The Nation December 23, 2012

2015: Yar’Adua’s men regroup to stop Jonathan –Page 4

I never planned to be a second wife –Mercy Aigbe –Page 43

•Yar’Adua

Nigeria’s widest circulating newspaper

Vol.07, No. 2349

TRUTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM

SUNDAY

DECEMBER 23, 2012

N200.00

Kidnappers release four South Korean workers in Bayelsa –Page 2

BOT Chair: PDP moves to prune contestants

–Page 5

Non-BOT members to be barred from race

NO PERMANENT FOE: ...On the political field they are fierce rivals. But here is Osun State Governor Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola (left) exchanging pleasantries with his predecessors Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola (right) and Colonel Theophilus Bamigboye during the funeral ceremony of the late Mrs Comfort Olufunke Ponnle at her residence, MicCom House, Ada, Osun State… yesterday.

Photo: NIYI ADENIRAN

Ahead Xmas: Suicide bombers strike again Two die in suicide attacks on Kano MTN, Airtel offices Terror alert in Kaduna, Plateau, Bauchi, Kano, Borno –Page 2

BUY AND WIN A BRAND NEW CAR SEE PAGE 71 FOR DETAILS

Petroleum Bill: Northern Senators rebuff FG overtures

–Page 4

Legislators: We fear backdoor hiking of derivation

NEWS

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THE NATION ON SUNDAY DECEMBER 23, 2012

Ahead Xmas: Suicide bombers strike again I

T was all despair in Kano yesterday after terrorists attacked the offices of two major mobile phone operators-Airtel and MTN- in the city 72 hours ahead of Christmas.

Two persons, both of them suspected suicide bombers, were killed in the blasts, a reminder of last year’s Christmas Day terror attack on St Theresa’s Catholic Church, Madallah, Niger State, in which at least 44 worshippers perished.

As a result of the attacks, security agents have been placed on a fresh alert nation-wide.

Particular attention is being given to Borno, Yobe, Kano, Plateau, Kaduna and Bauchi States which have been the major battle fields of the Islamist sect, Boko Haram in the outgoing year.

It was also gathered that all armed forces personnel have been restricted to the barracks.

The civilians living in all barracks and other military formations are now being subjected to security watch.

Yesterday’s attacks were the latest in the wave of attacks on telecommunication facilities in the northern part of the country by terrorists.

According to an eyewitness account, the alleged suicide bomber at about 8 am at Mallam Kato Square, where the Airtel office was located attempted to park his vehicle on the premises in a manner that aroused suspicion..

Security operatives patrolling the area spotted him at once and shot him before he could smash the car into the building.

Moments after the suicide bomber was shot and killed, his car exploded, the impact of which damaged the company’s reception hall, as well as three vehicles parked at the premises.

More security officers were soon drafted to the premises. They cordoned off the area while business outlets in the area quickly shut down for the day.

News of the incident quickly spread, leading to panic among residents.

Security patrol was also increased with the aid of armoured personnel carriers.

Check points were also set up in strategic parts of the metropolis particularly in Sabon Gari and on Burma Road.

In the other attack on MTN office close to the Post Office area, the alleged suicide bomber, riding on a motorbike, rammed his motorbike into the MTN fence, which exploded on impact, killing the suicide bomber.

Capt. Iweha Ikedichi, who speaks for the Joint Task Force (JTF) deployed in Kano to reduce the threat of the Islamic sect, Boko Haram confirmed the incidents.

FROM: Yusuf Alli, Managing Editor, Northern Operation and Kolade Adeyemi, Kano with agency reports

The Airtel bomber rammed through the gate, detonating a bomb which injured an Airtel worker, Ikedichi said. The facility is located in a high-security area, less than 100 meters from the regional office of the Central Bank (CBN).

“The one who hit the Airtel office was shot by military men before the bomb exploded ... at the MTN office the car rammed into the fence but no civilians were killed,” Ibrahim Idris, the chief of police in Kano, told Reuters. Both bombs went off.

A military source said one security guard was injured and has been taken to hospital.

Some Airtel users said that they could not make calls, suggesting that the attack may have affected the company’s switch station.

An Airtel spokesman could not immediately be reached for comment.

About three kilometers away, the MTN bomber was stopped from entering the company’s premises by security officers who shot him at the gate, causing an explosion there, Ikedichi said.

The target was MTN’s switch station in Kano, said the company’s spokeswoman Funmilayo Omogbenigun.

Switch stations control the regional mobile phone network and if they are seriously damaged, the entire network could go down.

Authorities suspect the Boko Haram sect for the attacks, said Ikedichi.

Eyewitnesses said the first suicide bomber dropped his Golf car at the Airtel office in Malam Kato Square, where the bomb explosion killed one security officer of the company and the bomber.

“The car hits the place at about 8a.m. on Saturday morning, although I don’t know if there were people inside the office but I can confirm to you that one security officer who was standing at the gate when the car came was dead,” a source said.

Officials of the state fire service were called into action to extinguish the fire from spreading to the neighbouring business areas.

The second suicide bomber was said to have hit MTN office at Post Road, 30 minutes after the attack on Airtel’s office.

A staff of MTN in Kano, who witnessed the attack and does not want to be identified said : “it was an unsuccessful attack in our office. They wanted to penetrate the office but they could not and they deto-

nated the bomb from the outside.”

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), after mobilising response agencies to the scene of the early morning explosions in Kano, confirmed the “coordinated attacks by suicide bombers at the facilities of two telecom operators in separate locations in Kano Municipality.”

A statement signed by NEMA’s Head of Public Relations, Mr Yushau A. Shuaib, explained that “the attacks, which took place this morning, were targeted at Airtel office around Mallam Kato Square old Parade Ground of Unknown Soldiers and MTN facility opposite Floor Mill, Malali Road, Kano.”

“While securities have further been strengthened in the state, the areas of the attacks have been cordoned off,” the statement added.

The group is held responsible for more than 770 deaths this year alone, according to figures compiled

by The Associated Press.

Boko Haram’s campaign of bombings and shootings has targeted mosques, churches, schools,

universities and government buildings. In September, the group broadened its scope by attacking mobile phone towers for the first time.

In September, a series of attacks damaged more than 31 towers operated by all the major mobile phone providers in the country. Other attacks have occurred since then, further straining the one link the country relies on for communication.

No one has yet claimed responsibility for the attacks although the Islamist sect had threatened mobile phone companies earlier in the year, warning that they would be targeted for cooperating with the government to flush out its members.

Investigation by our correspondent revealed that the presidency has directed the armed forces, security agencies and the police to ensure a peaceful Christmas by putting suicide bombers at bay.

“All military formations, security agencies and the police have been directed to be on the alert to ensure a safe and blissful Christmas for all. The latest attacks on telecommunica-

tions facilities revealed a pattern by these suicide bombers in the past,” a source said yesterday.

“They (terrorists) like striking after demobilising the communication facilities in their targeted areas.

“But the military and security agencies are a step ahead of these bombers. No military, police or security post will be left unmanned no matter how small it is.”

The source added: “All civilians living in the barracks or military formations are under watch or strict surveillance.

“In fact, we are getting to a stage whereby only wives, children and limited number of relations of military personnel will be allowed to live in these barracks and they will be duly accredited.

“Already, movement into and out of barracks or military formations has been restricted or well- defined.

“Except on serious medical grounds, officers and men will not enjoy pass during the Christmas period.

They are to remain on duty as part of the security alert nationwide.”

Even before the attacks , security had been increased in all the major northern cities, although security experts say given the scale of Christian worship in Nigeria they cannot protect everyone.

Kano was the scene of Boko Haram’s deadliest attack which killed at least 186 people in January in coordinated bombings and shootings.

Armed police have been guarding major churches in Kano in the last one week and additional police checkpoints have been set up around the majority-Muslim city.

Police in Kano said during the week that their antiterrorism squads have been searching houses and buildings they suspect to be hideouts of criminals and “terrorists”.

Security experts say they believe Boko Haram is seeking to spark a religious conflict.

A French national was kidnapped in Katsina State last week by people France’s intelligence agency said were “an organised group linked to a terrorist activity”.

L-R: Speaker, House of Assembly, Kaduna State, Hon. Mu’azu Gangara, Gov, Mukhtar Ramalan Yero of Kaduna, Vice President, Namadi Sambo and Chairman, PDP, Kaduna State, Ambassador Nuhu Bajoga, at the PDP caucus meeting, held at Hassan Usman Katsina Houes in Kaduna yesterday.

Kidnappers release four South Korean workers in Bayelsa OUR South Koreans and a Nigerian who were abducted last week in the Niger Delta have been released, police said yesterday.

The four foreign hostages were handed over to South Korean officials in the country late on Friday after police arrested the suspected kidnappers.

“The victims were picked up from Azikoro, Bayelsa State by men of the special security outfit at about 9 p.m.,” the Police Commis-

F

sioner Kings Omire said.

Police spokesman Fidelis Odunna, said: “They were released voluntarily because we had suspects in our custody, and owing to a hit on their camp, they had to let the men go.”

Omire said another Nigerian taken had already been released, meaning all six who were abducted were now free. The two arrested suspects were being interrogated, he said.

There was no immediate comment from either the

South Korean government or Hyundai Heavy Industries, the conglomerate that employs the abducted workers.

Gunmen abducted two Lebanese men working for Nigerian construction company Setraco in Delta State this month, and killed a soldier protecting them.

The 83-year-old mother of Finance Minister Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala was kidnapped on December 9 in Delta State but was freed five days later after a military search.

In the north, where Islamist militants operate, another form of kidnapping of foreigners has emerged this year.

A French national working for a renewable energy company, Vergnet was abducted close to the border with Niger on Wednesday.

French intelligence agency, DCRI, believes the kidnappers were linked to “terrorist activity”. Islamist groups linked to Boko Haram have been behind similar kidnappings.

Column

THE NATION ON SUNDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2012

An avoidable tragedy O

NCE again, Nigeria has been thrown into deep mourning.

All over the land, the grief is so palpable that you could almost touch it. How can one single society which is not officially at war endure so much trauma and tragedies ever unfolding at a fast and furious pace?

Are we not in denial when we say we are not at war? When is a war? As psychologists would attest, the undeclared war is the most deadly, the most lethal because it leaves citizens psychologically unprepared and very vulnerable indeed.

We raise these posers this morning because disaster seems to have become Nigeria’s default setting.

Like sadistic robots our rulers deliver pious homilies at every tragedy and then move on to await the next. And truly in the manner of a society that worships a different god each new day, each new day brings a new tragedy. This is the land of three hundred and sixty five tragedies a year.

The year opened with the avoidable tragedy of the removal of a phantom subsidy. It matured into the avoidable tragedy of the DANA air crash. Now, it is ending with the tragedy of a naval helicopter crash. Why do we waste ourselves so much?

In such circumstances, talking about Annus Horribilis is a misnomer, an instance of misplaced optimism and an anodyne of the socially and economically besieged. An Annus Horribilis occurs when you have a bad year within a fairly good run.

But you cannot be talking about Annus Horribilis when you have been sentenced to perpetual unhappiness. What you have in Nigeria is not Annus Horribilis but Homo Horribilis.

Yet in their unique way, each of these tragedies showcases our inabil-

T

HE revered guest lecturer, Professor Tim Shaw, distinguished and illustrious Nigerians in the audience, exactly nine years ago when I was invited from America to give the inaugural lecture of the Centre for Constitutionalism and Demilitarisation, the atmosphere was quite different. After almost two decades of brutal military misrule, Nigeria was experiencing a fine spell of civil rule and democratic governance. The economy was buoyant. After a long period of absence, the habits of civil and democratic conduct were beginning to take root in the land once again.

At that point in time, there had been some hiccups in the system. The executive and the legislature, particularly, the lower house, were beginning to flex their muscles. Political Sharia had reared its ugly head. There had been some acts of executive highhandedness and even lawlessness, particularly in the brutal official reprisal at Odi. There were also muffled complaints about an absentee president who usually returned from long trips abroad to put some spanner in the works.

But everybody was united in the belief that these minor problems were very surmountable, that some of the infractions were inevitable side-effects and consequences of the authoritarian culture of military rule, that Nigeria will comfortably ride the bumps of adversities. By his personal conduct at that point in time, the president, retired General Olusegun Obasanjo, had shown a zero tolerance for corruption. It was the belief of many that even if Obasanjo did not achieve any other thing, once he was able to rein in the monster of corruption every other good thing would follow.

Today, it is sad to observe that we seem to have moved from a situation of great hope and expectation to one of utter dejection and despondency.

What seems to be going on at the moment is a demonisation and de-

•General Azazi

ity to evolve into a true nation or a truly modern society for that matter.

If the fuel subsidy palaver highlighted the collapse of social capital and the binding bond between the governed and the governing, the Dana crash pinpointed the ravages of the cannibal capitalism that we have imbibed and reconfirmed the nation as the carnage capital of social cannibalism. The helicopter crash is a telling testimony of our continuing inability to come up with the bureaucratic and institutional rationality that underpins modern governance.

It is a pity that General Owoye Azazi had to go down in that chariot

of fire. Despite his controversial exit as the National Security Adviser, the four-star general remained one of the most decorated officers of the Nigerian military, having been DMI, GOC,Chief of Army Staff, Chief of Defence Staff and crowning all this with his appointment as National Security Adviser to President Goodluck Jonathan. It was probably the first time an Intelligence officer had shone so brightly in the firmament of the Nigerian military. General Aliyu Gusau who achieved almost the same professional distinctions was never a four-star general.

The death of Patrick Yakowa is a political tragedy of catastrophic proportions. An accomplished bureaucrat and administrator from a minority group in the politically volatile Kaduna State, there was ample evidence that he had managed to douse the tension and calm things down a bit. Those who should know insist that Yakowa took it hard that he was considered a “stranger” when it came to higher office by those he had mingled and gone to school with, but there is no evidence that he ever allowed this to affect his political judgement.

Given the conspiracy theories flying around and the opening salvo of his youthful successor against those who have treated him with disrespect and discourtesy while he was a :”spare tire”, one must hope that the old demons of ethnic mayhem are not revived in that combustible region. The unfolding political scenario in Kaduna State requires utmost tact and caution.

But if we mourn the tragic death of illustrious Nigerians, we must also mourn the tragic departure of the less illustrious, particularly those gallant naval officers who were cut

S

nooping around With

Tatalo Alamu down in their prime, particularly in the course of official duty to their fatherland. Nobody knows what Navy Captain Daba and Navy Lieutenant Adeyemi Sowole could have gone on to become. In an emotive outburst published in this paper on Friday, Pa Sowole accused the naval establishment of arrant insensitivity. This is a case of acute bereavement that ought to be better managed The crash itself raises so many posers. The federal authorities must come up with the answers to these posers. Since when has it become the official norm for a naval helicopter to be turned into an air-taxi for ferrying VIPs to the funeral of a government functionary? Surely, this is not the norm in civilised nations. It is no use saying that this has always been the practice. What is wrong is wrong.

In any case, a government has to be taken by its self-declared mission and not every post-military administration has promised Nigerians a transformation. If this is transformation, Nigerians will be happy with transmogrification.

The real tragedy of our era is the inability of the Nigerian political elite to realise that they hurt themselves even more when they refuse to abide by the accepted and civilised procedures of doing things. It is not for fun that certain political standards and the administration of justice are maintained with impersonal rigour in developed countries. If you do not secure the realm with justice, injustice will make the realm insecure for

The demonisation of Democracy (Being the chairman’s opening remarks at the annual lecture of the Centre for Constitutionalism and Demilitarisation held on Saturday, December 8th in Lagos) mystification of democracy as the best system of governance ever devised by the human political imagination.

Nigerians, particularly some sections of the political class, are bent on giving democracy a bad name in order to hang it.

But if the political class are bent on committing political suicide, Nigerians have a right to retrieve their country from them before they push it over the cliff together with themselves. All those who suffered greatly in the process of enthroning this civil rule must be prepared to mount a vigil for democracy. The danger signals are there for all to see.

In contrast to the current parlous situation of the nation, nine years ago seemed like an unfolding paradise.

This time around, almost everything that can go wrong in a fragile nation and a more fragile democracy has gone wrong and without powerful countervailing institutions.

As it was the case in the First Republic, we have a military stretched to the limits of its fabric and professional tether by internal security operations. We have a bitterly divided political elite. We have a situation in which a section of the country has been rendered virtually ungovernable by armed insurrection, with the other sections besieged by social, economic, political and religious vampires and vultures.

But now in addition to these ancient woes, we have the alarming situation in which ordinary and normal military postings are judged and condemned through the prism of religious and ethnic coloration. We have warlords and powerlords jostling for contention. We have a ruling class

that has become a byword for a bizarre and berserk variant of kleptocracy. Never in the history of this country has the run on the Exchequer been more openly defiant and in your face, particularly at the centre.

The rot has been steady and systemic and did not begin with Goodluck Jonathan. But he has contributed his own valiant quota even where it can be logically argued that he had inherited an unlucky conjuncture. Since the advent of civil governance in 1999, increasingly costly and astronomically prohibitive elections have produced increasingly cruel travesties leading to democratic regressions rather than the consolidation of the democratic process. Civil rule in Nigeria has produced electoral results which cannot stand scrutiny or the elementary tests of integrity. The paradox is that the more costly and prohibitive the elections, the less satisfactory have been the outcome.

The widely disputed elections of 1999 cost a paltry 8.6 billion naira. Four years later in 2003, the figures had jumped to an outlandish 45 billion naira. The result was an electoral terror which was widely condemned by both the local and international communities. The figures for the 2007 elections have been wisely kept from public scrutiny, which speaks volumes for the transparency and accountability of the officiating government and the integrity of the entire process.

It was the first time Direct Data Capturing machines were used in the annals of elections in Nigeria. But it is instructive that when the then boss of the Independent National Electoral

3

Commission, Maurice Iwu, attempted to demonstrate the efficacy of the new gadget before the national assembly, the result was a monumental fiasco with the machine not being able to capture any data. Nevertheless, Iwu went ahead to order thousands more of the malfunctioning contraption.

In the event, the 2007 elections have been adjudged the worst in the history of the nation and probably in the history of humanity. Ballot-snatching, illegal candidate substitution, whimsical disenfranchisement of large sections of the electorate, computer-assisted generation of fake results, voteswitching, criminal manipulation of results and larcenous fabrication of figures became the order of the day.

The disputes arising from that inglorious charade were still ongoing four years after. It was the most fraudulent electoral chicanery ever foisted on a people. Many years after, Nigerians are still shell-shocked by the brazen audacity of it all.

Such was the scale and magnitude of this electoral heist that discerning and perceptive Nigerians began to whisper about the abolition of the Nigerian electorate. The former president, Olusegun Obasanjo, himself famously described the election as a do or die affair. The brutalisation of the average Nigerian psyche by this egregious effrontery has led to an abiding national trauma and widespread fear of the electoral process.

In a sense, President Jonathan’s election seemed to have restored the hopes of majority of Nigerians in the ballot box. Although there were still widespread allegations of irregularities, particularly ballot-stuffing, voteinflation and under-age voting, the outcome was adjudged by local and international observers as reflecting the wishes of the majority.

But thereafter, Jonathan seems to have stumbled from one major politi-

you too. The mounting spate of insecurity in the land, the rise of highprofile kidnapping, the horrendous casualties suffered by elites in avoidable tragedies all speak to an elite that cannot save itself not to talk of saving the nation.

In such circumstances, the general theoretical question can now be broached. Is there an elite conspiracy against democratic rule in this country? The attitude of many members of the ruling class does not reflect the mental conditioning of those who are committed to the general principles of democracy both as a short term prospect or as a long term project. Yet without such mental conditioning, we can never build durable institutions, and without durable institutions we can never sustain democracy. It is an appalling prospect for nation and society.

The international community must be watching Nigeria with a degree of sympathy-fatigue. The cost of maintaining a deficient democracy is becoming truly prohibitive in terms of human toll and economic wastage. But given the circumstances the alternatives are just too scary to contemplate. If only a fraction of the money being stolen on a daily basis is ploughed into the development of an arterial network of roads, there would have been no need for a helicopter shuttle to become the preferred mode of elite transportation in the mangrove swamps. Primitive accumulation often leads to the accumulation of primitive terror. cal and economic blunder to another.

As each new day brought in a fresh wave of revelations about massive scams and unimaginable heists, the authority and legitimacy of government have suffered incalculable damage. The reputation of democracy as a government of the people by the people and for the people has been dealt a fatal blow. So also has its twin legacy as the vehicle for the greatest good of the greatest number.

In the long run, this brazen kleptocracy will lead to voters’ apathy and an ultimate loss of faith in democratic governance as a means of ameliorating the human condition. In a worst case scenario, the situation may topple into anarchy and the worst form of social miscreancy with unimaginable consequences for both nation and democratic process.

Many have pointed at the lopsided structure of the country, particularly the overconcentration of power at the centre, as a disincentive to genuine democracy. A few have pointed at the residual and lingering efficacy of the despotic and authoritarian African traditional culture. Many more have ascribed it to some innate psychological conditioning which makes Africans predisposed to undemocratic conduct.

It takes a long time for democracy to take roots among traditional nondemocrats, it is cautioned.

Whatever it is, it is now important for all men and women of goodwill to come together to mount a vigil for democracy in Nigeria. The collapse of the current democratic experiment in Nigeria may result in the eventual collapse of the country. If and when that happens, the humanitarian catastrophe for the subcontinent will be of apocalyptic magnitude.

But if Nigeria can be persuaded to reclaim its destiny as the potential hub of progress and development for less humanly and naturally endowed African countries, it may yet be the African century. For the moment, that hope looks foolish and forlorn. Thank you all.

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THE NATION ON SUNDAY DECEMBER 23, 2012

News

2015: Yar’Adua’s men regroup to stop Jonathan

L

OYALISTS of the late President Umaru Yar’Adua are fully back in the trenches as part of the plot by the north to regain the presidency in 2015.

In the group are erstwhile associates and aides of the deceased who, sources say, have been meeting regularly lately following their resolve to champion the cause of the north in the quest to produce the nation’s next president.

The group was said to have been prevailed upon by eminent northern leaders to save the face of the north in the crucial 2015 electoral contest.

“Several emissaries were sent to the likes of Alhaji Abba Ruma, Senator Adamu Aliero and Gen. Sarki Abdullai Muktar (rtd) by concerned northern elders on the need for them to return to the political turf in the interest of the north,” one source familiar with the development told The Nation.

The pressure on the Yar’Adua men, it was gathered, is predicated on the fact that having been involved with him in the race for the presidency in 2007 they are better placed to champion the cause of the north to vie for the presidency in 2015.

Another factor in the group’s favour is their massive financial status which sources say can match that of any other group in the country in prosecuting a presidential campaign against the incumbent should he decide to go for a second term.

The northern leaders had to turn to the Yar’Adua

By Dare Odufowokan group after discovering some apathy from politicians they first sounded out.

The group held its first meeting in Abuja a few days after the Independence day celebration and reportedly resolved to champion the cause of the north within and outside the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Those said to have attended the maiden meeting included former Minister of Agriculture, Sayyadi Abba Ruma, former Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Senator Adamu Aliero, and former National

Security Adviser (NSA), General Sarki Abdullahi Mukhtar.

Others are Dr. Taminu Yakubu, who served in Yar’Adua’s cabinet as the President’s Chief Economic Adviser, Dr. Mansur Muhtar, who held the position of the Minister of Finance as well as two top personal security aides of the late President.

The politicians, sources claim, rose from the meeting with a resolve to approach the 2015 project from two fronts. One is to strengthen their base within the ruling party with a view to wrestling the ticket of the PDP from Jonathan during the

party’s primary election.

The other approach, which appears to be more popular among those who attended the first meeting, is to move the group into another political party and confront Jonathan and the PDP headlong in 2015.

Two committees were said to have been formed to work on the two approaches.

Consequently, some members of the group were said to have met the leadership of the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) to discuss the 2015 general election.

The talks, according to sources, bordered on moving the remnant of the late

Children of the deceased (from right) Kolawole Ponnle; Biodun Ponnle; husband – Prince Tunde Ponnle; Mrs Yetunde Daramola; her husband Daramola; Mrs Temitope Imevbore and Mrs Bukola Adubi during the final funeral of the late Mrs Comfort Olufunke Ponnle at her home residence, MicCom House Ada in Osun State… yesterday (Sunday) Photo NIYI ADENIRAN

President’s structure fully into the CPC while work would start in earnest on how to install a preferred presidential hopeful within the party. Such a candidate, both parties agreed, must be from the north.

It was learnt that the group has met at least on two occasions with leaders of the CPC including former Head of State, General Muhammadu Buhari. One of such meetings, it was learnt ,took place in Kaduna on November 14 with the General in attendance.

Sources said at another meeting of the group held shortly after the first Umaru Musa Yar’Adua memorial lecture in Abuja on Thursday November 29, the two committees reported back to the house and further decisions were taken on how to bring more people into the fold.

The latest meeting of the group, The Nation on Sunday learnt was held in Katsina last Tuesday. At the parley were a former Minister of State for Finance from the Southwest; a former Minister of National Planning; a former Minister of Power also from the Southwest, a former Deputy Governor in the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and a leading industrialist in the country.

The presence at the meeting of a former Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation from the North Central and Alhaji Dahiru Mangal, one of the closest friends of the late President and a wealthy businessman from Katsina State, further strengthened the gathering.

Jonathan appoints new SEC board Nduka Chiejina (Assistant Editor)

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R E S I D E N T Goodluck Jonathan yesterday approved the appointment of new members of the Board of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC),with Dr. Suleyman Abdu Ndanusa from the North Central zone as chairman.

He takes over from Senator Udo Udoma.

Other members of the board, according to the Special Adviser to the Coordinating Minister for the Economy and Minister of Finance, Mr. Paul Nwabuikwu, are: Mallam Mounir Haliru Gwarzo ( North West ) Executive Commissioner; Mrs Sa’adatu Mohammed Bello ( North Central ) Executive Commissioner; Mr. Zakawanu Imhobobho Garuba (South South) Executive Commissioner; Adefunke Abiodun,( South West) Non-Executive Commissioner; and Mr Ugochukwu Ikemba (South East) Non-Executive Commissioner.

Nwabuikwu said the board’s reconstitution was “in line with the provisions of section 5 of the Investment and Securities Act 2007.”

Petroleum Bill: Northern Senators rebuff FG overtures

T

HE Federal Government has launched an elaborate move to woo northern Senators and members of the House of Representatives opposed to the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB).

The northern members of the National Assembly and their governors however remained adamant in their opposition to the bill which they claim is skewed in favour of the oil producing states.

Their fear stems largely from the possibility that the bill may be used to jack up the statutory 13.5 per cent derivation for oil producing states to between 45 and 50 per cent.

They are bent on throwing out the provision for Host Community Fund which stipulates 10 per cent of the profit of oil companies for oil producing states and communities.

The northern lawmakers have the backing of the International Oil Companies (IOCs) who may pull out of new investments in the country on account of the bill.

Investigation by our correspondent showed that about three lobbying groups raised by the Ministry of Petroleum Resources and other oil-related parastatals have been reaching out to Senators and Representatives from the north.

It was gathered that the selling points of the group are that the bill would ensure more transparency in the oil sector; Nigerians can own equity in the new National Oil Company and the National

• Legislators: We fear backdoor hiking of derivation FROM: Yusuf Alli, Managing Editor, Northern Operation

Gas Company; mass employment; the nation would earn more revenue; and the management of the oil sector will have enhanced indigenous outlook than the present dominance by foreigners.

But northern Senators and Representatives have not bought the arguments of the lobbyists.

A high-ranking Senator, who spoke in confidence, said: “The PIB is a booby-trap for the north. We have all resolved to oppose the passage of the bill into law and we are at a comfortable advantage because we have the majority in the two chambers.

“Our main grouse borders on the establishment of Host Community Fund which we want removed from the bill because that will indirectly shoot up the derivation from 13.5 per cent to 45 to 50 per cent for oil producing states. We have commissioned a study and done our calculations.

“Going by what is computed in the PIB, oil states and communities will enjoy about 29.5 per cent derivation.

But we know that there are other inherent advantages which cumulatively could lead to 45 to 50 per cent derivation for oil producing states.

“What has assisted us is that we have the backing of our colleagues from the South-West and some from

the South-East. When Cocoa, groundnuts, palm oil and other commodity products were fetching revenue for the nation, nobody spoke of Host Community Fund.”

Another Senator said: “What is painful is that the present 13.5 per cent derivation being enjoyed by oil producing states was put in place by past northern Heads of State and Governments. So, no one can accuse the North of ganging up against SouthSouth or oil states’ interest.

“What we want is a united Nigeria where all the Federating units will have equal stake. The padding of the PIB to guarantee more revenue for oil states should not have been when a South-South leader is in charge and when another South-South citizen is manning the Ministry of Petroleum Resources.

Another ranking Senator said: “I told the lobbyists that the bill will set bad precedent because it appears it is politically motivated than economic reasons.

“That is the way some of us from the north see it. We have not been convinced at all. That was why the Presiding Officer at the Wednesday session was tactical in managing the situation.”

A principal officer in the House of Representatives said: “We have referred the PIB to a committee but the truth is that those of us from the north would like the recommendation for Host Community Fund expunged be-

cause the derivation policy is there to protect their interest.

“If in future we see the need to increase the derivation percentage, we will do so without any backdoor approach.

“We have listened to some of the lobbyists but we will put the nation first and ensure justice.”

Another high-ranking member of the House said: “The engagement of a consultant has opened the eyes of Northern leaders, Northern Governors’ Forum, Senators and House members to the dangers in the PIB for the North.

“We are ready to sit down with the Executive, make our claims and find alternatives to our grievances.”

Another House member said: “Do you expect us to pass a bill which will leave the determination of royalties payable by oil companies to the discretion of the Minister f Petroleum Resources?

We are sliding into a situation whereby a Minister will be more powerful than the President and CommanderIn-Chief of the Armed Forces.

“We will rather opt for a functional system than pass a bill that will cause chaos in future.”

The northern governors, Senators and House members had rejected the PIB for containing some provisions which will short change the region.

The grouse of the north are contained in a document

prepared for the Northern Governors Forum, Northern Senators Forum and Northern Caucus in the House of Representatives.

The document indicated that the PIB’s provisions could “lock the people of the region out” of ownership of oil and gas resources.

The document reads in part: “On top of the 13.5 per cent statutory derivation from the Federation Account, the mandatory Federal budgetary allocation to the Ministry of Niger Delta, the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) levy of 3% of oil operations and the massive amount of Federal funds being spent on the Niger Delta Amnesty programme, the new PIB is adding 10% of the profit of al Oil and Gas companies to the Niger Delta States and Communities.

“Currently, without this new addition, four states (Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Delta and Rivers) earn more than the 19 northern states combined. One wonders what kind of federation we would end up with if this situation is escalated by the new PIB. In any case, what really is the constitutional standing of this particular provision in the Bill?

“These and many more other issues are in the Petroleum Industry Bill need very close scrutiny by the Northern Governors Forum. Without this exercise, it is very possible for the states in the region to be legally shortchanged through the process of legislation despite having

the majority membership in the two chambers of the National Assembly.”

On plans to divest equity in the proposed new National Oil Company and the National Gas Company, the northern leaders said there is no provision for safety net to protect the interest of the region.”

They said the PIB ought to protect the north’s right to invest in these two companies because of its low participation in the Nigerian Stock Exchange.

The document said: “The plan to divest equity in the new National Oil Company and the National Gas Company is not in itself an issue, the problem is to implement this provision of the law without any safeguards for equity and national spread.

“The communities and businesses in the northern states are not very active players on the Nigerian Stock Exchange. In this regard, simply off loading the equity of these national assets on the stock market could lock the people of the region out of ownership of these critical resources.

“The region must therefore insist on legislating guarantees for equity and national spread on whatever divestment plans there are for oil and gas assets.”

As at press time, it was learnt that the IOCs are uncomfortable with the PIB. A highly-placed source said: “Some of the IOCs have concluded plans to divest from our oil sector if the bill is passed in its present form.”

THE NATION ON SUNDAY DECEMBER 23, 2012

Elechi lifts suspension on commissioners

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HE Ebonyi State Governor, Martin Elechi, has lifted the three months suspension on three commissioners in the state for improper dressing to a state banquet.

The Commissioners are: Chief Hycinth Ikpo, Culture and Tourism; Mr Chukwuma Nwandugo, Works and Transport and Dr Ben Igwenyi, Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice.

According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the commissioners were suspended on November 24 and were barred from attending any state function during the suspension.

In a statement by Dr Onyekachi Eni, the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, the suspension was lifted yesterday. He said “The suspension was lifted in the spirit of Christmas and New Year festivities and the goodwill that traditionally accompanies the periods.

“The lifting is in the expectation that appropriate lessons have been learnt.” the statement stated.

News

Gridlock shuts down Lagos T

HE Lagos metropolis was yesterday held in traffic snarl as residents make last minute shopping arrangements.

Major roads such as the Lagos-Abeokuta expressway, Ikeja, Oshodi, Ikorodu and other s recorded heavy traffic leading to long stretch of traffic.

The heavy traffic led to few fisticuffs as some drivers hit each other’s vehicle.

It was hectic for traffic officials to control as many hurry to get to their destination.

A few motorists spoken to wondered what was responsible for the traffic snarl.

At the domestic terminals of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Ikeja, increased activities were recorded as Christmas and New Year approach.

A News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) report said that while some travellers made enquiries for tickets to travel, others arrived and were received by their loved ones.

Long queues of passengers characterised some airlines’ counters at the two terminals as travellers waited anxiously to be checked in.

The General Aviation Terminal and the Murtala Muhammed Terminal

Ex-VP, Ekwueme, others to lose homes to erosion

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Except something is done promptly to avert the ugly situation, former Vice President of Nigeria, Dr Alex Ekwueme and at at least 50 other families may soon lose their homes to erosion.

The gully erosion that have ravaged communities in Anambra State have dealt a heavy blow on the sleepy community of Okoh in Orumba North Local Government Area, sacking residents and destroying buildings.

When The Nation visited the community yesterday, four buildings have caved in to the erosion while other buildings are hanging on the fringes of the OkoNanka gully erosion.

We observed that one of the erosion sites in Oko is less than 300 metres away from the families of Dr. Ekwueme and his younger brother, the monarch of Oko town, Igwe Laz Ekwueme.

The Ekwueme family was about concluding their fasting and prayer session which had lasted for days in a bid to seek divine protection from the gully erosion.

However over 50 families had already fled from Oko to a neighbouring communities of Amaokpala, Awgbu and Ndikenonwu for safety.

At the gully erosion site yesterday, scores of victims stood motionless.

The victims were discussing their future, while

5

From Nwanosike Onu, Awka

many others where busy evacuating their personal belongings.

Speaking with reporters at his palace in Oko, Igwe Laz Ekwueme said, “As you can see, the homes of people who are already evacuated have already been taken over by the new erosion and it has started encroaching on other houses, including the two Ekwueme houses there”.

He added, “I had severally appealed to his Excellency Governor Peter Obi. Recently, I sent him another S.O.S and in a public function two days ago, he confirmed it and told me that he would try and do something before or during this yuletide season and we are hoping on God and man that something would be done fast. We are really threatened and it is not a happy Christmas for the people of Oko Community,” Ekwueme said The chairman of EziOko village sir Clement Udoye also lamented the development.

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•Activities increase at Airport (MMA) 2 were filled to capacity with travellers jostling for tickets.

Most of the passengers were heading for Abuja, Owerri, Port Harcourt and Calabar.

Some outbound passengers told NAN that they were travelling to meet their families and friends to cel-

•Gridlock at Ikeja Bus-stop along the Agege motor Road yesteray

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HE Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) plans to prune down the number of contestants for the chairmanship of its Board of Trustees (BoT), according to sources.

The move is to avoid what party sources call a rowdy contest.

The BoT position became vacant last April following the resignation of former President Olusegun Obasanjo from the office.

Twenty persons signified their intention to occupy the seat at the close of nomination on December 7, 2012.

Sunday Nation learnt that party stakeholders and the National Executive Committee (NEC) are of the view that the large number of contestants is not in the best interest of the party and have decided to prevail on some of the contestants to forgo their ambition.

The stakeholders want the party to approach the 2015 elections as a united group.

One source said: “The concern was that the party may once again return to its factionalised past if all the aspirants are allowed to go to town and seek support in their bid to win the BOT chairmanship. “ It was feared by a good number of party elders that the aftermath of a rowdy BOT election with as many as 20 eminent and respected party leaders seeking just one position will negatively affect the

Old students meet

HE much awaited inaugural meeting of the United Anglican Methodist Grammar School, Ilesa Old Students’ Association will hold this Saturday at the school premises by 2pm prompt.

According to the organisers, the occasion is aimed at bringing together all

ebrate Christmas out of Lagos.

An Abuja-bound passenger, Mr Lucky Osaghede, said that he was travelling to celebrate Christmas with his wife and their new born baby.

Another passenger, Mrs Christiana Okoh, said: “My husband was transferred

well-meaning ex-students of the college as well as appointment of members of new executive working committee; identify areas of needs in the school; deliberate and initiate developmental programmes to support the objective of bringing back the school to its old glory.

from here to Port Harcourt and the children are on holiday; so, we are travelling to spend the period with him in Port Harcourt.’’

Mr Akeem Oseni, who was travelling to Abuja, however, frowned at the increase in local airfares.

“I paid N4,000 extra for this trip to Abuja; before now, one could book online for tickets cheaper than the

Photo: Joe Agbro Jr.

amount I paid today. This is unfair.

“Airlines should not use this period to exploit travellers. They know that a lot of people fly these days because of our bad roads,’’ Oseni told NAN. An attendant with one of the airlines at the MM2, who spoke on conditions of anonymity, told NAN that airlines increased fares to make up for their challenges.

Tickets for air travel from Lagos to Abuja is between N25,000 and N29,000 on counter, while Lagos to Port Harcourt is between N27,000 and N30,000.

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has advised Nigerians, especially air travellers, to make early preparations for their travels for Christmas and New Year celebrations.

The FAAN General Manager (Corporate Communications), Mr Yakubu Dati, gave the advice in a statement in Lagos.

He said the early preparations were to avoid the rush that usually characterised Christmas and New Year periods at major airports nationwide.

BOT chair: PDP moves to prune number of contestants •Non-BOT members to be barred from contesting

By Dare Odufowokan

fortune of the party.”

A crucial meeting where the stakeholders took the position was at the instance of current BOT members of the party .The meeting held in Abuja decided to exclude nonmembers of the Board from the chairmanship race as part of efforts to reduce the large number of aspirants in the contest.

The source added:”Stakeholders also observed that some people who are not members of the BOT have written to signify their intention to vie for the position of Board chairman. The decision is that such people will be screened out of the race because the party’s constitution forbids them from participating in the election.

“The party’s constitution stipulates that its chairman and secretary are to be elected from among its members.

“Consequently, nonmembers should not even be in the race. For those who

applied, the resolve is that they should be screened out.

Don’t also forget that those who were not members of the Board might not be allowed to be part of the meeting where the voting exercise will be carried out. So how then will they stand for election at such a gathering.”

According to the party’s constitution, the 98 members of the Board will decide who becomes the next BoT chairman.

The assignment of convincing some identified BOT members to shelve their ambition, sources said, has been given to a committee put together at the Abuja meeting.

“Aside from the decision to stop non-BOT members from the race, a committee was also set up to talk to some other identified aspirants to shelve their ambition. There was also a suggestion that the party should avoid an election and use the consensus option in choosing its BOT chair-

man.

“The suggestion was strongly considered by the leaders as a way of avoiding a crack within the party ahead of the 2015 general election.”

Though the party is yet to make public the list of candidates, Sunday Nation learnt that among those who have shown interest are former Minister of Works, Chief Tony Anenih; a former National Chairman of the party, Senator Ahmadu Ali; and Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu. Also in the race also are former President of the Senate, Ken Nnamani, a former National Deputy Chairman of the party (South), Chief Shuaib Oyedokun, Second Republic Vice President, Dr. Alex Ekwueme, and former BoT chairman of All Nigeria Party, Chief Harry Akande.

The board is scheduled to meet on January 8, to decide who becomes its next chairman.

Sokoto NUJ: Dundaye re-elected chairman

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ABARAN Lumo Dundaye of NTA Zonal Centre, Sokoto Chapel has been re-elected as the chairman of the Sokoto State chapter of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ).

Dundaye scored 83 votes to defeat his opponent, Isah Abubakar Shuni of the state Ministry of Information who got 69 votes.

Also, Abdallah El-Kurebe of the Correspondents’ chapel was elected as Secre-

From Adamu Suleiman, Sokoto

tary after defeating Abdulnasir Abubakar of the Rima Radio by 105 to 58 votes.

Jabbi Illela Dabbore of NTA narrowly beat Gazali Muhammad of The Path newspaper by two votes to pick the position of Treasurer with 77 against 75 votes.

Dundaye’s election broke the one term “jinx” that has long been in exist-

ence in the Council.

The election had earlier suffered cancellation last September following a boycott by three chapels with subsequent support by two thirds majority from a fourth chapel out of six in the state on grounds of constitutional violation.

In his victory speech, Dundaye assured members of his readiness to carry them along for the unity and stability of the union.

THE NATION ON SUNDAY DECEMBER 23, 2012

News

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Journalists honour lawmaker

By Oziegbe Okoeki

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HAIRMAN, Committee on Information, Strategy, Security and

Publicity of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon. Segun Olulade was recently honoured with an award by the Crime Reporters Association of Nigerian (CRAN) for his efforts at ensuring that peace reigns in his Epe constituency.

According to the CRAN team, the award is in recognition of the laudable efforts of Olulade in the attainment of a peaceful, humane and crime-free society especially in his Epe Constituency II of Lagos State where he facilitated the deployment of some men of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) to curb the menace of armed robbery attacks in the area.

The team of crime reporters, which comprised Mr. Victor Akindele of the Nigerian Pilot Newspaper, Mr. Femi Akinkungbe of the Leadership Newspaper and Mr Taiwo Jimoh of Nigerian Compass, maintained that Olulade has been very outstanding in his contribution to security and crime reduction in Lagos State and Nigeria as a whole.

Receiving the award, Olulade said that the award has afforded him an opportunity to re-dedicate himself to the security of lives and properties of the people, while also promising to further bring security issues to the front burner on the floor of the Lagos State House of Assembly.

UKAid boosts Lagos healthcare with N750m T

HE Lagos State healthcare delivery system has received a major lift with the distribution of health commodities and equipments worth about N750miilion to various healthcare centres across the state under the Drug Revolving Fund scheme by the DFID, channelled through Partnership for Transforming Health Systems II (PATHS2), Lagos.

At the official roll-out of the scheme recently, beneficiaries including public and private healthcare centres took delivery of drugs and consumables at the Lagos State

By Ibrahim Apekhade Yusuf, Central Medical Stores, Oshodi.

Justifying the need for the scheme, Mrs. Bisi Tugbobo, State Team Leader, PATHS2, Lagos, said it was a pro-poor programme which has the potential of delivering quality healthcare services to the populace.

“With the funds from UK Aid channelled through DFID to PATHS2, Lagos, we were able to provide drugs and equipments to 143 facilities in the first phase and additional

62 facilities in the next phase which will take off soon,” she said.

Echoing similar sentiments, Mrs. Oluwafunmito Adeyanju, the System Strengthening Logistics Officer, PATHS2, said with the successful roll-out of the scheme, “hopefully, the healthcare delivery in the state will be much improved.”

Expatiating, Adeyanju noted that six private hospitals namely, Barbinton, Deltacrown, Firstcross, Ram Shalom, Rally and Yomi Convalescent Home, all of which

have signed a memorandum of understanding with PATHS2, will participate in the scheme.

Speaking earlier, Dr. (Mrs) Moyosore Adejumo, Director, Pharmaceutical Services, Lagos State Ministry of Health, and Pharm. Ruth Olanrewaju, Director, Lagos State Central Medical Stores, Oshodi, expressed optimism that the initiative by PATHS2 would further complement the healthcare delivery in Lagos, even as they assured that the drugs would be put into good use.

Uli varsity Alumni lauds VC From Odogwu Emeka Odogwu, Nnewi

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NAMBRA State University Alumni Association yesterday commended the Vice Chancellor of the institution, Prof Fidelis Okafor and his management team for giving the university a new face in the league of universities in Nigeria.

Rising from its mini convention, the association appealed to all Alumni members to rally round the ViceChancellor to intensify his massive developmental programmes in the institution in addition to human capacity building for the benefit of students.

Ogun State Governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun (Middle) and his wife, Mrs Olufunso Amosun, welcoming former President Olusegun Obasanjo to the state Christmas Carols & Service of 9 Lessons at the June 12 Cultural Centre, Kuto, Abeokuta... yesterday

Anambra hands over health centres to communities Power generation hits 4,502.2 mw

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OWER generation has hit 4502.2 megawatts, more than the 4500 megawatts projected by the Federal Government.

The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) confirmed yesterday that the new level of power generation was achieved at the weekend.

It said: “In fulfilment of Mr. President’s promise of improved electric power delivery to Nigerians, a new power generation peak of 4,502.2 Megawatts (MW) was achieved on Friday, 21st December, 2012, and was efficiently wheeled by TCN.” The company’s Assistant General Manager (Public Affairs), Mr Dave Ifabiyi, described the development as an improvement on the 4,454.1MW attained on Wednesday, 19th December, 2012.

He pledged that as gas supply continues to improve and more National Integrated Power Projects (NIPP) come on stream, the transmission and distribution companies will continue to harness every available generation to ensure that stable electricity supply is delivered to electricity customers.

From John Ofikhenua, Abuja

The TCN Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Engr.

