding for commodities projects. The continent remains a tough market for foreign lenders, who tend to have a limited local presence.

Standard Chartered has more than 7,000 African staff in 16 countries, mainly in sub-Saharan markets where it has a long-standing wholesale and retailing banking presence.

While Standard Chartered ranks 11th this year in investment banking fees from Africa - well behind top-ranked Morgan Stanley and second-ranked Rand Merchant Bank - the bank is a major player in project finance.

It has generated $403 million in fees from Africa project finance this year, according to Thomson Reuters data. That puts it behind only South Africa’s Standard Bank, which has brought in estimated fees of $618 million.

WHOLESALE DUTCH AUCTION SYSTEM

MANAGED FUNDS

OBB Rate Call Rate

By Daniel Essiet with agency report

DATA BANK

Tenor

NIDF NESF

bank except the defunct Hallmark Bank.

The Managing Director, Centage Savings and Loans Limited, Johnson Ndukwe said he is committed to ensuring that the acquired firm, grows to be profitable to all stakeholders.

He said that depositors in the acquired firm can now verify their deposits and continue their business with the institution.

Amount

Exchange

Sold ($)

Rate (N)

Date

450m

452.7m

450m

150.8

08-8-11

250m

313.5m

250m

150.8

03-8-11

400m

443m

400m

150.7

01-8-11

EXHANGE RATE 26-08-11 CAPITAL MARKET INDEX Currency

Year Start Offer

Current Before

C u r r e n t CUV Start After %

NGN USD

147.6000

149.7100

150.7100

-2.11

NGN GBP

239.4810

244.0123

245.6422

-2.57

NGN EUR

212.4997

207.9023

209.2910

-1.51

149.7450

154.0000

154.3000

-3.04

Bureau de Change 152.0000 (S/N)

153.0000

155.5000

-2.30

Parallel Market

154.0000

156.0000

-1.96

NSE CAP Index

NIGERIA INTER BANK (S/N)

27-10-11 N6.5236tr 20,607.37

28-10-11 N6.617tr 20,903.16

% Change -1.44% -1.44%

MEMORANDUM QUOTATIONS Name

(S/N)

153.0000

DISCOUNT WINDOW Feb. ’11

July ’11

Aug ’11

MPR

6.50%

6.50%

8.75%

Standing Lending Rate ,, Deposit Rate ,, Liquidity Ratio Cash Return Rate Inflation Rate

8.50% 4.50% 25.00% 1.00% 12.10%

8.50% 4.50% 25.00% 2.00% 12.10%

9.50% 5.50% 30.00% 2.00% 9.4%

Offer Price

Bid Price

9.17 1.00 118.85 98.43 0.76 1.04 0.88 1,642.73 8.24 1.39 1.87 7,351.90 193.00

9.08 1.00 118.69 97.65 0.73 1.04 0.87 1,635.25 7.84 1.33 1.80 7,149.37 191.08

ARM AGGRESSIVE KAKAWA GUARANTEED STANBIC IBTC GUARANTE AFRINVEST W.A. EQUITY FUND THE LOTUS CAPITAL HALAL BGL SAPPHIRE FUND BGL NUBIAN FUND NIGERIA INTERNATIONAL DEB. PARAMOUNT EQUITY FUND CONTINENTAL UNIT TRUST CENTRE-POINT UNIT TRUST STANBIC IBTC NIG EQUITY THE DISCOVERY FUND • ARM AGGRESSIVE • KAKAWA GUARANTEED

CHANGE 1.27 0.13 0.08 0.06 0.05 0.11 0.31 0.19 0.39 0.02

• STANBIC IBTC GUARANTE • AFRINVEST W.A. EQUITY FUND

NIBOR Tenor 7 Days 30 Days 60 Days 150 Days

Rate (Previous) 24 Aug, 2011 9.0417 9.6667 11.2917 12.1250

Rate (Currency) 26, Aug, 2011 10.17% 11.46% 11.96% 12.54%

Movement

OPEN BUY BACK Previous

Current

04 July, 2011

07, Aug, 2011

Bank

8.5000

8.5000

P/Court

8.0833

8.0833

Movement

56

THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2011

NEWS

Ojukwu’s funeral will unite Igbo, says MASSOB

Man, 22, hangs self in Anambra

T

HERE is tension in Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State following the discovery of the body of 22-year-old Kelechi Atuenyi.

The body was reportedly discovered in his apartment at 5 Igboukwu Street, Nkpor, near the commercial city of Onitsha.

The discovery caused tension on Tuesday among residents.

The late Atuenyi was a native of Oraeri community in Aguata Council.

Residents in the neighbourhood ran away to avoid arrest by the police.

They said Atuenyi might have killed himself out of frus-

From Adimike George, Onitsha

tration, having lost his mother a few weeks ago.

According to the sources, the deceased was the only child of his late parents. He reportedly lost his father about four years ago. He relied on his mother whom he lost a few weeks ago. Her body was still in a hospital mortuary.

It was gathered that the deceased tied a rope round his neck and another to the ceiling fan hook.

A friend found his body one hour later.

Divisional Police Officer Rowland Omatoje confirmed the incident.

L

Supreme Court hears appeal against Orji today From Kamarudeen Ogundele, Abuja

T

HE Supreme Court begins hearing today in the appeal by a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Abia State Chief Ikechi Emenike, against Governor Theodore Orji.

The appellant is praying the court to set aside the judgment of the Court of Appeal which upheld the decision of Justice Gabriel Kolawole of a Federal High Court that Orji was the authentic candidate of the party in the April 26 election.

Describing the judgment as erroneous and a miscarriage of justice, Emenike, through his lawyers; Chief U.N. Udechukwu, Adeniyi Akintola; Emeka Ngige; Abiodun Owonikoko; Yayaya Mahmood; Dr. Soni Ajala; Fabian Okonkwo and Yemi Pitan, wants the decision set aside.

