The Nation February 08, 2013

Nigeria’s widest circulating newspaper

Lagos white cap chief killed

Danger alert on Third Mainland Bridge

NEWS

Page 6

NEWS

Page 57

•Gunmen invade home at dawn

•Senate panel to probe state of bridge

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VOL. 8, NO. 2393 FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2013

TR UTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM TRUTH

CUP OF NATIONS

N150.00

•Malian keeper: we played Brazil, not Nigeria •Moses ready for final •CAF suspends ref •Dangote gives Super Eagles N130million •AND MORE ON PAGES 13,14,51&63

•Miss. Ibok Favour Asuquo, Best Gradu•Chairman Court of Governors, University & College of Medicine, Chief Obafemi Olopade; Busar, University of Lagos (UNILAG), Prof. Lateef Adekunle; Deputy Vice ating Student in the Humanities for 2011/ PHOTOS: ISAAC AYODELE 2012 with her award...yesterday.

Chancellor, Prof. Babatunde Ibitayo Alao and Vice Chancellor Prof. Rahamon Bello at the university’s convocation in Akoka...yesterday

Chime in Abuja hotel

NNPC, CBN, NIMASA, FCT, others hold back govt’s N8.8tr, says report

•Governor for Enugu today

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From Yusuf Alli, Abuja and Chris Oji, Enugu

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NUGU State Governor Sullivan Chime yesterday returned to Nigeria – after four months overseas for medical reasons.

Chime, who travelled out on September 15, last year, arrived at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja early in the morning. He did not show up in public all day.

There was also no official statement on his arrival, but he is billed to travel to Enugu from Abuja today to resume duties.

There were fire works at the Government House in Enugu Continued on page 59

•Chime

OME revenue generating agencies have shortchanged the Federal Government N8.8trillion, a House of Representatives’ report has revealed.

The agencies collectively generated N9.3trillion but remitted only N174.9b to the treasury between 2009 and last year.

Besides, the Nigerian Na-

From Victor Oluwasegun and Dele Anofi, Abuja

tional Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) and its subsidiaries generated N6.1trillion (excluding proceeds from crude oil and gas) during the period but remitted nothing to the Federal Government.

The agencies have acted contrary to the Fiscal Responsibility Act (FRA), 2007 and a 2011

Federal Ministry of Finance directive.

The FRA allows agencies to remit to the Treasury based on their annual operating surplus framework.

The Finance ministry’s directive requested them to remit 25 per cent of their gross collection to the Treasury.

Continued on page 4

2015: Senators, Reps hail move to kick PDP out Support grows for APC Buhari: we’re mobilising

S •Buhari...yesterday

UPPORT grew yesterday for the All Progressive Congress (APC) formed by opposition parties after their merger to wrest power from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in 2015.

Opposition senators and members of the House of Representatives threw their weight behind the party.

From Yusuf Alli, Abuja and Augustine Avwode

Edo State Governor Adams Oshimhole endorsed the party, saying its leaders must be ready to make sacrifices to ensure SEE ALSO that it becomes PAGES 2&3 formidable.

Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) leader Gen. Muhammadu Buhari said the CPC would mobilise Nigerians to unseat the PDP in 2015.

CPC, along with Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP) and All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA) are the fulcrum of the APC.

Chairman of the ACN’s Mobilisation and Merger Committee and former Foreign Affairs Minister Chief Tom Ikimi, who announced the name of the new party on Wednesday, said the logo and other items to identify the party would be unveiled later.

The announcement came the day afContinued on page 4

•CITYBEATS P6 •SPORT P13 •SOCIETY P25 •BRAND P29 •POLITICS P43

THE NATION FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2013

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NEWS MERGER OF PARTIES

Merger is a national •PDP: we’re the party to beat

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•Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola (third right), Commissioner for Regional Integration and Special Duties, Mr. Bashiru Ajibola (second right) and Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Mr. Wale Adedoyin, inspecting the exhibition stand at the Southwest Grassroots Business & Investment Forum Expo at the Center for Black Culture & International Understanding in Osogbo...yesterday.

MORE PHOTOGRAPHS ON PAGE 5 •Oyo State Governor Abiola Ajimobi (right) his wife, Florence (middle) and the Chief Medical Director (CMD), University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan at the inauguration of the Florence Ajimobi Alaanu House, dedicated to the memory of the governor, the late Alhaja Abeje Ajimobi, at UCH...yesterday

PPOSITION Senators yesterday threw their weight behind the formation of the All Progressives Congress (PAC) by four major political parties in the country.

The senators on the platform of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP), All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA),Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) and Democratic Peoples’ Party (DPP) announced their support for the merger arrangement at a press conference in Abuja.

Senate Minority Leader George Akume, who spoke on behalf of his colleagues, said the formation of the APC was the culmination of widespread consultations among the progressive parties in the country.

Akume said the lawmakers observed the merger is aimed at salvaging the political, social and economic situation in the country “with a view to rescue our nation from the rot and corruption bedeviling her and from the fangs of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP’s) maladministration.”

“As representatives of the people, we senators of the earlier mentioned political parties have all agreed to work enthusiastically in support of this national redemption project, which is a step in the right direction.

“We support our leaders; we applaud their wisdom and patriotism in their epochal drive to stem this declining tide; we also appreciate the courage of our governors.

“We call on all members of our parties in our senatorial districts, our political associates and followers to work assiduously to-

PDP

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HE Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) officially reacted to the formation of the All Progressives Congress (APC) by rival political parties as the opposition platform, saying it remains unshaken.

Its National Publicity Secretary, Olisa Metuh, who congratulated the collaborating parties for what he called their successful merger and formation of the APC, described the development would deepen democracy.

Metuh, whose reaction was contained in a statement, said with the formation of the APC, the PDP and indeed Nigerians expect to see robust From Onyedi Ojiabor and Gbade Ogunwale, Abuja

wards the realisation of this national redemption project. All progressive-minded Nigerians

It’s all about Nigeria, not individuals, says Oshiomhole

E •Lagos State Commissioner for the Environment Mr. Tunji Bello, flanked by the Permanent Secretary, Office of Drainage Services, Mr. Muyideen Akinsanya (left) and Director of Drainage Special Projects, Mrs Akinwunmi Olubukola after inspecting ongoing projects at Kosofe/Somolu Local Govermnet Areas....yesterday.

• Spokesman of the Joint Task Force (JTF) Lt-Col. Sagir Musa presenting a T-shirt On Peace to t District Head at a Town Hall meeting in Maiduguri ...yesterday. On the right is the Deputy Director, Civil and Military Relations, Defence Headquarters, Air Commodore Ademola Onitiju, .

DO State Governor Adams Oshiomhole yesterday urged leaders of the parties involved in the merger deal to let go their personal aspirations in the interest of the nation and for the newly formed All Progressives Congress (APC) to work.

He spoke while hosting the former presidential candidate of the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP) and former governor of Kano State, Mallam Ibrahim Shekarau, who led a delegation of the ANPP to the Government House.

Oshiomhole said: “All of us as leaders and followers should recognise that for a merger to be fruitful, a level of sacrifices will be required and everyone will be required to moderate his aspiration and people must be ready to submit their personal interest to bigger national interest.

“I have no doubt that all those involved in the process recognise that these are the irreducible minimum and we are all determined to make those sacrifices.

“At the end of the day, it is all about Nigeria, not about individuals or party; it’s about giving our people an alternative base to choose from; that the electorate has the power to reward or sanction and those who wish to be in power

have to listen to the yearnings of the electorate.

“It is healthy, having recognised that we all accept there is no better alternative than democracy. And the best evidence that democracy works is when people are able to choose from one political party or the other so that they can compare and contrast.”

According to Oshiomhole, in matured democracies all over the world where governance has changed from one political party to the other, one will note that there are two major political parties and they may also have a third fringe party which chooses to go into alliance as in the case of a parliamentary system.

In his remark, Shekarau noted that the major assignments of the National Rebuilding and Inter-Party Committee of the ANPP has as one of its tasks to reach out to parties of like-minds to enrich the democratic process and give Nigerians an alternative.

He described the formation of the APC by four frontline progressive parties as a major breakthrough and restated his party’s committed to offer the people an alternative platform.

Shekarau said: “ANPP is committed to this new change and this new progressive development to provide Nigerians with an alternative platform to ensure that the aspirations of Nigerians for good governance at the centre is realised.”

THE NATION FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2013

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NEWS MERGER OF PARTIES

al redemption project, say opposition Senators Northern Governors’ chair Aliyu backs merger From Augustine Ehikioya, Abuja

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•Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi, Senator Dejare Alkali, Governors Abiola Ajimobi (Oyo), Kashim Shettima (Borno), Babatunde Fashola (Lagos), Tanko al-Makura (Nasarawa), Abdul-Aziz Yari (Zamfara), Ibikunle Amosun (Ogun), Rochas Okorocha (Imo) and Rauf Aregbesola (Osun) after endorsing the merger plan at a meeting at the Lagos House, Marina, Lagos...on Tuesday.

congratulates opposition parties on merger debates on the economy and other issues of governance in the general interest of the country.

The statement reads: “We congratulate the opposition for their successful merger and the formation of the All Progressive Congress. This is yet another victory for our democracy.

“It shows that our democracy has come of age. We hope that from now, we will see robust debates on the economy and other issues of governance.”

The party charged the opposition to use the vehicle of their new party to challenge elected and appointed

officers under the PDP to debates on government projects and achievements, noting the Nigerians will be the utmost beneficiaries at the end of the day.

It said the ruling party will be ready at anytime for talks on any issue pertaining to the economy questions to move the nation forward.

The PDP said: “We charge the opposition to use the new party to challenge our elected and appointed officers on debates on issues of governance.

“We are ready, willing and able at any time to debate on any issue

pertaining to the economy and any other issue of governance. We want useful and constructive debates so that at the end of the day, Nigerians will be the utmost beneficiaries.”

Metuh, however, said the PDP, being the ruling party with a commitment to stability and development will not dwell on the shortcomings of the merger arrangement but rather focus on the welfare of the people.

He said the PDP will continue to be truly democratic and retain its status as the party to beat in future elections.

are called upon, regardless of their political platform, to join this progressive political train.

“It is our faith that this collective national redemption project will lead Nigerians to realise the dreams of our founding fathers to have a coun-

try that works for all and sundry.

God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”

Assuring that the merger would work, the former Benue State governor insisted there is no going back and that governance under

the APC would be business unusual.

He described the new party as a new baby that would be nurtured to redeem the country from PDP’s bad leadership.

Activist to APC promoters: live up to your rescue mission

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ROVIDE Nigerians with the needed leadership and change for development, promoters of the newly formed All Progressive Congress (APC) were told yesterday.

President of the Civil Rights Congress (CRC) Mallam Shehu Sani who gave the charge, said the APC should avoid the pitfalls of similar efforts in the past and that its leaders must not allow their brainchild to suffer the same fate that befell others.

The activist said in a statement issued in Kaduna that the decision of major opposition parties to form a strong party ahead of the 2015 general election was a commendable.

According to him, the platform came at a time Nigerians were beginning to lose hope and confidence in the ability of the oppositions to change the current political order.

He lamented that for a decade after the restoration of democracy, the nation has been in the grip of elite from one political party that has not done enough to rescue the country from the brink of irrelevance, poverty and disunity.

The statement reads: “The decision by

From Tony Akowe, Kaduna

the major political parties in Nigeria to merge is commendable and it is a step in the right direction. It will give meaning, strength and teeth to the politics of opposition.

“The merger is long overdue and a demonstration of principled commitment to democracy, national unity and the eventual establishment of a people’s government in Nigeria.

The APC has come at the right time when Nigerians are yearning for potent leadership and change. The APC came at a time when Nigerians are losing hope and confidence in the ability and capacity of the opposition to confront and change the existing political order and status quo.

“For more than a decade, since the restoration of democracy in 1999, our country has been in the grip of a rapacious, venomous, corrosive and annihilating class of political elite from the dominant ruling party.

“As a nation and as a people, we have regressed and sunk into irrelevance, poverty and disunity. Nigerians have in the last thirteen years

been subjected to hardship and arbitrariness under a succession of corrupt, manipulative, deceptive and suffocating governments.

“The newly formed APC has a challenge; to seek for power and behave differently with power. The component part that forms the APC affirms its national and nationalistic outlook. It must build on its goodwill, promises and expectations to live up to its mission.

“The APC must root itself in the hearts and mind of the people and lead the struggle for genuine change, genuine democracy and a new order for social justice, good governance and a corrupt free society.

“The APC should be a marriage that must not fail. It should be a marriage that will galvanise the people, seize power and bring about the much needed change and development the nation so desired.

“The APC must imbibe the culture of internal democracy and be a shade for all those who cherish a truly democratic, progressive, united and prosperous Nigeria.”

‘APC is right platform for opposition parties’

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OVERNORSHIP candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in Abia State in the 2011 elections Chief Stanley Ohajuruka yesterday said the merger of major opposition parties will engender positive development.

Ohajuruka told The Nation in Umuahia, the Abia State capital, that he is in full support of the deal that produced the All Progressive Congress (APC).

FromUgochukwu Ugoji-Eke, Umuahia The one-time House of Representatives member described the new party as right platform for the opposition to confront the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), which according to him, has failed to take Nigerians to the Promised Land.

IGER State Governor and Chairman of the Northern Governors’ Forum (NGF) Babangida Aliyu, yesterday threw his weight behind the merger of opposition parties.

Four parties - Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), Congress for Progressive Change (CPC), All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP) and All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA) on Wednesday merged to form the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Aliyu, a serving Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governor, said a strong opposition is needed to keep those in government on their toes for the implementation of people-oriented programmes.

He spoke yesterday in Abuja at the opening of the Pre-Implementation Workshop for the 2012 Conditional Grants Scheme (CGS) organised by the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), Dr. Precious Kalamba Gbeneol.

The governor said: “Government is the government of the people; government is all about the welfare of the people…. believe me, I am one of the people that will be happy if this merger of the opposition parties works, because it will put us on our toes.

“People should not take things for granted and think they will be there whether they do good job or bad job. If we have a rationalised approach, only people who really have the interest of the people will present themselves to serve. We must encourage it so that this merger works.”

The governor also maintained that the attainment of the MDGs in the country will go a long way in tackling terrorism and violence as it will eliminate extreme poverty that always leads to anger and violence.

He said: “Attainment of the MDGs is critical to achieving our security challenges. All the goals are aimed at enhancing global governance. We must work hard to achieve the goals in order to fight extreme poverty in the country, which leads to anger and insecurity.

“Working towards the MDGs is indirectly working against terrorism and violence nationally and internationally. Insecurity is also adversely affecting the economy of the country. A particular bank close to a market in Kano, before the crisis, on the average gets daily lodgments of N265 million. But it now gets daily lodgments of N11 million.

“We must bear in mind that insecurity in one state is insecurity in another state and the entire Nigeria. Nobody is safe and we must agree to tackle that and that could be done through the MDGs. Let us try and bring all the poverty alleviation programmes under the MDGs programmes.”

PDP’ll soon go into extinction, Lagos, Rivers ACN

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OR the Lagos and Rivers states’ chapters of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), the formation of the All Progressives Congress (APC), is what Nigerians need to free themselves from bondage under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Four opposition parties –ACN, All Nigerian Peoples Party (ANPP) Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) and All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) met in Abuja on Wednesday and announced the formation of APC under a merger arrangement.

Spokesman of the ACN in Lagos Joe Igbokwe, described the formation as a positive development that must be supported to end the tales of misery, anguish and pain, he said the PDP has levied on the country since 1999.

In a statement, Igbokwe urged members and supporters of the new party to be warry of the antics of the PDP who have demonstrated clear anxiety over the merger.

The statement reads: “All should be on the lookout for primordial tactics the PDP will employ to sow bad blood among the rank and file of the new party as a way of sustaining the rot it has employed as tool to plunder a well-endowed country in the last 14 years into harrowing hardship.

“Our reaction to the emergence of the APC is that this a job well-done considering the fact that the various parties that came together handled the merger mandate with an uncommon dexterity that defied the well known tricks the PDP employs as divisive ploys to frustrate similar moves in the past.

“We bet that as the PDP never believed we have come this far, the same party that has gone rustic with

From Bisi Olaniyi, Port Harcourt

archaic means of sustaining corruption in all facets of life, will surely be rusticated in the nearest future as Nigerians yearn for an end to the macabre order that has completely hobbled the country in 14 awful years of corrupt and incompetent governance.

“That the merger is coming at a time official looting and plundering, insecurity and impunity, decay and unrestrained rot have become directive principles of state policy under the watch of the PDD, shows that there is a flicker of hope for Nigerians.”

In a statement issued in Port Harcourt by ACN Jerry Needam, the party noted the merger would bring to an end, the one party system operational in Rivers State by the ruling PDP. But Needam PDP counterpart George Ukwuoma-Nwogba, while said the ruling party has nothing to fear, in view of the impressive performance of Governor Rotimi Amaechi.

The ACN spokesman said of the merger: “This will mark the end of flagrant disregard for the rule of law, self-centredness and acts of prodigality in Rivers state.

“It shall entrust political leadership of Rivers state in the hands of progressives, God-fearing democrats and men and women with the highest sense frugality, with respect to tax payers’ money.

“The merger shall further bring about healthy political competition in Rivers state that will produce exceptional office holders and put paid to PDP’s style of handpicking mediocres, political jobbers and thugs as government officials.”

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THE NATION FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 8 , 2013

NEWS Alleged $620,000 bribe: Security probes pro-Lawan protest

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•President Goodluck Jonathan at the 12th session of the Organisation of Islamic Countries (OIC) Summit in Cairo, Egypt.

PHOTO:NAN

Agencies hold back govt’s N8.8tr, says report Continued from page 1

Independent revenue derived from Internally Generated revenue (IGR), is 100 percent dedicated to the Federal Government - to the exclusion of other tiers of government.

The agencies were supposed to have remitted N3.06trillion generated in 2009 as independent revenue, but they sent in N46.8b or 1.53 percent to the Treasury.

The report also revealed that in 2010, the agencies generated N3.07trillion, but remitted N54.1b or 1.76 percent to the Federal Government.

In 2011, N3.17trillion was generated, but only 2.33 per cent or N73.8b was remitted to the Treasury.

A general analysis of the agencies’ submission (excluding the NNPC’s) shows expected remittance of N189b as at October, last year. Only N80b had been paid to the Treasury (42 per cent compliance), leaving a shortfall of N109b.

Some of the agencies apart from the NNPC are: Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Nigerian

Broadcasting Commission (NBC) and the Federal Mortgage Bank (FMBN) among others.

With the exception of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), all the agencies prepared and submitted their audited accounts to the office of the Auditor General outside the time stipulated in the Fiscal Responsibility Act, 2007.

The report of the House Committed on Finance on independent revenue generation and remittances to the Consolidated Revenue Fund by governmentowned agencies that was considered yesterday by the lawmakers, however, praised five agencies for attempting to adhere to the FRA to some extent by regularly remitting their independent revenues to the Federal Government.

These are: CBN, Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) and two others.

The chairman of the committee, Abdulmumin Jubrin, presenting the report, said between 2009 and 2011, the NNPC and all its subsidiaries generated N6.132trillion as Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), but remitted no part of it to the Federal Government.

According to him, the money excluded what was generat-

ed from crude oil and gas sales.

The report also revealed that the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) provided confusing accounting figures of its independent revenue in 2009.

While N5.6m was declared, when the agency’s audited account was reviewed, another sub-head of N323m was discovered.

According to the committee’s findings and in consonance with the submission of the Fiscal Responsibility Commission (FRC), most of the reviewed agencies were found culpable of not adequately making returns to the Treasury as well as also preparing different sets of account.

The agencies were found to have always prepared one account for the FRC and another for the Auditor General’s office.

The lawmakers, in adopting the recommendations of the report, mandated the Finance Committee to work on the Fiscal Responsibility Act (FRA) 2007 within four weeks so as to check various loopholes that enable government agencies spend what they generate without recourse to the National Assembly.

The Committee on Finance is to probe other agencies that were not captured in this exercise to ascertain their status.

“Agencies that have refused

to cooperate with the committee are to do so within seven days or Section 89 of the constitution will be invoked on them.

The other recommendations are that: •The Ministry of Finance should compel agencies which have outstanding balances to be paid to pay up immediately; •Any agency found to be spending outside budgetary provisions should be punished; •All revenues due to the Consolidated Revenue Fund of the Federal government must be paid as and when due; •The Accountant General of the Federation should submit to the Committee a detailed monthly report of remittances of Federal Government independent revenue; •The FRC should sanction any agency that fails to submit its audited annual account as and when due; • All agencies should henceforth present evidence of remittances into the Consolidated Revenue Account to the relevant Committees of the House during their budget performance defence; and • The Federal Ministry of Finance should immediately ensure that all funds hidden in various agencies’ bank accounts should be mopped up and promptly remitted to the ConContinued on page 59

ECURITY agencies are probing alleged plans to sponsor a mass protest against the trial of the suspended Chairman of the House Committee on Fuel Subsidy Regime, Mallam Farouk Lawan.

The protest is scheduled for today in Abuja .

But Lawan, who met with his lawyers, Ricky Tarfa (SAN) and Mike Ozekhome (SAN), yesterday was quoted as saying: “I am unbowed.”

There are fears in Lawan’s camp and among House members that the embattled lawmaker may be denied bail.

Lawan and the Clerk of the committee, Mr. Boniface Emenalo, were arraigned last Friday before Justice Mudashiru Oniyangi of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory.

A security source, who spoke with our correspondent, said: “We have intelligence report of plans to disrupt Friday’s proceeding at the High Court by some students, who have been mobilised by some members of the House.

“Some chairmen of House committees are also alleged to be involved in this planned protest.

From Yusuf Alli, Abuja

“One of the chairmen called some Student Union leaders and asked them to issue statements and follow up with demonstrations in Abuja against the trial of Lawan. The protesters are to be addressed by a member of the House at the main entrance of the National Assembly where the demonstration terminates.

“A principal officer of the House followed up yesterday with a call to the same source.

“The aim of the sponsored demonstrations and statements is to portray the collection of the $620,000 bribe and subsequent trial of Farouk Lawan as a ‘setup’ by the Executive to ridicule the House.”

Ozekhome said: “Lawan was in very high spirits. He believes that the Judiciary will vindicate him notwithstanding his travails. He said: ‘I am unbowed.’

“Lawan said he believes that Mr. Femi Otedola, who is the giver of the bribe, should also be brought to justice and charged to court so that the impression is not created that there is inequality of justice in Nigeria and that Otedola is untouchable because of his reach and connections within the system.”

2015: Senators, Reps hail move to kick out PDP Continued from page 1

ter 10 governors met in Lagos to announce their backing for the party.

Gen. Buhari, who spoke at the venue of Mallam Nasir elRufai’s book launch in Abuja, said: “To be fair to those in the committee in charge of the parties participating in the merger, we (CPC) have given them terms of reference and so we should allow them to formally report back to us, otherwise, we will be undermining the authority we have given them.

“The bottom line is that we want to mobilise Nigerians against 2015 elections to secure and manage the country.”

Senate Minority leader George Akume said the formation of APC is a culmination of widespread consultations among the progressives in the country.

He spoke on behalf of senators elected in the platform of

the AC N, CPC, APGA, ANPP and the Democratic Peoples Party (DPP).

Akume added: “We support our leaders, we applaud their wisdom, patriotism and their epochal drive to stem the decline tide. We also appreciate the courage of our governors.”

House Minority Leader, Femi Gbajabiamila, who spoke on behalf of the opposition members said: “We members of the opposition in the House of Representatives want to make it clear that we are in support and committed to the merging of our political parties for the transformation of Nigeria.”

Niger State Governor Babangida Aliyu described the merger as a stepping stone in the country’s democratic process.

“The merger is a welcome development because as we go along, we need very strong parContinued on page 59

Buhari, Tinubu, Fashola, Aliyu, others hail el-Rufai at book launch ORMER Federal Capital Teritory Minister Mallam Nasir Ex-minister’s book a fiction, says Atiku el-Rufai yesterday wept at

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the public presentation of his book, “The Accidental Public Servant”.

He said he was overwhelmed at the outpouring of encomiums on him by the various speakers.

“I don’t know what to say because I have written a book in which I said all I wanted to say,” el-Rufai said before his voice was drowned in emotion.

Former Lagos State Governor Bola Ahmed Tinubu commended the author.

Tinubu, who was represented by the National Publicity Secretary of the ACN, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, said men like el’Rufai are needed to drive the development of the nation at this time.

He said: “For every accident in life, one must pause to appraise the situation. Many talk about their accident in life but very few dear document it and share it in such a bold, blunt and daring manner like el’Rufai has done in this book.”

Former Head of State General Muhammadu Buhari said it was time for the government to dedicate a greater percentage of its budget to education if the nation

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ORMER Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Mallam Nasir elRufai, was yesterday attacked for writing “fiction for self-glorification at the expense of truth”.

Reacting to el-Rufai’s book entitled, “The Accidental Public Servant,” which was presented yesterday, the Media Office of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, dismissed the book “as a collection of fiction, half-truths, exaggeration and reflection of selective memory”.

The Media Office chided t el-Rufai’s claim that he had almost resigned as the Director General of the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE) because of alleged From Sanni Onogu, Abuja

must develop.

Buhari said: “When I said at a lecture that the late Sarduana was spending 43 per cent of the northern budget on education, El’ Rufai corrected me that it was 46 per cent.

“The late Chief Obafemi Awolowo was spending more that 55 per cent. You can’t go wrong. All we get now is only two or five per cent on education

persistent pressure and interference by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who was then the Chairman of the National Council on Privatisation.

Atiku’s Media Office expressed disbelief that the former FCT Minister forgot soon what he said at the Senate Public Hearing on BPE August 8-13, 2011. That Adhoc committee was headed by Senator Ahmed Lawan.

It recalled el-Rufai as saying that he had special relationship with former President Olusegun Obasanjo, which gave him direct access and the discretion to bypass the Council on Privatisation headed by Atiku in order to get the approval of the President.

The Media Office wondered how el-Rufai could reconcile his threat of resignation with

•TEXT OF TINUBU’S SPEECH —P 12 and the rest on security.

Chief Presenter of the book and Lagos State Governor Babatunde Raji Fashola noted that the event was significant as it was at the instance of a former public official who no longer has favours to dispense.

Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Sanusi Lamido

the accounts he told the Senate about the latitude of freedom he enjoyed at BPE because of his closeness to Obasanjo.

On the claim by el-Rufai that former President Obasanjo went on bended knees before former Vice President Atiku Abubakar to seek his cooperation for second term bid in 2003, the media office dismissed the claim as a figment of el-Rufai’s wild imagination.

It said such claim lacked any credibility because Atiku and Obasanjo were alone together behind closed doors and that they alone knew what actually transpired between them.

It noted that if he could go to such irreverent extent to disparage religious icons, who is an ordinary mortal like Atiku Abubakar.

Sanusi said the book captures the issue of values and efficiency in public service.

The Book Reviewer, Professor Chidi Odinkalu, said el’Rufai had transited from a political activist to a statesman.

He said: “He cares more about what happens in the country. The content of the book is not something that can be said by someone whose objective is to return to power.

“It is a book that talks about serving under three masters – Abdusalami, Obasanjo and Yar’Adua.

“We are the same anywhere in Nigeria, East, West, North and South. Impunity is the biggest national problem and not insecurity.

In attendance were: Rivers State Governor Rotimi Chibuike Amaechi represented by his Deputy, Tele Ikuru, Ekiti State

•el-Rufai...yesterday

Governor, Kayode Fayemi, former Chief Justice of the Federation, Mohammed Uwais, Dr. Oby Ezekwesili, Prof. Dora Akunyili, Prince Tony Momoh, Nasarawa State Governor Tanko Almakura, Niger State Governor, Muazu Aliyu Babangida, Senator Chris Ngige and Gombe State Governor Ibrahim Dankwambo.

ADVERT HOTLINES: 08023006969, 08052592524 NEWSROOM: LAGOS – 01-8962807, ABUJA – 07028105302 COMPLAINTS: 01-8930678

THE NATION FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2013

5

NEWS GRASSROOTS BUSINESS AND INVESTMENTS FORUM

• Mrs Adegoke Agboola; Pastor Gideon Alade and Mr Eyitayo Aremu, an engineer

• Mr Segun Olafioye (left) and Mr Kola Famakinwa...yesterday.

• Mr Soji Omotunde...yesterday.

• Rev Adebiyi...yesterday.

• Mrs Bosede Apara (left); Mrs Sanyaolu Adebola and Dr Dele Ekunola...yesterday.

PHOTOS: NIYI ADENIRAN AND OLUSEGUN RAPHAEL

Leaders urged to work for common development

A

S the four-day Southwest Grassroots Business and Investments Forum (EXPO 2013) in Osogbo, the Osun State capital, entered its second day yesterday, leaders of the geo-political zone have been urged to work together on a common set of development strategies.

The Director General of the Western Nigeria Integration Commission, Mr Dipo Famakinwa, who made the call, said the leaders should leverage on shared historical affiliations of states in the zone to build synergies and economies of scale, whereby the region and its people will experience enhanced human and social development outcomes across all spheres of existence.

Representatives of Lagos and Ekiti states, the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and private companies also spoke at the workshop sessions on their various programmes and products to boost food production in the region. Those who made presentations include the Federal Institute of Industrial Research, Oshodi (FIIRO), AFKA Printing and Publishing Company, Lagos, the Origin Group that is propagating the “Tractor-

From Adesoji Adeniyi, Osogbo

ise Nigeria” gospel, Rhema Doormat West Africa Limited and S. Adis Steel, which came with samples of mechanical devices to aid agricultural production.

The Ekiti Development Authority drew the attention of participants to efforts by the Kayode Fayemi administration to promote small and medium scale industries.

All the participants pointed out the need to tackle poverty. They announced a resolve by governments in the region to collaborate towards ensuring that the teeming youths are gainfully engaged.

Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola, with whom are other dignitaries, visited the various exhibition stands at the EXPO. Dancers from Ekiti and Lagos states marked their States Day with cultural performances.

In his presentation entitled: “Development Agenda for Western Nigeria (DAWN): An Overview of the Strategy Roadmap, Famakinwa, stressed the need for regional cooperation, noting that the “whole world is leaving us behind, and we cannot continue to

•Mr Famakinwa...yesterday.

•Mr Olusola Dada...yesterday

whole world is leaving ‘The us behind, and we cannot continue to put the lives and well-being of about 40 million people in jeopardy

’

put the lives and well-being of about 40 million people in jeopardy.”

He said Nigeria remained a limiting factor and a “stifling behemoth that is going nowhere”. DAWN would reject the status-quo and aspires to expand the frontiers of possibilities and opportunities of Western Nigeria to transform the region, Famakinwa added.

The guest speaker said: “The world is looking in the direction of Africa for agriculture and nutrition, and

for other commercial possibilities that the fast-urbanising Africa presents. There is a compelling necessity to prepare the Region for global competitiveness. It is a crisis situation and Yorubaland cannot wait.”

He said the vision of the present leadership in the Southwest is to aggressively work together to rebuild Western Nigeria into a First World status in terms of her economy, infrastructure and standard of living of the people.

The Special Adviser for Integration to the Lagos State Government, Rev Tunji Adebiyi noted that Lagos with about 20 million population offers a viable market for agricultural products produced in other Southwest States.

“There are about 20 million people in Lagos who spend about N100 per day on food but unfortunately 90 percent of the N2billion spent on food goes to the northern states where the food consumed in Lagos comes from.

“If we can ensure that the Southwest states produce the food needed not only in their states but in Lagos, the states will be able to generate enough internally generated revenue for their social and economic development” Rev Adebiyi said.

He also acknowledged the pioneering role in the regional integration crusade championed by former Lagos State Governor, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu since 1999 as the only two term Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) governor which has been sustained by Governor Raji Fashola.

He said there is need to understand how the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo and other past leaders developed the old Western region to succeed in the present efforts to make the Southwest the economic hub of the country like it was in the past.

Famakinwa said the regional integration agenda is not limited to the govern-

ments of Western States of Nigeria (Ekiti, Lagos, Ogun, Ondo, Osun and Oyo states) but also extend communal possibilities with the Yoruba people in Kwara, Kogi and Itsekiri in Delta State.

“Outcome of several strategic engagements to define a Roadmap for the progress of the people of Western Nigeria is essentially an agenda for good governance that seeks to commit the leadership of the Region to governance actions that deliver impactful results to the people.

“DAWN seeks to encourage and support the States of Western Nigeria to develop a common set of integrated development strategies that would enable the Region and its citizens to experience a well-managed process of development across all spheres of existence.

“The strategic objective is to merge strengths, leverage comparative and competitive advantages, encourage peer learning and minimise duplication of efforts,” he said.

In constructing a stronger regional development autonomy, he said DAWN takes into consideration the development of Western Nigeria along regional lines as the first step to creating a larger framework of possibilities for trade, commerce, investments and industrial development.

He said part of the agenda is to harness the potential of the region as an economic bloc for private capital, foreign direct investments and multi-lateral support.

THE NATION FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2013

6

CITYBEATS L

AGOS w h i t e c a p c h i e f , K a y o d e O n i m o l e , was shot dead yesterday in his home by yet unidentified gunmen.

The g u n m e n s t o r m e d h i s home at Onimole Court, IgaIduganran, a few metres away from the palace of Oba Rilwanu Akiolu of Lagos.

The 73-year-old chief, who is also the Opomulero of Yoruba land, was last seen on Wednesday evening during the celebration of the Super Eagles' victory over Mali in the semi-final of the African Cup of Nations.

The Nation learnt that the gunmen broke into his home about 3am yesterday.

Police chief Umaru Manko told The Nation on telephone: "Two boys walked into the man's bedroom around 3am and shot him dead. They did not steal anything; so they are not armed robbers.

"We have commenced investigation into the matter already. The Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) in charge of the State Criminal Investigations Department (SCID), Panti, Yaba is leading the investigation team and they have already swung into action."

The late Onimole's widow, Matilda, sat in the midst of s y m p a t h i s e r s y e s t e r d a y at their Lagos Island home.

The bereaved family's spokesperson, Maj-Gen Segun Ajiborisha (rtd.) described the incident as “very pathetic”.

He said the family would miss Baba Oloye Onimole, adding that people had been calling from within and outside the country to confirm if the news was true.

Gen. Ajiborisha described the late Onimole as “a very l o v a b l e m a n w h o could not hurt a fly”, adding: "As a man, he could get annoyed but he did not have any enemy. He lived an exemplary life."

He said the family was confident that the police would find the killers.

Sympathisers, who thronged the late Onimole's residence, recalled his fatherly role in the community.

One of them, Lateef Ahmed, said the late Onimole was always ready to listen to people's problems.

"We will miss him because he was a man of the people; a likeable character. He would always be part of whatever positive activity we were engaged

07059022999

Lagos white cap chief killed

•The late Onimole’s widow, Matilda ... yesterday

•The slain Onimole

‘Two boys walked into the man's bedroom around 3am and shot him dead ... we have commenced investigation into the matter already. The Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) in charge of the State Criminal Investigations Department (SCID), Panti, Yaba is leading the investigation team and they have already swung into action ’

By Jude Isiguzo

in and he was always there to offer words of advice," Ahmed said.

The Onimole seat was va-

•Some sympathisers at his residence yesterday

cant for about 105 years following a dispute in some Lagos families before the late

Onimole, a Nigerian Railway retiree and businessman was installed by the then Oba Adeyinka Oyekan in 2002. The

PHOTO: JUDE ISIGUZO

late Onimole was 62 when he assumed duty as the Oba’s adviser, soothsayer and spiritualist.

Police rescue landlord’s son, 14, kidnapped by tenant

By Adejo David

•Daniel

I

F not for Providence, little Daniel Oke would have been sold by now.

Last Saturday, his father’s tenant, Raymond Quadri,

allegedly abducted the 14-yearold boy and kept him with his girlfriend in Ikorodu.

He was said to have taken Daniel to Ikorodu pending when he would sell the boy for N2 million.

Daniel has been been reunited with his parents at their 51, Lasisi Ige Street home in Ikotun, a Lagos suburb.

Quadri, who is in police custody, was said to have cashed in on his relationship with the Okes to carry out his plan.

Sources told The Nation that Quadri took the boy to his girlfriend in Ikorodu, throwing the Okes into despair.

Oke said: "My son left home with no trace of where he went until we were hinted that Quadri took him away. I never in my life would think that Quadri could

do this kind of thing to my family because I took him like my son and relaxed with him. He would come in and play with my children. He would eat and drink with us in my house."

When Oke raised the alarm over his son’s disappearance, two women told him that they saw Daniel with Quadri at the BRT Bus Stop, Ikotun.

Oke immediately reported the matter to the police, which swung into action by inviting Quadri for interrogation. But he was said to have insisted that he knew nothing about the boy’s disappearance.

"I almost thought I was accusing him falsely until a senior police officer started asking him questions on his relationship with my son and the two women that saw them last at the bus stop," Oke said, adding: "He would always send my son to buy him petrol for the

generating set he uses at his football-viewing centre, but I was not comfortable with his lifestyle when it comes to money. He lives big. In fact, at a point, I asked my son not to go to his centre anymore because I was uncomfortable with how he got all that money he lavishes all the time."

Daniel’s friend told The Nation: "He once asked my friend and me to think of four things we wanted most in our life that he would do them for us."

A source told The Nation that Quadri later confessed, saying: "The police formation at Ikotun which, on a tip-off, invited him for investigations. It was when he refused to cooperate that his case was handed over to men of the SARS, Ikeja for proper investigation and prosecution”.

Quadri reportedly took the SARS to the Ikorodu residence of

his girlfriend where Daniel was rescued. Quadri, it was learnt, planned to sell the boy for N2 million.

Reliving his experience, Daniel told The Nation: "I was inside the room throughout with one sister (the girlfriend), not sure of what next to expect. I'm happy to be back home."

A neighbour spoke about Quadri's relationship with children in the neighbourhood: "Raymond is an easy-going man who used to play with little children. He would buy biscuits and 'Bobo', a popular fruit juice, for them. But he has been living big. Though he operates a TV viewing centre here, his real source of income is suspicious."

The Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Ngozi Braid, a Deputy Superintendent (DSP), said the matter was being investigated.

‘’ THE NATION FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2013

7

CITYBEATS

07059022999

Car snatchers in police net

Sergeant, dismissed corporal held for extortion

T

HE X-Squad, a special team of the Lagos State Police Command, yesterday arrested a dismissed corporal and a spy sergeant who have been under watch.

Bolatunde Alabi, the dismissed corporal, and Spy Sergeant Patrick Udoh were said to have been involved in extortion and illegally escorting car snatchers and stolen goods.

They were paraded in Lagos Police Commissioner Umaru Manko’s office by the Officer-incharge of X-Squad, Chief Superintendent (CSP) Kola Okunlola.

Okunlola said Alabi and Udoh were arrested inside the same vehicle.

According to him, Alabi boarded a commercial bus going to Sango-Ota in Ogun State from Oshodi. His men arrested Alabi when the bus parked at Ile-Epo Bus Stop to pick a passenger.

Udoh, who was in the bus, stirred suspicion because he was improperly dressed. He was arrested for questioning and was discovered to be on the wanted list. He would parade himself as a general duty officer to extort money from people.

Alabi, 33, said he served for three years in MOPOL 16 Oluwuda Post at Abeokuta before he was dismissed for stealing the armourer’s mobile telephone handset. He said he never suspected that the X-squad operatives were monitoring him.

"One of my gang members even

AUSTINE Tsenzughul, Bauchi Inspector General of Police's Special Anti Robbery Squad attached to Alhaji Ali Kwara has arrested two suspected car snatchers in Kano.

Ali Kwara paraded the suspects yesterday at Azare, the headquarters of Katagum Local Government Area, Bauchi State.

He said the suspects were arrested in Kano following a tip-off from an informant while they were trying to sell a vehicle they stole in Lagos.

"The suspects drugged out the car owner, thereafter they took away the car from Lagos and dropped him while asleep near an undisclosed firm in Niger state," he said, adding that efforts to trace the car owner had failed but he said that the suspects and the recovered 406 Peugeot car would be handed over to the Niger State Police Command for further investigations.

By Ebele Boniface

told me that the Commissioner of Police had ordered the squad to track down policemen reportedly parading themselves on OshodiAbeokuta Expressway, I doubted it, thinking that it was only the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) that are after dangerous criminals," he said.

"We have been operating successfully until yesterday when an operative of the X-Squad ordered me to come down from a commercial bus that wanted to park and pick a passenger at IleEpo market area. I was later taken to Police Headquarters, Ikeja and that is why I am here.

"I am a dismissed police corporal and I used my uniform to help myself. I escort smuggled goods, help snatchers to pass difficult areas but I have never used arms. I gave them my arms and uniform when I was dismissed. I bought these uniforms later."

Udoh said he enlisted in the police in September 1991 at the Police Training School (PTS) Calabar, Cross River State, at 28.

"I was later posted to Railway Lagos where I was promoted corporal for my gallantry. I have served for 22 years. My salary is N60,000. I am 40 years old; I am from Ikot Abasi in Akwa Ibom," he said, adding that his last operation fetched him “N500 recharge card”.

"Sorry sir, I want to confess; I am not a conventional police officer. I am not a general-duty police officer. I am a spy. I was merely

Lagos unveils approved motorbikes

By Miriam Ndikanwu

•Alabi and Udoh while being paraded by the police

looking for money to feed my family in Lagos. I will not do it again. Please tell O/C X-Squad to

release me. I promise not to use police uniform to commit crimes."

