The Nation December 30, 2011

Nigeria’s widest circulating newspaper

Osun gets N146b ‘budget of progress’ NEWS

Page 10

•N76b voted for capital projects in 2012

Security agents grill 17 Boko Haram suspects •To unravel Xmas Day bombing

NEWS

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TR UTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM TRUTH

VOL. 7, NO. 1990 FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2011

N150.00

XMAS DAY BOMBINGS

Church death toll hits 43 Bishop urges Moslems to tackle sect

SOME OF THE VICTIMS

SOME OF THE DEAD

From Yusuf Alli, Augustine Ehikioya and Jide Orintunsin, Abuja

T

HE cleric in charge of St. Theresa’s Catholic Church, Madalla, the Very Rev. Isaac Achi, yesterday confirmed the death of 43 parishioners and unidentified persons in the Christmas Day explosions at the church.

He also said 73 others are receiving treatment in 12 hospitals in Abuja, Madalla, Suleja, Zuba, Kwamba and Kubwa.

Rev. Achi, at a briefing in Madalla by the Catholic Bishop of Minna Diocese, the Most Rev. Martin Igwe Uzoukwu, said the census of victims continues.

Rev. Achi said: “Up till yesterday when I found it uncomfortable, I moved into a community and I was able to identify 20 parishioners that died in the explosions. This morning (yesterday), they brought in a list of 23 others confirmed to have died in the blast.

“Until you (the parishioners) provide information, we will not know all those who were affected. In spite of the list we have, we will still go out to take stock.”

According to the list re-

•Mrs Eucharia Ewon

•Scout Peter Ehiawaguan

•Mrs Uche Esiri

•Florence Nwadiukwu

•Ann Chinedu Aigbadon

•Faustina Pius

•Obasi Jonathan Onyebuli

•Mrs Onyinye Peace

•Joseph Daniel

•Chidera Sylvia Pius

•Cecilia Ebeku

•Inspector Titus Eze

Richard Dike, Lilian Dike, Lynda Chioma Ubiukwu, Uche Queen Obiukwu, Chidinma Cynthia Obiukwu, Linderlin Ifeoma Obiukwu, Ann-Chinedu Aigbadon, Chiemeri Nwachukwu, Cecilia Ebeku; Oluebube

Faustina Pius, Chidera Sylvia Pius, Florence Nwachukwu and Eucharia Ewoh.

Others are: Joseph Daniel, Inspector Titus Eze, Obasi Jonathan Onyebuchi, Ehiawaguan Peter, Uche Esiri, Sgt. Kadiri Danjuma

leased by the church, 27 parishioners and others died; 73 are in hospitals.

Of the 27, five are unidentified.

The dead are: Anthony Okoronkwo; Comrade Dike A. Williams, Emmanuel Dike,

•Anthony Okoronkwo •Dike A. Williams •Emmanuel Dike •Richard Dike •Lilian Dike •Lynda Chioma Ubiukwu •Uche Queen Obiukwu •Chidinma Obiukwu •Linderlin Obiukwu •Ann-Chinedu Aigbadon •Chiemeri Nwachukwu •Cecilia Ebeku •Oluebube Pius •Chidera Sylvia Pius •Florence Nwachukwu •Eucharia Ewoh •Joseph Daniel •Inspector Titus Eze •Obasi Onyebuchi •Ehiawaguan Peter •Uche Esiri •Sgt. Kadiri Danjuma •Five unidentified

and five unidentified Persons.

Rev. Uzoukwu noted that the death toll is more than 40.

He said: “Reflecting on the ugly and unfortunate but avoidable incident in Madalla, I stare at the fact

that we have lost more than 40 people with many others wounded, maybe maimed forever. They are in different hospitals in Suleja, Abuja Main Town and Continued on page 4

Jonathan to security chiefs

Go after Boko Haram sponsors

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RESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan yesterday ordered security chiefs to go after Boko Haram sponsors.

Dr Jonathan, according to State House sources, gave the directive at an emergency security meeting at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

The President specifically instructed his security team to fish out the sponsors of Boko Haram (Western Edu-

From Vincent Ikuomola, Abuja

cation is a sin), the group that has claimed responsibility for the series of bombings across the North.

The President was quoted as telling the security chiefs: “Go after those involved in his heinous act. We must stop this Boko Haram madness.”

The President’s action followed his promise to the leadership of the Christian

•From right: Ambassador Joe Keshi, ViceChairman, UBA Plc; Mr. Phillips Oduoza, GMD/ CEO, UBA Plc; and Chief Israel Ogbue, Chairman, UBA Plc, during the Court-Ordered Meeting in Lagos where shareholders approved a Holding Company structure for the bank ... yesterday

Continued on page 4

•AGRIC P13 •BRAND P15•SPORT P24 •SOCIETY P29 •POLITICS P43

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THE NATION FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2011

THE NATION FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2011

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THE NATION FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2011

NEWS

Jonathan set to overhaul security system

A

N insight was given yesterday into what the overhaul of the country’s security network promised by President Goodluck Jonathan will look like.

Chief of Defence Staff Air Chief Marshal Oluseyi Petinrin said the operational restructuring will likely take the form of movement of personnel and total overhaul of security network system to make them more proactive and responsive.

He spoke after a security meeting at the Presidential Villa. It was presided over by President Goodluck Jonathan.

The meeting was attended

by National Security Adviser (NSA), Gen. Andrew Azazi (rtd); Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. Gen. Azubike Ihejirika, Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Ola Saad Ibrahim; Chief of the Air Staff (CAS) Air Vice Marshal Mohammed Umar; Director General State Security Service (SSS), Ita Ekpenyong and Director-General, Nigeria Intelligence Agency (NIA), Olaniyi Oladeji.

The CDS said the President had taken a decisive decision that will be made public soon.

Inspector General of Police (IGP) Hafiz Ringim appealed to Nigerians to bring up evidence that will lead to the arrest and prosecution of sponsors of Boko Haram.

He said most of the arrested Boko Haram suspects are foot soldiers and not the sponsors.

Ringim appealed to Nigerians especially Christians not

President to security chiefs: go after Boko Haram sponsors Continued from page 1

Association of Nigeria (CAN) at a meeting on Wednesday night, that he will step up action against the Boko Haram menace Yesterday’s meeting was attended by National Security Adviser (NSA), Gen. Andrew Azazi (rtd); Chief of Army Staff

(COAS), Lt. Gen. Azubike Ihejirika; Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Ola Saad Ibrahim; Chief of the Air Staff (CAS) Air Vice Marshal Mohammed Umar; Director General State Security Service (SSS), Ita Ekpenyong and Director-General, Nigeria Intelligence Agency (NIA), Olaniyi Oladeji.

The President also reportedly directed

the NSA and the other security chiefs to embark on a thorough overhaul of their operational strategies in dealing with the Boko Haram violence, the State House source added.

He said Jonathan warned that the government will not spare any security officer who fails to act promptly on any information concerning the activities of the sect.

From Vincent Ikuomola, Abuja

to allow themselves to be frightened by the threats of Boko Haram to bomb churches on New Year’s Eve. He said those who want to attend cross over night services should not take the threat seriously, adding that his men are on top of the situation.

He said efforts made by the Police in Yobe, Kano and Kaduna prevented the catastrophe that would have taken place if they had not acted swiftly. He pleaded with the public to volunteer information and cooperate with security agencies to curb the menace of the extremists.

Ringim said the meeting reviewed “where we were, where we are now and where we need to be.”

He added: “We are all worried, terrorism is not an easy matter at all. Terrorism is everywhere all over the world, but as you are aware, it is a very new phenomenon here.

“We never had this kind of thing so”, we are all scrambling to find out feet and face it squarely. That is what we are doing. Security agencies and most importantly, the

us in order to get to the bottom of this matter.

“So far, we have arrested hundreds of them but that is not the issue, these people to my mind, are just the foot soldiers and we need to get strong evidence through the cooperation of members of the public so that we will be able to get to the leaders, masters and organizers of these people”.

Ringim appealed to Christians not to resort to self help over the latest rounds of bombing, saying, “Definitely, people are agitated and these Boko Haram terrorist groups are not attacking only Christians, they attack everyone that is on their way including members of the armed forces, the police and other security agencies.

“From among us there are Muslims and there are Christians. I don’t think it is a case of Muslims versus Christians against Muslims, that is why I am urging everyone of us to come together to lend a hand so that we can fight this scourge,” he said.

•Bishop of Minna Catholic Diocese Niger State, Rev Fr. Martin Igwemezie (right) with Chancellor of the Diocese, Rev. Fr. Malachy Ayoko-Shaba, at a news conference on the bomb blast at Madalla ... yesterday.

PHOTOS: ABAYOMI FAYESE

Nigerian police have made a lot of gains which have not come to the fore.

“I want to seize this opportunity to talk to everyone of us to remain resolved and resolute to join in the fight against this cankerworm that will not leave anyone of us if we do not put our acts together. What I mean by put-

ting over acts together, is by the Nigerian Police, security agencies and you journalists and all members of the public to come together.

“This is something that should galvanize us in our quest to remain together and also to bring down the scourge.

The IGP explained that “the

arrest of these terrorists has been going on for a long time.

Many of them have been arrested and many of them are in detention.

“They are in the process of being prosecuted. The issue is not the number of arrests; the issue is the cooperation that all the security agencies need from each and every one of

•Ringim ... yesterday

Death toll in Madalla Christmas Day bombing hits 43 Continued from page 1

Gwagwalada.

“I look at the destruction of St. Theresa’s Church edifice, which cost us millions of Naira and the surrounding buildings that cost their owners a lot of money and efforts to build. What a loss, a big loss indeed to all of us, irrespective of tribal, religious, economic or cultural affiliations. What wrong have we done to merit this treatment?

“We join all people of goodwill to strongly condemn the ugly and barbaric act which was targeted at innocent and peaceful Nigerians. I call this an act of terrorism levelled against my people who went to church to celebrate the Holy Day of Christmas, a day that Christians all over the world commemorate the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Divine Mercy Incarnate, the Prince of Peace and Love(Is 9:6, Jn 1: 14).”

The Bishop pleaded with Moslems to address the challenge posed by Boko Haram to the nation’s security.

He added: “I call on all my peace-loving Muslim friends to condemn publicly this act against us. I call on all our religious leaders, traditional rulers and custodians of the land in Niger State to stand up strongly against this Boko Haram group, who have claimed responsibility for this dastardly act against the good people of Niger State.

“Together, we will root out the evil that is coming among us. We all must put our hands on deck to take more proactive measures for the good of

our people and our nation.

“We need to restrain our people from acts of violence against other groups in our communities. According to the words of the Sultan of Sokoto, this is not a fight between Islam and Christianity, but a fight between good and evil.”

He pleaded with the Federal Government to be more pro-active in preventing crimes.

He said: “I direct my plea to the Federal Government to listen to the cries of Nigerians. Let them realise that it is the blood of innocent citizens that is shed on a daily basis.

“It is a known fact that the security agencies in Nigeria are trying their best. But their best is only determined by their training, equipment and modes of operation. These have been proved to be ineffectual in preventing violent crimes in the country.

“They need to be more proactive in preventing crimes before they are committed rather than their belated reactions to criminal activities.

Effective crime management falls under three stages: prevention, detection and prosecution.

“Offenders should be arrested, prosecuted and punished - if proved guilty. That will go a long way to reducing the escalating wave of criminal activities in our country.

“Prevention is always better than cure, hence it is better to detect and forestall a crime from being committed.

We request our governments

THE VICTIMS At the National Hospital •Paulina Koju •Chukwudi Umeh •Christiana Kadiri •Esther Agbo •David Agbo •Helen Okolo •Mercy Agbo •John Agbo •Obiukwu Uche Stella •Ebuka Abuyi •Celestine Aniowo •Michael Sunday •Lucy Unji •Chiamaka Obiukwu •Favour Dike •Chimaobi Dike •Favour Egbo •Maria Obodugo •Kosisochukwu Egbo •Nzubechukwu Pius •Obodo Linus •Austin Ogbuagu •Chuks Ajuwe •Esther Ibu •Blessing Philip •Isaac Ibu •Kenedilins Aloysus At Specialist Hospital, Gwagwalada •Innocent Okoronkwo (Intensive Unit) •Chima Ohazurume •Justina Uche •Chinyere Amaechi •Ifeanyi Emenaha •Fidelia Onugwu •Chinyere Anthony •Sadiq Idris •Onyinye Peace Eneh •Clara Umozor •Pauline Okoronkwo •Uche Bonaventure •Uche Michael •Lawal Abubakar •Victor James At General Hospital, Suleja •Owen Sylvester •Dalamin Isah (Passer-by) •Ali Sani (Passer-by) At Major Hospital Kwamba •Edeh Christiana At Delight Hospital Suleja •Roseline Okeke •Chisom Eucharia Okoye At Suzan Hospital, Suleja •Chukwuebuka Obiakor •Jennifer Obiakor •Chidera Obiakor •Batrice Otogo At Daughters of Charity, Kubwa •Oliver Ogbonna •Remy Ofoha •Francis Rapheal At Diamond Crest Hospital, Zuba •Gabriel Christiana •Michael Nwanze •Achunike Okolo •Favour •Ugochukwu •Nzube Pius at all levels to go the extra mile to fish out criminals at all levels, bring them to book and prosecute them.”

Responding to a question, the Bishop said: “We need to

go beyond words and move into action to ensure that our people live together in harmony and peace.

“My hope is that the Federal and State governments

will take care of the medical treatment of those injured either here in Nigeria or abroad. I hope that they will help to compensate those who lost their relatives and their property during the ugly incident.”

On the burial of the victims of the blast, he said: “It is not going to be a mass burial. We are going to bury our people after due consultations. I cannot tell you the date right here, but you will hear from us.

“You cannot just go and bury people like that. They have families; we need to find out where the families are; we need to contact them on the burial programme.”

The Bishop urged the parishioners not to be afraid to come to church to worship God, in spite of the explosions.

He, however, announced a modification of church service in the Kwamba Dinary (including St. Theresa’s Church) for the New Year’s Eve. The Bishop said: “If you run away from God, where will you run to? Come back, come back.”

“We have cancelled the midnight Mass for the New Year for all the churches in the Kwamba Dinary .Our tradition has always been to sleep overnight in the church for the New Year.

“But for the eve of the coming New Year, there is no sleeping in the church until January 1, 2012 in Kwamba Dinary. On December 31, you should come to the church at

4pm for service and by 6pm, it will be over. The church should make sure you talk to the appropriate authority so that they can bring back the curfew.

“But in the morning of Sunday, January 1, 2012, you should come back for normal service.”

Amid emotion from parishioners who were at the briefing, the Bishop asked them “not to seek vengeance”. “Let us forgive them and pray for peace and unity in this country,” he said, adding: “Let us spend one hour daily to pray for unity and peace in this country. Use the first 15 minutes to read the Bible, the second 15 minutes to use Rosary, the third for meditation and the fourth for Divine mercy and prayers.

“And if you are a Muslim, spend one hour also daily.

The first 15 minutes to read Quran and Hadith, the second for Takbir, the third to reflect and the fourth Divine mercy from Allah.”

Asked to reconcile the conflicting death toll figures, the Bishop said: “I went to the hospitals; I did not count them. My people have been killed and you are still worrying me. If you go to the mortuaries, you will see. I cannot count.”

On what the Catholic Mission is doing about security in churches, the Bishop said: “God is our security; unless God builds, the builder builds in vain. God is our safety; God is our security.”

ADVERT HOTLINES: 01-280668, 08070591302, 08052592524 NEWSROOM: LAGOS – 01-8962807, ABUJA – 07028105302 COMPLAINTS: 01-8930678

THE NATION FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2011

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NEWS ‘Service chiefs must resign’

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AGOS lawyer Mrs. Funmi Falana has said service chiefs should resign following their failure to stop the Boko Haram menace in the country.

She condemned President Goodluck Jonathan for showing less compassion for the victims of the Christmas Day Bombings which claimed several lives.

Funmi Falana, who is wife of Lagos-based Lawyer and human rights activist, Femi Falana, also said it was wrong for the Boko Haram members to vent their anger on innocent people.

Mrs. Falana spoke at the annual Children’s Party with the inmates of Erelu Adebayo Motherless Home in Iyin-Ekiti.

She said: “What is hap-

From Sulaiman Salawudeen, Ado-Ekiti

pening across the land is a sign of government’s insensitivity to the plights of its citizens .

“The people have lost confidence in the government and that is why they take laws into their hands whenever anything happens in this country.

“Our President is not even wearing a mournful look.I expect him to have appeared in black .Can he act in such a manner if a close relation of his had been involved in the attacks.”

The apparently enraged Falana said “As far as am concerned we don’t have an Inspector-General of Police in this country. The IG should have resigned because he had betrayed his own conscience too.”

Oil spillage: Senators decry poor funding of agencies •Mother of one of the victims of the Madalla blast, Scout Peter Ehiawaguen, being consoled by women at the St Theresa’s Catholic Church, Madalla...yesterday.

PHOTO: ABAYOMI FAYESE

I saw vision of Madalla bomb blast, says victim’s father

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MEMBER of St. Theresa’s Catholic Church in Madalla, Niger State, Mr. Daniel Igbla yesterday said that he had a premonition of the Christmas Day bomb blast.

Igbla, who stayed away from the Christmas Mass, warned his children on Saturday night not to attend the Sunday Mass.

But his children attended the Christmas Day mass, which resulted in the death of one of his children, Joseph Igbla.

The deceased had just secured admission into IBB University , Lapai. He was expected to resume in January.

Speaking during a news conference at the St. Theresa’s Catholic Church yesterday, Igbla, in tears, said: “As I am here now, I am not happy. I

From Yusuf Alli, Austine Ehikioya, and Jide Oritunsin

have not been happy since the incident on Christmas Day. That day was so terrible for me.

“On Saturday, I called my children and told them not to go to church the next day because something was telling me that problem is coming.”

He went on: “On the eve of Christmas, I went to bed and when I woke up in the morning, I discovered that four of my children went to church. I came out, stood and faced the church and started thinking. I went inside again and came out five minutes later and saw some of my children coming back from church.”

“They told me ‘Papa! Papa!

Happy Christmas’ and I was happy and played with them.

But within a twinkle of an eye, I heard of the explosion.

So, I told everybody to lie down. I later stood up and saw dust and billowing smoke. I say ‘Ah, e don happen o’. I started asking, “Where is my Joseph? Where is my Abraham?” But I was told that they were in church.

“I started going up and down. Later, Joseph was found lying in the pool of his blood. So, we took him to Lucas Hospital but before we got there he bled profusely.

And we later took him to Kubwa. Before we got to Kubwa, he could not talk again. If I call him, he could not respond. That was how he died.

“The Reverend Father has promised me that the church will take care of their burial.

I believe that since he died in

•Igbla ... yesterday

church burying Joseph in church will make me happy. I told my people at home but they have been calling me to bring my son’s body to them.

But it’s as if I don’t want to do that,” he added

Two women beheaded in Ogun

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HE joy of the Yuletide period was short lived for two families in Idolehin village, Ado-Odo Local Government area of Ogun State as two of their women were beheaded by unknown assailants.

The heads of the women, Funmilayo Awosah and Jodenu Ayinke, were taken away by their unknown as-

By Adebisi Onanuga

sailants.

The incident, it was learnt, took place during the night of the Boxing Day at Abule Babalawo, Idolehin Village in Ado-Odo. Residents said they have been having problems with some land speculators, who are terrorising them over land.

Detectives from the State In-

vestigation Department, Eleweran in Abeokuta are investigating the murder.

Spokesman of the Ogun State Police Command, Mr. Muyiwa Adejobi confirmed the incident.

Adejobi said the command has begun investigation into the murder.

The people of Idolehin village have been having a run-

ning battle with land speculators.

On June 29, a farmer in the village, Mr. Abiodun Ogungbe, was abducted in the presence of his wife and his dead body was later found by the roadside where it was dumped by his assailants.

Detectives are still conducting investigation into the incident.

By Wale Ajetunmobi

T

HE Senate Committee Chairman on Ecology and Environment, Senator Bukola Saraki, has said agencies responsible for monitoring the activities of multinational companies in the oil-rich Niger Delta are poorly funded.

Speaking against the backdrop of recent oil spillage in Bonga in the Niger Delta region, he said the Senate committee would ensure that global best practices in the oil region would be adhered to by oil companies operating in the area irrespective of the company involved.

He said any agency responsible for monitoring oil spillage in the region would be in a better position to carry out its regulatory functions if it is adequately funded and there are laws to assist it.

Saraki, who returned from an inspection of the oil spillage in Bonga, called for intense surveillance of the entire Niger Delta waterways to ascertain the extent and causes of oil spillage, which is doing incalculable damage to the economy and aquatic life of the region and its people.

He said: “We are a developing country but at the same time as a country we must see that the right thing is done.

But again as you know Rome was not built in a day, there are mistakes that have been done in the past in the regulatory sense, as you know in any environment any operator would behave according to the environment, that responsibility is now to ensure that we put the right kind of environment in place and the right kind of laws.

“So, we will do that and we would start that process. I think for long those ridges have not been tested that is why we find ourselves in this position, and that is why the agencies that are responsible for it will be given the tools in order to make them effective. There are very clear guidelines and laws that would guide us in these areas particularly to do with who is responsible. It is our intention that we will invite the oil companies and hopefully by then they would be in a better position to give us all the report of their assessment and based on that if there are needs to make amendments to law to strengthen them, we would do that for sure. “ Saraki further said: “I want to assure Nigerians and Nigeria too that we will make sure that we bring these standards home. We are a developing country but at the same time we are country that we must see that the right thing is done. “ But again as you know Rome was not built in a day, there are mistakes that have been done in the past but, as you know in any environment, any operator would behave according to the environment; that responsibility is now to ensure that we put the right kind of environment in place and the right kind of laws. So, we will do that and we would start that process.”

ACN to Fed Govt: debunk no-fuel-subsidy claim with facts

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HE Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) has challenged the Federal Government to either debunk, with facts and figures, a published informed analysis of the true prices of locally refined and imported fuel, or apologise to Nigerians for cheating and deceiving them over the years.

In a statement in Lagos yesterday by its National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, the party also said the National As-

sembly, as the true representatives of the people, must summon the author of the analysis to a public hearing, as part of efforts to reveal the truth about the so-called fuel subsidy.

It said the analysis, by an obviously well-informed industry insider/analyst, showed that the true price of a litre of fuel refined in Nigeria is N33.36, while the true price of imported refined fuel from the government's swap deal involving 275,000 barrels per day with

Commodity Traders is N34.45/litre.

According to the report, that means the average true price of a litre of fuel is N34.03, compared to the current price of N65 per litre which the government claims it is subsidizing at N73/litre, and the proposed new price of about N140/litre when the subsidy is removed. ''This has confirmed what our party and many well-informed groups and individuals have always said, that

there is no fuel subsidy, and that what the government has been claiming to be subsidising is corruption and inefficiency. ''It has taken an industry insider to use facts and figures to debunk the government's fuel subsidy claim, and to let Nigerians know that the government has indeed been overcharging them for fuel.

“While it may not be realistic to ask the government to refund all Nigerians who have been massively cheat-

ed, we call on the government to first apologise to the citizenry for deceiving and cheating them, and then follow up by selling fuel to them at the right cost,'' ACN said.

The party said: “The expose by the author of the article which, by the way, is a must-read for all Nigerians (thanks to The Guardian which published it on Wednesday, December 28, 2011) is precisely the reason why it has been calling for

a robust debate on the fuel subsidy issue, instead of the current choreographed consultations with 'stakeholders’.”

It appealed to other newspapers to publish the report to make it more accessible to Nigerians and further the debate on the subsidy issue, before a government that is obviously under external pressure railroads the citizenry into paying almost five times the true price of fuel.

THE NATION FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2011

6

NEWS Appeal Court affirms Dakingari’s election

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HE Appeal Court, sitting in Sokoto, yesterday affirmed the election of Kebbi State Governor Usman Dakingari.

The court quashed the judgment of the Kebbi State Governorship Election Tribunal, which nullified the governor’s victory in the April poll.

Leading four other justices of the Appellate Court, Justice Amiru Sanusi threw out the tribunal’s verdict, which ruled in favour of the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) candidate, Alhaji Abubakar GariMalam.

But the Kebbi State CPC Chairman, Alhaji Suleiman Nasiha, has vowed to appeal the verdict.

The Justice Mairo Laraba Yusuf-led three-member tribunal had, on November 13, nullified Dakingari’s election and ordered a fresh election within 90 days.

Unsatisfied with the tribunal’s ruling, the governor sought redress at the Sokoto Court of Appeal.

The Appeal Court ruled on three of the five issues which Dakingari had based his appeal on. The two others were ruled against him.

The Appellate Court

From Adamu Suleiman, Sokoto

quashed the cross-appeal of the respondents, including the CPC and its governorship candidate. They had prayed the court to declare gari-Malam the duly elected governor.

Justice Sanusi held that the cross-appeal was dismissed for lack of merit.

The appellants’ lead counsel, Mr Yakubu Mai-Kyau (SAN) said he accepts the verdict.

But counsel to CPC, Ogene Nero, rejected the verdict. He said the party and its candidate would go to the Supreme Court.

Nasiha said the party has begun arrangements to go to the Supreme Court within the 21 days, as specified by the law.

He said: “We will appeal the ruling of the Sokoto Court of Appeal on our cross-appeal and we will pray the Supreme Court to declare our candidate the duly elected governor of the state.

“Justice was not done in the matter and we are determined to seek redress at any level. We will redress the imbalance and injustice meted out to us.”

Security agents grill 17 bomb suspects

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ECURITY agencies are questioning 17 suspects arrested in connection with last weekend’s bombings in Damaturu, Yobe State.

The suspects, who were flown from the state to Abuja, are undergoing interrogation at a secret location, The Nation has learnt.

But it could not be immediately ascertained whether the suspects, who are said to have made “useful statements”, will be tried in Abuja or Damaturu.

According to a source in Damaturu, who spoke in confidence with our correspondent, the suspects are between the ages of 17 and 30 years.

The Nation obtained a list of 16 of the suspects. They are: Usman Mohammed; Ismaila Bukar; Ahmadu Usman; Abdul Abubakar; Danladi Umar; Ali Bello; Mohammed Ibrahim; Suleiman Mohammed; Bashir Bukar; Suleiman Rabiu; Adamu Magaji; Abubakar Sidiq; Hassan Adamu; Umar Hassan; Ibrahim Abdullahi and Adamu Adamu.

The source added: “We have

THE SUSPECTS •USMAN MOHAMMED •ISMAILA BUKAR •AHMADU USMAN •ABDUL ABUBAKAR •DANLADI UMAR •ALI BELLO •MOHAMMED IBRAHIM •SULEIMAN MOHAMMED From Yusuf Ali, Abuja

started interrogating the 17 suspects in our custody over Damaturu bombings. Some of them were actually caught during the crossfire between them and security agencies.

“The interrogation is a joint collaboration at all security agencies and the military. The inter-service synergy is being enhanced to tackle this violence once and for all.

“From those arrested so far, we have discovered that they have entrenched and experi-

•BASHIR BUKAR •SULEIMAN RABIU •ADAMU MAGAJI •ABUBAKAR SIDIQ •HASSAN ADAMU •UMAR HASSAN •IBRAHIM ABDULLAHI •ADAMU ADAMU

enced hands within Boko Haram who are indoctrinating and training them. Their age range is between 17 and 30 years.

“That is why the Police, the Army and other security agencies are determined to unmask the sponsors of these suspects.

“They have made useful statements which could assist our operation to get to the root of the Boko Haram menace.

Responding to a question, the source said: “They are be-

ing kept at a secret location.

We cannot tell you how long the interrogation will last.

“The truth is that we have launched a manhunt for other key suspects and some of the sponsors of the Boko Haram sect. They are taking advantage of the desert-like terrain to hide but we are not relenting.

“Contrary to insinuations, the police and the military were able to curtail the Boko Haram sect in Yobe State. That is a good sign that our security agencies are up to the task.”

Nigerian rapper murdered in U.S.

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YOUNG Nigerian rapper, Frank Ikechukwu Amobi a.k.a.

Frank Diggy, has been murdered by unknown gunmen in White Oak neighbourhood of Silver Spring, Montgomery County, United States.

The 24-year-old aspiring rapper was shot dead on December 27 around 6.30a.m at the 11400 block of Stewart Lane early Tuesday morning while on his way to work, reports wjla.com.

Montgomery County Police are still seeking a suspect and a motive for the killing.

The Silver Spring resident was pronounced dead on the scene.

Friends and family said Amobi was getting into his car and heading to work, as he did everyday.

The report said that at 6.48am on Tuesday, Montgomery County police responded to the shooting near a Metro bus stop. Amobi was found to have been shot several times. Bullet casings littered the street as police worked to determine whether the shooting was a random act of violence or if Amobi was targeted.

Sentos Bangura, who lives near the shooting scene, was confused by the sound of the shooting on Tuesday morning. “I said: ‘Could this be a gunshot sound, because I have not been hearing that since I came here. To be hearing it this morning, it was strange,” Bangura said.

British Foreign Secretary condemns bomb attacks

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RITISH Foreign Secretary William Hague has condemned the bomb attacks in some parts of the North.

In a statement by Hooman Nouruzi, British High commission in Abuja, Hague said: “I condemn today’s bomb

attacks in or near churches in Nigeria. These are cowardly attacks on families gathered in peace and prayer to celebrate a day which symbolises harmony and goodwill towards others. I offer my condolences to the bereaved and injured.”

Rep seeks love among Nigerians

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HE Chairman, House Committee on Legislative Compliance Maruf Akinderu-Fatai has urged Nigerians to shun violence and develop the spirit of love for their fellow Nigerians, irrespective of their ethnic and religious differences.

The lawmaker, in his New Year’s message to Nigerians, maintained that such renewed spirit of love would save the country from its current precipice, aggravated in recent time-by the spate of violence, especially in the North.

He hoped that Nigeria, despite being confronted with many daunting challenges, would witness the much desired positive change within an astonishingly short time only if people could change their poor, hostile attitude towards their fellow Nigerians and begin to see one another as one.

Fatai said people who live together in love tend to move forward faster than those whose life is characterised by hatred, adding that the spirit of love must be developed by any man who hopes to achieve greatness in life.

“I wish my fellow Nigerians a fulfilling new year. As we all begin a new year, we must all learn to develop the spirit of love for our fellow Nigerians and eschew all acts of violence, if we must progress individually and collectively.

“Hatred and violence are ungodly acts and whoever aides and abets such condemnable acts cannot get favour from God. I believe that whatever we plan to achieve in this New Year remain easily achievable for as long as we learn to do things in the spirit of love,” he added.

•Chief Akande (second left), Gen. Akinrinade (left) Mr Oshun (middle), Prof. Aina (second right) and Mr Afolabi...yesterday

Afenifere Group presents economic blueprint for Southwest

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HE Yoruba socio-cultural group, Afenifere Renewal Group (ARG), has presented an economic blueprint for the Southwest.

The document, which is in book form, is entitled: Development Agenda of Western Nigeria. It was presented on Wednesday to the National Chairman of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), Chief Bisi Akande, in his IlaOrangun, Osun State home.

ARG Chairman Wale Oshun said the structure of Nigeria has failed to serve the interest of the Yoruba people.

He said the group believes in common values and economic possibilities for Southwest states to advance the interest and future of the Yoruba race.

Oshun said: “To get an economic growth, we need to think of doing things right and get our values right. We are looking at governments in the Southwest to take the

From Adesoji Adeniyi, Osogbo

chance now to optimise the potential of the Yoruba people. So, we need to redefine and reposition ourselves to grow.”

He urged Akande and Lt.-Gen. Alani Akinrinade to use their positions, as respected elders, to prevail on the governors in the Southwest to grow the fortunes of their states.

Akande praised the group for serving as a think-tank for the governments of the Southwest.

At the presentation were: former Chief of General Staff, Lt-Gen. Akinrinade; former Director-General, National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), Prof.

Olu Aina; Mr. Femi Akande; Mr. Ayo Afolabi; Alhaji Lai Oyeduntan and Mr. Dipo Famakinwa.

No mass on New Year’s Eve in Madalla, says Bishop

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HE Catholic Bishop of Minna, Niger State, Rev. Martin Uzokwu, yesterday said there would be no New Year’s Eve Mass at St. Theresa’s Catholic Church, Madalla.

The cleric spoke in Minna against the backdrop of the suicide bombing at the church on Christmas Day. His order is coming on the heels of alleged threats by the Boko Haram Islamic sect to carry out more bombings.

From Jide Orintunsin, Minna

Uzokwu ordered all parishes in the Kwanmba Deaconry not to hold the traditional midnight service but meet by 4pm on the New Year’s Eve to pray.

He said: “I am directing all parishes in this Kwanmba Deaconry, including Madalla, not to hold an all-night Mass, as our practice, in view of the time we are in.

“On December 31, Mass

should hold by 4pm for members to thank God for the outgoing year. Everybody will observe the Passover night with their families. We are to converge again for Sunday service on January 1. Nobody is allowed to sleep in the church during this period.”

The bishop warned that the decision was not out of cowardice but the result of reality of the time.

According to him, the di-

rective is only for the Kwanmba Deaconry and not for the entire diocese.

The cleric urged Nigerians to pray for peace, saying one hour should be set aside by all Nigerians, irrespective of faith, to seek the face of God over the crisis the nation is facing.

Uzokwu, who condemned the Christmas Day attack on St. Theresa’s Church, noted that prayers would “heal our land”.

THE NATION FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2011

7

THE NATION FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2011

8

NEWS PRESIDENTIAL TUSSLE

How Supreme Court justices For his inability to adduce credible evidence to prove that President Goodluck Jonathan was not duly elected, the Supreme Court threw out the petition of Gen. Muhammadu Buhari, reports KAMARUDEEN OGUNDELE

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WO days ago the Supreme Court affirmed the judgment of the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal which declared President Goodluck Jonathan and Vice President Namadi Sambo winners in the April 16 election.

The seven-member panel of Justices chaired by the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) Dahiru Musdapher dismissed the appeal filed by the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) against the November 1 judgment of the lower court.

Jonathan contested on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). General Muhammadu Buhari was the CPC’s candidate.

In a unanimous judgment delivered by Justice Olufunlola Adekeye, the apex court held that the Appellant did not adduce credible evidence to discharge the burden of proof of evidence placed on it.

It noted that the petition, as argued by the Appellant, is a “civil claim which requires proof on the balance of probability or preponderance of evidence-Section 134 of the Evidence Act”.

According to Justice Adekeye, the petitioner must not only prove that there is substantial non-compliance but that it substantially affected the results of the election.

She noted that the Appellant at the Tribunal neglected its real enemythe PDP and Jonathan-who robbed it of victory at the election and instead joined issues with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Her words: “It strikes me as odd that throughout the conduct of the case in the petition, the appellant viciously pitched its tent against INEC to the neglect of his real foes; the 3rd, 4th and 5th respondents who deprived it of the victory at the polls and office of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and Vice- President.

“The Court must ensure that it holds the string or scale of justice evenly balanced between the parties so that justice may not only be done but manifestly be seen to have been done.

“There is, however, a distinct difference between the role of a trial court and that of an appellate court in the area of evaluation of evidence.

It is the trial court which alone has the primary function of fully considering the totality of evidence placed before it, ascribes probative value to it, put same on the imaginary scale of justice to determine the party in whose favour the balance tilts, makes the necessary findings of fact flowing therefrom, applies the relevant law to the findings and comes to a logical conclusion.”

On the claims by the CPC that the Presidential Tribunal wrongfully evaluated the evidence adduced before it by the witnesses it called, the Supreme Court said it lacked the power to interfere since the findings were made based on the credibility of the witnesses.

Justice Adekeye said: “The

‘

The plaintiff must, therefore, satisfy the court that upon the pleadings and cogent and credible evidence adduced by him that he is entitled to the declaration of right in his favour....the burden of proof generally in the sense of establishing a case virtually lies on the plaintiff or the initiator of a suit. He who asserts must prove what he asserts

‘

evaluation of evidence remains the exclusive preserve of the trial court because of its singular opportunity of hearing and watching the demeanour of witnesses as they testify and thus it is the court best suited to assess their credibility.

Where a trial court makes a finding on the credibility of a witness, an appellate court would not ordinarily interfere.

“It is trite that in a claim for a declaration, the onus is on the plaintiff to establish his claim upon the strength of his own case and not upon the weakness of the case of the defendant. The plaintiff must, therefore, satisfy the court that upon the pleadings and cogent and credible evidence adduced by him that he is entitled to the declaration of right in his favour.

“From the foregoing, the burden of proof generally in the sense of establishing a case virtually lies on the plaintiff or the initiator of a suit.

He who asserts must prove what he asserts i.e qui affirmat non a qui negat incumbat probat. The party who asserts in his pleadings the existence of a particular fact is required to prove such fact by adducing credible evidence. If he fails to do so, his case fails. A plaintiff would be expected to succeed on the strength of his own case and not on the weakness of the defence.

“On the other hand, if he succeeds in adducing evidence to prove pleaded facts, he is said to have discharged the burden of proof that rests on him. The burden then shifts to his adversary to prove that the fact established by the evidence adduced would not on the preponderance of evidence, result in the court giving judgment in favour of the party. The same burden is applicable to election cases. Until the plaintiff or petitioner has discharged the onus cast on him by law, the onus does not shift.”

The apex court also observed that

the appellant did not help its case when it requested for the original copy of some documents when only certified true copies could be obtained.

It also said: “On occasion when subpoenaed witness was available and documents to be tendered by them-appellant proceeded to close its case, contending that such witness was a witness of court.

Justice Adekeye recalled that witness statements of the CPC chairman, Prince Tony Momoh, and that of the National Secretary, Buba Galadima, were muddled up and the application to swap them refused by the Tribunal.”

She also noted that “of all the 47 witnesses called by the appellant, none tendered their voters cards to indicate that they wanted to vote but could not, owing to the absence of election materials. The roving agents and witness who claimed they analysed result sheets and voters register and found discrepancies in a number of voters register did not tender such report during the hearing of the petition. There was evidence that the appellant had polling agents all over the country but only six of them were called. The six agents who were called gave contradictory evidence. Any evidence produced by the appellant to rebut the presumption of regularity enjoyed by INEC by virtue of Section 168 of the Evidence Act 2011 (as amended) can only be rebutted by cogent, credible and acceptable evidence.

“A court of law can only pronounce judgment based on credible evidence presented and properly established before it. A court of law is not at liberty to go outside the evidence and search for extraneous evidence in favour of the parties.”

According to the panel, the Tribunal arrived at its judgment after concluding based on the oral and documentary evidence before it that the CPC had not successfully challenged the Jonathan’s victory at the April 16 election.

“The foregoing conclusion of the lower court was in the circumstance right, proper and unassailable. This Court has no justifiable reason to interfere with it. The appeal lacks merit and it is, accordingly, dismissed. The judgment of the lower court is affirmed. Consequently, the 3rd (Jonathan) and 4th (Sambo) respondents won the election conducted by the 1st respondent (INEC) on the said 16th April, 2011 and were returned by the 1st respondent as the duly elected President and Vice-President respectively of the Federal republic of Nigeria. No order as to costs,” the Supreme Court held.

Other Justices on the panel agreed with the judgment. They are Justices Musdapher, Mahmud Mohammed, Walter Onnoghen, Afolabi Fabiyi, Bode Rhodes-Vivour and Sylvester Ngwuta.

Justice Rhodes-Vivour held that the mix-up in the witness statements of Momoh and Galadima “eroded

whatever redeeming features the appellant had in the absence of an appeal against the ruling delivered on 12/9/11 remains inviolate”.

“With this scenario, there is hardly any chance of a successful appeal. In view of procedural blunders and the failure to attain minimum proof the appeal cannot succeed.”

Justice Muhammad said the petition was bound to fail, right from the first day it was filed. He pointed out that the reliefs of the appellant did not contain prayers that its candidate be duly returned as winner of the election, in case its petition succeeded or that INEC should conduct a fresh election.

“Where these two reliefs are absent, it is very difficult to conduct a fair trial. The members of the bar should be diligent and honest enough to face their clients and tell them the truth”, he added.

Responding, CPC’s Okpeseyi said:“The appellant had issues; it brought them and you have decided.

We thank you for your industry and we know that the judiciary will outlive all of us.”

The appeal arose from the November 1 judgment of the Presidential Election Petitions Tribunal, which declared that Jonathan and Vice President Namadi Sambo were duly returned as winners in the April 16 presidential election.

Adopting the brief of argument, Okpeseyi (SAN) told the panel that the tribunal wrongfully evaluated the evidence adduced before it by the party’s witnesses.

“The return of the 3rd and 4th (Jonathan and Sambo) and President and Vice President by the lower court was wrong and should be upturned by this court because it was unconstitutional,” he said, adding: “There was an application before the lower court that the PW1 (Buba Galadima) be recalled, but it was turned down on the ground that there was a mix-up in the evidence of the PW1.”

Counsel to Jonathan and Sambo, Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN), urged the court to dismiss the appeal, which he described as lacking in substance and merit.

According to him, the Tribunal’s ruling of September 12, which expunged Momoh’s statements after it was wrongly interchanged with that of Galadima, invariably rendered the petition null and void.

Besides, he contended that the notice of appeal was amorphous and generic as it disclosed no aspect of the ruling it was challenging.

“The case was dead on arrival,” he added.

INEC’s counsel, Onyechi Ikpeazu (SAN), also urged the panel to dismiss the appeal.

The Presidential Tribunal had

THE NATION FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2011

9

NEWS XMAS DAY BOMBING

PRESIDENTIAL TUSSLE

declared Jonathan winner

•CLOCKWISE from top left: Jonathan, Buhari, Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) legal teamMr. Oladipo Okpesheyi (SAN), Mr. Abubakar Malami (SAN) and Mrs. Mary Ekpere (SAN), addressing newsmen after the Supreme Court ruled that Dr. G o o d l u c k Jonathan was validly elected president, PDP chieftains who stormed the court, PDP council Alex Izinyon and Justice Musdapher.