Olusola Akinniranye, also said the company is not relenting in its efforts to strengthen the transmission grid, noting that efforts are ongoing to restore the BeninEgbin 330kV line as well as complete the new transmission – distribution interface projects which will further enhance the company’s power evacuation capacity.

TCN appealed to all citizens to continue to partner with it in protecting electricity installations nationwide,saying the need to forestall any act of vandalism is vital to the transmission and sustenance of power generated, as vandalism constitutes major setback in the improvement of power supply situation in the country.

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OVERNOR Peter Obi of Anambra State has announced the immediate handover of all the local health facilities in the state to the communities where they are located to manage.

Obi made the announcement at Umueri and repeated same at Atani General Hospital while launching a one-day polio campaign.

The handover is a fulfillment of an earlier promise he handed down on Tuesday during the inauguration of a task force on immunisation.

The governor said the

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purpose of the handover is to ensure that the health centres are run smoothly, as each community owe it a duty to monitor workers posted to each health facility and can decide whether such workers merited their pay.

At Umueri and Atani local government areas, Obi also inaugurated a task force on immunisation headed by the chairman of the local government traditional rulers’ council.

Chairman of the transition

committee of the local government, the Head of Department of Health, local government immunization officer among others, are members of the task force.

Obi urged the task force to aggressively pursue the issue of immunisation with a view to ensuring that it does not come back to the state.

Earlier, the newly appointed Commissioner for Health, Dr. Lawrence Ikeakor, urged women to take up the challenge of making the state retain its polio status by getting their children immunised.

Ministry partners media on science reporting

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O be in the league of industrialisednationsandattain the expected national development, the Ministry of Science and Technology is seeking collaboration with the media on

Buy original books, UTME candidates urged ANDIDATES sitting for the 2013 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) have been advised to purchase original copies of reading books for the Use of English exam.

In a statement by the Univer-

From Odogwu Emeka Odogwu, Nnewi

sity Press Plc, publishers of The Potter’s Wheel written by Chukwuemeka Ike, one of the two recommended exts for the UTME, the General Manager, Publishing, Mrs. Folakemi Bademosi said; ‘It is advisable to obtain authentic copies from the publishers’.

By Ambrose Nnaji

science and technology reporting.

This was the submission of experts at a workshop organised by the National Office for Technology Acquisition and Promotion (NOTAP), in Lagos over the weekend.

The partnership, if effectively harnessed, is expected to sensitise stakeholders on the processes for technology identification, assessment, acquisition, adaptation, transfer and documentation.

Tagged: ‘Science and Technology Reporting’, the workshop was chaired by the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Sci-

ence and Technology, Hajiya Jimeta, who was represented by the Director-General, Federal Institute of Industrial Research (FIIRO), Oshodi, Gloria Elemo said Nigeria may be far from attaining rapid development until the necessary technological infrastructures needed for growth were put in place.

In his remarks, the Director General/Chief Executive Officer of NOTAP, Umar Bindir identified weak industrialisation strategy, weak standards and enforcement, no industry venture capital, technology support/risk funds, weak IT/commercialisation strategy among others as major challenges confronting science and technology in the country.

ALGON hails Ajimobi From Bisi Oladele, Ibadan

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HE Oyo State branch of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) yesterday lauded Governor Abiola Ajimobi for changing the face of the state.

ALGON, in a statement by its Chairman and Secretary, Mr. Yekeen Popoola and Ayodeji Abass-Aleshinloye respectively, said that Ajimobi achieved this feat in less than two years through the various developmental projects his administration initiated.

The association, which also felicitated with the governor on his 63rd birthday, explained that the beautification project, infrastructural development and urban renewal programmes embarked upon by the governor has successfully improved the aesthetics of Ibadan, the state capital and other parts of the state.

The statement read in part, “It is clear to all that this administration came in with a clear vision and a determination to pursue it for the overall benefit of the people of the state. The massive developmental efforts at the grassroots also complement those at the state level to drive the transformational agenda which is aimed at improving the standard of living of the good people of Oyo State as well as attract investors to the state.

“In accomplishing these lofty goals, Senator Ajimobi is creating opportunities for our people to create wealth and earn a decent living in an atmosphere of peace.

Agency mourns Yakowa

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NITED Kingdom’s Partnership for Transforming Health Systems Phase 2 Programme (PATHS2) has expressed sadness over the death of Governor Patrick Ibrahim Yakowa of Kaduna State in a military helicopter crash in Bayelsa State last Saturday.

PATHS2 National Programme Manager, Mr Mike Egboh led a delegation of UK’s Department for International Development (DFID) funded state level programmes; SAVI, SPARC, ESSPIN, GEMS and C4C on a condolence visit to the family of late Governor Patrick Yakowa at the Government House in Kaduna recently.

He described the death of Governor Yakowa and other distinguished Nigerians in the crash as a great loss to the entire nation and extremely painful to PATHS2 and other DFID projects as late Governor Yakowa was a good ally and played an exemplary role in strengthening the state’s health systems.

Egboh said the nation has lost a great patriot who rendered quality stewardship to his people even in the face of daunting security challenges noting that he worked assiduously to put in place a team of professionals to reposition the Kaduna State Ministry of Health and the entire health sector in order to provide better healthcare services to the people of the state.

THE NATION ON SUNDAY DECEMBER 23, 2012

News

Anyim bags ??????? pan-Igbo cultural ambassador award

Lagos ???????

Assembly will show good leadership, says Ikuforiji

From Odogwu Emeka Odogwu, Nnewi

By Oziegbe Okoeki

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OUNCILS of South-East Traditional Rulers and the Pan-Igbo Tourism and Cultural Foundation, Nigeria, yesterday announced that it would bestow on Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator Anyim Pius Anyim, with its highest title as the Pan-Igbo Cultural Ambassador during a cultural fiesta scheduled for January 26, 2013. President Goodluck Ebere Jonathan, GCFR is expected to declare the event open as the Special Guest of Honour.

Chairman of the foundation, Chief Hon Justice Ezebuilo Ozobu, announced this yesterday during a courtesy call on the Executive Vice Chairman of National Communications Commission (NCC), Dr Eugene Juwah in Abuja.

Ozobu, who is also the Chairman of Enugu State Council of Traditional Rulers, said that businessman, Chief Sony Iwedike Odogwu, will get the Tourism Ambassador of the Association.

Other prominent Nigerians that would also be honoured at the event scheduled for Enugu State include the Deputy Speaker, Federal House of Representatives, Right Hon Emeka Ihedioha, Executive Vice Chairman, Nigeria Communications Commission , Dr Eugene Juwah, Director-General NAFDAC , Dr Paul Orhii and the Vice Chancellor, Federal University , Oye Ekiti, Prof Chinedu Nebo. Others are the Inspector-General of Police, Mohammed Dikko Abubakar and Anambra State Governor, Mr. Peter Obi , Ozobu spoke through the Executive Secretary of the foundation, Dr Dave Ugonna.

Party de??????? registration: Retired police boss faults INEC From Kolade Adeyemi, Kano

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CHIEFTAIN of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Azubukor Joel Udah, has faulted reasons given by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for the deregistration of 28 political parties.

Udah, a lawyer and retired Deputy Inspector-General of Police (DIG), noted that party performance should not be the basis for determining its strength or viability, adding that there was nothing wrong in having community-based political parties.

Although Udah accepted the allegation that most of the registerd parties were conduit pipes for INEC funds, he insisted that deregistration should be based largely on gross violation of INEC laws “and not for failing to win seats at elections as was adduced by Prof Attahiru Jega in the case of the 28 deregistered parties.”

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•1 L-R Professor Folake Solanke, Governor Rauf Aregbesola of Osun State and Governor Abiola Ajimobi of Oyo State, during PHOTO: OYO STATE GOVERNMENT HOUSE the burial reception for Hon Justice Kayode Eso at Ilesa Osun State on Friday.

Sambo calls for inclusive government in Kaduna V

ICE President Mohammed Namadi Sambo said in Kaduna yesterday that only an inclusive government, involving all party stakeholders in the state can move a post-Yakowa Kaduna State forward.

The Vice President spoke just as the state governor, Mukthar Ramalan Yero, appealed to stakeholders in the state to assist him in arriving at a good choice of a deputy governor for the state.

Speaking at a PDP stakeholder’s meeting, Sambo told the governor that in order to succeed and move the state forward, he must carry the stakeholders along.

From Tony Akowe, Kaduna

While commiserating with the government and people of the state over the death of Yakowa, Sambo said that the PDP in Kaduna State has come a long way, pointing out that everything must be done to ensure the continued cohesion of the party.

“I call on the governor to rally round stakeholders to move the state forward and achieve greatness. I urge you all not to rest on your oars to work towards the progress of the state. President Goodluck Jonathan has assured that he will continue to support Kaduna State.”

Addressing the gathering,

Gov Yero said the the choice of a new deputy governor will be announced soon and solicited the support of the stakeholders in appointing his deputy.

He assured that he will complete all projects initiated by his former boss as well as implement the budget if approved by the state house of assembly.

Chairman of the PDP in the state, Ambassador Nuhu Bajoga, recalled that the PDP in the state has recorded huge success as exemplified in the recent primaries and local government elections in the state.

The meeting was attended

by Nigeria’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Dr. Dalhatu Sarki Tafida, Senator Isaiah Balat, former chairmen of the PDP in the state, Alhaji Makama Rigachikun and Alhaji Ya’u Usman, Senator Nenadi Usman, Alhaji Suleiman Hunkuyi, National Organising Secretary of the PDP, Alhaji Abubakar Mustapha, Hon. Yakubu Barde, Hon. Gideon Gwani, among several others.

Also at the meeting were two of those whose names are being paraded as likely nominees for the position of the deputy governors. They are Hon. Jonathan Asake and Rev. Joseph Hayab.

MicCom’s funeral unites Aregbesola, Oyinlola

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ARELY two years and 25 days after reclaiming his mandate, Osun State Governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, and his immediate predecessor, Olagunsoye Oyinlola, met for the first time.

They met yesterday at MicCom House at Ada, Boripe Local Government Area in Osun State, during the final funeral service of a bridgebuilder and philanthropist, Mrs Comfort Olufunke Ponnle, an engineer and cofounder of MicCom Cables ad Wires.

It was a gathering that saw many of the dignitaries and guests anxiously wanting to know how the duo would face each other.

Aregbesola and Oyinlola displayed high level of maturity to the admiration of all.

They exchanged pleasantries, hugged and pat themselves on the back. They spoke for a few minutes before returning to their seats. The gathering gave them a rousing ovation.

Co-incidentally, the governor arrived at the point the husband of the deceased, Prince Tunde Ponnle, mounted the podium to pay tribute to his departed jewel.

He could not but pause for a while to watch the scenario.

The MicCom boss expressed delight watching the

By Tajudeen Adebanjo

two statemen embracing each other not minding the turbulent years of political struggle for the leadership of the state.

Prince Ponnle described their peaceful meeting as a good omen, hoping it will be the end of political bickering in the state.

He told the governor his and the deceased’s plan to build an eight-storey building to beautify the state.

“When the physician told my wife that she had barely a week to live; one of the things we discussed is about the building and she told me to build it before joining her. We have secured a land, we are only waiting for the Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) to commence,” he said.

Afterwards, he exchanged pleasantries with the governor and was joined by Oyinlola and

the state former Military Administrator, Colonel Theophilus Bamigboye, for a photograph.

Aregbesola, while greeting the guests, described Oyinlola as his brother. He prayed for the former governor to continue to prosper.

The governor seized the opportunity of the gathering to debunk insinuations that his government did not like the Ponnles.

He said his relationship with the Ponnles began in 1989 during one of his political struggles in Lagos. He said the deceased assisted him even to become the governor of the state unknowingly.

“But because my programme is not in tandem with the MicCom establishments, people thought I hate them.

No, I don’t play golf like my predecessor does. We love you

and very soon, we will do something to show that we truly have you in mind. Let it be on record that I and MicCom are not fighting but golf is not a gift to me from God,” he said.

On the proposed building, Aregbesola jokingly asked where the building would be situated. “Is it Ada, Osogbo or Okuku,” this drew laughter from the gathering, including Oyinlola.

“Osogbo Sir,” Prince Ponnle replied.

“Don’t wait for the C of O, I have approved it today,” Aregbesola assured him. The guests, including the clerics, yelled in joy.

He later prayed for the deceased family and the gathering.

The remains of Madam Ponnle were lowered in the grave within the compound at exactly 2:33pm.

NDLEA arrests 125 suspects in Kano

B

ETWEEN October and November this year, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Kano has arrested 125 suspected drug users, abusers and traffickers. The agency has also intercepted 836.862 kilogrammes of Cannabis Sativa and other psychotropic substances.

88 of the arrested suspects

From Kolade Adeyemi, Kano

were tried and convicted for being in possession of illicit drugs, while 83 addicts were counselled and freed.

According to the Kano NDLEA Commander, Alhaji Garba Ahmadu, a large chunk of the intercepted illicit drugs were Cannabis Sativa, which has

been in rampant use in Kano in recent times.

Garba attributed the high rate of drug use in Kano to social factors, including the ever growing population, youth unemployment and Kano’s status as a commercial nerve centre, where people of different shapes in character visit on daily basis.

PEAKER of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon. Adeyemi Ikuforiji, has said that members of the House will continue to show good leadership and abide by the Quaranic injunctions required of leaders which include fear of God, honesty, transparency and patience in the discharge of their duties.

Ikuforiji stated this in his remarks at the 6th Annual Hijrah celebration of Lagos Assembly, which took place at the Assembly complex at Alausa, Ikeja on Friday. The theme for this year’s celebration was, ‘Establishment of a just and balanced society: A critical look at leadership and accountability’.

He also promised that the House will continue to legislate for the betterment of the people’s welfare and for good governance as this is what Allah expects of anyone in a position of authority and as representatives of the people.

An Islamic cleric and lecturer from the Faculty of Law, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Prof. Muhammad Ladan, who was the guest lecturer at the event, urged political office holders to use their positions to show good leadership and accountability in office.

Also speaking on the topic, a lecturer at the Department of Insurance, University of Lagos, Dr. Tajudeen Yusuf, said that God forbids injustice and that mankind should engage in worldly affairs with justice in all ramifications.

Dignitaries honour Lam Adesina at final burial ceremony From Tayo Johnson, Ibadan

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INAL burial ceremony for the former Governor of Oyo State, Alhaji Lamidi Onaolapo Adesina, was yesterday held at the Liberty Stadium, Ibadan, where over 5000 families and well wishers came to dine and celebrate the late Action Congress of Nigeria chieftain (ACN), who passed away early last month.

The event started at exactly 12:30pm as the guests were entertained by fuji maestro, Saheed Osupa.

The programme was anchored by the Oyo State ACN secretariat, as people wore the green and brown Aso-Ebi, bearing inscription of the picture of the late political icon.

Dignitaries were led to the event by the Governor of Oyo State, Senator Abiola Ajimobi, followed by his deputy, Otunba Moses Alake Adeyemo, Senator Olufemi Lanlehin, Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Hon. Monsurat Sunmonu, Chief Bayo Sanda, former Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Chief Iyiola Oladokun, ex- Secretary to the Oyo State Government, Chief Michael Koleosho, Iyalode of Ibadanland, Chief Aminat Abiodun, Chief Akinade Fijabi and Hon. Abiodun Awoleye, among others.

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News

THE NATION ON SUNDAY DECEMBER 23, 2012

Kano police smash robbery gang, recover N2.65m

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T was one robbery adventure that went awry for a three-man armed robbery gang in Kano following their arrest by the police on Friday after they had operated at a filling station and carted away the sum of N2.65 million.

The accomplice who gave information to the gang is an elder brother to one of the robbers.

The stolen money, which was recovered by the police, was the day’s proceeds from the company’s filling station located at Tundun Wada, about 120 kilometres to the state capital.

The suspects are helping the police in their investigation, while the company’s station manager has been declared wanted for complicity in the botched robbery at-

From Kolade Adeyemi, Kano

tempt.

Idris said two automatic pistols were recovered from the suspects whose arrest in the Falgore forest was facilitated by the assistance of local hunters in Kwanar Dangora.

Police gave the names of the arrested suspects as Monday Joseph (20) and Simon Chile Adamu (22), both from Benue State.

A police officer while giving insight into how the alleged robbers were arrested said, “After carrying out their operation, the suspects sped off in a Golf car with their loot, but luck ran out on them when policemen on their trail mobilised local hunters to go after them. Sensing that the

game was up for them, they abandoned their Golf car and dashed into the bush.

“The police, members of the community, vigilante groups and hunters, spread into the bush, which led to the arrest of the suspects around the area. After on the spot search, the stolen N2.65m was recovered intact. Also recovered were two pistols and the stolen phones.”

“Investigation further revealed that it was one Muktar Adamu from Ankpa, Kogi State, who is an employee of the filling station and elder brother of one of the arrested suspects, was the person who organised and invited the robbers at the time sales of the day had been counted and was about being taken to bank.”

Excitement as Streets of Calabar premieres

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HE on-going Calabar Festival registered several more levels of excitement with the premiere of the international Nollywood comedy thriller Streets of Calabar on Friday night at the Marina Resort Cinema in the State capital.

The event sponsored by UNICEM, which drew the cream of the entertainment industry as well as top government officials, also witnessed the launch of a Cinema at the resort to be managed by Film House Cinemas.

Chairman of the state House of Assembly Committee on Tourism, Mr. Steve Okupe, who declared the cinema open, said in line with the tourism thrust of the state, the event was another distinction added to the cap of the state.

The movie, shot in London

From Nicholas Kalu, Calabar

and Calabar, features Rita Dominic (2012 winner AMAA Best Actress Award); Wale Ojo (winner Nigeria Entertainment Best Actor Award 2012 & star of “Phone Swap”); Anthony Ofoegbu (UK actor on British TV productions “The Bill”, “Casualty” and “Spooks”); Maynard Eziashi (winner of Silver Bear 41st Berlin International Film Festival Best Actor Award for his role alongside Pierce Brosnan in “Mister Johnson”; Keppy Ekpenyong (veteran actor and star of over thirty Nollywood movies); Gordon Case (A royal Shakespearean and National Theatre actor in the UK); Lisa Kill(a new British Nollywood Starlet); Vicqui Christie (a British trained actress); writer, producer & di-

rector Charles Aniagolu (former BBC and CNN news anchor); co-director Frank Macaulay and various other cast and crew members of Streets of Calabar.

Managing Director of Film House Cinemas, Mr. Ken Mkparu, described the opening of the cinema as a dream come true.

He said in spite of some challenges, the enabling environment the Cross River State government and the tourism bureau provided made the project possible.

He said the company is planning to inaugurate 25 cinemas in Nigeria in the next six years.

He described the Marina Resort Cinema as unique because it is one of the few cinemas in the world that overlook the river.

‘Tinubu meant well for Ondo people’

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GROUP in the riverine area of Ondo State, Ilaje Democratic Forum (IDF), has urged people of the state to stop misinterpreting the campaign speeches of the National Leader of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), Asiwaju Bola Tinubu during the last October 20th, 2012 gov-

From Leke Akeredolu, Akure

ernorship election in the state.

The group noted that Tinubu meant well for the people of the state and is also interested in ensuring that Yorubaland witness a rapid development both politically and economically.

Government to close illegal day care homes in Anambra

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NAMBRA State government will close all unregistered day care centres in the state by January next year.

Wife of Anambra State Governor, Mrs. Margret PeterObi, disclosed this yesterday during a one-day workshop for all daycare centres in the state organised by the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development.

The workshop also featured presentation of gifts worth millions of naira and a cash support of N40, 000 each to mothers of triplets and multiple children living in the state irrespective of their state of origin.

Mrs Obi charged proprietors of day care centers in the State to register their non- curriculum institutions with the Ministry of Women Affairs or risk closure.

She said issues concerning children in the society should be handled with outmost care and diligence, noting that the

From Odogwu Emeka Odogwu, Nnewi

era of abuse of the children in day care centres is over in the state, hence the need to document the staff and environment of every day care centres hitherto left in the hands of some non-professionals.

Earlier in her speech, the state Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Lady Henrietta Agbata, observed that daycare centre is an important service to the society as it provides quality care that influences children’s development and learning abilities positively and called for an improved child care services which is critical to a child’s development.

Lady Agbata added that research has shown that young people who undergo quality child care during their early formative stage are less likely to get involved in crime.

The IDF Chairman, Hon. Nimbe Tawose, who spoke with The Nation in Akure, the state capital, on behalf of the group, said the people of the state had misconception about Tinubu’s campaign statements during the last day of the ACN rally in Akure.

It noted that the ruling Labour Party (LP) allegedly embarked on a campaign of calumny by alleging that the ACN National Leader vowed to convert the mega schools and Mother and Child Hospital built by Governor Olusegun Mimiko to mortuaries if ACN won the poll.

Tawose explained, “Tinubu was only comparing the population of some schools in Lagos State to schools in Ondo State and never said he would use the project for another thing. On the Mother and Child Hospital, Tinubu never said the hospital would be changed to a mortuary and also none of the ACN leaders said that.”

It described Tinubu as another Yoruba leader who has the same political ideology with the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo, saying the former Lagos State governor is a human developer.

It added that Tinubu through his passion for Yoruba land had been able to groom several political gladiators who are contributing massively to the development of the South West region.

NEWS REVIEW

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THE NATION ON SUNDAY DECEMBER 23, 2012

•Aliyu

R

EST in Peace. That is probably the best prayers being mouthed by many of those opposed to the passage of the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB).

Reason:The bill is skewed in favour of some interest groups only.

The latest opposition, of course, is coming from the Northern Governors' Forum, an umbrella body of the 19 northern states, namely: Adamawa, Bauchi, Benue, Borno, Gombe, Jigawa, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Kebbi, Kogi, Kwara, Nasarawa, Niger, Plateau, Sokoto, Taraba, Yobe and Zamfara.

At issue really, according to the governors, is the fact that the region stands to suffer more deprivations including socio-economic losses capable of further marginalizing them, if the PIB is allowed to sail through.

The kernel of their argument is that the 19 northern states put together earn less than what accrues to just four oil producing states - Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Delta and Rivers - in a month from the Federal Revenue Allocation.

So worried are the governors that they have expressed readiness to fight to the last man in order to achieve their objective of sounding the death knell on the bill.

Much as the governors feel strongly about their position, many analysts are not persuaded by the methodology adopted by the governors.

Such analysts believe that the governors should seek recourse in the court of law instead of issuing threats that tend to heat up the polity.

Framework for revenue sharing Section 162 of the 1999 constitution stipulates that all federally collected revenues should be paid into the Federation Account monthly and shared by the three-tiers of governments namely: Federal, States and Local Governments. Usually, the revenue components are made up of oil and non-oil revenues.

The oil revenues include proceeds from direct sales of crude oil at international market, royalties, petroleum profit tax (PPT), CBN, NNPC, and gas revenue, rentals, gas flared and miscellaneous oil revenues.

The non-oil revenues include company income tax (CIT), import

•Allison Madueke

PIB: Northern governors, Niger Delta square up Even after it was reworked to temper the bad blood generated by its original draft,the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB) remains far from a satisfactory piece .What with Northern stakeholders vowing to stop it from seeing the light of the day.Their complaint is that its coming will spell economic doom for the North,which in their opinion,is already at the receiving end of the prevailing revenue sharing formula adopted in the country. Ibrahim Apekhade Yusuf examines the contending issues duty, excise duty, fees and customs penalty/charges.

The country also earns revenue from Value Added Tax (VAT), which is the consumption tax on goods and services and is shared among the three-tiers of government in the following order: Federal Government: 15 %; state governments: 50 % ;local governments: 35 %.

Statutory Revenue Allocation Formula Since the Supreme Court ruling of 2002 and the subsequent Modification Order which came into effect in May 2003, the Revenue Sharing Formula remains thus: Federal Government: 52.

68%; State Government: 26.72% and Local Government: 20.60%.

Breakdown of the Federal Government portion is as follows: Federal Government: 48.5%; FGN Share of Derivation and Ecology 1.00%; Federal Capital Territory 1.00%; Stability Account 0.50%; Development of Natural Resources 1.68%.

The disbursements to the beneficiaries are made through a mandate issued by the Accountant General of the Federation to the

Central Bank of Nigeria to credit the accounts of all the beneficiaries.

Modus operandi The responsibility for sharing the revenue is discharged by the Federation Account Allocation Committee, otherwise known as FAAC, at the monthly meeting of the body.

The meeting is chaired by the Minister of Finance with the Commissioners of Finance from each State of the Federation including the FCT as members, basically to consider the revenues that accrue into the Federation Account during the preceeding month and share same to the three-tiers of government using the statutory approved formula.

The plenary session is preceded by the Technical Sub-Committee meeting of the FAAC made up of all the Accountants-General of the States including the FCT as members chaired by the AGF. The meeting of the technical subcommittee is usually held a day before the plenary session and considers the account on details and make recommendations to FAAC.

The devil is in the detail A document entitled: "A Compendium of Federation Account Revenue Allocation to Federal, States and Local Governments", obtained from the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation by The Nation, details all allocations and analysis of trends of revenue allocation to the three-tiers of government in the last 10 years.

It shows that federal allocations increased by an average of 6.5 % between 2000 to 2002, just as there was a fall of over 13% over 2002 figures in 2003 due mainly to re-adjustment in the Revenue Sharing Formula.

Over the 10 year period from 1999 to 2008, the Federal allocation grew by an average of 20% per annum.

It is instructive to note that allocation in 2008 was the highest ever in the history of the country mainly as a result of releases from the Excess Crude Account. Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Delta and Rivers States had the highest allocations by virtue of their share in the 13 % derivation funds dedicated to the oil-producing states.

November 2012 was another

month of jumbo allocations when the Federal State, and local governments shared a total of $1 billion and N996 billion from four different oil revenue accounts.

The allocations were Foreign Excess Crude Account $1 Billion, Statutory and VAT revenues N834 billion Budget Differential N152 billion, and NNPC Refund N7.6 billion.

In the dollar allocation Akwa-Ibom State tops the list of recipients with $47 million, followed by Rivers $45 million, Delta $39 million and Bayelsa $$32 million. Others are Kano which received $20 million, Lagos $15 million, Cross River $10.8 million, Ebonyi $8 million, Gombe $8 million.

On the disbursement of Statutory and VAT allocation of a total sum of N834 billion, Rivers tops the list with a net sum of N17 billion, followed by Akwa Ibom N16.9 billion, Delta N13 billion, Lagos N13 billion, Kano N10 billion and Bayelsa N9.5 billion. Other recipients included, Cross River N5 billion, Ekiti N3.8 billion, Gombe N3.7 billion and Ebonyi N3.5 billion.

Proponents of Existing Revenue Sharing Formula Notwithstanding the groundswell of opposition against the existing Revenue Sharing Formula, those in favour of the status quo are not leaving any stone unturned to ensure that nothing upsets the apple cart.

A group under the aegis of Oil and Gas Communities of Nigeria, had last month sent a petition to the chairman, Revenue Mobilization Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), Abuja, John Osula.

In the 14 paragraph petition tagged: "13% derivation under the proviso to Section 162 (2) of the 1999 constitution as amended; the oil producing communities and not the states are those entitled to receive and manage 13% derivation" the group argued that the existing revenue sharing formula was constitutionally approved and could not be upturned arbitrarily by anybody.

The petition signed by elders and leaders of Niger Delta extraction, including Chiefs W. O. Okirika, Emmanuel Ebimami, Ejiro Bodjor among others, noted that 13% Derivation is not part of Consolidated Revenue Fund of any tier of government nor does it also part of Fund to be included in the Joint State and Local Government Account.

"We recall that it was the great pressure mounted by the oil and gas producing communities during the 1994/95 Constitutional Conference that made 13% Derivation Fund as one of the main decisions and resolutions of the 1994/95 Constitutional Conference," the group stressed.

Expatiating, they said, "13% Derivation Fund then became a benchmark for Revenue Allocation based on derivation principle to oil and gas producing communities in Nigeria.

During the drafting of the 1999 constitution, the oil and gas producing communities were around again exerting great pressure to ensure that 13% Derivation Fund enshrined in the 1999 constitution.

"Our contention is that since the intention of the framers of the Constitution, is to entrench derivation as compensation for lands and rights already and/or likely to be extinguished or drastically reduced, the beneficiary should exclusively be the producer, i.e. the oil communities.

"That 13% derivation revenue accruing to the federation account directly from any natural resources be paid as first line charge from the federation account to the oil and gas producing communities through a national derivation board whose members shall be recommended for appointment by the president on the advice of leaders of oil and gas communities."

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THE NATION ON SUNDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2012

News Review/World

Egypt's vice president quits

Pope pardons ex-butler who stole,

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P

GYPT's state TV says Vice President Mahmoud Mekki has resigned. Mekki's resignation yesterday was announced with more than five hours to go of voting in the second and final phase of a referendum on a disputed, Islamist-backed constitution.

Mekki, a career judge, has said he intends to quit once the charter is adopted. The new constitution eliminates the post of vice president.

However, a statement by Mekki read on state TV hinted that the motive of his hurried departure could be linked to the policies of Islamist President Mohammed Morsi.

He said he first submitted his resignation last month but events forced him to stay on.

"I have realized a while ago that the nature of politics don't suit my professional genesis as a judge," he wrote.

OPE Benedict XVI granted his former butler a Christmas pardon yesterday, forgiving him in person during a jailhouse meeting for stealing and leaking his private papers in one of the gravest Vatican security breaches in recent times.

After the 15-minute meeting, Paolo Gabriele was freed and returned to his Vatican City apartment where he lives with his wife and three children. The Vatican

leaked documents said he couldn't continue living or working in the Vatican, but said it would find him housing and a job elsewhere soon.

"This is a paternal gesture toward someone with whom the pope for many years shared daily life," according to a statement from the Vatican secretariat of state.

The pardon closes a painful and

embarrassing chapter for the Vatican, capping a sensational, Hollywood-like scandal that exposed power struggles, intrigue and allegations of corruption and homosexual liaisons in the highest levels of the Catholic Church.

Gabriele, 46, was arrested May 23 after Vatican police found what they called an "enormous" stash of

Ex-Tunisian dictator's property goes under hammer UNISIAN authorities are putting property confiscated from ousted Tunisian dictator Zine El Abidine Ben Ali up for auction.

That includes a pair of miniature gold sphinxes, a diamondencrusted pen and a staggering 39 luxury cars.

Officials hope the sale, which was inaugurated by Tunisia's Prime Minister Hamadi Jebali in Tunis yesterday, will fetch some 20 million dinar ($12.9 million) for the state.

One of the rarities up for grabs is a super-pricy Mercedes that belonged to Ben Ali's nephew.

Mohammed Lassaad Hamayed of Tunisia's confiscation committee calls the car "a handmade gem made of carbon fibers that costs more than •2 million ($2.6 million)."

He says "only Mohamed VI (the King of Morocco) has a similar one."

Ben Ali was ousted by a popular uprising in January 2011.

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Oman holds first municipal elections

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MAN says more than 1,400 candidates are competing in the Gulf nation's first municipal elections, a concession following Arab Spring-linked unrest.

Oman has seen sporadic protests demanding more job opportunities and a greater public voice in the tightly run sultanate.

The official Omani News Agency says the candidates, including 46 women, were vying yesterday for 192 seats on local councils that have no direct powers but will serve in an advisory role.

Gulf Arab leaders have managed to ride out the region's upheavals, but have promised some limited reforms and offered financial incentives such as expanding state jobs.

Strategic Oman shares control of the Strait of Hormuz with Iran. The narrow waterway at the mouth of the Persian Gulf is the route for one-fifth of the world's crude oil.

•Female Muslim relatives of 22 men from the northern Lebanese city of Tripoli who were killed on November 30 in the Syrian border town of Tal Kalakh, hold up rifles as they line the street during the funeral of three of the men, yesterday, in Tripoli. A security source said he was informed the men "went to Syria to fight with the rebels and were all killed in an ambush in Homs province," which borders Lebanon.

AFP PHOTO/STR

Bombing at political rally kills 9 in Pakistan

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suicide bomber in Pakistan killed nine people including a provincial government official at a political rally held yesterday by a party that has opposed the Taliban, officials said.

The rally in Peshawar, the capital of northwestern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, was held by the Awami National Party, whose members have been repeatedly targeted by the Taliban.

Among the dead was Bashir Bilour, the second most senior member of the provincial Cabinet, said Ghulam Ahmed Bilour, the politician's brother and federal railways minister.

Over 20 others were wounded by the blast, said local police officer Sabir Khan.

Bilour was leaving the rally after delivering the keynote speech when the attack occurred, said Nazir Khan, a local Awami National Party leader.

"There was smoke and dust all around, and dead and wounded people were lying on the ground," he said.

The suicide bomber was on foot, said another police officer, Imtiaz Khan.

Mohammed Afridi, a spokesman for the Pakistani Taliban, claimed responsibility for the attack in a telephone call with The Associated Press. He said the militant group has formed a special wing to attack members of the Awami National Party and the Muttahida Quami Movement, another political party that has opposed the Taliban.

Mian Iftikhar Hussain, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa information minister and a member of the Awami National Party, said both he and Bilour had repeatedly received threats from militants. He condemned the attack and said the government needed to intensify its battle against the Taliban.

"Terrorism has engulfed our

whole society," said Hussain. "They are targeting our bases, our mosques, our bazars, public meetings and our security checkpoints."

Ten Taliban militants attacked the military area of an international airport in Peshawar with rockets and car bombs a week ago, killing four people and wounding over 40 others.

Five of the militants were killed during the attack, and five others died the next day in a gunbattle with security forces.

Also yesterday, police said a mob in southern Pakistan stormed a police station to seize a mentally unstable Muslim man accused of burning a copy of Islam's holy book.

The crowd beat him to death, and then set fire to his body.

The case is likely to raise further concerns about the country's harsh blasphemy laws, which can result in a death sentence or life in prison

to anyone found guilty. An accusation or investigation alone can lead to deaths, as people take the law into their own hands and kill those accused of violating it.

Police stations and even courts have been attacked by mobs.

Police arrested the man on Friday after being informed by residents that he had burned a Quran inside a mosque where he had been staying for a night, said local police official Biharud Deen.

An angry mob of more than 200 people then broke into the police station in the southern town of Dadu and took the accused man, who they say was under questioning. Deen said police tried their best to save the man's life but were unable to stop the furious crowd.

Police have arrested 30 people for suspected involvement in the attack, said Deen.

FBI question Benghazi consulate attack suspect

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FTER months of asking, agents from the FBI questioned the only known suspect in the Sept. 11 attack on the U.S. consulate in Benghazi that killed four diplomats, the suspect's Tunisian lawyer told The Associated Press yesterday.

Ali Harzi, a Tunisian, was detained in Turkey and extradited to Tunisia in October where authorities have said he is "strongly suspected" of being involved in the attack.

His lawyer, Anwar Oued-Ali, added that Harzi was also questioned about an attack on the U.S. embassy in Tunisia, a few days later, suggesting the American authorities are looking into if there

is a connection between the two attacks.

The Sept. 11 assault by armed men in the Libyan city of Benghazi killed U.S. Ambassador Chris Stephens and three other American diplomats. Members of an Islamist militia, Ansar al-Sharia are suspected in the strike, but there has been little progress in the Libyabased investigation into the attack.

Harzi's defense team was not allowed to attend the questioning on the grounds that he was being interviewed as a "witness" rather than a defendant.

Harzi is being charged by the Tunisians for "membership in a terrorist organization." Harzi denies the charges.

papal documents in his Vatican City apartment. He was convicted of aggravated theft by a Vatican tribunal on Oct. 6 and has been serving his 18-month sentence in the Vatican police barracks.

He told Vatican investigators he gave the documents to Italian journalist Gianluigi Nuzzi because he thought the 85-year-old pope wasn't being informed of the "evil and corruption" in the Vatican and thought that exposing it publicly would put the church back on the right track.

During the trial, Gabriele testified that he loved the pope "as a son loves his father" and said he never meant to hurt the pontiff or the church. A photograph taken during the meeting yesterday - the first between Benedict and his once trusted butler since his arrest showed Gabriele dressed in his typical dark gray suit, smiling.

The publication of the leaked documents, first on Italian television then in Nuzzi's book "His Holiness: Pope Benedict XVI's Secret Papers" convulsed the Vatican all year, a devastating betrayal of the pope from within his papal family that exposed the unseemly side of the Catholic Church's governance.

The papal pardon had been widely expected before Christmas, and the jailhouse meeting Benedict used to personally deliver it recalled the image of Pope John Paul II visiting Mehmet Ali Agca, the Turkish gunman who shot him in 1981, while he served his sentence in an Italian prison.

The Vatican spokesman, the Rev. Federico Lombardi, said the meeting was "intense" and "personal" and said that during it Benedict "communicated to him in person that he had accepted his request for pardon, commuting his sentence."

Lombardi said the Vatican hoped the Benedict's pardon and Gabriele's freedom would allow the Holy See to return to work "in an atmosphere of serenity."

South African president visits Mandela in hospital

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OUTH Africa's president has visited former leader Nelson Mandela in a hospital, and the presidency says Mandela continues to respond to treatment.

The office of President Jacob Zuma says he saw Mandela yesterday morning in Pretoria, the capital, and assured the antiapartheid icon that he has the support of all South Africans and the world.

Mandela, who is 94, has been hospitalized since Dec. 8. He was diagnosed with a lung infection and also had gallstone surgery.

Zuma is urging South Africans to continue praying for Mandela, who was imprisoned for 27 years for his role as a leader of the struggle against white racist rule. He served one five-year term as president.

14 dead in Mozambique highway collision

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OLICE in Mozambique say 14 people died when a tyre burst on a speeding minibus, causing the driver to lose control and collide with an oncoming vehicle.

Radio Mozambique cited police as saying 11 people were also injured in the accident on Friday. It happened 50 kilometers (30 miles) north of the capital, Maputo.

Police say all of those killed were on the minibus that had been going too fast, and that the driver was among the injured. Some passengers in the other vehicle, also a minibus, had minor injuries.

Traffic on some highways in Mozambique is heavy at this time of year as people working in South African mines return home for the Christmas season. Many South African tourists also visit Mozambique over the holiday period.

News Review/World

THE NATION ON SUNDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2012

T

HAT you are reading this means we survived the Mayan cataclysm.

Some people are already searching for esoteric reasons why the earth still turns and why we flawed humans remain its dominant occupants. Some believers in the purported doomsday immediately began to justify their lark by saying we skirted our appointment with disaster because of divine intervention at the eleventh hour. They claim a miracle saved us. But no miracle was had; none was needed. Millions fervently believed the world would pass on December 21. They based this on the termination of an ancient calendar of a defunct civilisation. Neither the calendar nor the civilisation that produced it did these people understand. Yet, they believed the doggerel of self-proclaimed experts who professed the knowledge to decipher the deeper significance of the end of the Mayan long calendar. These officious bubblers and mountebanks told a gullible world the end of the calendar portended the end of days.

People sold their homes. Many quit their jobs, slapping their bosses on the way out the door. Some sold their wives; others bought them as if there was no tomorrow. Affluent believers spent millions constructing subterranean bunkers or building modern-day arks in hopes of becoming modern day Noahs. Curiously, those who succumbed to this devilment were more educated than the average person. Yet, they were seduced by one of the world's greatest scams. The thing was hogwash. Yet, a billion dollar industry of best-selling books, feature films, and television documentaries sprouted from this nonsense. The day after all was supposed to go boom, the experts who predicted the dire end where counting their earnings and phoning their stock brokers. Had they believed, they would not have bothered with pecuniary matters, for money would mean nothing in a world that no longer existed.

Many who believed the Mayan cantrip have suffered the costs of their gullibility. Yet, the truth was always a rather simple matter. The calendar ended because it was behaving like all good calendars. It ended so another could begin. We do this every year. That the Mayan calendar was exceptionally long delayed but did not dispense with this inevitability. However, the length of calendar and the auspicious alignment of the stars on this solstice made febrile the minds of many. As usual, the trouble was not in the stars. It was in those who read them.

It was much like the situation where an overly thoughtful teacher commended a pupil for ending his essay in an unusual way exhibiting symbolism and hidden meaning. At this, the pupil turns to his mate, confessing he ended the exercise as he did because he had no more paper. Other than that, the student had no earthly idea about what the teacher was babbling.

Why this long excursion into the Mayan fantasy? It represents stark, timely proof of a theme central to this trilogy on the misdesign of Africa's development: he who controls your thoughts controls your fate. Like the victims of the Mayan deception, Africa has naively accepted as gospel the inaccurate notions of second-rate economic thinkers who have turned to mish-mash the nuanced postulations of the discipline's more fecund minds. Sadly, Africa has accepted as her working economic model something that functions contrary to her better interests.

This series was conceived as a vehicle to disseminate the outline of a better way. To do this, we need to clearly understand the role of national government as the issuer of currency. Understanding this is central to injecting our economies with the kinetic energy required to pull them from the clutch of chronic destitution. All economic players, except the national government, share one frightening commonality.

They can all go bankrupt by spending more than we earn over time. We all must protect ourselves from insolvency.

Not so a national government. To the extent the government deals in the currency it issues, the danger insolvency is no greater than that of electricity travelling at the speed of light being overtaken by the fabled tortoise.

For all other actors, a negative currency flow poses mortal terror. Too

The misdesign of African development, Part 3 (Finale) •A poor man's ignorance he carries alone, but a leader's ignorance is borne by all.

•Protesting South Africa construction site workers

BRIAN BROWNE

much money out and not enough in, you lose the game and all that comes with it. To live a good life, we must obtain more money than we relinquish.

For us, money is wealth. This sounds fine until you view this from the aggregate and not just from individual standpoint. Imagine no government and an economy consisting only of private actors. Every one cannot achieve the net positive cash flow at the same time. Assuming no great disparities among the population, half the people will share the path of insolvency while the other half enjoys the fruit of surplus. My gain is your loss. Economics descends into conflict accurately described as warfare by possession of money and not force of arms. This would be a rather testy existence that augurs stringent competition over a static economic res and little creation of new wealth to relieve the pressured existence.

Enter wise governance. A smart national government knows its major constraint is inflation not insolvency. Since insolvency is inapplicable, government need not view money with the reverence the rest of us give money. Government will look at money primarily as an assignation of economic value but not as wealth itself. Since government has the unlimited power to issue money, it needs not view money as wealth since wealth implies something that is of limited quantity and of which the actor has a limited ability to acquire. Government must see its role as issuing currency in a manner that assigns to each economic actor a value commensurate with that actor's relative value in creating actual wealth within the political economy. For example, an unemployed person creates no additional wealth. Having no present economic value, that person gains no money through economic exchange. Our jobless person must bear the burden of his penury though he is not the cause of it. If things are left the way they are, he will be forced to pay a lifetime poor man's tax better known as joblessness for existing

in a circumstance created by factors far beyond his control and comprehension.

Multiply his case by the millions. This is Africa. We have too many idle people who will sprout but a fraction of their potential because the political economy works against them instead of working so that these people may have a livelihood.

Should we continue with conservative economics, this tale will not end. The light will be faint indeed and at the end of it, all there will be is a dark tunnel.

We can escape this plight through intelligent courage. We must alter the role of government. Our governments should see their prime role as turning this vast reservoir of idle human and material capacities into productive agents generating additional wealth. This is done by assigning value to the idle assets by putting them to work and paying them an amount reflective of their fair value relative to other actors in the political economy. This does not mean that government print money to distribute it mindlessly. Such an exercise courts dangerous inflation. Yet, to not print and spend because of fear of government insolvency is to relegate the significant portion of the people to the almshouse. If we must suffer the danger of one side of this trade-off, it is more humane to risk the chance of inflation than to live with the certainty of economy depression.

Governments must have the vision and will to remodel the nation in ways that put to work all who want to work.

This requires wise deficit spending. Only when government runs a deficit does the private sector enjoy a surplus that allows most players a positive monetary flow.

This positive flow has a more congenial, familiar name: prosperity.

Governments must seek this broadbased, generalised prosperity by following a strategy that includes: 1. National Industrial Policy: Only industrialised nations offer their urban populations sufficient employment. No industrial nation has reached its mark by

slavishly strapping itself to the vagaries of the free market. Every successful industrialised nation has taken control of their political economy by reshaping its processes to serve the national interests instead of following the illogic of the market. This is not textbook economics.

But it is empirically sound, for it reflects how the world has worked. The shapers of the modern British and American economies enacted measures that so favoured and protected desired industries that these measures collectively represented industrial policies that willfully eschewed dumb adherence to the free market and free trade.

2. National Infrastructural Policy: This is a vital complement to the industrial policy. The economy can only become as big as the infrastructural foundation allows. Thus hard infrastructure such as roads, bridges, rail networks, ports, power generation, and potable water systems must be constructed. This will employ many while also increasing the efficiency of the entire private sector by driving down cost and time expenditures.

3. Agricultural Reform: We need to modernise and diversify agriculture.

Mechanisation and soil enrichment/retention is needed to increase yields. Irrigation and water catchment systems are required to mitigate climate change and the severe swings of rainy/dry seasons.

Government should introduce price controls on certain food essentials to ensure farmers a floor below which the price of their produce will not descend. Again, this is not textbook economics but we are also not in a university examination hall.

This is real life and too often real death.

America enjoys the world's most efficient agricultural sector. It also has only of the most highly subsidised by government.

It is madness to believe struggling African farmers with scant government support can battle the subsidised American and European agricultural behemoths.

Instead of giving life support to their domestic agricultural sectors, many nations are busily conceding their most fertile lands to foreign firms. Progressively, others are gaining control of Africa's food production and supply.

4. Education: Our education systems must be retooled to fit our economic reality, instead of mimicking the academic preferences of the former colonial metropolis. Courses in secondary and tertiary institutions must be reshaped to equip students with the skills the economy will need five-ten years hence. This is not accomplished by copying what is done abroad. It can only be done by strategic planning that connects where we are with where we want to

be.