•From left: Vice Chairman, Agege Local Government, Lagos State, Hon Olanrewaju Odueso; Chairman, Hon Awodeyi Abdulkareem; Secretary, Hon Idowu Aderele; Deputy Leader, Hon Adewale Olumide and the Council Manager, Mrs Adeola Sanya during the council’s official commissioning of Ayobo Garage and distribution of relief materials fo flood victims in the area.

PHOTO: DAYO ADEWUMI

LAGOS State Government yesterday unveiled the specified 200CC motorcycles approved for use in the state.

State Commissioner for Transportation, Mr. Kayode Opeifa who unveiled the specimen at a stakeholders' meeting with courier organisations and motorcycle dealers at the Secretariat, Alausa, Ikeja, said the exhibition of the became necessary following reports that some motorbikes purchased by organisations in the wake of recent restriction on commercial bike operations in the state were not up to the 200 CC capacity approved by government.

Opeifa said that both officials of the state government and the private organisations had made mistakes, leading to contraventions which needed correction. "Dealers of motorcycles in the state pasted stickers of 200CC on motorcycles which engine capacity falls below the stipulated range," Opeifa added.

He appealed to residents to exercise caution at point of purchase, adding that the bikes that come with capacity embossed on the frame may not be up to the capacity and called on those buying to look out for the capacity that is moulded on the machine to avoid making mistake.

"The road traffic law stipulates that the engine capacity of any motorcycle that must operate in the state must be above 200CC." State Chief Vehicle Inspection Officer, CVIO, Mr Gbolahan Toriola explained that the concern of the state government is the engine capacity of 200CC and not the brand name.

According to Toriola, "All the organisations needed is to purchase a motorcycle with the stipulated engine capacity and visit any of their centres for authentication."

Court remands 11 suspected vandals in prison

J

USTICE Musa Kurya of the Federal High Court, Lagos yesterday ordered that 11 suspected petroleum pipeline vandals be remanded in prison.

The order followed the arraignment of the suspects on a four-count charge brought against them by the Federal Government.

They are: Sidi Egbayelo, Sunday Shedrack, Edem Okon, Kofa Godwin, Rosemon Neito, Ejona Kpamkpam, Moses Victor, Christopher Sunday, Peter Tay, Remon Uchugwu and Mike Sabato.

They pleaded not guilty. The

By Eric Ikhilae

prosecuting lawyer, Justin Enang, urged the court not to grant them bail because their offence borders on economic sabotage. He said the defendants may abscond if granted bail.

Defence lawyer, McAnthony Aikharialea, prayed the court to grant his clients bail, saying he would provide a reliable surety, who will ensure that they come for their trials.

The defendants, he said, were ordinary fishermen, who were arrested by a police patrol team while fishing.

He said the defendants were not near the pipelines when they were arrested.

Justice Kurya adjourned ruling on the bail application till February 11.

The accused persons were arrested on December 21, last year at Atlas Cove, Lagos.

They are accused of tampering with petroleum pipelines, which are property of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) and thereby committed an offence punishable under Section 516 of the Criminal Code, Cap C38, Laws of the Federation

of Nigeria, 2004.

They are also alleged to have stolen 220 drums of petroleum motor spirit (PMS) valued N5.3 million, property of the NNPC, an offence punishable under Section 390 of Criminal Code, Act, Cap C38, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004.

They are also accused of unlawfully dealing in petroleum products without appropriate authority, thereby committing an offence punishable under Section 1 (17) (b) of the Miscellaneous Offences Act Cap M17, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004.

•Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola

THE NATION FRIDAY FEBRUARY 8, 2013

8

NEWS 30 SANs for UNILAG’s suit TEAM of 30 Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SAN) will defend the University of Lagos’ (UNILAG’s) fight to retain its name.

President of the University of Lagos Alumni Association, Prof. Olaide Abass, said yesterday at the second day of the university’s Golden Jubilee convocation that the team, led by Chief Wole Olanipekun, would argue that UNILAG is too old to change its name without consultation.

He said: “UNILAG will remain UNILAG. We have put in place a team of 30 SANs, led by Chief Olanipekun.

They are not asking for a

A

By Kofoworola BeloOsagie

kobo. One question they are asking is, Who will change the name of a 50-year old man without his consent?

So, UNILAG will remain UNILAG.” President Goodluck Jonathan last year announced a new name for the university (Moshood Abiola University of Lagos, MAULAG) during the Democracy Day address. His decision was challenged by the Alumni Association of the university in court, which ruled that the status quo should remain until the Act establishing the university is amended.

PMAN embarks on peace mission Victor Akande, Entertainment Editor

S

OME members of the Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria (PMAN) have embarked on a peace mission to reconcile the warring factions and conduct fresh elections.

This followed persistent faction crisis, litigation and uncoordinated attitude of some musicians.

Coordinated by Chris Mba, Orits Wiliki and a few others, the group in Lagos yesterday told reporters that steps are being taken to bring the association back on track.

There are three factions of PMAN, led by Tee Mac, Predy Wise and Murphy, all claiming right as president of the association.

“Over the years, we have found many things wrong with the union. We have been bedevilled by leadership crisis.

The benefits of belonging to a union are eluding us,” said Wiliki, who sat with eight others at the meeting.

The Reggae artiste said although he did not initiate the peace mission, he waded in when requested by Chris Mba and others.

He noted that the first step taken to reconcile the union was to get the acclaimed leaders to agree to a peaceful resolution.

Wiliki said the mission took the group on a visit to the aggrieved members, expressing the genuineness of the peace-seeking initiative.

The group, he said, undertook a scientific method by making the acclaimed leaders administer questionnaires on the possible resolution of the crisis in the association.

2013 budget: House may veto Jonathan OUSE of Representatives has said it may use veto power following the reluctance of President Goodluck Jonathan to assent to the 2013 Appropriation Bill passed by the National Assembly.

The House denied that there is a disagreement with the Senate over some aspects of the bill.

House spokesman, Zakari Mohammed, who affirmed that the budget document has not been sent back to the House by the Executive, said although the lawmakers were concerned, not to the level of wielding such a constitutional power on the President.

According to him, the House was only interested in a workable budget for the benefit of Nigerians, which was responsible for the passage of the bill in record time.

“The makers of the 1999 Constitution have put this power (veto) in place since inception. We are not in a hurry, we have not got there yet. We should give him (Jonathan) the benefit of the doubt.

“Possibly, he is still considering it, but we will act in the best interest of Nigerians at the appropriate time.

“Since 1999, this is the first time a budget went through a rigorous examination. This is because our Appropriation Committee gave chance to MDAs to review their input and report back.

“The whole essence of the budget is for it to be implemented, we are not going to rubber stamp it, because we have finance experts in the House,” he said.

He, however, corrected insinuation that the budget document might be in possession

H

•Opposition lawmakers endorse APC From: Victor Oluwasegun and Dele Anofi, Abuja

of the lawmakers, saying: “We have done our part on the budget. It is not currently with us. It is with them. It is not on our side, it is with the President. As far as we are concerned, the budget is not with us. We are sure Mr. President is still working on the budget”.

On the insinuation that the two chambers were in disagreement on certain aspects of the budget document, Mohammed explained that the two chambers have effective means of managing their differences without allowing the disagreement to degenerate.

“The issue of disagreement between the two chambers does not arise. Both chambers of the Seventh Assembly have worked with the spirit of unity and togetherness.

“If there’s any issue we don’t agree on, the procedure of the constitution is followed and there is a Conference Committee where we iron out our differences”.

Over 160 lawmakers belonging to opposition parties in the House of Representatives have backed the merger of four parties and the birth of All Progressives Congress (APC) to wrest power from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2015 general elections.

Speaking on behalf of the legislators, Femi Gbajabiamila (ACN, Lagos), hoped that a successful merger would turn the tide against the PDP as it would be in opposition after the 2015 general elections.

He said: “This conference is called to lend our voice as an opposition group to the

‘If there’s any issue we don’t agree on, the procedure of the constitution is followed and there is a Conference Committee where we iron out our differences’ ongoing merger talks among the opposition parties in Nigeria.

“We members of the opposition in the House want to make it clear that we are in support and are committed to the merging of our parties for the transformation of Nigeria.

“On Tuesday, 10 governors belonging to the parties met and declared their support.

That was one level or tier of governance. Today, over 160 legislators of the House of Representatives from different parties have just met to confirm their support for the merger.

“We find this public affirmation necessary to give the masses confidence that help is on the way and that they should keep hope alive.

“While this may not be an auspicious time for our colleagues in the PDP, who are progressives in their orientation, to key into this Nigerian project, our doors remain open.

“The merger represents a True Rainbow coalition of colours that will brighten the darkness we have been

plunged into as a nation over the past decade.

“For political observers, the merger began in the House a long time ago. We have as an opposition co-sponsored several bills, voted and spoke in unison on many issues that are of national importance and worked together as an opposition for the common good. Together, with progressive forces in the PDP, we ensured the emergence of a Speaker elected independently by the House, a first in Nigeria’s democratic history.

“We will strive to work together with the President for the common good. We will disagree with him where we must and hail his efforts when he deserves commendation.

This is the essence of true democracy and the true meaning of opposition. We trust that the PDP will also do likewise in 2015 when it plays the role of opposition in our democracy.

“We wish to advise President Jonathan to disregard the advice of those who see every criticism as an attack on Mr. President. They do not wish him well. Progressive ideology must often clash with conservatism: A contest and clash of ideas. Policy and ideology in an advanced democracy is just that.

“It must never be debased to the level of personal attacks and persecution. Going forward and particularly in 2015, we must encourage issuebased politics and elections.

“Having said this, we once again extend a hand of fellowship to Mr. President for the next two years before his presidency becomes lameduck, for us to work together for the benefit of those whom we represent.”

Ndume asks court to stay proceedings ENATOR Mohammed Ali Ndume has asked a Federal High Court, Abuja, to stay proceedings in his trial pending the determination of an appeal he filed against a decision of the court.

He is challenging the decision of the court to admit in evidence the DVDs containing call data records and findings of investigations carried out by a Special Investigation Panel (SIP) of the State Security Service (SSS).

Ndume is accused of hoarding information on planned terror attacks and providing logistics to the convicted spokesman of the Boko Haram sect, Ali Sanda Umar Konduga (aka Usman AIZawahiri).

He is also charged with allegedly giving telephone numbers of certain public officers to Boko Haram for the purpose of communicating terrorist messages.

The alleged offences are contrary to and punishable under sections 3(b), 4(1) (a) and 7(1) (b) of the Terrorism Prevention Act, 2011.

Although yesterday was slated for the continuation of trial, Ndume’s counsel A. O. Jolawo told the court that his client had filed an appeal against the December 11 and

S

From Kamarudeen Ogundele, Abuja

14 ruling of the court.

Prosecuting counsel Thompson Olatigbe confirmed the receipt of the notice of appeal. He said the motion for stay has not been served.

He, therefore, urged the court to proceed with the cross examination of its witness since the motion for stay was not ripe for hearing.

Adjourning till February 19 to hear the application, Justice Gabriel Kolawole said he felt rather hesitant to insist that cross examination of the prosecution witness should continue.

He directed the prosecution to file his reply to the application within five days and that the defence should, within three days upon service, reply (if necessary) on points of law.

A prosecution witness had told the court that there were 73 communications between a Nokia E7, which allegedly belongs to Ndume and the convicted spokesman of the Boko Haram sect, Konduga, who allegedly owns the Nokia 2700 that was tendered in evidence with the Nokia E7.

The witness, Aliyu Usman,

•Ndume

a forensic examiner attached to the SSS, told the court that in the course of analysing the mobile phones given to him by the Chairman of the SIP, James Ene Izi, it was discovered that the two persons had exchanged text messages, multi media messages and placed voice calls between October 3, 2011 and November 3, 2011.

He, however, gave two different International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) on December 11 and 14 when he read out the last four digits of the IMEI for the Nokia E7, which allegedly belongs to Ndume.

On December 11, Usman told the court that the last four digits were 3050, but on December 14 he confirmed that the last four digits read 3055.

THE NATION FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2013

9

NEWS Ajimobi urges Nigerians to give back to society

PDP to Mimiko: account for 2012 allocation

T

HE Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ondo State has described the signing of the N152.5 billion 2013 budget by Governor Olusegun Mimiko as “a faulty beginning”.

It said the House of Assembly should have asked the executive to account for last year’s budget before approving this year’s budget.

In a statement yesterday by its Publicity Secretary, Mr. Wale Ozogoro, PDP said the legislature has abandoned its responsibilities and become the ap-

From Damisi Ojo, Akure

pendage of the executive.

It said: “We are perturbed that the Appropriation Bill passed through the Assembly without questioning. PDP and Ondo people demand that the Labour Party (LP) administration account for funds that came into the state as federal allocation, derivation fund, Value Added Tax (VAT), loans, donation from international agencies and Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) amounting to over N600 billion in its first

term.

“This excludes the N38 billion left in the treasury by the past adminitration of Dr. Olusegun Agagu. What has this government done with this huge revenue in the last four years?

“We frown at the high level of fraud and corruption that characterise the LP administration and urge the state government to be accountable, transparent and sensitive to the needs of the people.

“The government is not only corrupt, it exhibits profligacy in its activities.”

Oke-Ogun fire victims seek help

V

ICTIMS of the January 10 fire in Oke Ogun, Oyo State, in which maize worth over N11 million was destroyed, have called on the state government for assistance.

The fire razed 12 silos at the Owo River in Oje Owode, Saki East Local Government Area.

The owner of the silos, Alhaji Mufutau Banire, yesterday urged Governor Abiola Ajimobi, the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) and Saki East Local Government Council to help him revive the business.

The cause of the fire, which raged on for three days, is still unknown.

From Oseheye Okwuofu, Ibadan

The incident has rendered many Yoruba, Beninois and Togolese employees of the farm jobless.

Banire said: “I am appealing to the state government to help rebuild my maize farm. The loss is unbearable and about 80 of my workers are now jobless. All the silos were destroyed before fire-fighters arrived.

“Since we have a compassionate governor, I hope this harrowing condition will be mitigated, lest its effect leads to worse consequences.”

He said a bag of maize, which cost N6,000 before the fire, now sells for N6,500 because of its shortage in the area.

75 investors meet with Amosun EVENTY-five investors met with Ogun State Governor Ibikunle Amosun yesterday to finalise arrangements for the take off of their industries in the state.

Amosun said his administration would collaborate with the private sector to establish power plants to serve industries.

The chief executive officers of 25 companies in the state were at the meeting, which was held at the Government House in Abeokuta, the state capital.

Amosun said the building and expansion of Ogun roads

S

From Ernest Nwokolo, Abeokuta

are part of measures to attract more investors to the state.

He said Ogun is the best place to site industries because of its proximity to Lagos and the peaceful environment.

The governor said he has put measures in place to harmonise tax payment and prevent multiple taxation.

He said: “Taxes will be automated with no hassles in paying and knowing what to pay. We are going to publish what you are expected to pay as taxes to the state and local governments. We will syn-

chronise and harmonise all these taxes.

“It is going to be automated, so no ministry or agency will harass you. When you know what to pay, there will be no need to bang on your doors to collect tax anymore.

“The government will interface with companies to build roads and toll it. Nigerians will not be against it, if it works. For instance, the Papalanto road is a federal road, but we cannot wait for the Federal Government to fix it.

We can partner to build it and collect toll. You, the government and the people will benefit from such arrangement.”

Ekiti council officials urged to be prudent

E

KITI State Deputy Governor Mrs. Funmi Olayinka has advised local government administrators to be prudent.

She spoke yesterday in Iloro-Ekiti at a two-day workshop on Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF).

The workshop was organ-

From Sulaiman Salawudeen, Ado-Ekiti

ised by the Ministry of Local Government and Community Development for top council officials.

Mrs. Olayinka said people at the grassroots will serve as the first point of assessment for council projects.

Baptists organise workers’ seminar

I

TESIWAJU Baptist Association will tomorrow hold a workers’ seminar at Itire Baptist Church, Isiba Street, Itire, Lagos.

The seminar is for officers and workers in the church and organs of the association.

It will start by 9am. The theme of the seminar is: “Building a prevailing church in such a time as this”.

It will feature topics on “How to build a prevailing church”; “Church administration in a local Baptist Church” and “The church and contemporary issues (security, fire and environment problems)”.

The guest speakers are Rev. O.K. Babarinde, Rev. E. A. O. Oguntokun and Inspector O. A. Adenigba, among others.

Madam Obe for burial today From Damisi Ojo, Akure

T

HE late matriarch of the Obe family of Igbara-Oke in Ondo State, Mrs. Abigail Olatutu Obe, will be buried today.

Mama Obe, as she was fondly called, died on September 20, last year, after a brief illness. She was 80.

The funeral service will hold at St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Igbara-Oke. Mrs. Obe is survived by many children, including Mrs. Olapade Kupolati, wife of Ven. Lawrence Kupolati, the Vicar of St Paul’s Anglican Church, Esa-Oke, Osun State.

She said the workshop was designed to institutionalise fiscal discipline and acquaint council administrators of the provisions of the Fiscal Responsibility Act (FRA).

The deputy governor said: “The introduction of MTEF in councils would ensure that governance is no longer business as usual. The government’s plan is to ensure that the era of impunity by public officers is gone for good and encourage the people to take their destinies in their hands.

“The introduction of MTEF will not only align the councils with the state government, it will help set a new paradigm that will identify activities and projects to be embarked upon annually.

“It will also use the budget platform to provide resources for their implementation and elicit questions from the populace as to whether set targets were met.”

The Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Local Government and Community Development, Mr. Ayodeji Ajayi, said the introduction of MTEF in councils is in the best interest of the people.

•Governor’s wife donates building to UCH

•Ajimobi

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YO State Governor Abiola Ajimobi has urged Nigerians to give back to the society.

He said it is the collective responsibility of all human beings to assist others.

Ajimobi spoke yesterday at the inauguration of the Florence Ajimobi Alaanu House at the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan.

The project was initiated by his wife, Florence.

It was dedicated to the memory of the governor’s mother, Alhaja Sikirat Ajimobi. The building will serve as a

The greatest form of Godliness is to render services to humanity, especially the less privileged. We must learn to give back to the society in one way or the other From Tayo Johnson, Ibadan

“waiting house” for the families of patients.

Ajimobi said: “The greatest form of godliness is to render services to humanity, especially the less-privileged. We must learn to give back to the society in one way or the other. The government cannot do everything alone; people need to assist us by contributing to the welfare of others. “Since we assumed office, we have shown a lot of interest in our people’s welfare through free primary health care services and over

500,000 people have benefited.”

He hailed his wife on the initiative, adding that she had been involved in humanitarian services before he became governor.

Mrs. Ajimobi said the idea of building a waiting house for the families of patients was conceived last April when she visited some children, who were involved in an accident, at UCH. She said their families were going through a lot of suffering while waiting for the children to recuperate.

The governor’s wife urged wealthy indigenes to contribute to the development of the state.

UCH’s Chief Medical Director Prof. Temitope Alonge thanked Mrs. Ajimobi for the gesture.

He said the building, which can accommodate 100 people, would strengthen the hospital’s relationship with the families of patients.

THE NATION FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2013

10

NEWS

•Ogun State Governor Ibikunle Amosun (arrowed) and his wife, Olufunso (sixth right), with existing/ potential investors in Ogun after a meeting at the Government House, Abeokuta...yesterday.

Retirees to vacate UI quarters before June From Oseheye Okwuofu, Ibadan

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HE management of the University of Ibadan (UI) has told retired workers to vacate the Staff Quarters before June.

It said anyone who fails to comply would be ejected.

This was contained in a bulletin signed by the university’s Registrar, Mr. O. I. Olukoya, on January 30.

The bulletin, entitled: “Announcement from the Senior Staff Housing Committee: Extension of Vacation Notice to Retirees who have overstayed in their Residential Quarters”, said it was sad that some retirees failed to plan for their future while in service. It reads: “Some retirees, who were requested to vacate the university quarters on or before December 31, 2012, have appealed for an extension of the notice given.

“To this end, the management has graciously extended the vacation notice till June, after which there will be no more extension.

“The management reiterates that the existing regulation, which provides for a maximum of three-month stay in the university quarters after retirement, should be enforced.

“In the light of this situation, the management advises all staff to plan for their future.”

Ajibola, Olunloyo hail Aregbesola on budgets F ORMER Attorney-General and Minister of Justice Bola Ajibola and exGovernor of the old Oyo State Dr. Omololu Olunloyo have hailed Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola for giving preference to capital expenditure in the 2012 and 2013 budgets.

Speaking in Osogbo, the Osun State capital, at the ongoing Southwest Agric Expo organised by Vintage Press Limited, publishers of The Nation, in partnership with CEEDEE Resources, they also hailed Aregbesola on the Osun Youth Empowerment Scheme (OYES) and efforts to make agriculture the biggest industry in the Southwest.

Describing him as a visionary leader, Ajibola gave Aregbesola the title of “Omoluabi of Oodualand”.

He said by allocating 65 per cent of the budget to capital expenditure, Aregbesola has broken away from the tradition of overhead cost overshooting capital projects.

•Osun hosts Southwest Agric Expo Credit ‘should be

given to our forward-looking governor, who has made agriculture the hallmark of development. Agriculture must take a vantage position in any viable government

’

From Adesoji Adeniyi, Osogbo

The former Judge of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) said: “This is progress. In

some parts of Nigeria, it is the other way round, where we spend so much on administrative costs over capital expenditure.

“It is worthy of note that Osun’s economy is growing and that is the initiative of the Omoluabi of Oodua land.”

He said the engagement of over 20,000 youths and the incorporation of about 81,000 temporary jobs in the 2013 budget are commendable.

Emphasising the importance of agriculture to a nation, Ajibola said an agrarian revolution is going on in Osun.

He said the recent distribution of input and loans to farmers would boost food production in the Southwest.

Ajibola said: “It is important for agriculture to take a

prominent position in the development of any government. I am delighted that we have good governance here and the administration is after the people’s welfare. I hope this will not be the end of this agrarian revolution.

“Credit should be given to our forward-looking governor, who has made agriculture the hallmark of development.

Agriculture must take a vantage position in any viable government.”

Olunloyo said Aregbesola had a clear picture of what he was coming to do before contesting the election.

He hailed the administration’s efforts to rebuild the education system, adding that Aregbesola was acting like the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo.

Olunloyo said: “It is not by accident that Aregbesola is performing well. He understood what he was coming to do and had eight years tutelage in Lagos. Leaders need to emulate him.”

Governor urges Nigerians to defend their rights

O

SUN State Governor Rauf Aregbesola has urged Nigerians to defend their rights, if they must live above slavery.

He spoke at the Freedom Park in Lagos during the celebration of the Black History Month.

Reading the United Nations (UN) Freedom Charter, Aregbesola said the right to the good things of life is not a privilege but an inalienable right from birth. This the United Nations charter has equally supported through the enabling conventions and laws.

The governor, who was represented by Osun State Commissioner for Culture and Home Affairs, Alhaji Adetona Sikiru, said: “It is important to demand from the government what belong

By Musa Odoshimokhe

to us - a situation where we will live freely with equal access to our crude oil and where issues of subsidy will not exist again. This is another declaration of freedom, just like our 2013 budget in Osun, which we call budget of freedom.”

Aregbesola stressed the need to be free from economic slavery and acquire social emancipation and political liberation, where people can freely exercise their rights.

He said except government provides basic necessities for the people, its activities would be similar to what obtained in the era of slavery.

Former Secretary-General of the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO)

Chief Ayo Opadokun urged Nigerians to remain steadfast in the struggle to give the blackman dignity.

Opadokun said: “This inaugural celebration of the Black History in Nigeria will go a long way to show us the way forward. Everyone that is part of this celebration has added value to what we are doing here.

“In our struggle to reclaim our honour, we must appreciate that a lot of damage has been done. Though we say the youths are the leaders of tomorrow, many of them have sold their birthright. You must be prepared to change.

“We condemn the activities of our older generation that sold our people into slavery and we are determined to project the Black History

•Aregbesola

Month henceforth. Successive rulers in Nigeria, particularly the military and its surrogate, have worsened the plight of the ordinary man in Nigeria.”

Ekiti pensioners seek old people’s hospital

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HE Ekiti State branch of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP) has urged the state government to build a hospital for the elderly.

In a statement yesterday in Ado-Ekiti, the state capital, the pensioners said the hospital should be located on the premises of the Nigerian Union of Pensioners’ (NUPs’) secretariat in Ado-Ekiti.

From Sulaiman Salawudeen, Ado-Ekiti

The new NUP Chairman, Elder Ayo Kumapayi, who signed the statement, said doctors in government hospitals could be posted to the hospitals periodically to conduct medical check-ups and treat old people.

He said the move would enhance the state govern-

ment’s free medical programme for the elderly.

The statement reads: “Ekiti pensioners can be constituted into a community to benefit from the government’s free mobile community health programme being periodically rotated around local governments, using facilities of the NUP Secretariat.”

The pensioners hailed

Governor Kayode Fayemi on the Welfare Scheme for the Elderly, adding that it has brought relief to many senior citizens, who do not receive their monthly pension on a regular basis.

Members of the new executive are Deacon Dapo (Treasurer); Elder Tunde Erin (Auditor); Prince Olu Arowosebe and Mr. Gabriel Faseemo (Trustees).

11

THE NATION FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2013

BUSINESS THE NATION

E-mail:- bussiness@thenationonlineng.net

Lagos Revenue Board sues 30 firms for ‘tax default’

By Joseph Jibueze

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O fewer than 30 com panies have been sued by Lagos State Board of Internal Revenue Service (LBIRS) at the state High Court, Igbosere, for alleged non-payment of tax.

The companies include, the Civic Centre, Lagos Island; Nicon Hotel, Medical Rehabilitation and Therapist Board of Nigeria Limited; and Honeywell Fisheries Limited.

Others are Sub-Uraban Telecoms Limited, God’s Power Travels Agency, Something New Nigeria Limited, Elcochin Ventures Limietd, Oak Exclusive Designs, Gheysen Real Ltd and Advanced Logistics and Procurement Services.

Also sued were Ibile Holdings Ltd, Ibot Engineering Ltd, Kadol Medical Centre, Central Bag Manufacting, El-lab Laboratories Ltd, Niche Integrated Marketing Communications and Applied Engineering Technology Ltd. The others are Onionefe Food Ltd, De-Wazobia Hotel, Corporate Support Services, Fezel (Nig) Ltd, Orangeline Devt Ltd, Maicoy Nig Ltd, Premium Health Ltd, Reggs Securities Ltd, Pyramids Architectural Engineering PRO Ltd and Wcon Technologies Ltd. Some of the firms were said to have reached agreements with the LBIRS to settle the cases out of court after paying their debts.

Meanwhile, the court yesterday sanctioned the tax board for allegedly failing to prosecute one of the cases.

When the case against Tubbs Marine Energy was called by the court’s registrar for continuation of pre-trial proceedings, no lawyer appeared for LBIRS. The tax board was also not represented when the suit against S.U. Chao Limited was called.

This prompted the judge to suggest to the lawyer, who represented Tubbs Marine to demand for cost.

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 -11.7% 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 $43.5b FOREX CFA -0.2958 EUR -206.9 £ -242.1 $ -156 ¥ -1.9179 SDR -238 RIYAL -40.472

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

-Minister of Trade and Investment, Dr Olusegun Aganga

NAICOM to enforce ‘no premium no cover’ on govt agencies I

NSURANCE companies will no longer pro vide cover for government agencies and parastatals if they do not pay premiums promptly on their insurance.

Commissioner for Insurance, Mr Fola Daniel made this known yesterday in Ilorin, Kwara State at a workshop for media executives.

He said the Ministry of Finance will next week issue a circular directing ministries, agencies and departments to conform with the ‘no premium, no cover’ requirement as directed by National Insurance Commission (NAICOM).

He said the government was no longer comfortable with the low level contribution of insurance to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

The commissioner said that the issue of ‘no premium no cover’ regime would not be limited individuals and corporate institutions.

By Ayodele Aminu, Group Business Editor

He said the government agencies and institutions, which hitherto shun the insurance of their assets would be made not only to insure them, but make immediate payment of premium.

Analysts who accuse the government of lacking in maintenance of strategic national monuments are already applauding the new resolve on effective insurance as a way of minimising waste.

It would be recalled that the government at both the state and federal level have been accused of not embracing insurance culture with the government accounting for the bulk of the over N200 billion owed insurance companies in the country as un-

paid premium.

On whether the government and her agencies would be involved in the enforcement of the ‘no premium, no cover’ regime, Mr Daniel said the era of the government treating insurance with levity was over.

“From our internal studies at NAICOM, Nigeria would attain rapid and sustained growth if it deepens its insurance penetration whereby more members of the population buy one or more of the available insurance products,” he said.

The commissioner listed South Africa and Kenya as countries, which have leveraged on insurance to grow their economy.

“NAICOM is at the final stages of developing a reliable micro-insurance framework with clear rules for invest-

ments and an inherent flexibility with a view to giving insurance providers the needed clarity and freedom to use innovative means to reach this large but undeserved segment of the market”, he said.

The commissioner expressed happiness that the framework designed for the oil and gas insurance has helped insurance companies raise their involvement in that sector to over 30 per cent and with a set target of 70 per cent in line with the government’s local content policy.

He encouraged insurance companies to position themselves to take advantage of the unfolding microwave regime. He added that efforts were afoot to develop guideline for takaful insurance, which is the insurance variant of islamic banking.

• From left: Head, Corporate and Investment Banking Research, Stanbic IBTC Holding Plc, Ms Rele Adesina; Chief Executive Officer, Stanbic IBTC Stockbrokers Limited, Mr Dele Sotubo; Chief Executive Officer, Stanbic IBTC Holding Plc, Mrs Sola David-Borha and Head, Global Market Sales, Mr Akeem Oyewale at a briefing on the Stanbic Bank’s on the upcoming West PHOTO: BOLA OMILABU Africa Investors conference in Lagos.

EFCC urges states to join anti-corruption battle

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HE Chairman, Eco nomic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) Mr Ibrahim Larmode yesterday asked state governments to complement the efforts of the Federal Government in the battle against corruption.

He spoke in Abuja at the launch of Phase 11 of the Technical Unit on Governance and Anti-Corruption Reforms (TUGAR) study in the public finance management system in Nigeria.

Lamorde, who was represented by the commission’s Secretary, Mr Emmanuel Akomoye, said: “We want to see states initiate investigations. Even where the states have anti-corruption laws, we are yet to see the result of what they are doing at the state level.“ He noted that whereas the battle against corruption has

From John Ofikhenua, Abuja

recorded a huge success at the federal level, state governments are yet to initiate investigation in line with their laws.

The EFCC boss expressed surprise that Nigerians are clamouring for new legislation on anti-corruption when existing ones are yet to be implemented.

He, therefore, called on the citizenry to ensure that existing laws are implemented.

The Director-General, Nigerian Drugs Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) , Mr Femi Ajaiye, said the structures of most of the agencies that battle corruption in Nigeria are weak, adding that they lack the wherewithal to implement the anti-graft laws.

He cited some NDLEA

commands that do not have have standard cells and as such its personnel must keep vigil to safeguard them.

He said: The NDLEA, for instance, sometimes you see them punishing people for crimes that they did not commit. For instance, I was part of a board on the issue of what you call jail break. The issue is that most of the NDLEA commands do not have what we call standard cells. And in some of the cells, even a pregnant woman can escape, because they are not standard cells.”

The Chairman, Nigerian Extractive Industries Transparency (NEITI), Mr Ledum Mitee, said the report that was being launched would boost the anti-corruption database, which TUGAR is working on, bringing to 16 the number of states whose PFM system have been

scoped and analysed.

The survey covered nine states.

He said TUGAR, ICPC, Bureau for Public Procurement (BPP) and EFCC and other anti-corruption agencies are working on a project to certify and deploy corruption risk assessors who will look at the procedure and structures within government establishment, and identify areas that are vulnerable to corruption and institute integrity plans.

NEITI Executive Secretary, Hajiya Zainab Ibrahim said: “We welcome the on-going corruption risk assessment project TUGAR is carrying out in cooperation with other IATT members. We, particularly, welcome the pilot assessments being planned in selected Ministries Departments and Agencies.”

Fed Govt boosts mass transit with N15b From Augustine Ehikioya, Abuja

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O encourage patron age of locally manu factured Mass Transit Buses, the Federal Government has dedicated N15 billion for interested individuals to be drawn from The Infrastructure Bank, Public Mass Transit Revolving Fund (PMTF).

The fund, which is at zero per cent interest, can only be accessed by operators of Mass Transit Services in the country specifically for the purchase of the buses.

Vice President Namadi Sambo, in a statement yesterday by his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Umar Sani, made made this known when he chaired the special meeting of the Special Committee on National Mass Transit Framework at the State House in Abuja.

Noting that the funds was meant for the purchase of locally manufactured buses, he stressed the importance of accessing cheap financing to encourage local manufacture of the mass transit buses.

“There is a specific zero per cent interest rate money for the transporters to access but only to buy from local manufacturers,” he stated He also directed the Ministry of Trade and Investment to meet with local automobile manufacturers to ascertain their production capacity to meet demand by operators.

According to him, the funds will also be extended to mass transit service in the country’s waterways and the railways.

The Vice President also set up a committee to be chaired by the Governor of Anambra State, Mr Peter Obi, to come up with terms for easy access to these funds by the operators. The committee is to submit its report in two weeks.

PTDF laments non-employment of trained hands From John Ofikhenua, Abuja

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HE Petroleum Tech nology Development Fund (PTDF) has expressed concern over the failure of government to employ its trainees despite the huge funds spent on their specialised post-graduate oil and gas training abroad.

The Acting Executive Secretary of the fund, Jolomi Arenyeka, who spoke at a ceremony in Abuja yesterday where 15 certified Nigerians, who had just completed drilling engineering training at the French Institute of Petroleum (IFP), were presented with their certficates, said the agency was ready to pay stipends for trainees who would be taken on internship.

Arenyeka, said it cost the nation about 50,000 euro (N10.5million) to train one graduate.

THE NATION FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2013

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NEWS Court affirms senator as Daily Times chairman From Kamarudeen Ogundele, Abuja

A

Federal Capital Territory High Court yesterday affirmed Senator Ikechukwu Obiora as the Chairman of the Daily Times of Nigeria Plc. Delivering judgment in the suit by the firm, Mr. Justice Aliyu Mohammed held that there is no uncertainty in the affairs of the company relating to its share capital, shareholders, directors, chairman and secretary.

The defendants are 3DOM Limited and the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC). The court granted a declaration that the resolution of the plaintiff to remove some directors while retaining a few and appointing others made on February 1 and 2, 2010 and certified by the Corporate Affairs Commission on February 5, 2010 is valid and subsisting.

It declared that “the current directors of the Daily Times of Nigeria Plc, the plaintiff, to the exclusion of others are: Ikechukwu Obiora, Chinedu Oranuba, Adetokunbo Kayode, Umar Na’Abba Ghali, Chudi Ofodile, Muniru Abiola, Emeka Mbonu, Zakariya Usman Mohammed and Rashidr Adepoju.”

It also held that the current shareholders of the Daily Times of Nigeria Plc and shares held by them are Arkngel Global Limited 70,126,045; Bontez Corporate and Allied Services Limited, 70,126,045; DSV Limited 93,501,938; Sundary Shareholders 9,600; Independence Day Publications Limited 1,542,643,161 and Wiparquet Limited with 1,542,643,161 shares.

UNILAG Council appoints Oni as Deputy Vice-Chancellor

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HE University of Lagos (UNILAG) Governing Council has approved the appointment of Prof. Duro Oni as the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Management Services) with effect from February 4.

The approval followed his election by the Senate on January 30. An indigene of Iwoye-Ijesa, Osun State, Prof. Oni was born on December 15, 1952 in Minna, Niger State. He attended the University of Ibadan (1971 to 1973 and 1998 to 2002) and the California Institute of the Arts, United States of America (1981 to 1983).

Prof. Oni began his career as a Theatre Technician at the Centre for Nigerian Cultural Studies of the Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, (1973 to 1976). He joined the services of the University of Lagos in October 1976 as Head, Auditoria Management/Theatre Technical Manager in the defunct Centre for Cultural Studies. His career progression witnessed his appointment as the Director of the Centre for Cultural Studies in 1992. When the Centre metamorphosed into the Department of Creative Arts, he was appointed a Senior Lecturer in the Department in 1997, Associate Professor in 2001 and Professor in 2005.

Two die of Lassa fever in Ebonyi

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WO people have died in Ebonyi State following an outbreak of Lassa fe-

ver.

Six cases were reported, of which two are dead. Two others are receiving treatment while the other two are undergoing laboratory analysis.

The state government yesterday urged the Federal Ministry of Health to accelerate the establishment of a virology laboratory in the state for the diagnosis and treatment of the fever.

The Commissioner for Health, Dr Sunday Nwangele,

From Ogbonnaya Obinna, Abakaliki

spoke in Abakaliki, the state capital, when he received a rapid response team of medical experts, which visited the state to curtail the outbreak of the fever.

The team was led by Prof Sunday Omilabu, a virologist with the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH).

The outbreak was traced to one of the quarters in Abakaliki Local Government.

Dr Nwangele said the ministry would sustain the aware-

ness campaign to avoid further outbreak of the disease.

Prof Omilabu, who was accompanied by other officials of the Federal Ministry of Health and World Health Organisation (WHO), said their mission was to control the outbreak, provide treatment and technical support to the state.

According to him, the Federal Government is working hard to break the cycle of outbreaks, which often occurs during the dry season.

The Deputy Director, Health Emergency Response and Disaster Management, Mr John

Kehinde, said the team had carried out sensitisation and workshops for clinicians, health workers as well as other groups.

He said it had also screened over 1,000 hospital records and collected about 46 blood samples for laboratory analysis.

The team presented drugs and other medical items.

The drugs include 12,000 rivabrine tablets, 12,000 injections and 100 personal protective equipment, to complement the state government's efforts at combating the disease.

MASSOB writes Jonathan, UN on members’ death T HE Movement for the Actualisation of the Sovereign State of Biafra (MASSOB) yesterday said nine of its members were among the mystery bodies found in Ezu River at Amansea, Anambra State and Enugu State boundary.

The group has written to President Goodluck Jonathan, the United Nations Human Rights Commission (UNHRC) and Amnesty International to prevent its members from further extra-judicial killings by security agents.

In a statement by its National Director of Information, Comrade Uchenna Madu, MASSOB decried the killing of its members and throwing their bodies into the river.

It also wrote the United States President Barack Obama and the United Nations (UN) Secretary-General, Mr. Ban KiMoon.

MASSOB described itself as a non-violent organisation agitating for a separate nation that would be carved out of Nige-

•’We lost nine in Ezu River’ From Nwanosike Onu, Awka

ria.

The group alleged that the nine members were arrested by the security agents on November 9, last year, and had not been seen.

It said efforts by its lawyer that the detainees be charged to court proved abortive.

MASSOB also alleged that some of its members and rela-

tives of the detained members were denied access to the suspects and prevented for assisting them with medical supplies.

“Efforts by our legal team to secure their bail from the security agents were futile. Our demands for their arraignment before a competent court of law were were frustrated by the officers.”

“We suspect that some of the

•MASSOB leader Nwazuruike

Ralph

bodies found in Ezu River at Awka, Anambra State, might be those of our members detained by security agents.

‘Let’s run with the message’ Text of National Leader of Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), Asiwaju Bola Tinubu’s speech at the launch of a book: Accidental Civil Servant by former Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Mallam Nasir el-Rufai in Abuja... yesterday.

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CCIDENTS do happen and yes often times only a few of those accidents are good ones. Nasir’s accident with and in the civil service was a good and impactful one.

That is why today we have a book as testimony to that accidental experience. For every accident in life, one must pause to appraise the situation, an evaluation of why it happened, the circumstances and lessons learnt are critical to whatever future decisions one has to take.

Many talk about their accidents in life, be it in public or in private, but only a few dare document it and share it in such a bold, blunt and daring manner like Nasir has done in the pages of his book, The Accidental Civil Servant. In the pages of his book, we learn wisdom, we glean brilliance and we are exposed to the follies, fooleries and vainness of power. We see exposed, as mere mortals, even those invested with enormous powers to lead Nigeria and direct our lives.

It is a book yet unrivaled in the annals of our history. The alacrity of its expositions, the candour with which the narrative unfolds and the intimacy of its revelations grant a delightful read and delivers an impactful work. Nasir was just not a spectator or a bystander; he was a player, constantly in the ring who later became one of the captains that battled for the soul of Nigeria. Nasir was not just an eyewitness to power, he had his whole body in the power arena and that is why we must not be in a hurry to dismiss some of the most troubling revelations in his book.

In as much as Nasir may not and cannot exonerate himself from all that happened, he has chosen a road less travelled by “telling it all”. One of “Yesterdays” men is coming clean.

The power and courage of Nasir’s work is not just in the carefully woven narrative but in the mere fact that the key figures he has written about are still alive and perhaps only one or two of them are dead. Hence, Nigerians should expect to get a few reactions and if lucky, see more books churned out by a few who think Nasir has only told the story of that era from his own angle.