PHOTOS: NAN

dismissed the CPC’s petition for lacking in merit.

In a one-half hour judgment delivered by the chairman of the Tribunal, Justice Kummai Bayang Akaahs, the panel said the petition failed in its entirety as the CPC could not discharge the burden of evidence.

In the unanimous judgment, the tribunal held that Jonathan and Sambo were duly returned by INEC, having scored the majority of the lawful votes cast.

The five-man panel ruled that the petitioner did not adduce substantial evidence to successfully prove its case.

“From whatever angle one looked at it, the onus is on the petitioner.

The petitioner did not discharge the burden of proof even when put on the balance of probability,” the tribunal ruled.

The CPC had asked the panel to cancel results of the election in 20 states and order a fresh election between it and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in 20 states.

The respondents are INEC, its National Chairman (Prof. Attahiru Jega), Jonathan, Sambo, PDP and the Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) for the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The opposition party had alleged rigging, arbitrary votes allocation

It’s victory for democracy, says Orji From Ugochukwu Eke, Umuahia

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BIA State Governor Theodore Orji has described the victory of President Goodluck Jonathan at the Supreme Court as a boost for democracy.

In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Ugochukwu Emezue, Orji congratulated the president. He said the judgment has put a final seal on the victory of Jonathan in the last general election.

Orji said the election was adjudged free and fair by the international community. The governor said Jonathan has shown that he is committed to developing Nigeria.

Orji urged the President to remain focused in his bid to transform the nation despite the challenges before him.

He urged all Nigerians, irrespective of their political affiliation to support the President. “He means well for Nigeria,” the governor said.

and substantial non-compliance with the Electoral Act and irregularities in Lagos, Bayelsa, Kaduna, Sokoto, Nasarawa, Kwara, Adamawa, Abia, Akwa-Ibom, Enugu and Cross River.

Others are: Rivers, Ebonyi, Bayelsa, Delta, Imo Anambra, Benue, Plateau states and the FCT. The party wanted the tribunal to hold that Jonathan and Sambo were not duly elected by majority of lawful votes cast at the election. But the tribunal dismissed the statement of the 47 witnesses called by the CPC

as “hearsay”, describing their evidence as worthless.

It dismissed the allegation that materials were deliberately not supplied early enough to Sokoto and other strongholds of CPC as “hearsay”.

It maintained that INEC has no power to release the electronic data base, demanded by CPC to prove its allegations of rigging and arbitrary votes allocation.

Justice Akaahs said that the tribunal reasoned that such electronic data base, if released to a

political party, would expose the secrecy of the election and, as such, would run against the law.

Justice Akaahs rejected the allegation by CPC that INEC used military vehicles to convey sensitive election materials to states.

He said: “I don’t think there is anything illegal in using the police and Army in transporting sensitive materials, if it is to ensure security.

Besides, he pointed out that the allegations against security personnel and evidence against them must be discountenanced since police and Army were not made parties to the petition.

Citing Jigawa State, the panel said if it was true that voters were not duly accredited before election, then the “vote registered for CPC and PDP ought to be cancelled”.

Justice Akaahs said for the petition to succeed and the allegation of substantial non-compliance to be sustained, “the court must be satisfied that it will affect greatly the outcome of the result”.

“The petitioner must prove that it substantially affected the result of election. The petitioner will only succeed if it was able to prove that it disenfranchised a particular number of voters.

“From whatever angle one looked at it, the onus is on the petitioner.

The petitioner did not discharge the

burden of proof even when put on the balance of probability”, the tribunal ruled.

“From the painstaking scrutiny of the petition and totality of the evidence adduced on alleged corrupt practices such as rigging which was done in passive connivance with first respondent sharing of money to presiding officers who assisted in multiple thumb printing and allocation of votes to the fifth respondent with a view to confer undue advantage on the third and fourth respondents, the result of the election was not successfully challenged”.

“The third respondent scored the majority of lawful votes cast at the election in at least two-third of the states.

“The petition fails in its entirety it is hereby dismissed. There shall be no order as to cost,” the Tribunal held.

For Buhari, the judgment was politically-motivated. He said: “This decision of the Supreme Court is politically motivated and has little judicial content. This Supreme Court has proved no better than the Supreme Courts of 2003 and 2007.”

But, Jonathan and his supporters said it was justice well-dispensed.

They believe it is time for Buhari to sheathe the sword and support the administration.

10

THE NATION FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2011

NEWS Declare Boroffice’s seat vacant, Ondo Assembly urges Mark From Damisi Ojo, Akure

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he Ondo State House of Assembly yesterday urged Senate President David Mark to declare the seat of the senator representing Ondo North District, Prof. Ajayi Boroffice, vacant, following Boroffice’s resignation from the Labour Party (LP).

Boroffice joined the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) on Wednesday. He hinged the reason for his defection on internal crisis within the LP. Majority Leader Dayo Akinsoyinu moved a motion that Boroffice’s seat be declared vacant yesterday on the floor of the House. The lawmaker, who represents Ondo West II, urged the Senate to conduct a by-election into the vacant seat within a stipulated time.

He said there is no crisis in the LP as alleged by Boroffice.

Citing Section 68, Subsection 3 of the constitution, Akinsoyinu described the professor’s defection as “unconstitutional, null and void.”

He said: “Even if you want to leave a party, there is no need to run down a party that gave you your senatorial ticket.”

The motion was seconded by Mr. Folajimi Olaseinde representing Ose constituency.

About three weeks ago, a faction of the LP met at Helena Hotel in Akure, the state capital, and a former lawmaker, Mr. Kunle Odidi, was elected chairman of the party.

A week later, another faction conducted a parallel election, which was presided over by the National LP Chairman, Mr. Dan Nwanyawu and a lawyer, Mr. Olu Ogidan, emerged chairman.

The state government recognises Ogidan as the party’s chairman. It said Odidi is a member of the Sunshine Liberation Forum (SLF), which it claims is being promoted by an opposition party.

Jonathan lacks direction, say Lagos lawmakers

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AWMAKERS at the Lagos State House of Assembly yesterday condemned a statement credited to President Goodluck Jonathan that “terrorism is a burden Nigerians would have to live with.”

They said the President has failed the people and lamented his “inadequate response” to critical challenges.

Speaking with House correspondents on the Christmas Day bombings, the House Committee Chairman on Information, Olusegun Olulade, said: “If the President could say that terrorism is a burden we have to live with, then he has lost control. It shows that Jonathan lacks direction and has no reason to be President.

“Judging from his actions and words, it would not be out of place to say Nigeria does not have a federal government. What do we expect when it was actually ‘good luck to you, good luck to me’ that we voted for?

“In the days of the National Republican Convention (NRC) and Social Democratic Party (SDP), we saw Chief Bashir Tofa confront the late Moshood Abiola in a debate that was classified as world class, discussing issues that had

By Oziegbe Okoeki

to do with the masses.

“That was not what we saw this time because Jonathan’s party does not have a manifesto.”

He suggested community and state policing as the solution to terrorism.

Chairman, House Committee on Education, Science and Technology, Wahab Alawiye-King said though terrorism has become a global challenge, the statement credited to the President is bad.

He said: “I am still at a loss as to why the President made such a statement. Terrorism is not a burden we have to live with.

“The American Government warned Nigeria about the Christmas Day bombings and advised people to avoid crowded places. Our failure to prevent the explosions show intelligence in Nigeria is poor.

We need to be more vigilant.

This is also the right time to convene a stakeholders’ meeting.”

Chairman, House Committee on Physical Planning and Urban Development, Mufutau Egberongbe said: “The President has failed everyone”.

•Aregbesola (left) during the presentation...yesterday. With him are Speaker Najeem Salam and Deputy Governor Mrs. Titi Laoye-Tomori.

Osun proposes N146b budget for next year

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SUN State Governor Rauf Aregbesola yesterday presented a budget proposal of N146,674,283,140 to the House of Assembly for next year.

The proposal is tagged, “Budget of Service and Progress.”

Aregbesola projected that the state will receive N146,674,283,140 as statutory revenue from the federation account, including statutory allocation, Value Added Tax (VAT), Excess Crude oil proceeds, exchange rate gain and a capital receipt of N58,640,215,512.

The proposed 2012 Budget comprises: Personnel cost, N28,375,905,405 (19.36 per cent) and Overhead, N16,750,453,770 (11.45 per cent).

Recurrent expenditure is expected to get N70,095,940,620 (47.83 per cent) and capital expenditure, N76,033,280,520 (52.17 per cent).

Aregbesola said his administration would execute many projects next year.

He said: “The attention of our administration in the last 12 months has been focused on laying a solid moral foun-

From Adesoji Adeniyi, Osogbo

dation, upon which our developmental programmes will be based.

“The proposed 2012 budget has been carefully packaged for the effective realisation of our vision as encapsulated in our Six-Point Integral Action Plan.

“It is necessary to note that sceptics have been confounded in the last one year by the strings of achievements recorded by this administration in the maintenance of law and order, agricultural revolution, our empowerment programmes, environmental planning and beautification, etc.

“With God on our side, I assure the good people of this state that our achievements in the outgoing year are going to be a tip of the iceberg, given the target we have set for ourselves next year.”

Aregbesola said he would give priority to mass food production and encourage agro-allied industries as well as private sector participation.

Committee recommends ban on motorcycles in Lagos

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HE Lagos State Security Committee has submitted its report on the effects of motorcycle operation on security, to Governor Babatunde Fashola.

It recommended the ban on motorcycles.

Presenting the report to the governor at the Lagos House, Ikeja, committee Chairman, former Deputy InspectorGeneral (DIG) of Police Mr. Olusegun Kazeem, said motorcycle operation constitutes both security and health hazards.

He said 492 robberies were executed with the aid of motorcycles between January and November, with 79 of the cases occurring in October and November.

Kazeem said: “17 of 20 robberies are committed by mo-

By Miriam Ndikanwu

torcyclists. The spate of motorcycle accidents is high. At the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), Ikeja, 179 cases were recorded in October and November.

Of the 179 cases, 170 of the victims were passengers.

“At the Toll Gate Emergency Centre, 41 motorcycle accidents were recorded in two months. In the combined report from 20 government hospitals, 1,039 cases were recorded in the last two months.

This statistics excludes motorcycle accident cases handled by private hospitals, tradomedical centres and self medication.

“The Lagos State Traffic Management Agency (LASTMA) also has a record of 1,008

traffic violation by motorcyclists.”

On health hazards, the committee chairman said the pollution caused by motorcycle emission exposes residents to respiratory diseases.

He said: “Air pollution also contributes to the depletion of the ozone layer, which invariably causes excessive heat and flood as experienced in Lagos recently.”

Kazeem said the air and noise pollution caused by motorcycles have long term adverse effects on respiratory and auditory organs.

He also said the use of one helmet by all passengers can transfer diseases and motorcycle engines can damage the male genital organ and lead to impotence.

Kazeem said although

motorcycle operation has created jobs and generated revenue for the government, its disadvantages outweigh its benefits.

He said: “The incalculable cost of loss of lives, injuries and crimes cannot be compensated for by its economic benefits. Government must be ready to forgo the revenue accruing from issuing licences and rider’s card to operators in order to seriously confront the menace of motorcycle operation.”

Kazeem said alternative means of transportation must be provided, if motorcycles are banned.

Fashola thanked the committee. He said the Executive Council would deliberate on the report at its next meeting.

PDP inaugurates transition committees in Ekiti, Ogun

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RANSITION committees were yesterday inaugurated in Ekiti and Ogun states to manage the affairs of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) till next year.

Former Minister of State for Energy Mr. Babatunde Odusina is the head of the committee in Ekiti State and Princess Fakunle Okieimen is the Secretary.

Members are Chief Bodunde Daramola, Mrs. Bola Oloyede, Mr. Olanrewaju Omolase, Mr. Diran Adesua and Prince Aderogba Agbaje.

The committee would work with the Chief Bola Olu-Ojo-led state executive .

After the inauguration at the party secretariat in Ado

•Court restrains Ogun team From Sulaiman Salawudeen, Ado-Ekiti Ernest Nwokolo, Abeokuta

Ekiti, the state capital, Odusina said the state executive’s tenure will end on January 7 and it would be wrong to allow it handle matters relating to the conduct of the next congress.

Regretting the poor performance of the PDP in the Southwest in the last election, he said: “We have to amend our ways and prepare for the next election, so that we can make a mark.

“This committee is expected to reconcile aggrieved members and conduct the congress that would produce the next state executive.

“The committee would be

fair in handling all matters, so that the party can have a united front to deliver in the forthcoming election.

“We are credible members of this great party that cannot be pushed around by anybody. So we are assuring our people that this committee will uplift the party’s fortunes.”

Chief Bode Mustapha is the chairman of the committee in Ogun State.

Members are Mr. Titus Eweje, Mr. Fasiu Bakene, Mr. Gbenga Shobowale, Mr. Dipo Odujirin, Mr. Michael Fasinu, Mr. Dayo Adebayo, Deaconess Iyabo Apampa and Mr. Segun Sowunmi.

Barely an hour after the committee’s inauguration, a

Federal High Court, sitting in Lagos, restrained it from functioning.

The restraining order is sequel to a suit filed before the court by Chief Dayo Soremi, Mr. Bayo Dayo and Mr. Taiwo Abisekan against members of the transition committee.

There was a drama at the Goodluck Jonathan/Sambo Campaign Office in Abeokuta, venue of the inauguration, as the court bailiff tried to serve the court process on the committee members.

Eweje, Bayo and Sowunmi were served the court process, but Mustapha and four others were no where to be found. Mrs. Apampa was absent at the inauguration.

Narrating his experience to The Nation, the bailiff said: “When I got there to serve them, I met a lady at the reception. The lady wanted to allow me to enter the room where they were meeting, but one man said I should not be allowed in. I walked out of the reception and waited for them outside.

“When they finished the meeting, I approached them, but they were running.

“I went into the chairmans office, but he had left through the back door. He ran into his car and drove off. I was only able to serve three members.”

Earlier, at the inauguration, Mustapha urged the committee members to be

unbiased in their dealings with former members who are willing to return to the PDP. He said: “Everybody has tested his or her powers individually and we have all found out that we have to work together. It is not a question of I do not want to see Mr. X,Y,Z or cannot do business with Mr. A,B,C. “If we want to win again in the Southwest, we must work together. I pity members of this committee, including myself, because it is not an easy task. But if we are able to achieve it, and I’m sure we will, God willing, our names will go down in history as having achieved what seems unachievable; that is bringing back the PDP of old.”

THE NATION FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2011

11

BUSINESS THE NATION

E-mail:- bussiness@thenationonlineng.net

The migration to digital broadcasting will open up opportunity for indigenous ICT firms to manufacture at least 20 million set-top boxes when the process starts.

- Mrs Omobola Johnson, Minister of Communications and Technology

Ghana to cut fuel subsidies

NNPC dollar sales stabilises naira

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T

HE naira closed marginally lower yesterday, inching down in late trade as importers bought dollars to meet year-end obligations.

The local currency according to Reuters News closed at N163.10 to the dollar compared to N163.05 on Wednesday, traders said.

“We still have some demand from companies trying to balance their dollar accounts for the year, but increased (dollar) inflows also helped to check the decline of the naira,” one dealer said.

Traders said the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) sold about $350 million on Friday, its second such transaction this month, and dollar inflows from some foreign investors also helped to provide liquidity.

“Demand (for dollars) should slow down in the near term and the naira hold steady until the reopening of the official (Central Bank of Nigeria) window next week when a new direction for the currency could be established,” another dealer said.

Bonga spill supports Nigerian grades

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IGERIAN crude oil differentials held near two-month highs yesterday as the absence of a restart date on the Bonga offshore facility helped lend support in an otherwise quiet market.

Royal Dutch Shell said this week that an oil spill offshore Nigeria, the largest in the oil-producing nation since 1998, has been contained but the firm has not yet given a restart date.

“It is too soon to say. We will investigate, carry out any necessary repairs and restart when safe to do so,” said a Shell spokesman yesterday.

DATA STREAM COMMODITY PRICES Oil -$107/barrel Cocoa -$2,686.35/metric ton Coffee - ¢132.70/pound Cotton - ¢95.17pound Gold -$1,800/troy ounce Rubber -¢159.21pound MARKET CAPITALISATIONS NSE JSE NYSE LSE

-N6.503 trillion -Z5.112trillion -$10.84 trillion -£61.67 trillion RATES Inflation -10.5% Treasury Bills -7.08% Maximum lending-22.42% Prime lending -15.87% Savings rate -2% 91-day NTB -15% Time Deposit -5.49% MPR -12% Foreign Reserve $33.01b CFA EUR £ $ ¥ SDR RIYAL

-

FOREX

0.2958 206.9 242.1 156 1.9179 238 40.472

• Former Director-General, Voice of Nigeria (VON), Chief Taiwo Allimi (left); the Ogirimadagbo of Ilodo, Ogun State, Oba Isiaka Olajide Ajede; Nollywood actress, Mrs. Abiola Atanda, aka Madam Kofo; and the Executive Vice Chairman, Industrial and General Insurance (IGI) Plc, Mr. Remi Olowude, during the command performance of Oba Koso, at the MUSON Centre, Lagos… on Tuesday.

S&P raises Nigeria’s outlook to positive S

TANDARD & POOR’s ratings agency yester day upgraded Nigeria’s economic outlook from stable to positive, citing key reform initiatives embarked upon by the government.

Specifically, the agency noted that the Nigerian government under President Goodluck Jonathan has been undertaking several important reform initiatives and is tightening its fiscal and monetary stance.

“The authorities have restructured and strengthened the banking sector, and we expect economic growth to remain strong. We are revising our outlook to positive from stable.., the agency said.

The outlook revision it said indicates that there is at least a one-in-three likelihood of an upgrade if Nigeria’s reform initiatives support economic growth, build stronger buffers against Nigeria’s depen-

By Ayodele Aminu, Group Business Editor

dence on petroleum revenue and reduce pressure on the exchange rate.

The agency also reaffirmed the country’s B+/B long- and short-term issuer credit ratings.

Nigeria has been pursuing economic reforms including a controversial measure to cut fuel subsidies, which the government says has amounted to more than $8 billion this year.

Economists and government officials view the move as essential to allow for more spending on the country’s woefully inadequate infrastructure and to ease pressure on its foreign reserves.

Nigerians however, view the subsidy, designed in part to hold petrol prices at N65 naira per litre ($0.40, 0.30 euros), as their only benefit

from the nation’s oil wealth.

The governor, Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Lamido Sanusi Lamido has also led sweeping bank reforms seen as having pulled the sector out of crisis. Finance Minister Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala is a highly respected former World Bank managing director.

Besides, Nigeria has recorded strong Gross Domestic Products (GDP) growth rates over the past few years and has tightened its fiscal and monetary stance by reducing projected fiscal deficits and by raising its monetary policy rate. The Federal Government also plans to cut fuel subsidy.This is one of several important reform initiatives President Jonathan has promoted since he succeeded late President Yar’Adua in February 2010.

The government also aims to

improve predictability and transparency in the oil sector by drafting and passing the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB), and plans an overhaul of the electricity sector that should reduce power supply constraints.

However, the Nigeria has also seen worsening violence blamed on Islamists and warnings from the Christian population that they will defend themselves against further attacks. Standard & Poor’s noted concerns over the situation.

Nigeria relies tremendously on the oil industry for revenue, and the ratings agency pointed out that crude exports accounted for 72 per cent of current account receipts in 2010.

Commenting on the positive outlook, Managing Director of Financial Derivatives Limited, Bismark Rewane, said it is a positive development that will make cost of borrowing less for the country.

2011 budget: Fed Govt ends recurrent spending today

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ESPITE the insistence of the National As sembly that the 2011 financial year would end on March 31, 2012, the Federal Ministry of Finance has gone ahead with its plans to close the books on the 2011 budget tomorrow.

The Nation learnt that the recurrent arm of the 2011 budget will be effectively closed to further withdrawals today, being the last working day of the year.

The Coordinating Minister of the Economy and Minister of Finance, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, had at her 2012 budget breakdown, disclosed that the 2011 budget will be closed on December 31, 2011 in line with international best practices

From Nduka Chiejina, Asst. Editor

A source at the Budget Office of the federation that the recurrent budget for 2011, will be closed on December 31, 2011, but since the last working day of the year is today, the recurrent budget for 2011 will be closed.”

The source also added that the decision of the National Assembly to extend the financial yearend for 2011 to March 2012, did not come as a surprise, as the office has prepared itself for such a development. It added that in previous years, the financial year end for recurrent aspects of the budget have always ended on the 31st of December, so

the ministry of finance and the budget office had prepared to continue with the practice.

A senior official of the Ministry of Works admitted that they had fought to extend the financial year-end for 2011 to March 2012 because there are lots of projects to be executed with allocations from the budget.

He said there were many projects to be executed under the 2011 budget which are on-going and “needed to be executed up to an appreciable level under the 2011financial year.” One of such projects, he pointed out, is the expansion of the AbujaLokoja expressway for which provision was made in the

2011 budget and for which work is in progress.

In the 2012 budget, this same project is captured under several headings such as: “on-going projects construction of highways: Abuja-Abaji road (section 1, international airport link road junction-Sheda village junction) c/no.5862 valued at N2,000,000,000; AbujaAbaji road (section 11, sheda village junction-Abaji) c/ no.5863 valued at N2,000,000,000; AbujaLokoja road section iii (Abaji-Kotonkarfi) c/ no.5884 valued at N2,000,000,000 and the Abuja-Lokoja road section iv ( Koton karfi-Lokoja c/ no. 5885 with a price tag of N2,000,000,000.”

HANA has cut fuel subsidies following an increase in crude oil prices and the depreciation of the Ghana cedi currency, the head of Ghana’s National Petroleum Authority (NPA) said in a statement yesterday.

Ghana, which joined the club of oil producers in West Africa last year, has come under increased pressure from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to remove the fuel subsidies.

The IMF has urged countries across West and Central Africa to cut fuel subsidies, which they say are not effective in directly aiding the poor, but do promote corruption and smuggling.

The past months have seen governments in Nigeria, Guinea, Cameroon and Chad moving to cut state subsidies on fuel.

Alex Mould the Chief Executive Officer of the NPA, said the cumulative effect of the rise in crude oil prices this year and the about 5.7 per cent depreciation of the cedi meant a 25 per cent increase in cedi terms in the cost of procuring crude oil and petroleum products since January.

Mould said Ghana has spent about 450 million cedis ($276 million) on fuel subsidies in 2011.

The price change effective from December 29, will see the cost of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) increase by 30 per cent while petrol and diesel will go up 15 per cent at pump.

NIGCOMSAT-1R arrives orbital home From Gbenga Omokhunu, Abuja

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EVEN days after it was launched into the orbit, Nigerian Communication Satellite (NIGCOMSAT1R,) - Nigeria’s replacement communications satellite has been placed in its orbital home, it was learnt yesterday.

A statement from NIGCOMSAT said the satellite will remain there for the next 15 years when its lifespan is expected to expire.

The satellite was built on a DFH-4 platform and was successfully launched on a Long March 3B/E launch vehicle into the geo-transfer orbit (GTO) on Monday, December, 19, 2011, from Xichang satellite launch centre in China.

After the separation of the satellite from the launch vehicle, the satellite according to the statement, was injected into the geo-transfer orbit and subsequently began its journey to the final orbital position of 42.5degree East in the GEO-stationary orbit.

This operation, which is referred to as Launch and Early Orbit Phase (LEOP) operations of the satellite lasted for one week with about five orbital maneuvers carried out successfully.

THE NATION FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2011

12

BUSINESS NEWS

Fed Govt to create 2m jobs in 2012 T

HE Minister of Science and Technology, Prof.

Ita Ewa yesterday said that about two million jobs will be delivered to Nigerians through the ministry’s Cluster Concept.

This is aimed at fast-tracking development of rural communities in Nigeria.

Ewa, who disclosed this in Abuja at the 2011 ministerial press briefing, said the Ministry has informed President Goodluck Jonathan on the use of cluster concept in developing our rural communities.

His words: “The Ministry is to forward a Council Memo to the Federal Execu-

From Gbenga Omokhunu, Abuja

tive Council for approval.

This project will eventually generate at least 2,000,000 jobs in many sectors of the economy, in 2011 and 2012 using the Ministry’s incubation programme, industrial cluster programme, technology licensing and technology franchising.

“Beyond this, potential jobs to be created by the concept on incremental basis will net up to six million jobs through mainstream industrial activities and two million jobs through

backward stream made up of primary producers of, and traders in, raw materials, farm gate processors, small scale miners, transporters of raw materials, providers of primary production inputs.

“Also 18 million jobs are expected downstream made up of distributors, retail traders, exporters of finished products, producers of processing equipment/machines, components and spare parts, maintenance technicians, producers of packaging materials, technical and R&D consultants and business development support services (BDS) providers. To

achieve this, the ministry will adopt a phased approach. The jobs will be created along commercialisation lines. The Ministry will launch deliberate strategy to commercialise all the concluded R&D projects in the Ministry and altogether, over 26 million jobs will be created through these and other R&D projects,” he said.

The minister therefore called on investors, private sector operators, conglomerates, commercial and financial institutions to take up these novel outputs from the research institutes so that Nigeria can attain the vision

20:2020, MDGs as well as the Transformation Agenda of this administration.

Ewa charged the research institutes to intensify partnerships with the private sector to commercialise their results, products and services.

The objective is to provide investors, financial institutions as well as the diplomatic community an opportunity for close dialogue session, provide for the needed partnership in driving the socio-economic development efforts of Nigeria through guided Research and Development.

How we’ll tackle Bonga spill, by NIMASA

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HE Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), said it would apply relevant sections of the International Maritime Organisaion’s (IMO) provisions in dealing with the BONGA oil spill.

The agency’s DirectorGeneral, Ziakede Patrick Akpobolokemi, told reporters yesterday in Lagos: “In a situation such as this, NIMASA is expected to implement relevant provisions of the International Maritime Organisaion’s (IMO) provisions, as ratified and domesticated by Nigeria.”

One of such conventions, he said, is the international convention on oil pollution preparedness, response and

By Uyoatta Eshiet

co-operation, 1990 (OPRC ’90) which is designed to assist IMO member states in effectively responding to emergencies.

Akpobolokemi, who was represented by the Executive Director, Marine, Safety and Shipping Development, Dr. Ishaku Shekarau, said the leak, as at the time of the briefing, was estimated to have hit about 40,000 barrels.

He explained that it is the largest oil leak since 1998, in Nigeria.

He said the agency has risen swiftly to the oil spill, listing some of the steps already undertaken, to include, the suspension of the off-take operation at that field, the mobilisation of

resources to identify the source of the leak and also mobilisation of resources to commence application of dispersants.

Akpobolokemi said the initial information received from the Director-General of the National Oil spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA), indicated of a leak of 1,000 barrels as at December 20, 2011, while further update has shown a worse scenario in the neighborhood of about 30,000 barrels.

The NIMASA helmsman reported that this leak is the worst in Nigeria since 1998.

He said it is a “Tier 3 Oil spill,” which requires both international and national response efforts. In line with its mandate, NIMASA said, it has

been in constant touch with both Shell and NOSDRA to ensure that adequate measures are put in place to prevent further degradation of the marine ecosystem.

On what has been done to further protect those who depend on the sea for their livelihood, Akpobolokemi, said the Agency has already done a sea radio broadcast to all mariners on the restriction of navigation along the affected zone, and stressed the need for the restriction of vessels’ navigation due to dispersants deployed around the area.

He said the Agency’s representatives have carried out an overfly of the area to observe the extent of spread of the spill and ascertain the danger posed to marine flora and fauna.

On allegation by Shell that there was a third party spillage from other sources, NIMASA said its team visited and collected samples at Forcados area to ascertain this claim. “Samples collected are being analyzed and we are also arranging for independent overview coverage of the Bonga field environment to ascertain the level of response and degradation to the environment and the marine life, in totality,” he stated.

NIMASA also reported that the slick from the Shell Bonga field which is said to have affected over 115 miles of the ocean near Nigeria’s coast, is feared to be moving fast towards the shores putting at risks, birds, vegetation and other marine resources in the area.

NDIC floats help desk for MFBs From Nduka Chiejina, Asst. Editor

T

HE Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corpora tion (NDIC) has established a special help desk for depositors, employees, shareholders and other stakeholders of microfinance banks (MFBs) and primary Mortgage institutions (PMIs) in the country.

The special help desk was established to compliment the NDIC’s existing help desk as part of efforts to enhance public awareness on the mandate and activities of the Corporation.

In a statement, NDIC explained that the special help desk, is located at the Special Insured Institutions Department (SIID), Lagos “ to effectively address enquiries, complaints and petitions by depositors and other stakeholders on timely and continuous basis.”

In addition, the unit is to provide a platform for whistle blowers who may want to volunteer confidential information to the Corporation on unethical or any other malpractices by the operators of the MFBs, NDIC said. It added that a dedicated line and an e-mail have been provided to facilitate easy access to the help desk.

13

THE NATION FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2011

AGRO-BUSINESS Cowpea research underfunded, says IITA breeder

A

•Ugbe

•Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development Dr Akinwunmi Adesina

•Ekundayo

Expert calls for reforms, funding of agric A

CONSULTANT to German International Co-operation (GIZ) Sustainable Cocoa Business programme, Mr Dayo Mejabi Ekundayo, has called for more reforms to boost funding in the agriculture sector.

Speaking with The Nation , Ekundayo said the Federal Government 2012 budget proposal to reduce lending rates for agricultural loans from15 to seven per cent will improve agricultural production.

According to him, farmers will be able to access quality seeds and planting materials at an affordable cost.

Ekundayo, who is also the Chief Executive, Agricultural Business Concepts Limited, said the sector requires more companies to involve farmers in contract farming, adding that this will play a vital role in risk management, by providing an assured market for agricultural produce.

The participation of companies in the farming segment,

Stories by Daniel Essiet, Agric Correspondent

Ekundayo noted, would play a crucial role in capital inflows.

At present, he said agro food processing companies are struggling and barely managing to survive as a result of high costs of raw ingredients.

The challenges of managing these increases, Ekundayo maintained, is eating into their profit margins.

Calling for intervention, the Chief Executive, Agricultural Business Concepts Limited, Ekundayo is also, noted that the market place environment has remained difficult for producers due to continuing inflationary pressures and higher input costs.

In an interview, the Country Representative, Research Into Use (RIU) Nigeria, Dr Utiang Ugbe, called on the government to encourage food processing industries to produce value-added products.

He noted that agro food pro-

cessing enterprises need technology to produce ingredients, which could be infused into standard food products.

Calling for adequate support to the food processing sector, Ugbe said the biggest advantage of the improvement of the agro processing industry would be the ability to provide employment and generate income for scores of people in the urban and rural areas.

If considerable attention is given to value-added agric produce, Ugbe said the country could become not only a food processing giant, but also be recognised for its best quality standards and wide range of products.

The major issue for the growth and development of agricultural industry, he maintained, was marketing and distribution of produce.

He said farmers need training to ensure efficient distribution which will result in the sale of products and revenue generation.

Fed Govt urged to strengthen extension service

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HE Federal Government has been urged to strengthen the nation’s agricultural extensive service to enhance household food security among low income earners.

The Commissioner for Agriculture, Kaduna State, Alhaji Ramalan Ibrahim Giwa, said this during the yearly National Agricultural Extension Review and Planning meeting at the National Agricultural Extension and Research Liaison Services, of the Ahmadu Bello University (ABU).

Describing the role of extension system as critical for agricultural development, Giwa noted that it supports agriculture as an essential source of income and food security.

With enhanced agric extensive service, the commissioner noted that the service would guarantee support as well as provide information about fertiliser use, and

how farmers can cultivate their plots with a sense of responsibility and personal investment.

A functional agricultural extension model, he noted, recognises and builds as much as possible on existing local structures, adding that such structures include the arrangements developed by farmers for procuring farm input, laboursaving devices, savings mobilisations, storage of farm produce, marketing of farm produce, sharing of information on new ideas and organising of farmers in social groups.

In addition, he added that local governance structure on agriculture provides an avenue for enhancing collective action and initiative by farmers.

He said extension has a role to identify innovative farmers and upscale potential enterprises in community, local government

and/or state level.

According to him, agricultural extension serve the interest of local farmers and seek to strengthen their linkages with markets and input dealers though access to real time market information that will enable them make informed decision about prices of agricultural produce and production options.

He noted that there was an appreciable level of wastage of farm produce due to glut and inappropriate storage practices, calling for farmers’ capacity building in primary processing of agricultural produce to reduce wastage and enhance income.

Giwa called on the Federal Government to improve protection of agricultural land resources from drought, desert encroachment, soil erosion and flood, and the general preservation of the environment for the sustainability of agricultural production.

Association advocates subsidy for local rice

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HE Association of Small-Scale Agro Producers of Nigeria (ASSAPIN) has advocated price subsidy for locally produced rice.

The National Vice-President of the association, Mr Joshua Mabinuori, made the call in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State.

Mabinuori said subsidy for locally produced rice would discourage importation and increase local production and consumption.

He described as “colossal waste” the huge amount expended on rice

importation yearly, adding that time had come for governments at all levels to invest in local rice production.

“One of the ways by which the government can discourage rice importation and encourage local production and consumption is when the price of the locally produced rice competes favourably with the imported rice.

“By this, farmers will produce more and consumption will also be high because people will buy more.

“At present, a local farmer pro-

ducing rice incurs more expenses producing 50 kg bag of rice because of higher cost of production than his counterpart in other countries.

“What the government should do as a matter of urgency is to encourage local rice production through price subsidy. This will assist farmers to remain in business and also reduce rice importation,’’ he said.

Mabinuori also urged the government to increase budgetary allocation to agriculture to enable the country to become self-reliant in food production.

COWPEA Breeder at the International Institute for Tropical Agriculture (IITA), Ibadan, Dr Boukar Ousmane, has bemoaned the lack of support for cowpea research.

He said funds research aimed at tackling the challenges facing the crop is vital to realising the full potential of the crop.

IITA Cowpea Breeder and Tropical Legumes II Project Coordinator, Dr Christian Fatokun, said the appeal for the crop is growing not just because it is a money spinner, but also because it is suitable for cultivation in the arid regions of sub-Saharan Africa.

Meanwhile, cowpea production and processing is growing daily in Nigeria, as income from the crop is improving the lives of rural people.

For example, farmers and processors in Osu, a community in Oyo State in the Southwest, say processing the protein-rich crop into cakes popularly known as akara is akin to hitting a goldmine. “The benefits are many,” says Mrs. Olaiya Oluwakemi, an akara vendor.

“From frying of akara alone, I have been able to afford sending my son to the university. I built a house and now own a car,” she added.

She had tried other businesses in

By Daniel Essiet, Agric Correspondent

the past, but the processing of cowpea grains to akara remained the most viable option. The business has grown in the last seven years and she employs more than 20 people.

On the average, she gets profits of between N1,500 and N2,000 daily.

“I have tried other trade but this is just the best,” she added.

Another cowpea processor, Chief Mrs Olorunisola, said she inherited the trade from her mother. After managing the business in the last 30 years, Olorunisola now owns the famous Iyadunni Akara Processing Enterprise. The business uses about 100 kg of cowpea grains as raw material daily for making akara. It has five branches spread across Nigeria, she said.

Income from the firm has helped Olorunisola to build two houses.

The third, a three-storey building, is still under construction. Three of her children have graduated from the university, thanks to the income from selling akara, she claimed.

Like Oluwakemi and Olorunisola, others have benefited from the processing of cowpea in the community.

Expert canvasses support for beekeeping

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ATIONAL President of the Beekeeping Association of Nigeria, Dr. Dokun Olagunju, has urged the government to take beekeeping serious.

Speaking at the swearing-in ceremony of the new executive of the Osun State branch of the association in Osogbo, Olagunju maintained that if Nigeria is prepared for food security and for export, then the Federal Government must change its attitude towards beekeeping.

He said: “Of all the pollinators, talk of butterflies and the rest put together, bees alone claim 80 per cent of pollinating our flowers. So, we need them in abundance to pollinate food and cash crops. Without the bees in abundance, certainly the quantity and quality of food production will be abysmally low.”

Citing Israel, he said bees pollinate its apple trees very well, saying without these insects, they would not have had enough to eat not talk of exporting.

He advised the new executives led

by Taofik Olayinka (as chairman), Sidikat Ajibike Adewoyin, deputy and Adegoke Adedotun, the secre-

From Adesoji Adeniyi, Osogbo

tary, to embark on the recruitment of members for the association to give support to Governor Rauf Aregbesola administration’s policies and programmes on abundant food production in the state.

“In America, the state of California alone produces 80 per cent of world’s available almonds. In California, they have over one million hives strategically located to pollinate the almond trees without these, they will not achieve anything.

“Thank God some state governments, particularly Osun, at the moment, are looking our way but when they fully embrace beekeeping, it will be a different story for this nation. We have a lot of opportunities in this country that are not exploited, which if the government can do this, poverty will be a mirage. God has blessed us with enough resources but, unfortunately, we are not exploiting them.

This is quite unfortunate. Beekeeping is one of such untapped opportunities,” he added.

17 dams coming next year

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HE Federal Government will build 17 new dams in 2012 to boost electricity supply by additional 140.275 mega watt.

The Minister of Water Resources, Mrs. Sarah Ochekpe, disclosed this to reporters in Jos. She said the new dams will not only increase power supply, they will also ensure improved irrigation for farming.

The dams are: Kashimbilla dam in Taraba State, which will generate 40 mw; Dadin Kowa small power plant in Gombe, which will generate 34mw, and Galma Dam in Kaduna with capacity to generate 10mw.

Others are the Ikere Gorge dam in Oyo State, Oyan dam in Ogun State, which would both generate nine megawatts each as well as Tiga, and Challawa dams in Kano State and Goronyo dam in Sokoto State, which would generate six mega watts each.

Others will be sited at Doma in Nasarawa, Bakolori dam in Sokoto, Wema Dam in Ondo, Jibiya dam in Jigawa, Zobe dam in Katsina Ogwashi Ukwu dam in Delta, Waya small hydro power dam in Bauchi, Mbowo small hydro power plant in Enugu and Kampe dam in Kogi.

According to her, “These 17 dams

From Marie-Therese Peter, Jos

when developed and they become operational would provide not only electricity but assist the small scale farmers in irrigation farming” as we cannot afford to rely on “rainy season farming alone”.

She stressed that the River Basin Authority would be revived to make it useful to the people, saying: “The total water coverage in the country is 58 per cent and this is below the MDG”.

She maintained that politicians have realised that boreholes have failed to address the water needs of the people in their constituencies as many of them break down easily hence, “the ministry is now working with a foundation to rehabilitate most of the broken down boreholes and train young Nigerians in rehabilitating them”.

She said 300 of the broken down boreholes have been rehabilitated and 1,000 more are being targeted before the end of next year.

The Minister assured that the Mangu water project and Bauche Dam in the Langtang Local Government areas of Plateau State would be resuscitated next year to meet the needs of the people.

14

THE NATION FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2011

AGRO-BUSINESS

Research produces 300-egg laying hen F

ROM a 17-year research has come an hen that can produce 300 eggs yearly.

Bena Farms Limited, which bred the hen, said farmers were using poor yielding hens for commercial production.

The farm’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr Olajuwon Okubena, said South Africa discovered that black and brown layers were not good for commercial egg production and has since switched to white feathered commercial layers.

He said 95 per cent of birds produced in South Africa are white feathered, saying white breeds gave more marketable eggs.

He added that egg production is about money making.

“These dependable performance characteristics of the white breeds are being dem-

By Wale Adepoju

onstrated on egg production farms throughout the world, especially in hot climatic zones,” he said.

On the average, he said each bird can produce 300 or 320 while that of brown or black breeds was 220 to 250 in the hot tropical climate.

He said his firm began a research 17 years ago to change the face of egg production in the country with white feathered laying birds. This was because they are better suited for hot tropical climate of the world including Nigeria where they can perform optimally than the

brown or black feathered laying birds.

Okubena said white breed consumed much lower feed than brown or black breed, adding that the former laid more eggs in hot climate.

He also said the white breeds performed better in hot climate because the white feathers drive away heat from the bird unlike the black or brown feathers, which absorbed heat, thus increasing the heat load and stress of the black or brown birds, therefore, resulting in their lower performance.

He added that white breeds were smaller in size, more disease resistant and usually

returned quickly to their normal performance after recovery from infections or stress conditions.

Okubena said the country could supply West Africa eggs if local farmers employed the hybrid technology.

“The egg industry in country is currently losing several billions of naira as a result of using black or brown layer as against white layers,” he said.

With the hybrid technology, he said: “Our white feathered layers are producing brown eggs. You can therefore produce more marketable eggs with increased profit.”

He said his farm has been producing white feathered layers that were producing brown eggs since two years as a pilot programme.

•From left: Assistant Superintendents of Police Onyinye Adibe, Oluseyi Akano, Aminat Olaore and Tajudeen Abati (all veterinary doctors), during the 48th Annual Congress of the Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association (NVMA) in Ilorin, Kwara State.

Firm introduces co-operative farming

A

firm, the CoopXchange Limited, has introduced co-operative farming in the Southwest and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja.

The firm rolled out the product to start a co-operative thrift, provide loans to farmers as well as help them market their produce.

According to the Chief Ex-

From Bisi Oladele, Ibadan

ecutive Officer of the firm, Mr Adebola Orolugbagbe, in an interview with reporters in Ibadan, the new initiative will, ultimately, boost food production as well as help farmers operate more profitably.

He said: “The agriculture sector has suffered neglect in past administrations and we

have decided to save the situation by strategising through our ‘Farmers’ Cooperative’ to save the country from the dearth of food produce.

“Our approach is strategic organisation of the operation of some value chain, which include the organisation of farmers, who are members of the co-operative; provision of farming materials which include fertiliser, chemical and

other farming equipment; harvesting of the farm produce; storage and marketing through CoopXchange Marketing Union.”