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The first two articles in this series focused mainly on externally-created obstacles. Now it is time to confront an internal demon. Development will escape us as long as corruption remains our frequent administrator. I labour to say something that has not yet been said about this affliction. Yet, the importance of the issue dictates that I raise it.

Beyond the obvious moral deficiency of taking what does not belong to you, corruption fouls the economy in multiple ways. First, it distorts the natural and fair allocation of money and thus resources. The beneficiaries of corruption accumulate cash to spend on consumption they do not deserve which are usually high cost foreign items. The victims are the humble, forced to do without basic commodities and services locally produced. The extraction of this money from commerce in local products further deflates the economy, causing greater unemployment and business failure due to corruption's suppression of natural demand levels. In effect, the money is stolen a second time. The trail does not end there.

The purloined funds must go somewhere. Somewhere is usually abroad.

That the money becomes completely divorced from the national economy essentially means the funds are stolen a third time. The funds then fuel investment in foreign banks and industries, compounding the developmental advantage recipient nations enjoy over Africa. Thus, the funds are stolen a fourth time. This hit may be the bitterest. Corruption means poor African nations are annually giving significant foreign aid to the rich economic powers. These powers then sell expensive manufactured goods to Africa and Africa scrambles to purchase these goods with the money it no longer has. The money has been stolen a fifth time.

Yet, this tale begins with money but does not end there. Corruption shatters real lives of real people. A hospital goes without medicine, a doctor, the electricity needed to conduct surgery, and even a bottle of clean water. In this void, a baby dies and a mother cries because she is without the infant she bore for nine months. She has become a tree without fruit, leaf or branch. What good does such a tree see in herself? Or maybe a mother dies and her baby cries because the woman who bore him has passed before he could see her, be held in her arms or hear her call his name for the first time. What fortune has such young fruit without a tree on which to ripen?

Corruption is more than the surcharge of bad governance: it is a mean siege against the poor and all mean sieges invite the Reaper. He descends on us in the putrid hospital, along the decrepit roadway, in the collapsed building or in the house set aflame by the tipped candle falling against the frayed tail of an old curtain. He descends to steal from the poor the only treasures they possess - their loved ones. The poor man feels the raw anguish of the unexpected disappearance. His scream is so profound that it has become the scream within a scream. His tear so sublime that they have tears. Then comes the silence of deafening loss. It is empty and impregnable.

While the victims of corruption wander this penumbral existence, corruption's beneficiaries fete themselves with cocktail nights and caviar dreams.

The only thing they lack is lack. Money, not love, seems to cover a multitude of sins. Indeed, money answers all things but only for those who have it. For the rest of us, it is a relentless inquisitor posing questions beyond our ability to answer. For all the fluff about economic progress, we remain a continent of debased luxury and sublime poverty.

That others may inflict this damage on us is expected given the scarred lines of our history. That we do this to ourselves is abominable and a source of derision behind closed doors outside the continent.

Thus, we have a choice to make.

Knowing that the current leads us toward dangerous cataracts, do we have the courage to turn against the tide and swim for ourselves? If we reform, we might rescue ourselves. If we go along with the flow, we will eventually go under. To me, the choice is easy because there is but one living alternative. Merry Christmas.

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THE NATION ON SUNDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2012

12

There can be law without justice but there can be no justice without law.

13

COMMENT and ANALYSIS THE NATION ON SUNDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2012

Biafrans who still dream of leaving Nigeria Lekan

Otufodunrin

Otufodunrin@thenationonlineng.net 08023000621 (SMS only)

Did you do your best?

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• People in Enugu gather discreetly to sing the Biafran anthem and raise the flag.JPG

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N a quiet, dusty and fairly secluded corner of Enugu city, south-eastern Nigeria, a group of men unfurled a homemade flag and then sang. “Biafra will live forever. Nothing will stop us,” was the gist of their anthem in the Igbo language.

They were not exactly belting it out and instead of hoisting the flag up a pole, it was tied to a metal gate. But there is good reason for discretion - in the eyes of the authorities the gathering is illegal.

On 5 November, 100 men and women were arrested as they marched peacefully through the city’s streets after raising the Biafran flag.

They were all imprisoned and accused of treason but then released when the charges were dropped. It appears the government is determined to ensure any agitation for secession is not allowed to gather momentum.

Forty-two years after the end of the devastating civil war in which government troops fought and defeated Biafran secessionists, the dream of independence has not completely died.

“No amount of threats or arrests will stop us from pursuing our freedom - self-determination for Biafrans,” said Edeson Samuel, national chairman of the Biafran Zionist Movement (BZM).

“We were forced into this unholy marriage but we don’t have the same culture as the northerners. Our religion and culture are quite different from the northerners,” he told the BBC. The group broke away from the betterknown Movement for the Actualisation of the Sovereign State of Biafra (MASSOB).

The 1967-70 Civil War threatened to tear apart the young Nigerian nation. Ethnic tensions were high in the mid 1960s. The military had seized power and economic hardship was biting.

With the perception that they were pushing to dominate all sectors of society - from business to the civil service - and while they were prominent in the military, the Igbo people were attacked.

Thousands were killed, especially during the clashes between northerners, who are mostly Muslim, and Igbos. To save their lives, Igbos fled en masse back “home” to the east.

“People used to meet fuel tanker drivers who allowed them to hide inside the tankers some survived that way,” remembers Igwe Anthony Ojukwu, the traditional ruler of Ogui Nike in Enugu State.

“As we were licking our wounds… it dawned on us that we could not just stay at home as they would come and fight us and that would mean... extinction,” he said, adding that this prompted the move to declare Biafra independent.

Today on the streets of Enugu you can hear songs about the war. Booming out from a stall selling CDs and DVDs I heard a song praising

By Will Ross

the late Chief Emeka Ojukwu - the man who raised the Biafran flag in 1967 and was the leader of the breakaway nation that existed for 31 troubled months.

“It was very terrifying. In the market place you hear a bang and you find limbs flying, people lying dead and others running helterskelter,” said war veteran Chief Nduka Eya, recalling the aerial bombardment by the Nigerian forces.

At his home he showed me the small card he was given after the Biafrans surrendered. It reads: “Clearance certificate for members of armed forces of defunct Biafra.”

“Naturally when you lose a war it can be very depressing but what can you do? We took it. But history shows Biafra is defunct out of surrender,” said Chief Nduka Eya who is now the secretary general of Ohaneze Ndigbo, an umbrella group representing Igbos around the world.

In the bottom right-hand corner of the card is Olusegun Obasanjo’s signature. The man who later became the president of Nigeria played a major role in the civil war, fighting on the federal government side.

Although no-one knows the true number, more than one million people died in the war - some from the fighting but many more from the resulting famine in the east.

In an effort to repair the bruised nation, the Nigerian head of state General Yakubu Gowan spoke of “No Victor, No Vanquished” and also promoted a policy of Reconciliation, Reconstruction and Rehabilitation.

But to this day, many Igbos complain that they were punished economically after the war and still speak of being marginalised. The fact that no Nigerian president has come from the east is a source of much rancour.

The prospect of an independent Igboland now seems impossible, especially as secessionists would want the area’s lucrative oil fields.

While those publicly clamouring for independence are a very small minority, it is not hard to find young people who feel they would be better off as a separate nation. This ought to be of great concern to the government of Nigeria.

“If this present government does not have the solution for us upcoming youth here, I’d rather the nation breaks,” said one young man playing football in Enugu near a statue of a Biafran soldier holding a gun aloft.

“We are willing to fight for our rights.

Without sacrifice there will be nothing like freedom. We have to pay the price if we want independence and we are ready to do that again,” he added.

“Islams (sic) don’t want the east to rule the country and our opportunities and rights are denied so we are better off as an independent

Biafra sovereign nation. Nothing is impossible,” another man in his 20s added.

The renowned Nigerian author Chinua Achebe recently released his memoirs of the war entitled “There Was a Country.” The book includes an insight into what life was like for his family fleeing the city of Lagos and heading east.

His account has angered some - especially non-Igbos - and has caused a stir in the Nigerian media as well as on the internet where there are plenty of reminders that ethnic divisions still run deep.

Towards the end of his book Achebe asks: “Why has the war not been discussed, or taught to the young, over 40 years after its end?

“Are we perpetually doomed to repeat the mistakes of the past because we are too stubborn to learn from them?”

Today Nigeria faces massive security challenges - top of the list being the Islamist insurgency in the north that many Nigerians believe is being fuelled by politicians.

Many would argue that some of the root causes of the civil war were also triggers of the rebellion in the north as well as the militancy in the Niger Delta.

“Three words - injustice, inequality and unfair play,” says Chief Nduka Eya who, like Achebe, believes it is essential for young Nigerians to learn about the war.

“If you think education is expensive try ignorance,” he says. “Ignorance is a very damaging disease. Our boys and girls need to know what actually happened. ‘Why did my father go to war?’ Someone in the north will ask: ‘Why did we go to fight them?’”

Sitting on his throne and holding his ox tail staff of office, Igwe Anthony Ojukwu calls for the war to be studied in schools. “The experience of Biafra should be shared so that people outside Biafra will know when they are cheated and when they should start to fight for their own destiny,” says the traditional ruler.

“The risk of not studying Biafra is that we will continue to subdue the subdueables no matter how justified they are in their demands.

We will continue to live a life where the stronger animal kills the other,” he says, although he stresses that he is against further efforts to secede.

“I think it is important that Nigeria stays together. Those who are singing for disintegration are doing so for selfish ends.”

Forty-two years after the war, a beer has just been launched in eastern Nigeria. The choice of name, “Hero”, and the logo on the bottle of a rising sun similar to the one on the Biafran flag were no accident.

These days “Bring me a Hero” is a popular call in the bars of Enugu where people have not entirely given up on the dream of raising a glass to “independence.”

Source: BBC

OW well did you do in 2012? If you score yourself 100 percent or excellent, the above question is not for you. If you didn’t do too well or you didn’t accomplish the goals you set for yourself at the beginning of the year like me, you need to answer the question.

We all probably have various excuses why things didn’t work out for us and I quite agree that there are lots of factors beyond our control in a country like ours, but we need to sincerely answer these questions: Did you do your best? Did you take advantage of the opportunities you had? Were there not things that you should have done that you left undone?

This column was informed by the December 21 and 22, 2012 devotional reading from Our Daily Manna published by Dr Chris Kwakpovwe in which he recalled the encounter former President Jimmy Carter had with Admiral Hyman Rickover, former head of the U.S Nuclear Navy during an interview for a submarine programme.

“How did you stand in your class at the Naval Academy?” Rickover asked Carter. Believing he had done very well, Carter replied, “Sir, I stood fifty-ninth in a class of 820,” expecting to be congratulated, but he was not.

Instead, Rickover asked the unexpected question: Did you do your best?.

A shocked Carter was honest enough to admit that he didn’t always do his best.

“Why not?” the Naval Admiral probed further, leaving Carter dumbfounded as he slowly left the interview room.

Fifty-ninth in a class of 820 is a good position but Carter could have done better if he did his best always.

There is indeed a Carter in most of us. We forget that we always have to be at our best to be the best in whatever we do. A preacher once said that the difference between ordinary and extra-ordinary is the extra. Going the extra length with all the required diligence, knowledge, and passion is the attitude we need to succeed. There are, however, times we do all that is required and we don’t succeed, but we have to convince ourselves that we have done all that is required to be done.

Being honest about what we failed to do provides us the opportunity to take necessary steps to accomplish our goals.

There is the tendency to always think that somebody else or a government policy is the cause of our failure but if we think deeply we may just find out that we are the cog in our own wheel of progress.

I set a number of goals for myself during this year which I didn’t accomplish.

I don’t need any expert to tell me why I failed. I know I didn’t do my best. I know I procrastinated and didn’t act when I should have acted. I talked too much about my dreams and projects instead of acting on them.

For the remaining days of this year, critically review how well you have done and be determined to do better next year guided by the goal of doing your best always.

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THE NATION ON SUNDAY DECEMBER 23, 2012

Comment & Analysis

Foundation for a great nation Ogochukwu Ikeje ohgeeoh@gmail.com 08084235961 (SMS only)

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NATION is like a house. It needs a strong foundation to stand. Lay a weak foundation and wait for the result. When the wind blows you will be embarrassed. If it is a whirlwind or a storm, you might find the eastern wing or the western half blown away. For all you care, the north side or southern part of your house might be detached. The entire structure, for that matter, could even come crashing down. At best, you are condemned to perpetual patch-work.

It is an uncomfortable situation with a sinking feeling.

Every now and again, this otherwise great nation, with a lot to intimidate the world, faces such situations. Only a strong institutional foundation will save us the embarrassments and frustrations those situations bring.

Let us consider a few recent incidents.

Even as Nigerians mourned former National Security Adviser Gen Andrew Azazi, erstwhile Kaduna State Governor Patrick Yakowa and four other Nigerians who died in penultimate weekend helicopter crash in Bayelsa State, the Presidency is said to be uncomfortable with the position of the state governors. The issue appears simple. President Goodluck Jonathan ordered a probe of the crash. But the governors, who lost one of their own, do not want to sit back and wait for the report; they would rather send an investigator of their own to participate in the in-

Strong institutional structure will prevent our constant embarrassments vestigations either directly or as an observer.

The Presidency is feeling slighted, reasoning, according to reports, that the governors’ position amounts to lack of confidence in the probe. The Presidency is understandably embarrassed. For what good is its decision if state governors, crucial as they are, have nothing but scorn for it. But it is not just the Jonathan administration that is embarrassed; the entire country is equally humiliated. In a matter like this, the Jonathan Presidency and the state executives should sing a common tune. After all, the issue is the probe of a tragic death and a national loss.

Still, we can all understand the governors’ gripe. For so long, probes have yielded little or nothing, much to the chagrin of every Nigerian. Our tragedies and disasters are often probed, but we have gained nothing from them because their results are shielded from the public. There

is a sense of double tragedy because on the one hand there is profound grief from the disasters, and on the other, muchneeded cash is mobilised to fund the investigations. No one can say how many billions or trillions we have lost to probes.

For decades, we have not laid a good foundation or set a standard in resolving our tragedies through probes. The disenchantment of the governors and embarrassment of the Presidency are a direct fallout of that profound national error.

Before the Bayelsa crash, a school Principal Rev Olufunke Oladeojobi of Ajuwon Senior High School in Ogun State was reported to have conducted a virginity test on some 10 pupils of the institution. The examination was said to have been conducted on the floor of Rev Oladeojobi’s office, with a guest nurse in action and a number of in-house staff observing the proceedings. Outsiders would probably have missed the event but for the bleeding

“Six years ago, WHO said any country with fewer than 2.3 doctors, nurses and midwives per 1,000 people was in danger of facing a critical shortage of health workers. Now with a deficit of 144,000 personnel in our health facilities, we are the seventh highest of 57 countries facing such crisis in our health sector. That is instructive. It explains why the few health workers we can find are easily irritated at patients’ inquiry. Quarrels ensue often. Queues are insufferably long. Midwives dispense insults, even slaps, in the labour room”

incident reported by one of the tested pupils. That reportedly sent parents rushing to Ajuwon Senior, and the Principal to a panel of police questioners. Oladeojobi denied testing the girls, according to one report, but admitted doing so in another, saying the exam was “to help them”. Everyone is horrified. The doctors say she dared to do what even medical personnel are not allowed to contemplate. Lawyers say the test is “actionable”, meaning she can be sued. The Ogun State government has justifiably suspended her pending the conclusion of investigations (that word again).

A good foundation would have prevented all that. Standards jealously protected will keep a school principal, whether a Reverend or a senior atheist, from contemplating such a horrible, criminal act, let alone executing it.

Last week, it was also reported that Nigeria has a critical shortfall of 144,000 health workers. Professor Boluwaji Fajemilehin of the Department of Nursing Science, College of Medicine, University of Lagos, said World Health Organisation (WHO) identified the country as lacking that crucial number of health workers.

Six years ago, according to the report, WHO said any country with fewer than 2.3 doctors, nurses, and midwives per 1,000 people was in danger of facing a critical shortage of health workers. Now with a deficit of 144,000 personnel in our health facilities, Nigeria is the seventh highest among 57 countries facing such crisis in our health sector.

That is instructive. We have not yet set a foundation for our health sector. That explains why the few health workers we can find are easily irritated at patients’ inquiry. Quarrels ensue often. Queues are insufferably long at the hospitals. Midwives dispense insults, even slaps, in the labour room. Such unprofessional conduct may not derive from natural traits but from numerical shortfall at the workplace. It explains why we the rich fly away to foreign hospitals.

It is clear. There are no foundations.

Can we begin to lay them now?

THE NATION ON SUNDAY DECEMBER 23, 2012

Comment & Analysis

15

Goodluck and God President Jonathan cannot use God as an excuse for incompetence

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HE disturbing tendency for President Goodluck Jonathan to utter statements which amount to a virtual abdication of responsibility made an unwelcome reappearance at the 2012 Holy Ghost Congress of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), where he announced that he had entrusted Nigeria to God’s care.

In addition, he reassured the congregation, comprising thousands of worshippers, public office-holders and prominent clerics that he would continue to ensure that his administration is transparent and expressed the conviction that the nation would overcome its challenges. He also attributed his victory at the 2011 elections to the RCCG’s respected General Overseer, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, and the support of the church’s teeming followers.

At first glance, it would seem that the President did not do anything out of the ordinary. National leaders routinely invoke the protection and blessings of God upon the countries they lead. Regular reassurances that a people will eventually overcome difficult times are a staple of committed governance in most participatory democracies. If the country in question is one in which strong religious beliefs are common, as is the case in Nigeria, the constant invocation of God’s name is certainly in order.

However, as is so often the case with President Jonathan, a virtue has become a vice.

At the RCCG event, he appeared to have forgotten that while Nigerians fervently worship God, He was not on the ballot in 2011. The person they voted for was Goodluck Jonathan.

The President did not remember that he made several promises on the campaign trail. He forgot that he swore a solemn oath to work for the upliftment of Nigeria and its people. Instead of taking responsibility for his extremely well-paid office, he sought to turn the burden of governing over to the Creator, while keeping the considerable perks of office for himself and his

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AM disappointed at the small column dedicated to the story of the Nigerian lady who was traumatically victimised and harassed by her former expatriate employers Bollore Africa Logistics Nigeria Limited, I expect The Nation to have done a better caption especially as this is a very serious ongoing international topic of discussion.

We the women of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, are exceptionally proud of her courage to speak out, many women within the same organisations and even local Nigerian companies are suffering in silence but cannot challenge the issue of violence which comes in different forms because we all know what the poor economic standard of living is today and many women are the foundations of their family.

We say thank you Abigail Kakiyes for speaking out and we encourage more victims to summon the courage so we stand in one voice against the demon of violence against women, it is demeaning and barbaric and must be punishable by law. There

cronies.

Turning his presidential responsibilities over to God is only the latest in a continual stream of statements in which Jonathan has sought to dodge hard choices and avoid responsibility.

When Abuja was bombed during the Independence Day celebrations of 2010, he claimed that terrorism was a global phenomenon and that it was now Nigeria’s turn to experience it. When the Boko Haram menace began to spread, he complained that the fundamentalist sect had infiltrated his government without giving any indication of what he was doing to resolve it. As disappointment with his policies became widespread, he told the nation in a recent media chat that he never promised to end poverty.

Far from reassuring a populace that is becoming increasingly sceptical about his capacity to lead, the President’s remarks at the RCCG convention simply increased growing doubts about his leadership. He spoke about a continuing commitment to transparency and to doing “what is right,” but has lamentably failed to demonstrate this commitment in practice.

Throughout 2012, a succession of scandals in pensions administration, the capital market and the oil subsidy programme provided Jonathan with golden opportunities to demonstrate his

TRUTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM

•Editor Festus Eriye •Deputy Editor Olayinka Oyegbile •Associate Editors Taiwo Ogundipe Sam Egburonu

•Managing Director/ Editor-in-Chief Victor Ifijeh •Chairman, Editorial Board Sam Omatseye •General Editor Kunle Fagbemi

LETTERS

adherence to transparency, accountability and the rule of law. Instead of grasping them with both hands, he has shamefully failed to live up to expectation. As can now be seen, his main tactic is to deflect attention from the issues and play for time by setting up committees to investigate scandals, only to undermine them and thereby ensure that their findings are never implemented. It happened in the Dana crash report, the Lawan-Otedola subsidy bribe scandal, the privatisation of power stations and the Ribadu committee report.

To make matters worse, President Jonathan decided to turn a purely religious gathering into a political convention by his dubious references to the alleged support of Pastor Adeboye and the RCCG as a whole in his political campaign.

Regardless of what he may think, neither Adeboye nor the RCCG is on record as having endorsed Jonathan’s presidential campaign; to imply that they did so is disingenuous and dishonest. His poor judgement is all the more amazing, given the tensions which currently characterise Nigeria as a multi-religious entity.

Such manipulations like this should serve as a warning to the nation’s religious leaders not to get too close to politicians, especially those holding public office. Such is their fixation on elections that they will use anybody whom they think can help them to achieve popularity.

Nigeria’s clerics should follow the example of an individual like South Africa’s Bishop Desmond Tutu, whose commitment to political freedom and social justice was not tainted by any intimacy with those in power.

As for President Jonathan, he should realise that the citizenry is tired of promises, excuses, explanations and committees. He was elected in his own recognition to lead Nigeria to a brighter tomorrow of freedom and prosperity. It is time for him to start leading. God is a hardworking God and He has been playing His part in the country’s affairs; President Jonathan should play his.

Violation of women’s rights is no better time to address this issue than now as the Nigerian constitution is been reviewed. The government of the day must be more proactive towards issues of women and children, we want more action than promises!

If you do a thorough research on the company,

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AYING tributes to Oghenejode Patrick I have to quote one of my favourite books in the Bible and that is the book of Ecclesiastes. It should be for anyone who actually believes that life is meaningless. In this direction, William Shakespeare was so apt in that famous quotation, “Out, out brief candle, life is but a walking shadow. A poor player that struts and frets his hour upon the stage and then is heard no more. It is a tale told by an idiot, full of sound and fury, signifying nothing.”

Again, in the words of Friedrich Nietzche (18441900) “we can take pre-

you would find out that this is not the first time they have been reported to be involved in serious human right violations, it is happening in Sierra Leone where shockingly, a rich Group owned by the 18th richest man in France Vincent Bollore, is robbing very poor African farmers.

Women and children are affected and suffering from the evil acts of this same company.

My take is this government must investigate the story of Abigail Kakiyes and look into the activities of this French company which has fired a Nigerian staff for suggesting Corpo-

rate Social Responsibility (CSR). Is CSR not mandatory for such a company?

What value have they added in their over 30 years of existence in Nigeria? Can they try this nonsense in France or any Western nation?

I call on the National Assembly, well meaning

Nigerians and activist organisations to arrest this matter squarely and begin looking into the activities of expatriate organisations because a lot of rubbish is actually happening to Nigerians in their employ. Nigerians are looked down upon abroad, we cannot allow racism in our homeland. This must stop!

By Abike Rawling Lekki, Lagos

Tribute to Patrick Oghenejode cautions against all sorts of things, but so far as death is concerned, we, all of us live like a defenceless citadel”. This makes the grim transition of this crowd puller, bosom friend, professional printer cum administrator par excellence, goal getter and the rites of sorrow we bear over the death quite severe indeed.

For while death has always been an irreparable loss, the death of Mr. Patrick Ayiwe Adohor Oghenejode popularly known as “Payo” retired Assistant Director (Administration) at the Petro-

leum Training Institute (PTI), Effurun, Delta State who devoted his entire life and energy to causes dear to the hearts of humanity is a peculiar kind of agony.

In fact, poets and philosophers tell us that death can be life, a higher life, a regeneration of the self, in the same way in fact that the flower is pruned to groom a greater foliage, in the same way the egg is cracked to make omelets. We must all have the strong conviction in life-after-death and the possibility of Mr. Patrick

Ayiwe Adohor Oghenejode continuing to serve even after his death.

From whichever perspective Oghenejode’s career is assessed, the virtues of consistency, sincerity of purpose, courage of conviction, utmost selflessness and doggedness in pursuing the people’s cause cannot be denied.

Even those who may have cause to disagree with some of his actions and pronouncements cannot deny that his commitment to the realization of the common good is total.

The truth, however, is

that we live to die, and die to live again. God in His love has not entirely condemned man. There is a life after this one and we can only get there by dying. We die to live again.

So Patrick Ayiwe Adohor Oghenejode (Payo) will live again, let us not weep for him. This is because death is indeed the ultimate appointment everybody would be ready for.

By Charles Ikedikwa Soeze, Petroleum Training Institute, Efurrun, Delta State.

SEND TYPEWRITTEN, DOUBLE SPACED AND SIGNED CONTRIBUTIONS, LETTERS AND REJOINDERS OF NOT MORE THAN 500 WORDS TO THE EDITOR, THE NATION, 27B, FATAI ATERE ROAD, MATORI, LAGOS: sundaynation@yahoo.com

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Ropo Sekoni ropo.sekoni @thenationonlineng.net

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AST week’s conclusion asserts that America’s entry into the international petroleum market as a gas and petroleum exporter (as distinct from its many decades of being an importer) will force Nigerian political leaders and citizens to accept the end of miracles as the solution to national economic and social problems. In other words, the existence in the future of what does not exist now or of what exists now and may not exist in the future in the petroleum market will push trustees or guardians of Nigeria’s politics to accept that the best route to national development is an economic culture that encourages citizens to engage in production, the way it was all over Nigeria until 1966.

It is important for the country’s economic planners to replace platitudes with policies that can meaningfully diversify the country’s economy, without allowing current inflow of petrodollars to distract them from going back to the fundamental law of culture: no distribution before production. Since General Gowon was reported as saying that money was not Nigeria’s problems in the 1970s, Nigeria has been preoccupied with distribution without production. This is why it has not been able for the country to invest in infrastructure that can fuel development: energy, rail, road, water, etc. Nigeria has been dependent on the 57% of revenue from oil that accrued from oil sale for several decades. This culture of Sadaka, Awuufu, or Saraa (free loading) is best captured by the name of one of the

Femi Orebe femi.orebe @thenationonlineng.net 08056504626 (sms only)

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THE NATION ON SUNDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2012

Comment & Analysis

S captured in part 1, this trilogy which commenced with an analysis of the horrible events that shaped Nigeria in 2012, will today interrogate the roads, which if taken would have, most probably, turned things around significantly. When a newspaper columnist who, like yours truly, has not personally been tested in higher public office, sets out to interrogate issues of this nature, even apportioning blames here and there, all he is saying is that with the benefit of hindsight, some actions, other than those taken, would have redounded better to the country’s well-being and that the polity should have been a lot better than what it is today. We need not delay ourselves here by again enumerating things like insecurity, terror, corruption or the all-pervading fear in the land as some of the demons voraciously tearing at the very heart of Nigerians during the year.

They have been too much of an everyday danger to forget, even momentarily. They have become so real they cumulatively succeeded in changing those things we have, for a very long time, come to regard as our unalterable lifestyles.

For some, to now travel by air or by road has become a real problem. One now has to put his/her house in order, not knowing whether that journey would be the last since other real life-threatening demons are alive and kicking; waiting there in the wings: accidents, armed robbers –an army General was killed by some Hausa-

America’s petroleum and Nigeria’s future (2) The years of less revenue from fossil energy will strengthen the territorial unity of Nigeria country’s foremost agencies, Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation and Fiscal Commission, most graphically in the emphasis on assembling and making ready for use that mobilisation suggests.

If after 50 years of underdevelopment of the country’s infrastructure despite decades of oil boom, America’s entry into the petroleum and gas market as exporter reduces Nigeria’s revenue from oil and gas, Nigeria may enter a critical phase that will call for new thinking on the part of leaders and citizens. Many things that have been taken for granted since 1966 will call for review, especially the country’s political structure.

Once the flow of funds to the central government declines (as surely it will once the percentage of oil and gas it can sell to other countries goes down), existing states will attempt to become development centers, rather than distribution centers that they have been since military dictators initiated the culture of creating states and sustaining them with funds from the federation account. The existing 36 states and 774 local governments will certainly have difficulties meeting their monthly bills: salaries to civil servants and other sectors of public service in particular. Retrenchment or downsizing the public sector will become imperative at the beginning for most states. But leaders that are unlucky to be in office when revenue

decline occurs will have to adopt the maxim: necessity is the mother of invention. Otherwise, they may be chased out of office by angry citizens, the way it happened in many Arab countries a few years back. They will have to move from the ingrained culture of profligacy and corruption made possible by cheap oil money to providing infrastructure and support for a productive private sector.

The sudden shift of attention from the federal government as the dispenser of funds to states and local governments to states and local governments as laboratories and factories for production will renew calls for restoration of functional federalism. No state will be prepared to pass gains from the sweat of its citizens to the federal government to share among states and local governments in the name of even development.

States and local governments will have to compete with each other, just as they will also cooperate with each other in their effort to respond to the new development challenges to be thrown by decline in oil revenue.

States that are currently calling for people’s constitution, restructuring of the polity, and devolution of power will be more aggressive in their demands, more so when the easy monthly or quarterly allocation from the federation account ceases to be useful to sustain the appearance of governance and government that

most states have enjoyed since 1966.

As each state struggles to produce what its citizens consume, it will need to have full supervisory power over its economy and polity.

The mantra that only the federal police can keep Nigeria united will be challenged more forcefully by states that require efficient and dedicated police to enforce laws and sustain public order. States will resist the usual practice of collecting VAT and fees for driving license and vehicle registration for the federal government to share among states on the basis of land mass and population estimate. States with ports will aggressively ask for compensation for port facilities in their states, rather than beg for special financial support or special status from the federal government. For example, the demand on the federal government to give Lagos a special status that will require additional funds from the federal government will be replaced by demands for a percentage of revenue from use of Lagos ports. Other states with port facilities, such as Delta, Cross River, and Rivers, will make similar demands for revenue sharing with the federal government from port revenue.

Regionalism or regional integration will become a common model of development across the country once the easy flow of revenue from petroleum and gas ceases or reduces considerably in the years beyond 2020.

The horrible year 2012 (2) Fulani urchins few kilometres to Lagos – and the fear of the ubiquitous kidnapper is real and present.

Our already overwhelmed security people look on helpless, except where the kidnapped is the father or mother of a serving minister.

That the spouse of the kidnapped is a former envoy, or legislator, now counts for nothing.

Plato’s theory of the Philosopher king, formulated in the REPUBLIC, in which formal laws would have been unnecessary because of the presumed rationality and virtue of the ruler, has been shown for what it is - a mere wishful thinking - since no man is God. Leaders are therefore not immune to mistakes. What is, however, unforgivable, is a do-nothing leadership when horrors assail the citizenry at will as we have seen time and again in the course of the year. A leadership that shows no discernment, which knows not that infringements of the law should be handsomely punished, therefore merely increases the agony of a people. A leader has to lead by directing intelligently and effectively, or how did Professor Gana put it?One of the many problems Nigerians have had to endure this year has been mostly psychological and has to do with how corruption has simply ballooned. You no longer hear them steal in millions or even billions–though small ones like the pension woman in whose house stolen billions were found still do – they now basically do it in trillions. Listening to the National Assembly Committee on Pensions and Alhaji Maina bandy the many trillions that have been stolen from the pension funds of old people who now queue and die on pension lines had been thor-

We sowed the wind long ago and now, the whirlwind is here with a vengeance oughly mind bogging. And the presidency looks on, happy and content, telling all that care that it has set up this committee or that since governance has since been concessioned to committees.

Then, like Herod, the presidency simply washes off its hands from any responsibility, claiming that Jonathan is not the judiciary. And you begin to wonder whether the buck no longer stops at the president’s table.

The year 2012 has been something of a harvesting time for us as a people. We sowed the wind long ago and now, the whirlwind is here with a vengeance. While we cared less as a people, our rulers not leaders - in the real sense of the word messed us up beyond repairs.

General Obasanjo had left office handing over to persons who possessed none of his dare- devilry and so to deal with the demons he created, and left behind, had since become the problem.

Once his succession plan of selfperpetuation failed, he should have quickly re-ordered things and ensure that transparency became the order of the day, even, if only in the election process. Unfortunately, he elected to make our burden bigger by inflicting on us, as his immediate successor, a man who was ill and had n’t the wherewithal to shoulder the responsibilities of state. Were that limited to Yar Adua, may be, just maybe, we still could have put our house in order.

But with President Jonathan’s own vaulting ambition, fuelled by the hate- induced poli-

tics of some PDP elders, our problems escalated. Edged on by the movers and shakers of the Southern wing of the PDP, with assurances that the North could do nothing, Jonathan threw his hat into the ring and the consequences have since bedeviled the country. The North, even if not as a conscious design, and by a very small portion of it, has since shown it can do a lot to make life real difficult for the average Nigerian but much more for its ruling class which today can no longer sleep with its two eyes closed. A little known, even beggarly Boko Haram, which was largely a helpmate to some insecure ANPP politicians in the NorthEast at the time, has since transmuted to a pan-regional, man-consuming terror gang with all the potentials to further transform to a regional army for those who lost power and want power back.

Doubt this: look no further than President Jonathan shouting from the roof tops that Boko Haram has infiltrated his government. It has gotten far worse as Christians now go to church in the North, every Sunday, not knowing if they will not meet their maker therein.

And now to the pertinent questions as to roads not taken: Why did it not occur to President Jonathan that he would have had no option to remaining Yar Adua’s loyal deputy for four more years if the late President did not die? Why would the PDP, at both the individual and corporate levels, display such indiscipline that it could so easily jettison its zoning formula? What was it that drove the

The current competition among states on exhibitionism in the use of public funds will give way to cooperation in design and execution of projects that can advance development in contiguous states. The reality of scarce resources that may result from revenue decline from the federation account funded largely from proceeds from oil and gas will stimulate the culture of prudence in states that do not want to go bankrupt. Citizens whose taxes become the largest source of revenue for the government will demand an end to low-class self-promotion of political leaders and their family in newspaper adverts at the expense of public funds.

The sections of the country that have sworn not to allow the country’s post-military federal government to devolve power to states will become more realistic about the imperative of restructuring, once the oil and gas revenue that has been lubricating the country’s chain of unity goes south. Such leaders will have no choice but to accept that it is only parasite without a sense of self-preservation that will depend on an emaciated host. Such states will loosen their grip on the federation and cooperate with those calling for true federalism, not out of altruistic interest but out of the need to have control over their own hard-earned resources in the years beyond today’s bountiful harvest from oil and gas.

However, the years of less revenue from fossil energy will strengthen the territorial unity of Nigeria. No state or region of the country (not even the Niger Delta) will feel strong enough to want to opt out of Nigeria. A country that has since 1966 seen itself as one united by oil will start to see itself as needing to stay together in order to grow out of poverty. But the country’s unity will cease to be nominal or symbolic; it will be one with a purpose. The country will morph into a site for what Ben Nwabueze calls ‘diversity in unity’. southern protagonists of Jonathan against their Northern counterparts who rightly believed there was more than a gentleman’s agreement on the issue of rotational presidency? Were a Northerner the president today, would Boko Haram have become this deadly? And, finally, with the reported collaboration between Boko Haram and other international terror organisations, is n’t Nigeria destined to be branded a terrorist country with all the attendant consequences?

Only the unappreciative would say that the South South, off which the country lives, does not deserve the presidency. But what would it have cost it to wait four more years?That faux pas, of Jonathan being pressured into contesting the last presidential election, is the very reason corruption has ballooned in the country. Candidate Jonathan had to outspend a very rich Abubakar Atiku, the ‘candidate’ of the North and a high net worth individual with an equally massive network. Funds subsequently came from sources known and unknown recouping which has seen the Jonathan government giving not a little helping hand to some of those who have subsequently fleeced the country. It is interesting, for instance, to note that before the Ribadu Report was messed up, it was already raking in billions of the monies owed the NNPC but that had to stop when the government panicked.

Apparently some sacred cows must have been at work. A less compromised government would have been able to give the fight to those outright rogues who fraudulently claimed billions of naira on vessels that never as much as visited the West African coast, not to talk of bringing fuel to Nigeria. Now they are talking of plea bargaining; a route this government will ultimately support as it cannot bear to see its friends go to jail.

To be concluded; as the final part takes a look at the South-West - the solitary oasis in the country.

Comment & Analysis

THE NATION ON SUNDAY DECEMBER 23, 2012

Tunji

Adegboyega tunjade@yahoo.co.uk 08054503906 (sms only)

T

WO Things are common when a year is about to end: the first is the New Year resolution/s that many people make and the second, which is customary, especially with the media, is the ‘Man of the Year’ concept.

For instance, TIME magazine has just chosen President Barack Obama as its ‘Man of the Year’ for 2012. While the propriety or otherwise of the choice is still being debated, the fact is that the magazine has made its preference public; people are bound to agree or disagree with it. The same way some people might disagree with my choice of ‘subsidy fraud’ as ‘Man of the Year’.

Again, that is my choice and I am perfectly entitled to it. There is no democracy about this. And if there is, it is in the freedom of everyone else to also freely choose theirs.

I guess this is the first time in over two decades of my maintaining columns that I would be choosing a ‘Man of the Year’. Obviously, my decision was informed by the reality that subsidy fraud has simply refused to disappear from the front-burner of national discourse in the country since January when it became a burning national issue. Of course Nigerians had been talking about fuel subsidy since the military years. We have also had subsidy protests since then; but none compared with the reaction of Nigerians to the issue last January, when sustained riots made the government to reduce, rather than completely remove, the socalled subsidy it claims to be paying on petrol.

No doubt the country occupies a

Postscript, Unlimited!

By

Oyinkan Medubi 07057012862 (SMS only) puchuckles7@gmail.com

W

HAT with the recent events in this country resulting in the loss of some of our valued nationals through the crash of an aircraft, the mood is really not very bright right now for celebrating. The thing about the seasons, however, is that they will come and go, come rain or shine. So indeed, the rains and the shines do come in spite of all that man may have lost. It is up to the living to carry on the business of forging a way through this dark vale that Nigerians have found themselves in. The problem though is the tendency of the same fellow Nigerians to add more darkness to the existing darkness by choosing to display wickedness over love towards others through bombings, kidnapping, killing, embezzling, etc. As if our dark skins were not enough, we must draw veils of blackness over our hearts and minds just to make life more difficult for our fellow countrymen.

Perhaps the reason is that instead of red blood cells running through our veins, we have ... you guessed it.

This season, I determined to show that only red blood cells flow within my veins. I would behave like a human being and display more generosity of spirit towards others, in spite of myself or them. I would begin by celebrating Christ-

17

My ‘Man of the Year’? Let ‘subsidy fraud’ please step forward!

No doubt, it merits the gold conspicuous position among the most corrupt nations; so, one could have asked, ‘why not write on corruption generally’? But corruption has now become a nebulous concept in Nigeria.

‘Corruption the Great’ has now begotten children, grand-children, greatchildren, etc. in Nigeria and one does not even know what its genealogy looks like here anymore. It is such a serious matter that even elementary school pupils can write volumes on.

And, if ever Mother Corruption dies in the country, and there is such a bitter struggle to succeed it (because there are so many competent offspring to take its place), subsidy fraud will surely be a frontrunner.

What I am saying in effect is that it is better to be specific when talking about corruption in Nigeria. Which brand or leg of it are you talking about?

Is it pension fraud? Is it corruption by way of inflation of contracts, etc?

Hence, I decided to narrow today’s write-up to the fuel subsidy fraud and I hope it is eminently qualified to be so acclaimed. We started the outgoing

year with fuel subsidy riots and up till now, we are yet to get out of it. Yes, the riots appear over, whether temporarily or permanently, we do not know yet because we do not know what other surprise the government might want to spring on subsidy. As a matter of fact, subsidy fraud seems to be acquiring a life of its own, and is also giving birth to all kinds of offspring, including acrimonies, court cases, unending probe panels, etc.

A few weeks ago, the Federal Government asked the National Assembly to appropriate another N161.6billion to enable it meet up with the expected subsidy claims for the year. The government had estimated about N888.1billion for this but just realised that the amount would not be enough.

Already, both houses have consented, meaning that by year-end, we must have spent about N1.3trilion on fuel subsidy since no one returns any ‘change’ to government in the country.

Fuel subsidy has come with all sorts of things, from allegations of a

“The fact is that ‘Corruption the Great’ has now begotten children, grand-children, great-children, etc. in Nigeria and one does not even know what its genealogy looks like here anymore … And, if ever Mother Corruption dies in the country, and there is such a bitter struggle to succeed it (because there are so many competent offspring to take its place), subsidy fraud will surely be a frontrunner”

certain company that is allegedly not registered but got N2.7billion from subsidy funds without supplying a litre of fuel. We were inundated with government’s worries emanating from stern warning on the alleged company, but where is the matter today? There is the ‘if you Ubah me, I Maduka you’ issue now before some courts at home and abroad. Fuel subsidy has also brought out the ingenuity in a private citizen usurping the role, as it were, of the security agencies by way of ‘sting operation’. The bee actually stung as the lawmaker involved finally stepped down from the exalted office of chairman of the committee involved. We have also been treated to free video allegedly showing who was offering, or who was taking bribe, or both.

These are not all: we have also seen the subsidy fraud producing allegations and counter-allegations of bribery and what have you. The same subsidy mess has produced even further mess by way of people on subsidy probe panel getting plum appointments into government’s opaque oil firm, the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC). While one became a member of the board of directors, the other became director of finance! Yet, we are being told daily of government’s sincerity about getting to the root of the subsidy scam. Tell me; in which civilised clime could such a thing have been possible? Indeed, we have seen a lot in the last 11 months on subsidy fraud, but the supervising minister has remained on her seat like the Rock of Gibraltar, unmovable and unshaken, leading to speculations that

she is not an ordinary woman, but one with nine lives.

The way things are, Nigeria’s subsidy regime has remained a jigsaw puzzle. That partly explains why it has refused to leave the centre-stage of public discourse. But one thing that flows from all the probes into the subsidy fraud is the fact that Nigeria has been ripped off. From the parliamentary probe into subsidy, to the AigImoukhuede’s, down to the Ribadu panel, it was clear that Nigeria has been swindled through and through, with subsidy as conduit. The reports may be different in terms of what they alleged had been stolen, but they confirm widespread fears that some fuel marketers got paid for fuel they never imported, or that was sold abroad. One parliamentary probe said about $6.8 billion must have been lost to subsidy fraud over three years.

Of course it is a racket involving even government officials and agencies because the importers could not have done the deals all alone; as they say, it takes two to tango.

The fact that not much is happening by way of punishing the culprits, particularly those in government, has naturally led to fears that part of the stolen subsidy money was spent on last year’s elections. The implication, if this is true (it is yet to be convincingly explained otherwise, though), is that any attempt to retrieve our money might be another wild goose chase. We may never be able to get to the bottom of the matter, at least not in the lifetime of the Jonathan presidency. We will be lucky if we get an insignificant fraction of it back. Are you still asking why?

The Christmas that got away Yes, indeed, Christmas can get away, folks, aided and abetted by the government through its bad economic policies mas. So, as soon as I could hear carol notes belting into the air from the taped voices of well-fed carollers, I determined to bring some Christmas cheer into the house by getting a good Christmas tree and some lights to make the house look less like Ebenezer Scrooge’s shanty.

The first tree I saw appeared friendly enough. It should be, I grumpily thought, considering it was made of synthetic rubber and had been set permanently at the friendly mode so that even the renegade Christian should want to put one up in a conspicuous corner of his/her house. The price put on it actually went through the roof but I managed to rummage through my purse and came up with the sum. I was determined to be generous to the seller.

I also wanted to extend some real peace and goodwill to all this season, so I set out with the will to obtain the biggest turkey or at least something close to it. Before I got to the chicken stall, however, I was given a live one. I did the humane thing: I took it for a drive through the town. Don’t get me wrong: I have eaten a chicken or two in my life time; but the ones I eat are not usually my friends. This one became my friend the minute I held him.

Now, how was I going to eat him? I mean, you don’t do that kind of thing to a friend, just not the ton.

I took the chicken for a drive through the town because I thought that would convince both of us of the inherent dangers in our friendship. The poor thing squirmed and

squeaked continuously either in fright or discomfort. I took it to be discomfort, since the air coming in through the windows was quite, quite hot. So I went a step further in the business of being humane: I turned on the air conditioner for it out of the generosity of my heart.

Ah! I thought the chicken should appreciate the gesture but I don’t think he quite understood it enough as the clucking went on at varied decibel levels. At the first opportunity, I disposed of it out of generosity to myself and the peace of my ears. That was when I found myself in a real quandary. It never occurred to me that I was letting Christmas get away.

My standard joke at the approach of any festival is to enjoin my friends to please ensure the safety of their offerings such as chickens, rams, turkeys, etc., so that when it comes time to extend their hands of friendship and love to me, there would be no excuses. The joke is that the excuses still come in various hues and colours, and they go something like: yea well, I remembered you but you see I had more visitors than I prepared for; or the blessed thing got away in spite of the day and night vigils of the army of young and eager guardians in my neighbourhood; or, and best of them all, the chicken, ram or turkey was a bit reluctant to die so we had pity on it and let it go! No problem, I say to them, Christmas is around the corner when I hope to also extend the same generosity of spirit to my own sacrificial

offering.

The quandary now was getting a less expensive, less friendly chicken to offer as a sacrifice in celebration of the season. Perhaps I should just offer a variety of excuses too. I could go, so sorry but the chicken I got did not get home with me. No, that sounds lame.

How about, sorry but the turkey was a little too expensive, staggered too drunkenly and cackled insults at passers-by. No, that would make me sound drunkenly too. So, why don’t I just settle down to the age-old, traditional, wellworn and well known excuse? The turkey bolted when it saw the knife; I mean, who would not believe that?!