The most riveting of his narrative remains the criminal third term enterprise and how those elected to help build democracy worked tirelessly to subvert democratic tenets and turn Nigeria into a personal fiefdom. The compelling power of Nasir’s work is the fact that he has exposed us to the mindset of those that Nigerians have entrusted with power. He has captured the psychology of our leaders simply by exposing the underhand deals and bad boy behaviour of a big man president.

Nasir is an angry man and that is

understandable. He is weighed down by the failure of the project a few of them under the government they served envisioned. He has demonstrated in his revelations how most of those entrusted with power even at that time could not shed their baggage and put Nigeria first.

His book is not just a window into our world. It has opened a door that leads us into seeing up, close and personal what Nigeria is and how those that wield power behave and misbehave. It is a book with the potential for a long shelf life and will remain a reference point for journalists, pundits, analysts and most of those in and out of power. Most importantly, the academia and students of Political Science will benefit from it.

Thanks to Nasir, we now know that most of our leaders are soon overcome and consumed by their unbridled lust to power and that the public or Nigerians are mere irritants. Their protests and complaints are insignificant in a situation of absolute power and too much money. The resources of the country that ought to have been deployed to better the lives of the people are being used against them to perpetuate them in poverty and political enslavement.

Nasir, through this book has challenged all the others that took that power ride with him to come out and tell their stories. Nigerians want to know. However, most gratifying is the fact that some of what we knew happened and which we fought against have been confirmed by Nasir.

Sadly, the Nigerian narrative has not changed from what it was during the time Nasir has written about. The narrative has unfortunately worsened whereby Nigerians are saddled with a government concerned more about its survival, elongation in power and fighting imagined enemies than applying itself to running the country properly. Nasir tells us Nigeria still has a long way to go and the architects of a new Nigeria are not yet in place.

What we have now are wayfarers, scavengers in the corridor of power and apologists, professionals whose ethics evaporate the moment they come in contact with the paraphernalia of power.

But there is help coming. Help is on the way as the opposition moves to form a broad based coalition that will send these characters out of power and put into gear the Nigerian project.

I commend Nasir for this rare courage. He has brought us closer to the truth and told us to our faces that there is something wrong with all of us, including him. Rather than shoot the messenger, let us take the message and run with it. We need more accidents like Nasir’s.

KESHI 'understands' Yobo’s situation

Pg. 14

Sport Friday, February 8, 2013

PAGE 13

WE PLAYED Brazil, not Nigeria —Samassa

CAF suspends semi-final ref Ideye hails Eagles’ mentality Pg. 14

Emenike, Moses missing in training Pg. 41

Pg. 14

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NATIONSPORT FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2013

AFCON 2013...AFCON 2013...AFCON 2013...AFCON 2013...AFCON 2013...AFCON 2013...AFCON 2013...AFCON 2013...AFCON 2013...AFCON 2013...AFCON 2013...AFCON 2013

KESHI 'understands' Yobo’s situation

Ideye hails Eagles’ mentality

Emenike, Moses missing in training

•Promises more goals

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YNAMO KEIV of Ukrain forward, Brown Ideye has said that the Super Eagles have the right mentality that will secure the Africa Cup of Nations trophy in the finals slated for South Africa on Sunday.

"I am very proud and happy with our mentality. We have show the world that we are the team to beat in Africa. Nobody gave us a chance but we had to motivate ourselves. Because we are all professionals and we know the pride in winning a trophy. I am very much proud once again and I believe winning the trophy on Sunday is a new beginning for Nigerian football." Ideye said.

He continued: "After our first

From Innocent Amomoh, Johannesburg game, we were totally condemned but we have showed that we are not failures. But I will still like to thank everybody because without those criticism we might not have gotten to this stage but we are always on course to make the country proud.

"It's obviously a big challenge for us and I believe we will end it well."

"It's always an important time.

We have shown the desire to win the trophy. The match against Ivory Coast and Mali have increased our confidence.”

Avoid body contact, Eguavoen, Obaseki advise Eagles From, Osemwengie Ben Ogbemudia, Benin

NATION SPORT

Pitroipa dubs Eagles 'phenomenal’

EAGLES ARRIVE IN Johannesburg, begin training

•Maigari begins mobilisation

•Doctors sweat on fitness •Eagles’ camp bubble

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HE duo of Victor Moses and Emannuel Emenike were sighted swathed in bandages on Thursday. Others in the Super Eagles’ squad were in full training ahead of Sunday's final match against Burkina Faso.

Moses had an injury in the 4-1 thrashing of Mali in the semi-final match of the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations semi-final match.

The 22-year old speedster raised concerns about being injured after contributing two goals on Wednesday afternoon.

After the game, he confirmed that the damage was not as serious as he first thought and vowed to play in the final against Burkina Faso - Nigeria's first final since 2000.

"I am fit to play. It wasn't anything serious and I look forward to playing in the final," he said.

However, doctors are optimistic that Mose and Emenike would play in the finals on Sunday. All hands are on deck to ensure that they play.

It is, however, believed that Emenike’s injury is not serious.

Emenike injured his right leg during the semi-final victory over Mali while shooting for goal but has scored four goals so far in the

From Ade Ojeikere, South Africa tournament with two assists to top the goals chart at the AFCON in South Africa.

He suffered what looked like a hamstring injury while shooting from long range at goal against Mali on Wednesday.

In the same vein, the home-based players have vowed to go into the record books just as they hope to increase their chances in other major tournament for the country.

The likes of Joseph Yobo, Vincent Enyeama and other old members of the Eagles squad are insisting on the trophy.

•Moses

Dangote splashes N130m on Eagles for reaching Finals

•Eguavoen •Super Eagles in training

CAF suspends semi-final ref

•Slim Jdidi

Go for victory, Mark urges Eagles Firm salutes Super Eagles

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ENATE President, David Mark, yesterday said that he will represent the Senate at the 2013 African Cup of Nations final holding on Sunday in South Africa .

Mark stated this on the floor of the Senate as part of his commendation for the superlative performance of the Super Eagles in the on-going AFCON tournament.

The Super Eagles trounced the Malian team yesterday to zoom into the final slated for Sunday.

Mark said, “The prayer groups must intensify their prayers because it is the final

From Onyedi Ojiabor, Assistant Editor victory that will crown us the champions of football in Africa .

“I believe that very many of you who watched yesterday’s (Wednesday) match will agree with me that the Super Eagles flew very well.

“I will go to South Africa to represent all of you on Sunday.

“So we need serious prayers. So far our prayers have spurred the Super Eagles into action. I commend them for a job well done and urge them to go all out on Sunday and bring the cup home.”

THE NATION FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2013

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THE NATION FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2013

EMPOWERMENT

WELFARE

CARE

Abia trains 300 youths

Uduaghan to build houses for civil servants

Rotary maps out plans for widows

Abia

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Delta

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2013

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NAMBRA State Governor Peter Obi has handed over 50 armoured vehicles to the police.

Inspector-General of Police Muhammed Abubakar took delivery of the vehicles on behalf of the state command.

The gesture was warmly received, but it was indeed one of the governor’s strategies to curb crime in the state.

For instance, there has not been any reported case of violent armed robbery or kidnapping in the state recently.

The state was peaceful and calm during the Yuletide. People who returned from Christmas holi-

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Anambra

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Email: news_extra@yahoo.com

Obi gives police armoured cars From Odogwu Emeka Odogwu, Nnewi

days moved freely from one community to the other.

Newsextra gathered that over 300 people were kidnapped before the Obi administration started demolishing the hideouts of kidnappers and their associates. This action dislodged many kidnappers.

The fear before Christmas was that many would not return home as a result of increased kidnapping

and violent robbery that characterised the Southeast. The Campaign for Democracy rated the region, including Anambra, a kidnappers’ zone. Governor Obi reassured that the state would be safe and calm.

To ensure that his promise to the people was fulfilled, the governor embarked on a comprehensive mobilisation of the citizens to be part of security efforts. He engaged them in a series of meetings with security operatives. That paid off as many citizens hailed the hitch-free Christmas

and New Year festivities.

Many residents are quick to attribute the absence of crime within the period to Obi’s effective strategies on security.

A community leader, Chief Anthony Agidigbo Oguejiofor and a publisher, Mr. Ethel Uyanna had congratulated Governor Obi on giving the people ‘another peaceful Christmas season.’

Chief Oguejiofor and Uyanna said that the governor’s extraordinary commitment to issues of security of

lives and property in the state had resulted in reduction of crime rate over the years.

“However, this state of protection is better appreciated in this festive period. He said: “In December every year, the governor gives N2m to each of the 177 communities in Anambra State for security arrangements and palliative work on rural roads. By sustaining that arrangement, he has achieved results.”

They further observed that this was consolidated with the governor’s empowerment of unemployed youths.

•Continued on Page 45

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CLEARLY thought-out job creation scheme is yielding fruit in Osun State and beneficiaries are excited about it. On assumption of office in November 2010, Governor Rauf Aregbesola said something unusual. In 100 days, he said, his administration would provide jobs for 20,000 youths in the state. About 30 days after that declaration, recruitment began and the Osun Youth Employment Scheme (OYES) was born.

Two years on, the first set of cadets has just graduated at a colourful ceremony at the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) camp in Ede, a town of rolling hills in the state. The event was witnessed by a large number of dignitaries from across the country.

Through the scheme, the Aregbesola administration set out to achieve a number of things. One was job creation, to keep unemployed youths out of redundancy and mischief, and by engaging them, strengthen the state economy. Another was to prove that it was possible to employ a significant number of youths in a very short space of time. One other reason for setting up the OYES was to inspire cadets and other Osun residents to value themselves and see dignity in labour and service, and themselves as change agents.

Ogbeni Aregbesola captured all that in one word: “Omoluabi”, in local parlance.

At the graduation ceremony, the cadets strutted with confidence, clad in their khaki overalls. In the scheme, many of them learnt to operate the computer and even to repair it. Many can make good quality shoes. A good number can sew. Some others are rearing livestock, poultry and fish. Many are making much-coveted red bricks, and others have mastered the processing of several local meals.

“OYES has helped us by giving us boots to make,” Mr Jimoh Lateef Alani told Newsextra, standing before various well-made footwear on display. “We have been given an opportunity to do something for ourselves. May be government will give us machines when we pass out.”

Miss Temitope Jegede, a computer graduate, is happy to render

•Cadets burnt brick makers

Osun relishes jobs scheme Beneficiaries happy to be engaged From Adesoji Adeniyi, Osogbo

service to the state as a sheriff guard.

In that capacity, alongside other colleagues, she supervises nurses in the hospitals just to ensure that everybody is doing their work well. But she added that her joy is that the scheme has saved her from idleness, or “going here and there,” as she put it. Jegede also emphasised that as sheriff guards, there is no highhandedness or compulsion in their duties, only to ensure that workers

are doing their best.

The OYES has made a strong impact on Osogbo, the state capital, as well other parts of the state. Cadets are helping in traffic management and also in ridding the towns and cities of waste.

It is this area that female cadets have surprised many. In five days, women learnt to drive refuse trucks and have been helping to keep the state capital clean. Men also drive the trucks but it is their female counterparts who have stolen the show.

Funmilola Adegoke, one of the fe-

male drivers, told Newsextra that the scheme has helped her in many ways.

So did Hafusat Popoola and Odunmorayo Ilesanmi, other female drivers. As they spoke they exuded the air of contentment, even conscious of the fact that they have demystified a job once done exclusively by men.

Corporate organisations like First Bank are partnering with the state, providing some cash and tools. The World Bank recommended the •Continued on Page 45

•Governor Rauf Aregbesola

THE NATION FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2013

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Delta to build houses for civil servants

NDDC opens waterway

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•Governor Dickson

HE Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has inaugurated the six kilometre Foropa Community canalised coastal waterway linking Digetoru River in Bayelsa State.

With this development, the canal is now positioned to facilitate trade and commerce which will in turn boost commercial and social activities in the area.

Inaugurating the project, NDDC Managing Director, Dr. Christian Oboh restated the commission’s commitment to variables that would ease transportation of goods and services in the region.

Represented by the Bayelsa State Representative on the board of the commission, Edi Orubo, he maintained that the project was in

Abia trains 300 youths

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BIA State government has designed a training programme for 300 youths drawn from all the 17 local government areas of the state as part of its youth empowerment programme.

The youths will be trained in computer operation, interior decoration, photography and video, fashion and design among others, while the best graduating trainees will be given special empowerment by the state government.

The programme is a collaboration between the office of the wife of the Abia State Governor, the Sure-P and the National Directorate of Employment, NDE and other donor agencies.

Addressing participants at the formal opening of the programme in Umuahia, wife of Abia State Governor Mrs. Mercy Odochi Orji charged the participants to take advantage of the programme to make their lives better.

Mrs Orji noted that the programme was the state government’s contribution to the development of the youth, saying that they must

Abia From Ugochukwu Ugoji-Eke, Umuahia

abide by the regulations of the programme in order to qualify for the facilities attached to it. She said: “In pursuance of this, you are to fully complete and submit the monthly course work, maintain 100per cent class attendance each month, failure to meet the above requirement will result in the forfeiture of the monthly allowance”.

The governor’s wife said that to qualify for the start-up equipment, the trainees are also required to have 100 per cent total attendance, attend three months internship with an established organisation in the choice skill and make at least 50 per cent pass mark in the final examination.

Speaking at the programme, chairman of Sure-P in the state, Chief Chris Nkwonta represented by Prof Onwukwe Alaezi, said the money accruing from the petroleum subsidy would be reinvested in the programme to make life better for the youth.

Bayelsa line with NDDC’s mandate to develop Niger Delta communities, no matter how remote.

Why emphasising that the canalisation would also open up communities along the coastline and boost the tourism potential of the area, Dr. Oboh disclosed that his administration will sustain the achievements recorded so far.

In a welcome address jointly signed by the traditional ruler of Foropa Kingdom, Chief Atthanatius Allison and 15 other community leaders, the people noted that the canalisation was the first Federal Government project in the area.

“Our happiness can only be compared to that of Mungo Park, the Scottish explorer of the River Niger in 1804; we lack words to express our gratitude for this laudable project which now serves as a highway in this coastal region”, they said.

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•From left: Sister Ajibabi Andrew-Thomas; Sister Yewande Akapo; Sister Funlola Ladipo; Brother Kunle Osinaike; Sir Deinde Williams, Brother Adeoye Thomas and Sir Segun George at the dedication of the Akintola Willaims Library at Wesley Cathedral, Ologbowo, Lagos

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HE District Governor of Rotary International, District 9110, Dr Kamoru Omotosho has appealed to the people of Sangotedo in Ajah area of Lagos State to protect the projects which the club has put in place for their benefit.

Speaking during the commissioning of some projects initiated by the Victoria Garden City Rotary Club (VGC), Ajah, last week, he noted that if all hands were on deck to protect the projects they would last longer than expected.

Omotosho explained that it was not enough to commission projects but their sustainability. This he said should not be left in the hands of few but all members of the community who are the sole beneficia-

Rotary inaugurates projects

By Musa Odoshimokhe

ries.

“I must commend you for turning out in large number to witness the commissioning of these projects which are done for your benefit. It is therefore, very important that these projects are not only protected but guarded jealously. I must say that Rotarians come and go but these projects will remain with you.”

Also speaking, President of the Victoria Garden City Rotary Club, former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) governor, Mr. Joseph Sanusi enjoined the people not to relent in their support for the club because, the club

Clerics preach religious tolerance

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ELIGIOUS tolerance and the need for righteousness were the thrust of the dedication of the 26, Olayinka Street, Osaro, Akute, Ogun State Restoration Parish of the Motailatu Church Cherubim and Seraphim Worldwide.

At the event, the St. B.A Adekahunsi House was also opened in the premises of the sanctuary amid soul-lifting songs from the church’s choir.

The National Coordinator of the Oodua Peoples Congress (OPC), Otunba Gani Adams, who was Special Guest and chief launcher of the church’s new calendar, led the message of religious tolerance when he rose amid thunderous ovation to address the ecstatic congregation.

“It may surprise many that I’m here today.

But one fact that is unknown to many is that I’m a practising Christian, besides the fact that I’m married to a wife from a well-established Christian background. All religions today, be they Christianity, Islam or traditional worship, preach one thing: Total righteousness and unalloyed reverence for God, our Creator. This is what I believe in as I fight for the emancipation of mankind from undue bondage,” Adams said.

He spoke further: “There are Christians as well as Muslims in OPC. We don’t discriminate since it does not bear negatively on our mission. This

By Dada Aladelokun

is what I want Nigerians to imbibe to cement the unity of this country.”

In their respective sermons, the Parish’s Senior Superintendent Gabriel Akinadewo and Pastor James Akinadewo echoed Adams’ views, maintaining in unison that religious intolerance is a major enemy of the nation’s unity, saying that the time had come for all to sink their religious differences to move the nation on the right path.

Hearty words of appreciation flowed from all the clerics at the event for the exemplary virtues and vision of His Eminence, Archbishop Isaiah M. Akinadewo, Primate, Prophet, Founder and Supreme Head, Motailatu Organisation Worldwide.

Superintendent Akinadewo urged the congregation and the guests to remain steadfast in Godliness and de-emphasise materialism which he regretted, was fast eroding people’s commitment to the ideals of Christianity.

“We have so much committed ourselves to mundane things which have no place in the Great Beyond. Salvation must be our focus in the Christendom now because it is the only sure path to eternal life. With this, the pressure on our society today from people’s criminal tendencies will be reduced, the Superintendent added.

• From left: Otunba Adams, Superintendent Akinadewo, Pastor Akinadewo and other clerics at the event

exist for humanity purpose.

Sanusi who explained that his being at the occasion was almost marred by problems associated with the flight he too to Lagos, remarked that it was by God’s divine grace that the plane touched down safely.

He said: “The plane I was coming with was over running its schedule and the pilot was getting worried. He told us that the fuel was getting exhausted, so we had to look for the nearest airport and we flew to Cotonou and he landed safely there. We were there for two hours and then took off and came to Lagos safely.”

Sanusi maintained that just as the people were celebrating the projects he initiated, he was equally thankful to God who had spared his family any untoward agony and for being with the people who were highly awaiting his presence.

Some of the projects commissioned include two boreholes of 50 meters apart for adequate capacity, 30,000 litres of ground tank storage, processing room for filtration units and pumps, three drinking houses (18 taps each), one for each of the schools on the premises, and public water access house of six taps.

ACN denies rumour From Tayo Johnson, Ibadan

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•From left: Mrs. Susan Omotosho, Dr. Omotosho and Chief Sanusi

Cancer prevention campaign launched

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NON-Governmental Organisation NGO, Centre for Women and Youths Wellbeing Advocacy (WOYWA) has flagged off the awareness campaign on prevention and treatment of cancer among women in Ondo State.

The programme, which was held at Isikan Market, Isikan, Akure, was part of the activities set out by the NGO to mark 2013 World Cancer Day. Speaking at the flag-off programme, Wife of the State Governor, Mrs. Olukemi Mimiko, implored women in the state to see their health as a paramount issue. She advised them to go for regular screening and treatment to tame the spread of the cancer virus in their body.

Mrs.Mimiko, who said that being diagnosed with cancer virus is not a death certificate, stressed that early detection of cancer either in the breast or the cervix would help in treating the disease at early stage and prevent its spread to other parts of the body.

“We appeal to our women particularly those who have attained the ages of thirty years and above to go for cancer screening. Doing so would help them know their cancer status early enough. Health is weath.Our women must place their well being above all material pursuits.

They must realise that they need to go for screening on regular basis to ensure that they are not harbouring cancer in their bodies,” the governor’ wife counselled.

Mrs. Kemi Mimiko who told the gathering that having cancer is not a death warrant, assured that screening would lead to early prevention, detection and better management.

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“Having cancer is no longer a death warrant.

If we go for screening and we detect cancer on the patient we can begin the treament before its spread to other parts of the body”.

She spoke further that the state government under the administration of Dr. Olusegun Mimiko has provided a state -of- the- earth medical facility for diagnosis and treatment of cancer.

Prayer for the nation

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N the face of growing insecurity in the country, the Joint Muslims’ Action Forum (JOMAF) Osun State chapter will organise a prayer for the nation tomorrow.

The programme tagged The Nation Prays will hold at the Government College, Osogbo, Osun State capital.

The trio of Director, Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC), Prof Is-haq Lakin Akintola; The Nation newspaper columnist Dr Femi Abbas and Ustaz Abdul Rasheed Buwaed are the guests speakers.

Likewise, goodwill messages would be delivered by President-General, League of Imams and Alfas, South-West, edo and Delta, Sheikh Mustapha Ajisafe; President, Osun State Muslim Community, Sheikh Salaudeen Olayiwola and National Missioner, Ansar-ud-Deen Society of Nigeria, Sheikh AbdurRahman Ahmad.

According to the Chairman of the association, Alhaji Kola Usaamat, the prayer is aimed at seeking Allah’s blessings for the nation to achieve peace and security.

HE Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) in Oyo State has denied rumours of the suspension of a chieftain of the party, Alhaji Abass Oloko.

The party also warned the Oyo State chapter of Jama’tul Islamic Society of Nigeria to desist from making unguided statements and overheating the polity with such unfounded claims.

The Islamic group had in a report during the week, claimed that Alhaji Abass Oloko had been suspended from the ACN over fallouts of an alleged assault on the Chairman of the state’s Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, Alhaji Taofeek Akewugbagold, among other wrong behaviours.

The group, in the report also advised the state helmsman, Governor Abiola Ajimobi to beware of sycophants and praise singers who do not wish him well.

In a statement refuting the suspension claim, the party’s Public Relations Officers, Alhaji Dauda Kolawole, said that Oloko was still a member of the party and no suspension letter was issued on him.

According to Kolawole, Alhaji Oloko has been a vibrant member of the party for more than three years and has never been involved in any act of violence that warrants suspension. He also warned Jama’atul Islamic Society to stop interfering in the party’s affairs.

“No announcement has been made that he was suspended, so we do not know where the group got their own facts from. Our party does not chase away vibrant members like Alhaji Oloko because he is a peaceful fellow and he is working tirelessly for the progress of our party” the statement reads In his own reaction, Alhaji Abass Oloko described the islamic group as a faceless one being sponsored by unscrupulous persons in the state to destroy his image, adding that they should desist from doing such or face the wrath of the law.

ELTA STATE Commissioner for Economic Planning, Chief Kenneth Okpara, says the state government will soon embark on housing schemes for public servants on owner-occupier basis.

According to the commissioner, the project will address the housing challenge being faced by civil servants in the state.

Okpara told journalists in Asaba that government had concluded plans to introduce a social housing policy.

He said the thrust policy of the current administration was to provide qualitative and affordable houses to low, medium and high income earners.

Okpara said that the policy would be enduser driven and to be facilitated by development agents through public private partnership agreement.

He said with the partnership arrangement, modern housing estates would be delivered in the state.

Delta He said when the policy was fully implemented, it would help to consolidate and sustain the tempo of housing reforms.

The commissioner also said that government had concluded plans to construct estates in its three senatorial districts.

“These estates, when completed, would go a long way in addressing the challenge of housing faced by civil servants.

“The state is proposing N1 billion for this project and this amount has been captured in the 2013 budget of the state,’’ he said.

He added that the state government had also concluded plans to construct rural housing schemes in three local government areas.

Okpara said the schemes would be located at Ozoro in Isoko North, Ibusa in Oshimili North and Abigbrodo in Warri North local government areas.

Council presents budget

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HE Chairman, Ikeja Local Government, Hon Wale Odunlami, has presented a budget of N890,389,401,25k to the Legislative arm.It is tagged: Budget of Stability.

•Hon. Odunlami (left) presenting the budget to Hon Arangbonfoh in the council chambers

Church holds programme All is set for this year Valentine Fiesta Season three at Agape Worship Centre along 6, Zion Close, off Kosoko Road, Ojodu-Berger, Lagos.

The theme is: Love: The Essence of Life The programme will take place on Thursday, February 14 at 5pm.

Speaking on the programme, the Chief Host.

Dr. David Odi, said it is a social re-engineering platform targeted at re-orientating the youth generally from all works of life in true essence of love.

David who is also the senior Pastor of the ministries however stated that the forum will afford leadership and entrepreneurship training for the entire youth adding, it is also fashioned towards helping, harnessing, discovering and maximising potential of the youth.

The high point include, comedy, dancing, Barbecue and lots of fun. Prizes are to be won. and participants are expected to put on red top and jeans trouser/shirt respectively.

•Governor Uduaghan

By Duro Babayemi

The council chief emphasised that the budget was christened Budget of Stability due to the fact that it was deliberately tailored to maintain and sustain the infrastructural and socio-economic gains achieved by the previous budgets and equally to make unique in-roads into new areas.

He stressed that the 2013 budget strives to consolidate on the gains of the recent year’s budget.

A look at the capital expenditure profile revealed that the work and infrastructural section took a lead with N247m followed by the education sector with N65m.Health will take N24m .

The council chair further said that renewed effort would be made to increase the revenue profile of the local government, calling on the stakeholders present to cooperate further to meet their expectations Responding, the Leader of the Legislative House, Hon Edward Arangbonfoh, promised to promptly look at the proposal and facilitate arly passage.He equally urged the stakeholders to respond appropriately by paying all necessary rates, dues and levies in order to prove their support for the local government.

NGO, firm partner on youth development

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N the spirit of the season’s love and social responsibility to the society, a non-governmental organisation, Citinet Group is to partner Tabande Nig. Ltd, a transport firm to develop the youth.

It will host children from orphanages on February 14 in Lagos.

According to the co-ordinator, Mr Ola Akintonwa, it’s an annual programme meant to encourage the youth to be more serious in their studies. “We give scholarship orphans with outstanding academic potential.

Speaking on the programme,the CEOs of Tabande Nig. Ltd, Taiwo Abiodun and Taiwo Adebayo edcation remains the best legacy mains the best legacy. “That is why

we are moving from colleges to the transport sector, we have always been socially responsible CSR but in church but shall partner with dynamic team like the Citinet toward assisting the needy.The duo advised parents to take education of their children serious as it remains the bedrock of all development. It is equally the best legacy a parent can give to the children.

The chief executives advised youths to learn the habit of struggling to achieve lofty heights in life. Besides,they should pray to God over their needs and repose their confidence in Him. They added: “Believe in your self and always aim high”. Their greatest aim is to create jobs for hundreds of Nigerians.

Ohanaeze Ndigbo gets new exco THE Ohanaeze Ndigbo Southwest has congratulated the national body for a fair and transparent election of new executive officers held on January 12.

It said a statement in Lagos that the election which had 450 delegates from 27 countries including Europe and Asia “was devoid of electoral malpractices.”

The southwest arm of the association, therefore, urged Nigerians to disregard the erroneous information being peddled around that the election was marred by irregularities. It commended the chairman of the electoral body, Chief Chris Asduka and his team for conducting the freest and fairest election in the history of the association. The group also praised its former president, Amb. Ralp Uwuche for the fair conduct of its affairs.

It congratulated the new President General, Chief Garry Nnachi Enwo-Igariwey, the secretary, Dr Joe Nworgu and other members of the executive, reminding them that the entire Igbo nation looks unto them for guidance and direction.

•Comrade Adebayo (left) and Comrade Biodun Taiwo at the event

THE NATION FRIDAY,FEBRUARY 8, 2013

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COMMENTARY Comments

EDITORIAL FROM OTHER LAND

Drone Strikes Under Scrutiny

Deadly drones •US’ expedition in Niger has implications for Nigeria’s security

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HERE are developments in the West African sub-region, presumably triggered by the ongoing war in Mali, which give cause for concern.

Part of the disturbing fallout of the Malian crisis is the report that the United States of America (US) has obtained permission from Niger Republic to establish a drone base in the country, ostensibly for unarmed surveillance operations. Niger is sandwiched between Nigeria and Mali, and this deal has serious implications for the two countries which have been facing disruptive challenges from Islamic militias.

The drone outpost is expected to facilitate the US military command’s unmanned surveillance missions concerning the activities of Boko Haram, the Islamic terrorist organisation in Nigeria,

‘It is significant that the US drone strategy remains a highly contentious aspect of its foreign policy. Generally, the drone programme is secretive, and it is unknown how many bases the US has worldwide for drone operations.

The world would obviously be better served by an international framework to deal with the terror trouble, rather than an individually determined riot squad, which is what the US move looks like’

and other extremist groups in West Africa that are affiliated to Al Queda and similar sectarian proponents. It is also calculated that the deployment of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV), which will be made possible with the establishment of the drone base, will reduce risks involved with the use of humans and as well raise the level of intelligence gathering around the desert belt connecting North and West Africa.

As if the development should not come as a surprise, it is said that the US African Command (USAFRICOM) has had the project “in the pipeline” for a while, and has just demonstrated greater seriousness on the issue in the light of the outbreak of war in Mali, involving Islamic rebels. However, it is astonishing that the authorities on security matters in the country are yet to respond publicly to the development, despite the far-reaching consequences it would likely have on Nigeria’s security.

With the benefit of hindsight, it would now seem that the USAFRICOM Commander, General Carter Ham, may have hinted at this project when he spoke at the Nigerian Defence College (NDC) last month. He focused on areas of common interests and challenges that connect Nigeria and the US, and argued that the AlQueda networks and affiliates, including Boko Haram, were morphing in ways that increased their menace-value.

He observed that this not only endangered individual African states and regional stability, but also posed a threat to US and international security interests.

Perhaps it is to be expected that the US, a global super power, should seek to police the world, but that is no justification for the drone scheme in Niger.

This manoeuvre further calls into question its self-assigned role as a universal policeman, even though it is believed that the US already had a secret base in Niger before the drone dream came up.

The deduction from this move is that the US is convinced that its presence in Niger is strategic for the global counterterrorism effort, being a gateway to other sub-regions on the continent.

But the question is: should the US unilaterally decide on the use of Nigerien territory to combat terrorism, even if it enjoys Niger’s cooperation?

It is significant that the US drone strategy remains a highly contentious aspect of its foreign policy. Generally, the drone programme is secretive, and it is unknown how many bases the US has worldwide for drone operations. The world would obviously be better served by an international framework to deal with the terror trouble, rather than an individually determined riot squad, which is what the US move looks like.

There are grave implications for Nigeria’s security, judging by its proximity to Niger and terrorist activities within its territory. The US drone scheme makes the country perhaps even more vulnerable, and constitutes a distraction, with the country never sure of when the unmanned technology might be deployed, and why. It deserves to be denounced.

Returned to owner • France has done well by giving stolen art works back to Nigeria

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N a very welcome display of international concern for the well-being of Nigeria’s cultural heritage, the French government has returned five Nok terracotta figures which had been illegally taken out of the country. The statuettes had been found in the luggage of a traveller by French customs officials and had been seized pending a determination of their provenance. After exhaustive research, it was discovered that they were authentic Nok art works of great antiquity and virtually beyond price.

Given the depressing presence of thousands of Nigerian artefacts scattered across museums and private collections in different parts of the world, it is heartwarming that France has seen the selfevident wisdom in ensuring that such priceless works of art are returned to the country where they were produced. Instead of remaining indifferent to the situation and permitting the large-scale theft of Nigeria’s artistic patrimony to continue unheeded, the French government sought to ensure that it would no longer be a conduit for such illegalities.

The French example should be adopted by other countries, in particular, Britain and the United States. Both countries have museums and collections full of ancient Nigerian art, much of which left the country in tragic or suspicious circumstances. Many items were looted by British forces in the various military campaigns that established colonial rule. The British Museum, the Museum of Mankind and the Wallace Collection are full of illegally-acquired art treasures. In more recent times, the large-scale theft of cultural artefacts has been the main

source of illegally-exported items.

While Benin bronzes are the bestknown example of stolen Nigerian artwork in foreign countries, there is also an extensive collection of royal household art stolen from palaces across Nigeria and illegally taken beyond its shores. These artefacts are openly displayed in museums that have consistently refused all requests by successive Nigerian administrations to return them. No country should be a willing accomplice in the theft of a nation’s cultural heritage.

It is also clear that Nigeria itself has to demonstrate its own seriousness in reducing the problem to the barest minimum.

The country’s museums, palaces and cultural institutions are so badly-secured that thieves simply walk in and help themselves to the treasures on display. The ease with which hundreds of items leave the country’s shores annually also leaves a great deal to be desired. There appears to be no system of identifying, documenting and keeping track of Nigerian artworks, and this makes it difficult to investigate cases of art theft. When culprits are apprehended, they are rarely brought to court.

Nigeria must ensure that it expands its capacity to properly preserve and store cultural artefacts. It must also be prepared to participate actively in investigating art theft, especially the suspected collusion of highly-placed officials in the illegal export of artwork. When stolen art is returned, it should trigger a comprehensive examination of how it was stolen and exported in the first place. Whoever is found to have been complicit in such illegalities

must face appropriate sanctions. In the specific case of the returned Nok statuettes, for example, the country should ensure that legal proceedings are initiated against the individual with whom they were found.

As the country puts its own house in order, it can then pursue restitution claims against foreign countries with renewed vigour. The return of stolen artefacts can be built into bilateral agreements and bi-national commissions; it should be reiterated ceaselessly at meetings with officials from the nations concerned; it could be made a precondition of all cultural exchange agreements. Nigeria should show the world just how serious it is about the ownership, preservation and retention of its priceless cultural heritage.

‘It is heart-warming that France has seen the self-evident wisdom in ensuring that such priceless works of art are returned to the country where they were produced.

Instead of remaining indifferent to the situation and permitting the large-scale theft of Nigeria’s artistic patrimony to continue unheeded, the French government sought to ensure that it would no longer be a conduit for such illegalities.

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N more than a decade at war since Sept. 11, 2001, the United States has relied increasingly on drones to kill people away from the battlefield. It has faced few constraints. Now an overdue push for greater accountability and transparency is gathering steam, propelled by growing unease that America’s drones hit targets in countries with whom it is not formally at war, that there are no publicly understood rules for picking targets, and that the strikes may kill innocent civilians and harm, not help, American interests.

Stanley McChrystal, the retired general, has warned that drone strikes are so resented abroad that their overuse could jeopardize America’s broader objectives. The secretary of state, John Kerry, spoke at his confirmation hearing of the need to make sure that “American foreign policy is not defined by drones and deployments alone.”

Drones have obvious advantages. The unmanned vehicles, whose controllers may be hundreds of miles away at a remote base, can hover silently over a target for hours, transmitting images and sound, and then strike quickly if needed. The administration says the use of drones has taken many enemy combatants off the battlefield and reduced civilian casualties.

But skeptics abound. John Brennan, the counterterrorism adviser most responsible for the program, faces a Senate confirmation hearing Thursday as President Obama’s nominee as C.I.A. director. He should be questioned closely about the strikes: their purpose, legal justification and relationship to broader American foreign policy aims.

For years, Mr. Obama has stretched executive power to claim that the 2001 Congressional authorization to use military force against Al Qaeda gives him the unilateral authority to order people, including American citizens, killed away from any battlefield without judicial oversight or public accountability. He took a step in the right direction on Wednesday when he directed the Justice Department to give Congressional committees its classified legal advice on targeting Americans.

Officials say they only target belligerents covered by the 2001 legislation, but the public has no way of knowing under what criteria these targets are chosen.

Nor does it know, absent publicly stated rules, how the 2001 law would be interpreted by future presidents. The confirmation hearing provides an opportunity for Mr. Brennan to explain his view on whether there is any check on presidential decision-making, especially when American citizens are targeted, and whether targeted killings are creating more militants than they are eliminating.

The White House has said it is still developing rules for when to kill terrorists. The United States has conducted more than 400 total strikes in at least three countries — Pakistan, Yemen and Somalia — killing more than 3,000 people in its war on Al Qaeda, according to a report by Micah Zenko, a fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations. The majority killed were part of a C.I.A. covert program begun in 2004 and aimed at militants in Pakistan. At a minimum, United States rules should specify that no one can be killed unless actively planning or participating in terror, or helping lead the Taliban in Pakistan or Al Qaeda. Killing should be authorized only when it can be demonstrated that capture is impossible. Standards for preventing the killing of innocents who might be nearby should be detailed and thorough.

An investigator for the United Nations Human Rights Council said last month that he would study the “exponential rise” in drone strikes in counterterrorism operations. More than 50 nations have or are trying to get the technology. The United States will set the standard for them all.

- New York Times

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THE NATION FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2013

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CARTOON & LETTERS

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IR: When Owelle Rochas Okorocha was elected governor of Imo State, people were rejoicing in the erroneous opinion that he was better than his predecessor, Ikedi Ohakim. Ever since he came into office, the people have not stopped asking themselves how they could have made the mistake.

His rascality and especially his disregard for due process has made a nonsense of all that is pure and decent in the act of governance.

Recall that after the election in 2011, even before he was sworn in, he wrote to banks freezing all government accounts. The Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) had to call him to order by reminding him that there was a government in place regardless of the outcome of that election and advised him to rein in his inordinate urge to assume power.

As soon as he came on board, he declared war on the system in place in Imo State, doing the unheard of, by commercialising the civil service, as well as dissolving the Local Government as a tier of government. He went ahead to violate the constitution of the federation by introducing an ill-conceived fourth tier of government that is lacking in definition and focus. In Imo State today, there is no local government worthy of the name; yet the allocations to that tier of government has not stopped coming and into someone’s private pocket.

Not too long ago, the Economic

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Okorocha and the limits of ambition and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) paid the state a visit and arrested two top government officials for questioning on a N44billion scam. He is trying to divert attention from that issue by making a feeble attempt to probe his predecessor.

For him, governance is akin to show business that thrives on razzmatazz. That can be deciphered from his abuse of television air time.

Okorocha’s face must appear on the screen everyday even if he has to fight for it as he did in Enugu at a State function where he fought with

a protocol officer over sitting position.

Towards the 2007 election, he toyed with the idea of running for the presidency on the platform of the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP). At that time, the ante for the Igbo presidency was at its upmost. But because of the way Okorocha went about it with his nauseating display of wealth, even the Igbo elite said if he was the kind character vying for the position, they would have nothing to do with it.

Now, he is back on the beat. He

wants to be a presidential candidate in 2015 and he is trying to buy into the ongoing merger talks by opposition parties, promising to bankroll it on the condition that they give him the ticket. But ambition ought to be made of a sterner stuff which the self-styled Owelle lacks. The good thing is that he is going to have to deal with smarter politicians who know who he is and where he is coming from. He abandoned ANPP when he failed to get what he wanted and returned to the Peoples Democratic Party(PDP) to accept the position of Special Adviser. He

Who will save Nigerians from PHCN’s crazy bills?

IR: That the services of PHCN is highly epileptic throughout the country is stating the obvious. The citizens have resigned themselves to fate as the fact remains that the government they put in place to make lives liveable seems helpless to tackle the monster. But the posers now are: Why is Government/PHCN killing the helpless and the hapless masses

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with crazy and ambiguous monthly PHCN bills? In the face of continuous blackout, when were these electricity units consumed?

Consider the situation in Ado Ekiti where I reside. Let us assume there are average of 720 hours in a month (i.e. 24 hours X 30days). Ado residents hardly get 100 hours for a month. These few hours of electricity mentioned are either dur-

ing midnight or few hours when people have gone to work. As soon as people are waking up around 5.30am or when people are returning from work, the light would go off. Again, there are several days light would not even blink!

The funniest thing is that by the middle of the month, PHCN would start distributing bills ranging from N2,500 to N3,200 per month

APC is symbol of hope

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IR: The formation of the All People’s Congress (APC) via a merger of the ACN, ANPP, CPC and APGA is one of the few positive developments that have come to the grief-stricken, badly managed country. Nigerians should ensure that this new party is allowed to end the tales of misery, anguish and pain, which the PDP has levied on Nigeria since the past 14 years.

That the merger is coming at a time official looting and plundering, insecurity and impunity, decay and unrestrained rot has become directive principles of state policy under the disastrous watch of the PDP shows that there is a flicker of hope for Nigerians. We want to assure

moved on soon after and joined the Progressive Peoples Grand Alliance (APGA) and rode on Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu’s booster rocket into office as Governor. To him, the envisaged mega party that would emerge if the merger talks succeeded would be a veritable platform to re-launch his presidential ambition. Of course, he will fail again and he will surely move on because he is the quintessential fair weather politician lacking in ideology and commitment.

Imo people are earnestly waiting to see how he will account for the billions that accrued to the state through the monthly federal allocation to the local government areas. Such a character is not who the Igbo nation should offer to the rest of Nigeria as their candidate for the exalted office of the President of the country.

• Ogbonna Eze Owerri

Nigerians that there is still hope in a country where youth unemployment has become a norm, where life has become so terribly cheap, where infrastructures continue to deteriorate, where cleansing of state resources has become the order of the day, where power outages, incessant increment in fuel prices, hardship and other forms of suffering have become tools of governance.

We want to assure Nigerian people that the new party best approximates their hopes and desires for a credible alternative to a PDP that exists first as a vote stealing machine and second, as a looting agency where extreme greed and inordinate selfishness prevail.

While we urge all Nigerians to embrace this new dawn of hope, we urge them to look for the dirty tactics of the PDP, which will employ any mean and dirty trick to sow mistrust and discord as a way of sustaining its corrupt leadership of the country. We warn citizens to beware of the agents of the PDP, who are beneficiaries of the present state of decay and we want all Nigerians to rather cast their eyes on the gargantuan opportunities the country has lost in the past 14 years of PDP’s destructive rule. We urge all to sheathe their self-interests and put those of Nigerians in front in building this new dawn.