Orolugbagbe allayed fears of funding for the multiple segments of the project, stressing: “Funding will not be a problem as loans will be given to farmers through the CoopXchange Thrift and Credit Union.”

Farmers: high cost of feeds threatens fish production

By Daniel Essiet, Agric Correspondent

•Akingbolagun

E

XCEPT the government checks the high cost of feeds, catfish farming faces imminent extinction, farmers have warned.

They said the high cost of

feeds has put many farms in jeopardy.

Speaking through the President, Catfish Farmers Association of Nigeria, Chief Tayo Akingbolagun, they described feeds as a major factor in fish production. They said domestic farmers are struggling with the rising cost and other obstacles.

He said: “Good feeds were vital in ensuring the success of our business, but due to the high cost of imported feed that we use, the cost of our production soars up.”

The cost of feeding a

kilogramme of fish sold, he noted is not profitable.

On the average, he said farmers who rely on imported feed spend N350 to nuture a fish to one kilogramme size when it can be sold, adding that the amount excludes all other costs incurred.

Because of this, farmers are going for cheap feed products which produce poor products . Though raw material for fish feed were available in the country, the locally made feed are sub-standard due to lack of standard processing machinery.

For instance, the quality of the soybean seeds avail-

able to farmers was low and that this needed to be sorted out.

According to him, if the government can intervene, the price of feed will become minimal, then they can produce at a lower cost and by the time this is done, they will be able to sell at a more cheaper rate.

He said catfish production was already down and it could hurt future growth.

The catfish industry, he noted, generates employment, so closed farms are an economic blow.

He commended the Lagos State for establishing a fish feeds mill.

Akwa Ibom’s agric revitalisation blueprint

By Daniel Essiet, Agric Correspondent

A

GRICULTURE is the most important economic activity in the state and contributes a large percentage of its income that is second only to petroleum.

The climate allows favourable cultivation and extraction of agricultural and forest products such as palm produce, rubber, cocoa, rice, cassava, yam, plantain, banana, maize and timber.

The state supports a wide range of tropical vegetation that guarantees forestry as a viable economic venture. The government has also embarked on forest plantations in Eket, Ikono, Oron, Abak, ltu and Ikot Abasi. The need to increase the hectarage of plantations and forest reserves should be stressed. The need for timber is increasing daily because of the demand for housing construction and furniture.

The state government is seeking investors in the commercial production of rice, cassava, plantain/banana, ginger and vegetables,processing and packaging of food crops,,Large-scale production of tree crops such as oil palm, cocoa, rubber, coconut and African pear and processing of crop product into industrial raw materials: fronds and seed oils, starch, rubber crumbs, cocoa beans, palm wine, copra etc. Down stream products could be vegetable oils, soap/ detergents, livestock feeds, beverages, tyres/tubes, shoes, carpets, etc.

Generally, the total food productions have increased with the numerous Agricultural Development Programme of the state. More farmers are changing cropping patterns by engaging in double, mixed and intercropping practices.

For Akpabio, agric sector deserves a high premium as it remains the highest employer of labour and the only hope to sustainable tool to assuage poverty.

The state embarked on various progammes, one of which was the Integrated Farmers Scheme (IFS) in which 620 youths drawn from the 31 local government areas of the state were trained for a period of two months in both crops and live stock productions.

Akpabio’s reason for adopting such strategy to implement the scheme is: “To reduce dependency on government for employment, create and sustain new jobs and reduce frustration amongst the young people.

The beauty of the IFS is that the youth were not only trained and allowed to go seeking for funds to start their businesses, they were given soft loans. In this •Akpabio year’s budget the state government had reviewed upward the soft loan package from N300,000 to N500,000 per participant. The IFS, it has been argued, is Akpabio’s strategy to redirect the attention of the youths towards agriculture.

Another agricultural programme put in place in the state is the Accelerated Life stock and Fish Production programme (ALSFIP).This year, the state government would spend N11.8 billion naira under that programme.

The government is also partnering with an Israeli company call AGRIDEF Israel on the project to be executed in phases. Over 100,000 people are to be provided with economic opportunities to engage in large scale livestock production and aquaculture in the structured fish farm estates.

Akpabio has also revitalised the agric sector with his Community Plantation Development Scheme (CPDS), thus intervening in tree crops production with 4,671 hectares of oil palm, 444 hectares of rubber and 408 hectares of cocoa planted in the state for the empowerment of farmers. Furthermore, the state is participating in the Federal Government’s Agricultural Extension Service support Programme, in which 275 Akwa Ibom youths have been selected for training with the promises of financial assistance to start agro enterprises.

There is also a seed multiplication of progamme through which 6472 bundles of improved cassava cuttings under direct seed production and out grower scheme have been produced and distributed to farmers.The Agricultural Development Project (ADP) provides technical assistance and extension services to farmers.

The Akwa Ibom State Land Consolidation and Management Scheme is another area of hope. The objective is to encourage communities that have large parcels of land to donate such with a minimum of 100 hectares per local government area to enable the government to deal with the problem of land fragmentation which is a major problem of Agriculture in Akwa Ibom State. This is addition to the National Programme on Food Security (NPFS), which is seriously being pursued with 145 hectares of rain-fed farming, made up of maize, cassava and poultry production, piggery and aquaculture located at Ukana Uwa, Ikot Osudu and Ikot Essien.

In addition, 68,400 seed yams,150,000 cocoyam, corn and 650 bundles of sweet potato vines have been produced and distributed to farmers. The Root and Rubber Expansion Programme has received a boost. Also, 12.2 hectares of cassava have been cultivated and 24 replications of on-farm adaptive research trails have been established, all geared towards increased food production. Indeed, Akwa Ibom holds the hope for poverty alleviation in the country.

SHOPPING

15

THE NATION

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2011

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

e-mail: janicenkoli@yahoo.com 08033349992 sms only

email:- shopping@thenationonlineng.net

• M-Factor displaying his cheque.

‘No more N250 shirt O!’ Ideal gift for your child

Page 16

In his wildest dream, he never thought he could win such a large sum of money. So, when he was picked as the winner of the N10million Peak Talent Show Season Three, Osunbo Osondu Marvelous (aka MFactor) howled in joy, wondering: Na so person fortune dey change. JANICE NKOLI IFEME reports.

•STORY ON PAGE 16

Shopping’s subtle revolution

Page 17

THE NATION FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2011

16

SHOPPING

‘No more N250 shirt O!’

H

OW will you fell when fortune smiles on you all of a sudden. On top of the world, of course. So, it was with the winner of the N10 million grand prize in the Peak Talent Show Season Three. On being announced the winner, he jumped up and howled: “no more N250 shirt O!.”

No doubt, Osunbo Osondu Marvelous with stage name, M-factor, was beside himself with joy for winning the prize, which was unveiled at the end of the year celebration of Frieisland Campina, makers of Peak Milk. The grand finale of the Peak Talent Show Season Three was held at the Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos.

The preliminary stage of the contest, which began in September, was held in the six geopolitical zones. M-Factor, a rapper and entertainer, carted away the star prize of N2million cash and N8 million for talent development.

An apparently, overjoyed, M-Factor did not mince words telling The Nation Shopping that, with the prize money, his shopping would not be the same again.

What’s going to change in your life now that you are a millionaire?

Before I wasn’t a millionaire, but now I’m a millionaire. I guess something has changed.

What were you not doing before that you are going to do now?

I will do the millionaire thing that a broke boy was not doing before. But I will still live my normal life in a better way.

How is your shopping going to be from now?

Shopping? (he shouted before bursting into laughter ) Well, I can’t say, but I will definitely get a new wardrobe”.

Just a new wardrobe?

Trust me. You can’t tell every thing What kind of outfit will you put in the new wardrobe?

I like to do things differently. I like to be creative. Maybe I will carve out my own style.

Before now, where have you been shopping?

Oh boy, you know how e dey be now…na the same market where everybody dey go I dey go. If

• Statecamp presenting prizes to the runners-up

you manage fit buy, you buy.

What’s going to change in your shopping?

(Laughter) No more N250 shirt o.

How much will you go for now?

(Laughing and screaming) I don taya!

While presenting the prize to him, Frieisland Campina’s Managing Director, Bob Statecamp said: “I don’t spend N10million every night. Our real choice is the consumer. The consumer finds the Peak Talent Show a big one. The Peak brand is 59 years and brings out the best talent in Nigerians. It not only brings out the talent but develops it. And the Season Four next year

is going to be bigger and better.”

The contest began in September when contestants were selected after auditioning from the six geo-political zones. The final participants passed through series of training and eviction at the Peak Talent House in Lagos. The last three - songstress, Immaculate, violinist, Bernarde John and rapper and entertainer, M-Factor, contested at the grand finale. The two runners-up each went home with N1million and an ipad.

Consumers came in their large numbers to witness the crowning of the next super star as the winner was tagged.

Ideal gift for your child It is good to see children happy. As they enjoy this season of celebration, it is necessary that they understand what it is all about. They should know that giving is as important as receiving. TONIA’DIYAN writes.

A

S the festive season winds into the New Year, parents have tried their best to give their children a fun-filled celebration.

Many bought gifts for their children. But what kind of gift do you think matters most to your child? The most valuable gift for children is love and freedom. Let them be free to do all they love to do.

On the other hand, they should be made to understand that giving is not about the gift itself, but the love that goes with it.

Whenever the need arises, always plan in advance to give your kids a fun-filled shopping, with their co-operation.

Be mindful to present them hand-made gifts.

Gifts that you make yourself will always be appreciated more.

Use their special talents to make gifts for them.

Whether your child likes music, arts, maths, drawing, sculpture or writing, there are ways to use those talents and interests to make creative gifts for them. It could be fun. Use an empty standard size shoe box or a small plastic container to pack the gift; wrapping the box lid is not necessarily required.

Put into consideration the sex and age of the child. Print out the appropriate boy/girl label by including the artwork on the right side of the box.

Mark the correct age category on the label, and tape the label on the top of the box.

Fill the box with a variety of gifts that will give the child a fun-filled merry Christmas.

Place a colourful greeting card in an envelope

on top of the gift box and place a rubber band around it.

Most importantly, pray for your child as you present him/her the gift.

Children are wise and tend to see the world more simply than adults do. Perhaps it is time you started taking their needs into considerations.

Then, you would be satisfied that doing little things like shopping for the children is good enough.

• Good for baby

• Hand-made colourful crafts

PHOTO: SOLOMON ADEOLA

Those who spoke to The Nation Shopping expressed joy at the company’s efforts to add value to consumers through its talent show.

“It is a good thing that the company is doing. I like the fact that they truly appreciate their consumers by bringing out the best in them,” said Mrs Bose Ogbemudia, a guest at the show.

A dealer, Mrs Adenike Karimu, said: “I started selling milk because I believed that it is only through that that I would be able to afford it for the growth of my children and it has paid off. Today, I am a distributor. The product has added value to my family.”

17

THE NATION FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2011

SHOPPING Judging from events in the shopping arena in the year, Finance Minister Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala’s warning that Nigerians should be prepared for austerity measures in 2012 may not apply to the industry, which is witnessing a subtle revolution. JANICE NKOLI IFEME reviews the trend.

Shopping Right with

Are you ready for the 2012 Shopping’s subtle revolution shopper?

T

HE shopping industry is lively in this year. It is no longer news that executive retail shopping has come to stay.

The interesting fact about it is that shoppers have embraced the system as if they have been waiting for it all their lives. Aside the stores stocking diverse items to entice consumers, manufacturers are employing various branding strategies to live up to the market competition. Some introduced new products, many upgraded existing ones while most indulged in branding and rebranding of products for greater appeal to consumers.

Executive retail shopping malls, such as the refurbished Adeniran Ogunsanya Shopping Mall; The Palms, Enugu; Ikeja City Mall and Trinity Mall, Ikeja have come to stay. Grocery shopping has also added colour to the shopping of many families. The coming of Spar Retail Supermarket brought about swift competition to the dominant retail grocer, Shoprite, which has in turn spread its outlets to Enugu, Ikeja and Surulere. With Spar working hard to live up to its claim as the world’s largest retail supermarket and other malls making a point to include grocery in their make ups, the competition is becoming fierce.

It is on record that the grocery stores must have made the highest sales during the Yuletide - if sales are measured by the crowd that flock to the shops. People had to queue for hours to shop at the grocery store at the Ikeja City Mall. If that was not enough, a shopper attested to the fact that the one at the Surulere Shopping mall was literally emptied by shoppers last minutes to Christmas.

The markets did not slack either as they continued to show adaptability for all, with sanity maintained. For instance, places, such as Oshodi and Mushin, which, hitherto, were a menace, have remained orderly and, therefore, appealing to shoppers. Indeed, market sanitisation has come to stay in the Centre of Excellence.

Another feature of the year was the use of celebrities to brand products. Most companies have been promoting their products through endorsement by artists, as the case may be. From all indication, this trend would not wear out soon. Besides, corporate bodies, notably the telecommunications outfits and beverage manufacturing outfits have sponsored a number of reality and talent shows such as the MTN Project Fame, Peak Talent Show, Multina Dance All and Amstel Box Office, to mention a few.

Aside the major yearly trade fairs, a number of specialised trade shows were held.

Indeed, the shopping arena has been going through a subtle revolution as proactive investors have found it a viable place to stake their capital. This is made possible with shoppers who are willing participants in the act.

The crowd of people in virtually every mall you visit gives credence to the fact that shop-

• Shoppers in a grocery store.

pers actually love the feature of the mall and have embraced it.

It is expected that more international outlets, including Walmart, would bring their shops to the country in the future. Even community stores are aspiring to improve the quality of their services.

Malls are also seen by many as a positive sign for socio-economic development, judging from the social amenities, recreation and employment opportunities it offers.

Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola noted: “The numbers of new businesses that are opening and expanding their outlets are in my view, real measures of growth for the economy. Any where you see a mall open, it is a positive sign of development”.

Mr Chudi Ejekam, the Real Estate Director of Actis, a leading investor in the emerging markets, told The Nation Shopping why the company established The Palms and Ikeja City Mall. He said the firm sees Nigeria as a place to invest on malls.

He said: “We believe that Actis’s real estate developments can have a profoundly positive impact in sub-Saharan Africa. Ikeja City Mall opens up a space for Nigerians to work and relax and follows in the footsteps of Actis’s successful development of The Palms. We believe that Nigeria and Ghana alone have the potential for at least 20 more similar scale malls.”

Given this flair for the development of malls, the industry may well be on a revolution. It might also be an answer to government’s interest in making domestic investments and consumption to work as stated by Finance Minister, Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala.

While speaking during a presidential roundtable talk with top business leaders in Burwood, Australia on the need for foreign experts to invest in Nigeria, she said: “What this means for us is that we have to drive towards sources of growth for our own economy. We have to work doubly hard in order to drive our own economy not just depending on external finance but also on internal finance. That means we have to work hard to make domestic investments and domestic consumption to work harder for us”.

If any thought is given to this, more malls and businesses are sure to sprout in the coming year. More fashion and flea markets are also in the offing.

On the foreign scene, Emporio Armanio proposed the use of plastics for clothing designs, shoes, bags and accessories for the coming year. Nigerian fashion buffs are already incorporating this in their wardrobes. Also, Famous wedding gown designer, Verah Wang proposed an array of black wedding gowns for the New Year. It is not likely that many would buy Vera Wang’s black wedding gown idea, but some will definitely go for shades order than the usual white.

I

N less than 48 hours, another year dawns.Naturally, everyone is filled with expectation as to what the New Year is going to bring. I would simply say, be positive and look unto God because He is the all- knowing.

However, we are sure of something: shopping continues. At least you can bear me witness. After the hullabaloo about Christmas Shopping, the shops are still striving, the markets are unwavering. You would think people did not visit these places before Christmas. Just visit any market you wish or any of the known shopping malls. You will see what I have seen.

Even the shops in your neighbourhood would JANICE NKOLI IFEME confirm to you that shopping never dies. It can only reinforce. With more executive retail malls coming up in more localities, the shopping ex- warranty rights. perience promises to be more interesting. That With dwindling economy, the term credit is why The Nation Shopping will continue to bring crunch has entered everyday vocabulary. Conyou great shopping treats and interesting tips sequently, shoppers are looking for the best on how to shop right. As a shopper, it is all bargain. Christmas sales and bonanzas have about positioning you to get the best and as a been on and will continue till mid January. This dealer, helping you align your strategy to the is among the best times for bargain shoppers to future needs of shoppers. hit the shops.

The clock is ticking into 2012 and the shopper For most people, while everything is needful in this dispensation has a lot of expectations and in some way, food and grocery shopping will would keep changing their habits, seeking more remain top on the agenda; for the reason of surfrom less. Gone are the days when shoppers did vival. Almost everyone aspires to enjoy better not know their rights. With quality of food and formal retail shopping gainthey expect the food ing relevance, shoppers are and grocery industry ‘As a shopper, it is all becoming more aware of to keep delivering their right which states that: about positioning you better value. whatever time of year, the grocery stores to get the best and as a onWith goods you buy must: the increase, groBe of satisfactory quality dealer, helping you cery shopping is sure - This means that the goods be more convenient align your strategy to the to should be free of any faults, for many. Personally, including minor ones. They would rather go to a future needs of shop- Igrocery should be of the quality that store where pers. The clock is ticking the goods have price a reasonable person would expect given the descripon them than to into 2012 and the shop- tags tion, price and any other relhaggle over prices of evant circumstances. You per in this dispensation stocks in the market. can take into account the a scenario has a lot of expectations Imagine appearance and finish of the whereby you raise up goods, whether there are and would keep chang- an item you wish to any defects (including miwith knowledge ing their habits, seeking buy, nor ones). You can also take of the fact that the into account whether pubprice would be about more from less’ licised information about N2, 500; the seller tells specific features of the goods you N4, 500. On seeis accurate, and whether the ing your disagreegoods are safe when used properly ment, the seller says: “Price am noow, na market”.

Match the description - This means that if there But a good store will simply save you that disis a verbal or written description of the goods, it comfort by telling you that it is N2, 500. At most must be accurate. And if you choose goods after it will be tagged N3, 000, but most probably seeing a sample, your goods must match the less” Some people like haggling too, because in sample. the process, the item could be bought at say, N2, Be fit for their purpose. This means that you 450 must be able to use them for the purposes that There is need to understand what expectations you would normally expect from this type of shoppers have for the future and how they want product, or any purpose that you have told the food companies to respond. Over half of shopseller you want to use them for. For instance, if pers expect to be more careful about their food you were buying computer software and asked choices in the year to come than today. whether it would work on your particular comCompanies can always redirect trends by reputer, it should do so. sponding positively to consumer needs. It is a If not, you are entitled to your money back if challenge for the food industry but also a big you are quick. If you aren’t quick you could be opportunity. The more value companies can add, offered a repair or replacement instead to put the stronger shopper loyalty will be. things right.

There is tough concern for health and the enHaving outlined the inalienable rights of the vironment, Managers of food and grocery comshopper, it is imperative to state that it could panies are highly optimistic about the future as only be exercised within a formal retail setup. If shoppers’ need for quality increases. for instance you buy a gadget by the road side, Those who feel able to make a positive differprobably during traffic and get home to dis- ence to the environment through their shopcover that it is non functional or faulty who ping decisions have also increased. would you blame? But if you bought it from a Many shoppers expect to buy more organic formal retail shop, it would be easy for you to foods and more will eat more fruit and vegetareturn it. Besides, you would be entitled to your bles in the future.

Write to us, express your views, observations and experiences. Let’s have your comments about shopping. Your comments, questions and answers will be published first Friday of every month. With your full name and occupation, send e-mail to: janicenkoli@yahoo.com SMS - 08033349992

18

THE NATION FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2011

THE NATION FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2011

19

EDITORIAL/OPINION Comments

EDITORIAL FROM OTHER LAND

Judicial reform report • Genuine changes impossible without NBA’s input

F

OR Nigerians who had been speculating on why the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) did not sign the Judicial Reform Committee’s report, the association has put paid to such speculation. It said it could not have signed a document that failed to reflect its views on how to sanitise the country’s judiciary. NBA president, Joseph Daudu, seized the opportunity of a press conference that he addressed in Kaduna to review issues affecting the judiciary.

The association’s views, which dwelt on quite a number of issues, in the attempt to return the judiciary to its old glory were a compendium of sort.

We feel rather sad that this development has occurred at this point in the country’s history. Although we were cautious in our optimism when the idea of reforming the judiciary was mooted, it is devastating that the NBA, a critical segment in the dispensation of justice, did not give its blessing to the report. Of course, we cannot blame the association, especially in view of the reasons it gave for taking that position.

For instance, the association’s position that no serving judicial officers, including the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), should be on the panel of the National Judicial Council (NJC) is commonsensical. The present arrangement where the CJN is not just a member of the council but its head is defective because his matter can also be referred to the council for disciplinary or other matters. We do not have to look too far for the inherent

dangers in the present arrangement.

Indeed, the NBA president put it succinctly: “During the last dispensation, the NJC was faced with the embarrassing scenario where both the CJN and the PCA were facing disciplinary procedures before the same council where they were members. Naturally, the effect of the appointing process of members would play a role in the ultimate resolution of whatever crisis the council is facing...”

We agree with the NBA’s position that retired chief justices, President of the Court of Appeal, chief judges, etc., as well as experienced lawyers be appointed to the NJC by an appointing committee. It is unfortunate that other members of the committee, apart from those of the NBA, strongly resisted this laudable idea.

What they should have done, even if they disagreed with this position, was to have incorporated it in the report to the CJN who initiated the idea of the reform, to enable him decide what to do with it.

But the majority of the committee members acted like the outsider who wept louder than the bereaved by writing a report that pretended that such a recommendation was never made.

We agree with the lawyers that for any meaningful reform in the judiciary, half measures will not do. A situation where the appointment of judges is fraught with irregularities, as the NBA observed, is bad enough. It means that ab initio, justice itself is standing on a shaky pedestal. Some of the laughable judgments and injunctions that have

emanated from some of the courts confirm this fact.

The NBA should send a copy of its position to the CJN if it has not. In the same vein, we urge the CJN to dispassionately look at the report submitted to him and find ways of incorporating the lawyers’ views.

Lawyers are a critical segment in the temple of justice; they therefore have to be carried along in any attempt to reform the judiciary.

We all saw how the judiciary almost became enmeshed in politics and this does not augur well for democracy and the country. The recommendations made to the CJN by the majority members of the reform committee cannot reform anything; it can only give us motion without movement.

‘For instance, the association’s position that no serving judicial officers, including the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), should be on the panel of the National Judicial Council (NJC) is commonsensical. The present arrangement where the CJN is not just a member of the council but its head is defective because his matter can also be referred to the council for disciplinary or other matters’

IMF boss’ visit • Shall we know the real reason of Lagarde’s coming?

Q

UITE expectedly, the debate on last week’s visit of the Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Christine Lagarde, to Nigeria as part of her official itinerary to developing economies, is yet to subside.

Without doubt, this is not the best of times for such a visit: the domestic economy is not only shaky and lukewarm; recovery capabilities are also quite unpredictable.

In addition, Lagarde came at a time the government is proposing a possible implementation of the ‘fuel-subsidy’ removal. Within the public domain, there are two popular prognoses. Some Nigerians are of the opinion that Lagarde visited Nigeria in person, so as to have an on-the-spot assessment of the economic peculiarities of the country vis-à-vis the ability of the finance minister and co-

‘Nonetheless, Lagarde’s visit should be an eye opener to the country’s leadership. ...Now that we have the service of Dr. Okonjo-Iweala, who, fortunately understands the body language of the Fund, let the real reasons for Lagarde’s visit be made public, and if Nigeria is taking any loan facility, let the conditionalities be made bare before us too’

ordinating minister of the economy, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala’s ability to cope. On the other hand, some people felt that the visit was symbolic at best, to give the Federal Government the needed assurance that the Bretton Woods Fund is solidly behind the policy that ensures limited government spending. Of course, this has always been central to most of the IMF economic policies.

Whichever way we look at the matter, it is difficult for the IMF to come out smelling like roses. To the average man on the street, IMF represents economic bad news; democratisation of poverty and economic pains, and inexplicable miseries (sometimes in the midst of plenty, as was the case in Nigeria during the Structural Adjustment Programme, SAP era). The Fund has a penchant for prescribing crass economic measures.

Indeed, the Senate President, David Mark, was right to have said that the IMF and other international financial institutions should embark on serious reforms and reverse the negative perception that their policies are targeted at destroying Africa’s developing economies.

However, beyond the mere glib repetition of an average citizen’s (layman) perception of the IMF policy thrusts by the Senate President, there is nothing particularly novel or exciting about his response to the visit of the IMF boss.

Nigerians had thought that the Senate President would engage Lagarde at the level of ideas, and that the discourse would be issue-based. Sadly, that was not to be.

More embarrassing is the advice the Senate President freely gave Lagarde, which in principle is antithetical to the central organisational goal of the Fund itself; to prescribe policies that would help the developing economies!

No doubt, the intervention of the IMF, at least on paper, is usually at the instance of the country with the ailing domestic economy. A cursory gaze at the available record shows that countries with poor leadership and largely corrupt society, but endowed with rich deposit of hidden or badly managed wealth often fall prey to the manipulations of the IMF. And, Lagarde was right to have pointed out that the IMF cannot determine what is good for Nigeria. IMF only acts as a trusted adviser for many countries, without prescribing, unless specific countries so request.

Nonetheless, Lagarde’s visit should be an eye opener to the country’s leadership. In the General Ibrahim Babangida years, he once invited Nigerians to a no- contest shadowbox in form of a debate on whether or not to take IMF loans. Till date, not very many Nigerians could say with any degree of exactitude what happened to the loan; but the conditionalities for the loan were forced down the throats of Nigerians.

Now that we have the service of Dr. Okonjo-Iweala, who, fortunately understands the body language of the Fund, let the real reasons for Lagarde’s visit be made public, and if Nigeria is taking any loan facility, let the conditionalities be made bare before us too.

Why isn’t the West reacting to China’s crackdown?

C

HINA’S COMMUNIST RULERS are ringing out December in a flurry of paranoia and repression, a fitting coda to a year of steadily decreasing tolerance for open dissent and discussion.

On Friday, authorities sentenced Chen Wei to nine years in prison. Mr. Chen’s “crime was heinous, and influence vile,” the judge declared. And what was his crime? Writing essays. Because he advocated democracy — and has done so since he was first imprisoned for his role in the Tiananmen Square protests of 1989 — a judge found Mr. Chen guilty of “inciting subversion.”

On Monday another dissident writer, Chen Xi, was sentenced to 10 years, also for “incitement.” His crime: 36 essays that he wrote and posted online.

These sentences would have been considered unusually long until recently, but in the current crackdown the regime has sentenced Nobel peace laureate Liu Xiaobo to 11 years and Liu Xianbin to 10 years. Their crimes also consisted of writing.

China’s Communist rulers do not feel compelled to account for their actions, so the motivation for the crackdown is a subject of speculation. Most China-watchers believe the authorities have been spooked by the popular uprisings in the Middle East. They may also be more nervous than usual as they prepare for an equally opaque leadership change next year. A top security official reportedly said that crackdowns on “hostile forces”(government code for peaceful advocates of democracy) and “illegal religious organizations” (code for Christians, Falun Gong followers and others who choose to worship without government approval) will be a priority in the coming year.

The human rights crackdown has drawn relatively little attention or condemnation from the West. Perhaps this is because the allure of Chinese investment and the Chinese market is too strong. Perhaps the crackdown seems so out of keeping with popular images of bustling, modern, capitalist Shanghai that outsiders have a hard time believing it is going on.

But those who think the anxieties of China’s rulers are irrelevant to its foreign relations would do well to read a Dec. 25 account by Post correspondent Andrew Higgins about official attacks against U.S. ambassadors to China and, most recently and most personally, against the U.S. consul to Hong Kong, Stephen Young, whose transgression was to ignore “solemn warnings” to keep mum about democracy. The gibes are a reminder that China’s rulers, in order to bolster their position without the legitimacy of popular election, are quick not only to imprison their – Washington Post

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

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THE NATION FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2011

20

EDITORIAL/OPINION

S

IR: These are not the best of times for our dear country.

The general feeling of insecurity among the populace is at its lowest ebb and the fear of bombs, armed robbers and kidnappers have become the beginning of wisdom as nobody knows when and where the next catastrophe will occur. Indeed, it has become so bad in some parts of the country that banks and other financial institutions have closed down for fear of armed robbers’ attack. As the menace of militancy in the Niger Delta began to simmer down, the spate of bombings in the capital city of Abuja and other parts of northern Nigeria heightened the level of insecurity that has pervaded the nation in the last decades or two.

The once peaceful city of Jos has continued to be a volatile place and nobody knows when the fire on the Plateau will be doused. The untold genocide going on in the once serene city of Jos is scary.

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IR: Over two thirds of earth’s surface is covered by water; less than a third is taken up by land. As earth’s population continues to grow, people are putting ever-increasing pressure on the planet’s water resources.

Our oceans, rivers in Nigeria and other inland waters are ‘’squeezed’’ by human activities, not so they take up less room, but so their quality is reduced. Poorer water quality means water or river pollution.

We know that pollution is a human problem because it is a relatively recent development in the planet’s history. Before the 19th century industrial revolution, people lived more in harmony with their immediate environment. As industrialization has spread around the globe, so the problem of pollution especially river has spread with it.

Today, with almost seven billion people on the planet, it has become apparent that there are limits. Pollution is one of the signs that humans have exceeded those limits.

Perhaps, the main problem caused by water or river pollution is that it kills life that inhabits water-based ecosystems. Dead fish, birds, dolphins and many other animals often wind up on beaches, killed by pollutants in their habitat.

Pollution disrupts the natural food chain as well. Pollutants such

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Security and unemployment in Nigeria Unfortunately, it will be an arduous task to extricate the insecurity in the land from the socio-economic challenges that we face as a nation. Official figures from the Bureau of Statistics puts this figure at about 20% (about 30million) but this figure does not include about 40million other Nigerian youths captured in World Bank statistics in 2009. By implication, it means that if Nigeria’s population is 140 million, then 50% of Nigerians are unemployed, or worse still, at least 71% of Nigerian youths are

unemployed. This is particularly disturbing and counterproductive because at least 70% of the population of this country are youths. Viewing this from the perceptive of the recent events in the Middle East where unemployment and poverty, among others, played a key role in the uprising, one can only conclude that Nigeria’s unemployment poses a threat to its development, security and peaceful coexistence.

The unemployment crisis in Nigeria is linked to galloping poverty and of course, this is

obvious. But to put Nigerians to work, the solution lies in a reinvention of the nature and purpose of government. Once upon a time in this country, Nigerians were a busy people; choice jobs were selected by graduates and consequently unemployment low or at best none existed. In Ibadan, Lagos, Onitsha, Kaduna, Enugu, Port Harcourt, there were industrial complexes where factories produced goods for both local and export purposes while an army of workers- skilled and non-skilleddaily earn a living from these

factories.

It is therefore imperative that enough is done to fix the economy, most especially the power sector.

A survey of recently apprehended criminals in the country will reveal that most of them are unemployed artisans whose businesses have been crippled by the energy crises in the country. The best systematic approach to reducing crime in any society is through the provision of an enabling environment for entrepreneurship to thrive and catalyze employment generation.

We must begin to make things work. It is therefore not out of place to consider massive employment generation as an issue of major focus on national development and economic growth plan of the Nigerian government.

• Sola Ogunmosunle Ministry of Information and Strategy, Alausa, Ikeja.

Danger of river pollution as lead and cadmium are eaten by tiny animals later, these animals are consumed by fish and shellfish, and the food chain continues to be disrupted at all higher levels.

Eventually, humans are affected by this process as well; people can get diseases such as hepatitis by eaten sea food that has been poisoned. Ecosystem can be severely changed or destroyed by water pollution.

Sometimes ago, some Ecosystem scholars, however, Chris

Woodford stated that some people believe pollution is an inescapable result of human activity: they argue that if we want to have factories, cities, ships, cars, oil and coastal resorts, some degree of pollution is almost certain to result.

In other words, pollutions is necessary evil that people must put up with if they want to make progress.

Fortunately, not everyone agrees with this view. One reason people have woken up to the problem of pollution is that it brings costs of its

own that undermine any economic benefits that come about by polluting.

Take oil spills, for example. They can happen if tankers are too poorly built to survive accidents at sea. The main problem is that the people who bear the cost of the spill (typically a small coastal community) are not the people who caused the problem in the first place the people who operate tanker. Yet, arguably, everyone who puts gasoline

(petrol) into their cars or uses almost any kind of petroleum fueled transport contributes to the problem in some way, so oil spills area problem for everyone.

The environment is everything that surrounds us that gives us life and health.

• Adewunmi Abolanle, Lagos

CAC, making investment easy in Nigeria

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IR: The Companies and Allied Matters Act, CAMA which created the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) empowers it to register different categories of companies under Parts A, B, and C. They are companies limited by shares, companies limited by guarantee, public limited company and unlimited companies under Part A. Others are registration of business names under Part B and registration of incorporated trustees (NGOs) under Part C. It may be necessary to mention that while registration under Part A is legally carried out by lawyers, chartered accountants and chartered secretaries, the ones under Parts B and ‘C’ are free to be directly registered by individuals.

Business registration is very vital to the growth of the economy.

Statistically, an authentic and reliable record of companies will enable investors and the government know the actual strength of the economy and assist in government planning.

One of President Goodluck Jonathan’s policy thrust is to provide private sector-driven economy. The administration has job creation as a core mandate which involves removing obstacles constraining doing business in Nigeria.

The CAC’s helmsman, Bello Mahmud, has introduced special desks in all the commission’s state offices to encourage and facilitate the registration of small businesses.

Small-scale industries, the world over, contribute to the economy of

many countries. China, with her high GPD and large size of economy records and encourages enormous participation by small-scale firms.

CAMA, the enabling law authorises the CAC to conduct investigations into the affairs of any company where the interests of the shareholders and the public so demand, and to undertake such other activities as are necessary or expedient for giving full effect to the provisions of the Act. The commission is collaborating with banks and other agencies to plug loopholes and this is understandable, after all. As a matter of compulsion, it has put banks on alert to demand evidence of business registration with CAC before companies are allowed to open and

operate accounts with them.

The order by CAC is not restricted to just banks. All the Federal Government agencies have also been solicited in the same light to support the measures to sanitise the country’s business environment and make it safe for genuine business to operate.

While we appreciate the CAC for these efforts, it may do more if its regulatory and enforcement powers are strengthened. This therefore brings us to the issue of amendment of the CAMA. Twenty years after its enactment, this enabling law needs amendment to enable the commission meet requirements of the rapidly growing economy.

• Dupe Alabi (Economists) 118 Adeniran Ogunsanya Street Surulere, Lagos.

THE NATION FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2011 16

21

EDITORIAL/OPINION

Reality Bites O

Olatunji Ololade

N this page, I have sung the praises of Sanusi Lamido Sanusi. Today let me illustrate the swollen belly of his pride. Despite his depth and brilliance, on December 22, 2011, the CBN governor poetized cheek and naiveté to an unimaginably high level, like a poetaster.

Venue was the town hall meeting in Lagos and the issue was Fuel subsidy removal: In whose interest? In the heat of the debate, Sanusi marched to the front of the podium confidently. His demeanor was condescending and his message was clear and concise: “Ideology is overrated; Economics rules the world.”

The CBN governor was in his element, dishing out economic facts and figures; truisms and then insults tongue in cheek and selfrighteously. That had to be infuriating. It was; particularly to haters of Sanusi. Others were predictably indifferent and a great deal more were simply awestruck by his eloquence and seeming infallibility. At the end, everybody garnered an understanding of what Sanusi truly stands for.

What does Sanusi stand for?

Having identified himself as a Marxist, could it be safe to conclude that he is a Marxian-Economist? Of course, that could never be appropriate given his penchant for experimentation, of which some of his drastic measures are seemingly paying off – like his revelation and sack of thieving bank chiefs and purposeful reforms of Nigeria’s banking sector.

But this isn’t about his banking

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reforms nor is it another desperate effort to puncture Sanusi and company’s statistical arguments against fuel subsidy with a more believable perspective hinged on pro-bottom million arithmetic; rather this is about the CBN governor’s inadequacies.

Sanusi claimed it is not an economic argument for anyone to claim that removing fuel subsidy will create hardships. According to him, the argument is never about “ideology but about simple economics and simple common sense.” Hence clinically, he tore down the arguments against fuel subsidy removal quoting impressive statistics to substantiate his viewpoint – could he be any more ideological?

Corroborating Ngozi OkonjoIweala, Nigeria’s finance minister, who predicted very hard times ahead should the subsidy regime not be discontinued, Sanusi stated that subsidy caters to “sustain a lifestyle that favours only the elites and not the poor.”

Going by the very grim picture he painted, one could hardly fault Sanusi for his uncompromising stance on the issue of fuel subsidy.

In fact, the nation may do well by hearkening to his warning. Now, this is where it really gets interesting? Was Sanusi truly speaking in the interest of the overexploited average man on the street or was he simply there to spar intellectually in the interest of the Nigerian ruling class?

Sanusi may psyche himself up to believe whatever makes it easier

WO phone calls, received from distant lands in close succession, have shaken off from me, the notion that the public good and individual happiness do not often, cohabit in Nigeria. The calls have additionally reinforced the belief now widespread and prosaic, that the world has become a global, village.

The first phone call I received, was from a nephew in America, announcing the birth of a baby boy; the other from Vietnam a locale, considerably unfamiliar and remote to the Nigerian consciousness. From this remote end, another nephew, a professional footballer, phoned in to share the joyful news that he had resumed his Vietnam football league responsibilities, having recovered from a knee injury. The injury laid him off for three months.

Only a few years ago, this sort of communication would have involved all kinds of convolutions, none easy to address. But our world, even our own Nigerian world, as imperfect as it is, and for all the mythical disconnect between government and the governed, has pulled off an illustrious revolution in telecommunication technology.

All Nigerians are in no doubt indebted to the institution that has presided over this massive unraveling.

The Nigerian Communications Commission, NCC has been charged with regulating the business of telecommunication in Nigeria. This, it has done with exemplary success. It has presided over a movement from analogue to digital, and has also conducted a massive reordering of Nigeria’s fortunes in this area. One of the compelling indicators of its phenomenal growth is that under the NCC’s purview, the subscriber base of GSM providers has reached 78 million. This makes Nigerian telecommunication the fastest growing in all of Africa. This is good for our country, as telecommunication, does not merely promote civic intercourse; it also accelerates trade, reduces the requirement for face-to-face interventions, and promotes the prospects of social and political integration.

Indeed, one of the major advantages of a robust telecommunication sector is its nonenclave nature. It has a dynamic for impacting positively on several other tiers of the nation’s

Ebele Baba and his 40-something cripples (3) (Economics according to Sanusi Lamido Sanusi) for him to enjoy the perks of office without scruples but at the end, he will also pass as another farceur working to protect the interest of Nigeria’s ruling class.

More worrisome is the fact that Okonjo-Iweala, was more of a leader; exhibiting greater tact, intellect, maturity and grace than Sanusi. Blinded by his penchant to hear himself speak, Sanusi strutted about the stage and marshaled his points albeit condescendingly to everyone within earshot.

For a presumably brilliant economist, he seemed ideologically confused; despite identifying himself as a Marxist, Sanusi in actual fact perpetuates measures reminiscent of Keynesian economics. But he doesn’t seem to be aware of this except he is a textbook economist; and prevalent realities in Nigeria and world over have proven not a few economists including the over-celebrated World Bank/IMF eggheads, whatever the ideological camps they belong, to be pathetic illusionists.

At the end, every economic argument is about money and its potentials in the acquisition of individual and society’s basic needs and vanities, forget the theoretical mumbo-jumbo projected in its pursuit and embezzlement.

However, economics, like money, serves its purpose when it is used in the interest of those who are in real need of it. The attainment of such humane goals by economics is wholly dependent on the existence of leadership by principle and enviable character – an elite and innately humane group that Sanusi cannot yet claim membership of.

The CBN governor is obviously flummoxed by his inability to devise a Nigerian-styled economics

and make it work for the country.

The best he could do is to regurgitate economic rant predicated on statistics and fingerpointing that has overtime failed to chart for the country a progressive course out of the doldrums of self-inflicted poverty, corruption and insecurity.

It is simply not impressive anymore for him to claim that the N1.3 or more trillion saved by removing fuel subsidy will be used to develop other sectors of the country. Like Femi Falana noted; Nigerians were fed with the same story during former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s tenure and under the watchful eyes of Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, when fuel price was increased six times with the promise that life could only get better.

Sanusi has arrogantly made his points and they are awfully valid.

But he failed to suggest how money saved by removing fuel subsidy would be used to revivify other sectors; he also failed to proffer workable measures to prevent his cohorts in power from misappropriating it.

Never had it been more transparent that he is not fighting for the cause of the “average man on the street.” Sanusi does not care about the average man on the street.

He is far removed from the realities plaguing the latter’s existence that his mantra about subsidizing domestic production and creating job opportunities smacks of insincerity and a wantonness to play to the working class’ gallery even as he emasculates them.

The CBN governor’s performance at the town hall debate is instructive. It reveals his disdain for Nigeria’s 90 per cent bottom million who he asserted, live below

Managing the interface between lotteries and telecoms

By Dele Olowu experience. The mobile set, because of its technological resilience, has multi applications and can perform multi-tasks.

In addition to direct communication, it can conduct mails and internet as well as serve as a platform for watching programmes and listening to the news. On account of this revolution in telecommunication, telephony is pressed into service not merely to facilitate messages. Telephony now has given rise to mobile banking and mobile lotteries. Here it must be acknowledged that because telephony has expanded into unfamiliar territory such as mobile banking and mobile lottery, a professional health warning appears to be required.

When banking deploys telecommunication in aid of its core responsibilities, what it practices is banking and not telecommunication.

Oversight and regulatory responsibilities will continue to be carried out by the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, and not by any other regulatory body or institution. Conversely, were the Nigerian GSM networks required to conduct their work using financial and banking protocols, this would not make GSM providers liable to regulation by the apex.