Once, a man had purchased and tied up a cow to slaughter at his daughter’s wedding ceremony.

However, while no one was looking, the clever cow managed to chew through the cord used to tie it and bolted. The father of the bride, already harassed by the economic burden of his daughter’s wedding, immediately bolted after it shouting, along with neighbours and friends, ‘catch it for me, catch that cow for me, that’s my daughter’s wedding! That’s my daughter’s wedding going!’ Yes indeed, the cow got away but the man thought it was the fault of his neighbours who did not run hard enough.

Just as that cow got away, Christmas can indeed get away, aided and abetted by the government (through its bad economic

policies), individuals (who cannot stand the clucking or cackles of their sacrificial offerings) or neighbours who refuse to run fast enough to catch one’s escaped and convicted chickens. Whatever the cause of Christmas attempting to escape from your clutches this year, you must fight it, even if it means shouting after it. That may not do you much good though, any more than it did our father of the bride in the story above, but at least your friends will know enough not to sit down and be expecting a miracle of the loaves and fishes from you as if you were Jesus.

Yes, Jesus did do a lot while he was here on earth, didn’t he? This is why we must celebrate the season doing what he did: display an uncommon generosity of spirit.

We must go around giving and forgiving; living and letting live; and above all, loving all men and women. Oh you!, you know what I mean. Out of the generosity of my heart, I gave an air-conditioned ride to a chicken; what have you done to help someone this season?

Friends, things must change.

Nigerians and Nigerian leaders must now earnestly begin to appreciate the lesson that what matters in the long run is not how many houses an individual manages to build or how much money he/she manages to stash away in Swiss banks or Cayman Island banks or how much money he/she leaves behind for loving and loveless relatives to fight over, but the simple acts of generosity that one leaves behind. In the long run, as one person put it, what matters is the generosity of spirit that one has displayed in one’s lifetime. Have a beautiful time this Christmas!

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THE NATION ON SUNDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2012

Comment & Analysis

Insights into onshore – offshore dichotomy B

EFORE the advent of the 1999 constitution, the principle of derivation was subjected to severe and whimsical gerrymandering by the various Presidents and Heads of State that had ruled Nigeria. This was due to the fact that, though the principle had been acknowledged and accepted there was no governing FORMULAR. Up till 1970, derivation stood at fifty percent. Decree No 113 of 1970, put forward by the late sage Chief Obafemi Awolowo and promulgated

by General Yakubu Gowon (Rtd) reduced it to 45% and at the same time appropriated the entire offshore oil revenue to the federal government. That was the sad beginning of the onshore-offshore dichotomy. But it was an emergency war time effort to secure enough money with which to prosecute the war by the federal government and to reconstruct Nigeria. The minority people of the oil producing states were persuaded to make this sacrifice in the interest of the unity and development of this country. It was expected that this arrangement would end with Gowon’s Reconstruction Programme.

Instead, in 1977, General Olusegun Obasanjo (Rtd) as the Head of State took another 20% to the centre, thus reducing the allocation to the derivation to 25%. At the same time he held on to the entire offshore production revenue thus maintaining the onshore-offshore dichotomy. In 1981, even an elected political regime which was expected to be democratic, Alhaji Shehu Shagari removed yet another 20% thus reducing derivation on onshore oil to 5%. In 1984, General Mohammed Buhari (Rtd) further removed 3.5% thus reducing it to 1.5% while still holding on to the offshore revenue.

It was only General Ibrahim Babangida (Rtd), who was not called Maradonna for nothing that did something unique and interesting.

While he reduced derivation to 1%, he introduced an ameliorating fund called OMPADEC at 3% for the development of the oil region. This effectively raised the total due to derivation to 4%. President Babangida ‘s 4% applied to the entire revenue from oil – both off and onshore. This de facto abolished the onshore – offshore dichotomy and marked the beginning of the restoration of justice and fair play to the suffering people of the Niger Delta region.

On realizing that the 1979 constitution and the subsequent Allocation of Revenue Act (Cap16) had failed to specifically address the vexed issue of onshore-offshore dichotomy, President Babangida proceeded, by Decree 106 of 1992 to amend the Act. The amendment states: “an amount equivalent to 1% of the Federation Account derived

T L

HIS has been the deadliest year for journalists, according to both the International Press Institute (IPI) and the Paris-based press watchdog, Reporters Without Borders (RSF).

Though the totals of deaths they have compiled differ, due to each using different criteria, the story is tragically similar.

The bald numbers show 88 journalists were killed (up 33% on the year before) and a further 47 people described as “netizens and citizen journalists” were killed along with six “media assistants.” That’s a total of 141.

Then 879 journalists were arrested (plus a further 144 bloggers and netizens); 1,993 journalists were threatened or physically attacked; 38 journalists were kidnapped; and 73 journalists fled their countries.

The worst-hit regions were the Middle East and northern Africa (with 26 killed), Asia (24 killed) and subSaharan Africa (21 killed). Only the

is going against the constitution by his reintroduction of the onshore – offshore dichotomy was considered unacceptable in a democracy.

Those who today are bringing up the issue of dichotomy should not forget that we can be as divisive as we wish in this country but the international community does not have to go along with us. The international community will not recognize two boundaries for Nigeria – the one given by the littoral states at the low water mark and the other by our Exclusive Economic Zone. This is because, as it has been stated, there can be no boundary dispute between federal units and the federal because it is the aggregate boundaries of the federating units that define the boundary of the federation”.

I raised this issue once before. I was ignored and we lost Baksssi.

Recently, though quite belatedly, we wanted to claim it back. Bakassi as an island sits beyond the low water mark of Cross River State, since we now want to say that there is something called Nigeria’s territorial waters that belong commonly to all Nigeria, we must ask what would have happened if we got back Bakassi – would it have belong to Cross River State or commonly to all of Nigeria? How would Bakassi belong Cross River State and yet the intervening oil wells between the state’s low water mark and the Island would belong commonly to all of Nigeria? How sad that in this country virtue cannot live out of the teeth of emulation!

Any governor who wants to say that he cannot develop his state because of non dichotomized payment of thirteen percent derivation to the oil producing states is merely confessing that he is unfit to be governor. In those evil days of Obasanjo’s dichotomy, I was given a mere Six Hundred Million Naira every month with which to run and develop Akwa Ibom State which was classified non oil producing. This was considered the wicked and tyrannical manipulation of the constitution and it went on for more than a year until the National Assembly passed the law that corrected it. Twenty governors – the nineteen northern governors and one other from the west – challenged that law at the Supreme Court and lost. What more; why not let sleeping dogs lie!

Despite that, I was able to build an airport with a maintenance hanger and the best runway in the country; I built an Independent Power Plant (IPP) of 191 megawatt capacity; I built the Le-Meridian Hotel with a marina and a golf course that today is the tourists’ delight and the place of choice for conferences, retreats and business meetings; I built housing estates, hospitals, schools; I built roads; I gave the people pipe born water and rural electrification; I

started a university of Technology and an information and Communication Technology (ICT) Park with a major incubation centre; I initiated the design for a deep sea port at Ibaka apart from establishing new, and rehabilitating a number of moribund industries. In the process I took Akwa Ibom State into Nigeria, and above all I made Akwa Ibom State into peace haven in the turbulent Niger Delta.

I can think of a number of things that are responsible for today’s poverty and lack of development but the payment of thirteen percent derivation without onshore-offshore dichotomy is not one them.

One obvious reason is the extravagance and squandermenia in government. At independence the entire north, for instance, was governed by only one parliamentary type government. Today it is government by nineteen president style governments any one of which is phenomenally more expensive than the one that used to govern the entire region. A Governor can have as many as one thousand aids in addition to a motley crowd of commissioners and special advisers.

The story is no different at the federal level where a multiplicity of commissions, parastatals, committees and more committees are competing with one another for the work of the ministries. If we spend such on administration how can we expect anything to be left for development particularly, as on top of this, every aspect of government is today being run on television and the pages of newspapers. At an enormous cost, government now at every level, is run by advertising and not by performance.

If there is a need to look at derivation at all at this stage, it would be to see how the percentage can be increased for a very good reason. We have been told that the oil will last for only thirty more years. It has also been established that if we can stop further pollution, we will need thirty years from now to clean up the pollution that has already occurred in Niger Delta. I am advocating an increase in derivation to be handed over to the governors some of whom, quite sadly, has not demonstrated the capability and integrity to properly utilize these funds. What I am advocating is an immediate need to garner funds for the clean up of the Niger Delta otherwise, thirty years from now we will have no land to farm on and no water for fishing and no oil. The cry now should be for an increase in the derivation percentage rather than the awakening of the foreboding ghost of onshore-offshore dichotomy at a time when they so many more worrisome issues to engage our attention.

•Attah is former Governor Akwa Ibom State.

2012: Deadliest year for journalists

local potentates with unlimited powers and dangerous conflicts in the tribal areas place often deadly stumbling blocks in journalists’ paths.

Mexico: Six journalists were killed as Mexico’s drug-fuelled violence continued. It has grown exponentially during the federal offensive against the drug cartels of the past six years.

Journalists who dare to cover a range of subjects - drug trafficking, corruption, organised crime’s infiltration of local and federal government and human rights violations by government officials - are targeted.

Brazil: Five journalists were killed.

Drug traffickers operating across the Paraguayan border seem to have had a direct hand in the deaths of two of the five journalists murdered in connection with their work in Brazil in 2012. Both had covered drug cases.

Two of the other victims were blogging journalists, who often find that the least criticism of local officials can expose them to danger.

Source: guardian.co.uk

By Obong Victor B. Attah

from mineral revenue shall be shared among the mineral producing states based on the amount of mineral produced from each state and in the application of this provision, the Dichotomy of Onshore-Offshore oil producing and mineral oil and nonmineral oil revenue is hereby abolished” The two dichotomies: onshore and offshore production; oil and non oil resources were abrogated by this decree. There were, or possibly still are, those who wanted to claim that this degree was never signed or gazette and therefore should not apply. That is the extent of our mischief making and divisiveness.

There is no denying the fact that all these shenanigans gave rise to the militancy in the Niger Delta. It cannot also be easily forgotten that the issue of a derivation formula was one of the sticky points to be resolved at the constitutional conference called by the late Head of State, General Sanni Abacha in 1994-1995. At that conference, the Committee on Revenue Allocation put forward a resolution which was keenly debated, amended, and subsequently unanimously affirmed by the entire assembly.

This resolution provided a formula for the administration of the derivation principle and contained three very significant embodiments.

The first is that allocation to derivation shall stand on a MINIMUM of 13%. The second is that the dichotomy between onshore and offshore exploration shall not be taken into account for the purpose of revenue allocation. The third is that the boundaries of littoral states were clearly defined as extending to Nigeria‘s exclusive economic zone which at the time stood at two hundred nautical miles.

The 1999 constitution which we operate today has its roots in the findings of that conference. On the issue of public revenue, the constitution has this to say: “The President upon the receipt of advice from The Revenue Mobilization and Fiscal Commission, shall table before the National Assembly proposals for revenue allocation from the Federation Account and in determining the formula, the National Assembly shall take into account the allocation principles especially those of population, equality of states, internal revenue generation, land mass, terrain as well as population density; provided that the principles of derivation shall be constantly reflected in any approved formula as being not less than 31% of the revenue accruing to the Federation Account directly from any natural resources”.

We all know that revenue from oil was the issue as the derived revenues from our palm oil and coal

western hemisphere registered a fall in the number of journalists killed.

This is the worst set of figures since RSF began producing an annual round-up in 1995. The number of journalists murdered or killed was 67 in 2011, 58 in 2010 and 75 in 2009. The previous record was in 2007, when 87 were killed.

The 88 journalists killed in 2012 lost their lives while covering wars or bombings, or were murdered by groups linked to organised crime (including drug trafficking), by Islamist militias or on the orders of corrupt officials.

The killing of journalists continues to be one of the biggest threats to freedom of expression. Here are the five deadliest countries for journalists: Syria: At least 17 journalists, 44 citizen journalists and four media assistants killed in 2012 during the conflict between Bashar Al-Assad’s govern-

from the east, cocoa from the west and groundnut pyramids from the north had long since paled into insignificance. Tin from the plateau had since been exhausted and we had never been serious about our other solid minerals that abound in the north or the tar sands in the west. I cannot therefore agree with those who now feel that, in considering this formula, a distinction should be drawn between naturally occurring resources such as oil and those produced through human labour such as groundnuts or cocoa. Perhaps we need to be reminded that when derivation stood at 50% in the sixties, it included revenue from oil. So what has changed other the price of crude oil? Is this recent outcry therefore just another exhibition of our limitless capacity for capriciousness?

Today Obasanjo is being condemned for adopting a political solution rather than abiding by the constitution where the payment of derivation is concerned. Those people who are doing so forget that when Obasanjo took office in 1999, in total and flagrant disregard for the constitution, he was allocating only one percent of our public revenue for derivation. His one percent payment, we should note, included the entire revenue from oil – both on and offshore. This went on for more than a year. When finally he was pressured into allocating the thirteen percent that the constitution stipulates, he in a manner considered quite malicious reintroduced the diabolical dichotomy of off and on shore that had long since been laid to rest and which is not in our constitution.

In defining the Federal Republic Nigeria, the constitution clearly states that there shall be thirty six states which are clearly named and a Federal Capital Territory. No more, no less. What this means is that any territory, be it land or body of water which does not belong to one or the other of these states or the FCT cannot be considered as part of Nigeria. It is for the simple reason that the bodies of water adjoining the littoral states, including Lake Chad, belong in the first instance to those adjoining states, that they can be considered as Nigerian territory. This was one of the cardinal points of agreement at the constitutional conference of 1994 – 95.

It should also be remembered that that dichotomy was not always there. It was introduced as an emergency war time measure that supposed to have a short terminal date. Unfortunately it dragged on till Babangida’s decree 106 of 1992. Its total and final abrogation came at the constitutional conference of 1994 – 95. It is most fallacious therefore to try to “blame” the National Assembly did, quite commendably, was to stand against the decision of a president whose unilateral action

ment and various rebel groups.

Syria has hit news providers hard because they are the unwanted witnesses of atrocities being committed by the regime and armed opposition groups.

Due to the polarisation of information sources, news manipulation, propaganda, technical constraints and the extreme violence to which journalists and citizen journalists are exposed, anyone trying to gather or disseminate news and information in Syria needs a real sense of vocation.

Somalia: Twice as many journalists were killed in Somalia in 2012 as in 2009, until now the deadliest year for media personnel. The second half of September was particularly bloody with seven journalists killed, two of them in the space of 24 hours.

Most are the victims of targeted murders or bombings. Those respon-

sible for this violence are either armed militias, such as Al-Shabaab, or local government officials who want to silence news outlets.

The lack of a stable government in this failed state for the past 20 years, endemic violence and impunity all contribute to the grim death toll.

Pakistan: Ten journalists and a media assistant were killed, mostly because of endemic violence in Balochistan and Taliban reprisals Pakistan was the world’s deadliest country for the media from 2009 to 2011, and Balochistan continues to be one of the world’s most dangerous regions. With its tribal areas, its border with Afghanistan, tension with India and chaotic political history, Pakistan is one of the world’s most complicated countries to cover.

Terrorist threats, police violence,

19

POLITICS THE NATION ON SUNDAY DECEMBER 23, 2012

Osun 2014: Gubernatorial race gathers steam F

OR months before now, some politicians, especially within the ranks of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Labour Party (LP), have stepped up subtle but very intense political activities aimed at positioning them as frontline contenders for the plum position of the executive governor of Osun State.

In fact, so intense is the battle of wits among aspirants on the platform of the PDP that the party is already feeling the heat. This is symbolised by the current factionalisation of the party with aspirants and godfathers alike controlling splinter groups within the party.

The constant criticism of the policies and programmes of the Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola-led Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) government in the state by leaders and members of the PDP has been interpreted by political observers as a strong signal of the readiness of the opposition to engage the ruling party in a tough political battle come 2014 governorship election in the state.

For the Labour Party, its leadership suddenly arose from its slumber to announce its readiness to wrestle the control of the state from the ACN. Through various press statements and public sensitisation programmes, the party has been painting the political horizon of the state with its imprints as part of the build up to the 2014 gubernatorial tussle.

From the ranks of the LP, a couple of aspirants have emerged, professing their determination and eligibility to unseat Aregbesola.

Of course, political observers see among these, both contenders and commedians. But one thing that leaves nobody in doubt is the fact that the party is now more active in the state than it has been in nearly eight years.

The political frenzy in the state did not start today. It is safe to say the jostle for Aregbesola’s job started immediately after the 2011 general election in the state.

Perhaps following the superlative performance of the ruling AC N in that election, the opposition realised the party is not in a hurry to lose its control of the politics of the state.

However, observers of the politicis of the state are of the opinion that the race to occupy the Okefia Government House, Osogbo, has gathered more momentum following last week’s declaration by Governor Aregbesola to contest for a second term in 2014, This, according to sources, is because political gladiators, who before now were contented with subtly selling their candidates through programmes and events,

Following the recent declaration by Osun State governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, of his intention to vie for re-election in 2014, Dare Odufowokan reports that opposition political parties have further tightened their belts in preparation for a grand battle.

•Aregbesola

are now daily making open consultations and holding public meetings.

And with the fresh momentum came the realisation that the election would be stiff as it would be a contest involving Aregbesola of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) and the candidate of the main opposition party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Labour Party (LP), amongst others.

Going by the calendar of the Independence National Electoral Commission (INEC), gubernatorial election would hold in Osun State by the second quarter of 2014 and the new governor is expected to be sworn in on November 16, 2014 Aregbesola, while hinting on his bid to govern the state for a second term after the expiration of his first term in 2014, said his aspiration is guaranteed by the support his government currently enjoys from the people of the state.

Speaking at a programme to commemorate his Second year in office, tagged, ‘Ogbeni Till Day Break’ in Osogbo, the state capital, Aregbesola noted that the developmental programmes of his administration in the last two years would serve as campaign elements for his second term ambition.

•Omisore

“I am too sure of my second term in office. My ambition to rule the state for a second term was not because I have failed, but to continue with my developmental agenda and ensure that Osun is rated as the best in the black race.

“The people of the state will give me a second term because they have seen what my government is doing in the state,” he said.

But political observers are of the opinion that the challenge of the opposition should not be ignored by the ruling party. Sources within the state said there are indications that the PDP may be banking on federal might to wage the 2014 political war in the state.

“Right from the time President Goodluck Jonathan composed his cabinet, it should have been clear to discerning minds that the PDP was preparing for a titanic battle with ACN in the South-West.

“Just take a good look at the allocation of the posts of Minister of Police Affairs and Minister of State Defence, to the South-West and you will come to understand my position.

“Recently, they added the post of National Secretary to it. And they gave it to Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola. Both Oyinlola and the Minister of State (Defence), Chief

•Fani-Kayode

(Mrs) Olusola Obada, are from Osun State,” Comrade Boladale Odanye of the Centre for the Advancement of Democratic Ideals (CADI) said.

PDP strategists believe that a victory for the party in Osun in 2014 will deal a deadly blow to the ACN, given that the state is also home to ACN National Chairman, Chief Adebisi Akande, who is also a former governor of the state.

Perhaps this explains why so many PDP chieftains are currently oiling their campaign machineries ahead of the party primaries.

Among the names being touted for the top position are Senator Iyiola Omisore, Alhaji Fatai Akinbade, Mr. Tunde Odanye, Chief Femi Fani-kayode, Prof. Wale Oladipo, Diran Odeyemi, Fatai Sarumi, a tycoon and an accountant, Lati Bakare.

But to some pundits, it will not be an easy task for the opposition to unseat the ACN as the governor currently enjoys wide following among the people of the state.

“It is obviously a tall dream for the PDP or any other party at that to think of defeating Aregbesola in 2014. The policies of his administration have endeared him to the people of the state. Take for instance the recruitment of 20,000

youths into the OYES programme.

“This has invariably reduced the rate of unemployment in the state and as well reduced crime rate, because youths who would have indulged in social vices, now have a job that keeps them busy.

“Even the ordinary walk-tolive programme embarked upon once in a month has made him popular among members of the public, because they see him as a governor who is accessible, as some do utilise that avenue to lodge their complaints whenever he trekked past their community.

“His decision to embark on some road projects of recent, is also seen as a step in the right direction because most of the major roads in the state are in deplorable condition and the situation of the roads when it rains is appalling. Also, his desire to beautify six major towns in the state is equally commendable. All these and more will work for him,” Odanye said of the plan by the opposition to oust ACN. The LP, it was gathered, is enjoying the support of the Ondo State Governor, Olusegun Mimiko. The party has not Continued on Page 20

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THE NATION ON SUNDAY DECEMBER 23, 2012

Politics

Rather than abate, the crisis rocking the Ogun State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is seemingly proving intractable, reports Remi Adelowo

T

HERE appears to be no letup in the war of attrition between opposing factions currently battling for the soul of the Ogun State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Some days ago, the state headquarters of the party was turned into a battlefield when members of the faction, led by Lagos-based businessman, Alhaji Buruji Kashamu, engaged in a deadly physical confrontation with members of the group allegedly loyal to former President Olusegun Obasanjo.

The cause of the crisis, according to eyewitnesses, was an attempt by the factions to take control of the party office, with each claiming to be the authentic group recognised by law and by the national headquarters of the party in Abuja.

Days before the clash took place, the National Chairman of the party, Alhaji Bamanga Tukur, had visited Obasanjo at his Abeokuta hilltop residence, according to sources, to achieve two things: first, to appeal to the former president to sheath sword in his open disagreement with President Goodluck Jonathan, and second, to unite the warring factions of the party in Ogun State.

But rather than unite the factions, Tukur’s visit, The Nation has gathered, has further polarised the party, in what is seen as a dress rehearsal of the crisis that may erupt in the party ahead the 2015 general elections.

Tukur, according to some party members, had, at the end of his visit, met with only the faction of the party loyal to Obasanjo, a move insiders have interpreted as his subtle recognition of the Obasanjo faction.

In the last one year, the Adebayo Dayo-led executive council of the party, allegedly bankrolled

by Kashamu, has been laying claim to being the lawfully recognised faction of the party, but which the Senator Dipo Odujinrin-led exco, supported by Obasanjo, has continuously rubbished.

In the last couple of days, sources disclosed that fear has gripped the Kashamu faction over feelers it got that Tukur had allegedly reached a secret understand-

•Kashamu

•Obasanjo

•Tukur

Ogun PDP crisis Tukur, OBJ in alliance against Kashamu ing with Obasanjo to use his office to influence the recognition of the Odunjinrin-led executive council by the national headquarters of the party. “The invasion of the party headquarters in Abeokuta by members of the party loyal to Kashamu to take control of the place was to preempt the Obasanjo group in moving in,” said another source.

However, that preemptive action may have failed. The Nation gathered that days after the clash between the factions, which was quelled by security agents, the Odunjinrin-led group has been allowed to take control of the party office allegedly with the support of security operatives allegedly acting ‘on orders from above.’

Due to this development, the Kashamu faction is said to be seething with rage. A member of the faction, who preferred to remain anonymous, said, “We will not allow Obasanjo to continue to ride roughshod over us. We remain

the authentic group of the party.

The Dayo-led council was elected at a congress supervised by national officers of the party and witnessed by INEC officials. In addition, the Federal High Court in Lagos has also affirmed its authenticity. Tukur is not helping matters by aligning with Obasanjo because we are in the majority.”

While the Kashamu faction has reportedly returned to the drawing board to outwit the Obasanjo faction, sources disclosed that the group’s future moves are constrained by certain factors, few of which include its inability to concretise its reconciliation with another group led by the former governor of the state, Gbenga Daniel and the dilemma of the national headquarters of the party on how to handle Obasanjo. A source quipped, “The officials in Abuja know quite well that the Kashamu group controls the grassroots but nobody wants to offend OBJ.”

The situation in the Ogun PDP, according to findings, is further worsened by alleged subterranean involvement of some major stakeholders of the party with other political parties in the state.

Investigations revealed that many PDP members are allegedly working on a Plan B just in case their 2015 political aspiration is threatened in their party. In this regard, the Labour Party is said to be the biggest beneficiary of the discontent in PDP. The Nation gathered Daniel is working on two options to protect his future political relevance in the state. While he has not formally dissolved the Peoples Party of Nigeria (PPN), which he allegedly floated in the rundown to the 2011 general elections last year after he lost out in the power play in the PDP, he is also allegedly bankrolling the Labour Party, on which platform his loyalists may contest the 2015 elections.

The former governor’s group, sources alleged, is putting forward a former Secretary to Ogun State Government, Sarafadeen Ishola, during Daniel’s first term, as its governorship candidate on the platform of the Labour Party in the 2015 election. The choice of Ishola, who is also a former Minister of Solid Minerals Development under the late Umaru Yar’Adua presidency, was predicated on a strategy to divide the Ogun Central votes where the incumbent governor, Ibikunle Amosun, and Ishola hail from and fight for votes in the two other senatorial zonesOgun East and Ogun West.

With new political permutations constantly springing as the race for the 2015 race gets under way next year, it remains to be seen how the PDP will put its house in order in its quest to fight the Action Congress of Nigeriacontrolled government led by Senator Ibikunle Amosun.

Osun 2014: Gubernatorial race gathers steam •Continued from Page 19 stopped accusing Aregbesola of committing a huge amount of money into the last Ondo governorship election in spite of the fact that the governor denied the allegation.

“I did not use Osun State resources to fight Ondo governorship election. If I had used Osun resources to fight Ondo election, where then did I get the resources to pay workers salaries in my state and still be able to execute

those projects,” he asked?

The LP and its backers, however, see 2014 as the right time to pay Aregbesola back with his own coins. Consequently, it is believed that Mimiko and the national leadership of his party have resolved to invest heavily into the gubernatorial election with a view to dislodging ACN from Osun as the first step in their quest to take over the whole South-West by 2015.

The state chairman of the party, Chief Afilaka, said the party would pose serious chal-

lenge to Aregbesola and the ACN in the next gubernatorial election, saying the party is now strong in the state and was ready to use all legal means to unsure that it unseats Aregbesola.

The LP is now seen as a serious threat in the state as the party now has functional secretariat and campaign vehicles unlike in the past. So strong is the LP scare that it is being insinuated that Senator Iyiola Omisore may even dump the PDP to contest on the platform of the party.

But to Aregbesola, there is

nothing to fear as both the PDP and the Labour Party (LP) will not be able to unseat him. According to the Osun State helmsman, the combination of both parties are not enough to give him challenge in the 2014 gubernatorial election.

“What happened in Ondo State gave some people the reason to brag. We will allow them to brag. It is normal, but their bragging season is almost over.

You cannot keep on bragging over and over because after bragging what comes next is bashing.

“The transformation going on in all parts of the state are enough to tell any discerning mind that the ACN-led government cannot be compared with the PDP-led government, which is the government of corruption.

“We have given the state a face-lift and history will judge us well. We have done the best for this state within the last two years and we shall not hesitate to do more. Only those who have no sight to see what we are doing will complain about our visionary government,” Aregbesola said.

THE NATION ON SUNDAY DECEMBER 23, 2012

E

X-MILITANT and leader of Niger Delta Volunteer Force (NDVF), Alhaji Mojadeed Asari Dokubo, caused a stir last week when he slammed President Goodluck Jonathan, accusing him of derailing from the objective for which he was voted in as president.

Dokubo also alleged that Jonathan “is surrounded by greedy people,” who, according to him, had conspired to alienate him from the very people that made his election possible, including his core supporters from SouthSouth and South-East geo-political zones.

As he put it, “We have continued as Ijaw people and the entire Niger Delta and South-South to support President (Goodluck) Jonathan, but the time has come when silence cannot be golden. We must speak out on issues that are very critical for the survival of our people, the survival of the people of the South-South and the South-East, which is the political base of Jonathan.”

Political observers, who have reacted to Dokubo’s latest outburst, expressed surprise over his sudden turnaround, recalling that few months earlier, the ex- militant leader was one of the most outspoken defenders of President Goodluck Jonathan.

Just last March, for example, Dokubo’s comments sparked off controversy when he declared that Jonathan would remain president for eight years from 2011. It is, therefore, currious to observers why he made a complete U-turn last Friday, when he said rather unsparingly that “due to a woeful performance, the chance of the president being re-elected is fast slipping through his fingers,” adding that “It is alarming because the SouthSouth must have its uninterrupted eight years tenure which is constitutional, but with how things are going under Jonathan’s watch, we are afraid that we may not be able to have our eight years tenure, because there will be no magic about it if it is going to be one man one vote.”

Why the sudden change: Until now, most informed political watchers in Nigeria have easily explained away Asari Dokubo’s sweeping defence of Jonathan over the years.

As one of the biggest beneficiaries of the Federal Government’s amnesty programme, Dokubo has risen from being a notorious Niger Delta militant leader to a big power broker in Aso Rock and a wealthy federal government contractor.

The extent of the fortunes he had

Politics

What’s Dokubo’s new game plan?

Informed Nigerians are suspicious of Alhaji Mojadeen Asari Dokubo’s recent criticisms of President Goodluck Jonathan’s government, reports Sam Egburonu

•Dokubo amassed under Jonathan’s government was made concrete through a Wall Street Journal report, which alleged that he got a contract from the government to guard pipelines in Niger Delta and that the said contract alone pays him about N1.42 billion annually.

Given such patronage, only the uninformed bated an eyelid whenever he came out strong, issuing reckless verbal fire in the direction of anyone that dared to question any of Jonathan’s policies.

But his change of attitude towards the president first became noticeable in August this year, when, after a meeting with Niger Delta youths in Abuja, he reportedly told reporters that Jonathan’s government has no option than to convoke a Sovereign National Conference. “Whether he likes it or not, Goodluck Jonathan must convoke an SNC. There is a need for a national discourse and dialogue. It is only an SNC that will solve the problem. The solu-

Political

ripples Has Tambuwal been endorsed for Sokoto governorship?

I

N the last few weeks, the buzz has been all over town that the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, is the anointed candidate of the powers-that-be to occupy the governorship seat in Sokoto State.

Discerning watchers of politics at the seat of caliphate revealed that the close relationship between the state governor, Aliyu Wammako, and Tambuwal was a clear indication that the Speaker is being positioned for the governorship in 2015.

But would the Speaker have an easy ride in the PDP governorship race? “Rather dicey,” is the dominant response of most of our sources, as other candidates, including the deputy governor of the state, Muktar Shagari, are also alleged to be interested in contesting for the coveted seat.

tion to the Boko Haram crisis is to dissolve the government and convoke an SNC,” to the consternation of his patrons at the seat of power in Abuja.

He did not stop there as he declared last week that Jonathan has failed Nigerians and cannot hope to continue in government beyond 2015.

Nigerians, who spoke to The Nation during the week are, therefore asking what must have informed the sudden change of opinion by a man, who has been courting controversy after controversy on behalf of Jonathan since he started enjoying multi-billion naira patronage from a government he once fought against?

While some claimed that Dokubo’s eyes may have been opened after all, many said he may be playing a game.

Dr Boniface Effiong, for example, said Dokubo is seeking undue attention.

“I suspect he may have been denied a Continued on Page 26

PDP governors may battle Tukur over Nyako

T

HERE are indica tions that most Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governors have resolved to back Governor Murtala Nyako in the prolonged political war between him and Alhaji Bamanga Tukur, their national chairman.

Ripples learnt that after series of pleadings and peace meetings, aimed at reconciling these two political leaders from Adamawa State, the PDP governors have resolved to help Nyako fight Tukur, if it comes to that. It would be recalled that nearly all the governors elected on the platform of the PDP recently stormed its national secretariat in Abuja, urging the party to thread softly with its desire to discipline Nyako.

The governors, led by the chairman of Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF), Rotimi Amaechi of Rivers State, met with the National Working Committee (NWC), expressing dissatisfaction over alleged victimisation of their brother governor by Tukur. Insiders said Tukur’s associates are worried over the development.

21

Political Politics turf

with Bolade Omonijo boladeomonijo@yahoo.com

Thoughts on Nigerian constitution (1)

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NE Nigerian political legend who I admire for a number of reasons is Chief Obafemi Awolowo. He is relevant today, perhaps more than he was when alive. And, aside his devotion to the cause of the people, courage and doggedness, his thoughts, well laid out in books, have stood him out.

When he started out in the 1940s, little known even in Ibadan , his base, he wrote the Path to Nigerian Freedom. He had just left Britain where he had sojourned for the so-called Golden Fleece when he published the book.

Then, he plunged into the murky waters of politics. He god soaked and soiled in the process. But, being the rugged man that he was, he soldiered on. To leave his footprints on the sands of time, documenting his early life and early political involvement, Awo, like Winston Churchill and other great men of his time, wrote and published AWO: The Autobiography of Chief Obafemi Awolowo. It was vintage Awo, but not yet the great statesman that we later saw him metamorphose into.

In my view, the first great book by the Oke-Ado, Ibadan political giant was Thoughts on Nigerian Constitution. It showed Awo as a philosopher, a deep thinker and concerned Nigerian. It also portrayed him as one who had a blueprint for a better and greater Nigeria . Unlike the Path, it was published just after independence and was a critique of the process that led to coupling together the first constitution. He also laid out his thoughts on the road to a great future where Nigeria would turn out as the true giant of Africa .

Two other books published in the 1960s were to provide further insights into Awo’s thoughts, views and impressions of the country of his dream. The Peoples Republic was next in line, followed by Strategy and Tactics of the Peoples Republic.

I have said these to introduce my readers to the importance that I attach to the constitution as grundnorm for relations, institutions and, most importantly, laying out the society’s political estate.

It is in this contest that I believe that a closer attention should be paid to the ongoing attempt to amend the rigid constitution foisted on us by the military in 1999. The constitution may not be all that is wrong with our political enterprise, but it shares so much of the blame. Much of the flareups that we experience today, stem from the ambiguities and deliberate landmines planted in the supreme law of the land.

If there is anything that I look forward to in the coming year, it is the production of a revamped constitution.

I look forward to pruning the powers of the government at the centre. I am convinced that traveling this road, with the country structured as it is, can only lead to further underdevelopment of Nigeria . It will make the dream of becoming the giant of Africa a mirage. How can the country join the list of 20 greatest economies when the leaders continue to loot?

The centre is too far from the component units and violates the core principle of federalism as laid down by K. C. Wheare that none of the governments or tiers of government in a federation should be far more powerful than the other. The central government in Nigeria is far more powerful than the all the federating units combined. The resources are snapped by the ineffectual federal government and the agencies for law enforcement are solely controlled by the commander-inchief. This much change as we hope and plan to move forward.

It is also my strong belief that something much more fundamental must be done about the electoral architecture of the country. We really need to put on our thinking caps and decide to sanitise the electoral system. This is beyond just INEC. The commission is a key stakeholder, but there are many more that should be tidied up if we are to begin to have credible elections. First, we are yet to have a credible electoral register. The Jega commission has tried, but we are not yet there. If we are able to have a fully computerized, foolproof register and get those who cheated in the last elections punished, we would have taken many steps forward.

I remain convinced, too, that the influence of politicians should be warded off the system. What business has the President in a country like Nigeria in appointing a Chief National Electoral Commissioner, National and Resident Commissioners? How could the independence of all the men be guaranteed? Till date, our dear President is yet to let us into what informed his renewal of the tenures of some of the former national and resident commissioners and the dropping of others. Justice, we are told, should not just be done but must be seen by all to have been done.

I salute the courage of the Jega team in giving effect to section 78 of the Electoral Act; he has to take a step further in ensuring that the internal processes in the political parties conform to the dictates of the constitution.

Given the dominance of the centrifugal forces, shouldn’t Nigerians take another look at the structure of the constitution that has been a source of worry and insecurity? Can we sustain the existing 36-state structure? Can the powers of the federal government actually be whittled down for as long as we have 36 small states dotting the landscape?

These are my thoughts. I hope to further examine some of the points next week.

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THE NATION ON SUNDAY DECEMBER 23, 2012

Politics

I am restructuring APGA -Nwabu-Alor The race to succeed Governor Peter Obi has started . Chief Sylva Nwobu-Alor, Obi’s uncle, is the National Coordinator, All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) Stakeholders Forum, a group agitating reestructuring of APGA at all levels. That agitation has brought sharp divisions within APGA, threatening its chances of winning Anambra State in 2014 governorship elections. Nwobu-Alor, who is also the Camapign Coordinator of Governor Peter Obi, in this interview with Odogwu Emeka Odogwu, discussed the envisaged re-structuring of the party and it’s chances in 2014.

Excerpts:

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2014 Governorship election is fast approaching in the state, what do you think will happen in Anambra State in the three Senatorial zones?

There will be election of the governor of Anambra State, who will take over from the incumbent governor, Mr Peter Obi. What chances are there for the people of Anambra North, based on Mr. Obi’s promise, to them come 2014?

They have chances if they can select credible candidate. A candidate that will be transparent like Obi. A candidate who is credible and is committed to the aspirations of the people of Anambra State. Such a candidate of course must be committed to what Obi has been doing, not a person that will come and destroy everything. Such a candidate has chances of winning and taking over from Governor Peter Obi. So, there is no agreement that somebody from Anambra North will be the Governor in 2014?

For purposes of equity and good conscience, the people that have not witnessed anything like governoship should be given an opportunity to nominate somebody of their choice. So, as you know, it depends on the masses. It depends on the acceptability of the individuals too. They might be happy to have a governor for the first time but as I said, depending on the nature of the person and the reaction of the people. If the people see him as a good candidate, they will vote him, otherwise, they may not.

In other words, you are saying

that the chances of Anambra North is slim.

It’s not slim. What I am saying is if the person is acceptable to the people, yes. But if he lacks any quality, then, he may not win and that applies to everybody who is contesting. If you are not a marketable material, you will not win any election.

But has APGA as a party agreed that 2014 is for candidates from Anambra North and no other zone should come and contest that?

No, supposing they fail to present anybody, must they still be talking of the position. I don’t think it’s the issue. The issue is that they have been given opportunity to nominate somebody and the party and the governor will support whoever they nominate and ensure that he wins.

But, you cannot say that it must be, because it all depends on them. Supposing they did not nominate anybody.

Is there going to be transparent primaries to nominate candidates?

If we have two or more candidates from Anambra North, then we subject them to primaries.

Since APGA is talking of zoning to Anambra North, do you think that other political parties are saying the same thing?

No, they are not bound to do so. We are talking about APGA. APGA has zoned it to the place and you should know that any election from now on in Anambra must be won by APGA. So, other parties may nominate but they don’t have chances in Anambra State.

Why do you think so?

I think so because we are re-

structuring the party and before we get to the middle of next year, the party will be so strong that it will amount to foolhardiness for anybody to come in to context for governorship and I am very sure of that.

Is it now that the party is in disarray?

It is not in disarray but it is not organised for effectiveness. It hasn’t got the cohesion required by the party to hold election which we are now putting into it. I am very sure that by the middle of next year, the party will be so strong that no other party can win anythig here.

Who is the National Chairman of APGA? As far as I am concerened, Massala is the National Chairman of APGA because Victor Umeh has been removed.

But some individuals from Massala”s camp are going back to Victor Umeh to apologise for betraying him?

It’s not true. Adams was sacked from the party three or four years ago. He is not a member of the party not to talk of being a member of National Executive Council. Ukwa was also sacked from the party two and half years ago, he is not a member not to talk of being a member of the National Working Committee. Victor is just getting them for propaganda purposes.

It is widely believed that you are the one causing problem in APGA? No, I am restructuring APGA, creating enabling environment for people to come in, it is Umeh and his cohorts that are causing the problem which we have. It is Umeh

that made it impossible for us to win elections in Abia, Ebonyi, Enugu, Anambra, Imo states and other places. So, who is causing the problem. I am creating an environment that will make it possible for the party to win, Umeh has created an environment that made it impossible for the party to win.

But now in Anambra, there are factions in APGA. Some call themselves National Stakeholders Forum which you are the National Coordinator others call themselves mainstream APGA party and the two factions always clash in some functions?

You can investigate this, those people you see in different camps are the officers of the party. They are scared that if the restructuring continues, they may lose their positions because most of them are passive. So, they are afraid of losing their positions and that is why they are kicking. Nobody outside the office is against restructuring.

Is your camp ready to embrace the peace dialogue being initiated

by CAN? I don’t think that is continuing, CAN has seen that it is purely a political matter and they want to go back to their religious business.

But even if it goes, we are not trying to punish anybody. This matter is Victor Umeh versus his employers. Employers of a political office holders are the stakeholders of the party. So, the chairman and his men are working for the stakeholders. If the stakeholders say you are not doing well, you should take an honourable exit.

But, he said he is not going to do that, that, it will be under his dead

body.

But all of you elected them at Women Development Centre Awka to serve for the next four years?

It is not true, there was no election. You better study the constitution. There was a general meeting of the national officers of the party where they approved the nomination of Governor Peter Obi as the candidate of APGA. Actually, the party did not nominate him, he was nominated by the joint signatory of Ojukwu and the Secretary of Chekwas faction of APGA. The constitution provides how to conduct convections. If you wish to contest when your power expires, you are expected to resign at least two monthes before the date of the election if you wish to recontest.

If Chief Victor Umeh is ready for dialogue, will your camp allow him to complete his tenure?

Well that simply means allowing the party to die because as it is now, unless it is restructured, we cannot win any election and that is my own. He was saying that his tenure will end by 2015 but now he has changed his gears and he is now talking about 2014 but whichever applies, we will not win anything. So, we cannot allow him to stay and destroy the party. I am not contesting anything and I don’t need employment by any political party, including APGA. So, I am not doing anything for myself.

Is it not a contradiction, you said you didn’t need a job or employment from any political party, including APGA, but you are being employed already as the National Coordinator of Peter Obi Campaign Organisation and National Coordinator, APGA Stakeholders Forum?

I am not employed by any political party. I will not contest for anything in APGA and they cannot give me a job. I am not fighting for Anambra State Government. I am fighting for APGA as a political party.

You must be strong, at 80 and above you are still waxing strong?

Well, you people gave the age. I was born in 1937 and Victor gave my age at 88. I am praying to God to live up to that and now you are talking of 80 and above. I don’t know where you saw my birth certificate. So you people assume too much and that is not correct for journalists. Journalists should be investigative in everything they do or say because people take you serious. So, if you pass on wrong information, people will buy it and parade with your wrong information. So, I am 75 – years if you need the correct age.

There are some advertorials in a Newspapers where stakeholders were asking why Peter Obi did not hand over to the people of Anambra North when he finished his first tenure?

I think I have said it before. It is a question of equity and good conscience. He has been there for two tenure as provided by the constitution.

He was doing very well and we wanted him to complete his two tenures. It is entirely wonderful achievement and we are very happy for that. It would have been a disaster if he had left without completing the second tenure. We had achieved much in the first tenure and very much in the second one and we are looking forward for achieving more and we cannot go beyond that if the provision is there for him to continue. We will reelect him again but now that he cannot go further, we need somebody who has the capability, who have the commitment and the quality that will possibly surpass that of Mr. Peter Obi.

THE NATION ON SUNDAY DECEMBER 23, 2012

Politics

I have right to contest Akwa Ibom governorship Larry Esin is not new to the Akwa Ibom governorship contest. He contested in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) primary in 2006 and in 2011, he was the governorship candidate under the platform of Congress for Progressive Change (CPC). An engineer by profession and Harvard trained economist, Esin in this interview with correspondent Kazeem Ibrahym argues that the Federal Government is biting too much. Excerpts: T has been confirmed that government is not executing budgets, rather officials are busy deceiving the poor masses. Many infrastructure, including roads accommodated in the budgets are not executed, what, in your opinion, is the cause of all these?

I am not sure I would say there is a grand scheme to deceive the populace because it is not easy to deceive the populace. You have just mentioned that roads have not been built and all that; so you cannot deceive people for too long, they will always find out the truth.

I think what is happening in government today is that unfortunately we have either by default or intentionally brought people into government or positions they do not have the capacity to deliver.

Once you have a situation like that, that will be the kind of results we are getting today. But on the macro level, remember that we are still in a global recession and if our government doesn’t have the capacity to understand the implication of a global recession on the Nigerian economy itself, then we are in trouble.

You know it is a mono economy that we run in Nigeria; we rely just on oil revenue and the price of oil is not stable. We also have a budget issue, we don’t have a well planned budget so far.

Last year, I am not sure what percentage of the budget was implemented. We just came out of the fuel subsidy crisis. So, even this year, there is a gap in our budget.

We are running a deficit budget this year. Therefore, government needs to tighten its belt.

There has to be some fiscal discipline introduced, so that we are able to mop up excesses here and there to fund those fundamental sectors like education, health, security and infrastructure. In very simple terms, if you earn N100 for example and your responsibilities are above N200, you will find that

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there is a gap. So, what you now have to do is to look at those responsibilities and now pick the priorities, for example healthcare, so that your N100 can go towards making those sectors function.

Others will have to suffer. If you look at some sectors in the federal government budget, in my opinion, the government should not fund them. I see no reason why government should fund the railway. The Nigeria Railway Corporation (NRC) in the current budget has over N100 billion. Federal government should not give NRC money for its capital projects; rather it should only fund its recurrent expenditure.

Government should tell NRC to raise money for its capital projects. The NRC owns today the Eastern and Western railway corridor which is land that starts from Lagos all the way to Kano, and in the East, from Port Harcourt all the way to Maiduguri. They own those tracks and about one kilometre to both sides of that track belong to NRC. Now that is some huge real estate that belongs to one agency of government.

Why can’t that agency fence that real estate, go to a bank, mortgage the land, raise money and do what they have to do. There are so many strategies they can use to raise money, without relying on the federal government. I also believe federal government should trim its own expenses.

Don’t you think that budgets in Nigeria are violated at will because the Fiscal Responsibility Act and the Procurement Act are not followed?