According to him, Orji was still a member of the Progressive Peoples Alliance (PPA) when he got the ticket of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

“The respondents admitted this fact and agreed that the fourth respondent (Orji) flirted with the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) before he began to hobnob with the national offices of the PDP. “The respondents did not produce any evidence that the fourth respondent ever resigned from PPA or APGA or that he was ever registered with the PDP as requested under Article 8 and 10 of the constitution of the party (PDP).

Promasidor backs Onga brand ambassador

P

ROMASIDOR Nigeria Limited has said it would continue to engage Kate Henshaw-Nuttall as the ambassador of its Onga seasoning powder because she is an outstanding brand ambassador.

The management of Promasidor said it is willing to honour the existing contract with Kate, a renowned Nollywood actress, and extend the contract if it expires.

The company said it was aware of the challenges the

actress has with her marriage but would not want to dabble into her private affairs, adding that it empathised with her family at this trying time.

Kate Henshaw-Nuttall successfully participated in the just concluded Onga National Campus Cooking Competition which produced Miss Ossai Josephine, a 400 -Level student of Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, as the star winner.

•The late Ojukwu

EADER of the movement for the Actualisation of the Sovereign State of Biafra (MASSOB) Ralph Uwazuruike has said the Igbo should use the funeral of late Chukwuemeka Odumegwu-Ojukwu and come together as a people.

Uwazuruike spoke at the Enugu home of Ojukwu yesterday at the end of the seven-day prayers and mourning the group declared last week.

Uwazuruike hailed the Igbo for participating in the exercise, praising them for their support for the late Ojukwu during his stay in a London hospital.

From Chris Oji, Enugu

The MASSOB chief said the mourning and prayers were successfully observed.

He said MASSOB had planned to convene a meeting of Igbo leaders at Ojukwu’s home this month, before his death on November 26.

Uwazuruike said arrangements for Ojukwu’s funeral would be announced by his family, but that MASSOB would assist.

The National Chairman of All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) Chief Victor Umeh assured that all interested parties would be

Girl kidnapped in military barracks

T

HE Army yesterday strengthened security at the Ojo Cantonment, Lagos, after a two-year-old daughter of a Lieutenant Colonel was allegedly abducted at the barracks by suspected kidnappers on Tuesday.

A resident at the Ojo Cantonment said Tuesday’s kidnapping would be the sec-

ond abduction at the barracks within a month. A two -year-old daughter of a Major was forcefully taken away from her home four weeks ago. She has not been found.

It was learnt that the armed abductors on Tuesday left a trail of blood.

Residents now suspect they could be living with rit-

ualists or criminals.

The little girl is yet to be found.

The Army Public Relations Officer at 81 Div., Lagos, Lt.Col. Kayode Ogunsanya, confirmed the incident.

Ogunsanya said some suspects had been arrested in connection with kidnappings at the Ojo Cantonment.

RATTAWU expels eight members in Anambra E IGHT members of the Radio, Television and Theatre Arts Workers’ Union (RATTAWU) in Anambra State have been expelled by the leadership of the union over alleged court action instituted against the union.

The union said that the action of the erring members was against RATTAWU’s constitution.

Addressing reporters yesterday in Awka, the state chairman of RATTAWU, Prince Emeka Kalu, alleged that the affected members from the State Broadcasting Service and the Ministry of Information and Culture, took the union to court in contravention of its

From Nwanosike Onu, Awka

constitution.

The expelled members are: Uzochukwu Okeke, Roy Ekwunife, Nonye Ikegbunam, Ify Unachukwu, Uche Nwosu, Kate Okeke, Moses Okoye and Duke Ofili.

The expelled members allegedly disobeyed the union during the strike over the N18000 minimum wage, it was learnt.

They allegedly accused the chairman of the union of telling the national leadership of RATTAWU that the strike was

sponsored by the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN).

“The expelled members allowed themselves to be used to destabilise RATTAWU. “They were sacked for taking the union to court without exploiting all the avenues for resolving labour matters.

They were holding meetings without permission from the leadership of the union.

“The state council of RATTAWU had at all times fought for the welfare of its members in the five chapters of the union, but it is regrettable that internal wrangling within the union had beclouded the sense of reasoning of some members,” he said.

involved in Ojukwu’s funeral.

Umeh said the Igbo would continue to mourn their late leader.

He said Ojukwu’s family and other stakeholders had commenced plans to give him a befitting burial, adding that his children have returned from London.

Uwazuruike left Ojukwu’s home yesterday following Bianca’s arrival.

He had been there since Ojukwu’s death was announced, receiving sympathisers on behalf of the family.

Adamawa Assembly divided Barnabas Manyam, Yola

POLICE yesterday maintained their presence at the Adamawa House of Assembly The legislators also remain divided over the impeachment of former Speaker Sadiq Ibrahim Dasin and his deputy, Mrs Wale Fwa. Eight members are behind the impeached speaker, including the member representing Toungo constituency who said his signature was obtained under duress during the impeachment process.

Speaker Ahmadu Umar presided over the Assembly with 17 members at a location outside the Assembly complex.

The Speaker maintained that the change in the leadership was not targeted at Governor Murtala Nyako but was purely the business of the House because the former Speaker was incapable of running the House with his deeply religious bias.

THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2011

57

58

THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2011

NEWS

No apology over same-sex bill, says Fed Govt HE Federal Government has urged countries bashing Nigeria over the passage of the bill banning same sex marriage to respect the sovereignty of the country.

Minister of Information Labaran Maku said as long as the law was made in accordance with the country’s culture and value, Nigeria owes nobody any apology.

Maku said the issue was not deliberated at yesterday’s Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting, which lasted about seven hours. He said although Senate’s passage of th bill does not make it a law, Nigeria reserves the right to make laws based on the people’s values and culture.

He said huge cultural differences between Europe, America and Africa make some of the things that are

T

•Approves N36.6b contracts •To build federal secretariats in Anambra, Bayelsa, Gombe, Osun, Nasarawa From Vincent Ikuomola, Abuja

considered fundamental rights abroad offensive to African culture and tradition.

Maku also noted that foreign countries that are not happy with laws made in Nigeria are free to express their views but advised that they should also know how our democracy works.