However, if the GSM providers required going into retail banking of any sort, that aspect, would require to be regulated by the CBN. These analogies are useful, because they can assist in ventilating some of the ambiguities pertaining to the functions of some of the regulatory institutions in the country.

The issue of multiple taxation, once famously reared its head, in Lagos, where network providers and lotto promoters complained about paying taxes to both federal and state authorities. This was obviously a constitutional difficulty as the

matter is on the concurrent list. This issue will be resolved either through the courts or the National Assembly. A climate of benign understanding and tolerance has prevented an outbreak of tumult over this issue.

The difficulty experienced by some of the GSM providers in their dealings with NCC and the National Lottery Regulatory Commission, NLRC, is of a different kind. It involves federal authority and federal parastatals. It is common knowledge that several of these GSM operators have massively engaged promotional activities, many of which can be considered as lottery.

In the beginning, because oversight was not rigidly conducted, many of those providers got away with blue murder. They cheated those who partook in the games of chance, and cheated on the revenue that would have accrued to the Federal Government, had matters been better managed. No one can in all conscience blame the NCC, if it allowed the erring providers to take their wares to the unsuspecting Nigerian public. So long as they complied with the protocol of the NCC, the providers were free to carry on.

However, the experience of the NLRC, and the evangelical fervours of Peter Igho, its Director General in rigidly upholding its protocol, means that from now on, GSM providers who double as lottery vendors must proceed with considerable circumspection. The new order established by Igho is useful and important. It will protect the interest of the chance staking public, earn increased revenue for the Federal Government, and assist in deploying lottery resources to good public causes.

The lottery regulatory commission, has created a much greater amount of visibility for its self, and has on account of its growing reputation, ensured more wide spread

two paltry dollars per day. His inclination to project statistically cluttered economic truths and reactive governance is an unavoidable consequence of the economist’s hubris – a handicap he regrettably suffers as does every over-confident economist cum exaggerated genius in the world.

Sanusi never really condemned his class’ vanities and insensitivity which manifests in the outrageous remuneration they award to themselves and their heavily subsidized lifestyles. He even had the nerve to establish the citizenry as a bunch of unrealistic fops desperate to receive N18, 000 minimum wage: “Where do you think the government will get the money to pay for such provisions...Are you living in this world at all?” he asked.

To that, I would say; he does not live in the world in which we live.

How much is a paltry N18, 000 minimum wage compared to the vulgar salaries earned by the ruling class? I have no problem revealing my monthly salary; how justifiable is Sanusi’s total remuneration?

When was the last time he queued at a fuel station to buy fuel? Had he ever gone through life as a selfstarter? Does he have to satisfy his basic necessities at the cost of more basic necessities? The answer I guess is as instructive as his hypocrisy.

At the town hall meeting, Sanusi was in his element: infinitely loquacious, annoyingly ironic, cocksure and sparingly genial.

Simply put; Sanusi wittingly beatified imperceptiveness till it attained an elitism of sort and he got away with it.

• To be continued…

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compliance from Lotto Operators with the Lottery Act. This has generally produced more revenue, and increased the bank of funds that is available for good causes. But again, institutional difficulties persist. For example, it is not always that the imprimatur granted by the NLRC to GSM lottery-vendors is upheld by the NCC. Advanced technology and its applications will over time come to be deployed by various national institutions.

Inevitable, demand for the cooperation of the NCC, has commenced mobile banking with the prospect of ultimately ushering in a cashless society. This will produce, increased challenge not only for the CBN and the Nigerian public, but also for NCC. The NCC has done an impressive job presiding over the telecommunication explosion. Other sectors will through an interface with the new advances, acquire a novel cutting edge, which will throw up new opportunities and new applications. The important thing is to welcome all these possibilities, and acknowledge the limits of institutional responsibilities, and the imperative to offer the hand of friendship across organizational divides. All the parastatals involved – the NCC and the NLRC and the CBN must act as one body, responsible to the Nigerian people and government, in the certain hope that the nation will be better for such a synergy.

‘Oversight and regulatory responsibilities will continue to be carried out by the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, and not by any other regulatory body or institution. Conversely, were the Nigerian GSM networks required to conduct their work using financial and banking protocols, this would not make GSM providers liable to regulation by the apex’

THE NATION FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2011

22

EDITORIAL/OPINION

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HE suicide bombers created by the dreaded Boko Haram Islamic sect were on rampage during the Christmas Day celebration. These unscrupulous elements soiling the good name of Islam, the religion of peace, served the nation notice of their dastard plans. But the nation proved incapable of providing answers to their injurious machinations leading to the death of over 34 people on a day the entire world celebrated the birth of Jesus Christ.

The Boko Haram murderers seem to be developing a regular pattern of murdering Nigerians on Christmas Day through callous act of bombings. It happened same time last year in Jos, Plateau state. This year, the inhuman Boko Haram unleashed a bloody terror on Christmas Day on St. Theresa’s Church, Madalla, Suleja, Niger State through a car bomb blast killing men, women and children in the process. Not less than 16 vehicles with and without occupants were burnt beyond recognition.

On the same Christmas Day, an explosion near the Mountain of Fire church in Jos, Plateau State, claimed the life of a policeman.

A yet to be identified suicide bomber attacked the Yobe State Command Headquarters of the Department of State Security Services, SSS, Damaturu and reportedly killed instantly three SSS personnel. However, some people luckily escaped unhurt at another explosion targeted at a church at Gadaka in Yobe state on Christmas Eve. What is happening at the moment in the country is nothing but failure of intelligence and more importantly that of leadership. The security agencies have woefully failed the country despite the huge money that is being spent on them. May be those arguing that the inept security agencies are a reflection of the type of leadership in the country are correct Afterall. It has been said times without number that those agencies have failed to secure the country because President Goodluck Jonathan has also failed to give Nigerians the desired leadership necessary to waltz them out of the shackles of avoidable insecurity and poverty.

There are questions that must be answered by the Nigerian state. Is Boko Haram now mightier than this country? Are we sure that government is not providing cover for some powerful men that are sponsors of Boko

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T was the year of our lives, 2011. It was the year that had us by the scruff of the neck and swung us violently round and round threatening to extirpate us. In 2011, we, Nigerians stood at the precipice and peered down the abyss and shuddering in tremulous seizures, we took one step back.

Only but one step for we are still there at the peak of our perdition, at once mortified and stupefied, ensnared and condemned. As the year rolls by, here are five quick points we must remember: Boko Har(a)ming Ndigbo: this year will forever go into the annals of Nigeria’s history as the year of the satanic bombers call Boko Haram. As at the last count which was the Christmas day massacre of Christians in a Catholic Church, they had had about 25 hits in the year scoring about 1000 deaths and no fewer than 2000 injured.

Some wars don’t claim such number of casualties in one year. Why the Boko Haram blood fest is sad is that it is a madness without method; a fight without a cause. This is why most Nigerians, especially southerners are not convinced that Boko Haram is not a war against President Goodluck Jonathan to punish him for snatching the presidential prize from the north.

How much innocent blood do we have to shed to prove a point? Most worrisomely, how many Igbo lives are being blown up in this Boko gone bonkers? It must be put on record that Ndigbo are the ones being massacred in most of these bombings. When churches are targeted, when commercial and relaxation spots (mammy markets) are struck it is obvious that Ndigbo are targeted because they populate these places. The slaughter of Igbo worshippers at St. Theresa’s Catholic Church, Madalla and the bombing of the spare parts market in Kaduna (December 7) among others are pointers. Are Ndigbo being made the cannon fodder of Nigeria’s stupidity again?

It is hoped that Nigerians are taking note? It is hoped that the governors of Southeast states are keeping records of Igbo casualties?

Who cares for blasts victims? Who cleans up after the blasts? What becomes of the hapless victims whose only crime is that they are law-abiding citizens going about their businesses? I read not long ago about victims of the Police headquarters bombing

New Year Day: No bombing, please!

•Azazi

Haram because of political interests? What is the government doing to the matter of a judge that was forced to retire because of his reported links with Boko Haram? Why is the judge yet to be prosecuted if indeed the government is serious about nipping in the bud the sect’s injurious activities on the nation? Is the government satisfied with the performances of security chiefs? If yes, it means the government must have lost touch with the society because most Nigerians feel that they have failed badly in fortifying the country against the evil thoughts of fake Islamic marauders in the name of Boko Haram and even that of rampaging armed robbers.

The National Security Adviser, Owoye Azazi confirmed the confused state of the president when he foreclosed replacement of the service chiefs in the New Year. Why should the president retain services of service chiefs whose tenures have been riddled with insecurity turmoil?

In 48 hours time, the country will be entering a New Year and the palpitating fear that Boko Haram insurgents might strike again is in the air. Since Azazi has given the security chiefs pass mark over their past ineptitude; maybe one should seize this opportunity to call on the NSA and the security chiefs to please ensure that there is no bombing on the New Year Day and beyond. The President and his topmost security chiefs owe Nigerians this sacred duty.

Lekki toll ‘protest man’ is alive

It is sad to note that a section of the press thrives on false and sometimes malicious reportage of events. This kind of occurrence has not done the image of the media in the country any good.

One of such malicious publications was witnessed during the protest march that greeted the commencement of toll collection

EXPRESSO STEVE OSUJI

SMS O8055001684 email:steve_osuji@yahoo.com

2011: five points to remember lamenting that they were abandoned to their fate. The Presidency must as a matter of urgency, set up a body made up of highly credibly people to see to the welfare of the victims of these explosions. The least that we can do for them is to make sure that the State stands by them all the way. Starting with detailed caring and compensation for the beneficiaries of the dead and making sure the injured get the best medical care both here and abroad. The body will also look at impaired sources of livelihood and damaged properties including personal effects, vehicles and buildings. These things must also be well publicized to serve as part of the healing process of the nation.

Subsidizing the Presidency: the fuel subsidy matter was in hard contest for news space with the bombs, to the point that it garnered the potentials of being even more lethal. Why so? Essentially because the President was doing what the Yoruba would call kan ori mole over the issue. Meaning that the President has only one response to the issue, which is: subsidy must go. Let’s build new refineries and fix old ones first; let’s phase the subsidy removal; let’s cut the monstrous corruption in the sector; let’s cut down the cost of running government; to all these, we get the same refrain. If I were the president of Nigeria, I would be ashamed that the country is still a net importer of fuel instead of net exporter after 50 years of producing crude. As a president, I would tell my people that never again would we import finished products after my term of office. I would engage the oil majors and have them deliver a refinery each in three years and have them run the facilities on

concession.

But instead of giving us alternatives and heart-warming solutions the President insists on his one cap fits all option. And his 2012 budget proposal has not helped matters either. It is as if he is taking the subsidy from the people and channeling it to the State House. All that money for food, for madam’s kitchen and for a clinic? Inexplicable.

Indefensible.

Where on earth is LGA funds? Nigerians must be the most docile and unquestioning people in the world. Why is it that we cannot rise as one and ask our governors where on earth is the funds allocated for use in our 774 local council areas? If you are not too lazy my dear reader, please do this sum: average of N50 million per LGA, multiplied by 774 by 12 months. This will give you an idea of the amount that has supposedly been sunk into our rural areas in 2011. Please look around you, from Sokoto to Kogi, to Lagos and Ebonyi, the same story of desolation and misery. If as much as half of this sum has been deployed to our local areas, surely there will be less strive and rancor in the polity.

This has been our story. Will it continue like this in 2012?

Miscellany : apart from the general elections which managed to pass muster, everything else failed us. Our football was a particular debacle. We lost every tournament and championship. There were more court cases in the football house than the number of goals scored by our national football team.

Our football was hijacked by mud people and they dragged it to their habitat.

Professor Chinua Achebe jarred our sense and sensibilities once again when he threw

at the Lekki toll gate. Tribune and the Compass newspapers specifically published fictitious stories regarding the killing of one of the protesters on that day. One of them even published the corpse of the shot man. Even if the malicious gaffe of Tribune and Compass newspapers can be over looked because they had proved over time to be unreliable partners in the business of information dissemination; the Christmas festivity editorial of the supposedly revered Punch newspaper calls for serious circumspection. Why should an editorial of such high standing paper as Punch be based on fiction?

The lie in the editorial and malicious stories of these newspapers was exposed when the victim of the whole saga came out yesterday to say that the police never shot him and that he is alive, hale and hearty.

Mr. Femi Ogunsanya, an employee of Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN) Plc was sensationally but erroneously claimed to have been shot and killed by the Police during the protest against toll collection on the 49kilometre Lekki-Epe Expressway.

The detractors of the Lagos Government even claimed that his phantom wife granted an interview on a particular radio station. But Ogunsanya’s reported public response at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Panti, Yaba, rebutted the lie about his state of wellbeing.

He declared: “The whole thing was a shock to me. I have no wife and have never been married before; so, I do not know who spoke on radio.” Further more he said: “I was just coming to work that day… When I got to Lekki… I heard gunshots and decided to run for my dear life…But before I could run, some policemen and hoodlums held me and started beating me. That was the last I could remember because I passed out immediately. I was later rushed to the Accident and Emergency hospital at the toll gate. I was treated and I survived. I was not part of the protesters. I was on my way to work. I am the person in the photograph that was published in a newspaper, but you can see that I am not dead.

I was shocked when I saw it.” It is a good thing that Ogunsanya in some newspapers including the Nation yesterday proved to the public that nobody was killed in the Lekki toll gate protest afterall. Let us all imbibe the culture of responsible reporting. back at us, our jaded National Honour for the second time in seven years. Keep your medal, nothing has changed, he told the President. Dim Emeka Odumegwu Ojukwu, Ezeigbo Gburugburu and husband of delectable Bianca, died. He has left Igboland empty and vacuous. Even Col Maummer Ghaddhafi of Libya died. The desert terror; he who was as mercurial as the spelling of his name. The man who could have been immortal if he was not mortal. Alas he was mortal! Fare thee well 2011, the year of our lives.

LAST MUG: Fashola da ise le! Is it possible that our hard working governor of Lagos State, Babatunde Fashola is on strike? That is the chant out there. Many Lagosians think he is either on strike or tired or that upon winning a second term ticket, he has no point to prove anymore after a glorious first term. The pace of work on some ongoing projects seem to lend credence to the fears of the people. Though the public works corporation is not doing badly in patching up the pot holes around the metropolis, the local council development areas seem to have shot down since after the election while the state projects suffer some lull despite the fact that the rains have long stopped. Two quick examples will suffice. The Liasu Road rehab in Egbe-Idimu has been going on for more than two years and the Iyana IpajaEgbeda-Idimu Road seem to have been muddled up and abandoned. We can only say to our governor that it is not over until…

‘Let’s build new refineries and fix old ones first; let’s phase the subsidy removal; let’s cut the monstrous corruption in the sector; let’s cut down the cost of running government; to all these, we get the same refrain.

If I were the president of Nigeria, I would be ashamed that the country is still a net importer of fuel instead of net exporter after 50 years of producing crude’

THE NATION FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2011

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FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2011

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NATION SPORT Umeh apologises to Nigerians over 2011 failures •Promises better outing in 2012

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ICE PRESIDENT of the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) Mike Umeh has apologised to the country’s teeming football fans following the dismal showing of the nations national teams in the outgoing year.

Umeh, who spoke on Metrosport, a sports radio programme, acknowledged the failures of the teams, while expressing optimism but promised Nigerians that the federation will be up for a better showing next term.

He said: ‘’Nigerian football had not fared well because we lost out of international competitions. The Super Eagles out of the Nations Cup, the

By Olusoji Olukayode Falcons not going to the (Olympics in) 2012 and of course our Dream Team is not going to be there in London 2012, that’s very, very sad. And I want to use this opportunity to beg Nigerians that come 2012 there is going to be

Heartland Flickers to defend title FTER another successful outing at the recently held in Zimbabwe African Club Hockey

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Championship in Lusaka, Zambia, the Heartland Flickers of Nigeria must brace up to defend their title in Harare, Zimbabwe where another

Ikechukwu: Eguavoen not to blame for Dream Team V’s nightmare in Morocco

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HLY Shandi of Sudan’s striker, Francis Ikechukwu has explained that though the chief coach of the Dream Team V, Austin Eguavoen has become the scapegoat for the team’s inability to book a passage to London 2012 Olympic Games some certain factors worked against the ex-Super Eagles’ player and these he reckoned should be blamed for the country’s exit.

Ikechukwu told NationSport from his base that though he was dropped by Eguavoen, but the countenance on the face of the embattled ex-Super Eagles’ player read that he would have been on the plane to Morocco but for forces beyond the manager’s control. He averred that these forces should be blamed for the Dream Team V failure to qualify for the Olympic Games instead Eguavoen who was ‘unfairly’ held as the culprit.

The Delta-born player who had a

•Eguavoen

From Tunde Liadi, Owerri commendable outing with Dream Team V with three goals in four matches in their build up for a 2012 Olympic qualifying tournament only to miss the final cut for the squad to Morocco, explained that the treatment meted out to him made him to reply in the affirmative to the plea from the Sudanese national team, The Falcons to play for them at the 2012 African Cup of Nations in Gabon and Equatorial Guinea.

“I was all set to play at the Olympic Qualfiers in Morocco but something actually happened which I could not place.

I had a good outing in the friendly matches we played and I was even commended by Eguavoen and other technical personnel of the team for my show of professionalism. When I heard about my non-inclusion I had to take it in my stride since I believe I still have a long way to go in the round-leather game, “Ikechukwu told NationSport.

“Eguavoen I would say wasn’t really responsible for my exclusion but the forces dictating the pace for him were responsible.

I actually read the expression written all over his face that his hands were tied hence his resolve to drop me. I think these forces should be held responsible for our inability to play at the next Olympic Games in London next year.”

The ambitious young player stated that he was looking forward to the AFCON and would represent Sudan if considered worthy to do so and in defence of his other compatriots; Kelechi Osunwa, Sheriff Sule and Isaac Malik Ikechukwu opined that he supports their quest to seek playing time elsewhere after the seeming apathy from the Nigerian national teams to extend invitations to these ones when they desired to represent their fatherland.

Abdullahi, Fashola for Olympic Countdown Clock unveiling

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HE Executive Governor Of Lagos State Mr Babatunde Raji Fasola (SAN) and the Honourable Minister of Sports ,Alhaji Bolaji Abdullahi are expected to jointly unveil the Olympic Countdown Clock of the Nigeria Olympic Committee scheduled for Saturday, 31st December 2011 as part of her 60th year of Olympism and preparation towards the London 2012 Summer Olympic games .

The Olympic Countdown Clock, which will be situated at the Muri Okunola Park in Victoria Island, Lagos will also have in attendance Executive Members of the Lagos State Cabinet, ex-Olympians, distinguished members of the sporting family and captains of Businesses in Nigeria among others are expected to witness this epic event.

The launch of the clock, which will now be counting down to the evening of July 27, 2012, in days, hours, minutes and seconds, is seen as a significant moment in the build-up to the Games which has started to accelerate. It will be a reminder to everyone that the countdown to the start of London 2012 has well and truly begun and will herald Nigeria’s preparation to the greatest sporting show on earth.

Going by the words of Mr. Goke Dokun, Chief Executive Officer of IMPC Limited,

great expectations, with special grace of God we are going to do what is expected of us.’’

All eyes will be on the football house to redeem the country’s football image in 2012 beginning with the away tie against Rwanda in Kigali for the 2013 Nations Cup.

the company who has the great honour of working on this project, said it aligns with Pierre de Coubertin's vision of developing as a whole person through sport, life and creating a lasting legacy. This should be seen as a demonstration of those Olympic values and an ideal opportunity to develop a set of universal principles that could be applied to education and to society as a whole, as well as to sport itself.

This is also a demonstration of the commitment and assiduous work the new Nigeria Olympic Committee is doing and are now enjoining corporate organisations in Nigeria to partner the NOC for sporting and commercial achievement said Mr. Patrick Ukah, Chairman of the NOC Marketing Commission.

President of the NOC, Engr. Sani Ndanusa expressed happiness that this event is coming at a time like this and the readiness of the body to partner corporate organisations for development of sport and by extension promoting the image of Nigeria.

This clock will promote respect, excellence and friendship.

The Olympic Countdown Clock is sponsored by First Bank of Nigeria Plc and supported by Wakanow.com. The Event Suppliers and partners are BEN TV and Hip on TV.

From Tunde Liadi, Owerri edition of the championship will hold next year.

The captain of the Heartland Flickers team, Ethel Nwaneri made the disclosure to NationSport during the reception held for the team by the Imo State Government after their sixth triumph on the trot in the championship from 2004 till date.

She thanked the Imo state government for the gesture extended the team and he vowed that the Heartland Flickers would do everything within their reach to defend the trophy again In Zimbabwe, since they do not have strong opposition on the continent, she claimed.

It would be recalled that the team defeated Sunrise Ladies of Zimbabwe 5-1 in the final of the championship decided early this month in Zambia to add to their conquests in Nigeria (2004), Morocco (2005), Egypt (2007), and Nigeria (2008) and in Ghana (2010).

NATION SPORT

Keshi’s assistants takes football NFF sets up task force YSFON to grassroots in Imo should scout for players on football development T F

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HE Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) rose from its 67th Annual General Assembly in Kaduna yesterday with a mandate to the Executive Committee to immediately constitute an Independent Task Force to work out modalities for a sustainable development of the round leather game in the country.

In a communiqué signed by Dr Isaac Ayodele, Chairman of the Communiqué Drafting Committee, the congress lamented the poor outing of some of the national teams in international engagements in 2011, while acknowledging the excellent support services rendered by the NFF in terms of adequate preparation and motivation of the teams for their various engagements.

The communiqué also said that congress endorsed the proposed change of name of the Nigeria Amateur League to Nigeria Nationwide League in recognition of its critical position to football development and to enhance its glamour and marketability.

It said further that “the Congress passed a resolution for three teams each to be promoted from Divisions 1A, B, C and D of the Nigeria Nationwide League to the Nigeria

Sports Minister calls for peace among stakeholders

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INISTER of Sports and Chairman National Sports Commission (NSC) Bolaji Abdullahi has advised football stakeholders to embrace the part of peace to rescue the country’s football from its present declining state.

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the NFF AGA in Kaduna on Thursday, the Minister who was represented by his Director of Elite Sports Bolaji Ojooba said “if we must be honest with ourselves, it has not been a particular good year for Nigeria football. Our teams failed to qualify for some important competitions and our fooball’s passionate public is disenchanted and disaffected. In recognition of this situation, the NFF must stir to its full strength and ability and come up with a road map for returning Nigerian football to the glory days and even higher.

“It is true that little can be achieved without peace, harmony and tranquility. I wish to earnestly

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From Patrick Ngwaogu in Kaduna appeal to all stakeholders of the Nigeria game to unite and forge a common front to tackle the malaise and give our football the filip it needs to step back into sunshine and give our people joy through positive results once more”.

From Tony Akowe, Kaduna

National League for the 2011/2012 season.

“Congress adopted a proposal for the constitution and eventual inauguration of a single electoral Committee to conduct all elections into the NFF Executive Committee and its affiliates members including the Nigeria Premier

League, Nigeria National League, Nigeria Women’s League and Nigeria nationwide League. All elections to be conducted with one electoral code”.

The congress also ratified all the decisions of the NPL AGM held in Yenogua, Beyelsa state and passed a vote of confidence on the Aminu Maigari-led NFF Executive Committee and management.

OPERATION TOTAL DISCIPLINE

Fashola, Hamilton back Keshi

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OACH Stephen Keshi’s recent ban on the wearing of ear rings

by Super Eagles players as part of a new approach to instill discipline in the team, has received the backing of Lagos State Governor ,Babatunde Fashola and former international Paul Hamilton.

Fashola who bared his mind at the just ended boxing championship held in Lagos, opined that sportsmen generally will perform better in their chosen areas if they do away with distractions and devote more time to training.

The old adage that practice makes perfect according to the die-hard Manchester United fan, has not changed and is likely to remain relevant for a long time.

“As a father and sports lover, I am of the opinion that if our sportsmen spend the time used in making hair and wearing ear rings in training they stand a chance of achieving better results,” he said Speaking in the same vien in a telephone chat with The NationSport, former international Paul Hamilton described Keshi’s move as good decision. He reasoned that there is no way an undisciplined team can achieve its full potentials “It is a good decision for discipline to reign. We all played this game and during our time there was nothing like that. A squad is guided by rules dished out by the leader in this case, Keshi. If

By Julius Okorie you want to be part of the squad you just have to obey the rules,” said Hamilton who handled the national team between 1986 and 1989.

Recall that in justifying the ban, Keshi described his re-building process as serious business that has no room for distractions.

HE leadership of Youth Sports Federation of Nigeria (YSFON), Imo state Chapter under ex-Super Eagles’ striker, Sunny Ndubuisi Opara has rounded off another football competition in Isu Local Government Area (LGA) of the state, aimed at fishing out more hidden talents at the grassroots.

The competition, ‘the 4th Edition of the Isu Unity Cup, was sponsored by the former Accountant General of the State, Chief Paully Ajoko who is an illustrious son of the area and the two finalists were Uboro Ekwe and Ekwe communities in the LGA. Ekwe had featured at the previous three editions and got to the final on each occasion, but they lost the three finals to their neighbour, Amandugba. Their qualification for the final this term was made it possible after their triumph over their bogey team, Amandugba in the semi final albeit via spot-kicks.

Despite series of incursions and penetrations into the vital area of their neighbour, Uboro Ekwe, Ekwe was unable to convert the chances that came their way and in fact it was Uboro that

Bolaji laments lack of patriotism in Nigerian players

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PORTS Minister and Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Bolaji Abdullahi yesterday lamented the low level of commitment and patriotism of Nigerian players invited to wear the national colour in recent times.

The Minister however challenged the Nigeria Football Federation to fashion out a roadmap for the development of Nigeria football, appealing to stakeholders in the round leather game to unite and forge a common front to tackle the malaise in the nation’s football.

Addressing the 67th Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) in Kaduna yesterday, the minister lamented that the year 2011 was particularly bad for the nation’s football, with the country

•Bolaji Abdullahi •Noudoeinin Ludovic Commandant for Joint Border Patrol Nigeria-Benin, delivers a speech at Bada’s lying-in-stateand Tobi (first son) princess Adesumbo (wife) Temiola (Daughter) Temi (second son) PHOTO: JOHN EBHOTA

From Tony Akowe, Kaduna losing out in major international competitions.

The Minister noted that while nothing can be achieved without peace, harmony and tranquility, stakeholder in the nation’s football must forge a common front to tackle the malaise affecting football in the country and give football the fillip it needs to step back into sunshine and “give our people joy through positive results once more.

According to him, “the last quarter of the year brought much to worry about.

While we cannot continue to moan over spilt milk, we must reflect hard on the factors that undermined our teams in those important matches and competitions and root out those evils.

From Tunde Liadi, Owerri drew the first blood mid way into the first half when they checkmated the offside trap of their opponents for the curtain-raiser.

Ekwe equalised from the penalty spot not too long after and there no more grals until the blast of the referee’s whistle for the end of the match. Ekwe, however, won the spot kick battle to record their first title at the competition after four attempts.

The donor of the trophy for the competition, Chief Paully Ajoko stressed that the tourney was conceived in 2008 with the sole aim of identifying hidden talents, showcasing them on the national stage and encouraging unity amongst the entire Isu communities has been a huge success and he thanked YSFON for the supportive role they have played to make that possible.

He promised to continue to bankroll the tourney and averred that the technical report from the previous editions showed that hidden talents noticed have been allowed to blossom and were on the verge of securing lucrative deals.

ORMER Nigeria Football Association (NFA) technical director, Tunde Disu has advised asssistants to Super Eagles’ coach, Stephen Keshi should help identify talents that can fit into the team.

Stephen keshi who is ably assisted

by Daniel Amokachi, Sylvanus Okpala and Ike Shorunmu, were counseled by Disu to visit match venues with a bid to helping the coach discover suitable players for the different departments of the team.

Speaking on metrosports, the former Flying Eagles coach said: ‘’The three coaches that are working with him, that’s their job too, to scout for players, they have to go and watch matches and give him the right names in different departments, in the midfield, in the attack. I know Okpala, Okpala was a very fine midfielder when he was playing, he too should be able to come up with one or two three players.

Relating his experience as Eagles’ assistant in the 90s, the former international said: ‘’I remember when I was with Westerhof, I was the one who brought Uche Okechukwu, and Ben Iroha. I picked them right from

By Olusoji Olukayode

Kaduna when they came to play against a local team in Kaduna.’’

The Super Eagles of Nigeria face Rwanda in a 2013 African Nations Cup qualifier in February and already home-based players are in camp preparing for the encounter.

•Amokachi

Bada’s final journey •As Sports fraternity stands still for Olympian on Thursday

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ATE Olympic silver medallist, Sunday Bada will be buried in his hometown, Kabba, Kogi state today. Bada would have clocked 42 next year but for a cardiac arrest which claimed his life on December 12 in Lagos.

Tears flowed freely at his lyingin-state at the main bowl of the National stadium on Thursday as his wife, three children, friends, colleagues and well-wishers paid their last respect to a man whom many claimed touched their lives positively.

If the dead could rise, Bada who was cladded in the Nigerian Police uniform and laid peacefully in a silver coloured casket would have risen as incessant encomiums were showered on the ‘gentle giant’ who slept on.

Loud wailing rent the ari, just as many wore T shirts with Bada’s photo to mourn his death. His erstwhile colleagues from Benin Republic led by the Commandant of the joint patrol of Benin, Ludovic Noudofinin also paid their tribute.

However, prior to the lying-instate, some members of the Sydney Olympic team which Bada was a part of, had a mock race to honour him. Olympian, Enefiok Udobong, was in fact, a pitiful state as he cried his heart out at the loss of a man who left his mark on the field of athletics in Nigeria and the world.

The late quarter miler won three medals at World Indoor Championships, including a gold medal in 1997 at the Paris event.

He also won silver medals at the 1993 (Toronto) and 1995 (Barcelona) competitions Additionally, he was a part of the Nigerian team that won the silver medal in 4 x 400 metres relay at the 2000 Olympics. Nigeria established a national record time of 2:58.68 minutes in that race.He set his personal best of 44.63 seconds at the 1993 World Championships where he finished fifth. This is the second fastest time by a Nigerian sprinter, after Innocent Egbunike best of 44.17 s.

Bada’s indoor best of 45.51 s is still the African record for the event.

He was born in Kaduna. He broke through at the regional level in 1990, with bronze medals in both

By Stella Bamawo 200 and 400 metres at the 1990 African Championships. The next year, at the 1991 All-Africa Games, he won silver in the 400 metres. Bada became Nigerian 400 metres champion in 1990 through 1997 and 2001. He also participated in, and won, the Indian

championships in 1994.

Bada made his definite breakthrough in 1993, when he won the silver medal at the World Indoor Championships.

He retired following the 2001 season. Until his demise, Bada was the Technical Adviser of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN).

•Late Sunday Bada at the main bowl of National stadium Surulere on Thursday.

PHOTO: BOLA OMILABU

EMPOWERMENT Micro-credit facility for 80,000 Delta

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CRIME

CAPACITY

Guardian pays N20,000 for assaulting girl

‘Our passion about the youth’

Lagos

FRIDAY DECEMBER 30, 2011

Anambra 40

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Email: news_extra@yahoo.com

Ogun holds breast cancer awareness campaign

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•Governor Amosun

REAST cancer appears to be on the rise in Nigeria. An expert says about 33.6 per cent out of 10,000 women in Nigeria are affected with breast cancer annually. While it can afflict women of all ages, it is believed that 15 per cent of the cases are found among women of less than 30 years old.

Breast cancer, which is a disease of the cell, is an uncontrolled and abnormal division in any part of the body or the breast.

This was the view of an Oncologist at the Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital,

From Ernest Nwokolo, Abeokuta

Sagamu, Dr Ayodeji Agboola, who was a resource person at a workshop on “Breast and Cervical Cancer” held at the Valley View Government House, Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital.

The workshop was put together by the state Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development in order to sensitise women on how to prevent and manage it through early detection before it takes a deadly course on victims. No

fewer than 1,000 women participated in the breast and cervical cancer awareness programme.

Agboola noted that change in size or thickness is among the signs and symptoms of breast cancer, even as he advised every woman to examine and feel each of the breasts through Breast Self Examination (BSE) for observation of possible abnormalities of the breast.

“Breast cancer affects at least 116 out of every 100,000 Nigerian women in a year, and the lifetime risk for all women for developing

this cancer is 10 per cent,” Dr Agboola disclosed.

Wife of the state governor, Mrs Olufunso Amosun, who was represented by wife of the Speaker, Ogun State House of Assembly, Mrs Oluwaseun Adekunbi, urged governments to pay more attention to breast cancer and commit reasonable resources to it.

Mrs Amosun noted that due to lack of funds and resources to treat or manage cancer cases, •Continued on Page 26

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NON-GOVERNMENTAL organisation (NGO) Ifeanyi Uba Foundation (IUF) is to distribute free kerosene to indigent persons and widows at the cost of N50 per litre this Yuletide.

Besides, the foundation is to recruit 400 unemployed youths in Anambra State. Out of this number, 200 people will be sent to China to acquire more skills.

The foundation, which would be launched soon at Awka, the state capital, according to the founder of the group Dr. Ifeanyi Uba, was aimed at reducing crime and poverty in Anambra State.

Furthermore, the foundation would also distribute about 25 trailer loads of rice to indigent people, physically challenged and widows in the 21 local government areas of the state.

Dr Uba said: “We want to touch people’s lives in a different way. This distribution will be done through the churches and traditional institutions, among other groups.

“What is very important to me now is to create job opportunities for the youth. We want to invest in manpower that God has given us. This is not a project of capital oil but that of Ifeanyi Uba Foundation.”

Furthermore, he said that his aim was to put up about 50 factories within the next three years to create more jobs for the teeming unemployed youths.

“My main aim is to be of good help to the people of Anambra State and that is the essence of launching this foundation. We need to sensitise the people. We want to touch their lives in a special way,” Uba said.

Uba had before now purchased camcorders, tape recorders and cameras numbering about 200 for members of the state council of Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ).

He also donated N5m to the body to furnish its secretariat in Awka which is being built

by Godwin Ezeemo, another

•Anambra State chapter of Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) chairperson, Tochukwu Omelu, receiving the items from CEO, Capital Oil, Dr. Uba inset: cameras, camcoders, tape recorders donated by the organisation

Foundation caters for the needy The poor get free kerosene 200 for training in China From Nwanosike Onu, Awka

philanthropist.

It would be recalled that the council was the only one in the Southeast zone without a secretariat. Dr. Uba was recentlygiven the (NUJ) 2011 Man-of-the-Year award by the

union. The 2010 edition was given to Governor Peter Obi. In her remarks, chairman of the organisation Mrs Tochukwu Omelu described Uba’s gesture as awesome.

Such a thing, according to her, had never happened in the history of the body, adding that none

of the friends of the body has been as helpful as Uba. “You are a man of honour, integrity and a gentleman. We are going to use all these gadgets to better the lives of people in the society. The union is happy with the idea of the foundation and we are ready to affect the lives of

so many youths in the society.

Omelu further explained that the idea of the award to Uba was as a result of his kerosene scheme that had touched so many souls and his decision to employ mainly the youth in his establishments across the country.

THE NATION

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FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2011

Tinubu foundation fetes widows

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BOUT 100 elderly women and widows in MosanOkunola Local Council Development Area in Lagos State on Wednesday, went home smiling and praising the national leader of the Action Congress of Nigeria, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his wife Senator Oluremi.

The women received cash, rice and vegetable oil courtesy of a non-governmental organisation, Bola Tinubu Foundation.

The gesture, according to the wife of the council chairman, Mrs Oyedoyin Mafe, was geared towards cushioning the economic hardship in the community.

Mrs Mafe said the belief of the Tinubus in caring for the needy necessitated the distribution of the items.

She urged wealthy Nigerians to share with the less-privileged.

“All fingers are not equal.

Those who have today should remember those who do not have enough. In this season of goodwill, what is important is to share the joy and happiness of the moment with the needy in our midst; to put smiles on the faces of all in the neighbourhood, so •Continued from page 25

many Nigerian women often succumbed to painful and untimely death as a result of breast cancer.

“Compared to other diseases or other forms of cancer, breast cancer should receive a proportionate share of resources and attention. Breast and cervical cancer in less developed countries are major public health issues.

“It is a leading cause of cancerrelated deaths in women in our country and all this is due to certain factors like lack of funds and

•Mrs Mafe (left) assisted by ACN women leader at Mosan-Okunola Local Council Development Area, Mrs Aramide Opaleye in presenting the items to Mrs Emmanuel PHOTO: TAJUDEEN ADEBANJO

By Tajudeen Adebanjo

that we can all be happy during this season,” she said.

One of the beneficiaries, Mrs Beatrice Adewunmi thanked the

foundation for the gesture.

“I really appreciate the gesture of the foundation. I pray the foundation continues to wax stronger and grow from strength to strength. If our leaders have

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gesture of foundation.

“We thank this foundation for turning its attention to the people at the grassroots, to the lessprivileged, the needy and the voiceless,” she said.

Ogun holds awareness campaign on breast cancer resources.

“Healthcare is particularly important to women, not just for their own well-being but also because of their care-giving roles. This makes women very visible in the healthcare system, and creates the misconception that health projects automatically address women’s issues and empowerment,” Mrs Amosun said.

Also, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Devel-

opment, Mrs Elizabeth Sonubi said the workshop became necessary in view of the hazards the breast and cervical cancers posed to the health and joy of women as well as the high premium Governor Ibikunle Amosun’s administration placed on the well-being of Ogun women.

Sonubi said that the Ministry of Women Affairs has been influencing policies and decisions on critical issues affecting women, and has been interacting with

Group donates to primary schools HE Ode-Itsekiri Community Development Committee (CDC), Warri South Local Government Area of Delta State has donated learning items worth millions of naira to 13 primary schools.

Presenting the items to the lucky schools in Warri, the chairman Hon. Ebobo Araye, said the kind gesture was to complement the laudable efforts of Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan in human capital devel-

been doing this, the society would have been better,” Mrs Adewunmi said.

Also speaking, Mrs Victoria Emmanuel, another beneficiary urged Nigerians to emulate the

From Polycarp Orosevwotu, Warri

opment.

The items comprised 100 desks, 4,000 books, 2 DSTV Satellite dishes for viewing centres at Orugbo Community and Ode-Itsekiri, 20 chairs, two power generating sets, two plasma TV sets, among others.

Hon. Araye praised Governor Uduaghan for providing the funds

that enabled the CDC to acquire the items for the primary schools, even as he called on Deltans to continue to support the Uduaghan government.

Present at the unveiling of the items were the representative of the state government, Hon. Ebobo Araye, chairman, Ode-Itsekiri CDC, Mr. Austin Oniyasan, Secretary, OdeItsekiri CDC, and Chief P.D. Yalaju, among others.

•Founder, Glorious Islamic Centre (GIC) Alhaji Akin Laguda (left) presenting a plaque to Justice Ishola Olorunnimbe during the GIC first year anniversary and award presentation at Adeniyi Jones, Ikeja, Lagos

stakeholders through regular advocacy, consultations and dialogues in ways that could be beneficial to the health of the womenfolk.

“It is indeed part of this administration’s desire to stem the tide of untimely death caused by cancer.

In this regard, I must say with joy, that this ministry has added yet

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another feather in its cap towards reducing this menace in our society.

“I’m particularly proud to be associated with the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, whose effort at shaping the lives of our women and children has remained ceaseless,” Sonubi said.

World temperature to rise by 2020

HE Environmental Rights Action/ Friends of the Earth Nigeria (ERA/ FoEN, a nongovernmental organisation, has said the world temperature would rise above three Degrees Celsius by 2020 if urgent actions were not taken to prevent it.

Its Executive Director, Reverend Nnimmo Bassey, said the developed countries which were responsible for the emissions into the atmosphere showed no commitment to the reduction of green house emissions.

Bassey spoke to journalists at the public presentation of his book entitled To Cook a Continent – Destructive Extraction and the Climate Crisis in Africa.

He urged the Federal Government to embrace a green economy which emphasises transition from a fossil fuel economy to renewable energy. By this, he said, there would be fewer emissions into the atmosphere.

Bassey, who was among discussants at the Conference of the Parties (COP) 17 on Climate

By Wale Adepoju

Change in Durban, South Africa, said the conference didn’t provide the much-needed driving force to reduce global warming. “The resolution in Durban is to have four years of talks to draw up a new agreement that will require a further four years before coming to effect,” he added.

Quoting the International Energy Agency (IEA), Bassey warned, that if emissions were not reduced by 2017, the world would be at risk of irreversible climate change.

On the UNFCCC, he said: “Its negotiations were to establish greenhouse gas (ghg) emissions, reductions, commitments, and to secure funding and technology from developed countries to help them adapt to climate change.

H e added: “The other negotiation is to decide on a method for monitoring, reporting and verifying (MRV) the targets agreed upon.”

THE NATION

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FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2011

UK partnership lifts health firm

By Ogochukwu Ikeje

•Mr Banjoko

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ANAGING Director of a health management organisation (HMO), Expatcare, Mr Bimbo Banjoko, has said the firm’s operations and effectiveness will be greatly enhanced following a crucial partnership with a United Kingdom-based company, Diet.

The pact has availed Expatcare of what Banjoko called “an ini-

tial cash process of $2m,” which, according to him, can be expanded to $20m subject to the HMO’s wish.

It is a huge boost for Expatcare, he said.

“The partnership with Duet will allow us to expand our network, and partner with banks for online payment,” he told Newsextra.

“It will also help us to embark on mass education and other educative processes through advertisements.”

Banjoko said Expatcare was founded in 2004 with a vision “to ensure that every Nigerian has healthcare delivery at affordable cost, invespective of social status”.

He regretted, however, that majority of Nigerians have yet to key into health insurance owing largely to under-capitalisation

and inadequate legislation.

Banjoko explained that health insurance has not been made compulsory for every employer of more than 10 people.