The simple reason people don’t follow such laid down procedures is because there are no penalties and we are not implementing the law. The biggest problem we face in Nigeria today, in my opinion is the level of lawlessness in the country. From the way we drive on our streets, so it’s not only

•Esin in government but also outside of government.

There is no country in the world that has been able to de-

velop without a strong law enforcement agency. You have to be able to enforce it. So if you have the laws in the books that say that

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budgets have to be implemented to the latter and when it is not implemented people are prosecuted and penalties are applied to them, you will see that we will begin to curb the excesses.

Since 2006, you have contested for the governorship seat of Akwa Ibom but have not succeeded yet, may you assess the level of development in the state and comment on areas you think still requires the kind of change you wanted to introduce.

First of all I have to commend the governor for what he has done so far. At the onset, he said his focus was going to be on infrastructure and he has done exactly that.

He has focused his energy and the resources of the state on building infrastructure. Development is something that takes years, it doesn’t have to be four or even eight years. But I believe that at the end of his eight year tenure, he and the people of Akwa Ibom will be able to look back and agree that there has been major infrastructural development in the state.

The issue now becomes, where do we go from there? The next administration must also identify areas where they can focus on, and in trying to focus on a particular sector you must also have a capacity to understand the linkages between all the economic sectors in the state. The modern infrastructure built by the Governor makes it possible to access parts of the state hitherto not accessible and that helps in developing the health and educational sectors in different parts of the state.

So whoever comes in after him, will now have to take it from where he stopped and develop another sector of the economy which will help in the development of another sector of the economy. My thinking is that what needs to be done next is the development of human capacity in the state. That is where I think the focus should be now because with the development of human capacity, you will create jobs for the teeming youths in Akwa Ibom today. Unemployment is a major concern.

Also after you’ve built modern infrastructure and you don’t have indigenous capacity to sustain that major infrastructure you’ve built then you have created a major problem. This is because most of the human capacities that will come in to help sustain it will be from outside the state.

I will give you an example.

When I was in government in Cross River State; we did the Obudu cable car thing. While that was going on, we decided that when the cable car is built, the capacity to sustain it may either have to be imported from the contractors that built it in Europe or we have the opportunity now to build local capacity.

So we took over 20 of those local boys in Obudu and Ogoja who had degrees in Electrical Engineering but had no jobs. We sent them to Germany for training. Today, those boys are the ones running the Obudu cable car. The Germans have since left, we only had with them a long term contract for spares and maintenance but those boys are the ones managing and sustaining the cable cars today. So that needs to be done also in Akwa Ibom State with the available enormous resources.

A few years ago, I talked about this issue of resource control. I said that while we are earning so much revenue now, we should be thinking of the future because all it will take will be an Act of Parliament Continued on Page 26

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THE NATION ON SUNDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2012

THE SUNDAY INTERVIEW

Baggage that limits women in corporate Nigeria

has spanned well over 27 years. There were many points in my career when I actually thought of throwing in the towel and stepping aside but what kept me going was because I had mentors around me.

On reflection, I found it interesting that not a single woman mentored me on my professional journey. In my mind there was something wrong with that because I believe that women who have been able to get to the top of their careers have a unique story to tell which they should share with the younger generation.

This prompted the formation of WISCAR because as women, we have competing priorities.

Women are the nurturers, they are the ones who get married and bare the babies and sometimes the pressure from the home front can detract from wanting to pursue a career. Often times, they are forced to make a choice and step aside from corporate work because they cannot cope with all the stress.

Wiscar is a not-for-profit organisation that is focused on young, entry level to mid-career young female professionals who have made a commitment to pursue a career. We as an organisation are focused on providing strategic, structured mentoring.

Nigerian employers complain about the low quality of the staff they are forced to hire and a number of factors have been blamed. How can this issue be addressed?

It is a social economic issue. Our schools are not up to par. I went to Ahmadu Bello University at a time when it was a world-class institution.

At that time, getting a Second Class Upper grade in ABU, Zaria meant you could get the same grade in Cambridge University which is exactly what happened to me.

So we need to go back and invest in our institutions by scaling up your youths and the facilities they need for development so that when they come out, they can plug into the mainstream.

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•Continued on Page 25

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In my experience of over 27 years, I would not be speaking the truth if I say that I have never been harassed.

Not in a terrible way, but what I would describe as unsavoury and improper overtures being made towards me in a circumstance that was completely inappropriate.

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AN you tell us some of the personal challenges you have had to face in your career?

My professional corporate career life

The situation we have on the ground right now is that you find that many companies, once they hire young graduates, will have to put in place programmes which form part of their induction process into the organisation.

For about 3 to 6 months, the organisation will take them through basic rudimentary things that they ought to have picked up in secondary school.

From a personal experience, I have found that their areas of greatest challenge are the simple things. The young graduates are brilliant but basic skill are lacking such as logic, simple communication and creative thinking. It is a collective responsibility to ensure that the right investments in these young ones are made.

You are one of the women who Most women, few have been able to when they go break through the ceiling and into an glass establish herself in organisation your industry. Why you think many are just do African women have been able to focused on not cross that threshold? the task at My experience is that hand. They organisationevery is tell looking for the who can add themselves, ‘I person value and if that happens to have been person be a young female, given this they are going to very quickly assignment’ forget that you are a and they sit woman and put you a position where down, bow in you can make solid their heads contributions.

Most women, and focus on when they go into an are only that organisation just focused on the task. task at hand. They tell themselves, ‘I have been given this assignment’ and they sit down, bow their heads and focus on only that task.

However, in order to profit in an organisation, you need to lift your gaze and map out the entire territory and understand the objectives of the organisation and develop a strategic plan to key into that. Do your job, no doubt, but make sure that whatever you are doing is aligned to your ultimate goal because it is only when it pays that you will be able to progress.

Young women need to create that consciousness that lets them know that they are not just workers but are individual volunteers who are offering their services and that they have a unique contribution to make. No organisation can progress without excellent people. They need to understand the male perspective in the company over and beyond the female perspective and also understand that nobody is interested in your gender.

It is about the level to which your level of self-confidence has been built. It is a combination of how you have been nurtured, what kind of influences your parents gave

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Amina Oyagbola is the Human Relations Executive at MTN Nigeria Communications Limited and founder of Women In Successful Careers, WISCAR. Her professional career has spanned over 27 years in the legal, oil, banking and telecommunications sector.

She served as the Head, private banking division of United Bank for Africa and the Head of the Human Resource, Strategy, Standards and Business unit. In this interview with Rita Ohai, she raises the veil on her personal life and shares from her wealth of professional experience.

THE NATION ON SUNDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2012

THE SUNDAY INTERVIEW

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•Oyagbola •Continued from Page 24

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No organisation can progress without excellent people. They need to understand the male perspective in the company over and beyond the female perspective and also understand that nobody is interested in your gender.

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you, regardless of status and wealth. Going past the family environment, there is also the factor of the quality of education received and the social influences.

You find that by the time many of these women are going into the work place, they are already carrying a lot of baggage and their mental modules have been defined. All of these value systems are what they bring to bear into which ever organisation they decide to work in.

So the ability to succeed inside an organisation, given the dynamics of the organisation, are dependent on the individuals inter-personal skills, a deep understanding of the goals of the organisation and ability to mentally and strategically align with those goals.

From your extensive experience as a human resource executive, is the general assumption that women cannot work together true?

What I always try to do is to ensure that, in everything that I do whether it is a proposition or activity, I sell the benefits that the other person would derive from the process. Whether the person likes me or not, I can assure you that they will align always.

I think all human beings are generally complicated. Men are very competitive and women are also competitive among themselves.

In the workplace, men and women also compete every day. I think it takes two to tango and everybody has to give and receive a little.

But on the other hand, competition is also healthy. If you observe with all the consumer products that once competition is introduced, there is an awakening. It removes the arrogance and complacency as well as the monopoly mentality. It also pushes people to be more creative.

I believe also that any forward-looking individual will understand that it is better to collaborate with others because you will move faster instead of trying to do it on your own.

As one who heads the employee relations arm of your organisation, what is your experience with sexual harassment?

This sexual harassment issue is a very sensitive one. Does it exist? Yes! In my experience of over 27 years, I would not be speaking the truth if I say that I have never been harassed. Not in a terrible way but what I would describe as unsavoury and improper overtures being made towards me in a circumstance that was completely inappropriate. However, I have been blessed such that I have not suffered any discrimination by virtue of the fact that somebody had a design on me which was not responded to.

Let me also say that people who behave badly, will behave badly whether they are men or women. But we also know that there is something they call temptation. We should also not put ourselves in a compromising situation. I come from a construct that men should not say that they were tempted because a woman wore a particular blouse.

I believe the men should be able to have self-respect and discipline instead of using that as a lame excuse for bad behaviour but in the same vein, a professional woman need to comport herself in a particular manner which includes the way she carries herself and her dressing because the apparel maketh a man.

If I walk into an office with a miniskirt and a blouse exposing my cleavage, the likelihood of receiving negative overtures will increase but if I walk into the same office looking decent, unless the guy is just extremely badly behaved, he is likely to withdraw. For that reason in my corporate life, I have not suffered a lot.

I do know, based on feedback, that the ladies in the marketing arena are more

exposed because they have to go to environments they have no control over to negotiate and sell their products. I did a little bit of marketing and when I noticed that this was the case, I made a very quick adjustment. I made sure that whenever we ladies were going for marketing, we would not go alone. We would go accompanied with preferably a male colleague. So there are things we can do to limit the effect of harassment.

When you are not working as a highpowered executive, who is Amina Oyagbola?

I am a woman sitting in my chair watching a movie, home-based or foreign. I watch Africa Magic sometimes and have a good laugh, especially when my mum is around so I do not even have a choice but to watch it.

If I had the time I would go to the cinema but because that is difficult for me I get a DVD or my son downloads some for me. I watch a movie almost every night, it is my own way of relaxing. The other thing I do is take long walks.

If you were to get home on a good day and you had to cook your family a meal, which would it be, and why?

Would you believe me if I tell you that I can remember the last time I went into the kitchen? (she laughs) I can’t remember the last time I cooked a meal or entered the kitchen! Except, of course, to make sure that certain provisional items are available. I have a very good cook.

I have taught them over time how to make food to both my taste and my husband’s.

They can do it better that me. Given the fact that I have a very hectic schedule and also the fact that I actually do not enjoy cooking, but I love good food. Also my husband is not that fussy, he does not require that I should make it personally, so that is it.

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THE NATION ON SUNDAY DECEMBER 23, 2012

Politics

‘We don’t need technocrats as leaders now’ •Continued from Page 23 to take that revenue away from us and now there is already agitation at the National Assembly for a review of resource control. So, while things are good now, we must also save and plan for the future.

If you ask me, what kind of person will be able to take off from where Governor Akpabio will leave in 2015? I will tell you right now that we do not need a technocrat in government at that level.

We don’t even need a technocrat at the federal level. Look at where we are today in our development.

We are still a developing country.

What we need is an innovator. Ex-president Obasanjo, former Governor Donald Duke, were innovators, Governor Godswill Akpabio is an innovator. They are people that run into a brick wall and they don’t start looking for a manual and ask what do we do, where do we go from here. They just find a way to scale that brick wall.

But a technocrat in a third world country like ours will find it very difficult because there are road blocks and challenges eve-

rywhere. If you put them in a Western Environment, where there is a system already in place, they will succeed because there is a system already in place. The Okonjo Iwealas of this world are technocrats, she did well at the World Bank but in Nigeria it is a problem because if she wasn’t a technocrat, she would not have given a hasty advice on the removal of oil subsidy. But as a technocrat, she only had to think of a formula and it was to be applied quickly.

Between an innovator and technocrat, where can Larry Esin be placed?

I think I will definitely be an innovator, I am not a technocrat.

By my training and work experience I am not a technocrat.

Can you confirm if you have returned to the People’s Democratic Party?

Yes, I have officially returned to the People’s Democratic Party.

Recently, the people of Oron nation came together to present to the people of Akwa Ibom their position on the zoning of governorship position in Akwa Ibom State in 2015 and they stated emphatically that it is the turn of Oron na-

tion to produce Governor and a lot of people at the gathering even thought they were doing it with Larry Esin in mind, what is your take on this?

The agitation for governorship by the Oron nation, I think, can be understood by most Akwa Ibomites. Having said that, I have always been of the opinion and I still stand by my position that to be a Governor of Akwa Ibom is not an ethnic nationality issue and personally I will not be seeking the governorship because I’m

•Esin from Oron. I will seek the governorship because I am an Akwa Ibom son who wants to serve Akwa Ibom. In the final analysis, you will be the Governor of Akwa Ibom, not the Governor of Oron nation.

Have you had the opportunity to share ideas with Governor Akpabio on some issues in the state?

The governor and I have spo-

ken on a number of occasions. I have had the opportunity as well to sit with him and exchange ideas; for example, the idea on the industrialisation of the 31 LGAs. He ran that by me and I gave him my own thinking on how it should be done.

He has reached out to me on some other issues, but it never went beyond that. In other words, we didn’t meet on any official capacity because I am not on any board or any agency.

Can it be deduced from all you have said that you have made up your mind to contest the coming governorship election?

I have made up my mind that I have a right to contest governorship of Akwa Ibom State and I can exercise that right any time I feel like doing so.

Under what platform?

PDP is my party.

Are you coming on in 2015 I have the right to come on in 2015.

What’s Dokubo’s new game plan?

•Continued from Page 21 fresh juicy contract and has, therefore, resolved to use the media to fight another selfish battle. Is it now that he suddenly realised that Jonathan has elienated his immediate constituency? Opportunists like Dokubo should not be taken seriously. He has been reaping from where he planted not, and is, therefore, merely crying wolf. Please let’s ignore him and talk of how to move the country forward.”

Effiong, a political scientist, also claimed that Dokubo is playing a political game as he is toying with the idea of courting Chief Olusegun Obasanjo against Jonathan for reasons yet to be unveiled. “I think he is singing the tune of a political interest from where he hopes to reap in the near future,” he concluded.

It would be recalled that Dokubo, last Friday, pointedly blamed Jonathan for his alleged fallout with the former president.

Chief Dickson Edet, a political leader from Rivers State, however argued that there is a sense in what Dokubo has said. “It is a fact that Jonathan may have been misadvised, considering the way he has treated the South-South, the South-East and some other zones.

We may not like the person of Dokubo, especially the way he talks, but we can’t deny his courage. It is a fact that something is wrong presently, let’s face it and forget who is making the allegation.”

Ndigbo and Kalu’s call for unity U

NITY is something that is essential in the Igbo mythology. This is why every family, kindred and village in ala-Igbo always meet in their different soirees to discuss issues bothering on their welfares. The Igbo knows the importance of unity, and the forebears had a proverb that says, no one can break a bunch of broom, but it is easy to break just one broom.

For the umpteenth time, the former Governor of Abia State is calling on the Igbo to unite, irrespective of their political affiliations and associations. He has been reaching out to Igbo people both at home and in the Diaspora. From Cambodia to Canada he has not hidden his voice for this noble act. He is of the belief that the Igbo might not have gotten it right in the past, but are capable of getting it right this time. All it will take is just unity.

What makes his call unique is the neutral position he has taken in making sure that this is achieved. But this does not make him not to support any political party in Nigeria that would zone the 2015 presidential ticket to Ndigbo. This is what Kalu sees as the fundamental objective of his, since Ndigbo are not in dearth of credible and dynamic persons that the presidency of the country can be entrusted on.

Being over qualified to be president of Nigeria and with their wealth of entrepreneurship,

•Kalu

By Odimegwu Onwumere

Ndigbo can ever boast of the sagacity and dexterity to lead Nigeria. This is the bane of Kalu: why a people with such charisma cannot be allowed to mount the

exalted number one seat in the Nigeria’s political positions.

And it is time Ndigbo came together and avoid trading blames of the seemingly past that can never reemerge in the existence of man.

Kalu would tell anybody who doubts the stuff the Igbo are made of that they have made name in virtually all the areas of man’s endeavours. Is it in the business, politics, academia and benevolence, the Igbo have always hold the mace, but have not been allowed the pronouncedly lead Nigeria.

In the area of doing everything humanly possible for the wellbeing of Nigeria, the Igbo have always put in their legs. They have always expressed their republican nature in the amalgam that is called Nigeria by voting people of different ethnic backgrounds overwhelmingly.

Amongst others, they voted for Chief M.K.O. Abiola (when he was

alive) and Chief Olusegun Obasanjo in the 1993 and 1999/ 2003 presidential elections. They have also shown the same affability in them to President Goodluck Jonathan by mobilising and voting for him without blemish in the 2011 elections and as well have stood by him till date, in affirming the Igbo aphorism that says, Igwe bu ike.

But there is chagrin on the face of Kalu that the Igbo cannot always be in unity, only when they want to support an ‘outsider’.

They have to support their own and guide their integrity with every thud of responsibility. For this reason, from the USA to UK, Kalu has been mobilising for the unity of the Igbo. Many people have expressed and given him their support for this Igbo unity crusade, while few persons are still swimming in the pool of political brigandage against their Igbo kiths and kins, because of the infinitesimal derivations they get from the powers that are, especially in Aso Rock, the Nigeria’s seat of power.

Ndigbo have to parley without equivocation for their unity.

Ndigbo must solicit for the support of this unity project with unflinching support to the Igbo cause. No matter how anybody might be looking at it, Kalu has always fought for a selfless cause.

One was when he rocked as the president, Student Union Government of the University of

Maiduguri, Borno State.

It could be recalled that he refused the offer by the school authority to pardon him alone during the remonstration of the SUG that saw to many students being hounded out of the school.

Just as he is going everywhere telling the Igbo to come together and unite, so also he refused to be solely pardoned by the University of Maiduguri, saying that unless everyone involved in the march was pardoned. His function in shopping for the formation of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) cannot be easily forgotten. The likes of Dr. Alex Ekwueme, late S.M. Afolabi, Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, Atiku Abubakar and Aliyu Gwarzo, among others, would always thumb up for Kalu for his political wizardry.

Today, the party has become a party that has produced the highest political office holders since 1999 democracy was restored in the country. It is therefore very aplomb to applaud the commitment of Kalu in making sure that the Igbo is united to further the promotion of Nigeria.

Kalu has got what it takes to unite the Igbo no matter any gainsaying opinion. He has got the contacts beyond party and ethnic linings.

Onwumere is the Coordinator, Concerned Non-Indigenes In Rivers State (CONIRIV)

THE NATION ON SUNDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2012

MERCY AIGBE I never planned on being a second wife –Page 43

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THE NATION ON SUNDAY DECEMBER 23, 2012

Glamour

Steps to perfect

toes

Nail polish tips •Vivian Chiologi

•Nike Oshinowo Soleye

THE NATION ON SUNDAY DECEMBER 23, 2012

Glamour

Fashion and party dress guide for Christmas!

31

•Toolz

•Kate Henshaw

•Anita Uwagbale- Iseghohi MBGN 2004

•Kate Henshaw

OFFICE PARTY

This little black dress can be dressed up or down

•Omowunmi Akinnifesi

•Therapy Bonded lace blazer Green

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THE NATION ON SUNDAY DECEMBER 23, 2012

Glamour

50 Cent's fifth studio album, Street King Immortal, will be released early next year.

It's his first record in nearly four years, since 2009's Before I Self Destruct, his lowestselling project to date.

David Drake spoke with 50 about his next album's delays, the major success of his new single with Adam Levine and Eminem, and how much hip-hop has changed since his he hit the scene with his breakout work in the late '90s and early 2000s.

50 Cent on Eminem, social media and hip-hop

Courtesy: Complex Magazine

THEATRE

With VICTOR AKANDE

t

BIGSCREEN

Tel: 07029013958

Stars to perform at Monlisa Chinda's Xmas Dance Production P-Square wow Uganda fans •P-Square

SOUND TRACK

plus

GISTS

PAGE

33

E-mail: victor_akande@yahoo.com

Tinie Tempah, Big Sean, others set for Koko Concert

34

Entertainment

THE NATION ON SUNDAY DECEMBER 23, 2012

Entertainment

39

The Evening travels back in time

Why I don't celebrate Christmas with my family…

—Julius Agwu

As a matter of fact, that was one of the questions my wife asked me this morning, that she's looking forward to a Christmas when I will not work.

And I said to her that it will be nice, a Christmas where we'll just be hungry, looking at each other (laughs).

I have to hustle

MC More-Money set to drop new video

Without doubt, ace comedian Julius Agwu's power of spontaneity has set him apart from the crowd. After over a decade in the comedy business, the creator of comedy brands such as Crack Ya Rib and Laff 4 Christ Sake, continues to be on top of his game, turning himself into a brand that many up and coming comedians struggle to emulate. In this interview with MERCY MICHAEL, Julius opens up on his plans for the future as he clocks 40 next year. He also reveals his greatest fear as a brand, among sundry issues: •Wole

THE NATION SUNDAY,

DECEMBER 23, 2012

PAGE 35

ROCK & ROLL Amuneke celebrates

Birthday on ‘Xmas Day •Amuneke with wife, Fatimah and kids

36

37

NATION SPORT & STYLE SUNDAY, December 23, 2012

NATION SPORT & STYLE

NATION SPORT & STYLE

Sport celebs speak on Christmas celebration

By Taiwo Alimi

•Chukwu

ROCK & ROLL Amuneke celebrates 42nd birthday on 'Xmas Day

By Morakinyo Abodunrin •Amuneke family with a friend

•Waheed

•His first son, Mathew

•Amuneke

•Okocha

•Onyali

•Raheem •Ugbade

•Mikel

•Musa •Soriola

•Suswan

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2012

PAGE 38

Utibe Ubiam From soccer star to choreographer

•Balotelli with Tevez

Balotelli gets lesson in Christmas wrapping from Tevez

•Utibe with daughter

By Morakinyo Abodunrin

Wannabe WAGS besiege Man Utd’s Christmas party ,

•Rafael

40

Entertainment

THE NATION ON SUNDAY DECEMBER 23, 2012

Maltina adds fun to 2012 Carniriv

A

•Yaw with colleagues on set

Yaw floats sitcom

By Victor Akande Entertainment Editor

T the recently concluded Rivers State Carniriv Festival, Maltina, in its characteristic manner, engaged its consumers with loads of fun activities and events. The brand actively participated in the 2012 edition of the festival that ended in Port Harcourt, Rivers State over the weekend The Maltina Sharing Pavilion attracted a crowd of people who had the opportunity of winning fabulous gift and cash prizes in the week-long event. The dance contest which was categorised into 3 age groups of 11- 17 years, 18 - 34 years and 34 - 50 years was the favourite of fun seekers during the festival.

Participants at the keenly contested dance competition in the free style gig witnessed the crowd choosing the winners by voice vote. The grand prize winner at the end of the dance challenge was Solomon Nte, an undergraduate of the University of Port Harcourt who defeated Oko Felicia to the second position, and Kemi Onyemauwa to the

•Maltina Brand Manager, Abayomi Abidakun presenting prize to the winner, Solomon Nte

3rd position respectively.

The grand prize won was a 2.5 KVA Generator with a branded Maltina ATM card loaded with cash worth 20,000. The second prize was a 24 inches flat screen TV with a branded Maltina ATM card loaded with 15,000 while the third prize was a Fridge with a branded Maltina ATM card loaded with 10,000.

MIRNOFF, a notable vodka brand, treated fun lovers to a great moment last Friday with what it called a 3D disco party a fusion of music, art and video.

Landmark Event Centre, Lagos venue of the show hosted consumers, celebrities, musicians, on-air personalities and a host of others.

Among the artistes at the event were Eva, Olamide, Goldie, Vector, Ice Prince and DJ Spin'all who took charge of the wheel of steeel.

Marketing Director, Guinness Nigeria PLC Austin Ufomba, said Smirnoff brings the best in international nightlife to entertain its fans.

He said his company was by the 3D party, pushing the boundaries of the party experience to ensure a night Nigerians will never forget. "When fans are looking to have fun and party, we want them to always choose to do so with Smirnoff,” he stated.

He added that Smirnoff has also launched a new social media initiative in an effort to connect with its fans to make sure it continues to give fans what they enjoy the most. He said Smirnoff Party Central is an interactive page on Facebook for fans to engage with the brand.

S

Smirnoff’s scorecard at 3D party

Obesere, Ope Banwo inspire at ‘Youth Symposium’

•Obesere

Entertainment

THE NATION ON SUNDAY DECEMBER 23, 2012

Femi Kuti, Tuface, others dazzle at TOP10MICS

41

Wale Adenuga U-14 Cup begins

•2face

Mudi opens corporate office •Wale Adenuga

K1 discovers young talents

By Kunle Akinrinade

•VIPs at the event taking a pose

•Kate Henshaw and Helen Sosu

Tillaman, K9, Eminic, thrill crowd at St-Remy Gbedu Slam Jam

•Tillaman

•KI, Tee Mac in a pose with the students of Ronik College

42

Entertainment

THE NATION ON SUNDAY DECEMBER 23, 2012

CINEMA GUIDE

BIG

PICTURE

LAGOS

Supported by: SILVERBIRD CINEMAS

The Dictator:

A world of terror

PORT HARCOURT

ABUJA

Resident Evil:

Fights in futuristic universe

THE NATION ON SUNDAY DECEMBER 23, 2012

Glamour

43

‘Being a second wife wasn't part of my childhood dreams’ Nollywood actress, Mercy Aigbe, speaks with Daniel Popoola on her wavemaking comedy, Osas.

She also tells us how she handles her male fans, the challenges of managing her home and career and how fate led her to be a second wife.

Y

44

THE NATION ON SUNDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2012

Glamour

Social

ADETUTU AUDU (E-mail: crownkool@yahoo.com, Tel: 08023849036)

Day Farouk Lawan cause stir in Sokoto

Satty Rahmon eyes politics

About Wale Adebanwi's modesty

Omasan Buwa's twins plot charity for less privileged

Uche Nnaji set to wed

THE NATION ON SUNDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2012

Glamour

Lola Omotayo due for delivery in US

Tunde and Wunmi Fanimokun's love story

Yemi Adedeji celebrates at 70 Christian Doherty hibernates with his millions

Wild rumours trail Ifeanyi Okonkwo's marriage

45

46

THE NATION ON SUNDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2012

Glamour

& Mrs Roseline Oluyemi laid to rest OLUSEGUN RAPHEAL (08033572821) raphseg2003@yahoo.com

L-R: Sir Muftau Oyegunle and Mr. Ebenezer Suleiman

THE NATION ON SUNDAY DECEMBER 23, 2012

47

VOL 1 NO. 037

B

RANDS’ advertising or marketing communication is not given to assumption. We have written well over three articles on the professional imperatives for a successful advertising/ campaign because of its importance. The creative process lends itself to so much freedom. It is about self-expression.

Consequently, if unguarded, the individual or team behind any assignment or process will likely express his/herself or itself, FREELY. One very interesting thing about advertising creative process is that it begins and ends with the target-consume; the market…people. It is about behavioral pattern, trend and perception. The endresult of advertising campaigns or brands communication is based on accountability, and so, we often have to look at the BOTTOM-LINE. The figures must tell a good story to justify the strategic platform and focus, the creative process, the execution plan and the investment (time and finance). It all comes with a huge responsibility on the Adman.

Yet, it is all so glamorous and permissive. Most times, and especially in our local market, clients do not have adequate understanding of the advertising process and duty to ask questions. So, they do not bother to stretch the Adman’s responsibility to the point of result evaluation or effectiveness check. Unfortunately that is an aspect of the client’s responsibility of ensuring quality assessment among practitioners in brands management or marketing communication/advertising (since the regulatory authority responsible for advertising quality-check seems to have failed). If clients make their rightful demands, most of the ads today would not have been thought of. Over 75% of corporate advertising or brands management service providers in this market today do not adhere to the rules of practice because it is demanding of the same reasons for which it is a professional discipline.

Adam Richardson wrote a paper on what I refer to as the power of articulate planning, to say “DON’T ASSUME YOU KNOW YOUR CUSTOMER. He looked at the importance of consumer insight from the position of the brand owner and the brand manager. Often times, taking the consumer for granted does not come as a deliberate occurrence, but the consequence of system failure or self confidence. Assumed familiarity could result in process-compromise. For instance, a campaign development process faced with an assignment similar in many respects with a past experience is likely to make deductions and draw conclusions from the past engagement to execute the current assignment. In which case, so much happens in the negative, as consequences. Hence one of the competitive advantages of a creative system I know is the philosophy of “no two briefs are the same”.

Ideally, the creative process starts and ends with the target market or consumer. No matter the robustness of the client’s brief, the creative process starts by critically examining it in line with established facts in the market place (what the people know). It is never about what the brand know, thinks or say…its always about what the market thinks. But unfortunately, the opposite happens today.

Professional adherence to the ideal creative process is important and

Brand Positioning and Consumer Expectation

Data Fact for This Week Data supplied by Media Planning Services Limited profitable for its roles. It is functional, critical, systematic, and analytic; it guides creative interpretation of derived strategic focus. Here, the creative brief form is imperative. The creative brief forms contain every relevant question that systematically lays out the duties, obligations and expectations by which the practitioner must perform his/her duty. If we carefully run the creative process through the creative brief forms, we would achieve a true and thorough investigation of the brand, answer questions about the market and competing brands, properly articulate the challenges facing the brand, clearly understand the target consumer and creatively select the words, pictures/ images and symbols with which the creative products and communications materials are developed.

Every brand is sold on the basis of positioning. In turn, it is the duty of the

creative process to properly position a brand for the desired result – whatever that may be. The ideal creative process guides against wrong positioning. It helps in aligning the brand person, position and offer with the consumer expectation while protecting the brand from competition. Hence it requires careful market and consumer information gathering and analysis. The Adman must commit to scientific and careful study and interpretation of research data. He/she must evolve a working strategy from the data analysis to sell the brand or idea.

The critical point is when there is a DISCONNECT between the brand’s positioning statement and the consumer expectation and/or experience. When that happens, the brand fails. This can happen either due to improper process adherence or non-application, but except clients begin to hold agencies responsible for advertising campaign failures, we

shall continue to waste time and money, and continue to see and hear adverts that are deceitful, meaningless, and to no purpose.

At about 10.34am on Monday December 17, 2012, I heard a radio campaign from RED BULL brand of energy drink on Radio Continental 102.3 FM. What struck me is the promise it made “RED BULL MAKE YOU WIN”.

There is so much to say, looking at this claim and brand position as could be derived, but we shall leave it to our readers, considering the importance of the ideal creative process as captured in this piece. However, we must say the creative process that threw up this RED BULL promise is certainly not the ideal process demanding of a brand in the stature of this brand. A brand’s promise must be true and in line with consumer experience to help the given brand achieve set marketing objective. That is instructive.

48

THE NATION ON SUNDAY DECEMBER 23, 2012

A woman's Christmas

By Yetunde Oladeinde

THE NATION ON SUNDAY DECEMBER 23 , 2012

Dealing with Yuletide stress

New WOMAN

49

Santa, I want love that won't die

50

Etcetera

THE NATION ON SUNDAY DECEMBER 23, 2012

SUNNY SIDE

Cartoons

By Olubanwo Fagbemi

POLITICKLE

deewalebf@yahoo.com 08060343214 (SMS only)

A twenty-first century guide •Supplementary edition

OH, LIFE!

THE GReggs

Hi, I enjoyed your write-up of 5th August, 2012 (A twenty-first century guide) in The Nation newspaper. I’d love you to add me to your BBM friends, or better still, be my friend on Facebook as I’m in short supply of people like you (PIN supplied). +2348066339*** FOR the faithful reader and others as inclined, the writer tenders additional counsel gleaned from the best minds available. In the hope that the material subsequently served in subtle, cynical style resonates with you, dear reader, the writer begins by stating that life’s best lessons are often learnt outside the classroom, and the first is that you can pick up something valuable from anyone. Nobody, not even the one providing the least service, is to be underrated.

Also learn to stand up for yourself from the start or you might find the going tough at the end. You will be tried and tested but you must remain true and steadfast to prevent recurrence of the test of will and character.

And while you must accept that the best advice can come from the most unexpected corner, let no one tell you what can’t do. Tell yourself what you must do once you establish that it is the right thing to do. And never underestimate your ability to survive all odds but one – death, the ultimate factor.

Still, note that between cruelty and kindness, the latter always wins.

Kindness is not a way, but the only way to go. You know the old saying about being kind to those you meet on your way to the top; think of it as a time-tested insurance package. Good attracts good; bad begets bad.

Do you find it hard to give? Realise that give-and-take is as effective as the ease of effort required. Begin to work at making the art of giving easier and you would be justified to receive.

Where service delivery is dutifully and accurately measured, sacrificing quality for quantity or banking on a great plan to mitigate poor execution is sacrilegious. In other words, don’t compromise quality, however sound your ideas are.

Now the old argument: the classroom or the workshop? The polytechnic or the university? I say this: the classroom as the workshop; the polytechnic cum the university. The one or the other, but better the advantages of both: sufficient theory as well as adequate practice.

You may have heard it said: “Money lost, experience gained”. No phrase better captures the right attitude to business or work. The engineer, manager, doctor, driver, plumber or farmer gets better from the timerelated quality called experience. It cannot always be captured in monetary value, but it is still the best thing to invest in as it often ensures increased rewards with greater practice after successive failures. Improve yourself, therefore.

Finally, work with a plan, but make room for contingencies. Every achiever requires a plan B or C, or D. But just in case you can’t help falling, remember that you cannot afford to lie down. Get up and get cracking! From your immediate circumstances, identify or create positives to work with and you are well and truly on your way to pastures new.

CHEEK BY JOWL

Readers’ Response My fellow Naijerians …

O riyen so gan ni, Mr Fagbemi, mo ro pe Agege lo n gbe? Be assured that Tabobtabons will continue to wrest for themselves the right to aim unrestrainedly at your Language Farce project until Nigerians make a habit of reading good books. Thanks for always making my Sunday. +2347056128*** Sons and Looters Cry de Beloved Naija, Unto die Hangs Oh load. All these applicable in one country and still existing. What does it take to ‘rescue’ or ‘ruin’ Nigeria? Sons and Looters refers. Accept my compliments. Nigeria Shall Be Freed. +2348052358***

Jokes Humour

Modern Law MRS SMITH, the Primary Six teacher, posed the following problem to one of her Mathematics classes: “A wealthy man dies and leaves ten million naira. One-fifth is to go to his wife, one-fifth is to go to his son, one-sixth to his servant, and the rest to charity. Now, what does each get?”

After a very long silence in the classroom, Little James raised his hand. The teacher called on Little James for his answer. With complete sincerity in his voice, the boy said, “A lawyer!”

Special Dinner A MAN and a woman were having dinner in a fine restaurant.

Their waitress, taking another order at a table a few paces away noticed that the man was slowly sliding down his chair and under the table, with the woman acting unconcerned.

The waitress watched as the man slid all the way down his chair and out of sight under the table.

Still, the woman dining across from him appeared calm and unruffled, apparently unaware that her dining companion had

disappeared.

After the waitress finished taking the order, she came over to the table and said to the woman, “Pardon me, ma’am, but I think your husband just slid under the table.”

The woman calmly looked up at her and replied firmly, “No, he didn’t. He just walked in through the door.”

Opportunity Breaks Once A PATIENT had broken his leg and it was going to have to be set. To get him ready for this painful event, he was heavily sedated.

While in this state, he spoke rather freely with the hospital staff and his wife. And she apparently learned several things about her husband.

When it was time to reverse the medication, the wife said, “Wait! Not yet. I have some more questions I want to ask.”

QUOTE The best way to succeed in life is to act on the advice we give to others.

—Author Unknown •Adapted from the Internet

M

AKING Writer ’s Fountain y o u r characters stand out: Apply a But what does your character really want? background. Give your characters some past What is he willing to sacrifice everything for – traumatic, dangerous, ridiculous, and and will do anything to achieve? This is the secretive –, but just don’t tell the reader about character’s bent. Every major character needs it. Make him guess and wonder about what one. This is what readers care about.

Like background, reveal that bent gently. happened before that put them where they Mete out his desire in small doses. It isn’t are now. Feed Background into your story in bits and pieces so gently that if the reader necessary to explain it all at once. Have your blinks, he might miss it. But make it protagonist act in such a way that the reader thinks “so that’s what’s really driving him.” interesting enough that he won’t blink.

True, not all stories are intense or tragic Build in desire. What does your protagonist want? To solve the crime, get the so you can’t have one character filling 400 girl, overcome obstacles to find new meaning pages. There have to be tender moments, in his/her life? Those are normal desires. indecisive situations and angry scenes. You want your reader to care about these people, Origin of phrases: to get involved with them, and to believe •“Second string,” meaning “replacement they’re real. or backup,” comes from the middle ages.

Give adequate description. Tell just a little, An archer always carried a second string in and let the reader infer the rest. Give a case the one on his bow broke. description early on, so the reader doesn’t •“Speak of the Devil” is short for “Speak imagine a tall, dark stranger and find out on of the Devil and he shall come”. It was page 50 that he’s really a short, pale stranger. believed that if you spoke about the Devil It’s so tempting to reel out a whole paragraph it would attract his attention. That’s why of physical description at once: hair and eye when you’re talking about someone and colour, height, build, skin tone, clothes, and they show up people say “Speak of the get it over with. Your reader’s eyes would Devil.” simply glaze over.

THE ARTS

51

THE NATION ON SUNDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2012

It is season for fun and money The art sector is bubbling with life as artistes of all genres are busy perfecting strategies and preparing art works to make money and make the season joyous for themselves and for the general public, reports Edozie Udeze

T

HIS yuletide season has been a very busy one for the art and culture sector. Right from the word go, artistes, art patrons and enthusiasts have been in the mood to ensure that the sector is in a bubbling and festive is frame for both the Christmas and the New year celebrations. Based on this, most of the programmes packaged by art practitioners have been tailored towards making people realize that the sector is equally prepared for the season.

“It is not all about buying and selling food items for the family,” Abraham Uyovbisere, an artist and President of the Guild of Professional Artists of Nigeria (GFA) enthused. “The idea here is to let people know that in as much as we are preparing our families for the yuletide, we artists are also smiling to the banks.

That means that the art is thriving now as more art patrons buy our works as gifts… But then I cannot tell you the amount of money I have made or the number of works I have sold,” he teased, brushing the poser aside. “But I’ll tell you about one which is called charge,” he said.

Art works Unlike Uyovbisere who refused to disclose all the themes, titles and number of works he has sold, Bruno Ajuwam, another renowned artist based in Lagos enumerated some of the ones he has sold this season as: Carvings on wood burnings whose titles are as follows: Hair weaving, Chief and wife, The virtuous woman. Others are thoughts, celebrations and so on.

According to Ajuwam, these titles revolve around the theme of Christmas. “People just came to my studios and requested to procure them. Even you, if you see any of those wood burnings, you’d like to possess them. They truly speak to the heart concerning the yuletide. But again carvings on wood burnings is not a common medium in the art world. May be that’s why art patrons fall in love with them.”

In the main, Ajuwam agreed that he is financially ready for the season. “But then” he said, “I won’t tell you how much I’ve made. I don’t want those bad boys to come after me and my family, you see,” he said, brimming with joy. But again there are some well-seasoned painters who are more involved now in commissioned works.

Stage performances This genre of the art is ever alive in Nigeria. For a while now, theatre art practitioners have been busy re-igniting the stage with

H.

A. Goodman’s book: Breaking the Devil’s Heart: A logic of Demons Novel takes one on a journey to the afterworld. It’s a story that captures and exposes Satan’s antics against humanity.

Goodman delves into a Satan’s unknown thoughts in always looking for opportunity to trade on the human soul.

The novel centres on Stewarts (Mr. Willoughby) a former CIA agent who thinks he has a mandate in his “after -life” to destroy Satan’s ploy against humanity that is not aware of how hard the devil is making sure that his plans will be futile.

The novel makes one understand that the devil is only interested in souls who are living an unpleasant life. “Hell” was referred to as “The Company,” a financial institution in the present day New

both old and new plays. “It is to let the world still appreciate the fact that the stage holds the strongest allure for thespians,” Ebi Pre-Bai, the Secretary – General of Guild of Nigerian Dancers (GOND) explained in an interview.

This is why Isiburu, a play written by one of Nigeria’s oldest novelists, Elechi Amadi, has been done for the stage for the season. It opens at Tera Kulture, Victoria Island, Lagos on the 6th of January and will run till the 13th. The time is 3 and 6p.m daily and the choice of Tera Kulture, according to Pre-Bai is to completely establish the caliber and seriousness of the play in an elitist environment.

Isiburu as a play, hinges on leadership and followership in a society in the threshold of chaos. In a moment like this too, followers should sit up to wrestle power from the status quo. It is not always proper to blame leaders for the failure of a state, the economic quagmire that beset the people. Isiburu therefore queries that usual sit down syndrome characteristic of African societies and then says it is time for people to be more proactive and work for a change. The play is directed by Pre-Bai. Equally showing at the Muson Centre on Monday, 24th of this month is Odia Ofeimun’s Nigeria the Beautiful. It is the story of Nigeria from amalgamation in 1914 to the present. Also on the 26th, the Black Heritage Festival will commence in Lagos. The emphasis this year will be on the Brazilian culture as they come and re-unite with their kit and kin in Nigeria.

The National Theatre, Lagos Although the Christmas tree which has been the main attraction at the National Theatre is absent for the second year running, the main lawns and arenas have been prepared and decorated to host children. With plenty of space and merry-go-round materials to attract children, the arena is now fit for the season.

Already parents and school teachers who have the time, frequent the Theatre daily to give their kids the desired treats for the yuletide. And again there are many traditional Yoruba films showing at the cinema halls.

Some of the films are those done by Hubert Ogunde, Baba Sala and so on. From now till the second weekend in January, the halls will be busy hosting these films and keeping thespians happy for the New year.

Equally in place at the National Theatre is Wale Adenuga’s Nenna and Friends. This is a production that has taken the public by

•People having fun at the National Theatre, Lagos

•Charge by Abraham sold as Christmas gift

storm. It has won so many followers that once it is on stage kids begin to worry their parents to take them out to watch the shows.

Nenna is truly at home with kids and this is the time to let the kids have the fun of their lives. Between now and the New Year, the show will be on stage every weekend inside the exhibition hall of the Theatre.

Exhibitions Art Expo is going on now. Art Expo is a yearly art exhibition organised by the National Gallery of Art (NGA) to highlight foremost contemporary works for the year. The exhibition which opened on December 17 will run till 26th at National Museum, Onikan, Lagos.

Opening from 9a.m every day, the sector is properly attuned to the very vital role being played by this exhibition. It is not just for painters, it also showcases photographs, works by art gallery owners that need to be exhibited.

And with over one hundred works on display, Art Expo ranks among one of the largest exposi-

Journey to the afterworld

By Ken Bamichie Afor

York Stock Exchange. As stocks, derivatives and shares are been traded on the floor so also in the “the company,” human souls are being traded in this instance.

As there are stockbrokers trading on shares for companies so also there are “market makers” who trade on human souls for the devil.

Goodman clearly portrayed the latent ability of human imagination. It helps to understand that in the realm of the spirit there is on distance. For Stewart to know what is going on in the mind of his girl friend Layla, who is a partner with Stewart, there had to be a contact of Stewart‘s spirit with that of Layla’s.

The main characters in this novel,

Stewart: Mc Willoughby a former CIA agent and also a history teacher who had worked for the agency for year before he died. It was in his “after life” he reincarnated back to earth to accomplish what has always been on his mind: “Break the Devil’s heart.”

Layla: Ms O’ Toole, a former English teacher in her late twenties has the same ambition as Stewarts and is always found around as a result to

tion of contemporary artworks in the society.

Also on song now is Stella Awoh whose exhibition, holding at the Yaba College of Technology, Yaba, Lagos says a lot about feminism in artworks. Awoh has some of the best works imbued with the Christmas spirit for the lovers of art works. Her works come mainly on oil on canvass and pointedly appeal to the senses in varied romantic ways.

Most interesting of them all however, is the Revolution Now, a fall-out of January 2012 oil subsidy protests by Nigerians. Parts of the protests have been translated into pictures and artworks by Kunle Ogunfuyi who will open the New Year with an exhibition of some of the works.

It will open on January 6th at the National Museum, Onikan, Lagos and will run till January 17th. Time for the opening ceremony is 3:45p.m. The exhibition will highlight all that has happened in the oil industry and then repackage more works to tease the public in the coming months.

her intimate relationship with Stewarts.

Adrain: former student to Layla who appeared at the middle of the novel contributed greatly in accomplishing Stewart’s desire in destroying the devil’s plan to hunt down the human soul.

In terms of the credibility of the characters in the novel, Stewarts who had worked in a criminal detention department in CIA was given an unusual task that had never been addressed before by the agency or any other government organization: Find the root of evil and learn ways to destroy this impulse within mankind.

H. A. Goodman’s novel is to make the unaware to be aware that there is a spiritual world controlling this physical world. His intention in the book is to awake the “unawakened” that the devil is not as lazy as we are, he works

on a daily basis to make sure humans partake in his punishment in reality for eternity.

He wants readers to understand the dynamics, ploy and antics the devil uses to lure and cajole people to succumb to his plans.

For those who doubt the existence of heaven and hell, the novel proves that they exist.

It also proves that good has always prevailed over evil no matter the enormity of evil. Those who want to understand more about spirituality will find the book very interesting, though it will take some level of maturity to understand the message.

For one to understand the intention and purpose of this book you have to read page by page to the last word. It is a fiction story well told that is hard to put down once you start reading.