“Let me say this. The reported comments by the United States Government about our proposed law by the Senate about same sex marriage in Nigeria has not fully come to government for a position. But let me say this. We live in a democracy; we live in a free country; we live in an

independent country. And in every democracy, as you know, there are institutions, there are laws and there are cultures. There are beliefs and values in every nation.

“Relating to the law that is being proposed by the Senate, as you know, the Senate has passed a version of a law relating to same sex marriages. That law has not yet gone through House of Representatives, not to talk of becoming a law that will be forwarded to the President for assent. It is a process that is going on normally through the Nigerian legislature. The same way every law is passed in every democracy. We have not reached that point where it has become a law.

“But even if it does become law, as you do know, Nigeria reserves the right as an independent nation to live under laws that are democratically passed by the National Assembly. If in the end it becomes law, it will become the law of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. If the President assents to it, it will become law. If it doesn’t, then if the National Assembly is able to muster two-thirds majority to pass it into law, it becomes law.

“But let me make the point clear: our country is an independent countr.

We reserve the right to make our laws without apology to other coun-

tries.”

The Federal Executive Council (FEC) yesterday approved N36.6billion for contracts for various projects.

The projects include the N1.6 billion for the upgrade and replacement of navigational aides in five major airports in the country. The airports, according to Minister of Aviation, Mrs Stella OduahOgiemwonyi, are Enugu, Kano, Kaduna, Abuja and Ilorin.

The replacement and upgrade are expected to commence immediately.

She said the council also approved the purchase of fire fighters at the nation’s airports for N300 million.

ACF, politicians berated for North’s problems

A

FORMER presidential aspirant of the defunct Social Democratic Party (SDP) during the aborted Third Republic, Mallam Umaru Mohammed Maizabura, has lambasted the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), northern politicians and opinion leaders from the region for convening a selfseeking conference for political relevance in the guise of searching for peace and security.

He noted that since the demise of Sir Ahmadu Bello, the Premier of Northern Nigeria, several dec-

From Joseph Abiodun, Maiduguri

ades ago, the region has not been peaceful.

Addressing reporters in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital, Maizabura described the Kaduna conference as belated and lacking genuine concern for return of unity, peace and security in the region.

He noted that the North no longer speaks with one voice because politicians have polarised the residents along tribal and religious divide for their selfish ambitions.

For the North to make

progress, Maizabura said those in the forefront of political leadership must eschew tribal and religious sentiments, provide purposeful leadership and create jobs for the youths, rather than deploy retrogressive initiatives that drag the region backwards.

He, however, praised former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, for providing purposeful leadership for enhancing the country’s and North’s progress.

The former presidential candidate urged upcoming northern leaders to emulate the leadership virtues of the

Obasanjo to opposition: accept Kogi poll’s result in good faith

F

ORMER President Olusegun Obasanjo yesterday urged opposition parties, which lost in last Saturday’s governorship election in Kogi State, to accept the result in good faith.

Obasanjo told reporters in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital, that the victory of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Cpt. Idris Wada (rtd), was a reflection of the “wishes of the people”.

“The results clearly showed that PDP is ahead of the opposition in Kogi State,” he said.

Wada’s closest rival and candidate of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), Prince Abubakar Audu who was defeated by over 60 per cent of total valid votes, is kicking

From Ernest Nwokolo, Abeokuta

against the poll’s result.

Obsanjo said: “There is no way you can take the wishes and aspiration of the people away in a free and fair election. That was what actually happened in Kogi State on Saturday. It is a result the opposition should take and accept in good stride.”

The Chairman of the Board of Trustees of PDP said the cries by the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) that they were rigged out scientifically was an afterthought.

“They will always come up with excuses when PDP defeat them. But, unfortunately, they do not ascribe any name to the local government elections in Lagos State. May be that should be called ‘unscientific’”.

Funeral for family matriarch

•The late Mrs Ajakaiye-Obadan

T

HE family of Obadan of Oke-Ora, Edo State, has announced the death of its matriarch, Madam Eunice Olakunbi Ajakaiye-Obadan.

She was 87.

She died on November 8 at her home at Arolu Monatan, Ibadan, Oyo State.

The late Mrs. AjakaiyeObadan is survived by a brother, Mr. Victor Atilola Ishola; a sister, Mrs. Bisi Ajayi; children and grandchildren and great grandchildren.

A statement by the family described the deceased as a devout Christian and caring mother.

She was born on October 1, 1924 to Mr. Frances Ishola and Mrs. Morenike Aduni Ishola (nee Kuye), both devout Christians, of the Oduyoye compound in ItaLajoda, Ijebu-Ode, Ogun

State.

She attended St. Peter’s Primary School, Aremo, Ibadan; Kudeti Girls’ School (now St. Annes’ School), Molete, Ibadan; and later Wesley College, Elekuro, Ibadan, where she trained as a teacher.

The late Mrs AjakaiyeObadan taught in some primary schools in Ibadan, retired and had a stint in business, trading in bakery items.

She later worked in the Catering Department of the then University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University), Ile-Ife, Osun State, as a pioneer staff. She retired voluntarily in 1983.

former Head of State.

Maizabura hailed the National Assembly for legislating against same sex marriage in Nigeria, despite the negative influence of some Western countries, including Britain.

He urged well-meaning Nigerians to support the presidential ambition of General Muhammed Buhari ahead of the 2015

presidential race.

The National Chairman of the proscribed National Democratic Liberty (NDLP) said Buhari deserves Nigerians’ support because he has demonstrated good leadership virtues when he was a Head of State; Governor of old Borno State; Minister of Petroleum Resources and Chairman of the Petroleum Trust Fund (PTF).

Gowon, Gana, Lar for Aku memorial lecture From Uja Emmanuel, Makurdi

FORMER Head of State Gen. Yakubu Gowon; former Information Minister, Prof Jerry Gana; and former Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) National Chairman, Chief Solomon Lar, are among eminanent Nigerians billed to attend a memorial lecture in honour of the first civilian governor of Benue State, Mr Aper Aku. The late Aku died on November 14, 1987.