We urge that personal political in-

terests take back seat while the urgent need to remove the decadent PDP kleptocratic rule should be the motivating principle in the new party. Giving famished Nigerians a new lease of life from the regime of rot, despoliation and impunity should be the immediate priority of the members of the new party and all Nigerians. We charge that no one rests on his oars until victory is achieved and Nigeria is given a responsible and accountable leadership that will lead this country’s march to greatness in 2015.

• Joe Igbokwe.

Publicity Secretary, ACN Lagos

per household! This is a country where N18,000 is the minimum wage. If people fail to pay on time, the connecting wire would be cut off, thereby using force to rip off hapless people. Must these ugly scenario continue? I continue to wonder, if the commodity is 80% available an average household would cough out almost half salary to pay PHCN bills in a month.

I hereby use this medium to appeal to the government/relevant authorities to come to the rescue of the masses from this oppression and consider making electricity regular and affordable costs to the masses; If the above task is too tall to be met, reduce drastically these killing bills. They should also ensure, in no distant future, that all electricity consumers, get pre-paid metering system at minimal or no cost.

Non Governmental Organizations (NGOs) Civil Society Organizations, Human Rights activists and our elected lawmakers should come to the aid of the masses. They should not watch helplessly and allow the octopus called PHCN to impoverish the masses more.

• Sanmi Olofinmuagun Basiri, Ado Ekiti.

THE NATION FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2013 16

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COMMENTS

Metaphor of the round leather (5)

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HE rambling youth who abandons his farm to seek greener pastures on his neighbour’s land is never as manly as the starving cow which kicks over its food bucket, leaps over the barnyard fence to run after its calf at milking time.

Even the maternal cow commands greater respect than the Nigerian youth. Even a plough-wearied bullock tilling barren land excites greater dignity than the youth who passionately maligns Nassarawa United, Rangers of Enugu and Gateway FC to worship A.C Milan, Manchester United among others.

Some would rave that I have made a sweeping statement but the tragedy of the Nigerian youth at home isn’t any different from that of his peer in diaspora. A pitiful lust remains their woe; it’s a hankering for undeserved luxury, base sentimentality and unearned greatness. It is what drives a 38-year old Masters Degree holder and soccer enthusiast in the United Kingdom to call Super Eagles’John Obi Mikel, a failure even though he, the 38-year old, washes the anuses of mental patients in a low budget geriatric home in the UK and Mikel earns about £80, 000 a week playing for Chelsea Football Club in the same country.

The 38-year old soccer buff was pissed with Mikel and his team mates’ performance at the on-going African Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2013. He thinks they constitute monumental disgrace to Nigeria.

And he painstakingly states so on his Facebook social networking page. Some would claim he has every right to criticize and condemn the Nigerian Super Eagles, so does

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every Nigerian who loves to see and breathe and talk fantastic football.

But this is hardly about the ignorant youth’s debatable logic or Mikel’s deep pocket, it’s about the rabid inclinations of the Nigerian youth and soccer enthusiast to criticize and condemn everything Nigerian within and outside the exciting world of soccer. It was fascinating to see the nation’s youth unite in condemnation and virulent abuse of Nigeria’s Super Eagles over their perceived lackluster performance at the ongoing AFCON 2013. It doesn’t matter that the hastily constituted squad was meant to use the on-going tournament fine-tune in depth and strength. No sooner than the tournament began than the Nigerian soccer enthusiast began to fantasize of the team’s incontestable right to excellence and invincibility even though it was ill-prepared to function and gel as a team.

It took Clemens Westerhof four years to build the excellent squad that served Nigeria for well over a decade but the Nigerian youth and soccer enthusiast wants Stephen Keshi to parade a perfect team in three months. When the team drew against Zambia and Burkina Faso, not a few of their peers cursed and demeaned them as the worst things to ever happen to Nigeria. When they beat Ethiopia 2 – 0, their peers at home ridiculed them endlessly, claiming they shamefully managed to win by penalties. However, nothing compares to the ill-will accorded the team as it prepared to face the Ivorien team.

The”Super Chickens” will fall to the might and soccer prowess of

OME months ago, a cousin of mine, who lives and works in Minnesota, United States of America, shared a terrifying testimony of his wife’s experience on his Facebook timeline. It was titled, “Why FUTA (by extension, Nigeria) needs a change: The Story of my Wife”.

He wrote: Last week I promised to tell more of the story of how my wife was forced out of her graduate studies at the Federal University of Technology Akure (FUTA).

Please if you attended, FUTA, take time to read this piece. I must also say from the onset that it is nothing against the university but a desire to see a change…

Yes, it is true that my wife – (name supplied) graduated with a first class honours from FUTA. She was honoured as the best graduating student in her department and the best graduating female student of the Faculty of Sciences. So she immediately returned to FUTA for Master of Science (M.Sc.) degree with the hope that she would eventually obtain the Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree. As God would have it, the Redeemer’s University (RUN) was just opening their doors for students at the time, so she picked up an appointment as one of the pioneer lecturers. She would travel every week from the Redemption Camp to FUTA for classes and return to give her lectures.

Just as she did during her undergraduate, she worked so hard that she scored A’s in almost all the classes she took and completed class works in three semesters. After completing the required classes for M.Sc. degree at FUTA, it was time for her to begin her research. That was when the trouble started.

A particular lecturer –the graduate coordi-

Didier Drogba, Yaya Toure, Africa’s current best footballer and their Ivorien team mates, claimed the Nigerian press and other soccer buffs.

Eventually, the Super Eagles put a lie to prophesy of doom by their peers at home and abroad; they simply outclassed and dominated Drogba, Toure and team mates from the first blow of the whistle to the end of the match. The Super Eagles beat Ivory Coast 2 – 1.

It hardly matters what final fate await the Super Eagles in the ongoing tournament, what truly matters is their spirited disavowal of the abject disloyalty and rabid sentimentality of Nigeria’s soccer loving youth.

Currently, Nigeria is afflicted with youth irredeemably dim and misty in persona and worth; like spent shadows, they incarnate an insensible perspiration towards the sun. Their contempt for Nigeria extends beyond their disdain for Nigerian soccer. Like the beautifully dull and half-witted, this generation of youth encapsulates an inordinate contempt for everything Nigerian.

They would dump the Nigerian dream for scraps and crusts of the American dream, British dream, South African dream, Malaysian dream, Ghanaian dream and even the Malian dream to mention a few.

One cannot pontificate enough – even by unrelenting self-righteousness –to lay a foundation of true understanding and compassion for

their plight. I speak of the unrepentant critic forever mounting the soapbox in his living room, courtyard or public bar to curse our leadership and curse the times even as he does nothing to improve the times.

It’s even more tragic to see a journalist in his youth incarnate such pitiful citizenship despite expectations that he ought to know better.

Such character that will play muscle to the most hideous politician for the paltriest fee often turns around to blame politicians for everything that is wrong with Nigeria. This young Nigerian journalist that I speak of espouses more bleakness and disdain for the Nigerian dream than his contemporaries from every other professional divide.

By his contemporaries, I speak of children of the rich acquiring the best of Ivy League education abroad funds stolen by their parents. I speak of Nigerian youth cum self-styled intellectuals washing the anuses of the senile in geriatric homes and hospices abroad, even as they return home to belittle the impoverished teacher and farmer burning out under the worst living conditions, with dignity.

I speak of postgraduate alumni from Nigeria driving cabs, cleaning public toilets, robbing, scamming and trafficking their sisters, daughters and mothers to foreign brothels for a fee. Then I speak of the very successful living abroad

‘It’s even more tragic to see a journalist in his youth incarnate such pitiful citizenship despite expectations that he ought to know better. Such character that will play muscle to the most hideous politician for the paltriest fee often turns around to blame politicians for everything that is wrong with Nigeria’

and yet propagating as much venom as bloody solutions to every problem in our fatherland.

Lest I forget the maddening horde of Nigerian youth whose clamour for change is meticulously smothered no sooner than they gain access to vulgar privileges they wholeheartedly condemn as the excesses of the ruling class. With this shameful lot, the Nigerian journalist in his youth brazenly casts his lot every time he incites cheerlessness and contempt for everything Nigerian.

What pleasure is there to be derived from ridiculing one’s heritage just for the pleasure of doing so?

The one who derives his thrill from doing so, himself becomes an everlasting jest, oftentimes to his great loss. The Nigerian youth who does so besmirches the essence of true citizenship and grace. But aren’t we all identifiable with such character?

To this, many will vehemently object but it still doesn’t belie the fact that left to our devices, we shamelessly abide with degeneracy.

Little wonder, the hue and cry over the removal of fuel subsidy has abated to a burp. Little wonder the profligacy and sleaze of the Nigerian ruling class became acceptable to hordes of cowardly revolutionaries that threatened to “Occupy Nigeria.”

The infinite cowardice in our hearts shall continue to betray the mutinous duplicity of our battle cries. The Nigerian youth is undoubtedly a researcher’s delight; every hour he substantiates the fraudulence of grief and revolutionary marches this side of the divide.

Why are we in desperate haste to protest the corruption of the ruling class only to cower at decision time?

Why do we demean the electoral process despite its worth as the most powerful revolutionary tool yet?

• To be continued...

Open letter to education minister By ‘Tunmise Olupona nator of the department during that session – assigned herself to be my wife’s adviser (or supervisor as they are called in Nigeria).

Six months after she took that decision, it became clear she should not even be employed at FUTA and only God knows why FUTA was not only keeping her but the department head dreaded her like Almighty.

This woman did not have a contact phone –and this was 2006; she did not have a car and she comes to the school whenever she wanted. The problem with someone like that working with any student was that such student(s) cannot make any plan outside being in school for 24 hours. And considering the fact that my wife was coming from the redemption camp every week, it became extremely difficult for her to move forward with this woman as her adviser.

We later found out that a student already had a misfortune of working with this woman. This student had completed her classes one year before my wife did and she hasn’t even had a project topic because she could barely set her eyes on her supposed adviser.

So after six months of doing nothing since completing her classes and with her job on the line (because she must complete the M.Sc. at a certain time if she wanted to keep her employment with RUN), my wife went to the department head and requested to be reassigned to another lecturer in the depart-

‘After more than nine months of doing nothing, after series of tearful nights and at least a car accident, we were forced to give up everything she has worked for at FUTA. She had to give it up because it became clear that the woman was only interested in punishing (her word) my wife’

ment. There were lecturers willing to take my wife as their student, in fact the oldest and the only professor in the department was so enraged about the state of things with my wife’s study that he volunteered to be her adviser. But the Head of Department (HOD) turned down her request. His reason was that he was not prepared to get into a fight with the woman. All efforts to get the HOD to see what potentially could happen to the careers of my wife and that of the other student already in this woman trap ended in futility.

After more than nine months of doing nothing, after series of tearful nights and at least a car accident, we were forced to give up everything she has worked for at FUTA. She had to give it up because it became clear that the woman was only interested in punishing (her word) my wife.

My wife applied and got admission into the graduate programme of the University of Ibadan (UI). The school was ready to waive some classes for her but almighty FUTA refused to release her official transcript – crazy, right? Their reason was that she did not graduate but the fact is that schools all the world issue transcripts even for one year of study.

My wife had to start all over at UI. But it was not even six months after she got into UI that the University of Tennessee, Knoxville USA offered her an admission with full tuition waiver and stipend. And now she has graduated with a Ph.D. degree.

My wife’s experience was actually not my first with FUTA lecturers basically ruining the careers of students they are supposed to build. There was this professor in the Computer Science Department while I was at FUTA that will not show up for classes until two weeks to the end of semester.

Like I said, I am speaking out because I want the management of FUTA to know the impact of the behaviours of some of their lecturers on the careers of students that were entrusted into their hands. My wife spent exactly 11 semesters at the University of Ten-

nessee but she would have spent less had the transcripts of the classes she took at FUTA been released but some people used their powers and added almost two years to someone’s time at school and they never felt bad about it.

I don’t know how many students in Nigeria are still going through what my wife and others that I met during our unnecessary trying times at FUTA went through.

But what I do know is that some students are still paying dearly with their careers for the actions and the inactions of some employees of the universities in Nigeria. One of such people is a friend who graduated from the Federal University of Technology Minna. After trying his luck in the labour market and with no luck, he attempted to apply for admission into a foreign school for graduate studies. However, when the time came for him to get his transcript from FUT Minna, his records were nowhere to be found. They told him because they have relocated, some records have missed and his own might have been part of the missing records.

If FUTA and by extension, Nigeria are going to continue to treat human beings the way my wife was treated without repercussions, then I will not hesitate to say that it would be hard to keep hardworking people from going away from Nigeria whenever such opportunities present themselves”.

Many have written so extensively about the state of education in Nigeria. I believe that the National Assembly committees on education and the Honourable Ministers for Education should at least take a closer look at the unjust action actions by university lecturers. It’s high time our democracy take its rule on its dissidents.

Of course, the FUTA story is in every institution.

• Olupona is Assistant Secretary General Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) Kogi State Chapter.

THE NATION FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2013

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COMMENTS “The louder he talked of his honour, the faster we counted our spoons.” ¯ Ralph Waldo Emerson in: The Conduct of Life

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HE public has been thrown into theatrical frenzy over the bombshell in an article written by Reuben Abati, Senior Special Adviser (SSA) on media to President Goodluck Jonathan. The article published in virtually all major newspapers last weekend was titled: ‘The hypocrisy of yesterday’s men.’ That well crafted piece was definitely the consequence of former Minister of Education and one-time World Bank Vice President (Africa), Dr. Oby Ezekwesili’s allegation at the convocation lecture she delivered at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) that the administration of the late Umaru Musa Yar’Adua and Dr. Jonathan squandered $67 billion left behind by former President Olusegun Obasanjo.

Oby had alleged that $45billion in foreign reserves account and another $22billion in Excess Crude Account being direct savings from increased earnings during the Obasanjo regime in 2007 were squandered by Yar’Adua and Jonathan’s administrations.

Since then, Jonathan’s hirelings including Labaran Maku, his Minister of Information, and Doyin Okupe, media aide on public affairs have not given satisfactory explanations on how the money was spent. They all blabbed endlessly.

Maku left issues raised by calling on Ezekwesili to account for over N40billion voted for education between 2006 and 2007 when she was in charge as minister. Okupe merely accused her of ‘grandstanding’.

Abati, however, threw a punch through this piece that drew the ire of more men of yesterday from the Obasanjo camp out of their cocoon of comfort. Nasir el-Rufai and Femi Fani-Kayode, both ministers under the former president joined the scrimmage. Even their boss/mentor, Obasanjo has inexorably been virulent in his criticism of President Jonathan’s handling of especially insecurity and other challenging issues.

Abati wants Obasanjo’s ‘navel-gazing, narcissistic…and loosely-bound group of yesterday’s men and women’ to stop criticising the policies of his boss through their arrogant and pretentious posturing as know-it- all persons simply because ‘…they were privileged to have been in the corridors of power once upon a time in their lives.’ He added: ‘We are in reality dealing with a bunch of hypocrites.’

Beyond the name callings between today and men of yesterday, it is apt to find out what the issues are: First is the issue of whether or not Obasanjo’s administration left N67billion in foreign reserve; second is whether the response of

“Trust God where you cannot trace HIM, congrats to the Super Eagles. Keep committing your ways unto GOD and HE and he will see you through in Prayer warriors at work

N

IGERIANS are prayer warriors no doubt. I want to wager that no other country prays more fervently than the raucous millions of the Niger area. What I do not wish to find out however, is how much of our prayers break through the atmosphere and up into heaven. Would God in his omniscience, open up the heavens for us in order to reveal the flow of our prayers and benedictions, most of us would be surprise how we have been firing blank. We pray long, we pray noisy, we pray with vehemence and exertion, we keep vigil and go into lengthy dryness and observances yet to no avail it seems. We as a nation, as a people, as families we are still overtaken and tormented by the evil one.

The prince of darkness seems to have found his domain and refuge here in Nigeria. The chief principality of this realm seems to have built his operational headquarters on our shores from whence he fans out evil, misery and pain to the rest of the world. Before you think one is exaggerating, is there any other land on the face of the earth blessed with so much riches and yet abounds with so much human misery? There is no other place in the world today where there is such criminal round-tripping of crude oil; that is the rich endowment of a country’s crude oil is shipped out to surrogate refineries abroad and the bye products returned to Nigeria as expensive and economically unviable commodities.

Now this treasonable economic crime has gone on for nearly three decades and still continues till tomorrow. No other major oil producing country in the world imports petroleum products; on the other hand, they export to the rest of the world so as to maximize the benefits of their God-given resource for the good of their citizenry. But the reverse is the case here. This is a country where a mere civil servant could access and purloin state funds in billions. Consider the recent example of a certain civil servant named John Yesufu who stole all of N27 billion naira; he is only a deputy director, imagine what directors, directorsgeneral, auditors-general, accountants-general, permanent secretaries, ministers, gover-

Of current‘messiahs’ and ‘spent forces’

Jonathan the government on the matter really addressed the allegation that was raised by Oby: Third is to determine whether there is what in law is calleduberimei fidei behind the actions/inactions of today and yesterday’s men of hypocrisy.

Without mincing words, it is very clear that Maku was found wanting in his official response on behalf of government to the allegation raised

by Oby. Rather than brilliantly address the issue raised, he adopted the obsoletely ruthless method: ‘You Tarka me, I Dabor you’coined by the media to describe the quarrel that transpired between Joseph Tarka and Godwin Dabor during the General Yakubu Gowon era as Head of State of over four decades. He brazenly accused Oby of not accounting for the N40billion she collected as Education Minister. On the second leg of the question; the government should tell the

public the time at which it realised that its accuser and one of the precursors of ‘transparency and due process’ in government mismanaged the money released for her to salvage the still epileptic educational sector? The delay by the government in accusing Oby in this regard defeats equity.

The most important leg of the posers is to determine whether or not both parties in this exchange of brickbats acted with utmost good faith, that is, in the interest of Nigeria and Nigerians.

The truth is that both are playing politics with the welfare and wellbeing of Nigerians. One group criticises from the position of hurt, the other defends from the position of pressure.

For instance, the hypocrisy of men and women of yesterday, including Obasanjo, towards Jonathan would have been impossible if the president is working hard and well enough to lift the nation out of her current doldrums. The truth as it is today is that most things seem not to be working for the country because the president in the saddle does not understand the real meaning of governance. As an Ijaw man, he seems to perceive governance from the privileges and respects that are normally accorded the position forgetting that a leader can only be effective when he has good vision and purposeful mission in power.

Jonathan does not have this because those (Obasanjo and company) that put him there wanted him to be playing their game. And he was not doing that and worse still doing badly for Nigerians. They didn’t put him there so that they can go back to their different professional callings after office, contrary to Abati’s postulations that ‘People are called upon to serve; they

EXPRESSO STEVE OSUJI

SMS O8181624757, email:steve_osuji@yahoo.com

SUPER EAGLES: Pray Nigeria, pray nors and presidents who have better leeway to the treasury, would have. We are in a country where numerous public servants are so rich they can buy up a country or two, they are so shamelessly rich because they hijack and cart away entire budgets of their ministries, departments and agencies. And they are so proud about their ‘achievements’, the have no qualms whatsoever and indeed, they are the most voluble prayer warriors at the least opportunity.

Praying football prayer But pray we must for where would we be without the vigil of the faithful. In prayer we must persist, especially where there is no trace of HIM like in Nigeria, to paraphrase Pastor Adeboye above. Let us pray for the Super Eagles, our national football team not because we need the Africa nations’ cup so badly or that the lifting of it would change our unrepentant evil ways and make our leaders and public officers less greedy and covetous. We pray for victory if only for that brief moment of ecstasy and uproarious revelry; for that ephemeral moment of national ‘unity’ and ‘rejoicing’. We must pray, hoping that in that moment of ‘white’ madness, some wellness would be triggered in our leaders and the scales would fall from their eyes so that they can see their monumental failings, so that they may see Nigeria’s missed opportunities; so that they may see that Egypt, Britain, USA and such other

places they are quick to shuttle off to are built by leaders who are better than them only because they are patriots and they are truly godly.

We will pray hoping that our God who works in wondrous ways might just adapt our moment of national ‘joy’ into our hour of national salvation and redemption.

We all should rise as one to pray this football prayer hoping that this flitting gold cup would not ‘pass over us’ this time. It is not because the hollow metal is worth its weight in gold, no, we are praying, hoping that our leaders may be led into a sudden burst of inspiration to see the untold potentials in organizing our football and sports properly. We pray that they would realize that if they get just our sports right, millions of our youths who are jobless and broken today would not only be engaged but gainfully so; and not only in Nigeria but all over the world. Nigeria has the capacity to furnish the world with one tenth of its outstanding sportsmen and women. One of the greatest natural resources God has endowed us with is awesome physical strength combined with speed and acute power of mental co-ordination. It is a rare gift only found in few other countries in Africa and Latin American countries. Carefully harnessed, the result is a human specimen of immense grace and spectacular physical feats. Applied to football, basketball, boxing, wrestling, tracks and field events, etc, it is a talent that is in hot demand all

do so with humility and great commitment, and when it is all over, they move on to other things.

The quantity surveyor returns to his or her quantity surveying or some other decent work; the lawyer to his or her wig and gown; the university teacher, to the classroom, glad to have been found worthy of national service. When and where necessary, as private citizens, they are entitled to use the benefit of this experience to contribute to national development; they speak up on matters of public importance not as a full-time job.’ The contrary is what we all currently witness in Nigeria.

For instance, what job does he expect Femi FaniKayode to go into after leaving government? He was known to have written the most virulent articles against Obasanjo while he was in power but the moment he was appointed, he changed his tune. Today, those in his shoes still see Obasanjo as a godfather they must protect so that he can still make things happen for them in the corridors of power. Oby was also visible in the civil society group activities articulating views on how to make her country forward. She got to power under Obasanjo and her most visible achievement was her attempt to callously privatise Federal Unity schools, our collective patrimony. Her likes laid the solid foundation for the destruction of public institutions in the country today. What were el’Rufai’s achievements in the Bureau of Privatisation? Nothing but capitalist confusion and unbridled superciliousness! They are the people that Abati describes in his piece as ‘a group of power-point technocrats who have mastered the rhetoric of public grandstanding.’

Well, Abati might talk gleefully about his concocted achievements of this administration but the truth today is that majority of Nigerians perceive this administration as the weakest in their history. Abati himself ought to have seen clearly that his boss’ administration is a hard sell to Nigerians in view of his lacklustre performance.

What would Abati have written today on this administration of Jonathan were he still to be with the Guardian? While admitting that the Obasanjo group are spent forces, the messianic status accorded the Jonathan group of men of today in Abati’s piece cannot be justified. Therein lies his own hypocrisy and those of the other hirelings of Mr President.

For today’s men and men of yesterday, the louder they talked of their honour, the faster we counted our spoons. They all mask their selfinterest as public’s and are always ready to manipulate collective aspirations for personal good.

The two groups, to adopt Abati’s words, try ‘to play God, forgetting that the case for God is not in the hands of man.’

over the world. It is a resource that could yield as much revenue to Nigeria as crude oil.

But here we are, unable to manage our stadia; we allowed a forest to grow in our number one stadium in Abuja right under the nose of the presidency. Our national stadium in Lagos has been in a state of decay for more than ten years.

The national league is in perpetual turmoil having been infiltrated by ragamuffins, the sports associations are comatose with most so called administrators scurrying about looking for morsels. Nobody is thinking or attempting to seek out and groom talents. School sports where virgin talents were plucked is long dead and forgotten. For instance I have a 13-year old who has been sprinting with seniors and running invitational relay since she was 11. In serious places, she would have been placed under special watch but nobody cares.

160 million voices praying Another reason we must pray is that our opponents, Burkina Faso, prays too. They probably pray better than us. Did you see them after their grueling duel with Ghana last Wednesday how they went on their knees – players and officials, forming a large circle and pointing heavenwards, showered thanksgiving to heaven? Something tells me that our match on Sunday would be first a divine showdown. I see a game of celestial favours; who does our Maker want to favour most? Who needs it most, who is seeking and knocking and asking more?

As we meet in the mosques, churches and even in our homes, let us all say a prayer for the success of the Super Eagles on Sunday February 10, 2013 – if 160 million people, in spite of their blemishes pray, our God is bound to hear.

Amen.

LAST MUG: National Assembly and 2013 budget: as it has become our practice, the 2013 Appropriation Bill is yet to be passed into law.

The National Assembly and the Presidency continues to squabble while the country bleeds.

Dawdling over the budget has become a national pastime in the last few years. NASS, one must say, is mainly to blame for this; the body still does not seem to assimilate the magnitude and import of this document. It seems to view it more from the prism of contracts and ‘constituency’ projects. It cannot exact proper oversight on the executive if it has its hand deep in the cookie jar. We need a high minded NASS.

THE NATION FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2013

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THE NATION FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2013

PEOPLE THE NATION

AN EIGHT-PAGE SECTION ON SOCIETY

Akure, the Ondo State capital, was in festive mood last weekend for the funeral of the leader of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) Chief Wunmi Adegbonmire (a.k.a Omo Ekun). DAMISI OJO reports.

•The widow, Solape flanked by her children Tobi (left) and Niyi

Farewell to a ‘political generalissimo’ H

IS was a life of integrity, transparency and honesty. People converged on St. Thomas Anglican Church, Isinkan, Akure Ondo State, last Friday, to pay their last respects to the late Chief Wunmi Adegbonmire, former Secretary to the State Government (SSG) under the late Governor Adebayo Adefarati.

The late Adegbonmire, the Asiwaju of Akureland, died on December 28, last year a few hours after celebrating the 75th birthday of his wife, Chief Solape Adegbonmire, on December 27.

He died after receiving his last Holy Communion.

Shortly after ‘Omo Ekun’ (as he is popularly known), died, a burial committee was raised to ensure a befitting funeral for the committed Awoist.

The funeral programme was packaged, with a special day for tributes, the second day for wake and a service of songs to herald the final internment last Friday.

A commendation service was held at St. Thomas Anglican Church, Isinkan, where he was for years a strong communicant and a leading member of the Young Men Christian Association (YMCA).

The late Adegbonmire, who began his career in Ile-Ife, Osun State and rose to become the Assistant Registrar Grade 1 in charge of students welfare at the then University of Ife, now Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), was also a loyal member of the Men Christian Fellowship of All Souls Chapel, OAU, Ile-Ife Adegbonmire had earlier studied English Language in the same university through a Federal Government scholarship from 1963 to 1966.

Before the arrival of his remains, in a glittering silver casket with golden strips, carried by pall bearers decked in blue Agbada and Sokoto

Aso-Oke, the 4,000 capacity auditorium of St. Thomas Anglican Church had been filled to its capacity.

Guests outside the church, who sat under canopies specially erected on the premises, outnumbered those inside.

The casket was wheeled into the church entrance where serving and retired Archbishops, Bishops and other clerics received the corpse, followed by a reading of the Bible amid background organ music.

From the Anglican Hymn Book 327, the song My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus blood and righteousness, was chorused as the casket was wheeled along the church’s aisle and placed before the altar.

Blue Ankara of varying styles dominated the arena. Children of the late politician were dressed in light brown Aso-Oke with shoes to match.

There were many exotic cars which competed with each other as eminent personalities from within the state and across the country lobbied to find strategic places to park.

Four choirs —All Souls Chapel, Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife; St. Thomas Anglican Church, Isinkan ,Akure; that of Young Men Christian Association (YMCA) of the same church and Men’s Christian Fellowship (MCF) of All Souls Chapel (OAU) Ile-Ife rendered melodious songs at the event.

Among eminent personalities at the event were former Lagos State Governor and National Leader Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) Asiwaju Bola Tinubu and ACN National Chairman Chief Bisi Akande, who described the late Adegbonmire as a role model and man of integrity.

Tinubu said: “He was one of the longest serving members of the old guard politicians reputed for being principled and progressive in orientation.

“Adegbonmire epitomised discipline, dedication, conviction and patriotism unequalled in his brand of politics,” the ACN national leader said.

In his sermon, the Archbishop of the Ecclesiastical Province of Lagos, of the Church of Nigeria, Revd. Adebayo Akinde, described the late Adegbonmire as a “political generalissimo’’ who exhibited an uncommon high sense of integrity.

Revd. Akinde, who is the Bishop of Lagos Mainland Diocese said:“Adegbonmire during the days of military dictatorship stood by the Yoruba nation through his powerful column in the days of the Nigerian Tribune now rested, and Daily Sketch with the title Omo Ekun.

“The ACN leader was a principled man. He was loyal to the ideology of the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, to the very end. He believed and practised Awoism political doctrine and lived by it, when he was also in government, he never enriched himself.

Revd. Akinde, who expressed resentment over the present situation in Nigeria, called for political re-engineering to move the country forward Wondering why Nigerians were still suffering in spite of the abundant resources God endowed the country with, the cleric urged good governance.

He also urged political office holders, particularly those who are Christians, to be serviceable to the electorate that voted them into their respective positions, rather than self-enriching themselves.

The widow, Solape, described her late husband as a dependable partner, honest and highly responsible.

One of his children, Tobi, rendered several soul-inspiring songs in memory of his father, whom he described as a great man who will surely be missed.

Tobi, by the directive of the retiring Bishop of Akure Diocese, Rt. Rev. Michael Ipinmoye, was automatically admitted to the YMCA to fill the vacuum created by his father’s exit, and he received a blessing.

Others in attendance were Governors Abiola Ajimobi (Oyo); Olusegun Mimiko (Ondo) and Kayode Fayemi of Ekiti State.

Ogun State Governor Ibikunle Amosun was represented by his deputy, Ade Adesegun. Also present were General Adeyinka Adebayo; former governor of Ogun State Aremo Olusegun Osoba; former governor of Ekiti Otunba Niyi Adebayo; former Nigerian Bar Association president Mr Rotimi Akeredolu (SAN); Senator Ajayi Boroffice and renowned essayist Prof. Adebayo Willams.

Others included Secretary to Osun State Government, Alhaji Moshood Adeoti, Hon. Ifedayo Abegunde, Senators Gbenga Kaka and Gbenga Asafa, Chiefs Mojisola Akinfenwa, Ayo Adebanjo, Gen. Alani Akinrinade, Gen. Olufemi Olutoye, Chief Olu Falae, Senator Titus Olupitan, Mrs. Adetutu Adefarati , Otunba Gboyega Adefarati,Mr Ayo Afolabi and Prince Olu Adegboro among many others.

The ministers of God included Archibishops Adebayo Akinde and Gideon Olajide (Rtd), Bishops Bolanle Gbonigi (Rtd), Rt. Rev, Michael Ipinmoye and Bishop-Elect of Akure Diocese, Very Revd. Simeon Bokinni; Provosts; Venerable; Canons and priests of the church.

Many traditional rulers from within and outside the state were represented at the funeral by their staffs of office.

The late Adegbonmire’s remains were laid to rest at about 2.45pm.

A grand reception was held at the Gani Fawehinmi Memorial Arcade, Igbatoro Road, Akure.

•More pictures on page 26

THE NATION FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2013

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SOCIETY •Continued from page 25

TRADITIONAL WEDDING FOR THE DAUGHTER OF CHAIRMAN OF ZINOX COMPUTERS, LEO STAN EKEH IN OWERRI, IMO STATE

•From right: Governor Fayemi; Asiwaju Tinubu; Chief Osoba and Chief Akande

•Governor Ajimobi

•Akeredolu •The couple, Andrea Chigozie and her beau Tolulope Ijogun

•Governor Mimiko

•Otunba Adebayo

•Bride’s parents Leo Stan-Ekeh and his wife Chioma

•Adesegun (left) and Adeoti

•Prof Williams (left) and Chief Dele Akinyele

•Groom’s parents Mr and Mrs Olusiji Ijogun

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THE NATION FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2013

SOCIETY A thanksgiving service has been held for the new Archbishop of the Ecclesiastical Province of Lagos, Most Revd. Adebayo Dada Akinde. NNEKA NWANERI reports.

Behold, the Lagos Archbishop

H

E was full of joy and appeared fulfilled. He has grown in the vineyard of the Lord, and served God the best he could.

Last September, Revd. Akinde was elected the Archbishop of Lagos in Asaba.

On January 27, the church held a thanksgiving in his honour. It was the day he was presented as the Archbishop of the Province of Lagos.

His brother bishops came to share the joy of the occasion with him. It was a service of praise and thanksgiving. Tunes blared from the piano as guests took their seats in the church pews.

The Cathedral Church of St Jude, EbuteMetta was agog with worshippers. It was a great day and the faithful turned out in their numbers.

Beautiful people from all walks of life were present. Stewards decked in their black suits.

A red scarf was used on the neck of the ladies, complemented with ash-coloured hats.

The men wore red ties on white shirts.

Other guests and parishioners wore traditional and western garbs. The expansive church auditorium was filled. So also was the gallery. Those who couldn’t get seats inside watch the proceedings through the transparent glass of the church windows.

There was a long procession of the clergy as the service began in earnest with the hymn Christ is made the sure foundation. They were decked in their full regalia and the Bishops were the last to mount the altar holding their staffs of office.

The scripture, 1 Corinthians 9:15-23, was read by the Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Mrs. Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire. Soon afterwards, God announced his presence with showers of rain.

As the celebrator stepped onto the pulpit to give the homily, all he could mutter was God bless you. He gave account of the journey of the church with three provinces. In 2002, it had 10 ecclesiastical provinces, with 13 dioceses, comprising that of Ogun and Lagos, constituting the Lagos Province; it is so till date. Revd. Akinde thanked his predecessor and pioneer Archbishop of Lagos, Revd.

Adebola Ademowo, who he served under as Archbishop of Ijebu-Ijesha in 1965.

“Since my birth, God’s hand has been on me for good. I am here to serve and not be served and I will serve more diligently than ever before. All my expeditions had a reason.

It shows me that God’s hand has been upon me for good and he has given me his most precious gift; He made me His child.”

Reciting Psalm 108, the cleric said it capture the totality of his life, having made a recommitment to God in November 1960.

Thanking his mentor for 21 years, the late Jonathan Adeniyi, who made many prophetic statements on his life in God’s vineyard which are still manifesting.

Revd. Akinde’s message for the day: “God

•From left: Bishop of Ife, Rev Oluranti Odubogun; Mrs Orelope-Adefulire and Revd Akinde

does not know anyone who he created that he does not love.” The elated Bishop told The Nation he has no agenda than God’s agenda.

An Electrical and Computer Engineer, the new Archbishop was born in 1946 in Kaduna and hails from Egba in Abeokuta. The sixth of nine children, he attended Baptist Day School, Kaduna and is an alumni of the University of Ibadan and Obafemi Awolowo University, (OAU) Ile-Ife. In attendance were many academics led by the Vice-Chancellor of OAU, Prof Adebowale Omole; Prof Isaac Adiwole; Prof Ayo Banjo; Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos, Prof Rahamon Bello and Dr Christopher Kolade.

Others were the paramount ruler of Ogun State, Oba Michael Adedotun Gbadebo; Chief Ernest Shonekan; Rev Raphael Okpoko; Chancellor of Ijebu Diocese Otunba Segun Demura, Chief Dan Etiebet; Bishop of Egba Rev Emmanuel Adekunle and Justice A Oyebanji of the Lagos State Judiciary.

The post of the archbishop was formed for administrative convenience, efficiency and coordination. The Anglican Church is divided into provinces. Nationwide, there are 26 provinces.

But that of Lagos consists of Lagos and Ogun states.

The 13 bishops meet occasionally to harmonise positions and deliberate on issues affecting the church, where they make presentations to the larger body of the Church of Nigeria in Abuja.

The post of the Archbishop spans five years.

Thus, the Diocese of Lagos Mainland will be the headquarters of the province of Lagos for the next five years.

The leader of the church in Nigeria is the Primate. The head of the Diocese is the bishop. The Archbishop is the coordinator, who sees to issues that transcend the immediate confines of the Diocese.

•Oba Gbadebo (left) and Chief Shonekan

•Justice Oyebanji (right) and Otunba Demura

•Prof Omole (left) and Mr Clement Olowokande

•Chief Etiebet and his wife

PHOTOS: NNEKA NWANERI

THE NATION FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2013

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The Apostolic Church Grammar School Old Students Association (TACGSOSA) has held a reunion luncheon to celebrate the school’s 49th anniversary. NNEKA NWANERI writes.

•Mr Babalola and wife his wife, Bridget

•Deaconess Odetunde receiving an award from Mr Nwachukwu on behalf of Mr Odunewu

•From left: Dr Olanrewaju George; his wife, Yetunde and Mr Leke Ogunlewe

•Hon Akinyemi Obe and Rev Odunlami

B

Y next year, the Apostolic Church Grammar School, Orishigun, Ketu, Lagos, will be 50. To that end, the activities have already begun to herald the golden jubilee.

Thus, the school’s old students association gathered for a luncheon which also served as a meeting to discuss ways to move their alma mater forward.

The venue was the Sheraton Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos.

The event, which has come to stay, is a new platform where they thank God for seeing them through the year, as they didn’t lose any member; they had double cause for celebration —annual luncheon and anniversary.

The old students, from diverse walks of life, are successful in their various fields. They were happy and spoke with pride for all the school had taught them, making them the men and women they are today. Most of them have retired from service. They champion the name of the school in Nigeria and the Diaspora.

The school, which began in January 1964 with 44 boys and 22 girls, has, for over five decades, moulded many to attain their destiny.

Though the gathering was small, less than 50 members, those present represented the substance of the old students. There were representatives of most sets of the school.

Thus, it was more or less a small family gathering to associate, reminisce and chart the way forward.

Chairing the occasion was the former fi-

PHOTOS: NNEKA NWANERI

Reliving the good old days nancial controller of Bank of Industry, Mr Araoye Babalola, who said the plans of the old students have been fulfilled.

Earlier in the year, the association completed and handed over an e-learning centre to the school.

Most of the attendees were clad in native attires. Only the President of the association and lawyer, Chuks Nwachukwu, wore a suit topped with a black hat to complement his dressing. He was the Library Prefect during his school days between 1976 and 1981. Although each of them looked stunningly much younger than the other, the day, they said, is one of those that they had looked forward to for a long time. It was a time when they could meet again.

There was a flash back on their good old days. Old jokes cracked back then in school were recalled; those pranks that made them stronger as students were played out.

Though it was fun, the ‘students’ looked back and wondered how they could do such things.

They thought of the yesteryears and how the school has impacted them positively.

They could not help but sing and hum some of the old songs in APOLLO, which they used to sing back then, that made them proud.

First to share his experiences was a past president of the association, Anthony Oluwole Abati. He recalled having walked into the school with a box on his head and

left with a small bag in 1973. On mentioning that he was in Blue House, those who knew him hollered his nickname Sacramento.

Also, his mate, Olusesan Adeshile, who was in the school between 1969 and 1973, was the House Captain for Blue House.

Deaconess Folu Odetunde, who was then known as Grace Ifebogun, said she repeated twice while in school. So, instead of spending four years, she spent six.

For Pastor Tope Odulami, Sundays were the dullest days in the school, despite being a Christian. He used to be a very stubborn boy before he entered secondary school. He said before he left the school, he was a completely changed person.

Euphoria filled Mrs Omobolanle Erogbogbo when she took the microphone and stood before the smiling guests. Though she hasn’t gone back to the school since she left it 41 years ago, she said: “It’s been a great pleasure because the school has given me such a good foundation in life. Whenever I look back at it, I am so proud of the school and who I have become. I have a good foundation in Christian life. I cherish all the memories.

I hated my Fine Arts teacher because he always made us to draw. Now, I design water gardens artistically.”

Mrs Erogbogbo encouraged present day students to take every subject they do seriously, as it will be useful to them later in life.

Other women shared their experiences of

how they were taught not to be liabilities to men.

Yemisi Adegboye, now Yemi Opemu, who works with Oando left the school in 1980.

She noted that it was the deeply-rooted Christian principles of the school that changed her religious belief from Islam to Christianity.

The high point of the event was the entry of the Chairman of Coker-Aguda Local Council Development Area, Mrs Bolanle Akinyemi Obe, of APOLLO’s 1970 set. As soon as she stepped into the hall, she ignited the atmosphere and charged the women into stepping on to the dance floor.

Every year, during its reunion, it awards a member as a distinguished old student.

This award is given to those who make the school proud.

This time, an Honorary Degree of Membership was given to Mr Ade Odunewu, the Executive Director, Finance and Administration, Vintage Press Ltd, publishers of The Nation newspapers. As soon as his citation was read, a plaque was presented to him

by Mr Nwachukwu, who explained that though Mr Odunewu isn’t an old student of the school, he has always identified with them. And thus, the award was given to him because of his desire to help the institution grow.

Mr Odunewu worked briefly in the school as its librarian.

FUNERAL FOR LATE SPORT COMMENTATOR, REV ELIJAH AYODELE OSITELU AT HIS HOME TOWN IN OGERE-REMO, OGUN STATE

•Wife of the late Ayo Ositelu, Aribike; his son Eniola; Dr Bukky Ositelu, and the wife of Lagos State Governor, Mrs Abimbola Fashola

•Lagos State Chairman of Action Congress of Nigeria(ACN) Otunba Henry Ajomale, and his wife Adetoun PHOTOS: MUYIWA HASSAN

29 FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2013

Vol 4. No. 1788

What is killing indigenous Pay TV? Many Pay TV companies have come and gone, probably because of poor planning, negligence and lack of experience. RAJI ROTIMI SOLOMON reports.