52

THE NATION ON SUNDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2012

Arts/Reviews

•From left: Chinese dancers and their Nigerian counterparts on stage in Beijing

T

HE excitement and joy written on the faces of some of the Chinese who gathered for the Nigerian cultural week in Beijing, China, was obvious. As they walked from one stand to another viewing the art works on display and savouring Nigerian cuisines, they expressed satisfaction with the Nigerian people for the opportunity to bring Nigeria to Beijing. A young lady called Jun, said “I love the feel of Nigerian people. The food also smells nice.”

Musta Li, a Chinese Muslim from the Northern part of the country who has been to Nigeria before, said: “People of Nigeria are good. See, I have eaten eba before. It tastes so sweet, so delicious.”

He said Nigerian art works have come to dominate world attention in recent times.

“Your artists are cool,” he said smiling.

Asked what he came to do in Nigeria, he simply said, “To be with my Muslim brothers in Lagos. I was really on my way to Saudi, and stayed over for only two days,” he stated further, moving from one stand to another.

Culture and technology From the level and stage of development in Beijing, the capital of the People’s Republic of China, no one is left in doubt that the people’s recourse to their traditional norms and values have helped them to be the foremost technologically advanced society in the world.

This was an obvious fact as Nigerian and Chinese culture technocrats, stakeholders and artistes gathered in Beijing last week to celebrate what was appropriately tagged: Celebrating Nigeria Cultural Week in Beijing, China.

The three day event was deliberately chosen by the Federal Ministry of Culture, Tourism and National Orientation to showcase Nigerian dances, cuisines, fashions,

Nigerian dancers dazzle in Beijing, China In Beijing, China, last week, the National Troupe of Nigeria was able to prove to the international community during the Nigerian Cultural Week sponsored by the Federal Ministry of Culture, Tourism and National Orientation, that culture has become a tool for socio – economic and cultural advancement in world affairs.

Edozie Udeze, who attended the celebration in Beijing, China, writes on the importance of the outing to both nations and how Nigerian dancers stole the show crafts, designs, art works, and other forms of creativity to the Chinese audience and then see a way to attract same to Nigeria. This was why the National Troupe of Nigeria, the nation’s apex dance ensemble was in place to display cultural dances not only to tease the Chinese society, but to also prove to the world that dance still forms one of the best ingredients for diplomatic friendship among the nations of the world.

The total display of beautiful dances by Nigerian dancers was what the Chinese people needed to unwind and shuffle their legs and nod their heads to the heavy percussive sounds of the drums.

The National Troupe opened the show with the maiden dance from Owo, Ondo State, called Shokoro Owo. It was a dance that was used to open the programme on the first day.

Decked in red beads and crowns on their heads, the female dancers took the gathering to different stages of the wooing of a woman, till the moment when she agrees to be a man’s wife… The dance was so colourful and moving that even the Chinese Vice Minister of Culture, Domg Wei who stood in for their government could not hide his delight and joy. But that

was only a tip of the iceberg, as the Minister said that he hoped to see more wonderful displays of Nigeria’s cultural heritage the next day “This is good,” Wei kept muttering as he nodded his head.

The second day indeed saw a charged and more colourful Nigerian dancers who did all they could to match their Chinese counterparts.

Even though Nigerian dances were deeply embedded in their traditional heritage, their Chinese counterparts showed their best in classical Asian dances. Theirs were more of opera and classical shows typical of the Chinese tradition.

While the classical sounds played in the background, the dancers manipulated their tambourines, trumpets and violins. The combination of all these, with their colourful and powerful costumes made the event more of a carnival; a cultural festival that indeed melted people’s hearts while it lasted.

Culture and diplomacy When the Odudu dance pattern by Nigerians appeared on stage to raise the tempo of the beatings, almost everybody went agog with joy. Odudu dance came with an intermittent rise in the provocative sounds of the

drums. The drummers who were in their best elements truly celebrated the beauty and secrets of drumming.

While that was on, Chinese photographers went all out to have a fields day. A Chinese photographer whose name was Xi told me in smattering English; “Ah good. People of Nigeria good.”

And with that remark more dances were showcased to completely climax the nation’s total avowal to cultural diplomacy. By doing so and achieving the desired effect, Martin Adaji, the Artistic Director of the National Troupe of Nigeria spent time enough to choose his team and select the best costumes to suit the occasion. These costumes which came in different colours and traditions made the audience to applaud the dancers from the beginning to the end. “This is the celebration of who we are and what we stand for,” so said Arnold Udoka, who choreographed the dances.

Adaji also said: “we needed to prove to the world and to even ourselves that culture has become a tool for the socio-economic advancement of most nations of the world. In this wise, Nigeria can’t be left behind. And since we have costumes in abundance in our country, we

needed to use plenty of them to dazzle the world.”

Part of the reasons for the Nigeria Culture week was to see how culture can be used to foster on everlasting friendship between the two nations. Already there are plenty of Nigerians resident in China. These Nigerians too needed to pull themselves together to show their own pride as Nigerians. Like Ngozi, a Nigerian student on Chinese scholarship in Beijing said: “Our friends here will now know that we too have a country we are proud of. For the government of Nigeria to pull such a crowd here in Beijing shows how strong the Nigerian government is towards a cultural relationship between the two nations.” Ngozi is a student of Information and Technology at Perking University, who also speaks a bit of the Chinese language.

Apart from Nigerian students and others who ply their trade in Beijing and other commercial cities in China, who were able to attend the celebration, the event proved that the world is indeed a global village. As Nigerians tried to speak and communicate in the Chinese language, their Chinese counterparts purposely rummaged in the threos of Nige-

rian cultures. A lot of Nigeria’s artifacts, art works and cuisines were on display to show culture in diversity.

While the exhibitions were going on, some Chinese people went round to view and ask questions. Some of their questions bordered on the need to make the show a yearly event. Xi looked up to me and said: “You, beautiful people. Nigeria big country.”

But like Chief Edem Duke, Nigeria’s Minister of Culture, declared in his address at the occasion, “Nigeria is the most profitable business destination in Africa. And being a nation of over 445 ethnic groups, so are the number of cultural values that Nigeria possesses.

Therefore, we need one another; we need plenty Chinese investors to come over to explore this vastness, this beauty, these opportunities and more. Since we are the largest travelers and spender in Africa, we know how to court friendship using culture, using food, using fashion and other forms of creativity,” Duke further stated as the gathering cheered and applauded him.

The Chinese Vice – Minister of Culture, Wei who agreed that Nigeria is a powerful cultural market in the world said that the people were prepared to share the beauty of both nations in an atmosphere devoid of avarice.

“Equity is what we stand for.

We attach so much importance to the cultural values of the Nigerian nation. This love for a peaceful relationship is a wonderful vista of opportunities to us. This is why this is an ideal platform to forge this relationship ahead,” Wei explained.

And so it was in Beijing as more efforts are underway now to involve more people to make culture a permanent platform for a global friendship, advancement and development.

53

THE NATION ON SUNDAY DECEMBER 23, 2012

Vaccine administration as a drain pipe

•A neonate with tetanus

•A two year old with severe measles

The alleged racketeering in the distribution of vaccines across the country has posed a challenge to the national programme on immunisation, Augustine Ehikioya takes a look at the issue and the fresh polio outbreak of polio in the Federal Capital Territory

•A child receiving oral polio vaccine

Contd on page 54

54

THE NATION ON SUNDAY DECEMBER 23, 2012

Miscellany

Yuletide on the Plateau In two days it will be Christmas. Plateau State has in the past few years not celebrated yuletide, however, this year peace seems to have returned to the famed 'Tin City' as residents gear up to celebrate. YUSUFU AMINU IDEGU captures the prevailing festive mood.

•Christmas shoppers buying second-hand clothes in Jos

•Shopping complex in Jos this December.

The nation’s drain pipe Contd from page 53

THE NATION ON SUNDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2012

55 Another season of madness on Lagos roads —PAGE 57

‘We want our brother’s remains’ Pa Solomon Sowole and Ma Olufunke are the parents of the late Lt. Adeyemi Sowole, the co-pilot of the Nigerian Navy chopper which crashed in Bayelsa State last weekend killing all the six passengers. They are old and in grief. When ADETUTU AUDU and INNOCENT DURU met them at their Iyana-Ipaja home, they looked distraught and overwhelmed with grief. Their house was besieged by hordes of sympathisers. Amid the grieving and cries, the family revealed the late Adeyemi was supposed to be off duty the day he died. They expressed regrets that he and the others were not treated as if they mattered.

W

HEN Lt. Adeyemi Sowole, the co-pilot in the December 15 helicopter crash in Bayelsa State jokingly told Aderonke, his younger sister, that he would not be coming home for the family’s annual get-together, never did it occur to her that his statement would in reality translate to eternal departure from the home.

Aderonke who spoke with The Nation on Sunday at their family home in Lagos narrated that the brother would not have died if he had not received a call on the eve of his death to cancel his break from work. She recalled tearfully that he was supposed to be off from duty on the fateful day that he met his untimely death but had to go back to work when he got the call.

She said: “My late brother was a humble and caring man.

He called me his second wife and mother. I will never forget him. I thank God that he had a child and was expecting another before he died.

“We spoke few days before he died. One of the things I asked him was if he would be coming home for our annual end of the year/ New Year get together. He jokingly replied that he was not coming but later said he would come. I never knew that the joke was real. I never knew that the statement meant that he would never come home again. It was a joke at that particular point in time but it has become a reality that we have to live with forever.

He had fixed his personal gettogether for December 28 but he is not here anymore, he’s gone.

It is unfortunate that people are only talking about (Governor Patrick) Yakowa and (Gen Andrew Owoye) Azazi without any concern about the other victims and their families. It is painful that mention is not made of them. Were they not human beings like other victims?

“He was supposed to be in Lagos on that very day he died.

He was supposed to be off from duty that very day but he got a signal on Friday night that a week had been added to his duty schedule. That was why he could not come to Lagos and had to dutifully embark on that ill-

fated journey.”

Premonition As if he had premonition of his death, he was said to have spoken with virtually all his siblings on the eve of his death.

The elder sister Funke Kalejaye said “I spoke with him on Friday evening from the Redemption Camp. He told me that we would talk more when he returned on Sunday but that was not to be. I heard about his death from my husband and could not believe it. His death is painful because he never joked with all of us and his chosen career.”

Taiwo, the elder brother,

said the news of his brother’s death was shocking.

“Nobody ever in his wildest imagination ever thought of that.

We want to see his remains. Personally, I want to see him. The government should release his remains to us. I must see it, no matter what it looks like, he said.

Owolabi, the immediate younger brother, also requested that his remains should be made available to the family.

He said: “The government should take care of the family he left behind. They should also investigate the cause of the crash and make their findings public and at the same time make his remains available to us.

•Lt. Adeyemi Sowole

“We discussed at length the Friday preceding his death.

He made a lot of promises to me because all that he asked me to do had matured. All that

was left for me was for him to return from the ill-fated journey and ask me to carry on. On that very night, he pleaded with me to take our mum to the hospital because he did not want anything to happen to her. I never knew that he was making his last wishes that very day.”

A mother remembers Recalling his last moment with her, the mother said: “I was on admission at the hospital on that fateful day. Earlier on Friday, I had spoken with Yemi that I was feeling feverish and he advised I go to the hospital. He promised to see me as soon as he comes back, not knowing that he won’t.

So that was how I was admitted.

By the time I returned home, I just met a lot of people in our house, especially some close family friends and I wondered what had happened. By the time I settled in, the news was broken to me.

The newspaper just reported that a governor and a former NSA and others died in the crash. They never mentioned the others’ names.”

She described him as a “Child that loved his parents and his siblings. He would not want us to suffer. He was our bread winner.

I am 64 and the father is close to 80 years. He also loves his aged grandmother close to 100 years.

He showed excellent spirit right from when he was young. He had been certified to drive warship before he went for further training in piloting in Italy. He graduated last year and also got married last year March. His wife just delivered a baby in March this year “When he was younger, Yemi

•The late Yemi with his wife during their traditional wedding

•Continue on Page 56

56

THE NATION ON SUNDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2012

Life

Christmas with celebrities

In just two days, it will be Christmas. A season celebrated all over the world. Almost everyone is painting the town in Christmas colours. Apart from splashing colours, sending gifts, showering money on friends and relatives, many are travelling.

It is indeed a time to wine and dine; a time to love and be loved. Yetunde Oladeinde, Adetutu Audu and Segun Akanbi went to town to find out how celebrities are going to celebrate the season.

Wunmi Aboderin

My plans concerning this Christmas is to celebrate it indoors with my family. I have promised not to go out this time around. Instead I am going to make everything fun with my family. In addition to this, I am also planning to go to the orphanage to celebrate with them. I have not decided which one I would be visiting but I have a couple of them on my mind.

Oby Edozien Christmas is a wonderful season, a time to show love to others. I am going to spend my Christmas with my husband and my family. I have made a lot of cool arrangements and I am going to make it a lot of fun, filled with unique memories.

Okunore twins First we will attend a morning service in the church. After this we will be spending Christmas with friends and family.

Lara George, Musician Personally, I would say that it is a season of love and a time to reach out to other people. Christmas time is going to be fun with my family. For me, it is going to be a peaceful and quiet time too because I just had a baby girl. So you can see that unlike other Christmas, I can’t afford to stress myself at all.

•Wunmi Aboderin

Caleb Olumese, Gov’nor Coliseum Compliments of the season to all our friends and Nigerians.

Presently, I am not in Lagos but I will be coming back to make sure that I spend the yuletide with my family.

Oluwatoyin Alausa It is a season packed with a lot of activities. I have a couple of events that I will be attending but my family comes first in all of these arrangements. I use this opportunity to say happy Christmas to all my fans out there.

•Lara George

•Caleb Olumese

•Azeezat Allen

•Oluwatoyin Alausa

•Oby Edozien

Gloria Ogwu, Nollywood Costumier Well, Christmas is in the air already. I will spend it with the one and only man in my life, Kola.

Azeezat Allen, musician Waoh! That is interesting.

Well, I will be spending it at work, I have a lot to do in my studio and it is going to take a lot of time. I have a lot of planning and activities and I have drawn up my schedule already. I am working on some of my tracks and I want my fans to get the best when it finally comes out.

‘Give us his remains’ •Continued from Page 55

had always wanted to be a uniform man. In his younger days, he would tell his friends to queue and salute him. He called himself Yemi Olopa. His father-inlaw is a retired naval officer. He just finished another course in Jaji and was due for another promotion. He was not a child destined to die young. Even when Boko Haram was killing people he didn’t die. How come he died in this manner?”

Shocking way to hear of a son’s death The father, Mr. Solomon Sowole, simply said “It is rather unfortunate. Around 3.30pm on Saturday I got announcement of the crash on radio, while I was with some friends. I was afraid because he told me that he was going to Warri and I was wondering why Bayelsa. Later one of his younger ones told me that one of his friends called and asked after me. So, l became suspicious. The next morning, the worst was confirmed through newspaper headlines review (Koko inu iwe iroyin).

“I didn’t discourage him when he decided to be a pilot.

While at the Nigeria Defence

•(Right): The late Yemi with family members during his wedding ceremony.

•(L-R): The late Yemi with his wife and parents at their traditional wedding

Academy (NDA), when he sustained injuries during training and he told me, I encouraged him more. He was determined and even picked to serve in the Nigeria Navy after the training.”

Since the unfortunate incident last weekend, the three-storey building residence of the Sowoles at Iyana-Ipaja area of Lagos State has grown to be an unusual attraction for people both known and unknown by the fam-

years ago. “He was always coming to me that he wanted to join the force. I was the one that bought the form for him at N500 then and even looked for a senior officer to help him to sign it. I liked his zeal and even rapid growth in the profession, only to for him to be cut off at his prime.”

Wasiu Ajani, a resident of the area said the whole area was thrown into pandemonium when the news of the crash hit

ily. Friends and relations from far and near gather on a daily basis to commiserate with the Sowoles on the death of their son, who was loved by both old and young in the area.

Among the sympathisers, Mrs. Christiana Adebayo who is a teacher at the Command Children School, Yaba said she was most pained by the death of the promising young man whom she collected the NDA form for few

them. “Everyone in this area both old and young could not but help share in this family’s grieve. Yemi was an easy-going chap, right from his younger days.”

For Adetutu Adebisi, what would have been a happy reunion with the family after 20 years turned out to be in grief as the enthusiasm of seeing an old family friend was taken over by grief. “It is sad that we are meeting again •Continued on Page 57

Life

THE NATION ON SUNDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2012

•Area view of Traffic at Alapere Bus-stop;

57

Photo: OLUSEGUN RAPHEAL

Another season of madness on Lagos roads

‘We want his remains’

6

Christmas season is always associated with the bustle of fun and commerce. But Lagosians are finding that moving around the metropolis is no task for the faint-hearted due to its peculiar traffic congestion, Joe Agbro Jr., Segun Akanbi, and Daniel Akinotan report

U

SUALLY the streets of Lagos become chaotic during festive seasons. This year, the metropolis is literally going through a traffic hell. In different parts of the city during the scorching of the sun or the cool breeze of nightfall, vehicular movement creeps at a snail’s pace. Though, the city has always been familiar with traffic jams, some residents think this is unprecedented.

“All through the time I’ve known Lagos, I can say this year’s traffic would be the worst,” said Musibau Adeboyejo, a welder who works at Apapa. “Everywhere I go, the roads are blocked.”

Apart from the fervour of Christmas and New Year shopping, some residents also opine that the recent introduction and enforcement of the Lagos Traffic Law seemed to have compounded the perennial Lagos Traffic jams.

Indeed, the traffic congestion seems to have affected most parts of Lagos. And confirming this is Femi Akanni, one of the hosts on Lagos Traffic Radio, who said the traffic has increased drastically on every route.

As someone who should know, he said; “There are a lot of factors responsible for it. Goods coming in and out of Lagos: people are buying rice, turkey. And most of all these trucks do not follow traffic signs. And they break down, hence contributing a lot to the traffic situation.”

With shopping sprees going on in Lagos, it is hardly a surprise that the traffic jams are more intense around areas characterised by huge buying and selling.

Even the traffic lights do little to alleviate the traffic gridlock. Along the Ikorodu Road, at most times of the day, it is a long stretch of cars.

Around the Jibowu bus-stop, the traffic light seems to always be the cause of delay. This affects motorists and passengers on that portion of the road.

Raphael James who lives around Ebutte-Metta finds solace with parking his car and hopping on a motorbike to go home. “Traffic is always my problem anytime I am going back to my house,” he said. “This always affects my movement even when I’am in hurry to some places around Lagos. Sometimes, it has become a usual thing for me to park my car somewhere at one corner and I take motorcycle down to where am going to make sure I am not late for my appointment.”

Also, Kunle Abodunrin, a commercial bus driver plying Mushin and Oyingbo, said, “when there is no traffic I go to and fro at least three trips in the evening time. But, this time around, I blame myself for working, because the traffic is tough to cope with. All my passengers always complain about the heat when we are in traffic.”

In some other parts of Lagos, road repairs and improvements have obstructed a smooth flow of traffic, often leading to gridlock. This is the situation which drivers and passengers plying the Mile 12/Ikorodu section of the Ikorodu expressway find themselves as that portion of the road is being widened to accommodate the BRT bus lanes. On the Lagos-Badagry axis, especially at the Mile 2 area, the construction of the light rail project has increased the perennial traffic on that route. Also, bits of construction on roads such as Capitol Road, Agege as well as Simbiat Abiola Street and Kodesoh Street in Ikeja have contributed to traffic snarl in those areas. Same is the case around the Ile-Epo bus-stop

on the Lagos-Abeokuta expressway, which has a hellish snarl.

At Volks bus-stop, commuters spend roughly one hour held down to the traffic as a result of pot-hole ridden roads around there. So hectic is the traffic that some passengers now resort to trekking to get to their destination on time or to hop on another bus to complete their journey.

Austin who lives at Agbara and works at Apapa said, “I have to leave home as early as 5:30am so as to beat the traffic when going in the morning to get to work before the resumption time.” At the close of work, he said, “on getting to VOLKS, I trek past the traffic jam and enter another bus to my destination. If not so, I will get home late in the night.”

Some criminals have also taken advantage of this situation to perpetrate their ugly acts. But, Austin said, “you just have to walk smart and be focused on where you are going to.”

The traffic logjam has also increased transport fares in the city, on some routes as high as 100%. Giving a reason for that, a commercial driver who plies the Iyana-Ipaja/Oshodi route and gave his name as Tunde said, “for the past two weeks, the go-slow on the road is much. And we have to make up for it.”

However, some Lagosians finger the Lagos Traffic law as also contributory to the traffic quagmire. Only in October, the Lagos State government following the enactment of the Traffic Law enforced the restriction on the activities of commercial motorcyclists to the inner streets. This move while it checked the excesses of the motorcyclists somewhat intensified the state’s transport situation.

But, could the restriction on Okadas be largely responsible? Obviously, some Lagosians believe so.

“If there were Okadas (commercial

motorcycles) around, the crowd you’re seeing here would not be up to this,” said Justina Akpedeyi as she waited at Oshodi for a bus to convey her home to Agege.

The restriction also forced some patrons of the Okadas to resort to other means. While some commuters who didn’t own cars were forced to use other means of transportation to move around, others who owned their personal cars turned to theirs. “No doubt, this decision has increased the number of cars competing for the roads,” said a driver. “If the Okadas were moving, I know I won’t be out driving to and fro work every day.”

At the best of times, Lagos traffic can be horrific during rush hours. But with the heavy shopping people typically engage in during the yuletide, the traffic situation is just so chaotic.

“I wish I had not brought my car,” said Mrs. Kemi Anibaba who recalled how last Tuesday she spent more than four hours on a trip from her house in Abule-Egba to the Yaba market. “Ordinarily, it (the trip) doesn’t take up to an hour during mid-day. I really don’t know what happened that day, but I know anything that takes me out of my area now would have to be important. The traffic was just too frustrating.”

And notwithstanding traffic impediments, Lagosians still move. “No matter how difficult it is, we still have to prepare for the Christmas and New Year,” said Mrs. Anibaba.

The Corps Marshal and Chief Executive of the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC), Osita Chidoka has advocated public enlightenment on how to cope with the traffic situation during this yuletide. With this mind, Lagos residents seem prepared for a gruelling time on the roads.

•Aderonke •Continued from Page 56

this way after so many years”, lamented the elder sister of the deceased, Idowu Kalejaiye nee Sowole.

Adebisi continued, “I saw a comment on the crash on Facebook, though I never knew Yemi joined the Navy. Though there can be more than one Yemi Sowole, but the comment read that he went to St. Peters Unity School, Akure and younger brother to Olajide Sowole, it then dawned on me that the late Yemi was one of the Sowoles that we grew up together and that was how I traced them back to their family residence.”

What a sad irony and reunion?

58

Your HEALTH THE NATION ON SUNDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2012

Signs that food is contaminated

Holidays and food poisoning

...a word of caution

The festive season is here with excitement and merrymaking in the air. Parties in nearly every household and on every street are a delight to look forward to but if care is not taken, a savoury meal could poison your tummy and ruin your holidays. Rita Ohai writes.

Ways to avoid and treat food poisoning

BUSINESS

59

THE NATION ON SUNDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2012

Nigerian graduates unemployable— ITF boss

T

• From left: Director, Pharmaceutical Services, Lagos State Ministry of Health, Dr (Mrs.) Moyosore Adejumo, State Team Leader, PATHS2, Lagos, Mrs. Bisi Tugbobo, Logistics Implementation Support Officer, PATHS2, Lagos, Mr. Sanusi Saheed, Medical Officer, Kosofe Local Government, Dr (Mrs.) Bola Abejide, Strengthening System Logistics Officer, PATHS2,Pharm. Oluwafunmito Adeyanju and Director, Medical Stores Oshodi, Pharm.

Ruth Olarewaju, during the roll-out of drugs by PATHS2 under the Drug Revolving Fund programme of the DFID to public health facilities in Lagos recently.

PHOTOS: MUYIWA HASSAN

HE high rate of unemployed graduates in the country is due to a number of factors, chief among which is the lack vocational training as well as establishment of skill acquisition schemes to complement the few jobs that are available, Prof. Longmas Sambo Wapmuk, Director General, Industrial Training Fund (ITF), has said.

The ITF boss who spoke exclusively with The Nation in Abuja recently expressed dismay that the job crisis in the country may have been compounded because many companies are either closing shops or relocating their businesses outside the shores of this country.

“With the increase in the number of tertiary institutions and interest of Nigerians to acquire higher education cer-

By Bukola Afolabi

tificates, thousands are graduated every year. Unfortunately, job placement for the great number of graduates is becoming increasingly difficult with the downturn of the nation’s economy which is causing many companies to go moribund. Besides, the harsh economic condition and insecurity is also making some foreign countries to pull out.”

To get around this challenge, the don stressed the need for skills acquisition in addition to academic training, which in his opinion will stand the prospective graduate in good stead.

Besides, he said the Federal Government, as part of efforts to address this challenge, has established some agencies with a mandate to provide jobs and skills set for those who may not readily

succeed in the job search.

He said: “You see, the creation of several government parastatals, agencies and programmes whose primary objectives are to assist acquisition of employable skills and create employment opportunities are evidences of this concern. The Nigerian government adopted entrepreneurship development schemes such as Small and Medium Enterprise Equity Investment Scheme (SMEEIS) set up by 12 commercial banks, Directorate of Food, Roads and Rural Infrastructure (DFFRI), the Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC). You also have Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET). TVET is expected to prepare the youth for gainful employment and entrepreneurial development.”

Why we can’t fund small enterprises—BOI boss

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HE lack of funding which has hampered the growth of small scale enterprises is as a result of insufficient funding from the Federal Government to the Bank of Industry (BOI).

The Managing Director of BOI, Ms Evelyn Oputu, made this declaration during a recent interview with The Nation.

The bank, she insisted, has not been given any fund by the Federal Government for

small businesses, adding that the responsibility has been given to the commercial banks to fund small scale industries.

“The Federal Government gave BOI no fund at all to intervene in that scheme. The Central Bank of Nigeria in its role decided to put funds back into the system in order to ensure that commercial banks continue to lend to businesses in Nigeria and it found that

BOI was the only institution that it could use to intervene in this scheme. As BOI, our mandate was quite clear and terms of the arrangement were clear. The commercial banks were to give us government security, we are to monitor them carefully and to ensure that the businesses actually do exist and lend to them and to jointly monitor these businesses with the central bank “she said.

Federal Mortgage Bank to build 6,000 S a way of contributFund (NHF) loan by almost 35 ing to the Nigerian houses in 2013 per cent and collection has

A

• From left: DJ Jimmy Jatt, Mr Innocent Oboh, Head of Marketing, Intercontinental Distillers, Chioma Along, Brand Manager, Veleta Fruit wine, Yemi Sax, famous saxophonist, at the Intercontinental Distillers Jazz Night with Yemi Sax in Lagos recently

Dons task cartographers on skills acquisition

T

O ensure qualitative service delivery at all times, cartographers and other allied professionals need to continuously update themselves with new skills set and training.

This was the submission of experts who spoke at the joint annual national conference and workshop organised by the Geoinformation Society of Nigeria (GEOSON) and Nigeria Cartographic Association which held at the Regional Centre for Training in Aerospace Survey (RECTAS) Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) Ile–Ife, recently.

In his welcome address, the Executive Director and President of the two Associations, Prof, Isi Ikhuoria, while acknowledging the presence of the members of National Executive as well as the local organising committee, described the 2012

edition of the conference as unique because of the different interface and discussion sessions geared towards empowering the members.

Expatiating, Prof.

Ikhuoria further advocated for professionalism among cartographers, to, as he said, avoid disparities between them and their counterparts in other professions, both in federal and state levels of government.

Echoing similar sentiments, co-organiser, Prof.

Olubodun Ayeni, stressed the need for cartographers and allied professionals to adopt new technologies in data collection, process to foster accuracy before and after undertaking a project.

The Minister of Works, Mike Onolememen, the special guest on the occasion who was represented by the Surveyor General of

the Federation, Prof Peter Nwilo, lauded the both Associations for initiative even as he enjoined the to build a synergy of cooperation among themselves to ensure quality service delivery among members.

housing stock, and the economy, the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN) will from next year build 6,000 houses across the country.

Speaking when the Deputy Senate President, Senator Ike Ekweremadu, paid a courtesy visit to the Federal Mortgage Bank in Abuja, the Managing Director of Federal Mortgage Bank, Mr Garba Ya’u Kumo, disclosed that the FMBN is “now building on a pilot bases about 1000 houses in each of the six geopolitical zones. We

From Nduka Chiejina (Assistant Editor), Abuja

will start with Abuja and it will take off by February.”

The pilot housing programme, he said, “will be a self sustaining settlement with electricity, water, roads and all the conveniences of life. If it works very well, we intend to replicate it in all 36 states.”

According to him, since his team came on board in 2010, they have been able “to increase the stock of estate development loan by 30 per cent , the National Housing

Seplat donates bus, N1.3m to school

F

OR coming tops at the recently concluded 2012 Pearls Quiz Competition, Ufua Memorial Group of School, Uromi, Edo State, got a star prize of N1.3million in addition to a bus donated by Seplat Petroleum Development Company Ltd, operator of NNPC Joint Venture in Nigeria.

The students who represented the winning school were Chinyere Abbattam, Khafayat Ogundeko and Rahmat Usidebhofo. They defeated the University Preparation Secondary

School Benin in the runners up to emerge the first.

However, the Abinoba Secondary School Agbor and Bethel Secondary School also of Agbor struggled for the third place but were outdone

by Bethel Secondary School Agbor in Delta State.

Speaking at the occasion, Managing Director of the company, Austin Avuru, represented by the General Manager, Corporate Affairs and Business Development Manager, Dr. Chioma Nwachukwu, said Seplat and their Joint Venture partners

were happy with the students’ performance at the quiz competition which had over 1740 schools in both Edo and Delta States participating.

According to her, her company initiated the competition to promote academic excellence among secondary schools across the country.

Receiving the prizes on behalf of the Ufua Memorial Group of Schools, Akinmodun Matthew thanked Seplat for the initiative while praising his students for a hard fought battle.

gone up by almost 100 per cent from N750 million to almost N1.5 billion.”

States that are not contributing, he added, have now come on board “and not more than three or four states are now left and all of them have given their word that they will soon join” he told the Senate President.

The FMBN under his watch, he explained, has “been able to put in place some basic things that will now improve mortgage in Nigeria. What we did is to encourage the informal sector to have houses through cooperative societies.”

The mortgage bank, he said, is working on giving the cooperative societies under the informal sector estate development loans, “and we also provide them with the informal sector mortgage loan for them to be able to acquire their houses and most of the states have keyed into the programme and we are making a very substantial progress in that direction.”

Responding, Ekweremadu pledged the support of the upper legislative chamber to the Federal Mortgage Bank in its effort at providing affordable housing to all Nigerians.

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THE NATION ON SUNDAY DECEMBER 23, 2012

INSIDE BUSINESS

CHRISTMAS EXPENDITURE

F

OR most businesses whether in the public or organised private sector, Christmas this year, in a manner of speaking, will not have its usual fun, frills and thrills.

Reason: most big businesses around, hitherto known for heavy spending usually at this time of the year have all planned and based their annual yuletide package on a shoestring budget.

Blue chip companies such as banks, oil and gas, telecoms, construction, manufacturing, among several others, are putting up appearances rather than devoting resources on expensive gift items for the yuletide while others are spending little or nothing at all.

Our correspondent who visited some bank headquarters on the island observed that not many of the banks are investing much in Christmas decorations unlike the previous year as majority of them, it was learnt, have had to make do with used ones of the previous year.

Charity giving It is, however, instructive to note that some of the banks devoted a slice of their budget for spending during the yuletide as part of fulfilling their corporate social responsibility.

Many of them like First Bank Plc, Fidelity, Diamond, GTB, UBA, Zenith, Sterling and others definitely score high in this regard.

For instance, Zenith Bank Plc, with headquarters on Ajose Adeogun Street, beautified the entire stretch of the street starting from the roundabout, with the bank logo dotting the landscape.

Also at the Lekki Phase one roundabout, where Zenith has a botanical garden, the place was a cynosure of eyes as some tourists were seen taking photographs besides the roundabout just as many passersby at the bus stops stole quick glances at the massive Xmas architecture glittering in maroon and cream colors, which depicts the brand.

Attempts to speak with Akin Olaniyan, Head of Corporate Affairs at Zenith Bank, to shed light on what may have motivated the bank’s spending for the yuletide were futile as he neither returned calls nor text messages sent to him.

But a staff of Zenith who asked not to be named because he is not authorised to speak with the press said it is the bank’s policy to give charity during the yuletide.

Huge industry around Xmas A huge industry has been built around Christmas as many people get gifts like hampers, clothes, shoes and jewelries. For some, it is the season to buy new stock while for others, it is the period to empty their stock by selling them at cheaper prices in preparation for new ones that will come in the New Year.

Lull in businesses During Christmas world over, financial spending is always on the high side. Many people, having worked throughout the year, spend all their savings on fun and merriment during Christmas.

However, the dwindling economic fortune of many who can hardly spare disposable income these days is gradually having negative effects on the celebration of Christmas.

Since the second quarter of the year, many Nigerians have been groaning under the harsh economic condition with daily lamentation of ‘no money in town’.

As such, with Christmas celebration just few days away, many

Not business as usual for corporate spenders The yuletide season is a time of the year when many corporate bodies deploy resources in order to reward staff, customers’ loyalty as well as their host communities. But the general lull in the economy which has had a rippling effect on different businesses has adversely affected the budget for Christmas this year, report Ibrahim Apekhade Yusuf and Bukola Afolabi

•Assorted gifts for Christmas

might not enjoy this year’s Christmas as much as they would have wanted.

A cross-section of sales reps and attendants at Ikeja axis and environs who spoke with The Nation lamented low patronage as few customers patronise them, unlike what it used to be.

Mrs. Funmilayo Adewale who has a shop at Alade market, Ikeja, said in the last one week, she was only able to sell 10 hampers as against 25 she used to sell few days to Christmas.

“This year’s sales have not been encouraging. For the past one week, sales have not been moving as it should be. You can imagine that I have only sold 10 hampers in the last three weeks before Christmas. People are complaining there is no money. I have a customer that used to buy five hampers at the same time. This year he

bought only three and when I asked him why, he said he’s trying to manage the money he has. The goods are there but where are the customers?” she lamented.

For Victor Afolabi, a cloth merchant on Lagos Island, the complain is much the same. “Every year, I travel to China two months before Christmas to buy goods. I sell them all of them at least a week before Christmas but as you can see, four days to Christmas, I am yet to finish selling all of them this year.

This year, business is not the way it used to be. We can only hope that the situation change before January 1.”

Even those who work in corporate organisations are not left out.

Sharing her experience, Alero Temisan, a staff of an oil servicing company with headquarters in Port Harcourt, recalls with glee the “wow” treat members of staff got

last year during the yuletide.

“Last Christmas, I got a Blackberry gift from my company. This is besides the retreat we all enjoyed at the Obudu Ranch for two weeks.

I have fond memories of last year’s festivities,” Alero enthused.

But regrettably, she says this year is the worse the company has ever had as no budget was approved for hampers or leisure trips, because the company is passing through some hard times.

“Things are a little bit hard up for the company. The business outlook for this year has been anything but favourable to us. We have a lot of debt overhang among other challenges. So, naturally we don’t expect anything from the company not even a bonus of any sorts,” Alero stated.

Abimbola Oluwasegun who works in a commercial bank is also on the same page with Alero.

“What I realised is that many people are trying to reduce their spending. Today is December 21, just four days to Christmas and I have only received two bags of rice and two hampers as gift. Two years ago, by this time, I would have received four bags of rice and at least two hampers. Even some of my friends are complaining of the same thing. I think the economy is biting hard on many Nigerians, even the rich ones are complaining,” she recalled.

Echoing similar sentiments, Gbenga Adeleye, the CEO of an indigenous shipping company, equally lamented the effects the economy is having on the celebration of this year’s Christmas.

“As a matter of fact, this year I am only able to give my staff half bags of rice each unlike the one bag I used to give them. The reality on ground is that we need to start cutting down on our spending because no one knows where Nigeria is going. Christmas will come and go, so it does not make sense to spend lavishly just because you want to give gifts because the economic situation of Nigeria as it is now no longer allows for that.”

A visit to some shopping malls, supermarket, local street markets in Lagos metropolis and its environs showed a lot of wares on display but few shoppers.

Small mercies However, not everyone is affected by the low sales.

While some are lamenting low patronage, there are others who still record a reasonable patronage and literally smile to the bank.

Talk of little mercies.

Comfort Chinemere, who sells household items at the Warehouse Market along Apapa/ Oshodi, said she has enjoyed high patronage in the last one week. “I thank God sales have been good.

At least people are coming to buy. You know there are some people who will wait till end of the year to buy what they want at cheaper price. There are some who buy and resell. In the last two weeks, I have been selling well and I hope it continues like that till New Year.”

Likewise, Prince Azuka, a phone seller in the same market, said sales have been good for him in spite of the economic situation. “At least, I have been selling four phones a day in the last one week which was not like that five months ago.”

Esther Jones, who sells used clothes at the famous Boundary market, located in Ajegunle, an uptown district in Lagos, usually has a palatable experience at Christmas.

“Yes, Christmas is good for me.

Sales have been good because people have been coming. Some parents who do not have money to buy new clothes and shoes for their children come here to buy used ones which are still in good condition.

This is the period I make more money. As a matter of fact, I do travel to Cotonou twice in a week to buy because sales are moving very fast and by the time I come back, lots of customers would have been waiting for me.”

THE NATION ON SUNDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2012

INSIDE BUSINESS

61

How USAID is assisting vulnerable communities in Africa Nancy Lindborg is Assistant Administrator, United States Agency for International Development, (USAID). Just back from a trip to Burkina Faso, she spoke from Washington D.C in a teleconference with selected journalists within the African Regional Media Hub comprising Nigeria, Ethiopia, and from across the continent on sundry issues bordering on strategies of building resilience among regions ravaged by disaster and mired by poverty. Ibrahim Apekhade Yusuf was there

•Lindborg

C

AN you bring us up to speed on the outcome of your recent visit to Burkina Faso?

I have just been in Burkina Faso where I was with my second visit, third visit to the Sahel actually, this last year. And it follows a number of visits I have made to the Horn as well, as USAID has really pursued a strategy of resilience. Last week two events occurred. The first is that we released our first ever policy on resilience called ‘Building Resilience to Recurrent Crisis’, which really signals the ways in which USAID is doing business differently to build resilience in areas where you have chronic poverty buffeted by recurring shocks and crisis. I was in Burkina Faso to join colleagues from regional organisations, countries of the region and the European Union (EU) to launch something called the Global Alliance for Building Resilience, and what that does is enable donors and international development partners to align our resources and approaches with regional organisations in support of country plans for building resilience. This mirrors an organisation that we launched last April in Nairobi, similarly with international partners and regional organisations aligning resources to support country plans to build resilience. All of this has been galvanised by the last year and a half of really devastating droughts both in the Horn of Africa that affected more than 13 million people and then followed quickly in the Sahel by a drought that affected some 18 million people. In both regions, what has become very painfully clear, is that with the impact of climate change moving these cycles of drought from what used to be every decade or so, they are coming faster and faster every two or three years.

And the most vulnerable communities in those regions are simply not able to recover. So they are losing their assets, they are falling deeper into debt, there are persistent stubborn rates of malnutrition and we are not connecting our significant infusions of humanitarian assistance with ongoing development efforts.

So with this resilience launch and with these organisations, both in the Horn and the Sahel, that enable us to join in alliances with development partners to align resources and efforts with regional partners to support country plans. The goal is to reduce the number of people who are persistently falling into crisis, who need humanitarian assistance and to enable them to get on the pathway for development. This complements President Obama’s “Feed the Future Initiative”, which is an effort to really bring additional resources and investment, particularly in agriculture which is so important for com-

munities in Africa to move forward into greater development and prosperity. So taken together, this is the United States’ commitment to really make a difference for the most vulnerable across the continent and connect to the possibilities for growth and prosperity.

Nigeria has been ravaged by floods in recent times. You find that the government did some interventions which obviously have not been enough. What is USAID doing along that line?

Our whole resilience policy very much builds on work that we have done with disaster risk reduction as well as some of the adaptation work from global climate change. We know that these kinds of disasters are going to keep happening and so the emphasis is on that risk reduction and that preparedness, but linked to the kinds of approaches that can help those affected communities maintain their development gains and move forward on growth. So it will look different in each country and for Nigeria, like other parts of both the Sahel and the Horn, one of the keys is making sure that at the local level, people are prepared, that there are the kinds of government policies that enable that overall risk reduction.

With regards to food insecurity, there are fears that next year we will have a huge famine in the country. I want to know what USAID is planning to do to help assist the communities that are likely to be affected by this crisis.

In Nigeria, you know, about 20 years ago USAID invested in a system called FEWSNEt and along with CILSS, which I believe you are familiar with, which is headquartered in Ouagadougou, we watch very closely with market data, crop production, indicators of what food availability might be in a given area. We have food prepositioned in the region. Last year for example, we were able to both move food in as well as programmes that emphasise cash and vouchers, so that we don’t disrupt markets where they are working. So we are very vigilant at looking at what the indicators are for future deepened food insecurity and have contingency plans ready to trigger if they are necessary. And one of the big changes over the last say five years, is we have put a greater and greater emphasis on market-based assistance programmes. So although we do have commodities prepositioned in the region, it is very important not to undermine or disrupt those markets that are functioning. In which case we can use cash and/or voucher kind of programmes.

The assistance to the country, could you quantify it in monetary terms or is it mainly technical assistance?

You know, we will have to get back to you with that. The focus areas for our resilience strategy right now have

been in Kenya, Ethiopia, Burkina Faso, and Niger. We do have a large programme in Nigeria and we have provided some regional humanitarian assistance, but it is less affected than other parts of the Sahel by the drought last year.

Are there efforts made by USAID to boost the green revolution in Africa to grow indigenous crops? For example, Nigeria is the highest producer of cassava although we are not the highest exporter of cassava. So is there anything that USAID is doing to help Nigeria use its indigenous crops to boost food security? That is one.

The other question I also want to ask has to do with biotechnology.

I know a lot is being done to use biotechnology to put food security in the area of research. Is there anything also being done by USAID to collaborate with Nigeria to ensure there is food security in the country?

You know, I would just say that overall our Feed the Future initiative, which was announced by President Obama, is very much focused on ensuring that there is increased emphasis on food security and really looking at how do we improve production using local capacity. And so far, Feed the Future has helped 1.8 million food producers adopt improved technologies or management practices that can lead to more resilient crops, to higher yields, to increased incomes and as part of that, the initiative has also reached about 9 million children through nutrition programmes. So this is a companion to the resilience approach, understanding that when communities and families are hit by shocks, you can undermine those development gains. So making them more resilient enables them to then work on these approaches of improved

F

BN Capital Limited has been awarded the “Best Debt House in Nigeria 2012” for the third year running at the EMEA Finance Africa Banking Awards.

The African Banking Awards is regarded as the industry standard for banking excellence. FBN Capital won the 2010 and 2011 editions of the “Best Debt House”, and was again recognized as “a leader of local currency issuance in Nigeria”, having raised a combined N58bn for Ondo, Ekiti and Benue State Governments in the 12 months to June 2012 alone. It was also applauded for supporting corporate borrowers, particularly Lafarge Cement Wapco Nigeria where the sum of N11bn was

technologies, benefit from the kind of research that comes up with drought resistant varieties as well as tackle some of these really important nutritional issues.

In northern Nigeria, we have the case of the drought, which is spreading with regard to the boundaries that you have with the Sahara desert. Are there projects, or is there anything you are doing, you said you are going to work with farmers to also improve their resilience, so that the soil could be fertile by either tree planting or working with local farmers. Because not all the food produced in Nigeria is by local farmers. Is there a project or anything you are working with for local farmers in Nigeria?

Throughout the Sahel region, one of the most really exciting developments is the re-greening approach, which is very much about small farmers doing the kind of cropping and tree planting that revitalizes the soil, makes it more fertile, increases food production. We have specific emphasis on working with small farmers, both because they are often the most vulnerable, they are most affected by these cycles of drought, they are often highly indebted, and by the way they are often women, and through a combination of improved crop variety, like the Moringa tree for example. When I was in both Niger and Burkina Faso recently I visited a number of women who were growing Moringa in their kitchen gardens which, if you are not familiar with it, it is a very high yield, highly nutritious small tree that enables these women both to feed their children very nutritious meals as well as market the rest of it. So working with small farmers in a way that both reduces their vulnerability and in fact takes them onto a more productive pathway, and by the way, has climate benefits. If you look at the regreening initiative for example, this is a very important approach that combines a number of these key issues, addresses the risks and moves the farmers forward. This then can link up with the kind of approaches that we focus on in Feed the Future, which is the improved seed varieties and ensuring that there are im-

proved markets. You are absolutely right to ask about the small farmers, though. They are key.

With the increasing level of food crisis in Africa, do you think the region will be able to attain their first Millennium Development Goal of extreme hunger and poverty and what do you think African leaders can do to help attain agricultural and food security?

You know, I actually think that we have an extreme moment of opportunity here in Africa. There is a recent Economist survey. It says that six of the 10 fastest growing economies of this last decade were in Sub-Saharan Africa. And looking ahead, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) predicts that in the next five years seven of the 10 fastest growing economies will also be in Africa. The challenge is ensuring that those gains are not undercut each time a shock hits- a drought, a flood, a food price increase and also ensuring that the most vulnerable are included in these development gains. A recent study at the World Bank notes that the drought in Kenya cost it, the Kenyan economy, $12 billion. So it is important that the kind of risk mitigation measures, that the kind of adaptation approaches are very much a part of a country plan and that they are thinking about including those most vulnerable communities, many in fact whom can be an important part of a country’s production. Where I am very hopeful, is that with this international focus and international momentum that we have seen in both the Horn and the Sahel, with the EU, with the U.S. joining forces with other countries in Europe and Japan, the World Bank, most regional entities, and with the country governments that we have this extraordinary alignment and commitment to doing business differently and to building resilience. Not just providing humanitarian assistance but connecting that to development programs so that we can realize the kind of gains and support the future of Africa as a real growth leader. But it needs to be inclusive growth.