The president of Foundation for Patriotism, Discipline and Morality (FDPM), Dr Bem Ugoh, organisers of the lecture, said the event is to immortalise the late governor for his contribuations to Benue State.

Bauchi lawmaker dies at 42 From Austine Tsenzughul, Bauchi

THE Bauchi State House of Assembly member representing Sakwa Constituency in Zaki Local Government Area, Haladu Jalli, died yesterday at Azare, the headquarters of Katagum Local Government Area of the state.

He died at the age of 42 years, after a brief illness.

59

THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2011

NEWS

Police kill two robbery suspects in Rivers

T

HE police in Rivers State have killed two robbery suspects in Gokana Local Government.

The police also arrested six suspected hoodlums and rescued two kidnap victims.

It was learnt that the owner of a filling station sent a distress call to the Kpor Police Division that four robbers were attacking his station.

The Divisional Police Officer (DPO) and his team were engaged in a gun battle with the robbers.

Police spokesman Ben Ugwuegbulam said two suspected robbers were killed.

They were identified as Bariyima and Alagba.

Court orders rerun in Rivers East From Clarice Azuatalam, Port Harcourt

T

HE Appeal Court sitting in Port Harcourt yesterday ordered a rerun election in Rivers East Senatorial District within 90 days.

The order was given following the dismissal of an appeal by Senator George Thompson Sekibo of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Sekibo sought the dismissal of the October 24 judgment of the Elections Petition Tribunal, which nullified his re-election.

Justice M.D. Mohammed yesterday upheld the judgment of the tribunal, which ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct a rerun into the Rivers East senatorial district within 90 days.

According to Mohammed, the ruling was based on evidences which showed that a party and its candidate were excluded from the April 9 National Assembly election.

To correct this anomaly, the Federal High Court in Abuja had, on April 7, ordered INEC to put the party’s name on the ballot materials.

Mohammed yesterday said “ignoring the April 7 order by INEC is an abuse of court process.

“Nothing can be more devastating than to exclude a candidate, duly nominated by his party, from an election.

“The respondent has cause to complain of unlawful exclusion from the April 9 election.

“The order of the Federal High Court, Abuja, was served on INEC on April 8.

“There is no evidence of appeal. So, since the order is yet to be vacated, the judgment of the lower court is hereby upheld. INEC is under obligation to comply with the order.”

The three- man election tribunal, headed by Justice Veronica Umeh had, on October 24, nullified the re-election of Sekibo, the candidate of the PDP and ordered INEC to conduct a re-run within three months The decision of the tribunal followed a petition, by Leslie Chizi Michaels-Atata and his party, the Action Alliance (AA), challenging their exclusion from the election, despite an order by an Abuja Federal High Court.

•Six arrested •Two kidnap victims rescued

Kidnappers release doctor R Chituru Orluwene, Head of Chemical Pathology of the University of Port Harcourt, who was kidnapped on Monday has been released.

Orluwene told The Nation he was released at about 10pm on Tuesday in Omagwa, Ikwerre Local Government after his family paid N2million.

He said the ransom was paid because the kidnappers threatened to kill him.

D

From Bisi Olaniyi, Port Harcourt

One AK-47 rifle; four live and five expended ammunition as well as a locally-made

From Clarice Azuatalam, Port Harcourt

Orluwene said his family had to raise the money to save his life.

On why he was kidnapped, the doctor said he did not know because he is not a politician but a doctor who has been saving lives.

Orluwene said the kidnappers initially demanded N20million but came down to N2million when they noticed he could not afford it.

revolver were recovered.

Ugwuegbulam said Alagba was dressed in full military camouflage.

At Rukpakrushi New Lay-

out in Port Harcourt, a Special Area Division patrol team rescued Achipong who was attacked with machetes by four hoodlums on his

way home.

Achipong’s phone and wallet were stolen. The four suspects were later arrested.

A joint patrol team also rescued two kidnap victims.

Chidi and Chinedu were kidnapped by three armed men while returning from a meeting.

Following investigation and information, the police raided the kidnappers’ hideout on Iwofe Road in Port Harcourt, where Chinedu was rescued.

Two suspects, Emeka and Nkwegu, were arrested.

The other victim (Chidi), who had earlier escaped from the hoodlums, according to Ugwuegbulam, was also rescued.

UNIBEN crisis over ASUU strike persists HE leadership crisis rocking the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), University of Benin (UNIBEN) branch, is far from over.

Some lecturers have refused to comply with the strike called by the national body of the association.

The lecturers said they were protesting the imposition of Dr. Anthony Emina as the chapter’s chairman.

Students were receiving lectures yesterday.

A lecturer, Dr. Edoba Omoregie of the Faculty of Law, told his students that they should come for lectures.

Omoregie said he recognised the leadership of Dr. Emmanuel Irabor and not the executive he alleged was imposed on them by the national body.

His words: “Lectures are going on because some of us are at loggerheads with

T

‘Lectures are going on because a sizeable number of us are at daggers drawn with the National Executive because it has imposed a local executive on us’ From Osagie Otabor, Benin

the National Executive because it has imposed a local executive on us.

“There is a pending litigation against that imposition.

Irabor was unjustly set aside by the national executive.

“The national union tried to truncate the process of selection of the Vice Chancellor. Many of us kicked

Ex-militants protest over unpaid allowances • Block East-West road From Kazeem Ibrahym, Uyo

S

CORES of youths claiming to be ex-militants marched on the streets yesterday to protest the noninclusion of their names in the training by the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs.

The youths, mainly from Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa and Delta states, blocked a portion of the East-West road in Urue Offong/Oruko Local Government of Akwa Ibom State.

The placard-carrying youths were also protesting the non-payment of their nine months allowances.

Some of the inscriptions on the placards said: “If government cannot pay us after training us, we will go back to the creeks and continue from where we stopped; Enough is enough, since the government can cheat us and treat us like that, we in turn will pay back.

“Government should pay our money for peace to reign. A word is enough for the wise.”

Their spokesman, General Andrew Joel from the Bakassi Freedom Movement Camp, said: “We want the Federal Government to know that we are dying of hunger.

“During the election, a governor trained us and after the training, he pleaded with us to give him some time that he would transfer us to the Federal Government after election.