He said there is “no compulsion on the part of employers to cause their workers to take health policies.”

The MD said the UK partnership is of so much significance to Expartcare because investors are usually reluctant to put their

money in health management firms, knowing that genuine HMOs are not out for huge profits but provide maximum care for needy masses at affordale cost.

Banjoko, an insurance technocrat with many years experience at the top of several insurance firms, spoke further on the UK pact.

“The word to describe it is ‘elated,’” he said. “We are elated because it shows confidence for

We are elated because the partnership shows confidence in Nigeria. In an era where people have the impression that Nigerians are fraudulent, the UK company after going through the processes, is supporting us for the betterment of Nigerians

Nigeria. In an era where people have the impression that Nigerians are fraudulent, it is much joy for me to have people who after going through the processes, said they want to give us money to let our vision run unhindered for the betterment of Nigerians.

“That is cause for joy, and it goes to show that not every Nigerian is fraudulent.”

The HMO boss also said the UK company had confidence in Expatcare’s commitment to its vision.

Banjoko said his organisation “solicits the patronage of people to buy health schemes and have their health needs taken care of at hospitals that are signed on to our panel or network of providers (hospitals) across the country.”

In the event that a patient is not treatable at one hospital, Banjoko said, an alternative hospital will be contacted by the HMO on behalf of the patient.

Council empowers 400

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O fewer than 400 people in Olorunda Local Government Area of Osun State have benefited from the Eniolorunda Poverty Alleviation Programme sponsored by the council caretaker chairman, Mr. Abdulakeem Okunade.

The beneficiaries who were drawn from the 11 wards of the council received 30 motorcycles, 22 power generating sets, 22 grinding machines, 110 handsets, 61 barbing clippers, 51 fishing net and other farm tools.

Some of the power generating sets were donated to the palaces of some traditional rulers and police stations.

While distributing the items to the beneficiaries at the Igbona, the council headquarters, Okunade reiterated his administration’s commitment to eradicating poverty in the area.

Okunade, who identified unemployment as a major challenge which the country is experiencing, maintained that lack of jobs for teeming youths have led to restiveness and insecurity.

According to him, the council had earlier engaged 500 youths in the first phase of its poverty alleviation programme. He also said that the second phase was targeted at petty traders, artisans and widows in order to improve their living conditions.

He emphasised that the militancy in the southern part of the country, Boko Haram insurgence in the north and incidents of

•The items donated From Adesoji Adeniyi, Osogbo

armed robbery, kidnapping, assassination among others across the country could be partly attrib-

uted to unemployment.

Okunade also noted that people are drifting away from agriculture which was the mainstay of the country’s economy, disclosing that this informed the

The council had earlier engaged 500 youths in the first phase of its poverty alleviation programme. He also said that the second phase was targeted at petty traders, artisans and widows in order to improve their living conditions

council’s decision to distribute farm implements to boost farming. The chairman, therefore, assured the people of the council that necessary efforts would be made to improve their welfare.

Some of the beneficiaries, Yinusa Akanji, Hakeem Balogun, Lukman Ayanleke, Tunde Akeyo, Mutahiru Lasun, Fakunle Raheem and Kaseem Salam, expressed their apprecia-

tion to the council chief and members of his caretaker committee for the gifts.

Speaking on behalf of other beneficiaries, the Oloba of Oba Ile, Oba Michael Adebisi, who received a power generating set, praised the council for the initiative. He, therefore, called on the people to support the Okunade administration to enable him to serve them better.

THE NATION FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2011

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• Uduaghan

Delta lifts 80, 000 people

ELTA STATE government has empowered 80,000 persons through its micro credit facility since the inception of the present administration in 2007, the state’s Deputy Governor, Prof. Amos Utuama, has said.

Utuama said this in Warri at the empowerment programme of Eagle Flight Micro Finance Bank Ltd in collaboration with the Word of Life Bible Church.

He said that the importance of micro credit scheme in the empowerment of youths could not be over-emphasised as it has helped them to become self-reliant.

Utuama praised the two establishments for sustaining their empowerment project for six years which, he said, had added value to many

Community leader challenges Obi on rural development A

Community leader in Nkwelle Ezunaka, Oyi local Government of Anambra State, Chief Francis Nwoye Beluchukwu, has tasked the Anambra State Governor,Peter Obi on rural development and infrastructure, saying that the governor was yet to impact positively on the people of his community.

Beluchukwu, who is the Ezi Nkwelle Village Chairman and Nkwellezunaka Youth Vanguard chairman, spoke to reporters after the commissioning of a 500KVA transformer procured by the community and the flag-off of the rehabilitation of the village roads by his executive.

According to him, the state government has not lived up to expectation in areas of providing water, accessible roads and electricity, adding that the developmental strides in the community were done through self help from residents .

He disclosed that village, through its collective effort, has procured 500KVA transformer to boost electricity and rehabilitated the roads within the village.

He estimated the transformer and the electrification programme to cost

Ondo

HE Abia State government has expressed its determination to reclaim and rehabilitate 20 per cent of gully erosion sites in the state in 2012.

Governor Theodore Orji made the promise at a meeting with prominent Abia indigenes in Umuahia, saying the state was one of the six states benefitting from the World Bank Ecological Fund.

“Government will endeavour to reclaim and rehabilitate 20 per cent of our gully sites by the

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Nigerian gets UK varsity appointment •From left: Mr. Tunde Opaleye, member, Railway Passengers Forum, with Mr Richard Uwayzor and Mr Ayobami Adewuyi, trustees of Railway Passengers Forum during the end of the year party of the corporation in Lagos PHOTO: SOLOMON ADEOLA

Foundation to empower widows, others

From Adimike George,

N9million.

He insisted that the community which has enjoyed relative peace and crime free despite its strategic location as a bye-pass from the commercial city of Onitsha, will continue to enjoy the peace especially this yuletide because of the security apparatus and personnel in the community.

The community leader who also heads the security department in the community, called on the people of the community to join hands in securing the lives and property of the people, adding that the issue of security should be the concern of all.

Speaking on security of lives and property he commended the state Police Command for the cordial relationship with the state vigilance groups, a development he said has helped in combating crime.

Abia to reclaim erosion sites

Delta peoples’ lives.

According tothe Deputy Governor , “we believe if everyone is empowered, there will be peace; it is a great initiative and we support the programme of human capital development”.

He congratulated the founder of the Church and the management of the bank as well as the beneficiaries, and prayed God to sustain them.

The Church’s poverty alleviation programme empowered six persons with a car each, 10 persons with a tricycle each and 100 persons with grinding machines, respectively.

The bank has a grand prize of a car which was won by one Mrs Ann Orumade who thanked God for the gift and assured she would put the car into judicious use.

Speaking with newsmen later, the founder of the Church, Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor, said that he was very fulfilled.

“I feel fulfilled when I see other people full of joy. It is a blessing. We thank God,” he said.

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HE Imah Nsa Adegoke Foundation (TINAF) says it has instituted various empowerment schemes, aimed at empowering widows and the less privileged in Cross River State .

The founder, Mrs Imah Adegoke, disclosed this in an interview with journalistsfs in Calabar.

The schemes include Youth Empowerment Scheme (YES), Scheme to Educate the Poor

Cross River (STREP) and Scheme for Empowering Widows in Nigeria (SEWING).

Adegoke said that the YES programme was meant to award business development grant to deserving students in tertiary institutions in the state.

“We realised that it is best to award

Tougher anti-child abuse laws sought

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non-governmental organization, De Norsemen Club International has called on the National Assembly, state legislatures and other well meaning stakeholders to review the Child Rights Act in order to prescribe stringent punishment against child abuse and abandonment.

The Abuja Chapter Chairman of the group, Mr Segun Fakehinde, said child abandonment had been on the increase because the law was not hard on offenders.

Fakehinde, who spoke when the club paid a Christmas visit to the Abuja Children’s Home in Karu, a suburb of the Federal Capital Territory, noted that the issue should be a priority to the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development at the Federal and State levels.

He enjoined other NGOs to rave up advocacy on the issue.

Fakehinde according to a statement by the Club’s spokesman Abdul Abubakar in Abuja said: “I know that Nigeria is a signatory to many protocols on child rights, but it is not enough. The national child policy should be such that child abandonment attracts severe punishment.

Borno From Sanni Onogu, Abuja

“I believe child abuse especially child abandonment will be drastically curbed if offenders are well punished.

“As a group, we shall continue to play our role in the society; our focus is humanity.

That’s why from the little we have, we’ve come to share with the children here.

“God is always happy when we help and show love to ourselves at periods like this and even beyond.”

The statement reads: “The Abuja Chapter Chairman of Norsemen Club also charged public-spirited individuals to imbibe the spirit of caring and sharing with others particularly the less privileged, enjoining the children to live according to the tenets of Jesus Christ, as prescribed in the Holy Bible.

“The club presented items such as bags of rice, cartons of noodles, detergents, toilet tissues and confectionaries, to the representative of FCT Director of Social Development.

•Amir (President) Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria, Lagos State Area Unit, Alhaji Qasim Badrudeen (left) discussing with Aladeshonyin of Noforija, Oba Babatunde Ogunlaja, during the monarch’s visit to the MSSN camp at Noforija, Epe, Lagos.

37

business development grants to deserving students who demonstrate considerable levels of determination and skill as student entrepreneurs.”.

She said that 20 students had benefited from the scheme, adding that cheques for various sums were issued to students whose business proposals were deemed viable under the YES programme.

“The foundation intends to do this annually with emphasis on the physically challenged, and organise seminars to teach youths and selected rural dwellers business development skills,’’ Adegoke stated.

She further said that the STEP programme was in response to the inability of widows, physically challenged and the poor to educate their children.

“TINAF decided to offer an opportunity for education to these children.

“We hope to partner educational institutions, governments and donor agencies to offer scholarships to children and persons in this usually excluded and vulnerable group of persons,’’ she said.

According to her, SEWING is aimed at creating an enabling legal and financial environment and framework for the enforcement of widows’ rights.

She also stated that the project had been launched in all the local governments in Cross River.

Adegoke further said that a bill on the right of widows was already before the House of Assembly.

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HE Leeds Metropolitan University, UK, has appointed Director of Leadmode Resource Centre, Dr. Fakunle Odifa, an academic supervisor of its doctoral degree.

Odifa, who holds a Ph.D. in Economics from Leicester University, will look after doctoral students at the Faculty of Business and Law of the Leeds Metropolitan University.

Despite his Economic background, Odifa insists that his academic interests are wide range. At the top of his proxity is “learning and development.”

PHOTO: BADE DARAMOLA

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Fuel subsidy: Ekiti ALGON tackles govt

HE Association of Local Government of Nigeria (ALGON), Ekiti State chapter, has urged the Federal Government to stop the proposed removal of fuel subsidy in the interest of the poor masses The ALGON Chairman, Chief Joel Omoniyi who made the call in a statement signed by ALGON Special Assistant on Media, Mr Gbenga Sodeinde, described the proposed removal of fuel subsidy as a game plan to make things difficult for the people at the grassroots Omoniyi, who also doubles as the caretaker Chairman of Efon Local Government in the state, said the agenda was targeted at making a few people become super-rich, thereby widening further the gap between the wealthy and the poor.

According to him,“The issue of the subsidy is a pathetic thing as few people in the country will benefit from the programme while many will suffer neglect.The truth is if the subsidy is removed, the government will not make good use of it. It has been tried several times and failed,” he lamented He added that if the subsidy should be removed at all cost, government should build more refineries or make the existing ones to function optimally so that this could reduce the suffering the people would go through Omoniyi called on the Federal Government to find a lasting solution to insecurity in the country

The ALGON chair , however praised the Ekiti State government for the Increased Internal Generated Revenue in the state from N109 million naira to N600 hundred million naira in November 2011, saying this would bring rapid development to the grassroots and reduce much dependence on the Federal Government The association urged residents of the state to continue to support the government so as to ensure that the dream of the Fayemi administration to reposition the state and make life better for the people is fulfilled ALGON chair praised Dr Kayode Fayemi for appointing the former ALGON Chairman in the state, Chief Biodun Akin-Fasae as Special Adviser in Governor’s Office, describing Chief Fasae as a very competent, responsible, reliable and fit for the new appointment.

Speaking on the construction of 5 kilometre road network mandated for all the 16 local chairmen by the Governor, Chief Omoniyi disclosed that now that rain has finally stopped, contractors had since moved to the sites, assuring that all the roads would be completed before the next rainy reason to meet up with the target of the state government .

Institute gets new executive members THE Chartered Institute Of Taxation Of Nigeria, (CITN) Ibadan District,has sworn in and inaugurated its new executive members with Dr. Isiaka Oloruntoyin Yusuff as the chairman.

In his address, the President, Chartered Institute of Taxation (CITN), Mr. John Femi Sunday Jegede, thanked the new executive members for the successful change of baton from one administration to another which CITN is noted for.

He, therefore, congratulated Dr. Yusuff and his team for imbibing the democratic tenets of the institute, assuring the members of the council’s commitment to efficiency in all areas of tax practice and administration in the country, West African sub-region and entire Africa.

The president also advised the government that taxation be given serious attention in the government business, saying: “the creation of the position of Special Adviser on Revenue and Taxation in the office of the Executive Governor is a sine qua non to the attainment of this objective. The adviser must be a tax expert (i.e a member of CITN) who will assist the governors to formulate tax policies.”

He also urged the National and state Houses of Assembly to create taxation committee as part of the standing committees of the House.

end of 2012.’’

He said Abia people would be adequately sensitised on the prevention and control of soil erosion and other ecological threats.

Orji also announced that efforts would be intensified to provide infrastructure necessary for the industrial growth and development of the state.

“Moribund industries, such as Aba Textile Mills Plc and Golden Guinea Plc, would be rehabilitated to start full scale production,’’ he said.

Orji said that government had concluded arrangements to build a cement factory in Arochukwu Local Government Area of the state.

He said the government’s new economic agenda would be sustained and strengthened in 2012. “ A few weeks ago, a new economic empowerment programme was launched in the state by the Federal Government.

“The programme christened ‘YOU WIN’, is

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NGO fetes 3,000 children

O fewer than 3, 000 children were last week hosted to a party by a nongovernmental organisation, Joy of a Child Foundation.About 30 orphanage and physically challenged homes were feted to a Christmas party at the Agidingbi Primary School, Ikeja, Lagos.

The programme which started about 2:00pm had children from Wesley School for the Hearing Impaired, Sari-Iganmu Inclusive Unit For Children with Special Needs, Nigeria Red Cross, Family Vocation, Atunda-Olu School for the physically challenged, African Children Recue Foundation and others with food items, kitchen utensils and cash given to them.

Speaking at the event, the President of the foundation, Evangelist Ezewanne Elishamma said that the party was to extend the love that Christmas bring to the needy and dejected in the society.

She said: “Children are the precious stones in which God wants to use to rebuild the ruins of our country, thus, they need our care and love to lead a better life”.

She said that the task towards preparing today children toward relevant in tomorrow’s world rely solely on the care and support given to them to fulfill their God given potential.

The cleric further noted that the Christmas season should be a time when Nigerians must begin to reflect on the security and safety of the Nigerian child which is increasingly threatened by civil unrest, kidnapping and bombing in most part of the country.

She recalled that the bomb blast in Suleja which claimed mostly woman and children

• Orji aimed at encouraging skills acquisition, entrepreneurship and economic empowerment of the youth.’’

He said the programme would help in reducing unemployment in the state.

Group honoured for philanthropy

HE Women Protection Organisation and Inner Wheel Club, Lagos, were honoured last week at the fifth Lagos Island Local Government Education Authority week for their philanthropic roles in the society. The event was held at the Christ Church Cathedral Primary School Hall, Lagos Island.

The groups are nong o v e r n m e n t a l organisations given to philanthropy. Their kind disposition puts smiles on the faces of the lessprivileged.For this reason, the education authority of the oldest local government in the nation, Lagos Island Local Government, at its fifth education week decided to reward them on December 9.

The rendition of the national anthem, led by the master of ceremony, Mr Teslim Amusat, assisted by Abiola Olugbenga, set the ball rolling for the fifth Lagos Island Local Government Education Authority week, tagged: Education week.

Pupils from various schools looked bright •From left: Mr Maiyegun; Dr Godwin Towobola and Mrs Toyin and well dressed in their Towobola at the event neatly pressed uniforms.

Briefly •President, Chartered Institute of Administration, Prof Ofili Ugwudioha (left ) with the registrar, Chief J.A. Okoronkwo, at the induction ceremony of new members of the institute

Abia

By Adeola Ogunlade

is an indication that Nigeria still remains unsafe haven for children who are often times victims of various dastardly acts orchestrated to satisfy the selfish interest of few individuals.

One of the beneficiaries of the programme from Atunda-Olu School for the physically Challenge said: “I am very happy for this show of love to the less privileged by the foundation which should be emulated by all so that together we can make the world a better place most especially for our children”.

Some of them entertained guests with cultural dances and songs, which further enlivened the occasion.

This was followed by session for career talk organised for them. A guardian and counselor, Mrs Taiwo Popoola, urged them to be obedient and law abiding. She also called for the upholding the child education right by parents and government.

Guests who turned out for the occasion included Chairman, Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), who was represented by Hon Omiyale Kayode; while Hon Yaqub Balogun was represented by the duo of Jacob Emiola- Dakobiri and Education Secretary for Ikeja Local Government, Alhaja Riskat Shittu.

For the LILGEA Education Secretary, Mr Moshood Maiyegun who was the Chief Host, said the one of the ways to appreciate the philanthropic gestures of the WOPO, Inner Wheel and others was to present them with recognition plaque.

For the awardees, it was a day to celebrate as their little contributions was being recognised by the education authority hoping to do more to lift the under privileged.

The WOPO in a citation was honoured because of its relentless effort since inception in 1996 in bringing succour to the poor; the recitation shown that it had trained over 8,500 in skills aquistion among others.

While the Inner Wheel in conjuction with WOPO has presented pupils with hearing impediment with over 2,000 hearing aids among others.

Community holds prayer summit

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HE 2012 edition of Alor Annual prayer summit, Alor prayer project and Thanksgiving Day begins at St Charles Boromeo Catholic Church ,St Andrews Anglican Church and Christ Kingdom Life Ministries in Alor, Idemili south Local Government Area, Anambra State on January 1 Holding with theme: I am on the Lord’s side, the two-day programme will future healing, business summit,teaching sessions from Rev; Cannon Barnabas Nwajide and other ministers of the gospel.

• Some of the childrenand their teachers dancing on the occasion

THE NATION FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2011

29

PEOPLE THE NATION

A SEVEN-PAGE SECTION ON SOCIETY

Foreign Affairs Minister Ambassador Gbenga Ashiru and his brother Otunba Bimbola Ashiru, the Ogun State Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, were on Christmas Eve honoured by the paramount ruler of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, in Ijebu-Ode NWOKOLO ERNEST was there.

PHOTO: DAVID ADEJO

•From left: Ambassador Ashiru; his wife Omokehinde; Otunba Ashiru and his wife Oluwakemi

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OR the Ashirus of Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State, December 24 was a day of double honours. Ambassador Gbenga Ashiru and Otunba Bimbola Ashiru were honoured by no less a person than the monarch of their town, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona.

The monarch held a special luncheon for the brothers for doing the town proud.

The ambassador is the Foreign Affairs Minister and his brother, the Ogun State Commissioner for Commerce and Industry.

The expansive Awujale’s Palace was alive with gaily dressed men and women.

In 2005, the ambassador was the Nigerian High Commissioner to the Republic of South Africa, the Kingdoms of Lesotho and Swaziland. The commissioner is a banker.

Oba Adetona, the Ogbagba II, who is known for recognising excellence among his subjects, left no one in doubt that he is happy with the achievements of the brothers.

The brothers do not seem to care about their political affiliations.

The ambassador is in the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) government of President Goodluck Jonathan; the commissioner is serving in the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) government of Governor Ibikunle Amosun in Ogun State.

To make the day memorable was a standby local band, Masterpiece Entertainment, led by Seun Bankole. The band thrilled guests with sonorous songs.

Five years earlier, the brothers were honoured at the same palace amid fanfare by the monarch who conferred chieftaincy titles on them. While the ambassador was made Otunba Tolumogboye

Brothers united in service, honour of Ijebuland, the commissioner became with Otunba Adetona Fusigboye of Ijebuland.

To felicitate with the Ashirus were the Ajalorun of Ijebu–Ife, Oba Afolorunsho Oguntayo; the Saderiren of Isonyin–Ijebu, Oba Funso Omo–Ogunkoya; the Ebumawe of Ago–Iwoye, Oba Abdulrazaq Adenugba; the Alaporu of Ilaporu, Oba Jimoh Quadri; the Limeri of Awa, Oba Abib Awobajo; Oba Safi Sule of Odesenlu; Liken of Ibefun, Oba Gideon Adetoye; Lamodi of Isiwo–Ijebu, Oba Adedoyin Salisu, who is also an engineer, the Olisa of Ijebu–Ode, Chief Thomas Adebayo Adekoya and Olori Kemi Adetona.

Others included Chief Razak Okoya and his wife, Shade; Bishop Afolabi Odufuwa; Senator Biyi Durojaiye; Senator Lekan Mustapha; Prof Abiodun Adesanya (SAN); Mr Tunji Ayanlaja (SAN); former National Democratic Coalition (NADECO) chieftain, Chief Ayo Adebanjo; Commissioner for Education, Segun Odubela, his counterpart in Information and Strategy, Alhaji Yusuph Olaniyonu; former Finance Commissioner. Mr Lekan Bello; former Health Commissioner, Dr Biodun Oduwole; Publisher/Editor–in-Chief, City People ; Mr Seye Kehinde; Mr Segun

Awolowo; Mr Jimi Agbaje; Otunba Fassy Yusuf, his wife, Princess Iyabo and Mr Gbenga Kuku.

Bishop Odufuwa, who led the people to sing praises to God for the Ashirus, Ijebuland and the Awujale, prayed for the actualisation of Ijebu State.

The Bishop committed the Ashirus to God, praying for Oba Adetona’s long life and good health.

“They have been appointed into places of authority. They shall be successful in whatever they put their hands on in government. We are sending you to Abuja and you shall succeed. And to our Kabiyesi, peace will continue to reign in Ijebuland in your time and we will have our own Ijebu State,” he prayed.

Oba Adetona also prayed for the brothers’ success.

He advised them to remember that political appointments or national assignments are transient; they should use their positions to serve the country and the people patriotically.

If they do this, he noted, they would have proven themselves as good ambassadors of not only Ijebu and Ogun State, but also Nigeria.

“You should see your appointment as a

temporary thing. So, you must lead by example and deliver what is expected of you. You should not only be good ambassadors of Ijebu nation, but also of Ogun State and the entire Nigeria,” Oba Adetona advised.

Responding, the commissioner, thanked Oba Adetona and Ijebu people for honouring them. He said they would continue to lift Ijebuland and the country through public service.

“We are highly elated. I have to thank the Almighty God for making the country, the state and our community to identify with us. It is not by our power, but by the power of the Almighty God who can put one at the right place at the right time.

“It was exactly five years ago, in this same palace, that we were honoured; three of my bothers with my humble self making four. And today, we are being honoured again. So, I’m thanking God for identifying the Ashiru family. And I’m sure that wherever the old man is with the Lord, he would be happy that God has done it for him.

“The only collateral I’m taking to this government is my integrity. And by the Grace of God, I will come back home with it intact. I’m going to impact on the people, on employment generation, create industries that would bring job to the people of Ogun State. I want my name to be written in gold when I leave. Watch Ogun State, it is a ‘volcano’ that is going to erupt economically very soon.

“His Excellency has taken his time to pick the technocrats, who can impact positively on governance and on the people.

And with God on our side and the support of the people, we will turn Ogun State around for good,” he said.

•More pictures on page 30

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THE NATION FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2011

SOCIETY

•Ogun State Deputy Governor Segun Adesegun and his wife, Oluwafunmilayo

•Oba Sule (right) and Senator Durojaiye

•Justice Oguntade (rtd) (left) and Oba Adetona

•Oba Munirudeen Bashorun (right) and Otunba Joseph Shonibare

•Ms Shola Haastrup (left) and Olori Adetona

•Oba Yinusa Adekoya (left) and Chief Adebanjo

•Senator Mustafa (left) and Oba Awobajo

•Oba Adetoye (left) and Oba Adenugba

•Chief Yusuf and his wife Princess Iyabo

•Prof Adesanya (SAN), left and Oba Raufu Raji-Suleiman

PHOTOS: DAVID ADEJO

THE NATION FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2011

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SOCIETY

The wedding between Toluwalope, daughter of Tom and Associates chief, Abiodun Toki, and her beau, Temitope Jegede, was held at the Events Warehouse, Ilupeju, Lagos. The reception followed immediately at the same venue. NNEKA NWANERI was there.

•Bride’s parents Mr and Mrs Abiodun Toki

•The couple Temitope and Toluwalope

•Groom’s parents Mrs Cecilia and Abiodun Jegede

A new life begins B

EAUTY, elegance, and fashion all combined on Saturday, December 17, in Lagos to make the wedding of Toluwalope, daughter of the Chairman of Tom and Associates, Abiodun Toki, memorable.

Everything about the event had a touch of class and it showed from the gates of the hall.

Outside were various exotic cars brought by men and women of style who graced the event.

They were mostly clad in native dresses of pink and ash; the colours of the day, while the bride’s and groom’s kinsmen wore uniformed attires.

The tables in the hall were well decorated with feather-like flowers, with the chairs’ and tables’ overlays depicting the glamour and colour of the day. The hall was filled to capacity such that additional tables and chairs were hurriedly arranged outside the hall.

The Pastor in charge of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) Area 01, Oluyinka Gbajabiamila, officiated the union.

After joining the couple, the cleric took the bible reading from Gen 2:23-25, which he used for his sermon entitled: One Flesh, One Spirit, One God. He said since they are in the season of new things, and have begun a journey of an everlasting testimony of love, they should wear the garment of a meek and kind spirit, which is of the inner beauty God expects them to show in their action, speech and dressing.

“Look at the examples your parents have laid for you. Make as your quintessential example the bonding of the father, son and Holy Spirit. If these three can be one in Heaven, God has commanded you today to have one spirit, one flesh and one blood,” he said.

The groom wore a black suit and ash-coloured blazers. The bride shone in her white wedding gown. They both beamed with smiles as they danced, each trying hard to out dance the other, on their way to the podium where a mini tent, decorated in white and ash, stood to welcome them.

Comedian First Born was the Master of Ceremony (MC) and he dished out funny ribcracking jokes to the delight of guests.

The Chairman on the occasion and former Secretary to Ogun State Government, Otunba Gbenga Onakoya, expressed his delight at the day, which coincided with his 28th wedding anniversary. He called out his wife, Benedicta, and kissed her.

He encouraged the groom to have patience and perseverance in his dealings with his wife.

The couple later cut their pink and white threetier cake at the spelling of JESUS. Dr Kayode Bamgbola, who gave the toast, recalled that since 2008 when he knew Tolu, he has never seen her without her charming smile.

The groom, who was full of praises to the Almighty, eulogised his late sister who saw him through his education. The Political Science graduate of Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU) described his wife as a paragon of beauty. He told The Nation about the eight-week assignment given to him by his father-in-law.

“It was like a reality show with a series of interviews. I go to his office like every other week and we talked about so many issues of life. He wanted to know me and how intelligent I am and I’m sure I surprised him. The interaction was very instructive for me. I learnt a lot. He is a great man and asked some very sensitive questions on how to project plans for his daughter. It was a good experience,” he noted.

He continued: “I’m very excited and actually short of words. I’m so fulfilled and I know I have found a good thing. It’s been a very wonderful experience and I’m looking forward to a very wonderful life with her. We met through my very good friend, Deola. She mentioned her name to me, I added her to my friends on Facebook. We got chatting and became friends and here we are today. I chose her because she is a very wonderful lady with a kind heart, trustworthy and faithful and very beautiful. So, luckily for me, God gave me the go ahead.”

He assured his wife: “Welcome Tolu, into my life. I know we will do a lot together and I’m going to be the best husband ever. Thank you for loving me.”

•Otunba Adegbemi Onakoya (left) and Mr Tunji Oyebanji

•From left: Pastors Dapo Aluhosun, Gbajabiamila and Olajuwon Olaleye PHOTOS: ADEJO DAVID

Responding, the bride said: “We met through a mutual friend via Facebook and I have since known him to be funny and extremely caring. He’s romantic and expressive. I am the calmer version of that.”

Mr Toki, who influenced his daughter to abandon the banking sector and join him in the family business as an executive director, said: “I wouldn’t have chosen a husband for my daughter,

but when she introduced him to me as her fiancée and as tradition demands, I had to have an interaction of over two-month with him. He visited my office every Wednesday for eight weeks before I could talk to him on whether he could marry my daughter or not. He is a very handsome man, cool-headed and intelligent. He didn’t miss any of the Wednesdays in the two months.”

THE NATION FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2011

32

A cocktail for women in business

It was a gathering of women in business. The occasion was a cocktail to honour the visiting International Finance Corporation Deputy Chief Executive Officer and General Counsel, Mrs Rachel Robins. Venue was the Wheat Baker Hotel, Ikoyi, Lagos. TONIA ‘DIYAN was there.

T

HEIR assembly was not for chatting or engaging in petty talks. They were, indeed, serious-minded women in business and management. They, however, chose a relaxed atmosphere and the visit of one of them at the International Finance Corporation (IFC), who is the Deputy Chief Executive Officer and General Counsel, Mrs Rachel Robins, to discuss germane issues of business. Not only this, they sought to build strategic business relationships with IFC, with a long-term focus on developing the Nigerian economy.

The event, which held at Wheat Baker Hotel in Ikoyi, Lagos drew women from far and wide.

Participants represented various commercial sectors who gathered to discuss challenges and explore opportunities that support women empowerment agenda.

The entrepreneurs in attendance were clients of Access and Diamond Banks, as well as women professionals supported by Women in Management and Business( WIMBIZ).

They included the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Standard Chartered Bank Plc, Mrs Bola Adesola; Deputy Country Representative/DMD, Deutsche Bank, Mrs Adeola Azeez; Vice-President & General Counsel, IFC Mrs. Rachel Robbins; Managing Partner, Norfolk Partners, Mrs May Mbu; Country Manager IFC, Mr Solomon Adegbie-Quaynor; Founder/CEO, the Chair Centre Group, Mrs Ibukun Awosika; MD/CEO Main One Cable, Nigeria, Mrs Funke Opeke, and many other prominent business men and women.

The IFC is a member of the World Bank Group, and in partnership with Women in Management and Business, the gathering which was in form of a seminar was to encourage entrepreneurship and business success among women.

WIMBIZ chairperson, Mrs Adeola Azeez, in her speech, said the aim of the seminar was to motivate, inspire, challenge and provoke women to reach their potential in their chosen professions and at home.

She also said the vision of WIMBIZ was “to equip ourselves as women to be productive in our work so that we can contribute more in every aspect of the society from business to boardrooms, to politics, and in Nigerian homes.” According to her, female entrepreneurs in Nigeria are often underestimated and overlooked. “Cultural barriers can hinder busi-

•From left: Robbins, Mrs Azeez, Mrs Adesola and Mrs Awosika

ness development, relationships, and access to finance,” she said.

The IFC through its Women in Business Program and with its partners, she said, has sought to encourage programmes that are targeted at helping women develop businesses and get better services from Nigerian financial institutions.

Robbins, in her contribution, said: “Supporting businesses owned or managed by women is a high priority for IFC”. IFC, she noted, uses “innovative investments and advisory services programs to reach women entrepreneurs, who are an under served, but key segment of the SME market.”

IFC Country Manager, Solomon AdegbieQuaynor, said: “IFC has a track record in Nigeria for helping women in business with partners like Access Bank, which was a global pioneer in using IFC Advisory Services to enhance its support to women entrepreneurs through

better, targeted products.”

He also said: “Today, IFC is working with Diamond Bank to expand such programmes that help women entrepreneurs further develop their enterprises.”

IFC, a member of the World Bank Group, is the largest global development institution focused exclusively on the private sector. The body helps developing countries achieve sustainable growth by financing investment, providing advisory services to businesses and governments.

They also mobilise capital in the international financial markets. They help their clients create jobs, strengthen environmental performance, and contribute to their local communities. While its partner WIMBIZ is a Nigeria-based nonprofit networking group designed to assist women entrepreneurs and professionals.

Formed in 2001 by 14 individuals (13 women and one man), WIMBIZ has a vision to assist women in management and business.

•Dr Nasu Lawson

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) Staff Quarters was agog when Eunice Folakemi, wife of former Punch man Ola Ogundolapo turned 50, OSAS ROBERT reports.

‘We are one’ F

OR the Ogundolapos, it was an opportunity to renew their love for each other. It was at the 50th birthday of Mrs Eunince Folakemi Ogundolapo, whose husband, Ola, spoke glowingly of at the event.

Ola Ogundolapo, a former Features Editor with The Punch newspaper, is now the Deputy General Manager, Public Affairs, Port Harcourt International Airport.

Taking a cool look at his wife, Ogundolapo said: "People call their wives better halves, but we are just one. She has been wonderful to me for more than 26 years that we have been married and it's like everyday the love grows deeper and deeper. I thank God that I have a wife who I can call my sister, my mother, my confidant and my friend. She makes sure that I don't lack anything, whether love or affection or words of advice and even words of wisdom."

It was, however, not just talk, talk and talk.

The birthday celebration took off with a prayer at the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Love Assembly, Agege, Lagos. Fola, as the celebrator is fondly called by friends, shone like a polished jewel. Her friends and well-wishers complemented her; they were gorgeous in their attires.

Fanciful canopies stood on the lawns of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) Staff Quarters, Ikeja, Lagos, venue of the reception. Guests sat comfortably on the wellarranged chairs and tables.

A Disc Jockey (DJ) was on hand, dishing out

melodious Fuji, Juju and Gospel tunes, while the aroma of barbecue being prepared at the back of the building wafted in the air.

Waiters and waitresses made trips from serving points strategically placed around the lawn, with trays in their hands, to the guests.

A mother of four boys, Mrs Ogundolapo looked younger than 50.

Fola was dressed in a beautiful Iro and Buba with gold headgear, complete with gold choker necklace and earrings. She later changed into a flowing gold gown. She was all smiles as she hugged and welcomed guests.

A friend of the celebrator, Mrs Lola Oluwaseyi, who said the opening prayer, prayed for God’s blessings for her.

Guests and friends clustered around her as she came out of the house with her husband to dance.

Gifts and money were showered on her. She was later surrounded by her husband, children, colleagues and friends to cut her birthday cake.

Some of her friends described her as a “wonderful woman and a mother who can be relied upon.”

The Akogun Agbekoya of Yorubaland, Adekunle Oshodi, prayed that God should strengthen her and give her prosperity. “My prayer for her is that she will live to reap the fruits of her labour,” he said.

President, Klassic Club of Ikere-Ekiti, Wale Oluwaseyi, said it is a thing of joy to celebrate a golden jubilee. He described her as a peaceful and caring woman who relates with everybody

•The celebrator (third from left) flanked by her husband, Ogundolapo and her children: Olayiwola, Boluwatife and Oluwaseun

well.

An editor with Aviation Line magazine, Mr Adebayo Foluso, described her as “caring and accommodating”.

Her first son, Ola (Jnr), said he is happy to have her as mother. “There is nothing I ask from her that she doesn’t give me. She doesn’t discourage you, no matter what you want to do. I’m happy that I came through her. She has never beaten me for once, but she has her own way of disciplin-

ing us, which I think is the best. I really love her so much and wish I can get a wife just like her.”

The last child, Seun, also described his mother as wonderful. The boy, who said he has not seen any girl like his mother, said: “My mum is just wonderful, that’s the best way I can describe her. So many times she has been there for all her children. I want to marry someone like my mum and by saying that I know what I have seen in her. She’s a woman of virtue and I wish I can pray for eternal life for her.”

THE NATION FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2011

33

SOCIETY

•The celebrator Mrs Ogundipe-Oloyinbo flanked by Mrs Funke Ilori (left) and Esther Igbekele

•Hon Adejare

•Rev Awolade

Friends, colleagues and family members trooped to the Officers’ Mess of the Sam Ethnan Air Force Base, Ikeja, to celebrate the 50th birthday of Deaconess Folawiyo Abosede Ogundipe-Oloyinbo.

AHMED YEKINI was there.

T

HE celebration began with a one-hour anniversary service conducted by the Glorious Place Parish of the Foursquare Gospel Church, Ipaja Road, opposite Lagos NYSC Camp.

Inspired by spirit-filled praise and worship, Rev Lawrence Awolade, delivered a moving sermon anchored on Psalm 90, with particular reference to verses 10 to 14.

Entitled: “Numbering our days, and applying our hearts to wisdom,” the sermon was accompanied by popular and moving hymns and Bible reading.

Rev Awolade exhorted the congregation to always have eternity in view in all their actions. Even before the reception kicked off, the pastor testified to the celebrator’s virtues of kindheartedness, commitment to principles and unquenchable love for God’s work.

The reception was chaired Chief E.A. Akinbolade, former Lagos

•Members of staff of Enterprise Bank

Golden birthday of a virtuous woman

State Commissioner for Establishment and Training. Among the important dignitaries who graced the occasion, were state and federal lawmakers led by Hon Babatunde Adejare; top journalists, lawyers, medical practitioners, bankers and clerics.

The highpoint of the celebration were the testimonies about the celebrator. While some spoke about her exemplary family life and a spirit full of love and giving, many others described her as dogged, hardworking, honest and benevo-

lent. Through it all, the celebrator sat transfixed as one after the other guests took turn to shower encomiums on her.

Remarkably, among the speakers were some of the customers of Enterprise Bank, where the celebrator is a branch manager, who declared that the celebrator’s integrity and honesty prompted them to put their money in that bank.

Deaconess Ogundipe-Oloyinbo, a holder of B.Sc in Business Ad-

HOLY MATRIMONY

ministration from the University of Lagos and an M.Sc in Business Management graduate from the Ekiti State University, Ado Ekiti, has had over 22 years of experience in banking. She began her banking career at Owena Bank in 1989 and is now with Enterprise Bank.

The celebration ended about four hours after it started on the same brilliant note with which it started, with special songs rendered by the band, young soloists, and masterful rendition of traditional poetry called ewi in Yoruba.

•Mr Dele Olaolu

UNION OF LOVEBIRDS

A member of staff, The Nation Sporting Life Rasaq Oboirien and his wife former Miss Lateefa Amuda during their wedding in Lagos

•From left: Dr Yemi Agbelusi, Chief Abraham Olusegun, the couple Mr and Mrs Shokunbi, Mrs Abraham and Pastor Timi Agbelusi

THE NATION FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2011

34

SOCIETY PRESENTATION OF A BOOK WRITTEN BY MD/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF NATIONAL MIRROR NEWSPAPERS MR STEVE AYORINDE

•Osun State Deputy Governor, Chief Titi Laoye-Tomori flanked by Vice Chancellor, University of Ibadan, Prof Isaac Adewole (left) and the author, Mr Steve Ayorinde

•From left: Former Oyo State Governor Dr Victor Olunloyo; Chief Tayo Akpata and Baale of Ekotedo of Ibadanland, Elder Taiye Ayorinde.

•Chief Rasheed Gbadamosi and Prof Bolanle Awe

•Ambassador Segun Olusola and Chief Olabisi Akpata whose 81st birthday was celebrated at the book lunch

•Dr Yele Akinrolabu

•Book reviewer Prof Remi Raji-Oyelade

•From left: Dr Orhii; Mrs Obiazikwor and Abubakar Jimoh

•From left: Executive Director, ZMC Mr Mike Dada; Edo State Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Mr Louis Odion; Managing Director, Marketing Mix, Mr Akin Adeoya and Editor, National Mirror, Mr Seyi Fasugba

•Former Vice Chancellor, Obafemi Awolowo University, Prof Adeniyi Osuntogun (left) and Director, Institute of African Studies, University of Ibadan Prof Olawale Albert

THE NATION FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2011

35

SOCIETY Adebimpe Subuola, daughter of Chief Adisa Bada-Olicks and Ayoyinka Bolade, son of the late Mr Babalola Fatogbe, got married in Lagos on December 17. SEYI ODEWALE reports.

Woman of his dream

A

S they looked into each other’s eyes, they broke into smiles. It was a smile of joy and satisfaction. Members of the audience also smiled with them because it was their day of joy. With those smiles Babalola and Adebimpe Fatogbe started their lives together as one. The duo were joined in holy matrimony at the African Bethlehem Cathedral Church in Ebute-Metta, Lagos. It was a wedding all those present tagged a mere formality as the couple appeared to have been married for long. It could well have been so.

They got to know each other well during their courtship.

The service took off with the processional hymn entitled: Great is thy faithfulness, which ushered in the bride, accompanied by her father and the bridal train. The groom had entered earlier with his men.

Decked in a flowing white wedding gown, sewn to fit and accentuating her beauty, Adebimpe was cool and relaxed, smiling intermittently. On her train were friends in fitted mini-gowns that made some men to stretch their necks to catch a glimpse of them.

The groom’s men too made a fashion statement, they looked splendid in their grey suits and orange •The couple Ayo and Adebimpe ties that made the colours of the day.

With the marital vows done with, guests proceeded to the Panda Event Centre on Commercial Avenue, Sabo, Yaba, Lagos, for the wedding reception.

The event took off at 1:35pm and guests had no difficulty locating venue. At the entrance of the hall were private security men, who mounted sentry. They ensured that those without invitation cards were not allowed in.

The inside of the two-storey hall was enthralling. The expansive hall, big enough to sit about 200 guests, was exquisitely decorated.

It bore white and orange colours.

Its furniture too were well arranged and draped in white and patterned golden damask fabric.

With the master of ceremonies (MC) taking the stage, everyone •Mrs Adebola Fatogbe (left) and Mrs knew that the event was starting in earnest. On the band stand was the ‘Executives’ dishing out melodious tunes to the delight of the guests.