FBN Capital wins EMEA awards raised in the local debt markets.

According to Chris Moore, Publisher and CEO of EMEAFinance Magazine, FBN Capital has been at the forefront of bringing Nigerian sovereign, sub-sovereign and corporate debt to the attention of international investors and the larger global financial community. Last year they completed N1.7trn issuance for the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria, and worked on Nigeria’s debt of US$500mn Eurobond issued in January 2011. Bayelsa State Government’s N50bn issuance, which was recognized as EMEA Finance’s Best Bond in Africa in our Achievement Awards 2010, is another landmark transaction delivered by the firm.

“In previous years like the period from 2009 to 2010, FBN Capital was an adviser on seven of nine bond issuances. The Firm’s outstanding work in the debt area has seen it win a number of additional EMEA Finance house and deal awards including our ‘Best Local Currency Debt House in EMEA’ in our Achievement Awards 2011", Moore noted.

Speaking on the award, FBN Capital Deputy Managing Director, Mr. Taiwo Okeowo, said the award is a tribute to FBN Capital’s strength in the Debt Capital Markets space, and a testimony to its strong deep understanding of client’s needs and investor preferences.

62

Business

THE NATION ON SUNDAY DECEMBER 23, 2012

‘Consumer protection is our collective responsibility’ O

NE would have expected that the Consumer Rights Protection (CPC) would be at the borders at least to be able to apprehend some of these unscrupulous businessmen who import substandard products into the country but this is not so. Why? At Consumer Protection Commission, we have our job caught out for us. The Commission’s mandate is to checkmate the sales and distribution of fake products already in the country and not to stop them from entering the country through the borders. The responsibility of making sure such banned and substandard goods does not find its way into the country lies with the Nigerian Customs Service and Immigration Service, two agencies that are situated at the country’s numerous borders.

At the border, we have the Customs and Immigration. I am not sure if the Standard Organisation of Nigeria, SON is there. The issue of border is to prevent goods from coming in because those goods that are coming illegally will be checked. We cannot be at the border because our concern as directed by the government is to prevent their sales when they get into the country. We can only catch people within the country on their way to the market to sell these goods once we have a tip off.

I want to find out what you are doing in the oil and gas sector especially the filling stations because recently, those selling fuel are reported to be demanding for N200 from every buyer before they sell fuel whereas your Commission is expected to protect consumers?

Sometimes it is due to desperation. People do pay such money in the rush to buy fuel. We all know that even owners of these stations are not even aware of such demands from attendants. It is wrong. Well, it is an issue and it is not an issue. It is not an issue in the sense that it is not all the people that are doing illegal thing.

If we (CPC) happen to be there and we catch them, we discipline them appropriately.

Our consumers also have a responsibility.

They should be on the queue whenever they want to buy fuel. Those that pay that money are those who try to leave the line and get in front of others. In other words, they shunt!

No. Even at NNPC stations, people complain that even attendants don’t sell to car owners but they

Mrs. Ify Umenyi sits atop as Director General, Consumer Protection Commission (CPC), an agency saddled with the responsibility of enforcing consumer rights. In this interview with Bukola Afolabi she speaks on the challenges and prospects her job offers

•Umenyi

INTERVIEW prefer to sell to those with kegs and even demand for gratification from prospective buyers?

I am using this opportunity to charge the Lagos office because I have not heard of this situation before now. They should carry out investigations and go with law enforcement officials because it is the only way they will know what is going on.

The president of Nigeria Liquefied Gas said there are

fake gas cylinders in circulation. What danger does this pose?

We are working with SON on that because they have the equipment to check on those gas cylinders. I heard complain about the issue of these cylinders and I know our quality department had some discussions with SON though I cannot tell you precisely what they are doing. When we get such complaints, what we do is to get regulators like SON that has the expertise to carry out investigation.

What are the differences in your duties with that of

“CPC works with NAFDAC, SON and other regulators. We contribute to the regulations that are being made. We carry out those regulations. Governments have set the machinery to ensure the protection of products. The standard body conducts investigation. The end result is to ensure the protection of consumers”

other regulating bodies like NAFDAC and SON? They have the responsibility to make sure they have standard for every product. SON set the minimum required standard, you can go above it but you cannot go below.

NAFDAC is a sector regulating pharmaceutical products, foods and drinks.

They set the rules that guide both the production and sale. CPC works with NAFDAC, SON and other regulators. We contribute to the regulations that are being made. We carry out those regulations.

Governments have set the machinery to ensure the protection of products. The standard body conducts investigation. The end result is to ensure the protection of consumers.

Government has a programme that covers 774 local governments and it is called Information and Response Centres. It is a centre where consumers could run to and get information on whatever products and services are required and at the same time report whatever they experience in the market.

Beyond Talent

By Adetayo Okusanya Email: adetayookusanya@hotmail.com

Vision 20/20

T

ODAY is December 9.

We have approximately three more weeks before the year comes to an end. This realization takes me back to the debut of the first Beyond Talent Article, titled “An Adventure Called 2012”, which was published on New Year’s Day 2012.

At the time, I wished I had a crystal ball to tell me what the year had in store for me. I had just quit my job in Corporate America and moved back to Nigeria to live out my entrepreneurial dream. There was no longer the security of a monthly pay cheque and I only had two clients with remote probabilities of repeat business. My corporate and personal brand in the Nigerian market was anemic at best, and I had nothing but faith, hope, passion and talent to go by. I loved it! For me 2012 was an adventure, an opportunity to “create” my future like an artist creates a masterpiece out of a blank canvass. I had no clue what lay ahead or how I would bring to life the vision in my heart.

Now, that road that lay ahead of me on New Year’s Day is now behind me. Three hundred and forty four days have gone by. How has the universe cooperated with me in achieving my goals? This period, the end of 2012 to the beginning of 2013, should be a season of thankfulness and below are all the reasons why I am personally thankful for 2012.

1. I am thankful to be alive to see today. So many senseless tragedies occurred in 2012, air crashes, road accidents, fires, terrorist attacks, to name a few. I am thankful to have been in good physical and mental health throughout the year.

2. I am thankful for family and friends. What would life be without their love and support? The encouragement of family and friends kept me going throughout the year. The knowledge that there are people who are cheer-leading my dream and invested in my success has been a powerful motivator.

3. I am thankful that I have not travelled alone on this entrepreneurial journey. I found a strategic partner of like mind and passion that has, without reserve, expanded my network, increased my sunshine yellow energy, and taught me how to be more effective in selling.

4. I am thankful for the 400+ delegates whose lives I have had the opportunity to impact. They have helped me to live my dream and I can only hope that I, in turn, inspired them to start living theirs. There are few things that are more rewarding to me, than to hear someone say I made a difference.

5. I am thankful for the 20+ companies that I have had the privilege of providing professional services to in my inaugural year. This number has exceeded my wildest imagination. With each additional company, my track record and brand in the market has been enhanced, and my value proposition validated. It says a lot, when a client comes back for “Round Two”.

6. I am thankful for new experiences and personal growth. This year I added Kenya and South Africa to my list of countries visited. I recall how my new Kenyans friends kept refilling my glass, despite my objections, until I finally decided to leave my drink untouched.

I also became a newspaper columnist and the first female Licensed Practitioner for Insights Discovery® in West Africa.

What has your 2012 adventure been like? Think back and reflect on all the reasons you have to be thankful. Do you still have a job? Did you escape spending a night in a hospital ward? Did you have a roof over your head, clothes on your back, shoes on your feet and food in your belly? Did you have reasons to laugh? Did you have people who loved and supported you? Did you wake up each morning to the sound of peace, rather than war? Were you able to accomplish some, if not all, of your goals? Did you try something new? Did you invest in yourself? Did you make a difference in someone else’s life? Did someone else make a difference in yours?

2012 is on the verge of ending and it is time to come to terms with it. I put it to you that, though there may have been many disappointments along the way, there are many more reasons you have to be grateful for where you are.

Yes… hindsight is 20/20 vision, however, only those that are living have the benefit of hindsight. If you are reading this article, that is one thing that at least you can be grateful for.

• Okusanya is CEO of ReadinessEdge

63

CONSUMER WATCH With

JILL OKEKE

jillokeke@yahoo.com, 07069429757

THE NATION ON SUNDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2012

Where to find last minute Xmas bargains

•Lagos market scene

W

ITH two days to Christmas most people are still searching for last minute bargains. Everyone loves a deal 'Buy one get one free', 'Buy three for the price of two', 'Pay less get more'. If you have not done your Xmas shopping, not to worry as you still have a chance to do so even till Christmas day as most shops and markets will remain open.

From the market research carried out by Consumer Watch, for the best deals on any kind of drinks, visit your nearest shoprite stores. Most people believe that supermarkets are generally more expensive as one does not have the opportunity to bargain like in the open markets.

However, in this case, it is easier and cheaper to shop.

An array or assortment of drinks are beautifully displayed on the shelves with the price labels. And what more, the Shoprite price is cheaper than other places like Apongbo market noted for their low prices as regards drinks.

A bottle of 750ml Hennessy VSOP cognac sells for N8,999.99 at Shoprite stores but sells between N9,000 and N10,000 at Apongbo and Trade fair markets, otherwise known as Aspenda market. A bottle of 750ml Remy Martins sells for N8,729.99 at Shoprite while the same drink goes for between N9,000 and N9,500 at other places. A bottle of 700ml martel XCognac sells for N2,999.99 at Shoprite but sells for N3,500 outside shoprite.

The same goes for Brandy, Vodka, Tequilla, Whisky, Liqueur, Wine and

other drinks. For instance 700ml Baileys Liqueur cream is N1,979.99 at shoprite but sells for between N2,000 and N3,000 at Agege, Apongbo, Trade fair,andIponri markets.

Amarula Liqueur cream of 750ml goes for N1,699.999 but other shops sell it for about N2,000. A bottle of 750 ml Cask and cream Liqueur (original temptation) sells for N1,999.99 while most other markets and shops sell it for N2,500.00.

Single packs of Five Alive fruit drink cost, N220.00 at shoprite but costs N250,000 in most other shops. Single packs of Chivitafruit drink goes for N230 at Shoprite but sells for higher price outside Shoprite.

75cl plastic bottle of coke, fanta, pepsi, ecetra sell for N89.99k at Shoprite but sell for N100.000 in some super markets and N150.00 in others Consumer Watch also advices shoppers to visit Shoprite for dessert. Freshly baked mince pies, cakes of different flavours and sizes and different ice creams can easily be sourced from Shoprite. The same goes for Xmas pudding. For drinks, dessert we suggest your nearest Shoprite except of course you find a better offer elsewhere. All Shoprite stores will remain open on Christmas day till 3pm.

Cocacola and Pepsi depots are other great places for cheaper soft drinks. The prices one gets here cannot be beaten by any other shop, including Shoprite.

A 24 crate of 35cl soft drink from any coke depot is N920.00 while 24 crate of 50cl soft drink goes for N1,100.00.

12 bottles of 50cl plastic soft drink is N1,100 while 24 cans of any soft drink from coca cola depot is N1,970.

A 12 pack big cartoon of

Five Alive from the depot costs N2,170 while a 12 pack of big bottle Eva table water is sold for N1,000. Outside the depot, the prices are much higher.

For your rice, depending on which part of Lagos State you are residing market survey by Consumer Watch reveals that rice sells cheapest at Daleko market, Ladipo.A bag of 50kg of the most popular rice and the most expensive brands sell for N10,500 at Daleko market but sells as high as N11,000 to N12,000 in other markets.

Other popular brands are Warrior, Mama Africa, Mama Gold, Stallion and American rice. 50kg of any of these brand of rice sell for N9,000 at Daleko market but goes for N9,700.00 in other markets like Agege, Oke-Arin in Lagos Island and Onigbogbo market Maryland.

Vegetable Oil of different brands, suger, baking flour are equally cheaper at Daleko market than in other places. A gallon of 5 liters of kings and Gino vegetable oil sells for N1,700 and N1,600 respectively while in some other shops and markets, they sell for N2,000.00 and N1,900.00.

Also, 5 liters of Laser vegetable oil sells for N2,500 while outside Daleko market the price is N2,700 while 3 liters of Liesure and Sunola vegetable oil sells for N1,500 and N1,400 respectively.

For your vegetable and fruit salad ingredients, Consumer Watch advices you shop at Mile 12, Ketu market that is if you are not averse to open markets. A big basket of fresh tomatoes sells for between N3,800 and N4,000 while the same size of fresh tomatoes is N5,000 at Agege and OkeArin markets.

You get your best deals on yams from Ilepo market at

AbuleEgba or from Mile 12 market Ketu. Otherwise you make do with the markets around your area. At Il epo market AbuleEgba you get yams of any variety you desire and at a very cheap price as this is the major market where most retailers in Lagos come to buy yams.

You are exposed to varieties like the most popular ones among yam lovers like 'Ada Onicha', 'Abuja', 'Benue' 'Kwara', 'sand paper' among others.

Christmas celebrations will not be complete without meat and fish. Depending on the area of Lagos you are residing. However, some people prefer buying live animals in order to get very fresh meat and for children to have fun plucking feathers from the fowl. If not buying frozen chicken and turkey in cartoons is far cheaper. If cartoons are too big, at the big cold depots there are shoppers who are on the look out to share the contents of the cartoon for reasons like, lack of energy for preservation among others.

For fresh beef ecetra, Oko Oba Abattoir at Agege is your best bet. Oko Oba is about the biggest Abattoir in lagos state otherwise you can patronize any other meat shop in your area.

Different sizes of Christmas hampers are displayed all over the place but be careful to check the contents of the baskets before you part with your money.

At Apongbo market Lagos Island, the biggest Xmas hamper called executive hamper sells as high as N15,000 while the medium sells for about N10,000. some of the executive hampers have small electric ovens in them while Continued on Page 64

NUTRITION

Tips

Hot and thirsty? The best and worst things you can drink

W

HAT should you drink when you exercise on a scorching day? Water is the best choice to prevent dehydration, whether you are moderately active or training for a marathon. But if you prefer other popular drinks here are what experts have to say about each.

• Juices and sugared drinks:You will tend to drink more of these flavoured drinks than plain water.

But they take too long for the body to absorb. They are best after you finish exercising.

• Alcoholic drink: These are very dehydrating.

Never drink them before or during exercise. If you are going to drink alcoholic beverage after a work-out, first have two or three large glasses of water.

• Soft drinks: sweetened sodas containcalories and carbonation can cause cramps while exercising.

Iced tea - This can be a good low calorie option however caffein can have a slight dehydrating effect so drink decaffeinated or herbal iced tea.

• Glucose polymer drinks: Ultra fuel and other carbohydrate replacers are the newest sports drinks. They are for people involved in heavy exercise and have about 400 calories in a 16 ounce bottle.

• Electrolyte solutions: Drinking these fluid replacers such as Gatorade, while you exercise will keep you energized. But a 16 ounce bottle contains about 100 calories, while water has no calories.

Live Longer • Every diet soft drink you skip adds an average of 9 seconds to your life.

• Every time you use your seat belt you add an average of 6 seconds to your life.

64

I

THE NATION ON SUNDAY DECEMBER 23 , 2012

Consumer Watch

went to a shop in Ikeja recently and I overheard some ladies booking for Christmas cakes at a whopping cost of N40,000 each. It should be noted that baking cakes at home is cheaper and the end result better. It is even stress free once you get the correct recipes and follow the laid down rules.

For this Xmas try baking your own cake and please do write us and tell us your experience.

Yes, you may be wondering if all cakes can pass for Xmas cakes.

Well my answer is No. There is the everyday cake, but Xmas cake is richer and made more special with the ingredients and even decorations. As it is a festival that is celebrated once in a year, the cake also is bound to be a treat for anyone that is privileged to eat it.

I want to stress again that cake is not for the rich alone as the ingredients are not expensive.

Every family can bake their own cake once you have an oven which can be the gas,electric oven or the village Anthill oven.

Rich fruit Cake Ingredients: 200 g flour, 125g sugar, 4 eggs, 225g currants, 125g raisins, 225 sultanas, 100g mixed peel, 50g glace cherries, 125 margarine, a little milk to mix, 1 teaspoon mixed spice, grated rind and juice of 112 lemon, A pinch of salt.

Method: Creaming method: The fat and sugar, which are in equal proportions are beaten together with a wooden spoon until creamy, and soft. Use a wooden spoon and worklightly.

Xmas cakes just for you

With a circular motion add the beaten eggs by degrees, continuing the creaming between each addition. If mixture begins to curdle add a little flour to make it smooth again.Using a metal spoon, fold in one third of the flour, adding a little milk if necessary.

Repeat with the second one third of the flour, add a little milk. Add any fruit listed in the recipe and final third of the flour to which the

baking powder has been added.

Add more milk if necessary to keep the mixture to a soft dropping consistency. Add the essence.

Put mixture into a lined cake tin and bake in a slow oven (170 째C or Mark 1)for about 1 1/2 hours, then reduce the temperature to 150째C or mark 1/2 and continue to bake for 3-4 hrs.

Please note that this cake should be made at least a week before it is

cut. The flavour and colour improve with keeping.

Queen Cakes Ingredients: 200g flour, 125g sugar, 2 eggs, 125 g fat, 75 ml milk to mix, I teaspoon baking powder, 50g dried fruit, 25 g candied peel, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla essence.

Method: Follow the above creaming method. Make mixture a dropping consistency. Half fill well greasedcake tins and bake in a moderate oven for 15- 20 mints.

Victoria Sandwich Ingredients: 200g flour, 12g sugar, eggs, 125 fat, 75ml milk to mix, I teaspoon baking powder vanilla essence and 2 tablespoon jam.

Method: Line two greased sandwich tins with greased paper; prepare the mixture by the creaming method. Bake in a moderate oven for 30 mints. Turn out and cool on a rack. Spread jam on one round and place the other on top. Dredge with castor sugar.

Please write and share your experience with us.

Note you are not restricted to manual creaming as a cake creaming machine can also be used.

Last minute bargains Continued from Page 64 some come with electric burners.

Make sure the contents are worth the price you are paying for them.

Also check for the expiration dates of the products packed in the hamper.

The down parts of most of those baskets used as hampers are empty, with the products just packed to hang on top. If you buy in a hurry, you may end up paying for a basket that looks filled with gifts only for you to realize when you open it that the down part is virtually empty.

There is no place better to buy dry fish, stock fish and other soup condiments like Otto or Iddo markets. No other market or shop in Lagos State can compare with the prices of dry and stock fish offered at Otto and Iddo markets. These are the markets where retailers buy in bulk and sell to consumers.

If by this time you have not bought your Christmas trees and decorations, then hurry to Dosunmu market,Lagos Island if you can stand the mammoth crowd. A 7- inch Xmas tree can be bought for N4,000. The same six of Xmas tree outside Dosunmu market goes for N7,000. However, be sure the tree they are giving you is the full one as there are brands of Xmas trees that do not come full.For Christmas decorations also, Dosunmu market is the ideal place.

As you wine and dine, remember the reason for the season.

Remember whose birthday we are celebrating.

Merry Christmas.

THE NATION ON SUNDAY DECEMBER 23, 2012

65

Exit of Tito Supremo:A tribute

EBERE WABARA

WORDSWORTH T 08055001948

ewabara@yahoo.com

By a whisker…not the whiskers!

W

E begin this week with wrongdoings by National Mirror of December 20: “…police officers had actually taken law into their hands….” Extra-judicial killings: taken the law into their own hands….

“Our education system is in shambles (in a shambles)….”

“Majority (A majority) of our graduates are graduating into unemployment….”

The next disaster is from DAILY SUN of December 19: “…Dickson paying his last respect to his departed colleague….” A rewrite: Dickson paying last respects to his colleague.

THE GUARDIAN of December 18 disseminated copious goofs: “Imo offers reward for information on Sylvanus abductors” This way: Sylvanus’s abductors “One year after, thousands in N’Korea mourn late leader” Would they have mourned their living leader? Fatalistic thinking! North Koreans mourn leader’s death “In Imo, Ihedioha flags off N4.3b road project…” Can The Guardian tell us the etymological source of ‘flag off’?

Now The Guardian Editorial which contributed three major solecisms: “But the lawmakers failed to tell Nigerians what they plan to do about the siege currently laid on (to) the country by armed gangs.” “…armed bandits ravaging the country is worrisome.” Conscience, Nurtured by Truth: banditry inevitably involves the use of arms/weaponry. So, delete ‘armed’!

“Besides, are there genuine political reasons behind the activities of terror organisations such as Boko Haram and how could it (they) be addressed?”

Still on The Guardian: “Stylish pet bottle that adds class to your occassion” (Full-page advertisement by CWAY) Spell-check: occasion.

“Free, handy, extra cap for better hygeine (hygiene)” Source: as above “The proposed initiative will ensure that only road worthy (road-worthy) vehicles driven by….”

Last week’s edition of this medium goofed in its

lead story: “It was however gathered that a former Managing Director of the NDDC…cheated death by the whiskers (by a whisker).

And my own oversight last week: “Your Excellency, we at AEL pray that the Almighty God continue (not continues) to grant you good health….”

“We heard a gunshot and saw his police orderly walking briskly towards us, with a crowd in tow (not toe).” Apologies and thanks to the few eagleeyed readers who pointed them out. This is the basic essence of this column: exchange of scholastic ideas with human fallibility in purview.

“The Igue Festival, with it’s (its) glorious history and rich heritage, is here once again.” (First Bank/ Western Union full-page advertisement, THE PUNCH, December 15) National Mirror of December 13 donated four blunders to the pool of infractions this week: “…which has raised hope of restoring democratic rule at (to) the grassroots after….” “…it has been controversy (controversies) galore.”

“The warning came on the heel (heels) of moves by the EFCC to adopt it in the trial of….”

“Last Wednesday, educationists, under (on) the platform….” “…nobody would nurse the ambition of visiting those places talkless of (let alone) going there to eke out a living.” “..the opportunity divinely offered him to transform a country touted as one of the richest in (on) the continent into a haven for investors and a paradise for his people.” “..the people of Umuchu can pool resources together to do a final battle with the erosion menace.” When you pool resources, there is no need for ‘together.’

“The falllouts of the Kaduna riot are large scale (large-scale) destruction and looting….” Justice in service of community: ‘fallout’ is non-count. “…Mark survived an impeachment attempt as senators in an overwhelming decision passed a vote of confidence on (in) the leadership of the Senate.” “…but rather accusing fingers pointed at the Presidency.” The finger pointed at the Presidency. No lexical

decoration (accusing).

“Nigerians can no longer silently acquiesce to (in) the persecution (prosecution?) of such illegitimacies for whatever reason by whosoever.”

“Pomp and pageantry as Asiwaju of…is installed” Either pomp and ceremony or pomp and circumstance.

Simply, pomp, too. “…another feather was added to (in) his cap as he was initiated into the royal circle with all the paraphernalia of royalty.”

“For that reason, we state it as our opinion that the police owes (owe) the nation.…”

“I score Maduekwe and the other diehard opponents of Kalu who are at (in) the corridors of power in Abuja very lowly for their lack of foresight.”

“They should know that they can never be allowed the luxury of holding society to ransome.”

Spell-check: ransom. “…the president should concentrate his efforts in (on) the prime projects of his in the remaining part of his tenure.”

“The president must be conversant with the types of ammunitions and explosions (explosives) kept in such big armouries.” Get it right: ‘ammunition’ is noncount.

“For instance, in a case of ghastly (fatal) accident where many lives are lost....”

“You may work on one side of the town, your children school on the other and you spend the days tensed up because either of the two sides can erupt in flames.” ‘Either of the two sides’ smacks of illiteracy. Either of the sides please.

“If you as much as bumped into an Osun legislator on (in) the corridor….”

“The Senate will be seen to be practicing (American) double standards (standard) if it does not heed the motion....”

“The only difference this time around (round) was that the police was (were) striking against their masters and against themselves.”

“If it is rented, it could fetch between N.8m to N1m per annum.” My perspective: between N.8m and N1m. “…they destroyed four government vans, while a private car packed (parked)….”

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

ITO SUPREMODoes that sound familiar?

Now This: Titus Ajibade Ogunwale?

Ha! Ha! Those are the names of a Nigerian Journalist, a fantastic leader writer, a distinguished editor, researcher, author and the longest serving academic staff and pioneer Deputy Director of Nigerian Institute of Journalism (NIJ).

For Titus Ogunwale, the stars fell from the sky and the man died on November 26, 2012.

When a colleague of mine called to inform me of the home call of Titus Ogunwale, my mind immediately went to when we were together at the Features Department of Sketch Printing and Publishing Company in the 60s.

(Not Sketch Press Limited then).

Titus Ogunwale joined the “Sketch” in 1967 on his return from United Kingdom where he studied Journalism.

As a traditional practice then, a fresh reporter’s first assignment was reporting court proceedings. But the Editor of Daily Sketch, Ayo Adedun, quickly discovered that Titus would be more effective in the features department than the newsroom.

‘This was how Titus started to stand on the shoulders of ‘giants in journalism and succeeded in seeing farther’.

At the Features Department, we, the five of us, were working as if at a research centre – reading something about everything and everything about something, buying books and exchanging them.

The head was the Late Tunji Oseni, a distinguished journalist and Information Manager, Late Lawrence Fagbemigun, (now Late) Titus Ogunwale, Bisi Osindele (now Amagada) and myself.

Tunji was MATOS, Lawrence, Oddman, Titus, Tito Supremo, Bisi, Aunty Bisi, and self, Tom Drinkwater.

Now, if all of us were alive, still working in the features department and the story of a departed professional colleague is broken, what would have been our immediate reactions?

Tunji Oseni would have exclaimed: “This is bloody”.

Lawrence Fagbemigun, who always dinned at the table of comic and fun would have said; “This stupid death, if it had knocked at my door, I would have shot it dead before it could harm me” In one of his last pieces before his death in May 1973, Lawrence Fagbemigun, the oddman had written on why some

•Ogunwale

By Tunde Akingbade

men love cars more than their wives: “I can not say (for sure) which of the two I love better but they can both remain in my house as wives No 1 and 2 provided they are tolerant of each other and show understanding, otherwise one would be sacked for the other. If I have to take such a painful decision, then, of course, my wife (I mean the mother of my children) would have to go…….”

Titus Ogunwale, a cultural man to the core, would have asked in Yoruba language “Duro na, kilopa?”

(Wait a minute, what killed him?!)

Bisi Amagbada would have been so overwhelmed with emotion that she would have been unable to say a word. And yours sincerely would have queried why death should take him away at just over 70 and did not comply with the Holy Book in Genesis 6:3 which says : ‘Then the Lord said, my spirit will not contend to man for ever for he is mortal; his days will be a hundred and twenty years.”

Titus Ogunwale contributed immensely to the development of journalism not only in Nigeria but in some other African countries.

Before his retirement at Nigerian Institute of Journalism, he served as the first Head of Department (HOD) to the Northern outpost of the institution in Jos. His teaching of journalism took him to different parts of Africa – Ghana, Benin Republic, The Cameroons, Kenya

and Zimbabwe.

A one-time Reviews Editor in the “Sketch” Titus Ogunwale was as passionate in the correct use of English as Yoruba Language.

Up to the point of his exit, he was busy collecting and exhibiting African artworks for charity. He was a co-director of Nigeria – Bugaria Journalism Workshop and was honoured with a Bulgarian medal. He was also a stringer for the BBC, TBI, (Television Business International U.K) and many other news network).

At the October meeting of the League of veteran journalists in Oyo State, he had called me and pointed my attention to what he called my “unpardonable” omission” of my encounter with Mariam Makeba and my interview of Col. Adekunle Fajuyi’s mother shortly after his son, who was the military Governor of Western State was killed during a military coup detat in Ibadan in my book “A servant to his colleagues” recently presented to the public.

Titus Ogunwale will be buried on Friday, December 21, 2012 at his country home, Moro, Ife North Local Government of Osun State.

To you Tito Supremo, to borrow Tunji Oseni’s words “This is bloody” but greet your boss, your Catholic brother, Peter Ajayi for us. Goodnight Akingbade is a former chairman of League Veteran Journalists, Oyo State.

66

THE NATION ON SUNDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2012

News

CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME

EVBUOMWAN

NAIBI

OGUNDELE

OLANIYAN

NWOYE

I,formerly known and addressed as Miss Evbuomwan Lorenta Oziegbe, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Atim Lorenta Oziegbe. All former documents remain valid. PHCN and general public should please take note.

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All former documents remain valid.

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ETE

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IORZUA

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I,formerly known and addressed as Miss Aderogba, Fatimat Eniola, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Abdul Wahab Fatimat Eniola. All former documents remain valid. TASUED, NYSC and general public should please take note.

CONFIRMATION OF NAME I,Mr. Raji Olugbemiga Muili and Mr. Raji Muili Ayanniran are one and the same person, now Mr. Raji Olugbemiga Muili. All former documents remain valid. Ministry of Agriculture, Minieral Resources & Rural Dev., UBA Plc., and general public should please take note.

IMORU I,formerly known and addressed as Miss Rekiat Imoru, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Rekiat Lawal.

All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

UKOR

I,formerly known and addressed as Miss Mary Eno Ukor, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Mary Hosanna Attai. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

ABDUL

I,formerly known and addressed as Abdul Isiaku, now wish to be known and addressed as Abdul Abubakar. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

AFOLABI

I,formerly known and addressed as Miss Afolabi Aonuoluwa Christy, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Abioye Aonuoluwa Christy. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

IGE

I,formerly known and addressed as Ige, Temitope Agnes, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Abioye Temitope Agnes. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

OLATUNJI

I,formerly known and addressed as Miss Olatunji, Monsurat Abolore, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. bdulwahab Monsurat Abolore. All former documents remain valid. Ajeromi General Hospital and general public should please take note.

ADEGOKE

I,formerly known and addressed as Miss Adegoke, Zainab Olamide, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Olaniyan, Zainab Olamide. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

OKORO

I,formerly known and addressed as Okoro Sheila Ejiro, now wish to be known and addressed as Emuluna Sheila Ejiro. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

UGWU

I,formerly known and addressed as Miss Ugwu Judith Nneka, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Judith Ugwu Erugo. All former documents remain valid.

IMSU, EBSU, FETHA and general public should please take note.

AKANJI

I,formerly known and addressed as Miss Akanji, Adebunmi Ajoke, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Abraham Ajoke. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

MUSA

I,formerly known and addressed as Miss Musa, Mariyetu Ohinoyi, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Okeniyi Mariyetu Ohinoyi.

All former documents remain valid.

General public should please take note.

NGWAKA

BALOGUN

I,formerly known and addressed as Miss Ngwaka Doris Ugochinyere, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Ugwu Doris Ugochinyere.

All former documents remain valid. IMT, NYSC and general public should please take note.

TOGUNLOJU

I,formerly known and addressed as Miss Ozongwu, Esther Odinaka, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Ozor, Esther Odinaka. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

I,formerly known and addressed as Mrs. Balogun, Toyin Balogun, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Aderonke Adijat Toyin Oladipo. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

I formerly known and addressed as Miss Adebisi Kehinde Togunloju, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Kennie Adebisi Famola. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

OZONGWU

ESSIEN

I formerly known and addressed as Miss Uduak Essien, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Uduak Nsikan. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

I,formerly known and addressed as Miss Ogundele, Abigail Folaranmi, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Aasa Abigail Folaranmi. All former documents remain valid. Federal Polytechnic, Offa, Kwara State,NYSC, GTBank Plc., Ecobank and general public should please take note.

I formerly known and addressed as Mrs. Bolanle Muhibah Adedayo (Nee Olaniyan) now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Olatunji Muhibah Adedayo (Nee Olaniyan). All former documents remain valid. Osun State Judiciary,Osun State Judicial Service Commission and general public take note.

I,formerly known and addressed as Miss Aiyeyemi, Olubowale, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Olusola, Olubowale Ivy. All former documents remain valid.

General public should please take note.

I formerly known and addressed as Miss Saliu Mujidat Omowumi now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Adewuji Mujidat Omowumi.

All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

AIYEYEMI

OMOTAYO

I,formerly known and addressed as Miss Omotayo, Olayinka Fisayo, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Adeniyan, Olayinka Fisayo Lydia. All former documents remain valid. Nigerian Prison and general public should please take note.

OLORUNMEDUN

I,formerly known and addressed as Miss Olorunmedun Omonitemi Emily, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Adeniyi, Omonitemi Emily. All former documents remain valid. Nigeria Police Force and general public should please take note.

BALOGUN

I,formerly known and addressed as Miss Balogun, Titilayo Veronica, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. David, Titilayo Veronica. All former documents remain valid. Federal Polytechni, Ado-Ekiti and general public should please take note.

YUSUF

I, formerly known and addressed MISS OLUWABUNMI ADEDOJA YUSUF now wish to be known and a d d r e s s e d asMRS.OLUWABUNMI ADEDOJA BROWNRIDGE . All former documents remain valid.

National Open University and general public please take note.

CONFIRMATION OF NAME I, AWUTE FAITH JUSTICE C. and AWUTE FAITH are one and the same person, now wish to be known and addressed as AWUTE FAITH JUSTICE C. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

ETUKUDO

I, formerly known and addressed MRS. NKOPUYO UBONG ETUKUDO now wish to be known and addressed as MISS. NKOPUYO MACAULAY EKANEM. All former documents remain valid. Nigerian Ports Authority and general public please take note.

CONFIRMATION OF NAME I, MIRACLE OWUPELE and GLAYDS OWUPELE are one and the same person, now wish to be known and addressed as MIRACLE OWUPELE. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

OLAWUMI

I, formerly known and addressed a s MISS OLAWUMI AINA PRECIOUS, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS ALE AINA PRECIOUS. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.

OKPARA

SALIU

OGUNEKUN

I formerly known and addressed as Ogunekun Akinwunmi Gboyega now wish to be known and addressed as Akinola Akinwunmi Gboyega. All former document remain valid. General public to take note.

MUHAMMED

I formerly known and addressed as Mrs Halima Bolanle Muhammed now wish to be known and addressed as MS Bolanle Halima Thomas-Owasoyo. All former document remain valid. General public to take note.

EJIOFOR

I formerly known and addressed as Miss Ejiofor Lynda Chinonyelum now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Chukwuocha Lynda Chinonyelum. All former document remain valid. General public to take note.

ALEBIOWU

I formerly known and addressed as Miss Alebiowu Oluwakemi Nike now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Sule Oluwakemi Nike. All former document remain valid. General public to take note.

EMUENODE

I formerly known and addressed as Ikhine Robinson Emuenode now wish to be known and addressed as Ikhine Emuenode-Roy Robinson.

All former document remain valid.

UNILAG and general public to take note.

ADESINA

I formerly known and addressed as Miss Adesina Adepeju Riskat now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Aladesuru Adepeju Riskat.

All former document remain valid.

General public to take note.

OLAOYE

I formerly known and addressed as Miss Olaoye Temitope Muibat now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Owokoniran Temitope Muibat. All former document remain valid. Nigeria Immigration and general public to take note.

ENITAN

I formerly known and addressed as Miss Shakirat Abosede Enitan now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Shakirat Enitan-Yusuff. All former document remain valid.

Ayobo Ipaja L.C.D.A and general public to take note.

GBADAMOSI

I formerly known and addressed as Miss Gbadamosi Bola Fatimoh now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Akinola Bola.

All former document remain valid.

Ayobo Ipaja L.C.D.A and general public to take note.

ARO

I, formerly known and addressed as MISS LEBECHI LAURETTA OKPARA, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS LEBECHI LAURETTA UBA. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.

I formerly known and addressed as Miss Aro Risikat Temitope now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Abiola Risikat Temitope.

All former document remain valid.

FBN and general public to take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as THOMAS JOSHUA, now wish to be known and addressed as JOSHUA THOMAS SAKO. All former documents remain valid.

The general public should please take note.

I formerly known and addressed as MISS ADESEKO BUNMI RACHEAL now wish to be known and addressed as MRS ALADELOYE BUNMI RACHEAL. All former document remain valid.

Comprehensive health centre OsiEkiti, ido-osi local government and general public to take note.

THOMAS

AROWOSEGBE

I, formerly known and addressed as MISS AROWOSEGBE IYABO WURAOLA , now wish to be known and addressed as MRS ALIU IYABO WURAOLA. All former documents remain valid.

The general public should please take note.

AMAEFUNA

I, formerly known and addressed as MISS AMAEFUNA FELISTA NKEM, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS IKEBUKWU FELISTA NKEM . All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.

OLUWAGBOYE

We, STEPHEN AKINWALE, CECILIA AJOKEADE, JOHN KAYODE, GRACE FUNMILAYO, JOSHUA MAYOWA and CALEB FISAYO with formal Surname as SANGOGBOYE , n o w w i s h t o b e known with Surname as OLUWAGBOYE. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.

ODUNUKAN

I, formerly known and addressed as MISS ELIZABETH ADESOLA ADEOLA ODUNUKAN now wish to be known and addressed as MRS ELIZABETH ADESOLA ADEOLA FEMI-JOLAOSO. All formers documents remain valid.

General public please take note.

ADESEKO

OLAOYE

I formerly known and addressed as MISS OLAOYE TEMITOPE YETUNDE AYODELE now wish to be known and addressed as MRS AFOLAYAN OLANREWAJU TEMITOPE. All former document remain valid. Ido osi local Government Area, comprehensive health centre Ifaki- Ekiti and General public to take note.

ERINLE

I formerly known and addressed as Miss Anthonia Temitope Erinle now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Adewole, Anthonia Temitope. All former document remain valid. General public to take note.

CONFIRMATION OF NAME Eyakndung Sunday Effiong and Godsent Sunday Effiong refers to one and the same person. I now wish to be known and addressed as Godsent Sunday Effiong. All former documents remain valid. general public please take note.

YUSUFF

I formerly known and addressed as Yusuff Oludayo Ayodeji Malik, now wish to be known and addressed as Emmanuel Oludayo Ayodeji. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

I formerly known and addressed as Miss Nwoye Irene Ebele, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs.Arinze Irene Ebele. All former documents remain valid. UNN (NSUGBE CAMPUS) and general public please take note.

UMOH

I formerly known and addressed as Miss Umoh Itoro Emmanuel, now wish to be known as Mrs. Itoro Nathaniel. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

ANYAELE

I formerly known and addressed as Miss Anyaele Helen. N., now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Uche Helen. N. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

ENEMUO

I formerly known and addressed as Mrs. Enemuo Esther Ngozi, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Chidiuto Esther Ngozi. All former documents remain valid.

General public please take note.

OCHIAGHA

I formerly known and addressed as Miss Ochiagha Eberechukwu Queendalin. now wish to be known as Mrs.Abalu Collins Eberechukwu Virtue. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

IHEMEKWALA

I formerly known and addressed as Miss Chioma Josephine Ihemekwala. now wish to be known as Mrs. Chioma Josephine Anayochi Igwe. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

ADETAYO

I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Adetayo, Latifat Olubusayo, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Bello Latifat Olubusayo. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.

NWACHUKWU

I, Sabinus Nwachukwu formerly known to have hailed from Isiala Ngwa LGA of Abia State have now known that He is from Ekwe in Isu Local govt. of Imo State. All former documents remain valid. PHCN and general public should please take note.

AKINWUMI

I formerly known and addressed as Miss Akinwumi Oluwakemi Blessing Ifedayo, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Lasisi Boboye, Roseline Funmilayo. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

ODUSOLA

I formerly known and addressed as Miss Odusola, Temitope Kafayat, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Muda, Temitope Kafayat. All former documents remain valid. Power Holding Company of Nigeria, (PHCN) Plc. and general public please take note.

AJAGBE

I formerly known and addressed as Miss Ajagbe Rashidat Folashade, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Ogunshe Rashidat Folashade. All former documents remain valid. Power Holding Company of Nigeria, (PHCN) Plc. and general public please take note.

ADVERT: Simply produce your marriage certificate or sworn affidavit for a change of name publication, with just N4,500. The payment can be made through - FIRST BANK of Nigeria Plc. Account number 2017220392 Account Name - VINTAGE PRESS LIMITED Scan the details of your advert and teller to gbengaodejide@yahoo.com o r thenation_advert@yahoo.com For enquiry please contact: Gbenga on 0 8 0 5 2 7 2 0 4 2 1 , 08161675390, Emailgbengaodejide @yahoo.com or our offices nationwide.

Note this! Change of name is now published every Sundays, all materials should reach us two days before publication.

First Bank supports young talents

F

IRST Bank has expressed its readiness to support discovery of young talents i9n the country.

Speaking at the Discovery Children’s Concert 2012 holding in Calabar, Cross River State, Mr. Ekpe Ndiyo, Business Manager, Public Sector, said the support of the bank was in line with its corporate objective of intervening in initiatives which could lead to discovery and development of young talents.

He said, “We believe the young people of today are the leaders of the future. We also realise the abundance of talents that are inherent in these children. All they needed is a platform and an environment to put these talents to positive use. That is what we have provided.

As a bank, we will continue to discharge our responsibility by providing world-class financial services, while not forgetting to drive and support social initiatives that ensure that our young ones are prepared to take on the leadership responsibility of this country in the future.”

The event which took place in the main bowl of Calabar Cultural Centre witnessed performance s by various groups including Discovery Orchestra, a teen group, a 25-member group, adorned in traditional Efik attire and the Big Qua Girls School who sang the ever green Christian Yoruba song “Ise Oluwa, ko le baje.”

ICPC gives agencies deadline to return unspent votes

T

HE Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), has directed Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to return all unspent fund to the Sub-Treasury not later than December 31.

The Commission in a statement by its chairman, Mr. Ekpo Nta, also directed the MDAs to submit the receipt and expenditure profiles of their personnel to the commission not later than January 31 next year.

According to the statement, “Letters have been sent to the various Ministries, Departments and Agencies for strict compliance and to note that any infraction will be prosecuted,” adding that verification of claims would begin in February.

THE NATION ON SUNDAY DECEMBER 23, 2012

News Review

67

Congratulating our own Wole Soyinka

T

HAT I have profound regard for Prof. Wole Soyinka is merely an understatement. In some of my public commentaries, I described him as ‘my intellectual avatar’ because I am a beneficiary of the density and immensity of his literature.

As my wont, I should immediately qualify that. Unlike the Nobel Laureate, I am not a priest in the temple of the arts. I avoid altogether the visual aspect of the arts, namely fine and applied arts. As for its non-visual arm, I choose and pick. I like the performing art but I am mostly enamoured of the literary art. And so, it is in literary art, especially the creative writing category, that I find Soyinka a jewel of inestimable value.

I tend not to like fiction except the very interesting ones but could stomach faction - depending on the degree of ‘facts’. For instance, I am not sure I did enjoy the Trial of Brother Jero when I read it many years ago; I did succeed to a large extent in enjoying Ibadan: The Penkelemes Years; but perusing You Must Set Forth At Dawn placed me on top of the world. My interest is, therefore, essentially, on the non-fiction works of Prof. Soyinka. Besides such books, his writings in newspapers are a “must read” for me. I crave them like a deer pants after a brook.

Mr Soyinka further won my respect in his memoir, You Must Set Forth At Dawn, by the manner in which he remembered his bosom friend, the late insurance broker, Femi Johnson. I quote from my review of the book in 2007.

“In 1987, Femi Johnson left his heart with Wole Soyinka and took a terminal exit from the terrestrial milieu after a fervid but futile battle to hang on.

Twenty years after, that heart beats, not just in Nigeria but Africa, Europe, America, Asia - all over the world, wherever Soyinka’s memoir is perused.

Even the efflux of time did not abate or mitigate the memories of a fervent relationship; the 1986 Nobel Laureate deserves a space in the hall of fame for immortalising a friend with such affecting effusions. In a world suffused with ingrates and laden with open perfidies and opportunistic contortions of historical/demised relationships, Soyinka offers a parameter and symbol of a symbiotic and sacrificial friend-

ship - cash and/kind. Although not a reputed elegiac writer, the Nobel Prize winner did succeed in railroading his avid and assiduous readers to the sanctuary of empathy, ensuring we shared in his bereavement of Femi Johnson.”

When you write an autobiography, it is essentially about yourself. But Soyinka seems to have portrayed his friendship with the late Femi Johnson as the reason for the memoir. He had no qualms in noting that it was the late insurance broker that gave him a cheque (not a loan) with which he began his house in Abeokuta after he suddenly realised that he could not yet access his funds in a bank. Even as I write now, I seem to share in the pang of that loss. Notes the playwright, “I remained in thrall to this absence whose memory still haunts me, as it does so many others in varying degrees… bringing with his recollection a sense of wonder at the unimaginable plenitude that we had all shared in the sheer being of this individual (Femi Johnson).”

And so when I read the criteria that won Soyinka the first ever Awolowo Prize for Leadership, I knew it was an honour well deserved. For instance, under Credibility – candidate must be a person in whom people believe and repose trust. That triggered some recollections: You can leave your heart with Wole and travel to Hong Kong. When you come back, it would still be beating. Femi Johnson had confided that compliment “in his second wife, Folake, who passed it to mine, her name sake.” (You Must Set Forth At Dawn, page 191).

What about Selflessness? – candidate must be a person who gives priority to the general interest over personal interest. She/ he should be a public spirited person.

The first Awo Laureate had returned from higher education study in England “on the wheels of a Rockefeller Fellowship on New Year’s day, 1960, to research dramatic forms.” He could have ensconced himself at the University College, Ibadan or chosen the path of the establishment but for his public spiritedness.