“We don’t want to go back to the creeks, but if the Federal Government wants us to commit crimes, it should come and collect its certificates from us to go back to our normal system.

“My boys are saying they want to go back to the creeks and I cannot control them. They are about 558. We were trained and later dumped for unknown reasons.”

against it . They used every means to truncate the process.

“We were of the view that the union should stay away but they did everything to truncate the process “The union has been used to serve devilish means on this campus.

“In that atmosphere, there is no way you can have a national strike that will be duly complied with here.

“I have resolved that I shall proceed with my lectures here. Joining a strike is voluntary.

“I am withdrawing my allegiance to national ASUU

because it has not resolved the ASUU crisis in this institution.”

But Emina said the protesting lecturers are part of a “dissident group” which wants to continue a struggle that has been resolved.

He said Omoregie was removed as Secretary because he sabotaged a strike called by the national body.

“He is doing that to attract unnecessary attention.

There was an election conducted.

“National does not support imposition. I am the recognised authority on this campus,”Emina said.

Oshiomhole’s wife extolled THE Catholic Bishop of Auchi Diocese in Edo State, Rev. Gabriel Dunia, has described the late Mrs. Clara Oshiomhole as a woman, whose good works will live on and impact positively on others.

Mrs. Oshiomhole was the wife of Governor Adams Oshiomhole.

Speaking at the first year memorial service in Benin, yesterday, the cleric said Mrs. Oshiomhole was humility personified and lived a fulfilled Christian life.

According to him, those who were close to her testified to her kindness and how she used her godly virtues to impact positively on those who came her way.

"Memorials can be great propellers in our life. This first anniversary will propel many of us to live a life that is worthy.

“She was a very good example of living a godly life," Rev Dunia said.

•The late Mrs Oshiomhole

THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2011

60

FOREIGN NEWS

Israeli ex-President Katsav begins jail term for rape

T

HE disgraced former Israeli President, Moshe Katsav, has arrived at Maasiyahu prison near Tel Aviv to begin a seven-year sentence for rape.

Leaving his home in the town of Kiryat Malachi, he insisted he was innocent and accused the state of “executing” him and “burying a man alive”.

Katsav’s case has entranced and horrified the Israeli nation.

He was convicted a year ago, but was allowed to remain free while he appealed against the conviction.

Katsav, who turned 66 on Monday, resigned from the largely ceremonial post of president two weeks before his seven-year term was to expire in 2007, under a plea bargain that would have allowed him to escape a prison sentence.

But he then rejected the deal

he had struck with prosecutors, vowing to prove his innocence in court.

In November, the Supreme Court unanimously upheld his conviction for raping a former employee when he was a cabinet minister in the 1990s, and for sexually harassing two other women while president.

“Moshe Katsav will go to jail as planned and will receive the same conditions as other prisoners,” Israel’s minister for internal security, Yitzhak Aharonovich, told Israel Radio on Tuesday.

Katsav will be placed in a wing at Maasiyahu that is reserved for observant Jews, and will share a cell with ex-government minister Shlomo Benizri in a move intended to ease his transition, reports say.

He will be assigned a special warden to ensure he does not attempt suicide, Prisons Service chief Aharon Franco

told a Knesset hearing on Tuesday, according to the Jerusalem Post. Katsav’s lawyers have expressed concerns about his state of mind.

Moshe Katsav left his home in the south of Israel, shouting to waiting reporters that he was innocent Inmates in the religious section at Maasiyahu rise at 04:30, attend morning prayers and spend much of their time in religious study, with no access to television.

After serving a quarter of his sentence, Katsav could become eligible for spells of leave away from prison and could even apply to have his term reduced, the Associated Press news agency quoted Prisons Service spokeswoman Sivan Weizman as saying.

But he would have to admit guilt and express remorse, she said - something he has so far refused to do.

Mexico ‘stops entry’ of Libya’s Saadi Gaddafi

T

HE Mexican authorities say they have stopped a plot by a criminal organisation to smuggle one of the sons of Libya’s ex-leader Col Muammar Gaddafi into the country.

Saadi Gaddafi has been under house arrest in the West African state of Niger since he fled Libya in September.

A spokeswoman for the Mexican government said Saadi Gaddafi and some members of his family were

stopped as a result of intelligence reports.

Several people have been arrested.

Mexican officials said the plot - uncovered on 6 September - involved false names and documents.

Mexican Interior Secretary Alejandro Poire said the plan involved a criminal ring “of international dimensions,” but it was uncovered in September before it could be carried out.

The ring involved people from several different coun-

tries, including Mexico, Denmark and Canada, Mr Poire told a news conference in Mexico City.

They were buying safe houses and opening bank accounts, he said.

On 14 September - eight days after the Mexican plot was uncovered - Niger said Saadi Gaddafi, 38, arrived in the capital, Niamey.

He was reported to have been flown in on a military transport plane from the town of Agadez in the north of the country.

Syria’s Assad denies ordering deadly crackdown

S

YRIA’S president denied he ordered the deadly crackdown on a nearly nine month-old uprising in his country, claiming he is not in charge of the troops behind the assault.

Speaking to ABC’s Barbara Walters in a rare interview yesterday, President Bashar Assad maintained he did not give any commands “to kill or be brutal.”

“They’re not my forces,” Assad responded when asked if Syrian troops had cracked down too hard on protesters.

“They are military forces (who) belong to the government. I don’t own them. I’m president. I don’t own the country.”

In his role as president, Assad is the commander of Syria’s armed forces.

The United Nations esti-

mates more than 4,000 people have been killed in Syria since the uprising began in March, many of them civilians and unarmed protesters demanding Assad’s ouster.

“Who said the United Nations is a credible institution?”

Assad said, when Walters asked him about allegations of widespread violence and torture.

“We don’t kill our people,” said Assad, a 46-year-old, British-trained eye doctor. “No government in the world (kills) its people unless it is led by a crazy person.”

Syria has banned most foreign journalists and prevents the work of independent media, making witness reports and accounts from activist groups a key channel of information. Amateur videos posted online have shown

•Assad

police and pro-regime militias opening fire on protesters.