The MC, after an opening prayer by the wife of Ekiti State Commissioner for Works, Mrs Adebayo, introduced Chief Ebenezer Olubukola as the chairman of the occasion and he was subsequently ushered to the high table. The chairman was later joined by the couple’s parents, Chief and Mrs Adisa Bada-Olicks and Deaconess Odunayo Fatogbe. Ekiti State Commissioner for Works, Mr Sola Adebayo and his wife later joined the chairman on the high table.

Shortly after, the couple was ushered into the hall with melodious tunes of the popular R&B •Mrs Bisi Ikeazor and Kayode Alufa crooner, D-Banj. They danced as if they were in a competition. danced his heart out. After this The chairman urged the couple was couple’s dance where friends to do everything to make the and well-wishers came out to femarriage work. According to licitate with them and presented him, their marriage has just bethem with gifts which were digun. rected to the gifts’ corner.

The high point of the ceremony Guests were treated to nice cuiwas the cutting of the cake. The sine and assorted drinks that did cake, which bore the cream and not leave out anyone. orange colours, was a delight to The groom could not hide his behold by all. This was followed joy as he expressed how happy he by father and daughter’s dance, was. According to him, there could where Chief Bada-Olicks almost

•Bride’s parents Chief and Mrs Bada-Olicks

•Groom’s mother, Mrs Racheal Fatogbe and Toluwase Fatogbe representing groom’s father

•Mr and Mrs Sola Adebayo

Bukola Omidigi

•Prince Kolawole Odedina (left) and Primate Onadotun Onanga

not have been an alternative to Adebimpe. “I love her so much that I could not have settled for any other woman. She is all I desire,” he said.

Adebimpe, who flew in from the United Kingdom, where she is based, radiated happiness throughout the reception. “He has all the qualities I want in a man. He is loving, caring and kind,” she explained.

•Mrs Bamidele Abiodun (left) and Funmi Lare Phillips PHOTOS: ABIODUN WILLIAM

36

THE NATION FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2011

COMMENTARY

FEMI ABBAS ON

M

OTHER earth can be described as man’s inseparable companion. She accompanies man day and night, in life and in death. She surpasses biological mothers in playing her role in the life of man. From a chip of her natural being, man is said to have been created. The Qur’an tells us that “From her (the earth) We created you and into We shall return you”.

In playing the role of a mother, the earth carries man on her back while the latter remains alive and in death, she incubates him in her belly in readiness for the resurrection that will see him through the inevitable Day of Judgment.

In that process, there is a similarity between the duties of a primary mother (the earth) and that of a secondary mother otherwise known as biological mother. While the biological mother cares for man only when she and man are alive, the mother earth cares for him both in life and in death. Unlike that of the biological mother, the life span of the mother earth is indefinite.

Some scientists have given us different ages of the earth using all sorts of technological instruments. But the only authentic say on that can only come from the Almighty Allah Who created the earth. If scientists have the means of telling us the age of the earth, do they also have the means of determining her life span? The earth is not just a carrier of unlimited weight; she is also a scale of unlimited measure. She weighs the load on her head as well as the one in her belly and balances them up for natural equanimity.

Without the earth, mountains and oceans would have no habitat to call their own and the long term fossils which turn into what we call minerals would have had nowhere to hibernate.

Before all these and millions of other unidentified matters came into existence, the earth had been. And when all of them might have vanished into permanent oblivion, according to their scheduled time, the earth will continue to be until Allah’s scheduled time for her termination comes.

We know that man was created from the earth. We know that the earth harbours all living and non-living things on and in her. What we do not know is the source of the earth in creation. From what was the earth created? In luring us to reasoning, Allah has severally called the attention of man to the nature of certain creatures like the mountains, the valleys, the oceans and the seas, the minerals and the human and animal fossils buried in the earth as well as the varieties of plants and insects which dot the earth like a galaxy of stars on the Milky Way. He has also challenged man to observe the very nature of the wonderful carpet called the earth.

All these are to enable man know that all things except the grace of Allah will perish. And Allah confirms severally that a record is being kept for everything which will eventually be opened as a means of reassessing the existence and otherwise of all things on earth.

Any Muslim who has performed Hajj with full consciousness of piety will understand the gravity of this mysterious scenario. We came into the world naked. We brought nothing into it except the placenta. And, as soon as we settle down as babies on the laps of our biological mothers, we forget about the sojourn that brought us into this ephemeral transit called the world. No one remembers again how he or she travels down to the world. No one can describe features of the womb through which he or came into the world. Even the real purpose of our mission in the world becomes lost on us until we are taken through a new earthly tutorial that makes us what we grow up to be. At least, no book or document has shown the role of anybody’s placenta in the journey of life. And could that natural luggage have been in vain?

Placenta in the life of man is just a symbol of vanity which life represents.

A sincere pilgrim prepares for Hajj as if he is preparing for death. His journey for that mission is unpredictable. No

Femabbas@yahoo.com 08051101861

Muslim funeral

‘

Grave is the final abode of man. All the mansions and castles built in cities and towns are a mere vanity which will eventually crumble into dust. Thus, whoever expects death should know that grave is inevitable. In there, there are neither kings nor Presidents. And there is no difference between masters and servants. Everybody lies helplessly in anticipation of resurrection and judgment

one knows for sure who will return from the journey and who will not. That is why an intending Muslim pilgrim makes all necessary provisions for his family and leaves vital instructions or advice behind. It is a way of saying “in case I do not return from this journey, these are the steps to follow in my absence as a way of keeping life going”.

At the end of every Salat in both Sanctuaries of Makkah and Madinah, especially during Hajj, there is a funeral prayer (Janazah) which confirms that people die in virtually every minute of life. Those who die between Dhuhr and ‘Asr prayers might not necessarily be patients in the hospitals. Some die while observing Salat. Some die while eating.

Some die in toilets. Some die while talking. Some die in the market with their purchases in their hands even as the wristwatches on their hands keep working. Death in such circumstances is a matter of destiny rather than ill health.

It is only in our own part of the world that death is expected to be caused by ill health lamented endlessly. That is why an Arab poet crafted a stanza to remind man that death could strike at any time by any means. This is how he puts it: “Whoever does not die of sword may die of anything else; There are many ways of dying but death itself is only one”.

Just as no man can remember to ask about his placenta after settling down in life so can no dead person remember to ask about his luggage or his money after death. As a matter of fact, no dead person knows that he or she has left the shores of this world. Death is like a dream. You move from one spot to another as if you are alive. You interact with people, at times dining and wining with them and at other times rejoicing or grieving with them without knowing that you are already dead.

After death has struck down a Muslim, the first duty of other Muslims is to clean his body and wrap it up for burial.

Then, the funeral service (Salatul Janazah) is performed congregationally and this is followed by burial. Men are to wash the body of a deceased male.

Women are to wash the body of a deceased female. In Islam, the closest people are expected to wash the body of the deceased. But where such deceased had indicated should carry out that function, no other person should do it.

‘

A husband may wash the body of his wife if there are no qualified women around to do it. Same can be done by a wife for her deceased husband for the same reason. Mature children can wash the body of their parents but the rule is that of male to male and female to female. It is only in the absence of close relatives that outsiders are allowed to carry out this duty or where his will indicates so. There are no professional undertakers in Islam.

The burial of a Muslim body within hours of death is in accordance with the Prophetic tradition (Sunnah). Muslim bodies are quickly buried for three important reasons: One is to prevent it from decomposing. Another is to minimise the grief which it may bring to its relatives and the third is to let people know that life continues despite the death of anybody. After all, death is as normal in the life of a Muslim as birth of a new baby.

It is for the same reasons mentioned above that Muslims are advised to create their own cemeteries and not bury their deceased fellows inside houses or in cemeteries meant for adherents of other religions or around the compound. The dead is not expected to take over the abode of the living just as the living is prohibited from seeking an abode in a cemetery. Both the living and the dead have their pattern of space occupation which cannot be interchanged.

Cemetery in Islam is as important as community settlement. Physically, the deceased cannot act in congregation as the living. But within the colony of their cemetery, spiritual interaction is quite possible. This does not however, have any statutory basis in Islam. Once a soul has departed from the body reunion of souls and body is only possible on two occasions. One is the period of transit (Barzakh), when the deceased is interrogated by two designated Angels (Munkar and Nakir). The other is the Day of Judgement when all souls will rejoin their bodies for the purpose of rendering account.

Another important role of the living Muslims is to take care of the cemeteries in which their departed fellows are buried. No cemetery should be allowed to grow bushy or be left un-kept. The environments of those buried in the cemeteries deserve as much care as when they were alive. And the living

should always remember that sooner or later, they will join those in the belly of the earth.

Muslim cemetery should be like a settlement of equal beings where no traces of segregation can be found. Such a cemetery should be kept tidy by the living and protected against any possible invasion or destruction. A non-Muslim should not be assigned or employed to watch over a Muslim cemetery. The cemetery should be weeded and even swept from time to time if possible.

Every Muslim community or group should have a cemetery. And the maintenance of a Muslim cemetery should be the responsibility of every member of the community. No funeral ritual bath or funeral service (Janazah) should be performed at the cemetery. It is desirable to plant trees in the cemetery either for the purpose of protecting it against erosion and sand storm or for making it cool and serene.

It is preferred that a Muslim be buried where he or she died, and not be transported to another location or country which may cause delay or require an embalmment for the body. The deceased is laid in the grave without a coffin (if permitted by local law) on his or her right side, facing the Kaábah in Makkah. At the gravesite, erection of tombstone tombstones as well as elaborate markers or flowers or other decorative is discouraged. Rather, one should humbly remember Allah and His mercy, and pray for the deceased.

While all members of the community attend the funeral prayers, only the men of the community accompany the body to the gravesite. The relatives of the deceased may observe a three-day mourning period. Mourning is observed in Islam by increased devotion, receiving visitors and condolences, and avoiding decorative clothing and jewellery. Widows observe an extended mourning period (iddah) of 4 months and 10 days in accordance with Qur’an 2:234. During this period, she is neither to remarry nor move out of her home, nor wear decorative clothing and jewellery until the iddah period is over. Observing the eighth day or 40th day after burying the deceased is an act of extravagancy which Allah prohibits.

When one dies, everything in this earthly life is left behind, and there are no more opportunities to perform any acts of righteousness and faith. Prophet Muhammad once said there are three things, however, which may continue to benefit a person after death: charity given during life which continues to help others, knowledge from which people continue to benefit, and a righteous child who prays for his or her deceased parents regularly.

Grave is the final abode of man. All the mansions and castles built in cities and towns are a mere vanity which will eventually crumble into dust. Thus, whoever expects death should know that grave is inevitable. In there, there are neither kings nor Presidents. And there is no difference between masters and servants. Everybody lies helplessly in anticipation of resurrection and judgment.

Life is a transit. There is a time to be conceived in the mother’s womb. There is a time to be born into the world. There is a time to grow up and become a man or a woman. There is a time work and earn a living. There is a time to marry and bear children. There is a time to rejoice over the pleasantries of life. There is a time to grieve over certain calamities or tribulations. There is a time to be strong. There is a time to be weak. And finally, there is a time to die. No time can be substituted for another. In all these, the earth has a role to play. Her role cannot be denied. And when the time comes, we shall all be assembled in the presence of the Almighty Allah and give the account of our sojourn on earth. And, based on such account, each person shall take his final abode in paradise or hell. Thus, death is like visa which authorises the right of entrance into Paradise or of preventing it. You can choose the one you want. The criteria are there.

THE NATION

38

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2011

CRIME WATCH

‘How to resolve Lagos market crisis’

By Jude Isiguzo and Eric Ikhale

•Ringim

E

MBATTLED President of the crisisridden Aguiyi Ironsi Market Traders’ Association, Ladipo, Lagos, Jonathan Chibuzo Okoli has suggested how peace can be restored to the market.

Okoli said the problem arose from an alleged attempt by a group within the market, led by one Ajibade to forcibly change the association’s leadership without recourse to due process.

Denying allegation that he was plotting to perpetuate himself in office, Okoli, who said he was a law-abiding individual, explained that elections into the various positions of the association’s leadership were stalled by a suit instituted by the belligerent group.

Okoli said peace could only be restored if the Ajibade group respects the agreement upon which traders invested heavily in the development of the market. He denied allegation that he was buying up shops with the aim of taking over the market.

He also denied that his visit to the market on Friday last week was to foment trouble, insisting that he only visited the market having been cleared of all allegations by the police authorities in Abuja. He accused the opposing group of vandalising his shops and allegedly stealing about N5m made from the day’s sales.

“The major problem in this country is the reign of arbitrariness. People do strange things and get away with them. That is why the lawlessness being visited on the innocent traders in our market is sustained because the culprits have compromised the necessary institutions.

“I have been away from this country for sometime. I left in 1991. I returned in 2001.

Though they claim I am not educated, I

believe I know my right from my left. I invested in the market. I have a building there. I also have shops in other buildings in the market.

“We invested heavily in the development of the market. There are documents to support this claim. We never dealt with him while signing all these agreements. It was his father, Hassan Olajokun, the owner of Paramount Development Ventures that we entered into agreement with.

“The Lagos State Government leased the land to Paramount Development Ventures.

“Because the company could not develop it, it leased the land to Igbo traders who, under an agreement, were made to pay N150,000 per shop space as allocation fee to Paramount Development Ventures and later developed same by themselves.

“Having developed, you were, under the agreement, entitled to own the shop for 12 years after which you pay the prevailing local government rate. For anyone to claim I want to take over the market is ridiculous.

That is impossible. Of course, as a businessman, you can’t stop me from investing wherever I see the opportunity.

“Ajibade’s intention is to take over the market and run it as his private entity. That can never be possible. They should respect the agreement we had with Paramount Development Ventures and not with anybody else. Not even the father, because the company has its identity as a registered entity.

“They just want to take over the market at all costs. They see me as a threat and are adopting all tactics known to them. One would have expected them to await the completion of the case in court.

On June 18 this year, some gunmen shot at me, killed people and damaged my vehicle.

My car is still at Olosan Police Station till date. I was even accused later of illegal possession of guns. But despite their attempts to have me detained perpetually, the

Magistrate before whom I was taken granted me bail.

“They took me to the State Security Service (SSS), where they accused me of gun-running and other offences. They also took me to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) where they alleged I embezzled some money.

“But in that case of EFCC, I told them that I didn’t embezzle any money, because the levy I collected from the traders was remitted to the local government. I collected over N12m from the traders between 2009 and 2010 and they were all remitted to the local government.

“While in the EFCC, I challenged them to get local government officials that collected money from me to account for the money collected. But I also have to state emphatically that I am not planning to remain a president for life at that market.

“I have told my opponents several times that we can conduct an election in the market when they withdraw all the suits in court against me. I told them at the State Security Service and several other places that they have taken this matter too far; that I will conduct election when there are no more law suits against me.”

He denied allegation that he was frustrating moves to conduct elections, saying he was willing to relinquish the post if due process was adhered to. He called on his opponents to withdraw the case they filed against him as a prelude to the conduct of a free and fair election.

“The truth remains that I am still the President of the association. On the tenure issue, our constitution stipulates three years after which an incumbent can still re-contest.

I came into office in 2007. My first tenure ought to end in February, 2011.

“But in December 2010 during our end-ofthe-year party, I reminded members about the fact that our tenure was coming to an end and we would soon conduct election. I urged any member who intends to contest for any position to signify his/her intention.

“Surprisingly, rather than preparing for

Ajibade’s intention is to take over the market and run it as his private entity. That can never be possible. They should respect the agreement we had with Paramount Development Ventures and not with anybody else. Not even the father, because the company has its identity as a registered entity

election, some members went to court, forged our constitution and claimed that I have over-stayed in office and that the tenure of the association’s executive was now two years.

“I disagreed with them, insisting that if the constitution must be changed, it should be with the support and consent of the general house. I assured them of my intention to organise election the next year after spending three years.

“My plan for election was brought to the court’s attention. The court almost jailed me for contempt, querying why I should contemplate further steps in respect of any election when the case was already in court.

“In December last year, these same people misled the local government authorities to shut the market. I was in Japan when that happened. On my return to the country, and with the help of our lawyer, we got an injunction against Ajibade and the company he represents, Paramount Development Ventures, the local government and the caretaker committee he constituted to take over our responsibilities.

“The court said ‘you can’t do so because the case is before me.’ Since then, they have resorted to creating artificial crisis in the market,” he said.

A members of the caretaker committee purportedly constituted by the Mushin Local Government Authorities to manage the affairs of the market, Umohia, had accused Okoli, who he referred to as erstwhile president of the market association of refusing to relinquish power.

He said the crisis resulted from the decision of some members to query Okoli’s alleged resolve to intimidate traders in the market with frequent thugs and policemen.

“The president was elected in 2007 and his tenure was expected to expire by 2009. But in 2009, he amended the constitution in his favour and allowed himself to stay for another one year and after that he refused to conduct an election to allow a new president to emerge.

“But while this was on, we went through his record and we discovered that over N65m has been embezzled by his administration.

The said money was what he collected from traders for the local government and after the expiration of his tenure, it was discovered that this money was not remitted to the local government. The local government informed us that they only collected N1m.

“But after all this, our ex-president did not allow us to have any peace. He kept on harassing us with the thugs he recruited from various parts of the country to fight his cause for him.

“They attack us at will and they loot our shops. We made complaints of this to the local government but nothing meaningful has been done about it.

Guardian pays N20,000 for assaulting girl

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HE mother of Ifunanya Nwamba, the 12year-old girl who was allegedly assaulted by her guardian, Mrs Chigozie Godrick some months back, has requested that the accused pay her the sum of N20,000 as settlement as she no longer has the financial means to continue the prosecution of the case.

Mrs Ebere Nwamba made the plea when the case came up for hearing on November 21, 2011 after two previous adjournments. On this particular day, the case was again adjourned to February 6, 2012.

Godrick was accused of physically assaulting Ifunanya, her housemaid, sometime in May 2010, over an allegation that she did not wash her vehicle properly.

It was one of her teachers in school that saw the bruises on her body and brought the matter to the attention of the school authorities.

The school then wrote a petition to the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, demanding that the accused be brought to book for her alleged brutality of the young girl.

The petition reads: “The management of Adeniyi Jones Primary School hereby petitions the police command on the assault on one of our pupils Miss Ifunanya Nwamba, a 12-yearold girl who was brutalised by her guardian (Mrs Chigozie Godrick).

“The girl claimed to have been battered as a result of her failure to wash her (Mrs Chigozie Godrick’s) car to her satisfaction. This has been

By Jude Isiguzo

a re-occurring issue for the past two years.

About a year ago, her back was bruised and when the management asked her, she said it was caused by hot oil poured on her by the same guardian. She claimed she has been beating her with a pestle, hose, pipes and wood with nails.”

The school also wrote another petition to the executive chairman of the state’s Universal Basic Education Board at Maryland, the Social Welfare, and the Guidance and Counseling Unit School Services, through the education secretary of the local government education authority, who approved that the school proceeds with the case.

Mrs Godrick was subsequently arrested and the case was transferred to the Human Rights Department where she was arraigned on a twocount charge of alleged assault and causing grievous bodily harm.

However, Ifunanya’s poor mother who could no longer handle the expenses of traveling down to Lagos anytime the case is called up for hearing decided to settle out of court for a sum of N20,000.

It was gathered that following her plea, a probation Officer Mr Kelani Akeem Tolu was appointed to perfect the out-of-court settlement agreement, which was read on November 24.

According to the report, during the last court sitting, the biological mother of the plaintiff,

Ebere Nwamba reiterated that things have been difficult for her and the transport money with which she comes to Lagos was sent to her by the head teacher and the class teacher.”

Speaking to Newsextra, Mrs Nwamba said: “It has not been easy. I even borrowed money to come here this time. Inasmuch as I support justice, the delay and continuous adjournment is what I don’t like. I appeal to the Magistrate to consider my plight and speed up the trial.”

Mrs Nwamba said she depend on the meager income she makes from selling fruit to foot her bills.

She explained that her husband’s death worsened the matter for her family, even as she added that she can no longer continue with the case.

Nwamba said: “My late husband’s sister came and demanded that I should allow the girl go to the woman (Godrick) as a house help as they had promised to be responsible for her schooling up to the university level. It was a thing of joy at the initial stage but with what is happening to my daughter, no woman would want her child to live in continuous abuse.”

In view of the above report , (1) The biological mother has agreed to take her child back to Enugu State and also to enroll her into Government School for her to continue her education.( 2) Mrs Chigozie (the defendant) has promised to give Mrs Nwamba (the biological mother ) the sum of N10,000 for transport back to Enugu and subsequently an additional

•Ifunanya sum of N10,000 through her cousin.(3) Both parties have agreed that the matter should be struck out from the court and thereby bringing the matter to a close.

Newsextra learnt that following this agreement, the Chief Magistrate of Court 6, Ikeja, Mrs Oshiniyi, struck out the case on November 24.

THE NATION

39

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2011

Assembly passes vote of confidence on Speaker From Emma Mgbeahurike, Owerri

•Hon. Uwajumogu

M

EMBERS of the Imo State House of Assembly have unanimously passed a vote of confidence on the Speaker, Hon. Benjamin Chukwuemeka Uwajumogu for what they called his people-oriented, unbiased legislative leadership and also for synergy between the legislative and executive arms of government.

The Speaker was also commended for his ability and desire to transform the Imo State House of Assembly Complex from a dilapidated structure to a stateof-the-art structure.

The Speaker, according to a motion sponsored by Hon. Chief Sam Daddy Anyanwu (Ikeduru State Constituency) and Hon Simeon

Iwunze (Isiala-Mbano Constituency) was commended for exhibiting friendly disposition and father figure and also for giving the lawmakers a sense of belonging without recourse to political party affiliation.

Hon. Anyanwu said: “Since the inception of the 5th House of Assembly on June 7, 2011, the Hon Speaker, who was unanimously elected by members of the Assembly, has continued to exhibit uncommon, unequalled and unparalleled leadership.

“It is an acknowledged fact that this Assembly under the leadership of Mr. Speaker has aided in the presentation of 53 motions, out of which 33 have been passed into law. 35 bills were presented out of which six have been passed into law.”

Also speaking Hon. Simeon lwunze expressed his happiness in the manner the vibrant Speaker has been carrying along all the Hon members of the House.

Hon lwunze sid: “Since it is the desire of the present administration to celebrate heroes while they are alive, it is the view of the chief sponsors of this motion to celebrate the Hon Speaker and other colleagues.”

Continuing, Hon lwunze said: “Mr. Speaker has enthroned probity, transparency and accountability in the legislative functions of the State Assembly. Hence he has been vindicated as a role model of true democracy.”

Hon lwunze also disclosed that confirmation of appointments of Special Advisers, Commissioners, members of Boards and the Transition Committee chairmen by the House was not followed by any form of monetary inducement or gratification whatsoever.

Also in their reaction, the remaining 24 members of the Assembly passionately express their unflinching, heartfelt support for the ebullient Speaker.

In fact, one of the lawmakers and also a co-sponsor of the motion, Hon Stan Dara representing Orsu State Constituency, commended the Speaker for ensuring that the welfare of the members are guaranteed with the recent provision of 26 Toyota Prado-Jeeps to lawmakers after waiting for six months to be given official vehicles.

In another development, the 9man committee to investigate the missing N10.5b contract fund between May 2007 and May 2011

has been inaugurated.

While inaugurating the committee, the chairman and Deputy Speaker of the House promised that his committee would perform its assignment diligently. He therefore pleaded with other members of the committee to show enthusiasm and commitment in unearthing the truth about the missing N10.5b allegedly misappropriated between 2007 and 2011 through un-existing contracts.

Other members of the committee are Hon Ikechukwu Amuka , Hon Celestine Ngobiwu, Hon Mike Ndubuaku, Hon SamDaddy Anyanwu, Hon (Mrs) Adaku Ihuoma, Hon Emeka Nwofor, The Deputy Clerk of the House and Clerk of the Committee, Mr Ngozi Osuigwe, Hon Kingsley Dimaku, and Hon Chino Obioha.

Those to be invited to appear before the committee are the Commissioner for Finance between 2007 and 2011, Accountant-General of the state between 2007 and

Since it is the desire of the present administration to celebrate heroes while they are alive, it is the view of the chief sponsors of this motion to celebrate the Hon Speaker and other colleagues…Mr. Speaker has enthroned probity, transparency and accountability in the legislative functions of the State Assembly

2011, Auditor-General of the state between 2007 and 2011, current Commissioner for Finance, current Accountant-General of the state, current Auditor-General of the state, Special Adviser to the Executive Governor on Project Monitoring, and the Economic Adviser to the Governor.

Also speaking, Hon Ikechukwu Amuka stated that the committee has the onerous task of uncovering what actually happened to the said N10.5b which the immediate past government claimed to have used to pay contractors, whereas the named contractors are saying something to the contrary.

According to Hon Ikechukwu Amuka, Imo State government has areas where the money, if recovered could be utilised.

Hon Samuel Anyanwu said that he would use his past experience to ensure that the committee performed its duties most effectively in accordance with the expectations of Imo people.

According to Hon Celestine Ngobiwu, the terms of reference given to them would be thoroughly looked into without sentiments. He said that the committee would deploy transparency in the course of its investigation into the matter without witchhunting anybody. He added that Imo people are already watching the development.

Hon Mike Ndubuaku explained that none of the committee members knows who among those to be probed in the alleged “contract scam.”

T

HE Oron Union, Lagos Branch, have launched an ultra-modern multi-purpose office complex called the Oron Union House. It is situated at Okota, Isolo.

Lagos State governor Mr Babatunde Fashola hailed the Akwa Ibom community’s spirit, urging others to emulate them. Represented by Mr Wale Edun, the governor said such effort at development should be sustained.

The complex will house an information technology resource centre, a banquet hall, guest rooms, offices, a restaurant, among others.

It was a colourful occasion as the community also held its 11th Annual Cultural Festival at the twoday event held on December 9 and 10. The union’s members and their guests came in numbers, dressed in white shirts, red caps and wrappers to match.

The President, Mr Asuquo Inuikim, said the house is the first of its kind ever to be built by a community association of Akwa Ibom outside the state.

“It is also the first time Oron people have built an edifice for themselves outside of the geographical location called Oron.

“It, therefore, stands as a symbol of Oron’s collective determination to preserve our own identity and to ask for our own space and rights in the comity of ethnic nationalities that make up Akwa Ibom State in particular, and Nigeria in general,” Inuikim said.

Edun, who chaired the event, said he was honoured to be in their midst. He promised that the government would ensure the street where the house is located is tarred.

“You have done your own bit as citizens and a community. It is the responsibility of government to do their part and perfect the edifice.

The people have contributed their gold and silver to build a temple for common good,” he said.

Akwa Ibom Commissioner for Lands and Town Planning, Dr Bassey Antai, who represented

•Dr Bassey Antai (second left) cutting the tape. With him are Mr Wale Edun (right); Mr Asuquo Inuikim (left); Mrs Antai and Dr Emmanuel Ekuwem, Director of Teledom

Fashola hails Oron community’s spirit

By Nneka Nwaneri

Governor Godswill Akpabio, the said the event coincided with the governor’s birthday.

“Having looked through the house, I see it meets the standard of

the Akwa Ibom spirit of hospitality. It is a thing of joy seeing the Oron nation doing this.

“Today, I feel some emotions as a former president. My father will be very happy because his vision for Oron has come true.”

He challenged the leaders to be-

gin thinking of something else they can do to build capacity. “Help our women to be self-sufficient. Please take care of this house because it will be a house of fortress, a home away from home for the Oron people,” he said.

President-General of the union, Dr

Mfon Amana, paid tribute to the legends of Oro nation, saying they left their footprints in the sands of time.

He congratulated the Oron community in Lagos and thanked those who made the project possible for their sacrifice and hard work.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2011

40

We need to do a lot more in training, guiding, inspiring and in directing them the right way, which is not really done well at the moment. The conventional curriculum cannot take us there and that is why you see most of the young people engaging in riot against the system because learning is frustrating and not exciting

‘Our passion for youth development’

N

NEWI, the industrial hub of Anambra State was agog when members of Youth Alive Development Initiative (YADI) numbering nearly 2,000 held a sanitation rally in the town.

YADI is a non-governmental organisation (NGO) established to cater for the overall well-being of Nigerian youths.

Holding a piece of the Nigerian flag and kitted with hand gloves and paper bags, the youths went through major and interior parts of Nnewi, picking waste products along the road in a bid to keep the city clean.

Addressing the youths before the rally, Rev. Fr. Jude Chetanna Chukwuneke, a Catholic priest and Executive Director of the organisation, said they embarked on the sanitation rally to pass across the message of re-branding Nigeria, which he said, could only succeed with the support of youths.

Continuing, Fr. Chetanna, an engineer, said the main motive of establishing the Youth Alive Development Initiative was to train, build and develop the potential of future generations in Nigeria and Africa.

“The programmes and interventions of YADI are built around four cardinal points of nurturing hope, realising dreams, mentoring a generation and youth empowerment and enterprise development.

“Our programme is geared towards the formation of the total human person; spiritually, morally, physically, economically, socially and psychologically. Thus, this holistic approach makes the human person fully alive, reflecting the glory of God,” he said.

Stressing that it is cheaper to train,

From Emeka Attah, Awka

build and empower a youth than to repair an old man, Fr. Chetanna said YADI has helped hundreds of youths to discover their talents and succeeded in returning many school drop-outs back to school.

Also speaking, Rev. Fr. Lawrence Nnoyiba advised the youth to comport themselves well and respect their leaders as they work. He pointed out to them that there is dignity in labour and that Nigeria can only be transformed through them.

In his goodwill message to the youth, chairman, board of trustees of YADI, Prof. Pat Utomi urged the youth to believe in themselves and work in harmony towards achieving a common goal.

“Overcoming challenges of human progress have often been the product of zest, focus and capacity.

In many societies and generations, the abundant supply of this scarce resource has come from the youth of the country. The benefit of investing heavily in shaping or forming young people so that they can play this transforming role makes good the anecdote that every generation has a duty to make its shoulders available for the next person to stand on so that it can see tomorrow more clearly,” Utomi said.

Speaking in the same manner, the Deputy Executive Director of the NGO Dr. Bernard Odoh who is also lecturer in one of the universities said that he was motivated to identify with the Youth Alive programme because of circumstances surrounding his own humble beginning and the need to touch the

•Rev. Fr. Chetanna (left) and Dr. Odoh lives of the youth.

He said: “In the last nine years, I’ve read lots of books and I’ve also discovered that the gap between those who are succeeding and those who are not is knowledge. The knowledge I am talking about is not the conventional curriculumbased knowledge but the knowledge that is in tune with the realities of life.

“The average person spends six years each in primary and secondary schools and maybe five years in the university. Cumulatively, the average person spends about 20 to 22 years in school and in these 22 years of conventional training, he is not told anything about money, integrity or leadership.

“Suddenly, the person comes out

T

•Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Mrs. Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire presenting award to Sekinah Lawal of National Mirror newspapers as the Best Health Correspondent in Print at the 7th State Health Merit Awards ceremony held at the Shell Hall of MUSON Centre recently

of school and realises that he needs money to survive. He needs to be a leader and to work in any organisation; he needs to be a team player.

All these skills are required in the market place.

“As an individual, I went to school having diverse challenges.

So, when I began to study the difference between those who are succeeding and those who are failing, I realised it’s a personal thing. It is a function of what you have been able to put inside. For you to put in something reasonable inside, you have to remove what is not working.

“I’ve had the motivation and passion to work closely with the young people because everywhere around the world, youths are the driving

force.

“Last month, the world’s population hit 7 billion and it is now anticipated that in the next 10 years, it will go to 9 billion and the young people make up the bulk of this population.

“We need to do a lot more in training, guiding, inspiring and in directing them the right way, which is not really done well at the moment. The conventional curriculum cannot take us there and that is why you see most of the young people engaging in riot against the system because learning is frustrating and not exciting. They cannot connect with the reality of what we are teaching them now,” he stated.

Community demands justice over ex-militant’s death

HE community leader of Ewu Kingdom in Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State Mr. Andrew Omonikeme has urged security agents to investigate and bring to justice those behind the death of Mr. Ovie Omote (aka Prof) an ex-militant.

The ex-militant, who hailed from Orere in Ewu Kingdom was killed

by Ogor Vigilance Group on the allegation that he was caught with a pistol while they (Vigilance Group) were on stop-and-search duty along Patani off the East/West Road.

A cousin to the ex-militant Mr. Sunday Urhievweyere said: “At 9:00 a.m. on December 15, 2011, Ovie Omote asked me and his Secretary Miss Mercy Akore to accompany him to Ughelli and on our way between G.F.S Filling Station and Emordi Filling Station at Ogor Clan along Patani Road, a vigilance team in their Hilux van stopped us while the deceased was making a call.

“They asked us not to move or they would fire. They pointed the gun at him as we demanded to

From Polycarp Orosevwotu, Warri

know what the matter was. The deceased was forced into their vehicle and first drove towards Ewerni and later reversed and headed towards Ughelli. We pursued them to know where they were taking him to and at the same time calling our people to tell them what was going on.

“Later they drove him into AP Filling Station opposite Ogor Technical College where the deceased was dragged out from their vehicle. As he was asking the chairman of the vigilance group what he has done wrong, the chairman released three shots at him. He fell down and died instantly.

“I cried out when I noticed he was dead. We ran to tell our people that Prof has been shot dead by Ogor Vigilance Group without any reason. Immediately we moved to the palace of Ogor monarch to inform him of the incident.

He called the chairman on phone

to confirm our report to him. The chairman replied that they did not arrest anybody from Ewu let alone killing him.

“After a while, the monarch directed us to go to the Area Command to confirm if there was any corpse brought to them but on our way to the command, the Vigilance group harrassed us with their guns.

When we got to Area Commander’s office, he called on the “A” Division DPO to confirm if there was any corpse brought to the station and he then confirmed it and that he was an alleged criminal.

“Before we could get to where they dumped him, the vigilance group had removed from his pocket two handsets and N150, 000.

Reacting to the killing, the President-General of Orere Community Mr. Andrew Omonikeme referred to the killing as a dastardly act, saying that was another case of gross abuse of power by the Vigilance group. He urged the law enforcement agents to unravel the cause of his death and bring the perpetrators to book.

42

THE NATION FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2011

43

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2011

POLITICS THE NATION

E-mail:- politics@thenationonlineng.net

2012 will be a busy year for politicians in Edo State. In the first quarter, the parties are expected to pick candidates for the governorship election. Campaigns will fill the void in the second quarter. The election is scheduled for July in the third quarter. The governor will be inaugurated in November. Correspondent OSAGIE OTABOR surveys the field.

Confusion in Edo as 2012 draws near

T

HE Labour Party (LP), Con gress for Progressive Change (CPC), All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP) and the Progressive Peoples Party (PPP) have decided to field a consensus candidate for next year’s governorship in Edo State. They may have decided to endorse the candidacy of Mr. Solomon Edebiri.

For the ruling Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), Governor Adams Oshiomhole appears the sole candidate. Leaders of the party in the state have backed Oshiomhole for a second term and no other aspirant has emerged within the party.

It is still difficult to guess who would emerge as the candidate to fly the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) flag following the large number of aspirants who have declared intention to contest the party’s primaries.

A former member of the State House of Assembly and Chairman of Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) in the state, Hon Matthew Iduoriyikemwen, has also joined the race, fuelling speculations that he might be the anointed candidate from Edo South.

Other top contenders for the PDP ticket include Hon Julius Ihonvbere, Barr.

Kenneth Imasuangbon popularly known as ‘Rice man’, Senator

Oserheimen Osunbor and Major General Charles Airhiavbere.

Sources at the PDP told The Nation that the battle for the PDP ticket will be between Prof Oserheimen Osunbor and Iduoriyikemwen. Airhiavbere, according to the source, has not spent up to two years as a member of the PDP and therefore might be disqualified. There are also speculations that the PDP hierarchy is uncomfortable with the manner Airhiavbere was retired from the military and that their opponents might use it to score cheap political points if he is given the party’s ticket.

It was learnt that Ihonvbere and Imasuangbon are watching keenly if a level playing field will be provided for the aspirants. Imasuangbon, during a visit to the party secretariat to declare his intention, stirred hornets’ nest when he expressed reservation on the ability of the PDP leaders to conduct fair primaries.

Imasuangbon’s fears were not unconnected with reports that the PDP might opt for an Edo South candidate if the party is to defeat Oshiomhole at the polls.

Imasuangbon and Ihonvbere are said to consider Airhiavbere as a new comer in the party who should not reap where he did not sow.

• Oshiomhole

•Ihonvbere

The Nation learnt that the drafting of Iduoriyikemwen into the governorship race was to calm frayed nerves if eventually he is picked as the party’s candidate.

In the ACN, the choice of Oshiomhole’s running mate has caused acrimony within the party’s leadership and followership.

Spearheading the removal of incumbent Deputy Governor,

• Osunbor

Dr. Pius Odubu, is National Vice Chairman of ACN (South South) and former Secretary to the Edo State Government, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu.

Some youths recently protested through the streets of Benin City demanding the removal of Odubu from next year governorship race.

Their reasons were that Odubu does not act accordingly whenever Oshiomhole travels.

It was learnt that the battle to remove Odubu is a battle over who

replaced Oshiomhole in 2016.

Those pushing for Odubu’s removal, it was learnt, reasoned that Odubu might become too powerful to stop in 2016 when Oshiomhole leaves office.

An ACN leader who pleaded anonymity told The Nation that the clamour for the removal of Dr. Odubu is the Igbinedion’s ploy to get back to power in the state.

The ACN leader confirmed that Oshiomhole had repeatedly asked for 10 reasons why he must drop Odubu he considered to be ‘very loyal’.

Unconfirmed reports have it that Oshiomhole has decided to call the bluff of those ACN leaders pushing for the removal of Odubu by insisting that he will not drop Odubu.

Meanwhile, a socio-political group, the Edo United for Good Governance described those contending for next year’s governorship election in Edo State as ‘political jokers and day dreamers’.

The group said it reached its conclusion after it examined the character of major contenders for the governorship race especially in the PDP. Spokesperson for the group, Mrs. Evelyn Igbafe who stated it at a press briefing said: “No governor can perform wonders in a kleptomaniac and ruinous party as we had before this government”.

According to the group, “Prof Osunbor was a governor on a platform the courts declared fraudulent and can be described as hopelessly incompetent and colourless.

Major-General Airhiavbere was in the army as a pay officer. He has no political antecedent and therefore can be described as a political recruit.”

“Prof Julius Ihonvbere is not a person to govern a pacesetter state like Edo”.

Mrs. Igbafe who described Oshiomhole as a dogged fighter who has transformed the state, said the group would mobilise residents of the state, including civil society groups for the re-election of Oshiomhole.

As more aspirants continue to emerge in the parties, March 2012 will determine the political tempo. That is when Oshiomhole will know those to face at the poll.

PDP factions battle to control Kano Assembly From Kolade Adeyemi, Kano

•Kwankwaso

A

PPARENTLY worried about recent development in the Kano State House of Assembly, which resulted in the palace coup that led to the impeachment of former Speaker, Yusuf Falgore, Governor Rabiu

Musa Kwankwaso has set up a committee to restore peace to the House.

Following the development, Kwankwaso met with stakeholders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) with a view to finding out the circumstances that led to the removal of the former Speaker while he was on an official trip to Abuja.

The meeting, which took place at Africa House in the Government House, had in attendance members of the state executive of the party, and leaders from the 44 local government areas of the state.

The stakeholders were assigned the responsibility of interacting with their representatives in the House as part of measures to address the seeming crisis that led to the sudden change in the leadership of the House.

The committee, which is made

up of party leaders from the local governments and is expected to send a feedback to the governor at the end of their findings.

Alhaji Gambo Muhammadu Danpass, who is the spokesman of the group, told reporters that the speculation that Kwankwaso is plotting removal of the new Speaker is the handiwork of mischief makers.

He said: “The opposition will stop at nothing to see to the downfall of the Kwankwaso government”, stating that the notion that the governor would not accept Gambo Salau as Speaker because he is a member of the Garkowa, political group in the Kano PDP, would remain at the level of speculation.

He explained that “We were directed by the chief executive to meet with Assembly with a view to interacting with them and advance in the process

government desire for understanding and restoration of unity among members”.

He disclosed that they have five days to complete the assignment and report back to the governor.

Gambo condemned the national leadership of the party, accusing it of plotting to bring down Kwankwaso because of what he said is their hatred for the governor, after failing to stop him from picking the ticket at the last governorship primaries.

Kwankwaso’s media chief, Saidu Tudunwada, said Kwankwaso never at any time contemplated sponsoring the removal of the new Speaker, as it is entirely the responsibility of the House, pointing out that the relationship between the legislative and executive arm of government remains intact.

“We all know that the opposition has always towed the line of antagonism against the PDP government, which is expected, but

one thing is certain, the governor has never shown undue interest in the leadership change in the Assembly.”

A palace coup of sorts took place on the floor of the state Assembly last week with the impeachment of the Speaker Yusuf Abdullahi Falgore, barely six months after he assumed office.

His colleagues replaced him with Gambo Salau who was sworn in immediately after the contest for the vacant seat. He defeated two other candidates.

Thirty-two of the 40 House members voted in support of the impeachment.

The Deputy Speaker, Isiaku Danga presided over the impeachment proceedings and subsequent election of the new Speaker. Motion to that effect was moved by Lawal Safiyanu Gogori representing Bagwai/Shanono constituency.

During the election, the new Speaker, Gambo Salau got 22 votes, Kabiru Rurum, seven and Ibrahim Abba one vote.

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THE NATION FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2011

POLITICS

Dakingari wins appeal in Kebbi From Adamu Suleiman, Sokoto

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HE Appeal Court sitting in Sokoto led by Justice Amiru Sanusi yester day quashed the judgment of the Kebbi State governorship election tribunal which nullified the election of Governor Usman Dakingari.

Justice Sanusi who led four other members of the Court ruled in favour of Dakingari, setting aside the lower court verdict.