T

HE commercialisation of television stations has created competition in terms of content delivery and signal clarity.

In the past, only government owned television stations were available. Signals were bad; stations worked between 4 p.m and midnight.

The privatisation of the broadcast media especially television, advancement in technology and a crave for more entertaining and educative content gave birth to pay televisions.

Over the years, many pay TV companies have come and gone; some died because of poor strategic planning, negligence and lack of market.

In 1994, DsTV, a South Africa based pay TV company launched its operation in Nigeria. It controls 85 per cent of the country’s pay television market. At inception, the market was a virgin land for it to grow its business. It was an alternative for the rather boring local stations who had nothing to offer. In no time, it became a matter of status symbol to own a satellite dish.

Not to have a satellite dish in your home meant that you are not in the calibre of the high and mighty. For a decade, DsTV monopolised the market. Then came the first indigenous pay TV company. Frontage satellite television (FsTV) in 2004. It had a poor marketing strategy and not too highly rated content for viewers. It did not survive.

Trend TV was launched about the same time. It didn’t survive beyond its test-run days. The mortality of these companies affirms the words of Caroline Creasy, former head of Corporate Affairs Multichoice Africa: “Nigeria is a difficult market to ingress and it takes lot of sound strategies to prevail. We believe there is still room for growth.”

In 2007, DsTV had a competitor, who gave it a run for its money.

HiTV was launched in 2007, was the brainchild of a lawyer, Toyin Subair. He worked with DsTV as legal adviser before proceeding to establish his own pay TV company. HiTV surpassed other defunct indigenous companies. By 2009, HiTV had hit 200,000 subscribers base.

HiTV’s acquisition of the Cham-

pions League and Premiership viewing right was the goose that laid the golden egg for it. The competition gave room for objective evaluation of both companies and their offerings. HiTV dominated the sport channels and the competition became stiffer as people began to buy DsTV for the sake of African Magic, Movie Magic, Channel O; they bought HTV for sports.

Niyi Akinola, a banker said: “I enjoy football a lot and that’s the only way I relax. So, I had to buy HiTV for myself, since the only time I am around to watch TV at weekends, I had to buy DsTV for my wife and kids who are not interested in football. The two decoders became necessary evils to have at home.”

HiTV relied on the Premiership and Champions League viewing right, which made its sport station premium. DsTV took the time off to build its other stations, which was all it had then. When the next bid was called for the Premiership and Championship viewing right, HiTV knocked DsTV out with an incredible figure of $130 million for just Nigerian right. DsTV bid $100 million.

Of course, the right was given to HiTV, but, it couldn’t pay the money. When HiTV couldn’t pay, DsTV swung into action and got the right for $100 million. That was the deal that spelt doom for a promising indigenous pay TV which was a threat to DsTV. The irony is that while DsTV built its channels with local content with African Magic and all, HiTV focused mainly on its sport station, not giving a chance to local content to grow. This would have added a cushion aid to the fall they had.

Daarsat, a pay TV owned by media mogul, Dr. Raymond Dokpesi, started in 2008. It came

introducing high definition (HD) programming into Nigeria, the first of its kind. It enjoined viewers to catch the fever. Iiterally, Daarsat went down with fever and never recovered.

StarTimes is now a major competitor in the market. The Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) and its Chinese partner are far-

ing well in the market. Their target are the low-income earners.

Many people find it convenient to get a pay TV subscription for as low as N1,000. The rush was high until lately when Multichoice decided to hit the low earners market with its GoTV product which is competing with StarTimes.

‘I enjoy football a lot and that’s the only way I relax. So, I had to buy HiTV for myself. Since the only time I am around to watch TV at weekends, I had to buy DsTV for my wife and kids who are not interested in football. The two decoders became necessary evils to have at home’

Despite its growing market, the question is, why are indigenous pay TV stations dying? What is killing them? Why should foreign brands dominate the market and make so much from it? A media practitioner, Abraham Oyedele, traced the problems to poor managerial and content management skill.

People may complain about DsTV’s incompetence in terms of signal disruption during stormy weathers, inefficient customer service centres, connection and reconnection troubles, but there is no doubt that it is strong. This is because it feels the pulse of its customers. It knows content management and how to sell its brand well. If only we can have such too, then we are sure to have a pay TV that would match DsTV well”

THE NATION FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2013

30

N

IGERIA’S number one premium low sugar malt brand, Amstel Malta, is joining forces with leading entertainment brand, AfricaMagic, and MultiChoice, to stage the first edition of the AfricaMagic Viewer’s Choice Awards (AMVCA).

Amstel Malta, from the stables of foremost brewer, Nigerian Breweries Plc, is the main sponsor of the event.

Speaking at the Nominee Event ceremony, where the various categories and nominees were unveiled, Mr Tokunbo Adodo, Marketing Manager – Non Alcoholic, Nigerian Breweries Plc, described the partnership as timely.

He said: “Amstel Malta is a brand that inspires individuals to be the best they possibly can at everything. What better opportunity to anchor that value than a gesture that is aimed at giving back to people who have indeed worked very hard in our very own continent.”

According to Adodo, the AMVCA is a platform for rewarding talent which aligns with one of Amstel Malta’s core value of rewarding loyal consumers. “We constantly seek new ways to say to reward our loyal consumers. The AMVCA will not only reward talents, but also encourage the upcoming ones to strive to excel so they can be recognized and rewarded”, he added.

Mrs. Adedoyin Owotomo, Brand Manager – Amstel Malta, also remarked on the brand’s sponsorship of the event. She said: “At the core of the Amstel Malta brand is the conviction that everyone has what it takes to be the best.

The brand, therefore, believes in providing platforms that not only give opportunities to young talented individuals but also inspiration. AMVCA is a platform that recognises and celebrates the best in the movie and TV industries; a platform of inspiration to encourage young talents in the industry to ensure they make smart choices that will show their originality and that they are unique and discerning individuals that deserve to be recognized and rewarded.

The Managing Director, M-Net Africa, Biola Alabi, said the partnership with Amstel Malta was commendable. “At M-

Amstel Malta backs maiden Africa Magic Viewers’ awards Net, we look forward to walking this path with Nigerian Breweries and we believe that our strong relationship will be a long standing and mutually beneficial one,” she stated.

She also had words of encouragement for artistes who were not nominated.

“This is also a medium to reach out to every individual that is part of this industry either directly or otherwise. Do not be disappointed if you do not hear your name in any of the categories, it doesn’t mean your work isn’t recognised or appreciated. Contrary to that, your input is noticed and deeply appreciated,” she said.

The nominees for the AMVCAs were revealed at a glamorous nomination cocktail party held at the Porsche Center, Victoria Island. At the event were popular movie and TV drama stars like: Jide Kosoko, Saheed Balogun, Chidi Mokeme, Funlola Aofiyebi, Uti Nwachukwu and Genevieve Nnaji.

The event also featured the unveiling of the AMVCA statuette, which eventual winners will walk away with. It was revealed by the trio of Biola Alabi, Managing Director, M-Net Africa, Tokunbo Adodo, Marketing Manager, non-alcoholic, Nigerian Breweries Plcand John Ugbe, Managing Director, Multi Choice Nigeria.

Some of the categories are: Best Actor/ Actress in a Drama, Best Actor/ Actress in a Comedy, Best Costume Designer, Best Short Film, Best Sound Editor, among other categories.

Some of the notable nominated Nigerian thespians include: Genevieve Nnaji, Funke Akindele, Osita Iheme and Kunle Bamtefa, among others.

While voting started for the viewing audience on Monday, January 28, it closes at midnight CAT on Sunday, March 3, 2013.

Viewers can vote via SMS, WAP and also via the Africa Magic website (www.africamagic.tv).

Commission unveils campaign for Vision 20:2020

N

IGERIA’S Vision 20:2020 got another fillip with the take-off of a sensitisation campaign aimed at educating Nigerians on its goals.

The radio campaign, which is running across major radio stations, pan Nigeria is one in the many communication executions that have been outlined to enlighten Nigerians about the seriousness of the Federal Government through the Ministry of National Planning to ensure Nigeria becomes one of the top 20 economies of the world by 2020.

Frontline, Multidisciplinary Marketing Communications firm, Verdant Zeal, that got the nod of the NPC to act as its communications agency after a keenly contested pitch in 2010 created the jingles produced in Pidgin and English, with extensions to key local languages to address the ethno-cultural and religious demographics of the country.

The jingle, which vividly captures the mood and essence of the Vision economic plan of the Federal Government, puts in perspective, the need for Nigerians to believe and share in the vision, unite and work, towards the attainment of the goals set out in the

broad plan of making Nigeria an economic force.

The Vision’s economic transformation blueprint is a long term plan for stimulating Nigeria’s economic growth and launching the country onto a path of sustained and rapid socio-economic development. The blueprint articulates Nigeria’s economic growth and development strategies and will be implemented using a series of medium term national development plans.

It is a rallying call for all Nigerians, regardless of ethnicity, economic status, or religion to unite and stand behind a common cause of placing the country firmly on a path of sustainable growth, and taking it to its rightful place in the comity of nations.

The Vision encapsulates the key principles and thrusts of the National Economic Empowerment and Development Strategy (NEEDS) and the Transformation Agenda of the democratic administration situating both within a short and long term strategic planning perspective.

The radio campaign runs on both government and privately-owned radio stations across the country.

B

RANDS need social media. Social media - web and mobile-based technologies such as Facebook, Twitter, Tumbler, LinkedIn and BBM and others that readily turn any message into interactive dialogue among individuals in a community, organisation or a country - does not need brands. On the contrary, brands need social media.

According to recent reports, this year, social media is one of the most powerful news and updates sources. Because of this and similar reports, brands desperately need social media to be successful, to be social media savvy, to connect with grassroots, to sell their goods, and to be successful.

Brand managers have these reports and they do understand that, in the 21st century where technology has blurred marketing boundaries, no brand succeeds on its own. In addition to the traditional media, brands need the efficacious power of social media.

Reason: brands jostle for the attention of several millions of individuals who populate the social media scene. Brands need the attention and wallets of these people, as such; brand custodians would play all games, through different marketing gimmicks, to grab their targets.

Some of these games include asking you to download free cool logo and use it as a screen saver, new singles of a popular musician; or if that fails to deliver the number, you are enticed to record and upload your own music on a particular site to win a particular gift, or get opportunity to mingle, giggle and wriggle. “Catch the fun while it lasts!” The brands scream in ecstasy. That is the catch.

Guess what, the target, mostly youths, believe this sweet-sounding words hook, line and sinker. Who wins? It is not the target.

The brands win. That is why the brands keep going back to the social media space to recruit ardent fans, raving fans to fan the embers of their brands. Do not blame them.

Much of the space on social media is free.

However, that is the main reason brands need the social media. No, it is not only that, some brands have limitless pocket.

I think the bottomless pocket of some of these brands (and the social juice they can get) attracts them to social media circle. This (bottomless pocket) gives brands opportunity to acquire social media muscle and bask in the social juice it brings.

This used to be the exclusive preserves of the traditional media [newspaper, magazines, television and radio], but not any more, not any more, not any more. If a campaign breaks and it does not hit your Facebook page, it does not hit your Twitter handle, it does not hit your BBM anonymously, such campaign has not gone viral. If it has not gone viral, it has not succeeded. If it has not succeeded, it has failed.

Ask a social media-savvy brand manager.

That is the power of social media platform.

In addition to this is the ability to connect with the target at an emotional level and hit their passion points and create a hero out of a zero; generate emotion and keep it in motion, create meaningful content and be in contact, engineer powerful engagement and keep the arrangement, sustain interest and build large followers.

If you look at it with 20/20 eyesight, it is clear that social media allows the brands to set up infrastructure for their target and make the connection that makes the biggest difference (like the ones described above. I am sure you must have participated in one or two social

Social media leverage media games).

The birth of BlackBerry, different web-based applications platform and social sites have provided canvasses brands to tell their stories, to promote their ideas and be all to all people.

That is why brands would always be grateful to social media dais.

As social software that mediates human and brands communication, social media is the only platform that brands can flaunt their social juice, as it gives brands relevance, responsibility and recall, all year round, twenty-fourseven. Therefore, if a platform stays and sleeps with you that long, you are wont to believe everything it says hook, line and social media.

As Internet-based applications that allow the creation and exchange of user-generated content, social media also packs extreme believability. This is where Cynthia Osokogu comes in. Cynthia made that same mistake of believing the content of her BBM. Cynthia was a victim of social media mistrust. Save the gory details.

You remember her. Great. My job is not to regurgitate the ordeal she went through but to save a soul, by preventing a reoccurrence.

That Cynthia paid the ultimate price does not mean the social media platform is evil.

It is just prove that majority of social media fans are gullible. They would believe every twit. They would believe every ping. They would believe every contact. That makes them vulnerable to physical, viral and fraudulent attacks.

Kindly note, social media platform is a social gathering of friends and acquaintances.

Invariably, this indicates that you could meet genuine friends, strike legitimate business deal or find your bride while chatting in some professional chat rooms. On the other hand, social media space can be likened to clubbing.

In a restaurant, you could make new friends that would last a lifetime, meet a dupe, or be swindled by a woman who happens to be smarter than you are! Does that make clubbing evil? Answer to that question is not available on this page.

What you would get here is this: brands look for critical mass to strike the numbers, the critical mass are available on social media space, and brand custodians would do all to lick those numbers. If you have a Twitter handle, Facebook page, BBM or LinkedIn profile, look out. If the message it too good to be true, and you cannot authenticate the source, it is too good. Delete it. Ignore it. Watch who you follow. Follow whom you watch. As my mother would say, keep to well-lit streets after dark.

Be careful with your BBM. Know your pings.

This is not a revelation. It is a reminder. In her wildest dream, Cynthia would never think those pings are death messengers. She was innocent. She was blameless. However, she has offered a great lesson on how not to deal with BBM contacts: Not every contact should be contacted. Not every contact has a contact address. Be wary of contact who insists on physical contact, unless you are sure.

If you are not sure, delete the contact.

Several social media contacts hide under aliases. Aliases are guises. Guises are masks.

Masks hide dirt. Dirt tells bad story. Bad story is bad. Ask questions. Probe aliases. Be social media-wise. Have fun. Life is short. Do not shorten it further. Remember Cynthia.

For social media addicts, happy pinging. For Cynthia, adieu.

‘Guess what, the target, mostly youths, believe this sweetsounding words hook, line and sinker. Who wins? It is not the target. The brands win. That is why the brands keep going back to the social media space to recruit ardent fans, raving fans to fan the embers of their brands. Do not blame them.

Much of the space on social media is free. However, that is the main reason brands need the social media. No, it is not only that, some brands have limitless pocket’

*Editor - Wale Alabi *Consulting Editors - Rarzack Olaegbe, Sola Fanawopo * Correspondent-Jimi David * Business Development - Kenny Hussain * Legal Adviser - Olasupo Osewa & Co Brandweek is powered by Brandz Republic Consulting and published every Friday in THE NATION newspaper.

All correspondence to the editor - 0808.247.7806, 0805.618.0040, e-mail: korede2000@gmail.com © All rights reserved.

31

SHOPPING THE NATION

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2013

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

email:- shopping@thenationonlineng.net

Between malls and online shopping Internet shopping is fast growing, creating the belief that it may drive shopping malls into extinction. But to market analysts, there is room for both to co-exist, TONIA’DIYAN reports.

• Shopping mall.

• Story on Page 32

Fun at City Mall promo

Tips on buying cookware

Page 33

Page 34

THE NATION FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2013

32

SHOPPING

• Shopping Mall.

Between malls and online shopping O

NLINE shopping is becoming popular worldwide. Some shoppers are comfortable with going shopping and window shopping during which they can see items before buying.

Malls allow shoppers to come in contact with various choice items. Shoppers could make the best choice and go home with the exact items they desired. But with online shopping, one could take the advantage of convenience to shop right from his home.

These days, hotel reservation and flight ticket booking are done online cheaply.

An online survey shows that over 70 per cent of online shoppers spend more money online during festive seasons, such as Christmas, Eid-El-Fitri.

Following the introduction of online shopping, there hasn’t been any dull moment for shoppers, who take advantage of the large number of shopping malls across the country to get what they need. The biting economic downturn has little or no effect on shoppers who prefer to buy in the malls.

The long row of thriving retail outlets has added a new dimension to shopping malls’ patronage. Shoppers have not relented in their efforts of doing what they like to do.

The prospect of a shopping mall is explained in the items shoppers could lay their hands on, knowing that they are buying products they can account for. Shoppers prefer to buy items, such as shoes, clothing and the likes from the malls where they can assess their fitness.

In online shopping there is no such opportunity because there is no contact except when the goods are delivered.

A marketing personnel, at a mall, Mrs Adetutu Bankole, said malls are realising the value of the Internet and are also adjusting

their range of products and services to take advantage of it.

She said: “Some offer to order items for customers online if they do not have it in stock at the time needed.”

Online shopping is a new trend in this part of the world, where people believe in the adage; ‘Seeing is believing’. A Nigerian shopper is one who doesn’t like to be cheated. He likes to see what he wants to purchase before releasing his hard earned money.

The e-commerce trend in Nigeria also applies to the well-to-do, who can afford and operate an Internet system in the convenience of their homes.

Chief Executive Officer, of Shop Direct Group Mark Newton-Jones said: “The past decade has seen a transformation in the way people want to shop, and while many still prefer to take the trip down to the local mall, increasingly people are finding all they could ever want, at a better price, online. ...different choices depending on what their priorities are, and how they do it.”

But it would appear more women do their shopping in stores while men do their shopping online.

Mrs Stella Nwankwo, a boutique owner at the Ikeja City Mall, expressed her contentment for shopping in malls. “This computerised issues have misled many. I don’t believe in sitting at home and waiting to receive what I have paid for with online fraudsters everywhere. I am a very careful person. I work hard for my money and I won’t allow some people to steal from me in the name of online shopping and payment. I am not interested,” she said.

“For Christ sake, what is wrong with my legs and hands? Why can’t I drive down to a mall and do all the shopping I need? If I surf

the Internet and find something I love, I simply check it out in a store I am sure of getting it here or when I travel abroad for visit,” she said.

Those who shop online here, do this because they find it convenient to pay online

using their credit cards. This makes experts say buying on the Internet is interesting.

Technology combined with the pressure of work and modern family living means that the time one has to spend wandering around the local shops, is now no longer so.

• Online shopping

33

THE NATION FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2013

SHOPPING

Fun at City Mall promo Ikeja city mall gave out cash prizes, branded items and gift certificates to some shoppers last weekend when a scavenger hunt was organised to support shoppers. TONIA ‘DIYAN was there.

• Participants at the scavenger hunt.

A

LAGOS-based marketer, Mr Anyanwu Collins, emerged winner in the first Ikeja City Mall Scavenger Hunt and went home with N100, 000 cash and other gift items. Anyanwu beat nine others including a Youth Corps member based in Osogbo, Osun State, and a grandfather from Ibadan, Oyo State in the keenly-contested game.

The game was simple: each contestant was given a bag and asked to visit all the stores in the Mall in search of letters of the alphabet. However, only 10 stores of the 94 in the modern shopping facility had the letters they were looking for and they had to use clues provided to them to know which stores to enter.

The first person to return to the start point and spell out the words, ‘Ikeja City Mall’ was declared the winner. Mr Anyanwu did in less than 10 minutes, huffing and puffing his way to the grand prize.

The contestants were picked from the over 5,000 entries from shoppers in three weeks.

To enter the competition, customers only had to write their names and phone numbers behind their receipts and drop them off in designated boxes placed around the Mall.

Last Friday, 10 lucky shoppers were drawn and invited, on an occasion attended by reporters.

• Ikeja City Mall

The man of the day was elated to win, given that he almost gave up even before the game started. He told The Nation Shopping that his car broke down in the morning and that would have discouraged him, until his friend convinced him that he might be the lucky winner. “I almost called the management of the mall to say I wasn’t going to make it, but my friend encouraged me to come. Now, I have N100, 000 to spend just for shopping at the Ikeja City Mall. I’m so grateful to them,” said Collins.

Congratulatory messages have been pouring in for the winner on the Mall’s official social media accounts.

Other contestants went home with N15, 000 each, along with branded items and gift certificates from all the participating stores.

Before leaving the Mall, Collins shopped at the LG Shop for a big screen TV and a car stereo.

Media personnel who were present at the event were not left out as one of them went home with N20, 000 in a parallel contest.

Mr Henry Ojelu of PM News was the winner.

At the closing of the event, the management of the Ikeja City Mall also announced that it has extended the ongoing Shopaholic promo to cover the Valentine season where 10 couples will be selected to enjoy a candlelit dinner in the spirit of love, anticipate it will be just as exciting as the Scavenger Hunt.

TRIBUTES TO THE LATE JANICE NKOLI Tribute to A Beloved Sister It was with sadness that I received the news of the death of Janice Nkoli. I must have spoken to her sometime in October, November last year or thereabout. It was a brief chat on phone and I had no idea that would be our last conversation on earth.

This is a very big loss to the Chukwumezie and Ikokwu families and to all her friends and well wishers.

Nkoli was an intelligent, driven, resourceful and endearing young lady. She loved God so much as evidenced by her ministry. I remember receiving a couple of invitations to her spiritually inspired programmes. Nkoli was a woman of substance that had a lot to offer the world and our generation in particular.

We had attended the same high school at Queen of the Rosary College Onitsha, although she was my senior. We ended up in the same profession as journalists. While I was working as a political reporter with THISDAY Newspapers, she took to the Fashion/ Entertainment bit, writing a Column for the THE LATE JANICE NKOLI Nation Newspapers which was formerly Comet Newspapers.

I was proud to see and read her column, which I thought was a tremendous achievement. She made her family proud. In doing all of these, she remained true to herself and to her roots. Indeed, she was a true daughter of the Chukwumezies and the Ikokwus.

I mourn Janice Nkoli, a young soul on whose shoulders a lot of destinies rested. But I take solace in the belief that she has gone to be with the Lord. May her gentle soul rest in peace. Amen.

By Constance Ikokwu International Journalist/Media Strategist The little moment Writing a tribute on JANICE NKOLI is the most challenging task I have to do. I do know, I'll feel the real impact of this new reality (that Janice had joined Dad),when the rites are over, when colleagues,friends,foes and well wishers depart, when am all alone in my little moment(quiet time).I was one year older, so we spent our early years together, played together, fought each other at times, played games on our parents some of the time, shared the same strong family values most of the time, shared the virtues of humility,uprightness,justice,selflessness all of the time. Above all, she was an epitome of discipline, caring heart and just like our late Dad, too transparent to a fault. I will never forget so soon her days at QRC osha,I was in SS1 at DMGS,she was in JSS3.I had graced their school interhouse sports. I paid the mandatory 50kobo required to have a glimpse at the Beauty queen,lo and behold, on getting in, the queen was Janice. I paid to have a glance at my sister.Ofcourse,I demanded for a refund. She never depended on any one; she worked so hard and kept her dignity intact at all times. We shared a common battle on all fronts.

Despite being so patient to get it right, we both made fundamental errors in marriage. She was so joyful to see me get it right, just the week before her demise; she congratulated me with a hand shake and a hug. She said (we've won, am happy for you) and we looked forward to her own marital perfection. We had proposed to spend time together in my house, on her return from a training trip to the UK,just to shape the new future.Now,I've to enter this "new future" without my benefactor. Janice was my "uncle, aunt, sister and daughter" too. She was always their to bail me out, in time of want, need or despair. She believed so much in my abilities to fulfil destiny, and made me the chairman of the board of trusties of GLOWIN with late ambassador segun olusola as the patron. She consulted me on virtually every project, including her work as the pioneer head of the nation shopping desk, the first of its kind in Nigerian print media. We looked forward to a political future together, to reshape the attitude of the total man, starting with Anambra state. Her talk show program for 2013 "beyond the limits" was a project we have consistently discussed, to coincide with the launching of her book "BEYOND THE LIMIT". The events of 28th/29th January reshaped my thoughts and belief system. Having arrived when she had gone cold and certified death, My siblings and I exercised 'DANGEROUS FAITH", broke traffic rules, moved at terrific speed in the dead hours, with poor visibility on the night, just to get to cannan land. Now I know you just don't have to try to raise the dead. You just have to let it go. We will miss your writing skills, your eloquence and power of speech, your heart of charity and meekness and lots more. When the drums go down, when the guests depart, when we visit your abode on your birthday, we will be left alone to the mysteries of that little moment. But just be sure, we will walk in eternal triumph. From now, we shall continually be above our challenges. May you dwell in eternal peace in the bosom of the Lord. AMEN! Kevin Chukwukodinaka Chukwuemezie Dear beloved Janice, l can't remember addressing you by your name. I have always called you my blonde or pretty sister because of the way you always looked- pretty physically and spiritually. We discussed a lot and shared a lot of intimate thoughts. You can imagine how heartbroken you left me when you soared higher to be with the Lord, without a word. What will happen to all your spiritual children and your pet project? Never mind the good Lord will take care of them. Am rest assured that you are with the angels triumphant singing Hallelujah to the most High. One thing is needful- our work with the Lord here and not how long we stay around.

It's a rather long and painful good bye until we meet to part no more!

Acts 4: 12 Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved Okwy Iroegbu The Nation, Assistant Editor Janice, the shopping girl. I can imagine your SMILE now as you shop with the angels.

Just the way you SMILED that sunny afternoon when you moved the motion for adjournment of Lagos NAWOJ January Congress. But then, I never knew I would announce your home call at the February Congress!

You prepared for NAWOJ on-the-job training in London,UK, but for reasons best known to your creator, you re-routed your trip, exchanged the UK ticket for Heaven's.

I trust you are guiding the heavenly beings in their shopping, so they would go for only the best.

Though we are already missing that service plus your warm SMILE, we take solace in the fact that you are now free from worries- deadlines, traffic snarl, low wage, poor condition of service, man's inhumanity to man et al.

Your mum said you 'SMILE' even in death, SMILE on, Shopping Girl, worthy NAWOJIAN till we meet to part no more.

Mrs Dupe Olaoye-Osinkolu, (Mama Labour) Chairman, Nigeria Association of Women Journalists, Lagos State Chapter.

Dear Janice, how can I cope with your departure? I remember your last words to me 'Tonia handle things, I will be away for some time. I want to take care of myself.' You didn't tell me you will be gone forever.

Each time i sit to plan the shopping pages tears run down my cheeks as i remember how we use to do it together and it was so easy. I joined you on shopping desk and for the period I worked with you, I found out you were tolerant and very understanding. The few times we disagreed, you would always make me see reasons.

You were a very nice and gentle person. I enjoyed working with you. I will miss you dearly 'Nkoli'.

Sleep well in the lord until we meet again to part no more.

Adieu - Tonia 'Diyan Janice, I was yet to know of your demise, when different callers contacted me, trying to know the cause! And they ended up commiserating with me.

A call to ‘Mama Labour’ confirmed it. My arrival in the News Room reminded me of barely a year now, how Ngozi Agbo did... just like you... no hint.

Jan, as I used to call you, since the time when we, as Mr Femi Kusa’s ‘recruits’, choose to stay on in journalism, your death and NG’s are harrowing... do rest in the bossom of your God. Adieu – Oyeyemi Gbenga-Mustapha.

34

THE NATION FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2013

SHOPPING

Tips on buying cookware What type of cooking vessel will you buy? Here are things to note while choosing cookware. Writes Idowu Taibat

T

HESE days, the shape of cooking vessels has gone beyond just what to use on the stove or range cook top. Many now use their cookwares to express their taste and class. Others would simply go for cookwares that are convenient and hassle free.

Be it wooden, stainless steel or metal, choosing a cookware is a matter of personal preference. Cookware comprises cooking vessels, such as saucepans and frying pans, intended for use on a stove or range cook top.

If you are the homely type, you would have experimented with different kinds of cookware. Princess Tammy Adekoya, a comedian and Nollywood actress, expressed her hobby at buying cooking vessels. She said: “I love to buy things like frying pans, saucepans, pots, cutlery; you know…things you can use in the kitchen.”

Speaking on her experiences with cookware, a house wife and cookware collector, Mrs Mary Njoku said: “It’s all about your experience. I have always loved to cook right from childhood. So, I have had ample experiences using cooking vessels. At the end of the day, it is a matter of choice. I like pots that in the best of circumstances work well, but are also somewhat forgiving if you do happen to overheat and burn something.

While I try to use mostly wooden utensils, a pot that cannot handle metal utensils is a real hassle for me. Bearing that in mind, some other things about cookware are close to universal. For example, thick is almost always better than thin to avoid hotspots”.

She continued: “I had often wondered why one would prefer one kind of cookware to another, until I began collecting them. Now, I can say much about cookware”.

According to her, “stainless steel is trouble. The very inexpensive solid stainless steel is very susceptible to overheating in spots.

Yes, you can pamper them and cook decently in them, but who needs the aggravation? I like cookware that lets you crank the heat up high without worrying. Stainless is dirt cheap and works just fine for boiling and steaming.

“To combat the uneven heating problem, most stainless steel pans are laminations of aluminum or copper on the underside to spread the heat around, and stainless steel inside the pan to provide a cooking surface that is impervious to whatever you might put inside. In my experience, this stainless steel surface is still too sticky to fry on, and if you ever burn it you get a permanent trouble spot. But, sometimes, a stainless steel cooking surface comes in handy when you cannot use aluminum; so, I keep some around. Choose something with a reasonably thick aluminum layer on the bottom”,

• Cooking wares

she advised.

“Teflon and other nonsticks are also less than desirable. Food fried in a teflon pan just does not crisp up right. Eggs cooked in teflon (I like mine very soft) have a weird surface texture. Yeah, Teflon is easier for sure and it does not make food taste bad, but if a recipe says “caramelise onions then deglaze”, you are out of luck here because you will go straight to burn before you glaze. I do not want to discourage anybody from cooking. If teflon keeps you away from the fast food joints, use it. But commercial chefs do not and part of my enjoyment comes from learning the classic cooking techniques they use”.

On aluminum products she said: “It works great. Handles metal utensils, and the occasional scouring. Get the thickest you can because it will distribute the heat most evenly which means high temp cooking with less burning.

The only drawback to aluminum is that it can get pitted over time if you cook acidic things in it. Somethings cannot be cooked in it.

“Even better is anodised aluminum, Calphalon (not the non-stick) being the most widely available brand. It provides a super-hard surface that does not have the drawbacks of regular aluminum. The heat distribution and surface means you can leave a spaghetti sauce on higher, longer, with a lot less stirring. When used for frying, I find them much less sticky than stainless. Mine have held up well even when scoured occasionally with those green, scrungey things. The drawback is that they

really are overpriced (but still cheaper than those very good looking all clad stainless steel). Also, I was talking to a clerk at a store and she said people return them be-

cause they get screwed up when used to store things in them in the fridge. I never have; so I do not have an opinion about it”, she said.

Valentine offers

S

TORES are known for dazzling shoppers during festival periods with the coming of Valentine’s Day next Thursday. Shoprite, the leading African supermarket, is giving customers discounts on all products in stock. Electrical appliances are sold for less than N10, 000, fruits and vegetable are less than N500, beverages are less than N400, Enemaya stores, owned by Mrs Juliet Morgan which stocks jewelries is giving out 50 per cent discount on all jewelries bought.

Some other shops will be giving dis-

By Taibat Idowu

counts on quantity of items bought. i.e, the more items you buy, the more discounts you gets.

Polocity store only sells male clothings and shoes, a shopper can buy five shirts and get one free. If a shopper passes the information to three other shoppers, and they visit the store, such shopper would be presented with a gift.

Real diva hair is giving 30per cent on weavons and hair attachments. Hair care lectures are also going on for shoppers who visit the store.

THE NATION FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2013

35

With ekpoita :funtreatsvilla@yahoo.com / 08077706130

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

ACROSS

DOWN

1.Resort (3) 4.Repair (5) 7. Examine (4) 9. Buttocks (4) 10. Peruse (4) 12. Entreat (4) 14. Trunk (5) 16. Perform (2) 17. Insect (3) 18. Ominous (4) 20. Musical Note (2) 21. Full of Mint (5) 22. Yes (3) 23. Single (2) 24. Nipples (5)

1.Begin (5) 2.For Each (3) 3.Convince (6) 5.Mud (4) 6. Fellow (4) 8. Brief (5) 11. End Prematurely (5) 13. Proceed (2) 15. Carry out order (4) 16. Noise (3) 18. Have Dinner (4) 19. Seeing Organs (4) 20. Beam (3) 21. Rug (3)

MISSING LETTERS All the words in the columns below have lost their first letters as indicated by the blank spaces above them. You are required to find and affix them. When done, all the first letters will form a 9-letter, sexually offensive word or action. Happy Puzzling!‘

SANDS OF TIME

FOOD FOR THOUGHT The Chicken

Marilyn Munroe - 50 years after

Pep Talk

Brain Teaser A man in a restaurant asked a waiter for a juice glass, a dinner plate, water, a match, and a lemon wedge. The man poured enough water onto the plate to cover it.

“If you can get the water on the plate into this glass without touching or moving this plate, I will give you $100,” the man said. “You can use the match andA lemon to do this.”

A few minutes later, the waiter walked away with $100 in his a n pocket. How did the waiter get the water into the glass?

HUMOUR True Believers The two thousand member Baptist church was filled to overflowing capacity one Sunday morning. The preacher was ready to start the sermon when two men, dressed in long black coats and black hats entered thru the rear of the church.

One of the two men walked to the middle of the church while the other stayed at the back of the church. They both then reached under their coats and withdrew automatic weapons. The one in the middle announced, “Everyone willing to take a bullet for Jesus stay in your seats!”

Naturally, the pews emptied, followed by the choir. The deacons ran out the door, followed by the choir director and the assistant pastor.

After a few moments, there were about twenty people left sitting in the church. The preacher was holding steady in the pulpit. The men put their weapons away and said, gently, to the preacher, “All right, pastor, the hypocrites are gone now. You may begin the service.”

Getting Into Fights A young couple drove several miles down a country road, not saying a word.

An earlier discussion had led to an argument, and neither wanted to concede their position.

ANSWER

First, the waiter stuck the match into the lemon wedge, so that it would stand straight. Then he lit the match, and put it in the middle of the plate with the lemon. Then, he placed the glass upside-down over the match. As the flame used up the oxygen in the glass, it created a small vacuum, which sucked in the water through the space between the glass and the plate. Thus, the waiter got the water into the glass without touching or moving the plate.

You can try this experiment at home with appropriate supervision.

August 5, 2012 marked the 50th anniversary of Marilyn Monroe’s death, and still, a half century later, the world is fascinated by the legend of Hollywood’s most celebrated sex symbol. Marilyn the icon will continue to be an indelible persona in our pop culture, but behind the movie star, there was a woman who few knew as well as photographer Sam Shaw.

Shaw famously shot the iconic image of Marilyn standing over a subway grate with her skirt flying on the set of The Seven Year Itch. But that celebrated photo was just one of many the photographer captured of Marilyn, and his candid images of her, off-set and away from the movie cameras, are the images that tell a more intimate story of a friend whom he described as “beautiful without makeup and in spirit as a person.” Marilyn and Shaw first met in the early 1950s when he was the photographer on the set of Elia Kazan’s Viva Zapata!. The charismatic Shaw was a friend to actors Anthony Quinn and Marlon Brando (whom he famously photographed in a ripped tshirt for Kazan’s A Streetcar Named Desire.) But it was Kazan’s girlfriend at the time, a young actress named Marilyn Monroe, whom Shaw developed a close friendship with during the making of that movie. Kazan had asked Marilyn to drive Shaw to the set everyday, and this was the start of a relationship between the movie star and photographer that lasted until Marilyn’s tragic death in 1962. Shaw, who died in 1999, said of Marilyn: “I see her as a metaphor for Hollywood...the good, the bad and the beautiful.” And in describing his famous photographs of her, he explained: “I just want to show this fascinating woman with her guard down, at work, at ease, offstage, during joyous moments in her life as often she was— alone.”

Once upon a time, there was a large mountainside, where an eagle’s nest rested. The eagle’s nest contained four large eagle eggs. One day an earthquake rocked the mountain causing one of the eggs to roll down the mountain, to a chicken farm, located in the valley below. The chickens knew that the must protect and care for the eagle’s egg, so an old hen volunteered to nurture and raise the large egg.

One day, the egg hatched and a beautiful eagle was born. Sadly, however, the eagle was raised to be a chicken. Soon, the eagle believed he was nothing more than a chicken. The eagle loved his home and family, but his spirit cried out for more. While playing a game on the farm one day, the eagle looked to the skies above and noticed a group of mighty eagles soaring in the skies. “Oh,” the Eagle cried, “I wish I could soar like those birds.”

The chickens roared with laughter, “You cannot soar with those birds. You are a chicken and chickens do not soar.” The eagle continued staring, at his real family up above, dreaming that he could be with them. Each time the eagle would let his dreams be known, he was told it couldn’t be done.

That is what the eagle learned to believe. The eagle, after time, stopped dreaming and continued to live his life like a chicken.

Finally, after a long life as a chicken, the eagle passed away.

The moral of the story: You become what you believe you are; so if you ever dream to become an eagle follow your dreams, not the words of a chicken.

As they passed a barnyard of mules and pigs, the husband sarcastically asked, “Are they relatives of yours?”

“Yes,” his wife replied. “I married into the family.”

Touch a life today by a smile, a word of encouragement or any kind gesture.

Our ideas like orange plants, spread out in proportion to the size of the box which imprisons the roots.

– Edward Bulwer Lytton

THE NATION FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2013

36

COMMENTARY

I

T may not be strange to say that the similitude of Islam and Muslims is like that of a snail and its shell. They share a common destiny and remain as inseparable as the sun and its beaming light. None can afford to part with the other without dire consequences. Today, as the world’s fastest growing religion, Islam has a population of about 1.7 billion adherents. This means that one in every five human beings on earth is a Muslim. But in concrete terms, where are those Muslims?

Islam totally personifies the divine legal theory that sustains the magnificent grandeur of the universe. That theory is fully embodied in the Qur’an. Muslims, on the other hand, stand as the agents supposedly showcasing the norms of Islam. Without Islam, there would have been no Muslims.

And without Muslims, Islam would have remained a permanent abstraction randomly tapping the imagination of mankind. This brings a vital question to one’s mind: where is their meeting point?

Long before the Almighty Allah informed the Angels of His intention to create man, Islam had been in existence. And contrary to the misconception of many uninformed elements, Islam (meaning peace) had been in place before the creation of man. It was the harmony that held all the pre-Adam elements together in a perfect co-existence.

Without that harmony, the primogenitor of mankind would not have found a peaceful abode in the Garden of Eden. Thus, the unification of peace and man came to promise the continuity of the universe.

Ironically, however, the world of Islam, especially in contemporary times, has turned a new phase at the instance of its adherents called ‘Muslims’. And with that new phase, the falconer seems to have been estranged by the falcons. Muslims, like the shell of a snail are found everywhere but without Islam. And the latter, as long prophesied by the Messenger of Allah (SAW), is rapidly becoming an orphan.

Now, Islam is like a snail without its shell.

If that great religion is vividly and effectively present in any part of the world today, it is in the West. And that confirms the fact that effective quality rather than idle quantity is what Islam needs to thrive as a divine religion. Muslims in the West are not merely facing a day to day war, they are permanently living on the battle ground. All the raging wars against Islam today, as in the past few centuries, are from the West. And the arsenal used by the West to execute those wars is funded directly or indirectly by Muslim countries.

There are about 23 Muslim Arab countries mostly in the Middle East and North Africa. These countries together control one fifth of the entire wealth in the world because of the enormous natural resources with which they are endowed. But in their quest for security other than that of Allah, they entrust virtually all their endowed assets to those who are waging war against Allah. More than 90% of the Muslim Arab wealth is invested in the West or kept in Western bank accounts in the name of foreign reserves. A major chunk of those assets is not only used to fight Muslims in Afghanistan, Iraq and Palestine, it is also dished out as loan to poor African countries at throat-cutting interest rate in the name of London and Paris Clubs.

And when those Western oppressors want to manipulate African mentality to their own advantage, they bring to Africa some pittance as grants, foundations and scholarship out of the profit they made from Muslim Arab money kept in their custody.

This is to create the impression that they are friends of Africans. Yet, when the beneficiaries of such largess try to show gratitude, they (the oppressors) come out in their true colours by dictating certain terms and conditions which may fetter those beneficiaries to the stake of indebtedness. It should be noticed that Western largess flows to Africa only when military attacks on Muslims in some other parts of the world are raging or about to rage. The largess is a sort of Greek gift with which to gag the innocent Africans and thereby prevent them from joining their brothers and sisters in condemning such attacks. Thus, the Westerners strangely serve as proxy for Muslim Arab philanthropy.

Today Muslim Arabs are so disunited, disorganised and Islamically disorientated that they cannot even cooperate among themselves to confront a common problem. Rather than jointly solving a common problem, some of them prefer to team up with antagonists to fight their fellow Muslim brothers.

That is what happened during the Iranian revolution in 1979 when that country was seeking to liberate self from the Western imperialism imposed on her by Shah Pahlavi on behalf of the United States. Rather than cooperating with Iran to rid the region of imperialism, what the neighbour-

FEMI ABBAS ON Femabbas@yahoo.com 08122697498

Where are the Muslims? ing Iraq did with the support of other Arab countries was to take advantage of the then prevailing situation to attack Iran on behalf of America using the weapons freely supplied her by the latter. The devastating war which ensued from that attack lasted for eight sorrowful years before the aggressor called for peace having realised the impossibility of winning the precipitated war.