State Department spokesman Mark Toner said Assad was trying to shirk responsibility.

“I find it ludicrous that he is attempting to hide behind some sort of shell game but also some sort of claim that he doesn’t exercise authority in his own country,” Toner said.

Gorbachev calls for new election in Russia

F

ORMER Soviet President Mikhail Gorbachev has said Sunday’s Russian parliamentary election was marred by fraud and has called for a re-run.

“The country’s leaders must admit there were numerous falsifications and rigging and the results do not reflect the people’s will,” he said.

Protesters were planning new rallies for Saturday as arrests in Tuesday’s crackdown in reached 800 across Russia.

Key figures in the protest movement are starting 15day jail sentences.

State TV channels have ignored the protests, giving coverage only to rallies in support of the government.

The centre of Moscow saw its biggest protest against the rule of Prime Minister Vladimir Putin and his allies in years on Monday, when several thousand people came out to condemn widely reported fraud at Sunday’s parliamentary elections.

An attempt to hold a smaller rally on Tuesday was quickly broken up by riot police, while rival rallies by Putin supporters were allowed to proceed.

The big question now is whether the fledgling protest movement can maintain its momentum, the BBC’s Daniel Sandford reports from Moscow.

While the movement began as a protest against the election results, most of the slogans have been against Mr Putin, our correspondent adds.

The Russian prime minister, who formally registered on Wednesday to stand in the March presidential election, has played down losses by his party, United Russia, which saw its support drop sharply to just under 50% of the vote.

THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2011

61

NEWS

Boko Haram: Why Konduga will serve term in SSS custody •Continued from page 4

The National Coordinator and Executive Secretary of the council, Prof Isaq Oloyede, read the communiqué.

The communiqué reads: “The Boko Haram menace and other security threats in the country must be effectively addressed by all means. Shedding the blood of innocent persons is an abomination before God and clearly condemned by our faiths. It is also a crime against the laws of the nation. Anyone found culpable should be charged under the criminal/penal code with murder.

“The council calls for a general review of security administration for effect and commends the Senate for passing the Bill against same sex marriage because the practice offends the moral sensibility of our people. Council urges the House of Representatives to promptly follow suit. Council urges the government not to succumb to pressure from any external group to undermine the shared values of the country.

“The council strongly condemns corruption and urges the government to vigorously address the menace. Council calls on government and the private sector to create jobs for the teeming youth and reduce poverty in the land.

“Council appeals to the Federal Ministry of Education to effect the directive of government that the teaching of Christian Religious/ Islamic Studies should be compulsory in primary and secondary schools to curb anti social behaviour among the youth and emphasise that War Against Indiscipline and Corruption should be re-launched and vigorously prosecuted in Nigeria.

Council also advocates the re-introduction of projects and programmes to strengthen family values as a basis for building a strong and disciplined society.

“On the strike by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Council appeals to ASUU to suspend its strike and avoid unnecessary disruption of the university education in the country. The government should re-appraise the issue/accord reached and implement same without further delay.”

The communiqué also urged Christians and Muslims and especially religious leaders to continue to dialogue in order to promote peace and religious harmony. It appealed to religious leaders and stakeholders to avoid provocative or reckless preaching and utterances which are inimical to peace and harmony in the country.

Council equally “appreciates the President for addressing the council on the issue of fuel deregulation and urges the government to carry out wider consultations with other stakeholders.”

•Edo State Governor Adams Oshiomhole(left) his first daughter, Dr Winifred Owumi, her husband, Mr Aduvie Owumi and second daughter, Mrs Jane Aduku at the memorial mass for Oshiomhole’s late wife Clara at St Paul’s Catholic Church, Benin City...yesterday

Govt, ASUU parley deadlocked

T

HE strike by varsity lecturers is not about to end. A meeting between the Federal Government and the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) last night ended in a stalemate.

Minister of Labour and Productivity Chief Emeka Wogu, said the 10hour meeting held at the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) office in Abuja was adjourned indefinitely.

“We adjourned.” Very soon, we are meeting again. I will let you know.”

From John Ofikhenua, Abuja

The minister said the meeting was adjourned “because it is getting late.

We have been there for over 10 hours.

The issues are being resolved. They are being resolved take it.”

ASUU President Prof. Ukachukwu Awuzie refused to comment on the outcome of the meeting. Hesimply rushed into a white bus. And as reporters rushed towards him for comments, he zoomed off in the vehicle.

But Minister of Education, Prof Rukayattu Rufai, explained that the agreement which the Federal Gov-

ernment had with the lecturers could not reach a reasonable level of implementation even after two months because the governing council was dissolved.

She noted that government has now agreed to reconstitute the committee to implement the agreement.

According to her, the committee has been expanded to include the Federal Ministry of Finance, the Budget Office and the Ministry of Labour and Productivity.

Rufai said: “The committee is in the hands of the SGF. I cannot just say it will do this today or tomorrow.”

THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2011

62

NATION SPORT

Manchester disaster in Champions League Senate blasts players,

B

ASEL stunned Manchester United 2-1 to send last season's runners-up out of the Champions League at the group stage yesterday.

Striker Marco Streller struck in the ninth minute after poor goalkeeping from David De Gea and Alexander Frei scored late in the game as the Swiss champions took the second qualifying place in Group C. The English pulled back a consolation goal through Phil Jones one minute from time.

United striker Wayne Rooney continued his unhappy run with several misses in a generally lacklustre performance by the Premier League side, who were left to contemplate the unglamorous Europa League.

It was only the third time in 17 Champions League participations that United had failed to get past the group stage.

Needing only a draw, United were quickly in trouble when De Gea flapped at Shapiro's powerful low cross from the left and it fell perfectly for Streller, who scored from close range despite gas-fitting his shot.

United created more chances as the half wore on and Nani's dangerous cross from the right had the Basel defence in trouble but neither Rooney nor Jisung Park could make contact.

Ryan Gigs wrong-footed the defence with a neat pass to Rooney whose shot on the turn was well-saved by Somber,

then Nani's shot was blocked by a defender as the ball fell loose to the Portuguese winger.