However, the chairman of Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) in the state, Alhaji Suleiman Nasiha, has vowed to appeal the ruling.

The Justice Mairo Laraba Yusuf-led threemember tribunal had on November 13, 2011 nullified Dakingari’s election and ordered a fresh election within 90 days. Dissatisfied with the tribunal’s earlier ruling, Dakingari appealed the ruling at the Sokoto division of the Court of Appeal.

The lead Judge ruled on three of the five issues which were the grounds of the appeal in favour of Dakingari while two were ruled against him.

In the same vein, the cross appeal of the respondents led by the CPC and its gubernatorial candidate, Alhaji Abubakar GariMalam which prayed the court to declare Gari-Malam as the duly elected governor of the state was also thrown out.

Justice Sanusi said that the cross appeal was dismissed due to lack of merit. He consequently upturned the earlier ruling of the tribunal.

The lead counsel of the appellant, Mr Yakubu Mai-Kyau (SAN), accepted the verdict of the court.

Mr Ogene Nero, counsel to the CPC rejected the judgment, vowing to contest it at the Supreme Court.

Meanwhile, Nasiha hinted that the party had begun arrangements to appeal against the ruling at the Apex court within the 21 days specified by the law.

“We will also appeal against the ruling of the Sokoto Court of Appeal on our cross appeal and we will pray the Supreme Court to declare our candidate as the duly elected governor of the state,” he said, adding: “Justice was not done in the matter and we are determined to seek redress to any level. We will redress the imbalance and injustice meted to us.’’

The state CPC chairman who commended their lawyers and members urged them to continue to be law-abiding.

‘Keep faith with ACN in Bayelsa’

By Musa Odoshimokhe

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HE governorship candidate of the Ac tion Congress of Nigeria (ACN) in Bayelsa State, Kemela Okara, has urged the people of the state to remain steadfast in their march toward the transformation of the state.

Okara told The Nation that the state was the most endowed in Nigeria, but was least developed. He said that despite the high revenue accruing into state, the hopes and aspirations of its people had not been met due to lack of focus by the current administration.

He said the ACN leadership in Bayelsa State would transform the state because its manifestoes were centred on the people’s welfare, which were presently being implemented in ACN-controlled states in the country.

Okara said: “Our mission is to transform Bayelsa into becoming a 21st century pacesetter state in Nigeria. For this reason, we have put in place Bayelsa Integrated Development Strategy (BIDS) to actualise our plans.”

The ACN candidate maintained that it was time to get the youth physically engaged in the transformation of the state than giving them handouts which in the long run would not help their aspirations.

He noted that BIDS would encompass infrastructural development, provision of healthcare services, job creation, improvement of the environment through collaborative effort with all stakeholders and qualitative education to meet the millennium development goal.

Former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Chibudom Nwuche, is a confidant of President Goodluck Jonathan. In this interview with select journalists in Abuja, he bares his mind on sundry national issues, including the fuel subsidy controversy and the bombings by Boko Haram.

Abuja Bureau Chief YOMI ODUNUGA was there.

Governors hold key to progress, says Nwuche

Y

OU are a staunch member of the Peoples Democratic Party, would say the party is setting good examples in the area of fostering internal democracy?

I think there is need for more internal democracy in the parties, be it PDP, Action Congress of Nigeria and so on. The parties tend to impose candidates on the masses. When you go and choose an unpopular candidate, you must now go and rig for him to win. Whereas if people are chosen and masses have a say and if the primaries are free and fair and open and not influenced with money, people who are popular will emerge and by that there will be no reason for them to rig. The governors decide at the state level and also at the centre. The day governors decide that Nigeria should progress rapidly, it would progress because they practically select everybody in the system- the senators, House of Representatives members, council chairmen, commissioners of the state, ministers and even advisers. So they can change this country if they so wish.

You were one of the notable persons that stuck out their necks for President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, would you say that you are satisfied with the ways he has been handling governance?

I believe the president has done remarkably, well not because he is my friend but because I can speak objectively on this matter. I see clear efforts to address the issue of power, repair of our roads, boost security and, really, six months is not adequate to judge a government.

The president, I know means well for this country and he is doing his best to see it translates to welfare for the masses and he is not corrupt. So I think that, with time, Nigerians would see that he is somebody who would have made a difference in history.

What is your take on insecurity in the country?

I think it is caused by many factors, there is unemployment. It is difficult to secure a country no matter the number of police you have.

When the people have nothing to do, they will commit crime. So we must find ways to engage the youths and make them productive; that would take out some of the available matter for crime. Then citizens who are habitual criminal must be punished. People commit crimes in this country bribing people and going scot-free. We must punish crime. We can’t let case be in court for seven years. The courts must be reformed so that can they dispense justice quickly. If a punishment is far away from the crime, people cannot see the connection; a man killed somebody in 1930 and you hang him in 1950, it is too long and forgotten. So we must punish crime aggressively so that people desist from it.

Is there anything he should have done to put an end to the spate of bombings, terrorism and criminality?

I expect the security agencies like the police, SSS and so on to do more thorough work and I expect some proactive measures to be taken. The idea of rushing to scenes of the blasts, after people have been blown up and taking inventory of the dead, is not policing. It should be investigative.

People who are doing the bombings are not spirits, they are Nigerians. Well, not all of them are Nigerians because some of them are from neighbouring countries. They should stop the crimes before they even happen. What I must say is that the experience we had in the Niger Delta when the SSS was brought into the issue of kidnapping, you saw the remarkable improvement in the arrest and the unveiling of those behind kidnapping. I think we should use them more on this issue, give them full autonomy to be able to detect crimes and prosecute the crimes themselves. I think if you are appointed to head an agency and you fail to perform, then you should have the honour to resign or sack somebody whose negligence caused the crime. Crimes, bombings occur and nobody resigns or sacked, so what is going on? You can’t put everything on the President’s table.

Don’t you think a religious dimension has been introduced to the crisis with the bombing of churches?

The bombing of churches is unfortunate because it tends to create impression that the matter is religious when we know that the matter is not religious, but political. This is why government agencies must hurry up and unearth those behind these activities so that it doesn’t spread.

There are divergent views on the plans by gov-

• Nwuche ernment to remove subsidy of petrol, what are your thoughts on this controversial issue?

My major concern is the level of corruption and graft that surrounds and beclouds fuel subsidy and whether the masses are beneficiaries or victims of it. For instance, I read a report where NIMASA claimed that a vessel was seen in Port Harcourt loading DPK and the same vessel spotted in Lagos, sometimes later, discharging into another vessel and that vessel went back to Port Harcourt with some DPK. So what I summarized from that point was that this is now a locally subsidized DPK which is N42 per litre and they then take it offshore only to bring it back once more as imported DPK to the government. That is perhaps why the amount of consumption of fuel is exaggerated. They say 35 million litres per day for Nigeria, how can you justify that when there are no industries? Almost all the businesses have closed down. Then who is using the products?

The rate of unemployment is so high. My worry is that subsidy, as a concept, is targeted at those that make subsidy. The subsidy is used to further enrich these few persons. If we want to fight corruption seriously, then we should tackle those wrongly-placed subsidies that enrich few people the cabal. I think we should remove subsidy, I don’t believe that its removal will add much to inflation because Nigerians must also stop the habit of rumoured increase in petroleum products whereby people will hike their goods like 100 per cent. They should ask themselves what is the proportion as an input into production for that particular PMS (petrol) – in this case, it is PMS and not AGO (diesel). AGO has been deregulated long time ago. People should not be emotional about the debate; we should ask ourselves, can we afford to pay N1.4 trillion which is 1/3 of our national budget on subsidizing just fuel alone? That money is better used to provide infrastructure like roads, healthcare, etc in an intelligent manner that is devoid of corruption. I support removal of fuel subsidy if the proceeds are going to be delivered to those who need the subsidy directly.

Are saying it should be removed even without any physical framework on how the accruable funds would be managed?

I think Nigerians should focus attention on urging the Nigerian government to show that these funds that are retrieved from subsidy in the estimate of N1.3tr are captured and protected in a

‘Regarding the size and number of states that we have, I tend to share the view of an elder statesman, Alhaji Tanko Yakasai, who recently proposed that the states should be abolished and return to regional government and that Nigerians will then see the benefits of government’

way that you can see where it is targeted at.

They must find a way of ensuring that the funds do not linger in the overall pool that will now go to fund a bloated bureaucracy and overhead cost. So I think Nigerians should rather begin to urge government to show where these funds are targeted towards.

Are you suggesting that we promulgate a law that will take care of the misapplication of the funds?

Well, that is a possibility. But the difficulty I have is that we need to trust government more and make its officials more accountable. We should not elect people we don’t trust, and they must be more vibrant, observant.

We know how much the funds are which you can see in the budget every year. You can then insist on the promise made in the budget. We need to put an agency afresh like the Petroleum Trust Fund. The PTF worked but I think there is a strong argument for the money to be warehoused under a legal framework that will give, at least, more assurance to Nigerians. But in the absence of that, there is still tendency for the government to withdraw these funds inappropriately. People will be more confident if there is a structure.

But then, mistrust still persists. For example, the Minister of Petroleum Resources during her presentation in Lagos listed the Lagos/Ibadan Expressway which is on concession to BiCourtney, as one of the projects that will be handled with the funds. Is that not borne out of deceit? Do you have confidence in the so-called plan of the government to entrust the money to a body of men with integrity to run the fund?

Can this really work given our peculiar way of doing things?

Well, I don’t know what the minister said as regards deployment of funds to Ibadan-Lagos Expressway. But I believe if the road is under concession, it should be left to the firm involved to handle and on time too. On the issue of men of integrity, that boils down to the same thing as setting up an agency like the PTF and putting people who have integrity to run it. If that is what they are thinking, then it is not bad because Nigerians need to know that the people they trust have been tending the realized funds from subsidy removal.

I believe the Federal Government has a robust national assembly watching over their activities but the weaknesses are at the state levels which their assemblies must be held accountable so that funds would not be filtered away.

Nigerians must urge the assemblies of the states to do their jobs. Maybe that is why I say the system should be restructured. Maybe we should revert to regional governments.

Do you think the present system is working or should we go back to the old regional arrangement or should we prune the number of states?

Well, regarding the size and number of states that we have, I tend to share the view of an elder statesman, Alhaji Tanko Yakasai, who recently proposed that the states should be abolished and return to regional government and that Nigerians will see the benefits of government. The belief is that the regions, in the 60s, worked very well. On the issue of parliamentary system, I think it has a strong point and should be considered seriously because in the parliamentary system of government, the ministers who served in government are also members of parliament.

So they enjoy public confidence and they go out to seek for votes. So people should sow and reap.

Nobody should stay on the side lines, holding no views, care for nobody and then hold portfolio to influence their lives. I believe if it is parliamentary, there will be no room for technocrats.

If you are a technocrat, you must first of all go and know your people, empathize with them and run for elections. But the system we have now doesn’t encourage hard work. In the parliamentary system, you have fewer parliaments but now it is so large.

We are a poor country compared to Oman or Saudi Arabia because we produce 2.4 million barrels per day for 150 million people which makes it insignificant. If we adopt a zonal structure, the bureaucracies of the various states will be collapsed into a zonal bureaucracy. Perhaps, maybe one-fifth personnel required will run the zonal bureaucracy and we will save money for capital projects. When we spend 70 per cent of the budget as recurrent, we cannot grow our economy like that. We have to employ our youths.

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Vol 3 No. 156

The story of Interswitch, Africa’s leading e-transaction brand, and its successes so far, are in tandem with the dream of the company’s founder, Mitchell Elegbe, whose vision is to see that the continent becomes a cashless society, writes WALE ALABI.

Interswitch: Positioning Africa’s e-transaction brand P

ERHAPS to realise his dream, which he is pursuing with vigour, the founder, Interswitch, Mitchell Elegbe, has become a phenomenon in the continent’s etransaction sector.

As a brand, Interswitch is the major platform for etransactions and e-payment in the country and even beyond.

For making transactions convenient, safer and easier, Interswitch’s positive contribution has been widely acclaimed both in Nigeria and beyond. This can be gleaned from the percentage of Interswitch’s market share and it’s impact on consumers’ lifestyle, as legion of Nigerians now carry ATM cards and thus endorsing e-transaction in Nigeria.

At present, Interswitch controls 80-90 per cent of the market share with major Nigeria banks hooked on to its e-payment and e-transaction platforms. This is in agreement with the vision of Interswitch’s brand custodians. Rather than going about with raw cash, people should be buying, selling and paying electronically. “ Since ATMs are everywhere, people no longer go about with large sums of money. If there is need to buy anything you can always go to the next ATM machine and obtain cash for whatever transaction. A lot of people never thought this would have been possible in Nigeria. They would rather talk about challenges. These challenges still exist but the system works. It is better to focus more on the kind of impact you can make and that is basically what we do,” Elegbe said.

To educate Nigerians on e-transaction, Interswitch three years ago started the cardholders’awareness campaign in Lagos with the sole aim of protecting card holders from scammers and fraudsters, who tamper with ATM cards and PINs to access cardholders bank’ accounts. The campaign was jointly sponsored by Interswitch and participating banks. It was conceptualised to create awareness on card usage without creating unnecessary panic in the minds of cardholders and to also enlighten them of other channels where cards can be used apart from cash withdrawals at ATMs. Interswitch also backs some telecomms brands in their recharge card transactions. More than 10 financial institutions in the country also have the support of Interswitch, in the delivering of Nigeria’s first Virtual Top Up (VTU) solution.

Some of the banks include Access Bank, Fidelity Bank, Firstbank,

‘A cashless society is possible, but only when we all decide to pay and accept transactions electronically.

But, increasingly, the world is moving towards the adoption on net-cash. No society can thrive successful in North America, US, Japan and other countries’ BT Bank, Intercontinental Bank, Skye Bank, SpringBank UBA, Union Bank and Unity Bank. This allows mobile phone subscribers, recharge their mobile phones on all Interswitch enabled ATMs and PoS terminals using their Interswitchenabled payment debit card or CashCard.

“A cashless society is possible, but only when we all decide to pay and accept transactions electronically. But, increasingly, the world is moving towards the adoption on net-cash. No society can thrive successful in North America, US, Japan and other countries,”explained Elegbe.

To widen its scope of operations in Africa, Interswitch has just unveiled its refreshed corporate brand identity. This is aimed at repositioning it as a Pan-African integrated transaction and payment processing brand.

Speaking at the presentation of the brand identity in Lagos, Elegbe, said: “We are expanding into East and West Africa, however, we realise that Interswitch has typically been viewed as a card company and the primary driver of the growth in Automated Teller Machines, and Point of Sale Terminal usage in Nigeria, but we do far more than that. We are, therefore, refreshing our identity and communication to reflect exactly

•Elegbe

what we do and how we can serve organisations and governments across Africa.

The repositioning of our business has given us an opportunity to refresh our corporate identity in line with current times, develop consumer associations in line with our business offering, and create an awareness of our products and services in existing and new markets”.

Interswitch opened the preliminary stage of its Pan-Africa expansion driven through the sale of 67 per cent equity to Helios Investment Partners and Adlevo Capital. Helios has significant investments in financial service firms in East and West Africa while Adlevo Capital has typically invested in businesses where technology and continuous innovation are critical for business success.

Prior to the sale, Interswitch had acquired a controlling stake in Bankom Limited, Uganda’s only licensed inter-bank switch, and more recently won a competitive bid to partner with the Central Bank and Bankers Committee of Gambia and Sierra Leone to design, implement and manage the national switches in these countries.

•From left: Event Planner, Miss Bisi Padonu; Managing Director, Thots and Works and author, Basics of Branding, Mrs. Oluwaseun Ogunleye; CEO, Delegates Tours and Aviation Ltd, Mrs. Foluso Odeyemi and Mrs. Peju Murele, at the press presentation of the book in Lagos

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As LG unveils world’s first scanner mouse

e-banking for all

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•The new scanner

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N living up to its promise of meeting consumers’ needs with innovative products and cutting-edge technology, LG Electronics has once again created a new era for scanners with the launch of LSM100, the mouse with an in-built scanner.

The innovative mouse incorporates technology specifically developed for the new device, offering an array of unique functions that blend surprising innovation and user convenience.

The LG LSM-100 Scanner Mouse is the world’s first mouse with an embedded scanner function that offers convenience, mobility and simplicity. An innovative scanner that breaks through the limitations of complicated, non-portable conventional scanners is expected to be the next hit in the technology market.

In addition to a laser sensor for regular mouse duties, the LSM-100 also incorporates scanning technology that allows it to scan page sizes of up to A3 size, outdoing most portable scanners. Along with the left, right and back mouse buttons, the LSM-100 also features a Smart Scan button on its left side that when held down, allows the user to swipe the mouse over the material to be scanned. Besides, it has an upgraded scanning technology that allows it to handle faster pass-over rates for speedier scanning.

Worthy of note is that scanned images can be saved in PNG, JPEG, TIFF, BMP, PDF, XLS or DOC format, or dragged and dropped into the desired application. The LSM-100 also features Optical Character Recognition (OCR) technology to convert scanned text into editable text within a Microsoft Word document.

The LG Scanner Mouse LSM-100 is HIDcompliant and equipped with a 1200 cpi Laser Class 1, with a scanner that is capable of scanning documents up to 300 dpi in full colour.

LSM-100 is a device primarily designed to save space and provide a cost-effective way for people to scan, save and edit their hard copy document which can be any form of Word and Excel spreadsheets to photos and images. The LSM-100 is small, light, portable and of course smart; it overcomes the need for bulky, expensive scanners.

Commenting on this initiative, the Head, IT Division of LG Electronics, West Africa Operations, Mr Dave Shin, said: “Continual innovation and focus on research and development is at the heart of everything we do, which is why LG Electronics is the industry leader in technology innovation.”

Shin further said LSM-100 uses its lower section with five LEDs which reflect the image that the user scans into the mouse.

By pressing the scan button, the device activates, displaying whatever is below the mouse onto the user’s screen. Within the supporting software, users can paste, share, save, print and also edit the document or image. The contrast, brightness, rotation and resizing option are also available.

It would delight users to know that scanned documents can be shared with social media groups such as Flicker, Facebook and Twitter, or through email.

The Smart Scan also enables business users to electronically scan documents (magazines, business cards, text books, images, drawings and more), making this device useful not just for consumers, but also businesses.

LG Electronics is, no doubt, leaving up to its brands promise of making available products that meet and suit the needs of its teeming consumers.

OLAJI Ogeyingbo, e-payment savvy and a fan, writes on how banking can reach mobile payment as part of e-banking should be leveraged to deliver maximum value to the customer. I believe the ability to get funds at the instance of need combined with the security of your fund and safe transfer is not enough. Other business methodologies will boost the Nigerian economy in many ways.

In addition, I have thought of innovative ways of employing basic mobile technology (SMS and imaging) to deliver mobile payment services. Beginning with the business methodology of adding more financial services, I thought it wise to provide secure and risk free credit and investment services based on each customer’s contribution.

To start with, assuming customer A comes with a worst-case scenario. I am trying to fault the five C’s of credit here. So the customer said he has turned a new leaf and wants to start his credit history all over again.

Should he be shunned (banished for life) or given an opportunity?

This is where my business model starts to build from, anyone that demands credit for any purpose should first sow a seed and wait for it to mature into the credit he crave for.

What I mean is a very small deposit; say N500 or less should be deposited and managed in a hierarchical unit management system.

Growth in any business depends on the volume of business done or the number of customers serviced. E-payment has both, and ebanking should realign their business strategies along this line to experience such monumental growth, which in this case can be better managed through an autonomic software system with the policies configured in it, servicing such high number of people without manual interference or manual policy management.

Also, all banking products should be available for all and traditionally risks involved products, such as credit, should be based on contribution and the length of the customers’ relationship with the financial institution, and not based on status as currently is the case in the Nigerian banking industry.

Otherwise it will just be banking for aristocrats or a few selected people, which is the current practice. That is why most banks are being liquidated and some are facing financial crisis.

The more the number of people involved in having access to the entire banking product based on contribution and length of relationship, the less the risk and loss that the financial institution will be exposed too - a simple probability theory prove this.

It is quite unfair, very unfair to collect deposit from a large number of people and restrict the people from having access to other banking products such as credit and investment. Banking in Nigeria, because of the way it is being practiced is disconnect with other financial services have polarised the Nigerian economy in such a way that only some sectors of the economy are growing so fast while the others are not supported.

For example, more people in real estate, agriculture, hospitality and petroleum derived products are supported by the finance industry while other very promising sector, such as high-tech (software, automation, manufacturing and medical are not.

This high-tech industries, however, though high risk, brings the highest turnover and revenue in the Western world. These products are imported and take away most of our income regularly. The second part, which deals with service delivery, is where mobile payment comes in.

All banking products should be available through electronic or mobile channels. The days of brick and mortar business has long passed and electronic channels have huge capacity of delivery service to millions of people at very low cost.

Therefore, I believe, either from the web, mobile phone or ATM, customers should be able to access all banking products through these three channels and not only to pay a third party or withdraw cash.

E-banking makes business transactions safe, convenient and secure.

In totality, banking should be open to all, else the cycle of fund liquidation in financial institution and support will continue forever.

‘Therefore, I believe, either from the web, mobile phone or ATM, customers should be able to access all banking products through these three channels and not only to pay a third party or withdraw cash. E-banking makes business transactions safe, convenient and secure’

•From left: Managing Director, Noah’s Ark Communication, Lanre Adisa; Head Girl, Community Senior High School, Wasimi, Maryland, Lagos, Maria Anifowose and Acting Principal, Mrs Augustina Okerekwu, during the presentation of gifts to the school as part of the company’s social responsibility to its host community.

*Editor - Wale Alabi *Consulting Editors - Rarzack Olaegbe, Sola Fanawopo * Correspondent-Jimi David * Human Relations Executive - Owolabi Afolabi *Operations Executive - Isiaka Hassan *Creative - Oluwaseyi Sulaimon*Front Office Executive - Blessing Nkeanya * Business Development - Kenny Hussain * Legal Adviser - Olasupo Osewa & Co Brandweek is powered by Drumbeat Media and published every Friday in THE NATION newspaper. Corporate Suite: 20 Akinremi Street, off Awolowo Way, Ikeja, Lagos.

All correspondence to the editor - 0808.247.7806, 0805.618.0040, , e-mail: korede2000@gmail.com © All rights reserved.

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EQUITIES NIGERIAN STOCK EXCHANGE

Market recovers with N49b gain • Nahco uses N2b bond to retool business

DAILY SUMMARY AS AT 29-12-11

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HE Nigerian stock market recovered yes terday as investors gained N49 billion in a rally orchestrated by manufacturing companies. Aggregate market capitalisation of all equities rose from N6.497 trillion to N6.546 trillion while the All Share Index (ASI) appreciated by 0.76 per cent from 20,617.23 points to 20,773.98 points.

Dangote Cement led the rally with a gain of N5.27 to close at N110.77 per share.

Flour Mills of Nigeria followed with a gain of N2.96 to close at N62.34.

GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Nigeria added 90 kobo to close at N23.90. Unilever Nigeria rose by 50 kobo to close at N28.50 while Zenith Bank gathered 41 kobo to close at N12.40 per share.

On the other hand, Nigerian Breweries lost N5.23 to close at N99.37. Forte Oil dropped by 61 kobo to close at N11.62. Oando lost 50 kobo to close at N21. Ashaka Cement slipped by 34 kobo to close at N11.16 while Stanbic IBTC Bank lost 20 kobo to close at N8 per share.

Total turnover stood at 303.81 million shares valued at N1.41 billion in 2,490 deals.

Banking subsector remained atop activity chart with a turnover of 133.05 million shares worth N826.17 million in 1,320 deals. Insurance subsector followed with a turnover of 87.07 million shares valued at N52.28 million in 98 deals. Automobiles and auto parts subsector ranked third with four deals struck for 63.48 million shares

By Taofik Salako and Tonia Osundolire

of DN Tyre and Rubber worth N31.74 million.

Meanwhile, NIGERIAN Aviation Handling Company (Nahco) Plc has used the net proceeds of the N2 billion first tranche of its N5 billion bond issuance programme to place orders for new equipment and additional infrastructure to strengthen the competitive advantages of the company.

Managing director, Nigerian Aviation Handling Company (Nahco) Plc, said the company has started using the net proceeds of the bond issue to finance its t r a n s f o r m a t i o n programmes which included expansion and modernization of its warehouse, acquisition of state of the art equipment, expansion of services to some African countries, development of human resources and upgrading of information and communication technology infrastructure.

He said the net proceeds of the N2 billion first tranche were being expended on acquisition of ground handling equipment to augment its operations.

“The first tranche of N2 billion was specifically for acquisition of equipment; that is about $13 million. Those equipment are coming on the first quarter of 2012 because they are not just what you order and get immediately. In 2010, we also spent about $7 million and a little

bit above $6 million in 2009.

These are not just to replace the old ones but to add new ones to cope with competitive pressure,” Ojo said.

Beside the bond issue that is being used to acquire new equipment, the Nahco managing director said the company has committed another N2 billion to the modernization and expansion of its warehouse.

He noted that the warehouse, which was built sometime in the 80s, is now being rebuilt into a larger structure with state-of-theart security and handling features.

“When the warehouse is completed, it would have expanded the capacity of the edifice to handle the annual throughput to 200,000 and 60,000 tons of imports and exports cargo respectively with modern facilities such as semiautomation aspect which incorporates mechanical conveying system and frictionless raised platform-castor mat area, in addition to the re-construction of the access road and working floor areas to enhance the speed and efficiency of the cargo handling processes and enhance security in the cargo area,” Ojo said.

He said the company also planned to expand its business activities into other markets and has already sent teams to explore business opportunities in some selected countries.

He said the company was also investing in electricity power distribution company with some other Nigerian and foreign partners.

NIGERIAN STOCK EXCHANGE DAILY SUMMARY AS AT 29-12-11

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MONEY LINK

Cash-lite Lagos: CBN unveils take-off modalities

T

HE Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has clarified how the Cash-lite pilot scheme, which is set to commence on January 1st, 2012, in Lagos, will be implemented.

The apex bank confirmed that the policy will commence in Lagos State as planned, but fines for default will commence on March 31, 2012.

CBN Director, Currency Operations Department, Mahmoud Umar, said in a statement that banks will cease cash-in-transit lodgement services rendered to merchant-customers in Lagos from December 31st, 2011. He said only Cash-In-Transit licensed companies would be allowed to provide cash pick-up services. Any bank

By Collins Nweze

that continues to offer cash-in-transit lodgement services to merchants would be sanctioned accordingly.

Umar, also explained that thirdparty cheques above N150, 000 shall not be eligible for encashment over the counter. Value for such cheques shall be received through the clearing house.

He said service charges/fees will not apply until March 30th, 2012, in order to give people time to migrate to electronic channels and experience the infrastructure that has been put in place.

“Banks should continue to encourage their customers to migrate to available electronic channels, and where possible, demonstrate the cost

or deposited for instance, if an individual withdraws N50, 000 over the counter and N150, 000 from the ATM on the same day, the total amount withdrawn by the customer is N200, 000, and the service charge will apply on N50, 000, the amount above the daily limit. The limit also applies to cash brought through CIT companies, as the CIT Company only serves as a means of transportation,” he said.

Umar said charges shall apply from March 30, 2012, in Lagos, even as the service charge for daily cumulative deposits above the limit into an account shall be borne by the account holder. However, during the pilot in Lagos, individuals paying

that will accrue to those that continue to transact high volumes of cash after March 31st in Lagos,” he said.

The apex bank also explained that the policy applies to all accounts, including collection accounts, advising banks to work with their corporate customers to arrange for suitable e-collection options.

Besides, the limits are cumulative daily limits each for withdrawal, and for deposits. For Individuals, the daily free withdrawal limit is N150, 000, while the daily free deposit limit is N150, 000. The limits apply to the account so far as it involves cash, whether it is over the counter, Automated Teller Machine (ATM) or third party cheques cashed over the counter.

“This allows cash to be withdrawn

SEC okays N27b Ondo bond

Shareholders approve UBA’s transformation plan

S

T

HE Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) have approved the bid by the Ondo State Government to raise fresh funds through its N50 billion Debt Issuance Programme under, which the state intends to issue a first tranche of N27 billion.

The State will be the 12th to approach the capital markets since the first debt issuance programme by Lagos State in February, 2009.

The approvals, came against the backdrop of the state’s compliance with the constitutional and legal framework for borrowing money to finance developmental projects.

The Investment and Securities Act (ISA) requires a state desiring to borrow money to enact a law authorising the issuance of bonds and specifying that a sinking fund fully funded from the consolidated revenue fund account be established. The Ondo State Issuance of Debt and other Securities Law 2011 (“the Bonds Law”) was enacted and all the necessary approvals, obtained.

• Three firms to be listed

HAREHOLDERS of United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc yes terday in Lagos, unanimously endorsed the transformation of the bank into an international financial services holding company, technically completing the regrouping of former subsidiaries into an international financial services group.

With the approval, shareholders of UBA would receive proportionate equities in three other public limited liability companies to be quoted on the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) in what a shareholder leader described as a buy one get three free deal.

Shareholders unanimously commended the transformation of the bank, noting that the holding company structure has unlocked significant values for them. BGL Plc is the financial adviser to the transaction.

Under the new structure, a nonoperating company to be listed and known as UBA Holdings Plc,

By Taofik Salako

would become the parent company of three intermediate holding companies namely; United Bank for Africa Plc, UBA Africa Holdings Limited and UBA Capital Holdings Limited.

United Bank for Africa, would hold the Nigerian commercial banking businesses, including the bank’s branch in New York, UBA Pensions Custodian and UBA FX Mart; UBA Africa Holdings Limited would hold and oversee all the African commercial banking businesses, excluding Nigeria, while UBA Capital Holdings Limited would hold all the group’s investments in non-commercial banking businesses.

Existing shareholders of UBA would transfer 60 per cent of their equity stake in the bank in consideration for 100 per cent ownership of UBA Holdings Plc. In consideration for divest-

ments from the share registration business and real estate business as directed by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), shareholders would receive proportionate equities in two companies- Africa Prudential Registrars Plc and Afriland Properties Plc, which would be listed on the NSE. UBA would also remain a listed entity on the NSE. The restructuring by UBA is sequel to the approvals-in-principle obtained from the CBN and Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

Under the new licensing regime of the apex bank, banks are to either divest from non-banking businesses or form a holding company structure to hold their non-banking subsidiaries.

Speaking at the court-ordered meeting, Group Managing Director, of UBA, Phillips Oduoza, said the transformation would eliminate duplication across business lines while improving overall coordination.

FGN BONDS Amount N

Rate %

M/Date

3-Year 5-Year 5-Year

35m 35m 35m

11.039 12.23 13.19

19-05-2014 18-05-2016 19-05-2016

Initial Current Quotation Price Market N8250.00 5495.33 N1000.00 N552.20

Amount

7.9-10% 10-11%

PRIMARY MARKET AUCTION (T-BILLS) Amount 30m 46.7m 50m

Rate % 10.96 9.62 12.34

Date 28-04-2011 “ 14-04-2011

GAINERS AS AT 29-12-11 SYMBOL

DANGCEM FLOURMILL GLAXOSMITH UNILEVER ZENITHBANK ETI DANGFLOUR CCNN VITAFOAM REDSTAREX WAPCO

O/PRICE

105.50 59.38 23.00 28.00 11.99 10.28 4.80 4.15 4.65 2.28 44.89

C/PRICE

CHANGE

110.77 62.34 23.90 28.50 12.40 10.50 5.00 4.35 4.84 2.39 45.00

5.27 2.96 0.90 0.50 0.41 0.22 0.20 0.20 0.19 0.11 0.11

LOSER AS AT 29-12-11 SYMBOL

NB FO OANDO ASHAKACEM IBTC SKYEBANK FIRSTBANK ETERNAOIL UBA DIAMONDBK IKEJAHOTEL

O/PRICE

104.60 12.23 21.50 11.50 8.20 3.86 9.00 2.95 2.60 2.04 1.87

C/PRICE

99.37 11.62 21.00 11.16 8.00 3.67 8.85 2.82 2.47 1.94 1.78

Amount

Offered ($) Demanded ($)

Price Loss 2754.67 447.80

INTERBANK RATES

Tenor 91-Day 182-Day 1-Year

The State said it has also experienced strong growth in its revenue potentials with its Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) and Value Added Tax (VAT) growing by a Compound Average Growth Rate (CAGR) of 23 per cent and 25 per cent respectively between 2006 and 2010. This it said is a clear manifestation of the increasing levels of economic activities within the State.

The Government has projected a further 52 per cent increase over its 2010 IGR of N5.5 billion to N8.4 billion in the 2011 fiscal year and a CAGR of 22 per cent till 2014.

The State expects to achieve this IGR growth through initiatives which facilitate the reduction of fiscal leakages, upward review of economic rates, aggressive mobilisation of taxes and introduction of electronic governance in its revenue collection activities.

A special committee comprising of senior state officials was recently commissioned to pursue this.

WHOLESALE DUTCH AUCTION SYSTEM

MANAGED FUNDS

OBB Rate Call Rate

By Tonia Osundolire

DATA BANK

Tenor

NIDF NESF

money from Lagos, into an account outside Lagos, shall bear the charges for any single transaction above the daily limit.

Umar explained that the service charge for daily withdrawals above the limit into an account shall be borne by the account holder. The apex bank said charges/fees shall apply for all transactions in Lagos, and on Lagos State based accounts, while transactions initiated out of Lagos State, and affecting a Lagosbased account shall not attract charges/fees, and shall not be counted as part of the daily cumulative amount on that account since the policy has not been activated outside Lagos.

Amount

Exchange

Sold ($)

Rate (N)

Date

450m

452.7m

450m

150.8

08-8-11

250m

313.5m

250m

150.8

03-8-11

400m

443m

400m

150.7

01-8-11

EXHANGE RATE 26-08-11 CAPITAL MARKET INDEX Currency

Year Start Offer

Current Before

C u r r e n t CUV Start After %

NGN USD

147.6000

149.7100

150.7100

-2.11

NGN GBP

239.4810

244.0123

245.6422

-2.57

NGN EUR

212.4997

207.9023

209.2910

-1.51

149.7450

154.0000

154.3000

-3.04

Bureau de Change 152.0000 (S/N)

153.0000

155.5000

-2.30

Parallel Market

154.0000

156.0000

-1.96

NSE CAP Index

NIGERIA INTER BANK (S/N)

27-10-11 N6.5236tr 20,607.37

28-10-11 N6.617tr 20,903.16

% Change -1.44% -1.44%

MEMORANDUM QUOTATIONS Name

(S/N)

153.0000

DISCOUNT WINDOW Feb. ’11

July ’11

Aug ’11

MPR

6.50%

6.50%

8.75%

Standing Lending Rate ,, Deposit Rate ,, Liquidity Ratio Cash Return Rate Inflation Rate

8.50% 4.50% 25.00% 1.00% 12.10%

8.50% 4.50% 25.00% 2.00% 12.10%

9.50% 5.50% 30.00% 2.00% 9.4%

Offer Price

Bid Price

9.17 1.00 118.85 98.43 0.76 1.04 0.88 1,642.73 8.24 1.39 1.87 7,351.90 193.00

9.08 1.00 118.69 97.65 0.73 1.04 0.87 1,635.25 7.84 1.33 1.80 7,149.37 191.08

ARM AGGRESSIVE KAKAWA GUARANTEED STANBIC IBTC GUARANTE AFRINVEST W.A. EQUITY FUND THE LOTUS CAPITAL HALAL BGL SAPPHIRE FUND BGL NUBIAN FUND NIGERIA INTERNATIONAL DEB. PARAMOUNT EQUITY FUND CONTINENTAL UNIT TRUST CENTRE-POINT UNIT TRUST STANBIC IBTC NIG EQUITY THE DISCOVERY FUND • ARM AGGRESSIVE • KAKAWA GUARANTEED

CHANGE

5.23 0.61 0.50 0.34 0.20 0.19 0.15 0.13 0.13 0.10 0.09

• STANBIC IBTC GUARANTE • AFRINVEST W.A. EQUITY FUND

NIBOR Tenor 7 Days 30 Days 60 Days 150 Days

Rate (Previous) 24 Aug, 2011 9.0417 9.6667 11.2917 12.1250

Rate (Currency) 26, Aug, 2011 10.17% 11.46% 11.96% 12.54%

Movement

OPEN BUY BACK Previous

Current

04 July, 2011

07, Aug, 2011

Bank

8.5000

8.5000

P/Court

8.0833

8.0833

Movement

56

THE NATION FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2011

THE NATION FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2011

57

NEWS Cult war looms in Edo From Osagie Otabor, Benin

T

HE clash between two rival cult groups, which has led to the death of two suspected members, in Benin, Edo State, has raised fears of a resurgence of another cult war.

It was learnt that the two victims were killed last week.

Their identities have not been revealed.

The first victim was said to have been killed in error at Ogida.

His colleagues vowed to avenge his death, which led to the death of the second victim at New Benin.

Police spokesman Peter Ogboi said the command was aware of the situation.

Ogboi said undercover agents have been deployed to flashpoints and warned that anyone caught would be treated as an enemy of the state.

The police spokesman advised parents to warn their children against involvement in cultism.

More than 15 persons were killed this year during rival cult wars in the state.

In a related development, the police are waiting for the autopsy result conducted on the body of a suspected cult leader, who died at Envoy Hotel on Boxing Day. Ogboi said the autopsy would determine their next line of action.

He said no arrest has been made in connection with the mysterious death.

The name of the deceased was given as Jorcey Okuomose. He was 44.

The late Okuomose was said to have been found in his room with no injury on his body.

Three killed in Rivers robbery Edo police presents scorecard A T

RMED robbers have killed two officials of the Rivers State Road Traffic Management Authority (TIMARIV) and a passer-by in Port Harcourt.

They were killed barely three months after the agency’s legal adviser was kidnapped.

The Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) has decried the spate of insecurity in the state.

It was gathered that the hoodlums were escaping after a robbery when stray bullets hit a passer-by on Okija Street, D-Line (Direct Main Line).

At Emekuku and Agudama streets, the robbers shot the TIMA-RIV’s officials by the side of Agudama Street, D-Line.

One of the officials died on the spot while his colleague died on the way to the hospital.

Police spokesman Ben Ugwuegbulam said N8 million was stolen from a liquor firm, Paddyman Nigeria Limited.

Ugwuegbulam said: “Yesterday at about 0800 hours, a gang of robbers attacked Paddyman Nigeria Limited, a liquor company, at No. 3, Ojoto Street, Mile 2, Port Harcourt.

“The robbers, operating in an ash Volkswagen Passat, broke into the strong room of the company and took about N8million.

“Customers were also

From Osagie Otabor, Benin

HE police in Edo State killed 63 robbery suspects and arrested 269 robbery suspects between January and December.

According to the command, 41 kidnapped victims were rescued and 193 suspects arrested in 2011.

Commissioner of Police David Omojola said 485 suspected cultists were arrested; 12 for rape and murder. He said 411 were arrested for stealing.

Omojola said the police recovered 12 military rifles with 48 rounds of live ammunition, eight English pistols, six pump action guns, 30 AK-47 rifles with 1107 rounds of live ammunition and 10 Lar rifles with 100 live ammunition.

Others were 40 locally made pistols, 130 dane guns, two bayonets, three FNC rifles and three magazines, 160 cut-to-size single/double barrel guns, 12 vehicles and 10 motorcycles.

•N8m stolen from liquor store •ACN expresses concern •Suspects paraded in Akwa Ibom From Bisi Olaniyi, Port Harcourt and Kazeem Ibrahym, Uyo

robbed. Azikiwe Police Station patrol team confronted them.

“There was an exchange of gunfire, resulting in a corporal being injured.

“The robbers managed to escape into Ada-George Road, where at Emenike Junction, they shot two TIMA-RIV recruits.”

The ACN, through its Publicity Secretary, Jerry Needam, in Port Harcourt said yesterday’s robbery has vindicated the opposition’s position that the

state was insecured.

The party said: “The inability of the Rivers State Government to provide adequate security is the main reason for the rise in insecurity.

“Government has abandoned the duty of securing life and property and is currently engaged in the murky waters of 2015 politics.”

The police in Akwa Ibom State yesterday paraded 13 kidnap and robbery suspects.

Among those paraded were a five-member rapist gang which specialises in defiling their woman cap-

tives.

Commissioner of Police Solomon Arase said the command also raided a criminal hideout at Ekom Imam Junction and recovered four vehicles.

The vehicles, according to the police boss, are one Volvo U 40 car with a fake reg, AA 883 AED, and another number, FE 704 APP, written on its glass.

Others are a Nissan Sunny AA 662 ETN; Nissan Primera AE 78 DUU and a Mitsubishi bus with the following numbers: CC 384 KSF;AH 190 KPR; XA 959 KEK; XB 104 SKP and AH 575 DBU. Arase said the command arrested some suspects during Christmas.

He listed their names as Eyo Okon, Effiong Emmanuel, Joshua Bassey and Emem Etukudo.

Items recovered include one fully loaded G3 rifle with number 120413, one locally made pistol with 50 live cartridges, one 25mp Yamaha outboard engine and a bag containing items suspected to be charms.

One of the alleged rapists, Ubong Effiong, spoke to reporters in pidgin.

His words: “I no sleep with the woman sir. Na Itoro say I be kidnapper he come carry me come here for them to beat me.

“I be truck pusher for Itam Market. I no follow sleep with the woman sir. Na Itoro for talk truth.”

Edo begins repayment of N25b bond

E

DO State Government has repaid almost N7billion of the N25 billion bond approved by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for the state earlier this year.

Governor Adams Oshiomhole announced this during an interview on the Independent Television (ITV) in Benin City.

He said: “Nobody will lend to you unless you demonstrate that you have the capacity to pay and you start paying immediately.

“So whether at the federal or state level we are the least borrowing state, and we are able to service those debts and the money we owe we are paying now.”

While reacting to the Central Bank’s statement that the state was broke, Oshiomhole said the state is better off than the Federal Government because it has been able to implement the minimum wage for workers which the Federal Government is yet to do.