Not long after that, the same Iraq was instigated by America to invade Kuwait as a compensation for her military losses in the war with Iran an incident that caused the 1991 Gulf war which was waged by some American led Western allied forces against Iraq.

And, ironically, in that war, Egypt, a fellow Muslim Arab country was found on the side of the European allies that bombarded Iraq and killed Muslim women and children in their thousands. Egypt’s gain in the war was a debt relief from America to the tune of $20 billion.

For a long time, there was no love lost between Egypt and Libya while Hosni Mubarak and Muammar Gaddafi held sway as Heads of both countries. The neighbourhood of Algeria and Morocco has for decades been hotter than a battle ground between two sworn enemies. There is also a permanent cold war which began in the 1930s between Saudi Arabia and Yemen which is still ongoing till date.

Syria and Iraq continue a diplomatic cat and mouse game as they do not realistically see eye to eye though they are both Arab countries. Iran, the only non-Arab (Persian) country in the Gulf sub-region, is constantly suspicious of her neighbouring Arab countries because the latter have tacitly ostracised her on the basis of racial discrimination and denominational ideology. Yet, they all subscribe to Islam and claim to be Muslim countries.

In her own bid to imbibe the so-called Western civilisation, Turkey, an Islamic but non-Arab country, has voluntarily enslaved herself to secularism, a notion imposed on her in the 1920s by Mustapha Kamal Ataturk and which became entrenched in the country’s constitution. It must be recalled that Turkey, with her 89% Muslim population was the last seat of Islamic Caliphate which ended in 1924 at the instance of Ataturk. In all these, where are the Muslims?

Here in Nigeria, the situation is by far worse. Mosques, which Prophet Muhammad (SAW) established as the permanent axis around which all Muslim activities must rotate, have been totally reduced to the level of meeting for Salat alone. Only very few Mosques have the necessary facilities useful for the Ummah. Even bank accounts are not considered necessary as the Imams and members of the Mission Boards of most Mosques act as unofficial treasurers in which capacity they pocket the money collected daily or weekly. Against the Prophet’s prescription, most of our Mosques are without libraries or study rooms where the young ones can take advantage of computer and internet to be thoroughly educated. It does not bother those Imams that only few Muslim youths come to worship in the Mosques. What bothers them is the absence of rich Muslims who can donate remarkable sums of money to the Mosques for them to pocket. Against Islamic prescription, those Imams are the collectors, the distributors and the recipients of Zakah to the detriment of the Ummah.

Where are the Muslims?

In Nigeria today, only a few Muslim schools are good enough to compete with schools established by non-Muslims. Even those few especially in the Southwest, are mostly without Mosques since the motive of establishing them transcends religion. For instance, the very first secondary school in West Africa (Ahmadiyyah College, Agege, Lagos), established in 1948 by Ahmadiyyah Movement in Islam (now Anwarul-Islam Movement of Nigeria) had no Mosque for many decades after its establishment. Yours sincerely was a teacher of Arabic and Islamic Studies in that school for about six years

between 1971 and 1976. And all efforts to encourage its founders to provide a Mosque for the students yielded no result. It is doubtful that the school had any Mosque until it celebrated its 60th year anniversary recently.

The same is the case with Ansar-ud-Deen College, Isolo, Lagos, which was established in 1954 purportedly for the purpose of giving Muslim pupils Western education with Islamic orientation which those pupils could not get in Christian schools.

Whereas, the first building to be erected on the site of any Christian school is a chapel where pupils can worship in Christian way, this is not the case with Muslim schools. As a result, most of those pupils have often had cause to regret attending Muslim schools even years after their graduation. If the situation was that bad in the past and there is no plan for the future where are the Muslims?

Three Universities are known to be the oldest in the world today. The three are situated in the Arab world confirming that the idea of University education got to the West from the Muslims. They are Al-Azhar University in Cairo, Egypt, Qarawiyyin University in Fez, Morocco and Zaytuniyyah University in Tunis, Tunisia. All of them, established well over one thousand years ago, started in the Mosques. Yet, they were all preceded by the University of Cordoba which was the very first University established in the world. The objective of starting each of them from the Mosque was to enable students know that whatever knowledge they acquired ought to be used in the service of Allah.

The Christian West which borrowed from the Muslims the noble idea of using a religious sanctuary as the foundation of a school or a University saw the sense in it and made it the cornerstone of their educational orientation. Thus in Nigeria and elsewhere, no Christian Missionary schools are established without the Church serving as their first buildings.

What is the objective of the Muslim schools established in Nigeria without Mosques? In Islam, Mosque is not for Salat alone neither is it to be headed by half-educated elements in the name of Imams. It is rather an allencompassing centre for all aspects of Muslim lives. For Muslims, Mosque is a school, a library, a hospital, a trade centre, a bank, a Parliament and a court of law. To limit the Mosque to prayer alone therefore, as done in Nigeria is a terrible disservice to Islam.

Muslims who worship regularly in the Mosque must have something to gain economically, socially, politically and perhaps medically besides the rewards accruing to them from observance of Salat. Coming for congregational prayers five times every day without any temporal gain does not help the course of Islam. Islam is about temporal and spiritual lives and not about the latter alone. The Mosque ought to have endowments for widows. It ought to have scholarship programmes for orphans and indigent pupils. It also ought to have empowerment programmes for the jobless. And those employed as Imams and other officials in the Mosque ought to be well treated in terms of remunerations and social welfare if only to avoid corruption and redundancy. But how can all these be provided when the Mosques themselves are erected without any plan for the future?

On my way back from Hajj in 2007, I was asked to pray for a Christian who spent a lot of money to renovate the Mosque at the Hajj camp of the Murtala Muhammed Airport, Ikeja, who felt irritated by the nonchalant attitude of Muslim moneybags to the ramshackle state of that Mosque.

And shortly thereafter, I also observed Jum’at prayers at the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan Mosque where the Imam told the congregation that the renovation of that Mosque had just been completed by a concerned Christian. Yes, it is true that some Muslims also build or renovate Churches but the fact remains

that there is no much negligence on the part of Christians towards their Churches as there is on the part of Muslims towards their Mosques. Where then are the Muslims?

Islam preceded Christianity in reaching the shores of Nigeria by about 500 years.

The one came in the 11th century. The other came in the 16th century. Yet the gap, in terms of education and development between both today, is as wide as that between the rise and the set of the sun. If this is blamed on colonial rule, on what should failure of Islamic education be blamed? The Qur’an which embodies the language of Islamic worship is known to have been translated into only two Nigerian languages (Hausa and Yoruba). And this is the best that has been done so far, in about 1000 years, to make that sacred book understandable to millions of Nigerian Muslims. Arabic is not a Nigerian language. Most Muslims do memorise some contents of the Qur’an and recite them when observing Salat without comprehending what they are reciting. If majority of the adherents of a religion are tied to illiteracy and ignorance, how can such a religion be understood? The Bible which came to Nigeria 500 years after the arrival of the Qur’an has been translated into at least about six Nigerian languages and further efforts are being made to do more. Where are the Muslims?

In the 1960s and 1970s, most of the praisesinging records especially in the Southwest were waxed for Muslim money bags who hardly saw any need to train their children.

And that was the time when non-Muslims would rather starve than see their children out of school. Today, the result speaks clearly for itself. Currently, it is said that over 10 million Nigerian children of school age are out of school. There are no readily available figures to delineate their percentages on the basis of religion. But one can be sure that over 80% of them will be Muslims. If this is the case in the age of internet, why won’t Muslims form majority of the touts in motor parks as well as hooligans working for politicians? And there is a glaring evidence for this especially in Ibadan, the political Centre of Yoruba nation where hooliganism is taken for a calling. Where are the Muslims?

After many years of struggling to get their economic and political rights failed, the people of the Southsouth of Nigeria discovered the enormous power of the media to win wars where weapons are helpless.

They quickly invested heavily in it. And today, they are not only getting their rights on demand, they are also compelling the entire world to listen to them as they now control the Nigerian media which they use to command the attention of all and sundry. Where are the Muslim media after the demise of Bashorun MKO Abiola and the dysfunction of his Concord newspaper?

Rather than investing in the future, an average Nigerian Muslim moneybag prefers to eat his cake now with the hope of having it again later. Rather than fighting a just course, an average Nigerian Muslim elite pitches his tent with the wrong camp just to gain a momentary benefit. Or how does one place a situation like that of Abiola who, as a matter of right, contested Presidential election and won only for fellow Muslims to gang up and annul the election unjustifiably and thereafter clamped the winner into prison as a transit towards his final demise? That ugly episode is the seed of cord of the bitter political fruit that Nigerians are now being forced to eat and swallow.

If there is any hope for the future of Islam, the focus must be towards the West.

And that is in confirmation of Prophet Muhammad’s prophecy of over 1,400 years ago when he said that one of the signs of recognising the nearness of the ‘Last Day’ was for the sun to start rising from the West. The sun which the Prophet meant was not the physical one. That sun is ISLAM. And we have started to see its rays coming from the West where the divine religion is growing geometrically and recognised as the fastest growing religion in the world today. It could not have been otherwise. Islam is a religion of knowledge. It takes only the knowledgeable to recognise it as such. The West today is the home of knowledge and not a mere region of literacy. That is why it takes a religion of knowledge to be fast spreading among knowledgeable people.

However, for those of us who are so much concerned about the situation of Islam vis a vis the Muslims especially in Nigeria today, there is consolation. That consolation is from Allah who says in Qur’an 15 Verse 9 thus: “It was ‘We’ who revealed the Qur’an and it is ‘We’ who will certainly preserve it”. We pray Allah to wake up the Muslims from their slumber so that in the future, our grand children will have no cause to repeat the question: “Where are the Muslims?

THE NATION FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2013

37

SOCIETY

The remains of Pa Michael Aderibigbe, father of Mr Yinka Aderibigbe of The Nation, were interred penultimate Friday at the Cathedral of St. Stephen’s Church, Itaasin, Modakeke, Osun State. AMIDU ARIJE was there.

Adieu, ‘people’s teacher’ I

T was a solemn moment for the family of Pa Michael Aderibigbe whose remains were buried in Modakeke, Osun State, last Friday.

For the children of the late Pa Aderibigbe, it was a time to thank God for a life well spent.

The late Aderibigbe was a teacher in many schools in Ife, Modakeke and the environs for many years.

He taught and served as headmaster in many schools. Some of his pupils are teachers today.

The late Aderibigbe was also known for his philanthropy – he assisted many pupils in his community to get quality -education. To this end, he set up a group called the Quality Group which he headed for over 30years.

The former treasurer of the St Stephen’s Church died last December at 84.

A huge crowd came to honour him last Friday.

The body, in a white casket, was received at the church entrance by the clergy men.

In his sermon, Rev. Canon Olanipekun urged the children and family members to emulate the virtues of their father for he was ‘a true servant of God,’ who sincerely served the church.

After the service, the closing hymn was taken with processions of church warders and priests. The corpse was taken for interment.

The children, wives and family members watched helplessly as their father’s body was lowered into the grave about 1pm.

After the interment, they moved to the Modakeke High School, for the reception.

Before their arrival, guests had filled the giant tent mounted on the Modakeke High School playing ground.

Songs from popular musicians kept the guests nodding their heads; those who could not resist the melodious tunes took to the dance floor.

When the family members joined them, the merriment continued. They

A thanksgiving has been held to mark the 70th birthday of the Patron-General of the Celestial Church of Christ (CCC) Wonderland Group of Churches, Evangelist G.O Fagbemi.

JUMOKE IDOWU was there.

H

E surely is blessed. He radiated joy as he danced to the altar in praise and thanksgiving.

The Patron General of the Celestial Church of Christ (CCC) Wonderland Group of Churches, Evangelist G.O Fagbemi, having attained the biblical age of three scores and ten, rolled out the drums in celebration.

The occasion was witnessed by his family members and friends who stormed the Celestial Church of Christ (CCC) Wonderland Group of Churches Iyana-Ipaja, Lagos.

It was one of his happiest days and the celebrator radiated with joy and excitement. He felt like a little boy who was having his first birthday.

•From left: Mrs Ronke Aderibigbe; Mrs Romoke Aderibigbe; Mr Funso Aderibigbe; Prof Afolabi and Mr Kadiri

•The widows Felicia (left) and Olusola

•Deceased’s son Yinka; deceased's sister Mrs Felicia Afolabi and Mrs Ronke Omotoso

exchanged pleasantries and banters with the guests.

D’Omega Band led by Dotun Ale entertained guests.

Guests were treated to choice foods and drinks. It was fun all day.

One of the sons, Asiwaju Funso Aderibigbe, said he was happy for the life well spent by his father and the legacies he left behind.

“I feel great, it is the prayer of every child to bury their parents and not the other way round, so I feel great; that is why you see people merry and happy. My father was an enigma; he was a disciplinarian; one thing that I really cherished in him is his Godliness; he taught us how to embrace God,” he said.

The deceased’s brother, Prof Dele Afolabi, a lecturer at the General Studies Department of the Ladoke Akintola University, described the deceased as a “teacher of teachers.”

“He was a good man, good father, highly disciplined, very honest, sin-

of s phase in his life.

‘It is an end of a phase in my life, I was used to seeing and interacting with him each time I had opportunity of coming home. We talk through the night because he always had so much to tell me, but that face is gone now,” he said.

To Yinka, his only regret is that he would have no confidant again.

“I will miss his love and prayer,” he said.

The widow, Mrs Elizabeth Olusola, was happy with what she described as the good life her husband lived.

She was grateful for having the deceased as a husband and would remember his cleanliness and love for his children.

“I will, forever, be grateful for your deeds and positive impact on all your children. Your cleanliness is part of what sticks in my mind. Having a man like you as my husband is part of the greatest things that will ever happen to me in life,” she wrote in her tribute.

•Representative of Education Minister of State, Mrs Lolo Rosetta Ofor

cere and forthright. He was an incorruptible person; a committed teacher, he was the one that taught us how to burn midnight oil, he also taught us

•Evang Nathaniel Arabambi

how to live a good life, he loved and he wanted the best for all of us,” he said.

Mr Yinka Aderibigbe of The Nation said the death of his father was the end

70 cheers to a philanthropist The septuagenarian looked quite younger than his age. He didn’t wear anything spectacular but adorned the sect’s uniform of a white garment. His smile complemented his clothing.

Encomiums poured in for Fagbemi, who have scaled through many challenges and tribulations in life and yet lived to the age of 70.

To many, his evangelism has been a success and having been blessed with a peaceful family and longetivity, he had many reasons to thank God for his life.

To rejoice with him were his family members and church members and friends who came from far and near.

They all looked stunning in their pink and peach aso-ebi attires.

Beginning the activities for his birthday was a church service held earlier that Sunday. It was a thanksgiving service and began at 10am with a prayer session led by the celebrator.

Hymns were sung by the church’s choirs.

The readings of the day were taken from Genesis 3:1-24 for the first reading and the second was taken from Romans 5: 12- 21 Whilst the biography of Fagbemi was read, many wowed at the fact that he once worked as a Customs officer.

Though now retired, he served dili-

gently. The graduate of the University of Ibadan (UI) joined the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) after his Youth Service in 1973.

The church choir led by Prince Adeniyi Adewale –Solomon rendered melodious gospel and worship songs that entertained guests and kept them on the dance floor.

A three layered cake was cut by the celebrator. He was joined by his wife and children.

Later during the ceremony, the evangelist changed his dress to a white agbada and purple cap for the reception which was held in the church premises.

Being the cynosure of all eyes, the celebrator gave his best steps on the dance floor.

The church’s Secretary Mr Adeola Mayigun, described the ‘birthday boy’ as a mentor worthy of emulation and a man who reveres God. “I am happy the patron’s life is being well spent. Having shepherded many churches is an acknowledgement of the good will of the man,” he said.

One of the celebrator’s friends, Mr Yomi Osuniyi said: “Baba is a unique person, a humble man, his integrity speaks for itself.” he said.

•The celebrator Fagbemi and his wife cutting the birthday cake PHOTO: SOLOMON ADEOLA

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S OCIETY The Osun State government has held a reception for former Chief of Defence Staff Air Chief Marshal Oluseyi Petinrin and former Chief of Air Staff Air Marshal Muhammed Dikko Umar. ADESOJI ADENIYI writes.

T

WO retired top military officers were treated to a red carpet reception last Friday by Osun State Governor, Rauf Aregbesola.

Friends and relations of the duo, and senior government officials joined former Chief of Defence Staff Air Chief Marshal Oluseyi Petinrin and former Chief of Air Staff Air Marshal Muhammed Dikko Umar at a banquet hosted for them by Aregbesola at the Government House.

The Banquet Hall of the Government House was a beehive of activities. Many uniformed military officers paraded the arena. Men of the State Security Service were also on hand to ensure that invitations were checked before guests made their entry.

Governor Aregbesola, who extolled the virtues of Petinrin and Umar, described them as one of the finest officers of the nation’s military, adding that they brought into their office the kind of elegance almost lacking before they assumed office. The governor enthused that he was proud to be associated with these officers for their sterling performance in the course of serving their country.

Olufon of Ifon-Osun, Oba Almaroof Adekunle Magbagbeola, in his remarks, said Petinrin, who is from Ipetu-Ijesha in Osun State, by all standards is truly a virtuous citizen of Osun State by his character. The monarch praised the officers, describing them both as distinguished and detribalized Nigerians, whose contribution to defense of the nation is commendable. The monarch said the top military brass also shows unrivalled commitment to the cause the Yoruba people. The governor’s Chief of Staff, Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola, said the civic reception for the two military officers was one well deserved, noting that it was a token from the state government to appreciate Petinrin and Umar.

In response, Petinrin sang the praises of the governor, who he said is a working for the interest and the progress of the state. He com-

•Governor Aregbesola (2nd left) decorating Dikko (rtd) with the State Crest. With them is Petinrin (right) and Mrs Laoye-Tomori

of Air Marshal Umar,” Petinrin said. For Umar, who was radiating with smiles, said he felt elated for the reception. He thanked the government and the people of the Osun State for considering him and Petinrin worthy of honour.

In attendance were Deputy Governor, Otunba Grace Titi Laoye-Tomori; Chief of Staff to the Governor, Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola; Head of Service Mr. Sunday Olayinka Owoeye; the state

chairman of the Action Congress of Nigeria, Elder Adebiyi Adelowo; former GOC 2nd Mechanised Division now the Chief of Administration in the Army, MD Abubakar; many cabinet members, members of the House of Assembly and traditional rulers.

Among the traditional rulers at the occasion were the Owa Obokun of Ijeshaland, Oba Gabriel Adekunle Aromolaran, Timi of Ede, Oba Muniru Adesola Lawal, Aragbiji of Iragbiji, Oba Abdulrasheed Olabomi, Olufon of Ifon-Osun, Oba Almaroof Adekunle Magbabeola.

others shortlisted for the 2012 edition of the merit award.

“The process of the emergence of the award recipients, is a thorough and transparent procedure that puts into consideration the achievements, commitment and vision of the candidates before any of them is finally shortlisted.”

Receiving the award, which he dedicated to the Comptroller General of Nigerian Customs, Abdullahi Dikko Inde, Biu said the gesture would motivate the zone to work harder to rid the country of contraband.

“After my assumption as the Comptroller of the Federal Operations Unit ,Owerri, Zone C, with the assistance of my lieutenants, we were able to reduce the rate of

smuggling to the barest minimum.”

The elated Customs boss, who has won several other awards since assumption of office as the helmsman of the zone, however, charged the media to assist his officers in the anti-smuggling campaign.

Congratulating the Comptroller, the Deputy Comptroller in charge of Administration and Revenue, Anthony Mba, thanked the organisation for recognising the contributions of the zone in its effort to stem smuggling in the country.

He affirmed positivity that the sterling leadership qualities of the Comptroller will galvanise the officers in the zone into action, assuring that the officers will not rest on their oars until the smugglers were stopped.

Honour for military chiefs mended the governor for his swift response in paying compensation to the people of IpetuIjesha, whose land Federal Government used to build an Air Force School.

“Aregbesola is an action governor. He is always interested in the growth and progress of Osun. He runs a nationalist government. He recognises good performance. This is why he is honouring a man from Kano in the person

Reward for diligence Comptroller in charge of Federal Operations Unit (FOU), Owerri Zone C of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Mohammed Biu, has been given an award by the International Merit Organisation (IMO) based in Geneva, Switzerland.

OKODILI NDIDI reports.

T

HE International Merit Organisation, South Africa has honoured the Comptroller in charge of Federal Operations Unit (FUO), Owerri Zone C, of the Nigeria Customs, Mohammed Biu with a merit award.

The award, in recognition of the unprecedented achievements of the Custom boss in the fight against smuggling in the 11 Southsouth and Southeastern states under the zone, was presented at the headquarters of the FOU Zone C at the Federal Secretariat.

It was a brief but well-attended ceremony.

Customs officers were decked in their full regalia.

On the award, the country representative of the organisation and the editor of the Global Newsreel magazine, Mr Tony Nzekwe, said the organiser’s choice of Biu as the recipient of the 2012 annual award of the International Merit Organisation (IMO), was influenced by his unprecedented achievements in the fight against smuggling in states

•Biu (right) receiving the award from Nzekwe

within his jurisdiction and for his professional conduct in the discharge of his duty.

Nzekwe said the annual award is given to outstanding individuals who have made remarkable contributions in their respective professions.

He said: “In the history of the FOU Owerri Zone C, no one has recorded the feat achieved by Biu in the last six months and it is the belief of this organisation that the award will spur him and his men to do more in safe guarding the country’s borders against the illicit smuggling racket.”

Highlighting the criteria for the conferment of the award, Nzekwe said Biu, through his professionalism and commitment to his job, has stood out among many

THE NATION FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2013

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COMMUNICATE YOUR IDEAS

Who do you communicate with? (1)

I •From left: Son of the deceased Taiwo; his wife Moyosore and Mr Akin Somefun

•Dr Elemo flanked by Dr Oderide (left) and Mr Okusagu

•From left: Rev Udofia; the provost Ven Peter Ogunmuyiwa and Ven Peter Oyedunmade PHOTOS: DAYO ADEWUNMI

Fond memories of a loving mother The remains of Madam Esther Olufunke Somefun have been interred in Lagos. A service of songs was held at the Saviour’s African Church Cathedral, Agege, a Lagos suburb. AMIDU ARIJE writes.

T

HE children of the late Madam Esther Olufunke Somefun, have celebrated what they call the good life of their mother who died at 89.

Eulogising the virtues of the late Madam Somefun, they described her as a mother to all, very loving and caring.

The funeral service was presided over by the Primate of the African Church, Rev Emmanuel Udofia, who extolled her virtues.

Guests converged on the Lagos State University (LASU) Museum field at Pen Cinema, Agege, Lagos, for entertainment. It was a big bash.

Five large tents were erected on the field. Guests stepped in, impres-

sive and resplendent in their flowerpatterned Ankara uniform of different styles.

The children left no stone unturned in ensuring their mother had a befitting burial, having trained them to be disciplined, honest and fear of God. At the reception was the Band of Faith Music led by Ayo Ajekigbe.

One after the other, each child of the deceased was called out to the dance floor.

Taiwo described his mother as an epitome of humility and honesty.

“Today, I celebrate her life and what she stood for: humility, contentment, hardwork, discipline and prudence. She was the foundation of

the family who led with diplomacy.

She will remain an important piece of a final puzzle in our hearts.”

Mrs Funke Ogundimu said she would miss her mother. She said her mother’s exit is painful.

In attendance were Chairman, Agege Local Government, Alhaji Abdul Kareem Jubril; Deputy Director at the Federal Institute of Research Oshodi (FIIRO), Dr Okeowo and his Director General Dr Gloria Elemo; Mrs Dupe Faworaja; Mrs Olabisi Obaseki; Chief Stephen Adeseun; Mrs Doyin Olaitan; Chief Felix Kokumo and Director General Nigeria Natural Medicine Agency (NNMA), Mr Tamunoibuomui Okusagu, among others.

NTRAPERSONAL Communication This week, we shall begin to consider the concept of communication under three broad categories; intrapersonal, interpersonal and mass communication. What makes one category different from the other is the audience with whom you are AMODU LANRE OLAOLU (Ph.D) communicating. Your success in sospeak2lanre@yahoo.com.

07034737394 achieving your life goals will be determined, to a large extent, by the way you manage each of these categories of communication.

Intrapersonal Communication: remember we said that each category is unique based on its target audience, so, the target here is you. ‘Intra’ simply means ‘within.’ Hence, intrapersonal communication involves you sending a message to yourself. There is a general believe that those who speak to themselves are either troubled or insane. This is not always the case. In fact, speaking to yourself is probably the most important influence in your life (though I suggest you don’t do it in public). Let us take a closer look at some of the elements of intrapersonal communication: •Powerful influence: there is a motivational story about a competition that took place in a certain village. According to the story, competitors were required to carefully place an egg on a teaspoon and move it from one end of the village to the other. Lined up on one side of the road were people hailing the contestants and on the other side, there were people booing them. After the competition, the winner was asked which group helped him the most- those hailing or those booing. Interestingly, he said neither of them helped.

His explanation was that if he had listened to those hailing him, he would have gotten over confident, while those booing him would have discouraged him. His strategy was to focus on his goal and repeatedly tell himself that he could make it. And of course he did.

When people want to be mischievous, they blame their failures on other people, but the ultimate responsibility actually lies with them.

It doesn’t matter if people told you that you would never succeed, your opinion is what counts. You have to decide to agree with them or reject their opinions. What you repeatedly tell yourself is what you eventually believe and act on.

•Asset and liability: what you tell yourself either helps you to succeed or to fail. According to Henry Ford, “Whether you think you can or you can’t. Either way you’re right.” It is what you believe about yourself that translate into action. Think about this, why is it that a lot of students don’t like mathematics? It is simply because they have convinced themselves that the subject is too complex and they don’t like it. Once they have concluded that, they stop concentrating and making efforts, hence, they continue to fail it. Whereas, some other students consider Mathematics to be their favourite course. It is all about what you tell yourself. If you deliberately control your thoughts and words to focus on positive things, they will become your assets, but if you focus on negative things or you allow your thoughts and words to roam uncontrolled, they will become your liabilities. There are some people who always look for the negative side of any matter or life as a whole. While they think they are only “being realistic,” they are actually preventing themselves from seeing possibilities. Really, only unrealistic things that have been achieved get celebrated.

•Thoughts vs words: thoughts are very strong; they ultimately control our actions. Have you ever realized that your mind is never empty? Most of the time, you are either thinking about something important, worrying, singing or day dreaming, among others. Most thoughts come into your mind subconsciously, that is why you find yourself humming a song you claim to hate. The song must have gotten into your mind, and before you knew it, you are singing it.

If negative thoughts about your life or business get into your mind, they paralyze you with fear and worry. Don’t ever try to fight them with positive thoughts because you will keep drifting back. The best way to deal with it is to engage in intrapersonal communication. Speak out positive things about the situation. Since your voice is louder than your thought, you will get to hear yourself and soon start believing. Don’t forget that faith comes by hearing.

•Formula for personal development: if you ever want to achieve personal success, engage in intrapersonal communication. A lot of times, your opinion about yourself is a result of what people think about you. That is why you ask people how you look before leaving home in the morning. While it is good to have positive reinforcement, what happens if everybody around believes that you can never succeed? It’s about time you start believing in yourself.

Therefore, if you want to excel in your personal endeavours, invest consciously in intrapersonal communication. Have a blessed week.

Dr. Amodu lectures at the Department of Mass Communication, Covenant University, Ota, Ogun State.

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SOCIETY The funeral of the late Justice Samuel Obakayode Eso was held with pomp and ceremony. It drew people from far and wide.

ADESOJI ADENIJI reports.

Exit of a judge’s judge F

AMILY members, friends and admirers of the late Justice Kayode Eso bid him farewell at a well attended ceremony at the Holy Trinity Anglican Church Cathedral, Omofe in Ilesa.

A day to the funeral, an afternoon of tributes was held at the Governor’s Office in Abere, Osogbo, the Osun State capital.

The ancient town of Ilesa witnessed a large presence of security men. The police; Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps and Federal Road Safety Commission, were on ground to enforce law and order.

He believed in the law as an instrument of justice for the rich and poor, the weak and strong. He was the quintessential legal intellectual. Everything was done to ensure that he had a befitting burial.

Justice Eso, who died on November 16 at 87, was described by eminent Nigerians who graced the funeral as one of the best on the bench.

At the church service before his body was laid to rest at his residence, the Primate of the Anglican Communion, Church of Nigeria, Archbishop Nicholas Okoh, described the late Justice Eso was an epitome of justice and fairness. In the sermon entitled “Life as an Investment,” Archbishop Okoh said there was no abiding city for any individual on earth, stressing that all mortals would one day taste death and return to their creator who would judge all their deeds on earth.

The cleric said: “Let the congregation here know that there is no abiding city on earth.

It is appointed to all human being to die once and after the death is judgment. Those who live long and those who live short will all die one day. We are all on transition here on earth and only those who lived righteously before they are transited to the great beyond can have eternal abode with God.” Bishop Okoh urged Christian faithful to renew their relationship with God. Extolled the virtues of late Justice Eso, said the late legal icon invested his life in the service of God and man. He enjoined every leader in the country to learn from the humble life style of Eso, who he described as a brave Judge of his time. According to him Eso during his life time gave justice to the poor and the rich in the society.

The cleric said: “He was an advocate of righteousness and a lover of truth. He defended the helpless and served his country till he breathed his last. Money is the bane of Nigeria progress. Our leaders have much love for money more than their countrymen.

Nigeria needs deliverance from all forms of

•From right: Erelu Obada; wife of Oyo State Governor, Mrs Florence Ajimobi; Dr Fayemi; Ogbeni Aregbesola; Mrs Laoye-Tomori and Otunba Adebayo

•From left: Younger brother of the deceased, Ven. Ladipo Eso; the widow, Helen; Special Adviser to Governor Aregbesola on Women Affairs and daughter of late Justice Kayode Eso, Mrs Funmilayo EsoWillams and the deceased’s son Olumide

evils that have befallen it. And every leader must be servant leader. Christianity demands that leaders must serve and not only lead the followers.”

Last Thursday, there was a a farewell oratory session in honour of the jurist tagged an Governor, Aregbesola, who reiterated on the reason for the celebration of the life of Justice Eso described him as a quintessential Omoluabi and a patriot.”

Aregbesola said Eso bestrode the Nigerian legal firmament and the hallowed chamber of the Supreme Court of Nigeria like a colossus.

Speaking further, the governor noted that Eso was a judge’s judge and the father of judicial activism in Nigeria.

Justice Eso had a stellar public service be-

ginning with his appointment as Acting Judge in Western Nigeria in 1965 until his retirement from the Supreme Court of Nigeria in 1990, he noted that Eso did not just pass through the land but left giant legal landmarks.

Eso was shot into national prominence when he successfully defended Black miners in the tin mines of Jos who were protesting against British colonial authorities.

Eso at the Western Nigeria judiciary gave landmark judgments, most notable of which was the trial of Prof Wole Soyinka for bringing gun into the television studio of Western Nigeria Broadcasting Corporation.

Governor Aregbesola said: “He dis-

charged and acquitted the Nobel Laureate.

This was a courageous decision that earned him ‘banishment’ to Akure as a punitive measure. He also gave the dissenting judgment on the 1979 presidential election petition. Though the Supreme Court with a verdict of 6-1 resolved the petition in favour of Alhaji Shehu Shagari of the National Party of Nigeria (NPN), justice Eso ruled in favour of Chief Obafemi Awolowo of Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN). His position then was that two thirds of 19 states ought to be 13 states and not 12 2/3 states since a state is a whole entity and indivisible in a mathematical sense.

“Justice Eso belonged to the rarest breed of legal minds whose life and times were who brought much erudition, especially elevated language, to the service of law without losing the greater objective of justice.

“He was a patriot per excellence, a humanist and above all, a devout Christian who wholeheartedly served his God, especially in his later days. He was a great ambassador of the State of Osun and an inimitable Ijesa. His passage is a huge loss to the legal profession and the cause of anti-corruption in the country. It is a void that would be difficult to fill,” Aregbesola said In attendance were the Osun State governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, Ekiti State governor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, the Minister of State for Defence, Erelu Olusola Obada; Osun State deputy governor, Otunba Grace Titi Laoye-Tomori and former Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and other related offences Commission (ICPC), Justice Emmanuel Ayoola. The Chief Justice of Nigeria, Halimat Muktar sent a representative.

Others were: Alhaji Moshood Adeoti, the Chief of Staff to the governor, Alhaji Gboyega.Oyetola, the Head of Service, Mr. Sunday Owoeye and other top government functionaries.

WHAT AND WHERE Inauguration

T

HE Muslim Community of the Maximum Security Prison, Kirikiri, Lagos will on Sunday inaugurate an ultra Modern Central Mosque and Quranic School for the prison.

The inauguration will hold at the MSP Central Mosque, KirikiriApapa, Lagos.

Royal father of the day is the Oba of Lagos, Oba Riliwan Akiolu, the Chief Imam of Lagos, Sheikh Garuba Akinola is the spiritual father the day. Expected as chairmen on the occasion are Alhaji Yusuf Maitama Sule,Mr Kolawole Moruf Ayanwale and Senator Ganiyu Solomon. While Alhaja Muyinat Shopeyin- Akande and Haija Kudirat Awopeju are chairpersons of the day. Guest of Honour is the Controller of Prison Lagos Command- Oguntuase Ebenezer, the Special Guest of Honour is ACG Isa Muhammed and the Chief Host is DCP Olumide Tunuoye.

T

HE golden jubilee anniversary of Comprehensive High School, Ayetoro Local Government Area of Ogun State will hold today with a gala night at OK Events Centre, Ibara Abeokuta, Ogun State.

The gala night will round up the week long activity of the school. Expected on the occasion are the Speaker, Ogun State House of Assembly, Hon Suraj Adekunbi and the State’s Commissioner for Education, Mr Segun Odubela.

Conference

F

•Pastor Oritsejafor

Lecture

Anniversary

INAL service of the 12th National Biennial Conference of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria will hold today at the Uyo Stadium, Akwa Ibom State.

The conference, which will be ministered by President of the Christian Association of Nigeria Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor, is themed: A People with a Mandate.

Other men of God expected at the occasion are the General Overeseer of the Redeemed Christain Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, Rev. Uma Ukpai, Bishop Mike Okonkwo and Archbishop Margaret Idahosa.

B

IBLE Society of Nigeria will today hold its fifth annual founders’ day lecture and award ceremony at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA), Victoria Island, Lagos.

The lecture is themed: Selfless Service: Key to Achieving Sustainable National Economic Growth and Development.

Guests expected on the occasion are Nigerians former Military President General Yakubu Gowon, former President , Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, Lagos State Governor, Babatunde Raji Fashola, the Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egba land- Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, former Lagos State Governor, Brig. General Mobolaji Johnson, CEO Mondabdola Group, Chief Bode Akindele, Prelate Meth-

T

•Gen Gowon

odist Church of Nigeria, Dr. Sunday Ola Makinde, Prof Pat Utomi, Dr. Christopher Kolade, and former Managing Director of the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Dr. Gaius Obaseki.

Funeral HE final burial ceremony of late Madam Sidikatu Abeni Odunuga will hold tomorrow at her residence in Sagamu, Ogun State.

Guests will be entertained immediately after the prayers at the same venue.

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FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2013

POLITICS THE NATION

E-mail:- politics@thenationonlineng.net

Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) chieftain Senator Olabiyi Durojaiye is 80 today. He spoke with EMMANUEL OLADESU and JEREMIAH OKE on the journey so far, the controversial pact bewteen Alliance for Democracy (AD) and former President Olusegun Obasanjo, Afenifere crisis and constitution review.

I

N the aborted Third Republic, you joined politics and vied for the Presidency. Do you regret not being President of Nigeria?

I am not regretting it at all. There cannot be two presidents at a time. By the time I ran as presidential aspirant, there were 12 of us in the primaries in the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and 11 in the NRC. A friend told me that someone told him that, if anyone should be considered, it is Durojaye because he is the most qualified, in terms of integrity and knowledge. I contested and the thing was cancelled on October 17, 1992. I would have done well for my country, but, if they don’t want me, I’ll go back to where I am coming from.

It is good to have independent means of livelihood. That is why I am one of the people advocating that parties should not nominate people who have no means of independent earning, so that when they fail in elections, they will have something to fall back to. As a qualified lawyer, I have nothing to worry about at all. I knew if I could not serve my country as a President, I could serve as a good citizen and that was what I have been doing.

As a Senator, what value did you add to the system?

The major landmark achievement and the value I added to the system as a senator was the nine reasons I canvassed against the impeachment of our leaders. In 2002, President Olusegun Obasanjo and Senate President Ayim Pius Ayinm were at loggerheads. At the beginning of that year, they were very good friends. When we opposition parties moved that certain corrections should be made on the electoral bill in 2001, which was tampered with before an ascent was given, he supported Obasanjo. When we resumed in January, we said no, the bill has to be abrogated and reenacted as we wanted the electoral bill to be. The President of the Senate was saying we should forget it because we are one nation, regardless of the party affiliation. Then, I said ‘I don’t trust your friendship with Mr. President; we are supposed to be watchdog, it is normal to be loyal to your man, but be careful. Let us oppose what is wrong and do what is right’. However, I don’t know what happened within their party. The President was recruiting some supporters to impeach Ayim and Ibrahim Mantu his deputy.

But Ayim used the advantage of incumbency because he had the larger number in the house and none of them had the two-third that was required to impeach. Therefore, every vote counted. Meanwhile, I was a bit indisposed and went to treat myself in America. The Whip of my party, Senator Emmanuel Differ, was calling me on phone that they needed me at home. I decided to fly back home. I traveled back home overnight and the first thing I did was to interview Ayinm and I said to him that, remember I told you that that man, a solder, is a hard nut, don’t knock your head against Obasanjo because it will not pay

•Durojaiye

‘AD/Obasanjo pact was a mistake’ you, because you are like a son to me. Meanwhile what we are reading in the America newspapers were uncomplimentary for the image of the country. Many awful things were published in the papers. The supporters of Chief Obasanjo were accusing Ayim and Ayim’s supporters too were hitting back and the thing was echoing abroad, so I was worried. I saw Ayim around 11pm and by the time I would see President Obasanjo, it was about 1am. Senator Peter Adeyemo representing Oyo could beer me witness because he was with Ayim. I called the Alliance for Democracy (AD) caucus leader in the Senate, Senator Mojisoluwa Akinfemwa, and requested him to summon a meeting. That morning, I drafted nine reasons why Nigeria cannot afford to impeach any of its leaders.

Those of us in NADECO cannot allow the democracy we fought fought to crumble. I argued that the impeachment should not take place. So, every three hours, the Radio Nigeria, NTA and the private electronic media across the country were broadcasting my nine reasons against impeachment. That was the end of the crises.

I also helped the retirees to make a law that would enable them to receive their gratuities on the day of their retirement. Alhaji Yayale Ahmed was the Head of Service. Each time he wanted to give out the cheques, he would call me to come and present to some of the retirees.

Also one of my colleagues, Senator Wahab Tafida, the Nigeria High commissioner to Great Britain, always commended me for the role I played in the establishment of the National Assembly Service Commission.

Along with the late Senator Chuba Okadigbo, I was part of the team that investigated the Odi massacre. I wrote a fine report.

I want you to reflect on the controversial between Alliance for Democracy and Obasanjo, ahead of the 2003 elections.

I was not a party to it, but I cannot absolve myself from the responsibility because, if I did not share the opinion of our representatives, I should have kicked against it. But I was equally at fault. We trusted the solder, contrary to the advice of our leader, the late Abraham Adesanya. He said the first lesson a solder can teach anyone is deception because, if they offered the right hand to you in hand shake, you should be careful because the other hand may have a dagger. So, he said to the governors who led the delegation to negotiate with the PDP to be careful. People were ridiculing Obasanjo as the man without constituency because Obasanjo could not deliver his constituency. The late Lam Adesina appealed to us that we should advise our people in his local government to vote for him at the local government level, but when it comes to other elections, they should vote for our party, so that he could deliver his constitu-

‘We trusted the solder, contrary to the advice of our leader, the late Abraham Adesanya. He said the first lesson a solder can teach anyone is deception because, if they offered the right hand to you in hand shake, you should be careful because the other hand may have a dagger. But it was only Tinubu who had that foresight to say that, with the advice of Baba Adesanya, he will not go with this arrangement in Lagos’

ency because Obasanjo is our man. Though I warned against that, despite the fact that I was not at the meeting. But I am not pointing accusing fingers to our governors. If I had thought they were wrong, I would have said no. But it was only Tinubu who had that foresight to say that, with the advice of Baba Adesanya, he will not go with this arrangement in Lagos. What the soldier later did to us was shocking.The Awujale and the people of Ijebu were strongly behind me because they knew I performed. So, they wanted me for the second time, but we were rigged out by the solder because we were too trusting.

It’s all history now.

What are the circumstances that led to your brief detention during the military regime?

It was not a brief detention because I spent up to one and a half years in detention with one meal a day, sleeping on the bare floor and mosquitoes nearly ate up the whole of my body. In fact, at a time I suspected that the security men were unleashing mosquitoes to come and deal with me. It was too much, and the circumstances were because we stood for the truth. Abacha is dead now; may his soul rest in peace. He sent for me through Gusau.