Basel striker Shari tested De Gea with a powerful drive in stoppage time as the hosts continued to threaten in attack.

Meanwhile, crosstown rivals Manchester City beat a weakened Bayern Munich side 2-0 but it was not enough to stop the Champions League debutants making a groupstage exit.

City, needing a win as well as Napoli to drop points at Villarreal in order to progress, went on the offensive from the start against the Group A winners but had to wait until the 36th minute for their opener.

It came with David Silva's low shot from 20 metres out after a

Aneke gets two-year Gent deal

N

PL hotshot Jude Aneke will depart Nigeria for Belgium today to sign a twoyear contract with Belgian club KAA Gent.

“I would have left for Belgium on Wednesday after I got my visa the previous

day, but my flight from Abuja was cancelled,” Aneke told MTNFootball.com “I have a two-year contract with Gent. I’m really excited with this opportunity and I promise to make the most of it.”

Aneke set a new goals

record in the Nigeria Premier League when he scored 20 goals for Kaduna United this past season.

The previous record was held by Ahmed Musa, who scored 18 goals for Kano Pillars in the previous season.

neat flick by Edin Dzeko, who was the provider for their second, seven minutes after the restart, as his pass found a charging Yaya Toure who finished calmly.

City achieved their part of the equation that would take them through alongside Bayern but with Napoli winning 2-0 at Villarreal it was not enough for the English side, who now go through to the Europa League round of 32.

City manager Roberto Mancini showed his intention to attack by naming Samir Nasri, David Silva, Sergio Aguero and Edin Dzeko in the starting lineup and the quartet were involved in nearly every move forward.

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE RESULTS

Man City 2 - 0 Bayern. M Villarreal 0 - 2 Napoli Inter Milan1 - 2 CSKA Lille 0 - 0Trabzonspor Basel 2 - 1 Man Utd. Benfica 1 - 0 OtelulGalati Ajax 0 - 3 Real Madrid D. Zagreb1 - 7 Lyon

coaches for woes

T

HE sports and social development committee of the Nigerian Senate Wednesday blamed unpatriotic players and coaches who lack fresh ideas for the country’s recent poor results.

The committee therefore charged the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to restrategize and focus more on home-based players, while also re-orientating players who represent Nigeria on the need for patriotic fervour and total commitment.

Speaking during a meeting with the leadership of NFF at the National Assembly, chairman of the committee, Senator Adamu Gumba and his members largely absolved the NFF of blame over recent setbacks by the National Teams, saying coaches who lack fresh ideas and players who lack patriotism have failed the nation.

Gumba said: “We are aware that the NFF did its very best to provide support and other things for the U-23 Team that campaigned for Olympic Games ticket in Morocco, as well as the Super Eagles and

the Super Falcons that also faltered.

“The blame should go to the players and the coaches for not measuring up”.

Committee member Alkali Jajere lamented the over-reliance on foreign-based footballers, saying the NFF must now focus on the home-based players and work hard on grassroots development programmes.

“We are down now, but there is no need apportioning blame. The NFF have seen their own shortcomings and must be ready to put their house in order, because football is the principal thing that binds us together as Nigerians.

Our people cannot continue to suffer heartaches now and again.

“The foreign-based players show disdain to representing the nation. They are more concerned with keeping away from injuries to keep their places in their European clubs than to work hard for Nigeria on the field.”

Another member, Senator Abdul Ningi, expressed disgust at the lackadaisical attitude of players who represent Nigeria in Morocco.

THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2011

63

Tomorrow in THE NATION

www.thenationonlineng.net

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2011 TRUTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM

‘‘Bet you can feel it now, even as you read; that flagrant, scented stench of putrefaction that announces our innate nature. Feel it now; that you may remember this stench when everybody and everything are shed of trait, in that dreaded epoch when Nigeria gives to rancidness and collapse’

OLATUNJI OLOLADE

VOL. 7, NO.1,968

C OMMENT & D EB ATE EBA

•Continued from November 24

DAPO FAFOWORA

D

URING the regime of President Obasanjo there was a series of sharp increases in the price of oil in the domestic market. In fact, in his own case he did not make a public issue of the subsidy.

He simply used administrative measures to address the problem. In view of the public opposition to the planned oil subsidy proposal, as well as the possible confrontation with the National assembly over the issue, President Jonathan is being advised by his senior officials not to refer the planned removal of the oil subsidy to the National Assembly, but to apply measures similar to those taken by President Obasanjo to get his oil policy through.

Whether or not he decides to seek the direct support of the National Assembly on the matter he is likely to have his way and proceed in the first quarter of next year to end the so-called oil subsidy. In fact, it is unlikely that the National Assembly will carry its opposition to the point where it could lead to a serious confrontation with the President. After all, the National Assembly is still dominated by the PDP, the President’s Party.

But before deciding finally to remove the oil subsidy the President must seriously consider the social and economic consequences involved for the nation as oil pump prices could rise above N150 per litre, more than twice its current price, making it unaffordable to the public. It will increase the economic burden of the poor. The rich ought to be made to share more in the financial burden of necessary adjustments in the economy. Why has the Federal Government not introduced the necessary taxation on private properties to generate additional income as an alternative to the removal of the oil subsidy? If the subsidy is removed the cost of public transportation, already high, will increase significantly and put financial pressure on the poor. It will worsen the mass poverty in the nation. This could lead to a massive confrontation with the Labour Unions, students, the press, and small scale businesses with labour strikes right across the nation. It will lead to another round of demands for wage increases at a time when the governments of the federation are still reeling from the financial consequences of the recent wage increases which some states have refused to pay. It will add to the existing inflationary pressures on the domestic economy and lead to substantial increases in the cost of doing business in the country, already high. The severe economic dislocation that this scenario will generate is something that the President must carefully think about to avoid a socio-political crisis that he can ill afford.

FROM THE SUMMIT dapo.fafowora@thenationonlineng.net

Before oil subsidy removal

• Dr. Jonathan

The President has assured the nation that savings from the removal of the oil subsidy will be used for infrastructure development.