“For every one naira Edo State has, we spend about 60 per cent on capital projects and 20 percent on recurrent.

At the federal level, they spend 80 per cent on recurrent and 20 per cent, which is borrowed, on capital.

“So if Edo State is broke, the Federal Government is already finished,” he noted

Akpabio warns communities From Kazeem Ibrahym, Uyo

THE Akwa Ibom State Government has threatened to stop work in communities making unnecessary demands from contractors handling road projects.

Governor Godswill Akpabio gave the warning yesterday during the swearing-in of three permanent secretaries Nkereuwem Ekanem, Mrs. Ekaete Ekong Okon and Inemesit Moses Akabom.

Akpabio directed the Commissioner for Works, Don Etim, to withdraw contractors from such erring communities.

The governor said the state has built more than 260 roads in the state.

Akpabio said road projects are ongoing in Mkpat Enin.

He decried the attitude of youths in the area who demand sand and other items from the contractors.

“That means that you don’t want development, because if you want it, you have to give us an opportunity to develop your area.

“We have so many impediments from Mkpat Enin and we don’t know why it should be so.

“Mkpat Enin roads must be of Akwa Ibom standard.

“So you have to give us an opportunity to give you good roads that would last. “ Any community that becomes a barrier, we would stop work immediately because there are many communities that are looking for development,”the governor said.

Uduaghan advises youths

• Director-General, Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Ms. Aruama Oteh flanked by Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi (right) and Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor Sanusi Lamido Sanusi at a special recognition for them by the Amaokwe Item Community in Bende Local Government of Abia State...yesterday

Ex-Rivers governors back removal of fuel subsidy

D

ESPITE the widespread resistance to the removal of fuel subsidy, two former governors of old Rivers State have spoken in support of the deregulation of the downstream sector.

The first Military Governor , King Alfred DieteSpiff and former Governor Rufus Ada-George said they were backing the removal of fuel subsidy

From Clarice Azuatalam, Port Harcourt

because it would help to checkmate those who feed fat on the proceeds from petroleum products.

Diete- Spiff and AdaGeorge spoke in Port Harcourt at the Silver Jubilee anniversary of Rivbond Club, a socio-political organisation in Rivers and Bayelsa states.

Addressing members of the club, Diete- Spiff, who is also the Amayanabo of Twon Brass in Bayelsa State, said the deregulation was over due and its implementation would check the excesses of a cartel that has been holding everybody to ransom.

He said the fuel subsidy only favours the rich, noting that if it is re-

moved, the benefits would spread to the citizenry.

Ada-George also shared the same views but appealed for understanding from Nigerians on the deregulation policy.

He urged members of Rivbond Club to monitor the behaviour of the younger ones and stressed the need to inculcate in them the virtues of hard work.

DELTA State Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan yesterday said Nigeria’s greatness would depend on youths who are prepared to be selfreliant.

He spoke at the presentation of awards to 200 participants at the Third Shell/Delta State Government Livewire programme.

The governor said any country with a youth population dependent on others would not make progress in the 21st century.

Speaking through Deputy Governor Amos Utuama, Uduaghan said: “The future of our great nation and indeed, our state depends on youths who are hard working, painstaking, innovative and ready to be self-reliant.”

He noted that poverty alleviation programmes provide for the younger ones to be engaged in viable business ventures which would help them achieve their set targets.

THE NATION FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2011

58

NEWS Orji’s wife donates to widow

SSANU threatens strike From Bisi Oladele, Ibadan

THE University of Ibadan branch of the Senior Staff Association of Nigeria Universities (SSANU) yesterday gave the Federal Government an 11-day ultimatum to implement the 2009 agreement or face an indefinite strike.

The union issued the ultimatum after its meeting earlier in the day.

The Chairman, Jonathan Omolona, said the union would be patient with the Federal Government till January 8 being the date given by the government to implement the agreement.

Omolona accused the Federal Government of insincerity, adding that members of the National Assembly went on a recess after the bill had scaled through first and second reading.

He noted that the development was against the spirit of the 2009 agreement.

‘Past leaders played politics with economy’ From Gbenga Omokhunu, Abuja

THE Minister of Information, Labaran Maku, yesterday said President Goodluck Jonathan is not ready to play politics with the economy like his predecessors did.

Past leaders, Maku said, lied to Nigerians.

His words: “It is painful but we must say the truth.

“If Nigeria must develop, the minister said, leaders must not think in the way of the past.”

Speaking in Abuja at the 2011 ministerial press briefing of the Ministry of Science and Technology, Maku said the Federal Government is running the economy as: “if there is no tomorrow.”

He warned that if the economy crashes, workers would suffer , adding that the removal of fuel subsidy is the best for Nigeria in the present situation.

Maku said: “In Nigeria, we are emphasising the wrong thing.

“When we talk about deregulation we want an economic policy that will bring development and new technology.

“If Nigeria wants to develop we cannot think the way we use to think in the past. That is the argument of Mr. President and those of us working with him.

“Let us make changes to save our country. You cannot take one third of our annual budget to subsidise one item in a country where factories are not working.

How can you develop?

“N1.3 trillion is one-third of the annual budget. You take it aside to subsidise one item. After setting aside the one- third of your budget to subsidise one item you now go and borrow the entire capital budget from the bank.

“We are running the economy as if there is no tomorrow. We are spending money in Nigeria as if we have no children who are growing up.“

From Ugochukwu Eke, Umuahia

T

• Corp Marshall of the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) Osita Chidioka condoling with the widow of the late Biafran warlord, Dim Chukwuemeka Ojukwu, Bianca, at her Enugu home...yesterday

Two more dead in Ebonyi generator fume tragedy T

WO more persons have died after inhaling fumes from a power generator in Amata Urobo in Ohaozara Local Government of Ebonyi State.

Six were confirmed dead on Tuesday. Four others are still in the hospital. The victims were members of the same family.

It was gathered that their bodies had been deposited at a mortuary in the Presbyterian Joint Hospital.

A relative, John Onu, said: “Yesterday, the doctors

•Four victims still in hospital From Ogbonnaya Obinna, Abakaliki

came and informed us that two members of the family are dead.

“They were the mother and one of the children.

“Of the eight children in the family only one is alive.

“Their father and two

cousins are still in a critical condition.

“There is urgent need to save the surviving members of the family.

“Because it would be regrettable that a family of 12 would be wiped out just like that.”

The Chairman,

Ohaozara Local Government, Enekwachi Akpa, said the council provided an ambulance to transfer the victims to another hospital, but regretted that the management of the Presbyterian Joint Hospital insisted that they can handle the matter.

He said since two of the victims died yesterday, the council decided to transfer the victims to another hospital.

Police spokesman John Eluu confirmed the incident.

Quack health worker allegedly infects four kids with HIV F

OUR children have been infected with HIV after receiving infected blood in Bejin town, Bosso Local Government of Niger State.

It was gathered that they were allegedly transfused by a community health worker, who was treating them for malaria.

Sources said the health worker (names withheld) has been operating an illegal clinic in the area for about two years.

He ran out of luck two weeks ago when it was alleged that he transfused the children with the infected blood.

It was gathered that the victims were HIV negative, when they were admitted in the clinic.

From Jide Orintunsin, Minna

Sources said after blood was transfused to them, the situation of the children got worse.

The children were taken to another hospital where it was discovered that they have been transfused with HIV-infected blood.

Based on the findings at the new hospital, the Ministry of Health and Hospital Management Board were contacted by the State Agency for Control of HIV/ AIDS (SACA) and the community health worker was arrested.

It was also gathered that the government and the po-

lice are trying to get the source of the blood transfused.

Sources in SACA said the blood might have been donated by one of the villagers without undergoing the usual test as is the case in a normal hospital.

Confirming the development, the Commissioner for Health and Hospital Services, Yahaya Dansallawu, said his ministry has set up a committee to look into the matter.

According to him, “I have set up a committee which visited Bejin yesterday. We are awaiting the report.”

The Commissioner further said of the four chil-

dren, one of them tested positive, adding that others will soon be tested to ascertain their status.

“It was unfortunate that the child we tested so far was actually HIV-positive due to the blood transfusion.”

Dansallawu said while the report of the committee was being awaited he has directed that the illegal clinic be closed and the susapect handed over to police for prosecution.

Also confirming the arrest, police spokesman Richard Oguche said: “It is true, a suspect was arrested over transfusion of infected blood to some children.

“I will give you details about the matter later, but we are investigating the matter.”

HE Abia State government has said it would continue to support the poor, the needy, the aged and the physically challenged in the state.

The governor’s wife, Mrs. Mercy Orji, said this when she donated a three- bedroom bungalow built for an 85-year old widow, Madam Julia Nwanyiocha Ogbuekiri from Ogboko Umuana Ndume, Umuahia North Local Government.

Mrs Orji said Mama Ogbuekiri is the latest beneficiary of her office’s shelter programme.

She said the octogenarian was not related to her but she was moved to help during a funeral visit when she observed that the grandmother was living in a tent built with torn tarpaulins.

The governor’s wife appealed to individuals and corporate organisations to help in making lives meaningful and bearable for the less privilege.

Funeral for ex-journalist

V

ETERAN journalist Oladipupo Shotunde is dead. He was 80.

The late community leader was, until his death, the Asiwaju of Afowowa Sopade in Ewekoro Local Government of Ogun State.

He worked as a photo journalist with the defunct Sketch, in Ibadan, Oyo State before retiring into private business.

A statement by his son, .Seyi Shotunde, said a Christian wake will hold on January 5, at his No 196, Agura road, Kobiti, Abeokuta, home.

Interment follows after a church service at the All Saints Anglican Church, Kobiti, Abeokuta on January 6.

Entertainment of guests will hold at Owu Baptist Primary School, Totoro, Abeokuta.

•The late Oladipo

End-of-the year thanksgiving at The Nation

By Mercy Michael

•Pastor Oladapo...yesterday

I

T was yet another endof-the year thanksgiving service for members of staff of Vintage Press

Limited, Publishers of The Nation yesterday.

The service was organised by the management to appreciate God for His blessings.

The Pastor in charge of Zone 9 of The Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Lagos Province 17, Pastor Nireti Oladapo, was the guest minister.

The one-hour service started at noon with songs of exhortation.

Oladapo, who spoke on ‘Thanksgiving for Increase’, laced his sermon with scrip-

tures from Psalm 103:1-5, Psalm 92:1, James 4:17, Luke 13:1-5 among others.

He said: “For him who knows it is a good thing to give thanks to God and did not do it, it is counted as a sin. However, it is not everybody that can give thanks but only those who appreciate the goodness of God in their lives”.

Making reference to the development across the country from January to the end of the year, he urged everyone to give thanks notwithstanding.

“Even in times of trouble, there is need to give thanks

because the situation could have been worse than it is, but for the grace of God,” the cleric said.

Stating reasons why the organisation and the members of staff should give thanks, the pastor said: “God desires thanks. Many of us think whatever comes our way is by chance. This is a wrong notion”.

He gave other reasons why the employees must give thanks. He said increase, expansion, public acceptance, provision and protection experienced throughout the year were enough reasons to appreci-

ate God. “From what I have observed, The Nation is the most widely read newspaper right now at least in the Southwest,” he said.

Warning that not everybody that comes to give thanks to God will be accepted, he said: “For God to accept our thanksgiving, there is the need for you to check your life as God is no respecter of man”.

The high point of the service was a prayer session for members of the Board of Directors and employees, as well as the country

59

THE NATION FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2011

NEWS Jonathan, Sambo, Fashola for Daniyan’s funeral today

Kwankwaso presents N210.3b Appropriation Bill From Kolade Adeyemi, Kano

From Mohammed Bashir, Lokoja

ANO State Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso yesterday presented the 2012 Appropriation Bill of N210,379,331,115 to the House of Assembly.

The bill, christened: Budget of Economic Restoration and Development, has a recurrent expenditure of N71,620,254,115, or 34 per cent; and capital expenditure of N138,759,077, representing 66 per cent of the budget.

The governor said the 2012 budget is higher than that of the revised 2011 estimate by N86,222,374,480, or 69 per cent.

Kwankwaso said the appropriation underscores his administration’s desire to emphasise capital development to put the state back on the path of posterity.

According to him, the recurrent revenue is estimated at N127,257,034,288, saying: “It consists of N39,860,422,861 Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) and N87,396,611,427 revenues from the Federation Account.

The sector by sector allocations show that Education gets the lion’s share of N35 billion. From this, Kwankwaso said N2 billion would be for general rehabilitation and renovation of existing structures; purchase of furniture and intructural materials; N1.8 billion for the establishment of additional tertiary institutions, such as School of Remedial and Basic Studies; Quaranic and Western Education Institute; as well as the Nortwest University and Public Health University.

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Shettima proposes N130.6b budget

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ORNO State Governor Kashim Shettima yesterday presented an Appropriation Bill of N130.6 billion to the House of Assembly for the 2012 fiscal year.

The governor christened the appropriation Budget of Infrastructural Development and Economic Transformation.

He said that it comprises a recurrent expenditure of N43.7 billion and a total capital expenditure of N86.9 billion.

Shettima said the budget would be financed from statutory allocation of N84.3 billion and Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) of N29 billion.

He added that the capital receipts are estimated at N86.9 billion with a recurrent surplus of N69.5 billion.

The Ministry of Works got the highest share with N20.9 billion, followed by that of

From Joseph Abiodun, Maiduguri

Health, with N14.7 billion.

The government allocated N14.3 billion to the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning got N9.4 billion.

According to him, N8.1 billion was allocated to the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural development.

Shettima noted that the budget would lay a solid foundation for the infrastructural needs of the state and improve the economy for sustainable development.

He urged security operatives to be more alert to their responsibilities.

The Speaker Goni Ali Modu promised that the Assembly will pass the bill early to enable the governor develop the state.

Gombe gets N94b Budget of Reality

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OMBE State Governor Ibrahim Hassan Dankwambo ment presented a N93.385 billion budget estimate for the 2012 fiscal year to the House of Assembly.

The governor said N55.120 billion is for capital expenditure and N38.364 billion for recurrent expenditure.

The budget, which is expected to be financed with N50.037 billion, has capital receipts of N54.023 billion.

Road construction, under the Ministry of Works, gets the largest share of N15.350billion, representing 28per cent of the total budget.

The N12.155billion, or 22.17 per cent, allocated to the Education sector, the governor said, would reposition primary and post-primary schools as well as tertiary education in Gombe.

The Health sector has N3.286 billion, being 5.99per cent of the budget’s total.

Dankwambo said his administration would improve health care delivery through the construction, equipping and renovation of health facilities.

Agriculture has N2.762billion, which would be spent on the timely procurement and distribution of fertilisers to farmers and the implementation of FADAMA III project, among others.

Benue Carnival causes traffic snarl

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HERE was a traffic gridlock in Makurdi metropolis yesterday for several hours as the residents took over the streets for this year’s Benue Youth Cultural Carnival.

The yearly event, which is organised by the Office of the Special Assistant to the Governor on Youth Affairs, is sponsored by the Benue State Government.

There was a colourful parade of youths on the streets of Makurdi, the state capital.

They adorned assorted traditional attires, which reflected the various cultural backgrounds of the diverse ethnic groups in the state.

The traffic lull affected the Wurukum roundabout with vehicles plying the MakurdiEnugu and Makurdi-Lafia routes held up for hours.

The cultural procession went round major streets of the capital and many residents trooped out to watch the youths in their colourful costumes.

Lagos lawmakers okay N491b budget

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AGOS lawmakers last night passed a N491.827 billion Appropriation Bill for next year.

The bill is N6 billion higher than the initial N485.292 billion proposal sent to the House by Governor Babatunde Fashola on November 14.

It comprises N233.506 billion recurrent and N258.321 billion capital expenditure.

The governor had returned to the House with a request for the approval of additional N6 billion to host the National Sports Festival and finance the Isale Gangan development project.

• Jigawa State Governor Sule Lamido (left) with the emergent leader of re-united Izzala Islamic sect at their first post-reconciliation national prayer in Dutse...on Christmas Day

RESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan, Vice President Namadi Sambo and Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola (SAN) are among dignitaries expected today at the funeral of former Minister of National Planning, Chief Silas Bamidele Daniyan.

Others include Senate President David Mark; House of Representative Speaker Aminu Waziri Tambuwal; Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) Senator Pius Anyim Pius; Governors Abdulfatah Ahmed (Kwara); Babangida Aliyu (Niger); and Patrick Yakowa (Kaduna).

The Chairman, Sub-Committee on Communication and Logistics for the funeral, Chief Tunde Olusule said national, zonal and state leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) will attend the ceremony.

15 injured in Gombe explosions

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N explosion in Gombe, the capital of Gombe State, on Wednesday night injured 15 people. No group has claimed responsibility.

The explosion occurred at a hotel located in the outskirts of the state capital.

The Manager of the hotel, Mr Ojiego Nelson, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Gombe yesterday that three persons came to the hotel at about 10.13pm on Wednesday to detonate a device.

Nelson said he was at the gate of the hotel when the men, who were allegedly carrying guns, started “manhandling” the security man.

He said when he asked what was happening, they started shooting sporadically.

Nelson said: “Our customers and everybody started running helter-skelter and

the one with two gas cylinders in his hands threw them into our reception.

“He threw one into the reception and the other under the cars parked by our guests in the hotel.

“The one thrown into the reception exploded and damaged the building. So, we just managed to escape through the back fence.”

The hotel manager said the customers vacated their rooms following the incident.

He said the incident was reported to the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in Tumfure, Mr Hassan Bappa, who came to the scene with his men.

Bappa told NAN that he deployed his men to the scene when the matter was reported to him, adding that it was unfortunate the gunmen had escaped before the police arrived.

Bappa said there was no casuality and that nothing was

stolen from the hotel.

“We are waiting for bomb experts to come and remove the relics from the scene of the incident,” he said.

He said no arrest has been made but added that investigations were ongoing.

There is tension in Gombe following the detonation of an improvised explosive device (IED) at a relaxation spot called Tunfure Resort in the outskirts of the capital town on Wednesday night.

Nelson said the incident occurred at 10:15pm with 15 people injured in the melee.

He said two of the six assailants started shooting.

Nelson said: “It was around 16 minutes after 10pm. I was very close to the gate when some three armed men walked in and were asking the security man at the gate to show them the manager.

“While interrogating the security man, the assailants

also started manhandling him and beating him up.

When I wanted to intervene, they pointed an AK 47 with police coloured magazine and shot. But I don’t know how I escaped unhurt except for this wound on my forehead and this dislocation on my arm.

“I saw a refrigerator cylinder with them also. I thought they were policemen who normally come for patrol. I saw police colour on the cartridge of their AK 47. I was, however, surprised when I wanted to know why they were beating up my security man.”

Police spokesman Ahmed K Muhammad, an Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP), confirmed the incident.

He said the police were waiting for bomb experts from Yola to remove the remnants of the explosives.

al-Makura presents N97b budget estimate

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ASARAWA State Governor Tanko AlMakura yesterday presented N97,566,011,955 Appropriation Bill to the House of Assembly for consideration and approval for next year.

The governor told the Assembly that over N42,334,915,904, representing 43.39 per cent of the budget, is for Recurrent Expenditure, while 55,231,096,051.08 is for capital expenditure.

Next year’s budget surpasses this year’s by over N15 billion.

Former Governor Aliyu Akwe Doma had presented N69,017,574.825 towards the end of his tenure. Al-Makura increased this by N12,488,518.328 through a Supplementary Budget in the last quarter of this year. This brought the budget’s total to N81,506,093,153.

Allocations to the ministries in next year’s appropriation show that the Education sector gets the lion’s share with N14billion; Housing and Urban Development, N13billion; and Works and Housing, N12.4billion.

The breakdown of other

•Governor summoned over alleged Constitutional breach From Johnny Danjuma, Lafia

ministries’ allocations shows that Health gets N5.5 billion; Agriculture, N2.3billion; Water Supply, N1billion; Land, Survey and Town Planning, N2.6billion; Water Resources and Rural Development, N2.4billion; Judiciary, N3.8billion; Sports and Youth Development, N3.1billion; and Legislature, N3.2billion.

The Appropriation, which the governor tagged: Budget of Redemption, is expected to focus on the completion of all projects initiated by his administration as well as those abandoned by previous governments. He said it would focus on projects considered essential for the socio-economic development of our state.

Al-Makura said his administration would ensure an improvement in the Internal Revenue Generation (IRG) and improve on existing revenue collection machinery with the commencement of new projects that have a direct bearing on the well-being of the residents.

The governor added that his administration would adhere to the principle of due process in applying and utilising the state’s limited resources for promoting an enterprising society.

According to him, job creation, youth employment as well as the computerisation of land administration and management would be enhanced in the implementation of next year’s budget.

The House of Assembly yesterday summoned the governor over his deployment of Directors of Personnel Management to the Local Government Service Commission and the replacement with their deputies.

The House summoned him to appear before it today.

Al-Makura is also expected to explain the sacking of about 20 Permanent Secretaries as well as the replacement of the Managing Director of the Urban Development Board, who resigned recently without recourse to the Assembly.

A letter from the Office of the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Hamza Elayo,

on the acceptance of the Urban Management Board chief’s resignation letter and his replacement, said: “The Governor of Nasarawa State has approved the voluntary resignation of Ja’afaru Ango as the Managing Director of Nasarawa State Urban Development Board (NUDB) with immediate effect and wishes him success in his feature endeavour”.

It added: “Consequently, the governor has approved the appointment of Edward Salau Daudu to cover the duty of the Mangaing Director of the NSUDB with immediate effect.”

After receiving the 2012 Appropriation Bill from the governor, the lawmakers continued deliberation on his alleged breaches of the constitution.

They noted that sacking the public officials without recourse to the Assembly was a violation of the Constitution.

Despite the plea by Minority Leader Tanko Maikatako to allow the governor appear in an executive session, the other lawmakers refused to back down.

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THE NATION FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2011

THE NATION FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2011

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THE NATION FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2011

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FOREIGN NEWS

Govt forces kill protesters in Syria

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YRIAN security forces opened fire yesterday on tens of thousands protesting outside a mosque in a Damascus suburb, close to a municipal building that members of the Arab League monitoring mission were visiting. Activists said at least four people were killed in the shooting.

The ongoing violence, and new questions about the human rights record of the head of the Arab League monitors, are reinforcing

•Demand removal o chief observer the opposition’s view that Syria’s limited cooperation with the observers is nothing more than a farce for President Bashar Assad’s regime to buy time and forestall more international condemnation and sanctions.

Rami Abdul-Rahman, head of the British-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, said about 20,000 people were protesting outside the Grand Mosque in the Damascus

suburb of Douma when troops opened fire. Some Arab League monitors were visiting a municipal building close to the mosque, he said.

The Observatory said a total of 16 people have been shot by security forces and killed so far yesterday, most of them in several suburbs of Damascus. The Local Coordination Committees, another activist group, said 28 people were killed. The differing death tolls could not be immediately reconciled as Syria bans most foreign journalists and keeps tight restrictions on the local media.

Leading opposition members have called on the Cairo-based Arab League to remove the Sudanese head of the monitoring mission to Syria because he was a senior official in the “oppressive regime” of President Omar al-Bashir, who is under an interna-

tional arrest warrant on charges of committing genocide in Darfur.

The 60 Arab League monitors who began work Tuesday are the first Syria has allowed in during the ninemonth anti-government uprising. They are supposed to be ensuring the regime is complying with terms of the Arab League plan to end a crackdown the United Nations says has killed more than 5,000 people since March.

The head of the mission, Lt. Gen. Mohamed Ahmed Mustafa al-Dabi, is a longtime loyalist of al-Bashir and once served as his head of Sudanese military intelligence.

Amnesty International said under al-Dabi’s command, military intelligence in the early 1990s “was responsible for the arbitrary arrest and detention, enforced disappearance, and torture or other ill-treatment of numerous people in Sudan.”

Public Notice Diocese of Badagry Anglican Communion Notice is hereby given to the general public that the above name church/ diocese has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission, Abuja for registration under Part C of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, CAP C20, 1990 Laws of the federation.

TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Rt. Revd. Babatunde Joseph Adeyemi 2. Hon. Justice Solomon Olusola Hunponu-wusu 3. Mrs. Wevo Iyabo Ogbechie AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE: 1. To pursue with vigour, the spread of the gospel of Christ, thereby leading to winning of more souls and planting of more churches within the diocese.

2. To make our worship mission oriented, to teach and preach the word of God in all churches thereby creating worshippers fit for heaven 3. To help members understand the Anglican doctrine and heritage as contained in the 39 articles of the Anglican Church.

Any objection to the registration should be forwarded to the RegistrarGeneral, Corporate Affairs Commission Plot 420, Tigris Crescent, Off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, P.M.B 198, Maitama, Abuja within 28 (twenty eight days) from the date of this publication.

Signed: Wale Olanrewaju Esq. F.O. Shofolawe-Bakare & Co. Legal Adviser 08054957619

Egypt’s police raid offices of human rights groups in Cairo

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GYPTIAN security forces have launched raids on a series of high-profile human rights and pro-democracy organisations based in Cairo, including the United States National Democratic Institute, founded by former secretary of state Madeleine Albright, and the International Republican Institute.

During the raids riot police confined staff to their offices and forbid them from making phone calls.

About half a dozen Egyptian and international groups were targeted as part of a widespread investigation into foreign funding of Egyptian civic society groups.

The raids on NDI and IRI, however, both of which have received US state department funding for their operations, is likely to cause friction with the US government, which underwrites military aid to Egypt to the sum of $1.3bn annually.

In recent months, the Supreme Council of the Armed Forces has accused local nongovernmental organisations of receiving money from abroad, and has argued that the recent unrest in the coun-

try is by “foreign hands”.

Hana el-Hattab, an NDI staffer trapped inside her office, tweeted: “We’re literally locked in. I really have no idea why they are holding us inside and confiscating our personal laptops.” In other tweets she wrote: “I was on the balcony, dude with machine gun came up and told us to go in and locked it ... we asked if they had a search warrant,they said the person who issues warrants is in building &doesn’t need to issue one for himself.

They’re even taking history books from people’s bags.”

Heba Morayef, who works with Human Rights Watch in Egypt, said she had received a message from an NDI staffer confirming they had been confined inside their offices by riot police. Images posted on Twitter showed armed police in body armour stationed outside.

Security forces, both uniformed and plainclothes, forced their way into the offices where employees were informed that they were under investigation by the public prosecutor. According to witnesses, laptops and other documents were also seized during the raids.

Senegalese opposition leader Barthelemy Dias faces murder

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LEADING member of Senegal’s opposition Socialist Party has been arrested on murder charges after a man was shot dead during recent political clashes, his lawyers say.

Barthelemy Dias says he fired his guns in self-defence after his office was attacked by ruling party activists.

The death has raised tension ahead of February’s presidential election.

Senegal is normally seen as one of West Africa’s most stable and democratic countries.

It is the only country in the region never to have experienced a military coup.

Mr Dias, PS youth leader and mayor of a district in the capital, Dakar, says his town hall came under attack from supporters of President Abdoulaye Wade’s Senegalese Democratic Party (PDS) on 22 December.

Video of him repeatedly firing two pistols at the attackers has been widely aired in the Senegalese media.

“Barthelemy Dias has been remanded in custody on three charges: Murder; assault and battery, and illegal possession of firearms,” his lawyer El Hadj Diouf said, Reuters news agency reports.

One of Mr Dias’ bodyguards has also been detained, the lawyer said.

A recent upsurge in violence in the southern Casamance area has also been linked to the forthcoming elections.

On Wednesday, the army confirmed that five soldiers had been kidnapped by the region’s MFDC rebels, according to the AFP news agency.

The Socialist Party (PS) governed from independence in 1960 until Abdoulaye Wade won elections in 2000.

North Korea hails Kim Jong-un

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ORTH Korea has hailed late leader Kim Jong-il’s son, Kim Jong-un, as “supreme leader of the party, state and army”.

Mr Kim took centre stage at a memorial service in Pyongyang’s main square a day after his father’s funeral.

Kim Yong-nam, formally the number two leader, told a million-strong crowd their sorrow would be turned into strength “1,000 times greater under the leadership of comrade Kim Jong-un”.

The memorial event appeared to be the Kim dynasty’s unofficial handover of power, says the BBC’s Lucy Williamson in neighbouring South Korea.

A three-minute silence was also held, after which trains and ships throughout the country sounded their horns.

Kim Jong-il died of a heart attack on 17 December, aged 69, state media said. He had ruled North Korea since the death of his father Kim Il-sung in 1994.

“Respected Comrade Kim Jong-un is our party, military and country’s supreme leader who inherits great comrade Kim Jong-il’s ideology, leadership, character, virtues, grit and courage,” Kim Yong-nam told the massive crowd gathered in Kim Il-sung square.

“The fact that he completely resolved the succession matter is Great Comrade Kim Jong-il’s most noble achievement.”

THE NATION FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2011

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SPORT EXTRA

Obagoal drops diamond ear rings N IGERIAN striker Obafemi Martins has revealed to MTNFootball.com he is willing to drop his expensive diamond ear rings so as to play for the Super Eagles under Stephen Keshi.

New Eagles’ coach Keshi has ordered national team players to desist from wearing ear rings while in his camp.

And Martins has now said he does not see anything wrong with the order by the Eagles coach.

“It’s not a big deal. I have not been communicated officially on this but if this were the case, it won’t be a problem because I don’t even wear my ear rings

to play football or even sleep,” Martins offered.

MTNFootball.com then asked what type of ear rings he wears on both ears and how much they would have set him back.

“They are diamonds and they cost a lot of money,” the Rubin Kazan of Russia striker replied.

Other ear ring-wearing Nigerian international stars include skipper Joseph Yobo, Dele Adeleye, Victor Anichebe, Osaze Odemwingie and Brown Ideye.

Nigeria begins its campaign for a place at the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations in Kigali,

Rwanda, on February 29.

Statistically the first name Keshi should have on his team list ought to be ‘Obagoal’ as he is the only Nigeria star to have scored against The Amavubis of Rwanda at full international level.

In 2004, he grabbed a brace against them in his competitive debut in Abuja and then grabbed an all-important equaliser in the reverse fixture several months later.

On Thursday, Martins set the

ball rolling on his foundation to help the less privileged in Nigeria with a visit to the SOS Childrens’ Home in Isolo, Lagos.

“I’m excited to touch lives and I have since I started professional football about 10 years ago helped my family, friends and people on the streets,” said Martins, who donated food items to the motherless home and enjoyed a kick about game of football with some of the children.

•Obafemi Martins

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Keshi pushes local players' UPER Eagles Head slot to eight Coach, Stephen

Okechukwu Chinedu Keshi has changed his mind about the number of homebased players he would like to take to Rwanda for the Nations Cup qualifier by February 29.

Before now Keshi had said he would like to take a maximum of five players and a minimum of three to the battle of Kigali, but after Thursday morning training, he told the players that he now wants to take a minimum of 8 local players and a maximum of 10 to Rwanda for the qualifiers.

Keshi is apparently taking positives from the way the players played against

Ranchers Bees of Kaduna on Wednesday and an Abuja selected side the day before.

But again, there is a caveat and that is that the players must give him reasons to take as many players as possible to Kigali through their level of concentration and professional attitude.

“This is the only job we know how to do and we must do it very well and show that we are a class above Rwanda , because I want to go there with players who can help me pick the three points and I believe those players are here but you must prove it at training and during friendly games”.

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FTER playing three friendlies, two with Abuja based sides and the other with Ranchers Bees, officials of the Super Eagles have lined up further friendly games ahead of their likely international friendly games and the Nations Cup qualifier against Rwanda .

Head Coach, Stephen Keshi, revealed that the team will in the first week of January play Lobi Stars of Makurdi and Rising Stars of Akure in

quick succession.

The games are designed to further toughen the national team and build confidence in the players as the Nations Cup and World Cup qualifiers are set to commence.

Team Secretary, Dayo Enebi was busy working out the schedule of the games on Thursday, even as more talented players are craving for action in the national team going by the deluge of requests that comes to Keshi’s table on a daily basis.

Super 8 Champions, Go-Round FC get N1m from club owner

2013 NTIONS CUP QUALIFIERS

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Lobi, Rising Stars for Eagles friendly

Heartland wins Super Cup

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IGERIA Cup winners Heartland pipped NPL champions Dolphin to win this year’s Nigeria Super Cup in Kaduna.

The cup winner was by experienced striker Chibuzor Ozurumba in the 28th minute.

Dolphin paid dearly for being very wasteful in front of goal.

Heartland defeated regional rivals Enyimba to the 2011 Federation Cup in September,

while Dolphin annexed their third league title in a close finish ahead of Sunshine Stars.

Both teams did not line up their full-strength sides as their top stars are still away on holidays after hectic final weeks of the past season.

The new NPL season is expected to kick off on January 7 with a star match between champions Dolphin and Sunshine Stars in Port Harcourt.

HE Champions of the just concluded Super 8 tournament held in Kaduna, National division one rookies, GoRound Football Club of Omoku in Rivers state got a cash reward of one million naira from Club President, Felix Obuah on Thursday afternoon.

In addition to the reward also came instant payment of the players' December salaries for bringing such glory to Omoku and Rivers state at large.

During the occassion, Chief Felix Obuah also unveiled the club's new jerseys customized for the new Pro League season.

He went on to charge the club to gain promotion to the Premier League in the on coming season and get

Florence Nkem Israel Port Harcourt two week Europe trip.

He also promised to complete works at the club's private stadium in Omoku by the first Quarter of 2012 to enable the clubs use it for their home matches before the end of the new Pro Leagueseason.

Go-Round FC gained promotion to the National division one side last season and in their first major competition at the level defeated Gray International of Ede in Osun state by three goals to nothing to emerge the Super 8 champions.

The club's Esor Nelson also emerged winner of the MVP award during the tournament.

Tomorrow in THE NATION

www.thenationonlineng.net

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2011 TRUTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM

VOL. 7 NO.1990

‘Surely, God did not send the Madalla suicide bomber, whatever his faith, on errand. He was not a religionist but a man of terror who had no place in His heavenly glories. He couldn't have been a Muslim because peace was far from his warped mind in unleashing that unprovoked attack.’

YOMI ODUNUGA

COMMENT & DEB ATE EBA

OPEN FORUM

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HE warning signs are familiar. An armed group begins by imposing the strictures of Islamic sharia on a Muslim population, using first moral persuasion and then actual violence. Having secured its hold over a region where central government has little control, it broadens its aims and resolves to take on “enemies of Islam” wherever they may be found. What had been a local security problem explodes into an international threat.

So it was with the Taliban in the borderlands of Afghanistan and Pakistan – and so it may be with the radical Islamists of Nigeria. For the second Christmas Day in a row, a group known as “Boko Haram” has carried out bomb attacks on Christian churches, claiming dozens of lives in a country where religious strife poses a genuine threat to the survival of the state.

Boko Haram was born in northern Nigeria, a vast region bordering the approaches to the Sahara where Islamic radicalism has been gaining ground for generations. Since 1999, nine northern states have adopted sharia as the basis of their criminal and civil law, as well as parts of three more.

In practice, this has made less difference than might be thought. With typical Nigerian pragmatism, the authorities have generally chosen to tread carefully when enforcing the full rigour of sharia: the kind of executions that were commonplace in Taliban-ruled Afghanistan – and still are in Saudi Arabia – have been rare. As elsewhere in the Muslim world, faith has been subtly moulded to fit local traditions.

None the less, critics always warned that opening the way for sharia, which offends the secular spirit of Nigeria’s constitution, would simply encourage more radical demands. So it has proved. Boko Haram emerged in 2002 with the aim of imposing the strictest interpretation of sharia first in the North, and then the entire country. Its initial targets were Nigerian Christians, along with moderate Muslims. Moving from its heartland in Borno state, in the far Northeast, it joined the underworld of armed groups and criminal gangs spreading across the most populous country in Africa. In the process, it trod the familiar path of becoming steadily more extreme, soon labelling the Nigerian state an “enemy of Islam” and broadening its list of targets accordingly. In June, it bombed the federal police headquarters in the capital, Abuja.

The next big attack provided the clearest

By

DAVID BLAIR

Does Boko Haram have the West in its sights?

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The danger is that Boko Haram will continue to draw strength from all the factors that combine to cripple Nigeria: astonishing levels of corruption, the constant misuse of the country’s oil wealth and an everwidening gap between a venal elite and the impoverished majority • President Goodluck Jonathan

possible warning that Boko Haram had evolved into a genuinely international threat. In August, it dispatched a suicide bomber to the United Nations offices in Abuja, killing at least 21 people. A spokesman sought to justify the bloodshed in terms that could have been used by alQaeda itself: he denounced the UN as a tool of Western influence and warned that it would be “one of our prime targets”.

This episode had striking parallels with an earlier event on the other side of the Sa-

RIPPLES

HARDBALL

•Culled from The Telegraph

•Segun Gbadegesin returns next year

•Hardball is not the opinion of the columnist featured above

What next for Jonathan’s doomsayers?

NIGERIA STILL VIABLE FOR BUSINESS – ADEOLA

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Yes.. GENERATOR BUSINESS!

’

hara. In 2006, Algerian Islamists, having lost the country’s civil war, allied with Osama bin Laden to become “al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb” (AQIM), warning that they would strike against Western interests wherever they were found. They made their new purpose abundantly clear by launching a suicide attack on the UN headquarters in Algiers in December 2007.

Key figures in Boko Haram are understood to have met AQIM, which has a presence in neighbouring Niger. The danger, therefore,

is that it has become the latest – if unannounced – member of the al-Qaeda franchise, focusing on Western targets not only in Africa, but further afield. If so, Britain would almost certainly feature on its hit list. At least 150,000 Nigerians are thought to live here, raising the possibility that cells loyal to Boko Haram could be infiltrated into the country. A group that began operating in the remote city of Maiduguri, near the border between Nigeria and Chad, could evolve into a threat to British security, too.

There is nothing inevitable about this.

While al-Qaeda did manage to extend its reach from the North-west frontier of Pakistan to the streets of London, it had key advantages that Boko Haram lacks. First, the British population of Pakistani origin is perhaps 10 times greater. Second, the determination of the Pakistani state to combat al-Qaeda’s brand of pitiless nihilism was always open to question – to put it mildly.

Nigeria’s government, by contrast, knows full well that religious extremism could tear the country apart. Christians and Muslims take a roughly equal share of the 170 million population, and attacks by one religion against the other have a history of triggering bloody cycles of retaliation and revenge. While security agencies may need to improve their ability to tackle Boko Haram, they do not lack the resolve.

Already, the group’s founding leader and hundreds of its followers have been killed in clashes with security forces.

The danger is that Boko Haram will continue to draw strength from all the factors that combine to cripple Nigeria: astonishing levels of corruption, the constant misuse of the country’s oil wealth and an everwidening gap between a venal elite and the impoverished majority. Just as the largely Christian youth of southern Nigeria join militias who kidnap oil workers, supposedly to win a fairer share of their country’s natural wealth, so northern Muslims will be tempted by an armed group that claims to be fighting a corrupt and predatory government. And in this interdependent world, Nigeria’s domestic problems could soon be ours as well.

OR the past few weeks, notable personalities in President Goodluck Jonathan’s economic team have been predicting doom for both the economy and country if their economic panacea of subsidy removal is spurned. At the Town Hall Meeting on fuel subsidy organised by Newspaper Proprietors Association of Nigeria (NPAN) in Lagos, the troika of Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Diezani Alsion-Madueke and Sanusi Lamido Sanusi once again reiterated their conviction that the economy would collapse if the country failed to deregulate the downstream sector of the oil industry.

This time, they were joined by Governor Adams Oshiomhole of Edo State who also said the economy would crash if we did not take the unpleasant measure of removing fuel subsidy. Of course, it does not need restating that Jonathan himself is the chief town crier of the economic collapse idea.

It is not known what percentage of Jonathan’s cabinet is convinced we faced extinction if we kept subsidy. Governors, we are told, have endorsed subsidy removal.

Notwithstanding, they are hedging their bets. They give the distinct impression that subsidy removal would make more money available to meet both bloated recurrent and depressed capital expenses. At the same time,

they seem wary of embracing the measure wholeheartedly so as not to sound too enthusiastic about a policy of doubtful usefulness – a policy that is potentially dangerous for any elected official. Perhaps they want to leave themselves an escape window in case things turn nasty.

The Jonathan government has given no indication it has an Option B if the fuel subsidy removal plan is defeated in the National Assembly and scorned by the public. Two reasons account for this straitjacket. One is that Jonathan himself has not been able to give deep thoughts to the options he faces in remoulding the Nigerian economy and society. The vacuum his lack of contemplation creates has been filled by the policy wonks in his administration, chiefly Okonjo-Iweala and Sanusi. The second is that the leading figures in Jonathan’s economic team have either dismissed other options outright or they have no ideas what other options are available on account of their peculiar training and work experience.

Whatever the case, here we are today with only one option, and with Jonathan’s key experts predicting collapse, crash, disaster and catastrophe. They will, therefore, do everything to get the country to adopt their measure.

By staking everything and their reputation on this solitary, cure-all measure, Jonathan and

his leading economic experts are saying that they are incapable of summoning the knowledge and discipline to execute any other plan that differs from their own. We hope they will have the good sense to offer their resignations if the subsidy removal measure is defeated. It is impossible to expect them to make sense of any other measure after having predicted that any other plan would bring us to complete ruination.

Doomsayers cannot be trusted not to create conditions that would justify their predictions.

The president is also not excluded from this dilemma. He has rejected any other measure and told the people who voted him into office that there was no other way. He, in fact, is the chief salesman for subsidy removal. It is, therefore, hard to see him scrambling to come up with other options if his subsidy removal plan fails to be adopted. Clearly, we are on the threshold of history. If subsidy is retained, there will be trouble because the managers of our economy have neither any idea left nor allowed themselves any elbow room to change tack. And if subsidy is removed at this time of instability, terrorism and protests, the president’s ingenuity to sustain himself and his economic team in office will be tasked to its elastic limit.

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