I was the President of Kuru Alumni Association. He said: “Our President, we all admire you and we like you, but each time we received a security report, your name is always among the people who are attempting to destabilise this country. Why are you doing this?” I said am not destabilising this country and he said, but the President is worried about that and he respected you. Those military people, Abacha, Gusau, Babangida used to show civility when they see an elderly person. Akinriade always calls me egbon. So, they show respect. I was released when Abacha suddenly died and Abdulsalam Abubakar, whose name “Abdulsalam” means peace, became the Head of State and released the first nine people.

Is it not confounding to you that, up to now, the two factions of Afenifere are not ready to resolve the crisis?

I did my best as an individual, but our people undermined my effort. When the things happened, I aligned with the governors in our group. The elders criticised me that I am older than those governors, why should I follow them? I said the governors’ argument was right. If you really want Nigeria to move forward as one country, we should have a political party that will cut across the whole country, so we should build the party across the country. That was the argument of the governors, but some of our elders in Afenifere did not feel that way. They felt any stream that forgets its source will dry. They also claimed that, under Baba Awolowo, Afenifere was AG and AG was Afenifere and that was where they missed it up. One thing is that electoral process was altered, right from the time of Baba Awolowo till our time. People are so reliable at that time; people voted their conscience and election was based on merit in those days, money was not the major factor. Awolowo knew the psychology of our people and people loved.

Next year, the federal government will roll out the drums for the centenary celebration.

What do you have to say on that?

Any centenary is worth celebrating, if it is a centenary of freedom from bondage. Yes, we should thank God we are alive to witness it, provided people will not use the opportunity to siphon money unnecessarily. But we should celebrate in moderation. The amount they devoted for it should be scrutinised properly. Not that we should not celebrate, but we should spend judiciously because our being together till today is worth celebrating.

What is your position on the Southwest regional integration?

Yes it is good thing. It has happened before and that was what gives the West the edge over other regions, in terms of education. But people call a dog a bad name in order to hang it. We are not breaking away from Nigeria.

Now that the National Assembly set to review the 1999 Constitution, what are your expectations?

The National Assembly is too busy with many assignments. It should not be their business. The Federal Government should set up a committee, just as Babangida set up the Constituent Assembly in 1988-89, of which I was a member. there is no way they will work thoroughly if they are saddled with the responsibility of reviewing the constitution.

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THE NATION FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2013

POLITICS

‘Ohanaeze crisis ’ll rob Igbo of Presidency’

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HE crisis rocking the panIgbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndi Igbo, could jeopardise the agitation for power shift to the Southeast in 2015.

The national President of Ohanaeze Ndi Igbo Youth Council, Mr Francis Orji, who spoke on the lingering crisis, said that it has threatened the unity of Igbo leadership.

He urged the reconciliation committe chaired by Senator Ben Obi to resolve the crisis in the interest of the race. Orji noted that the Southeast Governors’ Forum is worried by the logjam.

Orji, who spoke with reporters after the inauguration of Ohaneze

From Sunny Nwankwo, Aba

Youth Council executive, Abia chapter, urged the parent body to form alliance with other ethnic nationalities to realise the dream of an Igbo Presidency.

He said they can only form an alliance, if they put their house in order.

Orji also said the Southsouth leaders can only work for development in an atmosphere of mutual trust and confidence. He lamented that over 36,000 youths in the region are unemployed.

He added: “In the recent past, in the North, youths have been empowered. So, we are calling on the Federal Government to consider

the Southeast youths. We don’t want to take up arms as the Niger Delta youths have been doing”.

Also speaking, another youth leader, Mr. Peter Chinaemerm, urged the youths to show interest in politics.

He said: “We will not shy away from politics because government policies affect us directly or indirectly. We will support publicly any political party candidate with clear vision or political agenda that will help our state grow, regardless of the political party”.

The patron of the group, Mr. Friday Nwosu, a lawyer, urged the youth leaders to eschew the division and forge unity.

Why Ajimobi was endorsed for second term, by Whip

By Jeremiah Oke

•Adigun

T

HE Chief Whip of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Mr. Abiodun AmmedAdigun, has said that the party endorsed Governor Abiola Ajimobi for a second term because of his

impressive performance.

He commended the 33 local government chapters of the ruling Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) for reposing confidence in the governor.

Adigun said the endorsement will prevent cracks in the party, adding that it would achieve victory in the future as a united house.

The legislator assured that ACN will grow in leaps and bounds under Ajimobi’s leadership.

Adigun spoke on the giant strides of the administration after receiving the ‘Grassroots politician award’ at the Trenchard Hall of the University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Oyo State.

Urging the leaders and people to support the administration, he said

it is in the interest of the state to vote for continuity in 2015.

Adigun added:“I want to use this opportunity to commend the ACN members in the state for the recognition given to the governor as the leader of the party in the state.

They have shown foresight by endorsing him as the leader of the political family after the demise of Alhaji Lam Adesina. The endorsement of the governor is an indication that the party speaks in one voice and that the good work of the governor has fetched him the honour.

“The unity in the party and the good work of the governor will definitely propel the victory of the party in the 2015 general elections and beyond. I urged the leaders and people to continue to support the governor.”

Uduaghan is tackling insecurity, says group

A

GROUP, ‘The People’s Movement’, has said that Delta State Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan is tackling insecurity in the state, contrary to the claims by critics of the administration.

The group urged the governor to deepen democracy by fortifying the democratic institutions.

The group’s Director of Communications, Mrs. Ibifuro Tatua, said in a statement that the allegations of aiding and abetting the kidnapping of judges in the state was false.

She said: “In a country where some governors recklessly abandon their responsibilities to the people, abuse their offices through ostentatious lifestyles, amid mass poverty, Uduaghan has made a difference by redeeming his campaign promises

By Jeremiah Oke

to the electorate”.

The group warned those peddling rumours against the governor to desist from their nefarious activities.

Tatua added: “Leaders at whatever level must demonstrate a certain degree of decency and exemplary conduct. Desperate politicians; those without ideas and goodwill, are running away from the real issues and resorting to character assassination and personal abuse.

“These people, mainly elders and politicians, are not united by the common desire to move Delta State forward, but to bring down Governor Uduaghan”.

The group extolled the virtues of the governor, describing him as an

excemplary leader.

Tatua stressed: “We know that posterity will be on the governor’s side.

On assumption of office, Uduaghan promised to leave indelible and enduring legacies.This promise has translated into a lot of viable projects.

He has moved in to wipe the tears of the people.

“Apart from the renovation of primary and secondary schools, the government has awarded scholarships to undergraduate and graduate students in local and foreign universities.

“Delta State Oil Producing Area Development Commission has so far completed 790 projects. The projects completed include school buildings, water schemes, hospitals and health centres.

•From left: Nassarawa State Governor Tanko Al-makura; his Lagos State counterpart Babatunde Fashola; Central Bank Governor Sanusi Lamido Sanusi; Gombe State Governor Alhassan Dankwambo; former House Speaker, Aminu Bello Masari and Niger State Governor Dr Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu, at the presentation of a book by Mallam Nasiru el-Rufai, former Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) at the Yar’Adua Centre, Abuja ... yesterday.

OBJ’S VISIT TO ASO ROCK

Is Jonathan/Obasanjo rift over?

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s recent visit to President Goodluck Jonathan in Aso Villa, Abuja, has raised some posers. Is the rift between the two Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leaders over? Was the visit a gimmick to convey the impression of a truce before hitting harder at a perceived foe? EMMANUEL OLADESU writes on the tactics of the retired General and their effects on the targets.

I

F it boils down to contradiction, perhaps, only Olusegun Obasanjo, retired General, Balogun of Owu kingdom and Ekerin of Egbaland can resolve it. To many observers, the civil war hero, former military Head of State and President of Nigeria has become a man of contrasting personality at the twilight of life. No doubt, he is a military tactician. If it is true, as the late Yoruba leader, Senator Abraham Adesanya, once put it, that the first rule in the military is deception, Obasanjo’s style as a military politician aptly marks him out as a man of inexplicable tricks.

Since the middle of last year, Obasanjo had become the internal opposition leader in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). He has repeatedly criticised President Goodluck Jonathan for his slow motion approach to issues of national importance. For example, the former President, who is believed to be Dr. Jonathan’s benefactor, has openly chided the federal government for its poor response to the security challenge, especially the Boko Haram threat.

Obasanjo is also at the centre of the PDP crisis. He and the President are holding antagonistic views and positions on the lingering PDP civil war.

The former President, party sources said, was injured by the judicial removal of his lackey, Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola, from the position of the PDP national secretary. The party chairman, Alhaji Bamanga Tukur, who is a loyalist of President Jonathan, has not enjoyed cordial relations with the ousted scribe. Recently, Obasanjo’s men have been attacking the activities of Jonathan Administration. Former Education Minister Mrs. Oby Ezekwesiliese has accused the government of reckless spending. Another former minister, Femi Fani-Kayode said the government lacked focus. The general feeling in the party is that the former President is rooting for another presidential candidate for 2015 elections.

When Obasanjo stormed the Aso Rock Villa, the seat of power four days ago, many people were taken aback. It was a surprise visit. But what he did was more surprising. Contrary to his previous disposition, the former President, who attended the weekly church service as the Aso Rock church, prayed for the success of Jonathan Administration, which his men have accused of ineptitude and lack of direction. According to the report, he also had lunch with the President. However, many believe that the prayers offered by the ‘Ebora Owu’ may not have come from his heart. Others feel that there is limitation to the efficacy of political prayers.

When he was in the saddle as President, Obasanjo had established himself in the habit of creating the impression that he had sheathed his words, only to turn back to hit his target. When the row between him and former Senate President Chuba Okadigbo reached the climax, the former President paid him a surprise visit, conveying the impression of a ceasefire. Okadigbo’s supporters exclaimed that the war was over. During the meeting with the late Oyi of Oyi and his wife, Obasanjo cracked a lot of jokes, exchanged banters with his host and waved the olive branch.

Few days later, there was the resumption of hostilities and suddenly, Okadigbo was impeached.

The same tragedy befell the former PDP national chairman, Chief Audu Ogbeh. Fed up with the crises ravaging the ruling party, the Second Republic minister wrote Obasanjo, alert-

•Obasanjo

ing him to the consequences of the Anambra State PDP crisis. He also dissected the administration’s programmes, saying that saying that there was gap between expectation and reality. He also warned that mass unemployment was a time bomb.

Obasanjo chided him for going public, despite being part of the administration as a special adviser. Later he closed ranks with the party chairman.

When Ogbeh thought that the feud was over, police declared a curious war against him. He was harassed by the security agents. The former party chairman initially put up a feeble resistance. However, when the reality of the looming danger dawned at him, he resigned as the chairman. The former President installed Dr. Ahmadu Ali, who was a Federal Commissioner for Education when he served as the military Head of State, as the chairman.

Obasanjo had dangled the same carrot at the leaders of the Alliance for Democracy (AD), ahead of the 2003 elections. He proposed a pact between himself and the party to enable him have a political footing at home.

Former Oyo State Governor Lam Adesina and his Ogun State counterpart, Aremo Olusegun Osoba, became his campaign managers in the Southwest. They promised to deliver the votes to the PDP during the presidential election, while expecting the former President to assist the AD in maintaining its hold on the region.

The leader of the pan-Yoruba sociopolitical group, Afenifere, the late Senator Abraham Adesanya, urged caution.

At a meeting of the group in Lagos, Adesanya warned against collaborating with a military leader, saying that soldiers in politics can hardly be sincere. Reflecting on the controversial pact, Afenifere chieftain Senator Olabiyi Durojaiye, recalled that only the former Lagos State governor, Senator Bola Tinubu, took the warning seriously. Tinubu retraced his steps, but others met their waterloo at the polls.

“It was a controversial pact. I was aware of it, and since I did not try to avert it, I share in the responsibility for the wrong step. It was started by Lam, who out of patriotism, drummed support for Obasanjo as a Yoruba, so that he could have a home support in his region. But our leader, Adesanya warmed us because Obasanjo is a military man. Pa Adesanya said the first rule in the military is deception. When Tinubu heard about that, he said he would back out of the pact and that was how he survived the political earthquake of 2003”.

The national chairman of the PDP, Alhaji Bamanga Tukur, has said that Obasanjo’s visit has drawn the curtains on the rift. But those who know the former President hold a contrary view.

Was the visit another game of deception? Time will tell.

THE NATION FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2013

45

•The female truck drivers •Continued from Page 17 scheme for adoption by other states.

The Federal Government, interested in the Osun jobs initiative, has also sent a delegation to the state to understudy the scheme.

There are other partners. Firms, institutions of higher learning and trade associations have equally teamed up with the state to expand its skills base. Personnel from Fountain University are training cadets in various skills under the scheme.

Textile workers and tailoring associations are providing such training apart from the fact that OYES overalls are made in the state. This is boosting the state economy.

•Cadet footwear makers

Rauf Aregbesola has been coming up with unique solutions to the problems of Nigeria,” said Mr Semiu Okanlawon, Director, Bureau of Communications and Strategy Office of the Governor. “By the time he was developing this unique youth engagement strategy, Nigeria’s problem in terms of youth restiveness had not reached this alarming rate.

Yet, he knew that if there is no conscious effort at taking idle hands off the streets, we might just be sitting on a very explosive case. Just imag-

ine each state of the federation engaging 20,000 on this kind of community works. That translates into 20,000 in 36 places apart from Abuja.

That alone is enough to put away all these problems of Boko Haram, kidnapping and other criminal activities that are just becoming daily affairs in our national life.”

Aregbesola said: “OYES is not about youth employment alone. It is also about re-inflating the state economy. Our integration policy states that all uniforms, kits and equipments used by OYES should be obtained from markets spread round all local government areas in the state. This has created a value-chain, improved the economy, empowered families and created wealth.”

•Obi speaks at the handover of the vehicles, flanked by Inspector-General Muhammed Abubakar (right) and Deputy-Governor Emeka Sibeudu possible in an atmosphere of inseentire police that Anambra State will Lodge, Amawbia Obi said this curity. continue to work with them for the brings to over 350 which he has so Earlier, the Inspector-General of security of the state and the country far presented to security organisaPolice who said he was in the state at large. We enjoin all Nigerians to tions in the state. to appraise security situation, redo same.”

Obi said that other security agenceived the keys to the vehicles from Explaining the reason for the gescies would receive theirs. He assured Governor Obi. He thanked him for ture, Obi said it was borne out of his the police of continued support from his commitment to security, saying belief that the state needed security Anambra State. that each time the governor visited to sustain her achievements and He said: “May I re-assure the Inhim in Abuja, it must be on how to record, which he said will not be spector-General of Police and the

improve the security of his people.

He said he was also happy coming to Anambra State because the state has remained an example of how other states ought to support security agencies for the good of the country.

He also commended Obi for his contributions to the re-positioning of the police through his membership of the Police Funding Committee.

He said that under governor Obi, the state had moved from her ugly past and had become more peaceful, secured, stable, progressive and safe.

While commending Obi and the Anambra Police Command for their efforts at securing the lives and property of the people, the IGP said that the police have posted more 500 of her personnel to Anambra State. He also hinted the possibility of establishing more area commands in the state for efficient and effective policing.

He also reiterated his commitment to a safer Anambra State. He said that going by the nature and extent of support the police in Anambra were enjoying from the governor, there was no reason for them to fail.

Later, Governor Obi took the Inspector-General of Police to Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing Company, Nnewi, where he inspected the plant, including the 300 security patrol vehicles ordered and paid for

by Anambra State government to be distributed to the communities in the state.

Speaking to the press, the Inspector-General, who said he was impressed by what he saw, said that he would look at the vehicles manufactured at the industry in terms of suitability for security purposes for them to patronise it.

Osun relishes jobs scheme But the tailors themselves are excited for personal reasons. Mr Lateef Adebisi said: “OYES has improved our economy. No government in the state has provided jobs the way Aregbesola’s has. Many tailors have built houses, bought cars and solved many financial problems.”

Mr Femi Ifaturoti, chair of the OYES Implementation Group, said: “We have proved that it is possible to employ 20,000 people.”

Ifaturoti said the cadets were orientated to believe in themselves and

carry on the “Omoluabi” spirit, adding that some of them were sent to various parts of the world to be trained. Some went to Cuba, some to Germany, some others to India.

The result is an enriched and strengthened work force in the state.

Another set of 20,000 cadets will replace the ones that graduated.

Some 18,000 of those who passed out of the scheme are said to have been given permanent jobs in the state.

“The OYES is just one of those instances that confirms how visionary

Obi gives police armoured cars •Continued from Page 17 “Those who would have been idle and a threat to society have been meaningfully engaged in one form of work or the other. We commend the governor not just for this sense of security but also for restoring people’s confidence in government.

“It is clear to us that businesses are growing in the state. More companies are opening shop and employing people. The number of hotels in Awka alone has tripled in the past two years. This would not have been possible in a state of insecurity.”

They therefore called for increased support for the administration, noting that if the people contribute their quota, governor Obi would be able to do more for the people.

The Inspector-General of Police Muhammed Abubakar received over 50 armoured vehicles from the Anambra State government for improved security in the state.

This, Governor Obi said, was immediate fulfilment of his promise to make security of lives and property the priority of his government in 2013 as contained in his New Year broadcast.

According to Obi, three of the vehicles are armoured security vehicles while 50 of the vehicles are patrol vans.

Presenting the security vehicles to the IGP Abubakar at the Governor’s

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THE NATION FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2013

IN THE HIGH COURT OF LAGOS STATE OF NIGERIA PROBATE REGISTRY, IKEJA DIVISION WHEREAS the person whose names are set-out in the first Column under died intestate on the date and place stated in the said Column. AND WHEREAS the person or persons whose names and addresses and relationship (if any) to the deceased are set out in the second Column here have applied to the High Court of Lagos State for a Grant of Letter of Administration of the Real and Personal Properties of the deceased. NOTICE IS HEREBY given that Letters of Administration will be granted to such persons unless a NOTICE TO PROHIBIT THE GRANT is filed in the registry within (14) days from the date hereof.

S/N

NAMES OF THE DECEASED PERSON:

S/N

1. Mrs Felicia Odu (Otherwise known as Odu Felicia) late of Block 378, Flat 4, Jakande Estate, Amuwo Odofin, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 28th day of February, 2011 at Dejumo Hospital, Lagos.

2. Emmanuel Ayodele (Otherwise known as Emmaco Ayo Enterprises) late of 42, Sanya Street, Aguda Surulere, Lagos , deceased who died intestate on the 12th day of August, 2012 at Lagos.

3. Mr Joel Olusegun Oke (Otherwise known as Omo Olooja Ojeere) late of 34, Railway Line, Odi Olowo, Mushin, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 3rd day of April, 1996 at Lagos.

4. Mrs Nasiru Oluwakemi Ajike late of 7, Alabi Street, Ijegun Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 8th day of February, 2011 at Lagos.

5. Suarau Akanbi Kabiru (otherwise known as Mr Suarau Kabiru ) late of No. 1, Onikosi Street, Iba Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 18th day of March, 2012 at Lagos.

6. Mrs Roseline Nchedo Nwachukwu (otherwise known as Nwachukwu Roseline) late of No. 20, Owoduni Street, Ikosi Ketu, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 27th day of February, 2012 at Garki Hospital Abuja.

7. Ogunpola Olugbenga Oludare (otherwise known as Ogunpola Olugbenga) late of BA 38 Shagari Estate, Ipaja, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 15th day of June, 2007 at Lagos.

8. Adegbosin Michael Olutomi (Otherwise known as Olutomi and Mr Adegbosin Michael) late of 16 Ijero Street, Ikate, Surulere, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 20th day of November, 2012 at Lagos.

9. Madam Beatrice Ibironke Keripe late of Grace Court KM5, Isheri Lasu Road, Igando Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 25th day of February, 2012 at The Vine Medical Centre Ipaja.

10. Ojeniyi Omolara Clara (Otherwise known as Ojeniyi O. Clara, Omolara Clara Ojeniyi, Ojeniyi Omolara and Ojeniyi O.C.) late of Block N30, Flat 2, Jakande estate Oke Afa Isolo, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 11th day of August, 2012 at Lagos.

11. Sanyaolu Ezekiel Olumuyiwa (Otherwise known as Sanyaolu Ezekiel) late of 39, Bashorun Street, Agege, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 23rd day of June, 2010 at Lagos.

12. Ikujenya Kamorudeen Olayiwola (otherwise known as Ikujenya Kamorudeen O. ) late of 3rd Avenue, 311 Road, E Close, Block 2 Flat 3, Festac Town, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 13th day of June, 2011 at Lagos.

13. Mr David Ogala late of 96, Oshodi Road, Oshodi, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 19th day of June, 2010.

14. Awotoye Olayemi J. late of 2, Ijaye Street, Mushin, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 15th day of September, 2011 at Lagos.

15. Badaru Omolara (Otherwise known as Badaru Sidikat Omolara, Badru Sidikat Omolara and Omolara Badaru) late of 48, Apapa Road, Ebute Metta, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 27th day of May, 2008 at Gbagada General Hospital, Lagos.

16. Omolaiye Oluwafemi (otherwise known as Omolaye Oluwafemi ) late of 29, Abeokuta Close, Idimu Ikotun, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 9th day of April, 2012 at Lagos.

17. Mr Surajudeen Abiodun Odunuga late of 14, Abraham Akinola Street, Onipetesi deceased who died intestate on the 13th day of March, 2010 at Lagos.

18. Mr Peter Oghenovo Etinagbedia (otherwise known as Mr peter Oghemovo Etinagbebia ) late of No. 2, Church Street, Ojodu Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 18th day of May, 2011 at New Hope Indian Specialist Hospital.

19. Asuquo Offion Boniface (otherwise known as Asuquo Boniface ) late Block 168, PT 84, Flat 5, Iba Estate, Ojo, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 5th day of May, 2008 at Lagos.

20. Arewa Cornelius Olawale late of 2nd Avenue , 21 Road, L Close Block 2 Festac Town, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 21st day of October, 2011 at Lagos.

21. Idris Augustine Amolo late of 12, Adeleke Mustapha Street, Abule Owu Egbeda, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 6th day of June, 2012 at Ibusa, Delta State of Nigeria.

22. Odunuga Faosat Adeola (otherwise known as Alh Faosat Adeola Odunuga) late of 16 Layi Otegbade Street, Kadupe Bus Stop Palmgrove Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 5th day of June, 2010 at Lagos.

23. Aghaukwu Regina (Mrs) late of 1, Fatai Close, Ilufe Ojo Lagos, deceased who die dintestate on the 29th day of May, 2012 at Nigerian Navy Hospital, Ojo. 24. Olasope Mildred Mosunmola (otherwise known as Mrs Olasope Mosunmola) late of 24, George Street, Somolu Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 14th day of February, 2011 at Somolu.

25. Mr Oyewole Oyediran late of 33, Samuel Ekundayo Road, Badagry, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 19th day of March, 2011 at Badagry, Lagos State.

26. Mr Laja Joseph Oduyela late of 5, Odubanjo Street, Off Apata , Somolu, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 10th day of February, 2012 at Lagos.

27. Mr Marcus Okusaga (Otherwise known as Mr Marcus Omosanya Okusaga) late of No. 13, Okusaga Street, Ilupeju, Mushin, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 2nd day of March, 1977 at Lagos University Teaching Hospital, Idi-Araba.

28. Festus Joy (otherwise known as Stephen Ukoka Joy) late of 47, Oluwa Street, Olodi Apapa Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 20th day of October, 2012 at Lagos.

29. Mr Shittu Ahmed late of No. 20, Tiniagbale Street Ahmadiya, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 7th day of October, 2012 at Orile Agege, Lagos.

30. Mrs Folashade Osigbosin late of Block 322, Flat Jakande Estate, Oke Afa, Isolo, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 30th day of May, 2008.

31. Prince David Aderoju Osunbade (otherwise known as Osunbade Aderoju David) late of No. 24, Aiyetoro Street, Aguda Surulere, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 3rd day of June, 2012 at Ikeja.

32. Mr Idowu Oloruntoba Isaac (otherwise known as Idowu Isaac Toba and Mr Isaih Olohuntoba I.) late of Oloruntoba Close Zone C, By Church Gate Bus stop, Olorunda LCDA, Badagry, Lagos deceased who died intstate on the 24th day of July, 2011 at Badagry, Lagos.

33. Ogungbaiye Sanni Mustapha (otherwise known as Ogungbaiye Mustapha Sanni) late of 7, George Street, Somolu, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 11th day of November, 2003 at Lagos.

34. Abiodun Ambali Lawal late of 10, Adeleye Street, Bariga Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 31st day of September, 2009 at Lagos.

35. Nwankpa O. Ehighiator (otherwise known as Nwankpa D. Ejighiator) late of No. 50, Onilewura Street, Ikotun, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 20th day of October, 2012 at Abuja.

36. Madam Lapite Dorcas Arinola (otherwise known as Madam Dorcas Arinola Lapite Akapo) late of 40, Owoduni Street, Iwaya, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 18th day of March, 1977 at Lagos.

37. Mrs Adedoyin Kuburat Oluwo (otherwise known as Kuburat Oluwo) late of 12, Aje Street, Pleasure Oke Odo Alimosho Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 31st day of July, 1995 at Lagos.

38. Mr Ezekiel Nwanorue late of 1B, Oyewunmi Ojo street, Ladipo Shogunle, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 11th day of April, 2011 at Lagos.

39. Abaekere Folashade (otherwise known as Folashade Abaekere) late of 24, Akinremi Street, Ayobo Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 24th day of September, 2010 at Lagos.

40. Ekhalufoh Francis (otherwise known a Ekhalufoh Francis Odianonsen) late of 37, Akano Street, Oke Odo, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 28th day of September , 2012 at Lagos.

41. Ruth Oborede Ukpe (Otherwise known as Ruth Ukpe) late of 512 Road A Close Block 5 Flat 4, Festac Town, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 23rd day of October, 2007 at Luth.

42. Gilbert Edumonu (otherwise known as Edumonu Gilbert) late of 29, Niyi Ogunleye Crescent, Ogba Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 5th day of August, 2011.

43. Mr Aiguh Albert late of House 38A, Zone 3, Unity Estate Odan Ishashi, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 26th day of October, 2012 at Lagos.

44. Musa Sabike Ishola late of 33, Olowokere Street, Orile Agege, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 18th day of February, 2006 at Lagos.

45. Benedict Ademu (otherwise known as Ademu Benedict ) late of 30, Boundary Road, Shasha Lagos,deceased who died intestate on the 4th day of November, 2009 at Lagos.

46. Major Onalaja Simeon Olubunmi (otherwise known as Onalaja Simon Olubunmi and Major Simeon O. Onalaja) late of Close 65, House 7, Satelite Town, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 15th day of October, 2010 at Lagos.

47. Lawrence Mojaka (otherwise known as Mojaka Lawrence and Edrolali ) late of Ikare Sea Beachi Amuwo Odofin Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 7th day of May, 2011 at Dela Hospital.

48. Hunge Gbeton late of Administrative Staff College of Nigeria PMB 1004 Topo Badagry deceased who died intestate on the 19th day of December, 2011 49. Mr Uka Igwe Uka (otherwise known as Mr Uka U.I. late of Plot 4, Elede Farm Street, Akute Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 12th day of June, 2012 at Lagos.

50. Mr Ekeleme Benson (otherwise known as Mr Benson Ekeleme ) late of Plot 734, Babatunde Atere Street, Omole Phase II, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 7th day of March, 2012 at Lagos.

51. Afolabi Taliat late of 7, Olorunlogbon Street, Dopemu Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 15th day of August, 2011 at Lagos.

52. Basiru Luqman Olalekan (otherwise known as Bashiru Lukman) late of 6, Lawal Babalola Street, Papa Ajao, Mushin, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 2nd day of February, 2012 at Luth.

53. Ameh John AGA late of 83, Onode Ibeshe Road, Ikorodu, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 12th day of December, 2011 at Olabisi Onabanjo Teaching Hospital Sagamu.

54. Onemolease Aimanehi Celina (otherwise known as Miss Aimanehi Celina Omenolease) late of 79, Dosumu Street, Itire, Surulere, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 3rd day of June, 2012 at Lagos.

55. James Anthony Edet (otherwise known as James Anthony E.) late of 18, Awoseyin street, Somolu, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 16th day of September, 2003 at Lagos.

56. Mrs Esther Adeleye (otherwise known as Adeleye Esther) late of 1, Oyero Close Adekunle Off Adeniyi Jone Ikeja, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 8th day of February, 2011 at UCH, Ibadan.

57. John Jimmy Olowookere (Otherwise known as John Olowookere J.) late of 22, Lekan Oyekunle Street, Meiran Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 12th day of April, 2012 at Lagos.

58. Buraimoh Olufisoye (otherwise known as Buraimoh Ola) late of Block C Room 14, Highway Patrol Barracks Ikeja Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 9th day of June, 2012 at Ile Ife, Osun State.

59. Idowu Emmanuel Goriola (otherwise known as Idowu Goriola) late of 6, Love Close Agbado, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 4th day of October, 2008 at Lagos.

60. Mr Moses Oke late of No. 31, Moricas street, Agege, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 9th day of August, 2011 at Ogbomosho.

61. Mr Samuel Awobusuyi late of 23 Road O. Close Block 2, Flat 9, Festac Town, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 21st day of September, 2006 at Lagos.

62. Adeoye Martins Balogun (otherwise known as Balogun Adeoye, Adeoye Martins and Balogun Martins Adeoye ) late of 6, Odeyemi street, Ile Epo, Lagos,deceased who died intestate on the 1st day of October, 2012 at Lagos.

63. Magnus Beekwagh late of Block 2 Flat 15, Otto Police Barracks Oyingbo Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 9th day of Septemebr, 2012 at Lagos.

64. Mr Abudu Musebiu late of 91, Igi Olugbin Street, Bariga, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 25th day of April, 2009 at General Hospital Gbagada, Lagos.

65. Akpagha Umoren Alexander late of 51, Ibukun Olu Street, Akoka, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 21st day of September, 2011 at Gbagada General Hospital.

66. Akunne Patrick Igwe (otherwise known as Mr Patrick Akunne and Supol Patrick Akunne ) late of 26, Onugbu Uzoamaka Street, Igando, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 13th day of August, 2012 at Lagos.

67. Garba Amos late of Block B Room 26 Keffi Road, Obalende Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 12th day of November, 2000 at Lagos.

68. Mr Nnamdi Donatus Ugwejeh (otherwise known as Mr Nnamdi D. Ugwejeh) late of 364, Old Ojo Road, Alakija Bus stop, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 23rd day of April, 2012 at Anambra State.

69. Ms Mercy Okotie Eboh late of 32, Akinsulire Street, Aguda Surulere, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 28th day of April ,2009 at Lagos.

70. Madam Sabinah Olusola Shogbesan (otherwise known as Sogbesan Shola) late of 36, Agbado Road, Iju Ishaga, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 17th day of December, 2001 at Kaduna 71. Mrs Chiagozie Nwaham (otherwise known as Mrs Nwaham Chiagozie ) late of No. 1, Bariyu Street, Isolo, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 1st day of July, 2011 at Luth, Lagos.

72. Adebajo Olufemi Solomon late of 32, Femi Adebajo street, Ayobo Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 7th day of February, 2012 at Lagos.

73. Abimbola Adetola Onatoye late of 16, Bola Akerele Street, Ijegun Ikotun Egbe, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 16th day of March, 2005 at Lagos.

74. Mr Yusuf Jibo late of 14, Musa Yaradua Street, Victoria Island Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 2nd day of December, 2010 at Lagos.

75. Mr Pius Azuka Oshaegbue (Otherwise known as Oshaegbu Pius Azuka and Pius A. Oshaegbue) late of 17, Kayode Arikawe Street, Ketu, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 8th day of October, 2009 at Ishiagu General Hospital Delta State.

76. Vivian Effiong Atangakak late of 8B Sadiku Street, Ogundele Mafoluku Oshodi, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 3rd day of June, 2012 at Lagos.

77. Mr Turawa Kilyofas (otherwise known as Sikar and Kilyofas Turawa Lt CDR (RTD) late of 7, Kehinde Eta Oko Street , Satelite Town , Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 16th day of December, 2006 at Lagos.

78. Odedeyi Kayode late of 14, Kajola Avenue, Moshalasi Agbado, deceased who died intestate on the 15th day of December, 2011 at Lagos.

NAMES OF APPLICANT APPLYING FOR THE GRANT

1. Mr Patrick Alio Odu and Evelyn Odu both of Block 378, Flat 4, Jakande Estate, Amuwo Odofin Lagos, widower and the only child respectively of the said deceased.

2. Mrs Mojisola Emmanuel, Oluwaseun Emmanuel, Oluwagbemiga Emmanuel all of 42, Sanya Street, Aguda Surulere, Lagos, widow and two of the children respectively of the said deceased.

3. Mr Adeolu Olufemi-Oke, Mr Taiwo Oladeinde-Oke , Mr Taiwo Ezekiel-Oke all of 34, Railway Line, Odi Olowo Mushin, Lagos, four of the children of the said deceased.

4. Mrs Yetunde Bakare of 8, Oyewole Street, Ikotun and Mrs Damilola Adeyemi of 7, Mudashiru Street, Igando, the only child and sister respectively of the said deceased.

5. Hon. Toyin Suarau, Mr Shefiu O. Suarau and Mr Azeez O. Suarau all of No. 1, Onikosi Street, Iba, Lagos, three of the children of the said deceased.

6. Okwuchukwu Nwachukwu and Chisom Vivian Nwachukwu both of 20, Owoduni Street, Ikosi Ketu, Lagos widower and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

7. Ogunpola Kehinde Ifeoluwa (Mrs) of BA38 H Street, Shagari estate, Ipaja, Lagos and Mr Joseph Oludare Kehinde of 3 PH Street, Shagari Estate, Ipaja, Lagos, widow and cousin respectively of the said deceased.

8. Adegbosin Yetunde Ramot and Adegbosin Omotayo Esther both for 16, Ijero street, Ikate Surulere, Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

9. Matthew Olu Keripe, Mrs Patricia Olubukola Osho and Olukayode Olu Keripe all of Grace Court Km5, Isheri Lasu Road, Igando, Lagos, widower and two of the children respectively of the said deceased.

10. Mr Ojeniyi Olapade Olufemi and Ojeniyi Olajide Babatomiwa both of Block N30, Flat 2, L.C.H.E Isolo, widower and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

11. Mrs Olubunmi Adekemi Sanyaolu and Sanyaolu Femi Mathew both of 39, Bashorun Street, Dopemu Agege, Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

12. Mrs Sifau O. Iginla and Oluremi W. Ikujenya both of 3rd Avenue, 311 Road E Close, Block 2, Flat 3, Festac Town, two of the children of the said deceased.

13. Ogala Veronica and Ogala Blessed both of 2, Jimoh Agunbiade Street, Ijesha, Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

14. Mrs Funke Iyabo Awotoye and Paul Oluwasegun Awotoye both of 2, Ijaye Street, Mushin, Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

15. Mrs Funmilayo Akiwowo of D13, Flat 4, FAAN Quarters, Ikeja , Miss Taiye Shosina and Miss Idowu Shosina both of 13, Sunmola street, Maryland, Lagos, three of the children of the said deceased.

16. Oluwayemisi Omolaiye and Omolabake Muritala both of 29, Abeokuta Close, Idimu, Ikotun, Lagos, widow and sister respectively of the said deceased.

17. Mr Adekunle L.Odunuga, and Mrs Serifat Titilayo Adefidipe both of 14, Abraham Akinola Street, Onipetesi Ikeja, Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased.

18. Mrs Ejiroghene A. Etinagbedia and Mr Victor Etinagbedia both of 2, Church Street, Ojodu, Lagos, widow and brother respectively of the said deceased.

19. Cyril Asuquo and Elizabeth Abiodun Asuquo both of Block 168, PT 84, Flat 5, Iba Estate, Ojo, Lagos, one of the children and mother respectively of the said deceased.

20. Mr Owateli Sunday and Arewa Anemah Friday both of 2nd Avenue, 21 Road , L Close Block 2 Flat 4, Festac Town, Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased.

21. Emmanuel Amolo and Peter R. Amolo both of 12, Adeleke Mustapha Street, Abule Owu Egbeda, Lagos, one of the children and brother respectively of the said deceased.

22. Odunuga Lateefat Oladotun and Odunuga Eniola both of 16, Layi Otegbade Street, Kadupe Bus stop Palmgrove Lagos, two children of the said deceased.

23. Aghaukwu Benjamin and Aghaukwu Ebuka both of 1, Fatai Close, Ilufe, Ojo Lagos, widower and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

24. Mr Michael Babatunde Olasope of 24, George Street, Somolu, Lagos Mrs Abosede Atoyebi of 6, Araromi Street, Old Ife Road Ade Ojo Estate, two of the children of the said deceased.

25. Mr Oyedeji Oyediran of 33, Samuel Ekundayo Road, Badagry, Lagos, Mrs Oyetola Etomi (Nee Oyediran) of 18, Iyana Iba Road, Ojo, Lagos, Mrs Taiwo Oladele (Nee Oyediran) of 6, fasanya Street, Fadeyi Lagos, and Mrs Oyekunbi Akinsanya (Nee Oyediran) of Block 6, Flat B, Jakande Estate, Ebute Metta, Lagos, four of the children of the said deceased.

26. Olusola Oduyela and Yemi Oduyela both of 12, Adebiyi street, Alagomeji Yaba, Lagos, widow and brother respectively of the said deceased.

27. Elder Timothy Odutola Omosanya, Mrs Bunmi David and Mrs Hannah Olusola Moria Akande all of 13, Okusaga Street, Ilupeju, Mushin, Lagos, three children of the said deceased.

28. Happiness Obasi and Festus Princewill Okone both of 47 Oluwa Street, Sister and brother respectively of the said deceased.

29. Mrs Zainab Shittu of 20, Tiniagbale Street, Ahmadiya Lagos, and Alhaji Rasheed L.A. of 1, Madinat Close Araromi Ibeju Lekki, Lagos widow and brother respectively of the said deceased.

30. Mrs Olawunmi Sadare of 27A, H.F.P Way Dolphin Estate, Ikoyi, Mrs Abosede Abdul Raheem of 14, Imobi Street, Idimu Lagos and Mr Ololade Tinubu of 46, Remi Fani Kayode Avenue G.R.A. Ikeja , Lagos, two sisters and nephew respectively of the said deceased.

31. Princess Temitope Gbemisola Osunbade, Prince Adedamola Abayomi Osunbade and Prince Oluwaseun Emmanuel Osunbade all of No. 24, Aiyetoro street, Aguda, Surulere, Lagos, widow and two brothers respectively of the said deceased.

32. Mrs Mary Oloruntoba and Mr Oluwasegun Oloruntoba both of Oloruntoba Close, Zone C, Church Gate Bus Stop Olorunda Badagry widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

33. Chief Rafiu Ogunbaiye, Tajudeen Ogunbaiye and Akeem Ogungbaiye all of 7, George Street, Somolu, Lagos, three of the children of the said deceased.

34. Ismail Olalekan Lawal, Rasheed Lawal, Taiwo Lawal and Senota Lawal all of 10, Adeleye Street, Bariga, Lagos, four of the children of the said deceased.

35. Dr Joseph Uzoigwe and Egwere Okwuchukwu Lawrence both of 50, Onilewura Street, Ikotun, Lagos, two brothers of the said deceased.

36. Mrs Olufowora Bola Kokumo Sotomi-Kuti , Mrs Teleola Adebayo and Mrs Bolajoko Oladunjoye all of 40, Owoduni Street, Iwaya , Lagos two grandchildren and cousin respectively of the said deceased.

37. Mr Kehinde Oluwo and Mr Oyeyemi Oluwo both of 12, Aje Street, Pleasure Oke Odo Alimosho, Lagos, widower and the only child respectively of the said deceased.

38. Mrs Goodluck Nwanorue and Mr Alex Chukwuma Nwanorue both of 1B, Oyewunmi Ojo street, Ladipo, Shogunle, Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

39. Messrs Joseph Abaekere and Lekan Olawale both of 24, Akinremi Street, Ayobo Lagos, widower and brother respectively of the said deceased.

40. Mrs Theresa Isibakhomen Ekhalufoh and Dr Frank Eronmonsele Ekhalufoh both of 37, Akano Street, Oke Odo Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

41. Faith Ejiroghene Ufuoma Okoka (Nee Ukpe) and Philip Ukpe both of 512 Road A Close Block 5 Flat 4, festac Town, Lagos, sister and brother respectively of the said deceased.

42. Chukwuemeka Edumonu and Chinedu Edumonu both of 29, Niyi Ogunleye Cresecent Ojota, Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased.

43. Mrs Janet Aiguh and Aiguh Gabriel both of House 38A, Zone 3, Unity Estate, Isashi Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

44. Musa Kazeem, Abayomi , Musa Nojeem Adeniyi and Musa Bashir Oluwafemi all of 33 Olowokere Street, Orile Agege, Lagos three of the children of the said deceased.

45. Mrs Janet Ademu and John Oche both of No. 1 Abeokuta Street, Shasha, Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

46. Mrs Idowu Osunseimi, Mr Seyi Olumide Onalaja, Mr Seun Onalaja and Mrs Temitope Okusanya all of Close 65, HOusd 7, Satelite Town, Lagos, four of the children of the said deceased.