But there is growing public scepticism about this assurance as all such previous assurances by former governments were not fulfilled.

Instead, savings from the increase in oil price simply disappeared or were utilised for the expansion of the public sector. So, the public’s distrust of the President’s assurances in this regard should be fully understood as it is based on existing doubts that this President will, this time, be able to keep his promise to the nation. The budgetary process is such that regardless of the preferences of the President the senior bureaucrats will find ways of diverting the savings from the removal of the oil subsidy to expenditure on non-productive sectors of the economy. Yet, to reduce mass unemployment in the nation any savings now should

RIPPLES KADUNA BOMBING: I’M ON TOP, SAYS JONATHAN

Now...get to the bOTTOM!

‘Great tact and prudence is required in handling this issue of the oil subsidy. There is no reason why the oil subsidy cannot be removed gradually, in phases, say over a period of three to four years, starting with the first quarter of next year when 20 per cent of the subsidy may be cut’ be used to finance public sector projects, particularly on the infrastructure, to create jobs. More roads and bridges are needed all over the country and this is where any savings from the oil subsidy should be usefully applied.

It is sometimes argued that subsidies are outdated and are being eliminated in many foreign countries including the advanced economies, most of which are now in deep trouble as they are unable to pay back their foreign debts. But this claim is not wholly true as many of the western economies continue to be subsidised by their governments.

Even in the USA, the citadel and apostle of unbridled capitalism and so-called market forces, large sections of the domestic economy, including housing and agriculture, are still being heavily subsidised by the government. In Britain, despite the brave efforts of the Conservative govern-

HARDBALL

I

N a classic role reversal, Nigerian rulers, rather than the oppressed masses, have begun to warn of revolution if socio-economic conditions remained unchanged for much longer. First to issue the dire warning was President Goodluck Jonathan himself, quite characteristically and in his engagingly boyish and innocent style. If jobs were not urgently created for Nigeria’s teeming unemployed youths, said the president apocalyptically in Lokoja, Kogi State, during the closing moments of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) campaign for the governorship race, revolution was inescapable. He forgets that if youths are jobless today, then the PDP shares the largest part of the blame, having been in government in Abuja for nearly 13 years since the end of military rule. Though it amounted to selfindictment, the president’s observation was nonetheless right.

Jonathan hinges the solution to joblessness on his transformational agenda, which he said would acquire wings next year. We’ll have to wait and see. But as if on cue, the boisterous former president, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, in Abeokuta, Ogun State, also

ment to cut the current huge budget deficits, public transportation, health, housing, and other social services are still being heavily subsidised. And all over Europe and the USA the effort by the governments to cut public spending and reduce budget deficits has led to widespread demonstrations and protests with the physical occupation by the protesters of major public buildings and institutions. In Nigeria, no one can seriously claim that there is really any reasonable measure of subsidy that the public enjoys. This is, by no means, a welfare state.

There is no subsidy on housing, public transportation, and energy. In fact the cost of electricity has been significantly increased recently. The governments of the federation will argue that the so-called free education being offered in primary and secondary schools represents some element of subsidy. But the truth is that in both the health and education sectors most people prefer to send their wards to private schools and hospitals where service delivery is better.

With the exception of Lagos State, public transportation is not subsidised elsewhere in the nation. And the removal of the oil subsidy will definitely add to the cost of transportation in the country. Food and housing costs will increase vastly despite the fall in the per capita income that the removal of the oil subsidy will involve.

Next to the Boko Haram menace, the oil subsidy question represents the greatest challenge that the Jonathan government faces.

It has the potential of becoming his political nemesis. Of course, an elected government has the duty and responsibility to govern. Sometimes, it is obliged to make hard and unpopular decisions that it considers to be in the interest of the country.

But in doing so it should also show the necessary sensitivity to the fears and genuine concerns of the public. Great tact and prudence is required in handling this issue of the oil subsidy. There is no reason why the oil subsidy cannot be removed gradually, in phases, say over a period of three to four years, starting with the first quarter of next year when 20 per cent of the subsidy may be cut. To attempt to remove it in one fell swoop, as the government is planning, could have severe political, economic, and social consequences for the nation, which dissident and aggrieved social groups will take advantage of. There will be mass protests every where and these will, in addition to the problem of Boko Haram, further task the resources of the government as well as the security forces. Utmost caution is required over this highly sensitive matter.

•Concluded • For comments, send SMS to 08054503031

•Hardball is not the opinion of the columnist featured above

Now, they talk of revolution warned that a re-enactment of the Arab Spring was likely in Nigeria if jobs were not urgently created for the youths. Jonathan, it seems, speaks of his transformational agenda without indicating precisely how that will tackle the youth problem the socio-economic morass of the country evinces. Perhaps the solution is embedded in his agenda in such magnitude and force that words are clearly insufficient to convey. But as for Obasanjo, during his unbroken eight-year rule, not only did he not have a programme for youths, he did his utmost worst to prepare them, both by example and precepts, to be Africa’s laggards.

During his second term in office, Obasanjo sought to tackle the unemployment ogre with beautiful sounding acronyms – NEEDS, SEEDS and LEEDS. Predictably, the effort collapsed in contradictions and confusion, after the initial euphoria and promise of the telecoms revolution. Jonathan probably hopes to anchor his economic plans on the fuel subsidy removal strategy, which he

expects will free funds for his projected Marshall Plan. He believes the plan will create jobs, not lead to job losses; that on the one hand will not be counteracted by on the other hand. He gives the impression that his government has made all its calculations, and that beyond looking at the benefit analysis, he has also looked at the cost analysis. He hopes that the crisis in education, which directly affects youths and endangers both their employability and future, will be solved with one powerful horse dose of subsidy removal. Jonathan is not to be envied.

It is, however, reassuring that both Jonathan and Obasanjo are keenly aware that revolution looms if this last ditch effort by the presidency to stave off economic collapse fails to deliver the goods, particularly to the youths. It is also soothing that if security agents feel regicidal or need to hound anyone for talking the subversive language of revolution, they know whom to train their guns on.

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