The governor of Ogun State, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, therefore, hit the nail on the head when he put it on record that “The winner of the Nobel prize for Literature has spent his entire adult life

leading the crusade for a just and united society founded on the sanctity of the rule of law and press freedom. Prof.

Soyinka is an embodiment of integrity, credibility, discipline, courage, selflessness, accountability, tenacity of purpose, among other sterling qualities that won him the most distinguished award.

Soyinka has continued to use the arts as a tool of social re-engineering.”

Indeed, the dramatist, through his revues and writings in the press, has, since returning from Leeds in 1960, not only continued to tilt at any execrable conduct of any political leadership but harped on the imperative of a society founded on justice, equity and fairness.

I must confess, I sometimes feel for Prof. Soyinka. He’s not growing younger. Even though I have proclaimed he will attain 100 years, even such a landmark is merely two decades away. A man that has devoted his entire life to the cause of the downtrodden masses deserves to see better days, some glimmer of hope in public affairs management.

Is it fortuitous that the writeractivist’s redoubt should be here in Abeokuta? Well, the gods are not asleep.

Right here in Abeokuta, in the abode of the recipient of the prestigious Obafemi Awolowo Prize for Leadership, governance by billboards is giving way to concrete governance. I’m quite sure our revered Nobel Laureate must have passed through the international standard Ibara-Totoro Road, sighted the on-going flyover bridge, state-of-the-art footbridge under construction and imagined what a modern city centre is in the offing in the state capital…

The poet will readily admit that his life was shaped at the Government College, Ibadan (GCI). Government College, of course, is a public school.

We all know what has become of public education in Nigeria, especially the fall of those citadels of learning all over the country.

“We are all products of public schools,” Senator Amosun often declares, “and we must do everything possible to restore the glory of public education in Nigeria. Although it is costly, we will close our eyes and provide functional free education to our children. Once they get it right at the primary and secondary levels, they will

•Soyinka

By Soyombo Opeyemi

excel at the tertiary level.”

It is most likely Prof. Soyinka would have noticed our efforts in this direction. Here, I do not speak of a flash in the pan or fleeting experiment but genuine and unwavering efforts of Governor Amosun to provide access to education to the teeming children of the state through functional free education that includes free textbooks and writing materials, payment of teachers’ salaries as and when due, rehabilitation of dilapidated school buildings, training and retraining of teachers and construction of world class model schools, among others.

Our efforts in revamping the comatose health sector, generating direct and indirect employment through collaboration with institutions like the Bank of Industry and multilateral agencies, revival of interest in agriculture, gradual elimination of bottlenecks in

the interface of the public with government offices (Ministry of Commerce and Bureau of Lands being good examples), Conditional Cash Transfers (of MDGs) – Ogun being the first state in Nigeria to use the scheme to reduce child and maternal mortality - among others, could possibly not have escaped the notice of our world renowned scholar, Prof. Soyinka.

But above all, the palpable efforts of the current state government to restore public faith in political leadership is most reassuring and should give cause for hope to such public spirited individuals like our own Wole Soyinka.

Once more, I join other well-meaning Nigerians to congratulate the inimitable Soyinka on “the crème de la crème of my recognitions” – the distinguished Obafemi Awolowo Prize for Leadership.

Soyombo, is Special Assistant on Media to the governor of Ogun State

Remembering politics and times of Kola Balogun (1922 – 2002)

W

HEN the late Chief Kolawole Balogun (The Chief Jagun of Otan Ayegbaju) died on 23rd December 2002 (exactly 10 years ago), Nigeria was robbed of one of those vibrant, colourful, credible committed politicians of yesteryears. Kola Balogun, as he was popularly called, was one of those young Nigerians, who as a teenager caught the bug of the Nigerian Independence struggle. At that time, politics tended to be goal-oriented. It involved, in the main, self-deprivation and sacrifices, materially, physically and actually emotionally.

Those who embarked on politics virtually took it as a vocation with the utmost revolutionary commitment and were ready to pay any price for it as undoubtedly some of them did. The colonial authorities never spared them from victimisation, imprisonment, banning and detention. Trade unionism was scarcely different from political activism. Both pursuits as well as journalism in many cases overlapped in objectives and personnel. Hence, trade unionists and radical nationalists were treated alike by the colonialists. Trade unionism impacted phenomenally on the anti-colonial movement. Aside from the “constructive agitation” of the sedate and conventional politicians, it is arguable that the activities of the Baloguns forced the British to quicken the pace of constitutional advancement to nationhood even though in the post war context of the Atlantic Charter, the power ascension of the Labour Government in the U.K. and the resultant lessons of prolonged colonialism in India made the march to Nigeria independence relatively shorter and less demanding.

Constitutionally, the attainment of nationhood in the erstwhile Gold Coast was also less demanding as in Nigeria. Yet Gold Coast (where Kola Balogun later served as Nigeria’s first High Commissioner upon attainment of Independence) produced a charismatic nationalist and a foremost Pan African crusader, Kwame Nkrumah, in the mould of Pandit Nehru.

Nkrumah never wavered in spite of the hostility of the colonialsists who at one stage detained him along with four other leaders of the United Gold Coast Convention (UGCC). Ideological differences both in tactics and goals of the struggle led to the formation of the Convention Peoples Party, CPP, which discredited the Coussey Constitution. That Constitution was a contemporary of the Macpherson Constitution. Notionally, whereas constitutionalism in colonial countries tended to lead to the formation of broad nationalist parties, in Nigeria the parties that emerged became factional and sectional. The National Council of Nigeria and the Cameroons, NCNC, (later to become the National Council of Nigerian Citizens) had hitherto fitted the bill as a countrywide party but in the face of sustained opposition from the Nigerian Youth Movement (NYM). It had, according to Thomas Hodkin, later “foundered on the rock of tribalism or communalism. It never succeeded in building an organisation in the predominantly Moslem North, and in Yoruba territory in the West it lost ground from 1949 on, because it could easily be represented as an Ibo dominated body”, Indeed, Nnamdi Azikiwe, (Zik) during this period which also witnessed a most acrimonious palaver between the Yorubas

and Ibos, started to make what Kalu Ezera termed Ibo “glorifying speeches”. The net result is that Nigeria attained Independence with a truncated national leadership and factional political parties. No parallel political independence movement like the Indian National Congress or Convention Peoples Party of Ghana emerged in Nigeria.

In the case of Ghana, the Committee of Youth prior to her Independence was the radical wing of the CPP. They were the storm troopers who mobilised grass-root support for the party and thereby contributed immensely to the evolution of a dynamic, nationalistic and united Ghana at the attainment of nationhood in 1957. In turn, Ghana most daringly became the arrowhead for the total liberation of the entire dependent African countries.

Similarly, the Kola Baloguns on the platform of the Zikist Movement of Nigeria were single-mindedly determined to play the role of the radical Committee of Youth in the Gold Coast under the leadership of Zik and the NCNC. In 1945, there was the General Strike in Nigeria. The Zik group of newspapers namely the West African Pilot, Comet and Spokesman, were militant in their espousal of the cause of the workers. Michael Imoudu was detained in Auchi, Edo State, all to no avail. Vitriolic polemics and altercation ensued between the Governor, Sir Arthur Richard supported by Harold Cooper, an intellectual journalist and editor of the government-owned Nigeria Review on the one side and Zik, his newspapers and the emergent radicals on the other side. Later on, Zik, by implication disowned these radicals of

the Zikist Movement, the Baloguns, Ajuluchukwus, Abiodun Alobas, Nduka Ezes, Fashanus, Osita Agwunas, Mokwugo Okoyes, and Rajih Abdullahs. Zik appeared unwilling to play the Ghandi valiant and fearless leadership role, which rescued India from the grip of rapacious domination.

The revolutionary trajectory being plotted by the youths imbued with Zik’s ideas had become too dangerous and uncomfortable to bear.

Meanwhile, through the interception of some telegraph messages, one Coker, a.k.a. secret document Coker, had alleged a colonialist plot to assassinate Zik. This gave rise to the famous “Zik assassination story” which the dyed in the wool colonial Governor Sir Arthur Richard dubbed derisively as “assassination deluxe”. It was in reaction to this testy happening that Kola Balogun, M.C.K. Ajuluchukwu and Abiodun Aloba; enthusiastic followers of Zik formed the Zikist Movement in 1946. This as it was, became the militant auxiliary of the NCNC. The trio was at this time associate editors of the Nigerian Advocate, a newspaper owned by a Lebanese businessman.

Kola Balogun through the secret reading of the Pilot had caught the bug of Zik’s brand of nationalism at Government College Ibadan between 1940– 1943. He was highly regarded in the school where he was a sportsman and a keen debater. He wrote poems and led a cultural group.

Against the intimidating advice of the Principal, the famous educationist and Olympic gold medalist, V.B.V. Powell, he left the College after four years to sit for the London matriculation examination. To the admiration

of his classmates who were still on full-time studies and were yet to take similar examinations Kola Balogun was successful in his examination.

While on full-time employment, first as a U.A.C. trainee manager, then as a journalist with the West African Pilot in Lagos, Kola Balogun, was transferred in 1948 to relieve Mr. Olujide Somolu (as he then was) as the Editor of the Spokesman in Onitsha. Meanwhile, in the midst of intense politicing and journalism this determined, focused, smart, precocious “Village Boy, Man of the World” had again passed the intermediate Bachelor of Laws, LL.B. degree of the London University. Hence, he was unable to assume his position in Onitsha. He had to leave for further studies in the United Kingdom.

Arriving in London as a part time student, Kola Balogun had, between 1948 -1951 obtained his LL.B. degree at London University and was subsequently called to the English Bar. His part-time student status did not in any way militate against his political activism as he joined the West African Students Union WASU. This organisation played a considerable role in the political awakening of West African Students in the UK particularly up to the sixties before West African Countries attained their respective independence. WASU was a huge, vigorous and energising source of African nationalism. It was a clearing house of ideas, ideologically focused and a training school for impressionable students who were pillars of intellectual and political support for Africans in the diaspora and at home.

•To be continued tomorrow

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WORSHIP THE NATION ON SUNDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2012

RCCG donates gift items to widows

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• L-R- Superintendent (Dr) Israel Akinadewo - Supervising Head, Motailatu Church International Sub-Headquarters, Alakuko, Lagos. Sp. Snr. Ap. (Dr) David Onanuga - Chairman OAIC Lagos State. Prophet (Dr) Solomon Alao - Head, Sacred C&S Worldwide Prophet (Dr) Gabriel Fakeye - C&S Movement. At the 2012 Adoption Thanksgiving Service of Motailatu Church C&S Worldwide, International Headquarters, Alakuko, Lagos State, on Sunday, 16th December, 2012.

Women ministry dedicates hall

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T was a day of great rejoicing and celebration for members of the Women With Anointing Ministry (WWAM) with the dedication of an ultra-modern hall, the Glorious Praise Events Arena.

The event, which took place last week in Port-Harcourt, attracted a large number of dignitaries who trooped out to support a worthy cause.

The Co-ordinator of the ministry, Mrs Ejiro Awobasivwe, who was visibly excited at the realisation of a dream, expressed grati-

By Patience Saduwa

tude to God for making the completion of the hall for the ministry’s meetings possible.

Tracing the history of the ministry, she disclosed that it was ‘birthed out of a desire to provide a support system for women in marriage through close fellowship and studying of God’s word.’ “The ministry held her first meeting on the 6th of November, 2008 at the home of the mother of the Co-ordinator, where our programmes were held faithfully and successful for

four years,” she stated.

She noted that with the growing number of women attending the meetings, a bigger space was needed.

“Luckily, our Patron, my wonderful husband, Mr Lucky Awobasivwe, was instrumental in purchasing the land required and building this magnificent edifice for our use which resulted in the birth of Glorious Praise Events Arena....Our prayer is that as WWAM holds her meetings in this hall, God’s praise would indeed be glo-

rious in our midst as he keeps using us to touch lives one woman at a time,” she disclosed.

While dedicating the hall, Rev. Kingsley Ojo stated that, “anyone who is poor, once he steps into this hall, Abraham’s blessings will be his/her portion in Jesus name.”

The event featured the launching of three books written by the Co-ordinator as well as the presentation of items to flood victims in Bayelsa State.

Fountain of Life empowers business owners

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ECHNICAL knowhow, not capital, has been said to be responsible for the failure of many businesses in the country.

This was revealed by a survey conducted among thousands of small and medium scale business owners across the country by the Business Fellowship Department of the Fountain of Life Church, Ilupeju, Lagos.

The head of the department, Pastor Mojisola Odukoya made this known, Wednesday during a networking workshop organised to enhance the capacity of selected growing business people across the country.

She said: " Our senior pastor,Taiwo Odukoya gave us the task of empowering as many members and non members of the church that are into small and medium scale businesses using global best practices. In trying to do this, we conducted a survey at the beginning of the year asking hundreds of business people to tell us the problems they face in doing their businesses.

After we analysed the whole thing, we discovered that most of them lack the technical know-how. Surprisingly, finance wasn't the biggest problem but know-how. It was an insightful research that made

By Innocent Duru

us to understand that priority should be placed on technical know how and not necessarily on finance. When a business has the capital but lacks the know-how it has a higher propensity to fail.

The networking workshop according to her equiped the participants with the technical skills they needed to excel in their businesses.

"The networking workshop empowers the close to 200 participants within and outside the church on how to net-

work in the business world.

The programme is open to everybody in any part of the country. We announced it and even made flyers that we distributed far and wide to inform people about it.It is highly affordable because Pastor Odukoya subsidised it

Church makes case for Constitution review

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HE Presbyterian Church of Nigeria has put forward a fivepoint proposal as its contribution to the planned constitution review and what it calls re-engineering Nigeria for enduring peace, unity and stability.

This includes the strengthening of the status of Nigeria as a secular state where all religions thrive side by side and no particular religion is preferred to others.

There should be no ambiguity as to the secular state of Nigeria both in principle and in practice, the General Assembly Executive Committee (GAEC) of the church said in a communiqué at the end of its quarterly meeting in Calabar,Cross River State.

The Church asked the National Assembly to enshrine in the Constitution, the principle of true Federalism in which each State of the Fed-

eration would control the resources within its bounds. This, it said, would ensure equity and fairness and would also resolve the twin issues of resource control and revenue allocation.

On the creation of more States in Nigeria, the Church expressed support for more States to be created in such a way that the geo-political zones would have equal number of States. This would further bring the Government closer to the people and stimulate the provision of more social amenities that would bring better living conditions to the people.

The Church called for the removal of the Immunity Clause as it concerns State Governors as a step to boost the fight against corruption in Nigeria.

On Local Government Autonomy, the Church recalled that the Local Government system was introduced in 1976 ostensibly as an agent of rapid

development at the grassroots level. It stated that from 1976 till date, there was hardly anything on ground to justify the operations of the Local Governments mainly because of the hijack of the Local Government Councils by their State Governments and the high level of corruption that had attended the system. The Church therefore called for Local Government autonomy throughout the country to return the LGAs to their original position as the third tier of Government.

In the eleven-point communiqué jointly signed by the Prelate and Moderator of the General Assembly, The Most Rev. Prof. Emele Mba Uka and the Principal Clerk, Rev. Ndukwe Nwachukwu Eme, the Church commiserated with the nation and the families of those who lost their lives and property in the floods that ravaged various towns and communities in Nigeria.

IDOWS have been advised to desist from living a miserable life and focus on God as their husband.

The advice was given by Pastor (Mrs) Christiana Omunagbe of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Praise Palace Parish, at a Widows Appreciation programme which held at the Church’s headquarter in Oba Oka area of Lagos.

Pastor Omunagbe who was the guest minister at the event told widows to always thank and appreciate God in whatever situations they find themselves. She added that being a widow could be saddening but being alive is enough reason to thank God because when there is life there is hope for better things to come.

Wife of the Province Pastor and organisers of the event, Pastor (Mrs) Elizabeth Akintaju, explained that the event was packaged to give succour to widows and also

feed them with the word of God. She disclosed that the charity gesture started last year with the distribution of various gift items to widows and that the gesture was part of the Church’s determination to put smiles on the faces of widows as yuletide season approaches.

Some of the items donated to hundreds of widows who attended the programme included rice, live chickens, groundnut oil and lace materials.

One of the widows, Mrs Folake Ogunbiyi, said she lost her husband 19 years ago, and that she alone was saddled with the responsibility of taking care of four children since her in-laws had taken over her late husband’s property. She disclosed that not for once has God disappointed her because two of those children have graduated from the university while the other two are still in school.

Lord’s Chosen holds 10th anniversary service

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HE Lord’s Chosen Charismatic Movement will holds its 10th anniversary service today (Sunday). The event which coincides with the annual end of the year convention of the ministry will be attended by members and friends of the church from various parts of the country.

Speaking at a press conference which at held at the church’s headquarters in Ijesha, Lagos during the week, General Overseer, Pastor Lazarus Muoka said the anniversary ceremony is a time to reflect on God’s grace which has sustained the ministry from its inception in 2002.

The pastor added that the

By Vincent Nzemeke

ministry rose from a humble beginning to become one of the leading churches in the country today because God gave him a unique message.

“We started this church in a kiosk at Ilasamaja and today we have branches all over the world. We have had so many challenges mainly because of the kind of message to preach but God has been sustaining us that is why we are coming together to celebrate”.

Unveiling the plan for the next decade, Pastor Muoka disclosed that the ministry would embark on a radical evangelism programme to take the gospel to the farthest parts of the world.

Church pushes evangelism

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HE President of Lagos West Baptist Conference, Rev Julius Adeniji, has called on the church to review and re-strategise its approach in evangelism for Christ.

Adeniji made this known at the 30th anniversary and dedication of new auditorium of El-shaddai Baptist Church held last week Sunday at Orelope, Egbeda, Lagos.

According to him, our great commission is to preach the gospel and to accomplish the task, we must endeavour to adopt new ways, strategy, approach of reaching today’s world for Christ.

He said that it is obvious that the world is changing with the new technological advancement, new lifestyle, increase in literacy level, which implies that the church should begin to reevaluate the method of reaching out with the gospel message in a changing world.

This he said will not give room for suspicions or compe-

By Adeola Ogunlade

tition among the body of Christ as each denomination can build a model that is unique after thorough self examination of better and innovative approach in ministry.

“The gospel of Christ is relevant in every society, and we should keep the gospel pure and free of our culture or human tradition. Our preaching should focus on Christ, not on culture or other traditional beliefs.”

Adeniji noted that church can only grow when there is constant self examination of the people, their orientation, environment, changing lifestyle and the available resources without undermining the message of God’s word.

In his opening address, the Chairman, Committee of the anniversary, Ayo Omole, said that the church which started with two members in 1982 as the first Baptist Church in Egbeda has produced many other churches within the baptist movement in Lagos.

Worship

THE NATION ON SUNDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2012

69

SIGHT AND SOUNDS: MUSICAL YOUTH FIESTA 2012, LAGOS NIGERIA

•Michael Oluseye Akingbala, performing "One Church", the MYF anthem: thrilling and mind-blowing vocals to the glory of God and the well-being of our youth •Boy prodigy on the violin

•Colourful: The Cherubim and Seraphim Movement Church (Ayo Ni O) delegation to MYF 2012.

• Lagos went agog, Wednesday December 19, when the Musical Youth Fiesta Initiative (MYFI) treated youths in Lagos to three hours of non-stop musical performances and dance drama, all in the spirit of joy and gaiety at Yuletide. It was Musical Youth Fiesta (MYF) 2012, the second in the series, held at the Expo Hall of Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos. It was indeed an afternoon to remember for the thrilled youths and their chaperons.

Here are exciting pictures from the event. PHOTOS: NIYI ADENIRAN

• Star audience: From left: Lagos First Lady, Dame Emmanuella Fashola, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, MYF 2012 convener, Jide Sanwo-Olu, chairman, MYF 2012 Organising Committee, Dr. (Mrs) Stella Okoli, CEO Emzor Pharmaceuticals, enthusiast and member Board of Trustees, Musical Youth Fiesta Initiative Board of Trustees, ace broadcaster, Mrs Patricia Otuedon-Arawore, and Otunba (Mrs) Yetunde Arobieke, all soaking up the excitement

• Chief Molade Okoya-Thomas, the Asoju Oba of Lagos and Dr. (Mrs) Stella Okoli, Emzor CEO at the concert • Merry Christmas and a happy New Year: see you at MYF 2013!

• Guitar amazons: fiery and blessed performance from the Mountain of Fire and Miracles (MFM) Guitar Choir

• Violin ensemble: live and direct, and with love from MFM

• Merry, merry MYF 2012: youths enjoying themselves during the concert

• Shout and holler with joy in the spirit of the season!

M i s s Ibukun Olapajo, of the T R E M Choir leading praise and worship at the Fiesta

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THE NATION SPORT SUNDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2012

SPORT EXTRA

Mikel, Moses to hit Faro Camp Jan. 5

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HELSEA stars Mikel Obi and Victor Moses as well as Newcastle striker Shola Ameobi will be the last arrivals at the Nigeria AFCON camp.

The major leagues across Europe will be on Christmas break, but not so with the English Premier League.

Both Chelsea and Newcastle will play their first match in the New Year on January 2.

Chelsea host a London derby against strugglers Queens Park Rangers, while Newcastle are home to Everton.

“The players from the EPL will be the last to arrive in Faro because they are still playing, while other leagues in Europe are on break. So, we hope to get Mikel, Victor Moses and Ameobi in latest January 5,” a top team official reportedly said.

“All the other players should be in Portugal by January 4, while the boys from the EPL we expect a day because that is 14 days before the first match at the Nations Cup.” Keshi will name his final 23-man squad on January 9 immediately after the warm-up game against Cape Verde in Portugal.

Okonkwo unruffled after AFCON's omission

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UPER Eagles' right back, Chibuzor Okonkwo, has said he nurses no hard feeling over failure to make the 32-man preliminary AFCON list.

Eagles' manager, Stephen Keshi, overlooked the former Heartland strongman in his AFCON squad for the January 2nd international friendly against the Catalonian side at the Estadi Cornella El Prat.

Okonkwo who was the surprised domestic lad to surface at the Eagles' camp said he is challenged rather than dismayed at his exclusion from the 2013 AFCON squad.

"No harsh feeling over my inability to make the cut, rather I'm excited at what I achieved within the shortest stay in camp,” the former Bayelsa United strongman told supersport.com."I know my recent return from injury and shortest call up put me at disadvantage but that's history now I'm fully recovered and I'll fight back to reclaim my spot in the team.

"I wish the team success in their endeavours, I'll ceaselessly pray for them as I'm still part and parcel of the team.

"I won't give up on the current form but consolidate on it believing that I'll have another chance during the 2014 World Cup qualifying matches,” he added.

Bright Dike, Akpeyi vow to make AFCON cut

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SA-based Bright Dike has said he hopes to make the final cut to the Nations Cup after he was picked for a training camp in Portugal.

"I am excited with the prospect of playing at Africa Cup of Nations for Nigeria. I will do my best to make the final cut,” the Portland Timbers forward told MTNFootball.com He posted an encouraging performance when he made his Eagles debut against Venezuela last month.

The player from the major League Soccer of the USA further said he will arrive Faro in time to be available for a January 2 friendly against Catalonia in Spain.

“I hope I will play against Catalonia,” he said.

Similarly, goalkeeper Daniel Akpeyi has said he is prepared to fight his way to the 2013 AFCON in South Africa.

Akpeyi is among the four goalkeepers named by manager Stephen Keshi in the 32-man provisional list for final camping in Faro, Portugal.

Others are Vincent Enyeama, Austin Ejide and Chigozie Agbim. It is believed that one goalkeeper will be dropped from the final list of 23 players for the Africa Cup of Nations.

"I'm fully ready for the task ahead and I'm determined to give 110% to ensure I grab a shirt in the AFCON squad.

Abdullahi : No AFCON pressure on Eagles

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PORTS Minister, Hon. Bolaji Abdullahi, was the surprise guest at Saturday morning training session of the Super Eagles at the training pitch of the National Stadium in Abuja along with NFF President, Alhaji Aminu Maigari, Barr. Musa Ahmadu, NFF Scribe, and Technical Director, Dr Emmanuel Ikpeme.

The Minister, whose office is now situated within the precinct of the National Stadium, breezed in unannounced midway into the training session that usually commences at about 6:45am. He took time to enjoy the training session and thereafter addressed the players.

Addressing the players, the Minister who was clad in white and green national track suits, told the team that President Goodluck Jonathan is interested in the welfare of the team and has asked him to offer his total support to the team as the countdown to the Nations Cup draws near. He also took time off to clear the air regarding the desperation in some quarters that the Super Eagles must win the Nations Cup or the team will be disbanded.

Said he: “There is no form of pressure coming from the Presidency or my humble self, but I have the belief in this team that they will do the nation proud at the Nations Cup. But we want the team to be relaxed and offer the best challenge when the competition starts in January.”

The Minister also promised to be personally in Faro, Portugal, where the team will camp for the championship to offer his support to the team ahead of the championship. He declared that he has absolute confidence in the ability of the team to represent Nigeria creditably at the tournament.

NFF President, Maigari, who accompanied the Minister, spoke in the same vein, but was more emphatic as he declared that he has total confidence that all things being equal the Super Eagles will emerge champions when hostilities cease at South Africa 2013.

…Maigari, Keshi promise good outing

Chelsea's Nigerian midfielder Victor Moses (L) vies with Swansea City's English midfielder Wayne Routledge (R) during the English PremierLeague football match between Swansea City and Chelsea at Liberty Stadium in Swansea yesterday. The game finished 1-1. AFP PHOTO/IAN KINGTON

•Super Eagles players celebrate their AFCON 2013 ticket against Liberia

AHEAD AFCON 2013

Lawal backs Keshi over preliminary squad

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ARBA Lawal, former Super Eagles' midfield Trojan has defended coach Stephen Keshi's exclusion of the trio of Taiye Taiwo, Obafemi Martins and Osaze Odemwingie from Nigeria's squad to the 2013 African Cup of Nations.

Taiwo, Martins and Odemwingie - veteran campaigners for the Super Eagleswere major casualties following the release of a 35-man list of players to battle for the available 23 spots on Thursday by Keshi.

But Lawal is of the view that the buck stops on Keshi's table, hence talking about exclusion of the trio is nothing but distraction.

"The truth is that we must respect Keshi over the players picked for the AFCON because he's the manager who has been given a work to be done," noted Lawal who scored the solitary winning goal for the Super Eagles' quarter final win against Black Stars of Ghana at the

AKPABIO SQUASH CHAMPIONSHIP

Akwa Ibom's SSG emerges as most improved player

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HE maiden edition of the Obong Godswill Akpabio's international Squash Championship successfully ended in Uyo, with the Secretary to the Akwa Ibom State government, Mr. Umana Okon Umana, adjudged as the state's most improved player.

The 3-day tournament which rounded off had 14 clubs in attendance, including Country

•Umana

Club, Lagos Altrafund Club, Jos and Port Harcourt Club, Rivers State. Other contenders were Aba Sports Club, Abia State, Canaan City Club, Cross River State, and Shell City Club. All together, there were 79 entries with 11 top Nigerian rated players in attendance.

Prince Imoh Ekpo, Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, praised Obong Godswill Akpabio, who was installed as the Pillar of Sports in Akwa Ibom State, for sponsorship of the invitational Squash Championship, disclosing that the initiative was a bold measure by the organisers to energise the sports sector by creating awareness about the game of squash.

He equally commended Obong Umana, who was awarded with the Most Improved Squash Player in 2012, for the camaraderie he has attracted throughout the invitational tournament and for promising on behalf of the governor that the championship will now be an annual fiesta.

By Morakinyo Abodunrin 2002 AFCON in Mali."Nigerians have repeatedly said national team coaches must be given free hands and we have to support Keshi because he alone knows the players that will be useful for this assignment."

He further noted that there are many factors under consideration before players are selected for a tournament of AFCON magnititude, adding that those picked must justify their inclusion since they have to contend against the best on the continent in South Africa next month.

"Football is never mathematics, and that is why it would be difficult to predict how far the Super Eagles can go," explained the vastly experienced Lawal who featured in four successive AFCON between 2000 and 2006 for Nigeria.

"There are no small countries again, as such the players must be ready to work for each other.

"The first match is the key to the progress of the team and they must approach each game as if it's a cup final.

"If they adopt such style, they will go far and we can only wish them the best," stated Lawal.

Keshi: Why I dropped Osaze, Taiwo

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OOR attitude cost top stars Osaze Odemwingie and Taye Taiwo a chance to fight for a place on the Eagles squad to the 2013 AFCON, reports mtnfootball.com It was learnt that Keshi defended his decision to drop Osaze and Taye Taiwo by citing the players' attitude with particular reference to the Nations Cup qualifier in February in Rwanda.

West Brom star striker Odemwingie was pulled off because he was below par, while Taiwo also posted a stinker as the Eagles posted a lacklustre goalless draw in Kigali.

Both players took exception to being hauled off the pitch and Odemwingie, for one, admitted this in a recent radio interview.

“Osaze confronted Keshi and told him that it was an insult for him to be so substituted as a senior player,” an official informed.

“We all know that Osaze is a big mouth and his attitude under various other national team coaches has not been exemplary.

Osaze has stood up to Eagles coaches, from Eguavoen to Lagerback and Siasia.

“Taiwo also threw caution to the wind after a very poor game in Kigali with a tirade aimed at the coaches and the entire team.”

Keshi, it was learnt, has forgiven both players after they showed remorse leading up to the AFCON, but he has insisted he would prefer to be in South Africa without them.

'The Big Boss' wants to be in full charge of his dressing room at all times.

Ukraine-based Taiwo begged for a second chance in his phone conversion with Keshi and lately he tried to put more pressure on the coach by taking his case to the people's court via the media.

Ideye prepares to fight for shirt

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YNAMO Kiev's Nigerian striker, Brown Ideye, is confident of making the final list of the Super Eagles team that will represent Nigeria at 2013 Nations cup in South Africa next month.

The 23-year- old striker has the highest statistics of performance at the club level this season with 13 goals and has been named in the preliminary 32-man squad of Super Eagles for camping, and the former Ocean Boys ace said he's ready to give it all and help the team in South Africa.

“I think this is the time to convince the coach more, I am ready to fight for the shirt, I want

to be part of the final squad, and not only to be there, but also to make an impact in the team.

“As it is now, there is no guarantee for anybody as far as the coach is concerned and this will make everybody to give his best. I am hungry of national competition and I wish to transform my club form for the team in South Africa.”

With 13 goals in 17 games, Ideye is the second highest goal scorer in the championship, five goals behind Shakhtar Donetsk's Henrikh Mkhitaryan. He plans to compete for the top scorer award in the UPL.

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THE NATION SPORT SUNDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2012

SPORT EXTRA

Anichebe, Pienaar shine in Everton's win

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VERTON clinched a deserved win after a battling display earned a 2-1 victory against West Ham at Upton Park yesterday.

The hosts took the lead in the 13th minute after Carlton Cole took a pass in his stride before spinning his marker and burying a vicious effort into the bottom corner, before Everton equalized in the second half through a delicately glanced header

by Victor Anichebe.

After Carlton Cole was sent off for a high boot after his clumsy challenge felled Leighton Baines, Everton took the lead after a superb move saw Steven Pienaar get the final touch inside the box, with Darron Gibson seeing red in stoppage time for a very similar foul to Cole's.

The hosts started the brighter of the two sides but it was Everton that went closest to opening the scoring, after Leon Osman was adjudged to have used his elbow before nodding home a Baines corner in the 11th minute.

Barry grabs dramatic win for Man City

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ANCHESTER City kept pace with title rivals Manchester United as they claimed a last-gasp victory over Reading thanks to an injurytime header from Gareth Barry.

The Premier League champions were in command for the vast majority of the game but were only able to make their advantage tell when the England midfielder headed in David Silva's left-wing cross in added time.

The hosts made the brighter start to proceedings and after halfchances from Carlos Tevez and Matija Nastasic, Mancini's men should have taken the lead but were denied by Adam Federici, who produced a superb close range save from Tevez after the Argentinian had latched on to compatriot Sergio Aguero's fine flick-on.

Reading defended resolutely following that early opening, and frustrated City for much of the first half, however the champions were able to create some opportunities, most notably when Gareth Barry powered a header towards goal from a Tevez cross, only to see his effort comfortably held by Federici.

However it was Barry who delivered the finale when he powered a header into the net with just minutes to play to maintan the Citizens title tilt.

Manchester City kept pace with title rivals Manchester United as they claimed a last-gasp victory over Reading thanks to an injurytime header from Gareth Barry.

The Premier League champions were in command for the vast majority of the game but were only able to make their advantage tell when the England midfielder headed in David Silva's left-wing

cross in added time.

The hosts made the brighter start to proceedings and after halfchances from Carlos Tevez and Matija Nastasic, Mancini's men should have taken the lead but were denied by Adam Federici, who produced a superb close range save from Tevez after the Argentinian had latched on to compatriot Sergio Aguero's fine flick-on.

•Sergio Aguero of Man City against Reading

Messi grabs 91st goal

... Barca beat Valladolid 3-1

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NBEATEN La Liga leaders Barcelona continued their record-breaking start to the season when Lionel Messi struck his 91st goal of 2012 in a 3-1 win at Real Valladolid yesterday.

The victory at Valladolid's Jose Zorrilla stadium was Barca's 16th in 17 league matches this term and restored their nine-point advantage over second-placed Atletico Madrid, who won 1-0 at home to Celta Vigo on Friday.

Barca have a La Liga record 49 points for this stage of a campaign and are 16 ahead of champions and arch rivals Real Madrid who are third ahead of their game at fourthplaced Malaga later on Saturday.

Valladolid kept a dominant Barca at bay until two minutes before halftime when Messi, who earlier shook the frame of the goal with a free kick, played Jordi Alba through on the left and Xavi turned his low cross into the net.

Messi uncharacteristically fluffed a simple chance early in the second half but the Argentine World Player of the Year doubled Barca's lead in the 59th minute with a trademark run and finish.

Arteta penalty seals win for Arsenal

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second-half penalty by Mikel Arteta earned Arsenal a 1-0 victory at Wigan Athletic yesterday to move the Gunners up to third place in the Premier League.

The Spaniard dispatched his spot kick past Wigan goalkeeper Ali AlHabsi after 60 minutes following Theo Walcott's tumble in the penalty area under a clumsy challenge from Jean Beausejour.

Arsenal's third consecutive Premier League victory moved them above Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea onto 30 points from 18 games although Tottenham can move back above their north

London rivals if they beat Stoke City later.

Wigan, third from bottom, had the best chance of a poor first half when Arouna Kone sprinted through on goal but dragged a left-footed shot wide.

Arsenal were more lively after the break and Walcott, who is still to sign a new contract for the club, was denied by Al-Habsi after he was picked out by Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain.

Wigan's response was impressive and they forced Arsenal into some desperate defending on a rain-sodden pitch.

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23-12-12

QUOTABLE "We are being misunderstood all the time. What we said was that we wanted to be given an observer status, if we can't participate so that we will bring a professional who will observe the process; how it is going on and brief the Governor's Forum. It is not that we passed a vote of no confidence on those who are investigating."

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2012 TRUTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM VOL. 7, NO. 2348

—Chairman, Nigerian Governor's Forum, Mr. Rotimi Amaechi making clarifications on why the Forum want to be involved in the probe of the helicopter crash that claimed the lives of lat Governor Patrick Yakowa and Gen. Andrew Azazi.

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HETHER Alhaji Umaru Musa Yar’Adua’s election is sustained or not, President Olusegun Obasanjo now knows it is clearly impossible for him to stay on in office. His ambitious manoeuvres to extend his tenure have been roundly and comprehensively defeated by the collective and unanimous spirit of Nigerians. Because of this, he hasn’t been as sprightly as he used to be or as radiant as his modestly passable looks could manage now and again. He has engaged in a feverish award of stupendous contracts and defended it as one who knows he has but a short time. But he knows he is going all the same. He has disembowelled his lay and clerical critics with as much venom as he used to produce in his early days in power, but he knows he can’t conceivably stay in power. He has begun to feel the same panic Gen. Ibrahim Babangida felt in his last weeks in power, and he is greatly discomfited by it. His smiles are less broad, his jokes lack colour and bite, and even the amiable rural aura that bathed them are thinner and inauspicious. He is more morose these days, more bitter against his traducers, and though he has not aged beyond his real (not official) age, he is distinctly ageing and aged.

Obasanjo hasn’t been quite as composed as even his critics would like. This tremulousness often comes with the realisation that one hasn’t lived up to expectation. And nothing illustrates this nervous composure as his winding defence on Monday of the April general elections and his rage against his critics, chief among whom was apparently Pastor Tunde Bakare. Though a newspaper reported that the president was unfazed by the criticisms against his administration, it was clear from his recent looks and the lack of passion and conviction behind his arguments that he felt unsettled by the much more vigorous and acerbic criticism of the foreign media. He tried to mitigate the effect of the criticisms from abroad by granting interviews to any sundry reporter who cared to travel down, but they were still unsparing. They not only wrote off the elections as fictitious and fraudulent, they even described him as a failure.

In the next two weeks and some days, Obasanjo will be going back to his expansive and now thriving farms and gilt-edged investments all over the country. He expects, naturally, to retire on good standing, a fulfilled, self-satisfied and adored statesman. I doubt whether his wishes can be granted. He is vow very wealthy, of course, but he has lived all his life posturing as a good and courageous man without taking one sound step to justify the name. Those steps he considered courageous were nothing but bold steps to alienate his friends and harden his enemies. As for whatever goodness he felt he had, no one knows about it, indeed, no one has seen it. Worse still, he will go back to his farm deprived of the customary goodwill that often accompanies a retiring leader loved by his people.

Nor will he have many friends to accompany him home. Even the billionaires and millionaires he has made early in his government and in the closing weeks of his presidency will carefully read the lips of his successor to know whether to fraternise with him or to freeze him out of their circles. He seems destined to retire to solitary and somnolent existent as well as bucketful of lawsuits and acrimonious controversies over land and shares, some of which were extracted on the pain of incarceration.

His views at the commissioning of the new wing of the National Assembly complex on Monday are quite instructive. His most salient view on the occasion is a typical reflection of the philosophical foundations upon which he has constructed his life, guided his ambitions, and wrestled his enemies. According to him, it is in the character of the Nigerian to whip up sentiments, controversies and disputations over elections. He had observed this since 1959, he said.

Beyond the mendacious characterisation of the Nigerian as habitually quarrelsome and insatiable, Obasanjo seems to be saying in another more vigorous breath that bureaucratic incompetence was ingrained in us. And so as he counsels us to accept our character of being controversial and disputatious and not allow anyone to come and say ‘rubbish’, he also defends slothful electoral conduct.

President Obasanjo has always been a poor student of history, perhaps because he is military-trained engineer. At the said commissioning, he asserted that “this was one election we had where nobody is talking about North or South… where nobody is talking about Chris-

A culture of disputation and controversy

•Umaru Yar’Adua

•Goodluck Jonathan

tian or Muslim, and where nobody is talking about ethnicity as a factor.” The president is very forgetful. During his own election both in 1999 and 2003, none of us could recollect ethnicity or religion being a factor. He was a Christian as Chief Olu Falae, Alex Ekwueme and a few others were Christian.

If he forgets his own election, the best election ever conducted in Nigerian in 1993 was perhaps the best chance we had to lay the ghost of religion and ethnicity to rest. Nigerians elected their candidates in 1993 without talking of the divisive factors Obasanjo thought was absent from his poorly planned, heavily manipulated and incompetently conducted 2007 elections. It was in fact his military constituency that arrested that political growth and sophistication. And from what we heard, it was an intervention he nodded and winked at. The president also failed to understand that a more pressing evil – rigging and manipulations – had distracted the electorate from

looking at and discussing the other factors surrounding the elections. Obasanjo’s government never wanted the elections to be free or fair, otherwise commentators would have looked at the value of a Jonathan Goodluck on the Yar’Adua ticket compared with the electoral weight of, say, Senator Ben Obi on the Atiku Abubakar ticket.

Contrary to the opinion of the president, we did not make any progress in 2007. None whatsoever.

It is ironical that Obasanjo ruled Nigeria for eight years but does not understand what Nigeria’s political culture Nigeria should be. Put more simply, he is unable to explain the functions of a political party in a country where there are other political parties and various interest groups. At the National Assembly complex commissioning, the president said of the PDP: “We as a party, we formed the party in such a way that the party will work in close collaboration with the members of the PDP and the Executive who are products of

the PDP.” The president must be reminded over and over again that he was neither at the formation of the party nor has he tried to imbibe the spirit and culture of the party. One the contrary, he led a ruthless takeover of the party and sacked all the principled political leaders who founded and led the party to its first victory in 1999.

This takeover explains why the party no longer has a moral or philosophical core, nor any principled leader to rally the country behind the ideals of the party. It explains why its leaders promote the principles of party brigandage, elevate expediency over morality, and canonise godfathers, strongmen, garrison commanders and a motley menagerie of political thieves and compromisers. It explains why even Obasanjo himself is more fanatically PDP than patriotic, though he is president of about 150 million Nigerians. Why the president can’t see these weaknesses of his, why he can’t rise above the pedestrian philosophy of a village party official, why he can’t tell the difference between party and country, is hard to tell.

These disabilities also explain why the foreign media have just arrived at the conclusion long reached by the local media, that Obasanjo did not make a success of his presidency. He was weighed down by party expediencies, bogged down in the maze of bitter fights with his friends, enemies and other passers-by, and entangled in many self-created moral, religious, cultural and political contradictions.

We must hope that the in-coming National Assembly dominated by the PDP will not be swayed by the president’s uninformed admonitions that the senators and representatives must show unalloyed loyalty to the PDP. Their loyalty, if we must remind them, is to the nation and its constitution. Their bond with their political party is to promote, not impose, the principles and ideals of the PDP, and to see how Nigeria can best be shaped into a great nation within the ambit of the PDP platform. The PDP legislators should discountenance the president’s threats and intimidation. If he was used to giving unlawful orders when he was in the military and he found soldiers to carry them out, he should be reminded that his broken reforms, discordant ideas and collapsed values all reflect his inability to comprehend the fundaments of politics and democracy. He will leave office with his head bowed, his heart bleeding, his mind suffused with regrets, and, if he likes, shudder at our mocking conclusion that he was a soldier and farmer who found himself in the wrong vocation at the wrong time.

•First published on May 13, 2007 under the headline “They say it’s our culture to be disputatious and controversial.” Palladium is under the weather and, feeling nostalgic, he wants readers to regale themselves with this piece from over five years ago.

Security Council: Text of Resolution 2085(2012) on Mali

T

HE Security Council, Recalling its Resolutions 2056 (2012) and 2071 (2012), its Presidential Statements of 26 March 2012 (S/PRST/2012/7), 4 April 2012 (S/PRST/2012/9) as well as its Press Statements of 22 March 2012, 9 April 2012, 18 June 2012, 10 August 2012, 21 September 2012, 11 December 2012 on Mali…

Reaffirming its strong commitment to the sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity of Mali, Recalling the letter of the Transitional authorities of Mali dated 18 September 2012 addressed to the Secretary-General, requesting the authorization of deployment through a Security Council resolution, under Chapter VII as provided by the United Nations Charter, of an international military force to assist the Armed Forces of Mali to recover the occupied regions in the north of Mali and recalling also the letter of the Transitional authorities of Mali dated 12 October 2012 addressed to the Secretary-General, stressing the need to support, including through such an international military force, the national and international efforts to bring to justice the perpetrators of war crimes and crimes against humanity committed in the north of Mali;…

Taking note of the final communiqué of the Extraordinary Session of the authority of ECOWAS Heads of State and Government held in Abuja on 11 November 2012 and of the subsequent communiqué of the African Union Peace

and Security Council on 13 November 2012 endorsing the Joint Strategic Concept of Operations for the International Military Force and the Malian Defence and Security forces;…

Emphasizing that the Malian authorities have primary responsibility for resolving the inter-linked crises facing the country and that any sustainable solution to the crisis in Mali should be Malian-led;…

I- Political process 1. Urges the transitional authorities of Mali, consistent with the Framework agreement of 6 April 2012 signed under the auspices of ECOWAS, to finalize a transitional roadmap through broad-based and inclusive political dialogue, to fully restore constitutional order and national unity, including through the holding of peaceful, credible and inclusive presidential and legislative elections, in accordance with the agreement mentioned above which calls for elections by April 2013 or as soon as technically possible, requests the Secretary-General, in close coordination with ECOWAS and the African Union, to continue to assist the transitional authorities of Mali in the preparation of such a roadmap, including the conduct of an electoral process based on consensually established ground rules and further urges the transitional authorities of Mali to ensure its timely implementation ;…

3. Urges the transitional authorities of Mali to expeditiously put in place a credible framework for negotiations with all parties in the north of Mali who have cut off all ties to terror-

ist organizations, notably AQIM and associated groups including MUJWA, and who recognize, without conditions, the unity and territorial integrity of the Malian State, and with a view to addressing the long-standing concerns of communities in the north of Mali, and requests the Secretary-General, through his Special Representative for West Africa, in coordination with the ECOWAS Mediator and the High Representative of the African Union for Mali and the Sahel, and the OIC, to take appropriate steps to assist the transitional authorities of Mali to enhance their mediation capacity and to facilitate and strengthen such a dialogue; 4. Condemns the circumstances that led to the resignation of the Prime Minister and the dismissal of the Government on 11 December 2012, reiterates its demand that no member of the Malian Armed Forces should interfere in the work of the Transitional authorities and expresses its readiness to consider appropriate measures, as necessary, against those who take action that undermines the peace, stability, and security, including those who prevent the implementation of the constitutional order in Mali • Palladium says Nigeria must insist on a political process in Mali before any adventure into that country. Surely we are not naïve to think war with AQIM can be fought and won over a short period.

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