47. Charity Mojaka of Ikare Beach and Emmanuel Mojaka of No. 20, Alex Uzowuru Ketu Lagos, widow and brother respectively of the said deceased.

48. Mrs Titilayo Agnes Hunge and Miss Hunge Oluwaseun both of 4, Hunyekoh Street, Idale Badagry, Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

49. Mrs Roselyn. Agwu Uka and Mr Kelechi Richard Uka both of Plot 4, Elede Farm Street, Akute, Lagos, widow and the only child respectively of the said deceased.

50. Olekamma Ebere Ekeleme of 734, Babatunde Atere Street, Omole Phase II, Lagos and Innocent Chimaobi Ekeleme of No. 9, Imam Liali Street, Ogudu, Lagos, widow and brother respectively of the said deceased.

51. Afolabi Aliu of No. 7, Olorunlogbon Street, Dopemu, Afolabi Ahmed of 7, Amule Road, Ayobo Ipaja and Afolabi Rotimi of 44 Fakaya Street, Akowonjo, Lagos, three children of the said deceased.

52. Luqman Yaseerah Adebukola of 6, Lawal Babalola street. Papa Ajao Mushin and Bashir Nasirudeen of SW8/0990 College Crescent, Ibadan, widow and brother respectively of the said deceased.

53. Matthew John and Mary John both of No. 83, Owode Ibeshe Road, Ikorodu, Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased.

54. Dr Rebecca Onemolease Ezebor and Miss Rosemary Onemolease both of 79, Dosumu Street, Itire, Surulere, Lagos, two sisters of the said deceased.

55. Margret Edet James and Ime Anthony Edet both of 18, Awoseyin Street, Shomolu, Lagos, widow and the only child respectively of the said deceased.

56. Babatunde Adeleye and Adeniyi Adeleye both of 1, Oyero Close, Adekunle Ikeja two of the children of the said deceased.

57. Mrs Olowookere Kikelomo Hellen and Olowookere Temitope both of 22, Lekan Oyekunle Street, Meiran, Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

58. Mrs Buraimoh Felicia and Buraimoh Sikiru both of Highway Patrol Barracks Block C, Room 4 Ikeja, Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

59. Idowu Kuburat Omotoke, Idowu Emmanuel Babatunde and Idowu Samuel Oluwasegun all of 16A, Ikorodu Road, Maryland, Lagos, widow and two of the children respectively of the said deceased.

60. Mrs Kehinde Oke and Mr Oke Oluwaseun both of No. 31, Morica Street, Agege, Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

61. Mrs Betty Awobusuyi of 23 Road, O Close Block 2 Flat 9, Festac Town, Lagos, Mr Olufemi Awobusuyi of 36, Raji Crescent, Baruwa Ipaja, Lagos, and Dr Jacob Awobusuyi of 40, Deinde Close, Oshodi, Lagos, widow and two of the children respectively of the said deceased.

62. Balogun Adebukunola and Balogun Beulah Oluyori both of 6, Odeyemi Street, Ile Epo, two of the children of the said deceased.

63. Orvaa Beekwagh and Stephen Beekwagh both of Block 2 Flat 15, Otto Police Barracks Oyingbo, Lagos, mother and brother respectively of the said deceased.

64. Mr Waliu Abudu and Ahmed Abudu both of 32, Surulere Street, Dopemu, Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased.

65. Akpagha Mercy and Akpagha Godwin both of 51, Ibukunolu Street, Akoka Lagos, two children of the said deceased.

66. Maryann Akunne and Isife Anthonasius both of 26, Onugbu Uzoamaka Street, Igando, Lagos, widow and brother respectively of the said deceased.

67. Mrs Pheobe Amos of Block B Room 26, Keffi Road Obalende Lagos , and Mr Garba Bitrus of Block 905 Room 6 Alakuko Agbado, Lagos, widow and brother respectively of the said deceased.

68. Chief Cyprian C. Ugwejeh and Mr Vincent Uba Ugwejeh both of 364 Old Ojo Road Alakija Bus stop Lagos, two brothers of the said deceased.

69. Ibrahim Adabara Atta and Aisha Utseoritselaju Atta both of 32, Akinsulire Street, Aguda, Surulere, Lagos, two children of the said deceased.

70. Mrs Deborah Olufunmilayo Kusimo, Pastor Michael Olusegun Shogbesan, both of 34, Agbado Road, Iju Ishaga Lagos State, Mr Gbenga Emmanuel Shogbesan and Mr Josiah Kehinde Shogbesan both of 36, Agbado Road, Iju Ishaga, Lagos State four of the children of the said deceased.

71. Mr Sunday Nwaham of No. 1, Bariyu Street, Isolo and Ugochukwu Amadiobi of No. 3, Ejiofor Close, Staff Quarters Ajao Estate, Lagos, widower and brother respectively of the said deceased.

72. Mrs Mosunmola Adebimpe Adebajo and Miss Esther Omolola Adebajo both of 32, Femi Adebajo Street, Ayobo Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased 73. Mrs Kehinde Onatoye and Mrs Olubukonla Onasanya both of 16, Akerele Street, Ijegun , Lagos , mother and sister respectively of the said deceased.

74. Hajia Hauwa Yusuf Jibo, Alhaji Anwal Yusuf Jibo and Miss Nafaisa Yusuf Jibo all of 14, Musa Yaradna Street, Victoria Island Lagos, widow and two of the children respectively of the said deceased.

75. Ignatius Chidi Oshaegbue and Charles Nweke Oshaegbue both of 17, Kayode Arikawe Street, Ketu, Lagos, two brothers of the said deceased.

76. Mrs Anna Effiong Atangakak and Kingsley Atangakak both of 8B Sadiku Street, Ogundele Mafoluku, Oshodi, Lagos, mother and brother respectively of the said deceased.

77. Mrs Grace J. Kilyofas and Mr Sikar Kaltho Kilyofas both of 7, Kehinde Eta Oko street, Satelite Town, Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

78. Odedeyi Jadesola and Odedeyi Oluwaseyi both of 14, Kajola Avenue, Agbado, sister and brother respectively of the said decased.

G.A SAFARI (MR.) PROBATE REGISTRAR

48

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2013

Mrs Obi said that the club would give financial assistance to indigent widows within the club community as well as training and empowering select young ladies in skill acquisition

Rotary maps out plans for widows, patients

T

HE newly installed third president of Rotary International Club of Awka, Ifeoma Obi, has marshalled her plans for the needy.

Among those she intends to help are indigent widows and cancer patients. There are others.

Mrs Obi is the Station Manager of UNIZIK 94.1fm, which has taken over the air waves in the Southeast.

The Rotary Club International in Anambra State has engaged in many charity work and youth empowerment programmes.

In her address after the installation which took place at the Whyte View Hotels in Awka by the immediate past President, Andy Okeke, the new president promised to do more.

She commended those who contributed to the success of the event and enumerated her set out projects for 2012/2013 Rotary year.

These according to Mrs. Obi included construction of mobile toilets in UNIZIK, organising seminars on diabetes, prostate cancer and sickle cell ailments as well as providing drugs for the affected persons.

Furthermore, she listed other projects such as organising essay competitions in Igbo language among secondary schools in the state.

B

ETTER times await rural dwellers and operators of macro-, small- and medium-scale businesses at the grassroots in Ogun State as the administration of Governor Ibikunle Amosun has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Bank of Indus-

From Nwanosike Onu, Awka

Above all, Mrs Obi said that the club would give financial assistance to indigent widows within the club community as well as training and empowering select young ladies in skill acquisition.

During the installation, the immediate past president, Rtn Andy Okeke charged the new president to conduct herself in strict conformity with the constitution and bye-laws of Rotary club of UNIZIK and Rotary International.

Besides the installation of new president, the club equally, decorated four Paul Harris Fellows and three persons for community service award.

The assistant District Governor, zone 4 of Rotary, Helen Obi, reminded the new president of the onerous task ahead of her, adding that she should see her new position as a big challenge.

The woman said that the new president had to show a lot of commitment, dedication, selfless service and patriotism in her new office.

Those who were decorated as Paul Harris Fellows included Prof Kate Omenugha, former Head of Department of Mass Communication and Director of the Radio FM of UNIZIK. Others were Mr Ken Ifeatu Obi,

•Mrs Obi and her predecessor, Andy Okeke

Engr Goddy Osele and the vice President of the club, Rtn Osy Okafor.

Obi, therefore, extolled them for contributing immensely to Rotary International which fetched them the Paul Harris Fellows, describing their gesture as the highest level of humanitarian service.

The other three community serv-

ice awardees were former Head of English Department Unizik, Prof Joy Eyisi, transition Committee Chairman, Oyi Local government Chief Uchenna Okafor (aka wipper).

However, the president of Rotary club of Awka main, Emeka Nzekwe charged them to see the award as a call for greater service

to humanity.

Prof Omenugha, who responded on behalf of the Paul Harris Fellows, described Rotary as a charitable organization which has a vision of humanitarian service to the less privileged.

She therefore, pledged to donate more for the work of humanity in the society.

Ogun signs MoU on rural electrification try (BoI) on “Access to Renewable Energy” project.

The “Access to Renewable Energy” project is meant to provide electricity supply to rural dwellers using alternative means of so-

lar power.

Speaking while signing on behalf of the state government, Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Basorun Muyiwa Oladipo, de-

•From left: President of Enugu Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture, Dr. Theo Okonkwo; Director-General, Sir Emeka Okereke; Vice-President, Trade Fair, Emeka Ikpeze and Elder Ifureuwem Udofia at a press briefing on the upcoming 24th Enugu International Trade Fair PHOTO: OBI CLETUS

scribed the project as a welcome development which is capable of boosting socio-economic activities at the grassroots, as it would be a ready source of energy which hitherto had been almost non-existing.

He enjoined prospective beneficiaries to protect the project from being vandalised, so that it would serve them for the long time possible, and ultimately, enhance their standard of living.

“This project that involves the UNDP and BoI, deserves sound coordination and strict supervision in order to achieve its successful implementation. It could not have come a better time. I therefore wish to appeal to our people to do their utmost to guard it and prevent its vandalisation so as to serve them for as long as possible” Oladipo appealed.

Speaking on the project, the Project Manager of UNDP, Mr. Segun Adaju, said there are numerous benefits derivable from it, saying this include access to regular power supply needed to drive socio- economic activities, thereby empowering rural dwellers and creating employment opportunities.

According to him, the project was also capable of reducing urban-rural drift as it could ensure job opportunities for the unemployed youths, undergraduates, unemployed graduates and women, adding that a training programme on the use and how to repair the solar-propelled

•Governor Amosun

power supply would be organised for the dwellers.

Adaju noted that the programme was a pilot project tailored to capture all the 774 Local Government Areas of the country, pointing out that Ogun state was picked as its first port of call being an evolving commercial hub. He said Odogbolu and Sagamu Local Governments were chosen to test run the pilot programme before moving to the remaining 18 Local Governments.

Responding on behalf of her colleague, the Chairman, Sagamu Local Government, Mrs. Funmilayo Efunwape assured that the councils would give necessary logistic support towards ensuring the success of the programme and urged the people to do their best to ensure longevity so that they could reap from its abundant benefits.

THE NATION FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2013

49

50

THE NATION FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2013

IN THE HIGH COURT OF LAGOS STATE OF NIGERIA PROBATE REGISTRY, IKEJA DIVISION WHEREAS the person whose names are set-out in the first Column under died intestate on the date and place stated in the said Column. AND WHEREAS the person or persons whose names and addresses and relationship (if any) to the deceased are set out in the second Column here have applied to the High Court of Lagos State for a Grant of Letter of Administration of the Real and Personal Properties of the deceased. NOTICE IS HEREBY given that Letters of Administration will be granted to such persons unless a NOTICE TO PROHIBIT THE GRANT is filed in the registry within (14) days from the date hereof.

S/N

NAMES OF THE DECEASED PERSON:

S/N

1. Mr Segun Adebiyi late of No. 27, Adebiyi Lawal Street, Ijegun, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 18th day of June, 2011 at Lagos.

2. John Kokumo Ogianyo (Otherwise known as MWO John Ogianyo) late of No. 17, Rafiu Ipaye Street, Agunlejika Surulere, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 25th day of May, 2011 at NARH Yaba, Lagos.

3. Samuel Oladimeji Oyelami late of No. 34, Egba Street, Onilekere Area Ikeja Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 23rd day of December, 2006 at London 4. Mr Micheal Kolawole Adejuwon (Otherwise known as Adejuwon Michael Kolawole) late of Block 212A, Flat 1, Abesan Housing Estate, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 15th day of January, 1991 at Lagos.

5. Mr Oyeyinka Ajagbe late of No. 10, Kogberegbe Street, Ojota, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 7th day of October, 2011 at Lagos.

6. Inspector Anthonio Olatunji (Otherwise known as Anthony Olatunji) late f 33, Mobolaji Bank Anthony Way Ikeja Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 9th day of April, 2012 at Ikorodu.

7. Oladipupo Jimoh Adetunji late of 13, Odulana Street, Mushin, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 30th day of March, 2011 at Lasuth, Ikeja.

8. Adebisi Oluwabusola Aina (Otherwise known as Adebisi Oluwabusola ) late of 50, Oyedele Ogunniji Street, Anthony Village Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 7th day of August, 2012 at Lagos.

9. Pa John Dunkwu late of 34, Adeshina Street, Fadeyi Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 22nd day of June, 2009 at Lagos.

10. Odedeyi Abudu Kadiri late of 329, Agege Motor Road, Challenge Mushin, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 14th day of September, 2002 at Lagos.

11. Oyewole Oloruntola Martha late of No. 9, Alade Street, Oshodi, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 23rd day of October, 2011 at Ogun State.

12. Mr Obasi Nnamdi Princely late of 3, Kunmi Adebiyi Close, Okota Isolo, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 24th day of July, 2012 at Ogun State 13. Mr Egwu Dominic (Otherwise known as Egwuagu Dominic Ubaduma and Egwuago Dominic ) late of Igbo Opa Village, Ikorodu, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 1st day of July, 2011 at Lagos.

14. Mr Jelili Moroundiya late of 23, Ipaja Road, Iyana Ipaja, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 1st day of December, 2008 at Lagos.

15. Sir Alex Edoziem (Otherwise known as Sir Dr Alex Edoziem) late of 3, Dolapo Oyetunde Street, Mafoluku Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 12th day of November, 2010 at Lagos Luth Idi Araba Lagos.

16. Flight Sergeant Hassan T.M. (Otherwise known as FS Hassan T.M. and NAF 97/18243 FS Hassan T.M.) late of Airforce Comprehensive School deceased who died intestate on the 15th day of December, 2011 at Airforce Medical Centre Kano 17. Major Onomivbori Mabel (Mrs) (Otherwise known as Onomivbori Mabel and Major ) late of Plot 146, Oyadiran Estate, Iwaya, Sabo Yaba, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 3rd day of February, 2011 at Lagos.

18. Eweje Adeyemi late of Block 124, Flat 1, Amuwo Odofin Lagos,deceased who died intestate on the 2nd day of April, 2012 at Lagos.

19. Olukorede Michael Olusanya (Otherwise known as Olusanya Olukorede ) late of 3, Prince Durotoye Close Ifako Agege, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 16th day of August, 2008 at Lagos.

20. Mr Ihenyen Vincent Ofanson late of Block D17, F.A.A.N. Quarters, Ikeja, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 24th day of November, 2011 at Lagos.

21. Bernard Ihuoma late of 5, Celestial Close, Off Oremeji Street, Old Akute Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 8th day of November, 2011 at Lagos.

22. Mrs Abdulsalam Zubeidat (Otherwise known as Mrs Abdusalami Zubeidat) late of 267 Flat 3, Jakande Estate, Isolo, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 17th day of June, 2011 at Lagos.

23. Mr Titus Oyedele Oyebamiji (Otherwise known as Titus Oyebamiji) late of 12AB Shagari Estate, Moshalashi Bus Stop, Iyana Ipaja Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 9th day of October, 2012 at Ogun State.

24. Adebanjo Morenike late of 17, Egberongbe Street, Bariga, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 26th day of December, 2010 at Lagos.

25. Jinadu Onabiyi Onijoko (Otherwise known as Onijoko Jinadu Onabiyi) late of 9, shobayo Street, Palmgrove Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 24th day of June, 1973 at Lagos.

26. Mr Cyprian Orjiakor (Otherwise known as Orjiakor Cyprian ) late of No. 6, Shaw Street, Mafoluku Oshodi, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 12th day of May, 2012 at Ihiala Anambra State.

27. Onuchukwu Linus late of 27, Saka Street, Shogunle Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 28th day of October, 2011 at Lagos.

28. Okoba A. Nkezikwe (Otherwise known as Alexander Nkezikwe Okoba) late of 19, New Lagos Street, Ajegunle , Ikorodu, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 16th day of May, 2012 at Lagos.

29. Ambali Alao Olabode late of 6, Ifesowapo Street, Oke Ira Ogba, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 12th day of January, 2011 at Abeokuta.

30. Kalu Jude Chukwuma (Otherwise known as Mr Jude Chukwuma Kalu) late of 9, Adeoti Street, Kwara Bus stop Akowonjo Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 5th day of October, 2011 at Lagos.

31. Virginia Chinwe Nkwocha (Otherwise known as Nkwocha V.C.) late of 14, Aderounmi Close , Oluti Amuwo Odofin, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 11th day of January, 2012 at Lagos.

32. James Oladepo Olagbaju late of 2, Church Street, Oke Sagun Compound, Ipaja, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 20th day of April, 2011 at Lagos.

33. Sunday Adebayo Aniya (Otherwise known as Aniya Sunday) late of 22, Morenikeji Street, Ogba, Ikeja, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 23rd day of March, 2008 at Luth .

34. Adigun Rasheed Akanmu (Otherwise known as Adigun Rasheed) late of 10, Ijaoye Street, Kaso Bus Stop, Alagbado, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 21st day of March, 2011 at Abuja.

35. Sir Anthony Aliu late of 10B, Olusegun Ogundana Drive Magodo, deceased who died intestate on the 18th day of March, 2012 at Ogun State.

36. Folorunsho Micheal Anihundidun (Otherwise known as Anihundidun Folorunsho Micheal) late of 19, Fasanmi Street, Igbogbo, Ikorodu, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 10th day of October, 2010 at Lagos.

37. Mr Kukoyi Olushola Barry Clough Adedeji (Otherwise known as Mr Kukoyi Olushola and Mr Kukoyi O.B. Adedeji) late of 2B, Oyebanji Afolarin Street, Ketu, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 28th day of September, 2011 at Luth-Lagos.

38. Lasekan Lanrewaju Omolara (Otherwise known as Olanrewaju Omolara Idowu and Mrs Lasekun Lanre) late of 9B, LBIC Bungalow Ogba, Ijaiye Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 19th day of May, 2011 at Lagos.

39. Juliana Ashabi Akintoye late of 3, Jinadu Street, Off Olateju Street, Mushin, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 30th day of November, 2007 at Lagos.

40. Joel Bamidele late of 12, Ajao Abimbola Street, Ikorodu Road, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 20th day of April, 2010 at Lagos.

41. Ogunsanmi Olufunke Olusola (Otherwise known as Ogunsanmi Olufunke Olusola) late of 3, Lisabi Street, Off Salami Saibu Street, Palm Grove, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 17th day of March, 2011 at Ogun State.

42. Ayinla Abdulmumeen (Otherwise known as Abdulmumeen Oladimeji Ayinla ) late of 279, Iju Ishaga Agege, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 12th day of December, 2011 at Lagos.

43. Tokosi Moshood Aremu (Otherwise known as Akeju Moshood Aremu, Mohammed Tokosi, Tokosi Momodu, Tokosi Muhunmed and Tokosi Munmodu) late of 89, Oyedeji Street, Ojo Road, Apapa, Ajegunle, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 13th day of January, 2010 at Lagos.

44. Oludaisi Adewale (Otherwise known as Adewale Oludaisi) late of 49, Bola Street, Ebute Metta, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 28th day of January, 2012 at Ikeja, Lagos.

45. Akanbi Margaret Olubanke (Otherwise known as Mrs Akanbi Margaret) late of 3, Naiyeju Street, Ikotun, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 1st day of May, 2010 at Lagos.

46. Mrs Isaac Peace (Otherwise known as Mrs Ima Isaac Okon) late of 6, Orepeju Close, Shasha Akowonjo, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 16th day of December, 2011 at Lagos.

47. Igbinoba Patrick Osaretin (Otherwise known as sInspector Igbinoba Patrick Osaretin and Igbinoba Patrick) late of Block 27, Car Wash Police Barrack Idimu, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 19th day of October, 2011 at Lagos.

48. Mr Raji Sunday Bakare (Otherwise known as Mr Sunday Raji Bakare) late of 302, Shagamu Road, Odogunyan Ikorodu, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 12th day of June, 2011 at Lagos.

49. Oludare Oyebowale late of Plot 1, House 15, Diamond Estate Lasu Iba Express way Igando, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 20th day of April, 2010 at Lagos.

50. Okonta Ama Mary (Otherwise known as Okonta Ama and Ama Mary Okonta) late of 14, Odunalayo Street, Ijaiye Ojokoro Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 11th day of July, 2012 at Lagos.

51. Madam Olubode Modupeola late of No. 22, Aliyu Street, Iju Ishaga , Lagos State deceased who died intestate on the 4th day of December, 2010 at Ogun State 52. Alhaji Bashiru Bello (Otherwise known as Alhaji Bashiru Momodu Bello) late of 9, Itayemi Street, Surulere, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 9th day of September, 2001 at Lagos.

53. Alhaja Moriamo Alake Jatto (Otherwise known as Mrs Moriamo Alake Jatto ) late of 78A Lewis Street, Lafiaji Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 16th day of July, 2004 at Lagos.

54. Madam Tinuade Onanuga late of Olaleye Street, Sawmill Gbagada, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 4th day of September, 2011 55. Chief Kolawole Idowu late of 37, Ikotun Road, Egbe, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 20th day of April, 2005 at Lagos.

56. Mr Solomon Adebowale Cole (Otherwise known as Cole Adebowale Solomon) late of 2, Memudu Aremu Street, Ikate, Surulere, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 15th day of November, 1964 at Lagos.

57. Tajudeen Adisa Raji (otherwise known as Raji Tajudeen Adisa) late of 15, Tapa Street, Ebute Metta, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 15th day of July, 2012 at Lagos.

58. Ejigbo James Sunmola (Otherwise known as Sunmola Ejigbo) late of 27/29, Ogunmokun Street, Mushin, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 11th day of May, 2009 at Ikare, Ondo.

59. Mr Osobu Adewunmi late of 24, Ogundare Avenue , Lanre Bus stop Igando, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 13th day of August, 2011 at Eko Hospital Lagos.

60. Olanrewju Isreal Olaonipekun late of 10, Josiah Aina Street, Amje Bus stop, Alagbado, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 28th day of September, 2012 at Ogun State.

61. Samuel Adeniyi Ayodele (Otherwise known as Mr Ayodele Samuel ) late of 22, Omoniyi Street, Iju Ishaga, Agege, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 11th day of January, 2012.

62. Nwolisa Kenneth Ifeanyichukwu (Otherwise known as Nwolisa Ken ) late of Plot 16, Bashiru Street, Magodo , GRA Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 16th day of November, 2008 at Lagos.

63. Esther U. Oviosa (Otherwise known as Esther Oviosa and Mrs Esther Ukunoritsemofe Oviosa) late of 151 Muyibi Street, Olodi Apapa, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 16th day of April, 2012 at U.S.A. 64. Pastor Reuben Akintunde late of 524, Ikorodu Road, Maryland, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 6th day of January, 2012 at SDA Hospital Lagere, Ile Ife. 65. (Mrs) Dada Abosede Eunice (Otherwise known as Mrs Eunice Abosede Dada) late of 15, Itogbe Street, Orile Agege, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 23rd day of August, 2011 at Orile Agege.

66. Alhaji Sani Badru late of 5, Shyllon Street, Ilupeju Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 30th day of May, 2006 at Lagos.

67. Ayodeji Samuel late of 39, Kujore Street, Ojota, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 11th day of August, 2012 at Lagos.

68. Celestina Azike late of Block 50, Flat 12, Gowon Estate, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 24th day of January, 2010 at Lagos.

69. Yusuf Idowu Bakare late of 74, Ladega Street, Ikorodu, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 25th day of December, 2009 at Ikorodu.

70. Mrs Selinah Olusolabomi Alebiosu (otherwise known as Mrs S. Olusolabomi Alebiosu and Mrs Selina Olusolabomi Alebiosu) late of 4, Ganiu Rabiu Street, Ketu, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 5th day of January, 2000 at Lagos.

71. Eric Cholu late of No. 8, Olaiya Street, Alausa Ikeja, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 7th day of May, 2011 at Lagos.

72. Mrs Rebecca Ajayi-Ola (otherwise known as Mrs Yegide Abdul Azeez) late of No. BA 23 Shagari estate, Ipaja, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 15th day of July, 2001.

73. Emmanuel Dorothea Adeoti (Otherwise known as Dorothea A. Emmanuel) late of 24, Anjorin street, Mushin Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 7th day of September, 1994 at Imowe Quarters Isiwo Ijebu.

74. Mr Kingsley Onvoha (Otherwise known as Mr Kinsley Onuoha) late of Plot 646, Somide Odujirin Avenue, Omole Lagos,deceased who died intestate on the 18th day of June, 2004 at Ikeja.

75. Akamo Adekunle late of 23, Somefun Street, Agege, Lagos State deceased who died intestate on the 24th day of May, 2011 at Lagos.

76. Mr Samson Willie Udoh late of 36, Adeola Street, Oluti Agboju, Amuwo Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 28th day of June, 2009 at Lagos.

77. Dr Ibraheem Saheed Adeola (Otherwise known as Dr Ibraheem Saheed) late of 25, Jagunmolu Street, Bariga, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 14th day of October, 2011 at Lasuth, Ikeja.

78. Samuel Olayiwola Adeleye late of 10, OLusoji Street, Oshodi, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 9th day of September, 1973 , at Royal Orthopaedic Hospital, Igbobi.

NAMES OF APPLICANT APPLYING FOR THE GRANT

1. Mr Olufunso O. Adebiyi, Miss Olufunke A. Adebiyi and Olusegun A. Adebiyi all of No. 27, Adebiyi Lawal Street, Ijegun, Lagos three children of the said deceased.

2. Elizabeth Isioma O. Ogianyo and Martins Oshoke Ogianyo both of 17, Rafiu Ipaye Off Agunlejika Surulere, Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

3. Mrs Benedicta Oyelami and Mr Adeleke Adeoye both of 35, Adesina Street, Ijeshatedo , Lagos, widow and nephew respectively of the said deceased.

4. Iyabode Kolawole and Temitope Kolawole both of Block 212A, Flat 1, Abesan Housing Estate, two of the children of the said deceased.

5. Mrs Humani Nike Ajagbe and Miss Bilikis Folashade Ajagbe both of No. 10, Kogberegbe Street, Ojota, Lagos widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

6. Anthonio Abioye and Anthonio Oderinde both of 33, Mobolaji Bank Anthony Way, Ikeja, Lagos,two brothers of the said deceased.

7. Mr Oladipupo Ismaila and Mrs Dupe Oladipupo both of 13, Odulana Street, Mushin, Lagos widow and brother respectively of the said deceased.

8. Ayotunde Adebisi and Oluwatoyin Okoizi both of 50, Oyedele Ogunniji Street, Anthony Village, Lagos, widower and sister respectively of the said deceased.

9. Mrs Asika Dunkwu Sotobo and Mrs Maria Obiekwe both of 55, Palm Avenue Mushin, Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased.

10. Dauda Odedeyi and Mrs Sherifatu Odedeyi both of 329, Agege Motor Road Challenge Mushin, Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased.

11. Oyewole Sunday Lawrence and Aderibigbe Deborah both of Zone "B" Konifewo, Ijako Via Sango Ota Ogun State, widower and sister respectively of the said deceased.

12. Mrs Nneka Gloria Nnamdi and Mr Ogbonna Obasi both of 3, Kunmi Adebiyi Close, Okota Isolo, Lagos ,widow and brother respectively of the said deceased.

13. Mrs Egwemi Bibian and Mr Dominic Egwuagu both of 86A, Moradeyo Street, Domosope Bus Stop, Agboju Amuwo Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased.

14. Ganiyu Moroundiya and Kafilat Moroundiya both of 23, Ipaja Road, Iyana Ipaja, Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased.

15. Edith Edoziem (Mrs) and Alex Chukwubisi Edoziem both of 3, Dolapo Oyetunde Street, Mafoluku, Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

16. Sergeant Haruna Hassan of No. 15, Oshobu Street, Agege, Lagos brother of the said deceased.

17. George Esse Owumi and Mr Anthony Onomivbori both of Plot 146, Oyadiran Estate, Sabo Iwaya, Lagos, the only son and nephew respectively of the said deceased.

18. Eweje Okeyemisi (Mrs) and Eweje Adewale Sunday both of Block 124, Flat 1, Amuwo Odofin Lagos widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

19. Olusanya Mojisola O. of 3, Durotoye Close, Ifako Agege, Lagos and Olusanya Oluseun of 8, Abbey Street, Onipanu Lagos widow and brother respectively of the said deceased.

20. Ehis Ehimen Ihenyen and Itua Christian Ihenyen both of Block D17, F.A.A.N. Quarters Ikeja Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased.

21. Ihuoma Ifeanyichukwu Austin Peter and Ihuoma Chidi Ebere Kingsley both of No. 5, Celestial Close, Off Oremeji Street, Old Akute Road, Iju Ishaga, two children of the said deceased.

22. Mr Salami Shehu Tijani of 267, Flat 3 Jakande Estate, Isolo, Lagos and Mr Umar Bello of Nigerian Police Barracks Ikeja, widower and father respectively of the said deceased.

23. Mrs Folake Oyebamiji, Yetunde Omotolani Oyebamiji and Damilola Omowunmi Oyebamiji all of No. 12A/B Shagari Estate, Moshalasi Bus Stop, Iyana Ipaja, Lagos widow and two of the children respectively of the said deceased.

24. Adebanjo Oluwakemi and Adebanjo Oluwadare Babayemi both of 4, Oluwatoyin Street, Bariga, Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased.

25. Alh. Chief Supian Olanrewaju Owolabi ,Chief Mufutau Onijoko, Muyibat Olabisi Adekanbi (Nee Jinadu Onijoko) and Mr Lamidi Balogun , all of 9, Shobayo Street, Palmgrove Lagos, two children and two grand children respectively of the said deceased.

26. Mrs Basilia Adaeze Orjiakor and Miss Vivian Ijeoma Orjiakor both of 6, Shaw Street, Mafoluku Oshodi, Lagos widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

27. Mrs Ebere Onuchukwu Linus and Mr Ikechukwu Onuchukwu both of 27, Saka Street, Shogunle, Lagos, widow and brother respectively of the said deceased.

28. Mrs Mary Ndubuma Okoba and Miss Ebele Ifechukwude Okoba both of 19, New Lagos Street, Ajegunle, Ikorodu, Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

29. Mr Ismaila Olabode, Mr Tajudeen Olabode, Mrs Muyibat Olabode Idowu and Mr Lukmon Olabode all of 6, Ifesowapo Street, Oke Ira Ogba , Lagos, four of the children of the said deceased.

30. Josephine Okorie and Benedicta Kalu both of 9, Adeoti Street, Kwara Bus Stop, Akowonjo, Lagos, the mother and sister respectively of the said deceased.

31. Jacinta C. Eke (Nee Nkwocha) and Lucky Nkwocha both of 14, Aderounmu Close, Oluti Amuwo Odofin Lagos, sister and brother respectively of the said deceased.

32. Mrs Aliratu Olagbaju and Abioye Olagbaju both of 2, Church Street, Oke Sagun Compound , Ipaja Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

33. Mrs Cecilia Kikelomo Aniya of 22, Morenikeji Street, Ogba, Lagos and Anu Aniya of 7, Adedeji Street, Iju Ishaga, Lagos, widow and brother respectively of the said deceased.

34. Adigun Olaleye and Mrs Adigun Ramota both of 10, Ijaoye Street, Kaso Bus Stop, Alagbado, Lagos, one of the children and sister respectively of the said deceased.

35. Mrs Priscillia Ramotu and Barr. Anthonia Aliu both of 10A, Olusegun Ogundana Drive Magodo , Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

36. Mrs Oluwatoyin Anihundidun and Miss Funmilayo Anihundidun both of 10, Bello Finni Street, Ikorodu, Lagos , widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

37. Tunde Kukoyi and Segun Kukoyi both of 26, Oyebanjo Afolarin Street, Ketu, Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased.

38. Lasekan Akinyele and Lasekan Oreofe Oluwa both of 9B, LBIC Bungalows, Ogba Ijaye Lagos, widower and one of the children respectively of the said decased.

39. Mrs Olubunmi Margaret Akingbade of Block 441, Flat 6, Jakande Estate, Mile 2, Lagos, the only child of the said deceased.

40. Mrs Funmilayo Adeokun of 30, Hausa Land, Bus Stop, Ajegunle, Lagos and Mrs Aminat Olaitan of 3, Bara Street, Boundry , Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased.

41. Ogunsami Ayodele Adewale of Ilupeju Estate, Ijede, Ikorodu, Lagos and Awujoola Omolola Zainab of 44, Tenibegiloju Street, Odogunyan , Lagos, widower and sister respectively of the said deceased.

42. Adenike Amudat Ayinla and Mulikat Abisola Ayinla both of 22, Bola Oshikoya Street, Alagbole Lagos widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

43. Tokosi fatai Gbolahan, Tokosi Hamzat Babalola and Allinson Morufat all of 89, Oyedeji Street, Ojo Road, Ajegunle, Apapa, Lagos three of the children of the said deceased.

44. Mrs Caroline Ibironke Adewale, Miss Olubunmi Adewale and Miss Adekunbi Adewale all of 49, Bola Street, Ebute Metta, Lagos widow and two children respectively of the said deceased.

45. John Oladapo Akanbi and Damilola Eunice Akanbi both of 3, Naiyeju Street, Ikotun, Lagos widower and one of the children respectively of the said decased.

46. Mr Isaac Okon and Mr Moses Isaac Okon both of 6, Orepeju Close, Shasha Akowonjo, Lagos, widower and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

47. Orobosa Osaretin Igbinoba and Mr Mike Igbinoba both of 13, Fatai Street, Akowonjo Egbeda, Lagos one of the children and brother respectively of the said deceased.

48. Mrs Mercy Raji Bakare, Mrs Iyabo Raji Bakare and Kazeem Raji Bakare all of 302, Shagamu Road, Odogunyan Ikorodu, Lagos two widows and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

49. Mrs O.Aina Oyebowale of Plot 1, House 15, Diamond Estate, Igando, Lagos and Dr Olaniyi M. Oyebowale of 28, Anibaba Street, Ketu, Lagos, widow and brother respectively of the said deceased.

50. Pastor Josiah N. Okonta and DNS (Mrs) Felicia I. Okonta both of 14, Odunalayo Street, Ijaiye Ojokoro Lagos father and mother respectively of the said deceased 51. Mr Olubode Ezekiel and Olubode Babatunde both of 56, Agbado Oke Aro Road Ogun State widower and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

52. Alhaja Tawakalitu Bisiolu, Alhaja Falilat Bombata and Alhaji Ibrahim Bello all of 9, Itayemi Street, Surulere, Lagos , three of the children of the said deceased.

53. Alhaja Kuburat Aluko, Alhaja Aminat Iyabo Balogun, Alh. Lukman Ekundayo Jatto and Mrs Taiwo Hassanat Alagba all of 78A, Lewis Street, Lafiaji Lagos, four of the children of the said deceased.

54. Mr Keji Onanuga, Mr Oluwaseyi Tunji Onanuga , Mrs Adeola Atinuke Daodu and Miss Yeside Wemimo Onanuga all of 13, Olaleye Street, Sawmill Gbagada, Lagos , four grandchildren of the said deceased.

55. Mr Olugbenga Idowu and Mr Sunday Owodunni Idowu both of 37, Ikotun Road, Egbe, Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased.

56. Mr James Babajide Cole , Mrs Clara Olusola Ibeneme, Mrs Dupe Fapohunda and Miss Bisi Cole all of 2, Memudu Aremu Street, Ikate, Surulere, Lagos, four children of the said deceased.

57. Luqman Kolawole Raji and Raufu Olamilekan Raji both of 15, Tapa Street, Ebute Metta, Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased.

58. Mrs James Omobolanle of 28, Asofihan Street, Mushin, Lagos , Mr Ejigbo Akinola of 27/29 Ogunmokun Street, Mushin, Lagos and Mrs Adesuyi Oluremi of 17, Daniel Ejame, Off Ahmadiya Bus Stop , three children of the said deceased.

59. Mrs Osobu Abolanle of No. 24, Ogundare Avenue, Lanre Bus Stop, Igando, Lagos and Abdul Raheem Nofisat of 33B, James Onifade Street, Akesan, Lagos, widow and sister respectively of the said deceased.

60. Mrs Taiwo Aderoju and Olanrewaju Sunday both of 10, Josiah Aina Street, Amje Bus Stop, Alagbado, Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased.

61. Mrs Joy Idara Ayodele, Miss Precious Damilola Ayodele and Emmanuel Oluwatayo Ayodele all of 22, Omoniyi Street, Iju Ishaga, Agege, Lagos, widow and two of the children respectively of the said deceased.

62. Mrs Edide E. Nwolisa of Plot 16, Bashiru Street, Magodo G.R.A. Lagos, and Ms Nkiru Dorothy Nwolisa of 5, Osikoya Street, Magodo, Lagos, widow and sister respectively of the said deceased.

63. George Augustine Oviosa and Gloria Richardson both of No. 6, Muslim Avenue Lagos, two children of the said deceased.

64. Abiodun Akintunde and Ebunoluwa Akintunde both of 524, Ikorodu Road, Maryland , Lagos widow and one of the chidren respectively of the said deceased.

65. Mr Dada Amos and Mr Dada Olawale Johnson both of 15, Itogbe Street, Orile Agege, Lagos widower and the only child respectively of the said deceased.

66. Alhaji Fatai Adeshina Badru, Alhaji Lukman Badru and Ahmed Badru all of 5, Shyllon Street, Ilupeju , Lagos, three of the children of the said deceased.

67. Deborah Ayodeji (Mrs) and Ayodeji Johnson both of 39, Kujore Street, Ojota, Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said decased.

68. Henry Azike of STD Barracks Ikeja Medical Road, Lagos and Onyeka Azike of 8, Ipetu Ijesha Ojokoro Ijaye , Lagos, brother and ssister respectively of the said deceased.

69. Yusuf Banjo and Kayode Yusuf both of 14, Oyerokun Street, Surulere, Lagos, two children of the said deceased.

70. Miss Olufunke Alebiosu of 16, Daniel Makinde Street, Ketu, Lagos, and Mr Olumide Alebiosu of 4, Ganiu Rabiu Street, Ketu, Lagos, two children of the said deceased.

71. Abegunde Oluwakemi and Abegunde Michael Bosede both of 28, Adesile Street, Alafia Mushin, Lagos, widow and father respectively of the said deceased.

72. Mrs Kehinde Babalola (Nee Ajayi-Ola) and Mr Kelani Olusola Olumo both of No. BA 23, Shagari Estate, Ipaja, Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased.

73. Mrs Olusola Adelugba of 24, Anjorin street, Mushin Lagos, the only child of the said deceased.

74. Mrs Obiageli Onuoha, Miss Udochukwu Onuoha , Miss Vanesa Onuoha and Mr Bobby Onuoha all of 646, Somide Odujinmi Avenue, Omole, Lagos, widow, two of the children and brother respectively of the said deceased.

75. Adesola Dosumu and Adelani Dare both of 23, Somefun Street, Agege, Lagos, mother and brother respectively of the said deceased.

76. Mrs Anietie Samson Udoh and Mr Willies Samson Otobong both of 36, Adeola Street, Oluti , Agboju Amuwo Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

77. Amina Sopeyin , Mrs Aminat Oloruntoyin Ibrahim and Mr Shafiudeen Ibrahim all of 25, Jagunmolu street, Bariga, Lagos, and Dr Nasiru Ibrahim of LasuCOM, 1/5 Oba Akinjobi Street, Ikeja, widow, mother ,brother and chairman muslim community respectively of the said deceased.

78. Mr Adesina Adeleye, Mrs Adenike Farinde , Mrs Adebisi Sarumi all of 10, Olusoji Street, Oshodi, Lagos, and Mr Adebayo Ogunyemi of Plot 99/ 100 Omotoye Estate, Orile Agege, Lagos, three of the children and solicitor respectively of the said deceased.

G.A SAFARI (MR.) PROBATE REGISTRAR

KABORE:

Put: We deserved

Pitroipa must play in final

52

the victory

Friday, February 8, 2013

GYAN:

Better

team won A

•Kabore

FTER showing reluctance to travel to South Africa because of “safety concerns”, Emmanuel Adebayor has allegedly been the victim of a robbery at his Sun City Hotel – along with his Togo teammates.

MTNFootball reports that The Hawks were robbed shortly after their arrival in South Africa for the Africa Nations Cup. The details of the case are unknown at this point, although some cash and personal belongings are said to have been taken.

"Police are conducting an investigation, therefore we are

PHOTO PANORAMA

•Messi

•Ghana coach Kwesi Appiah

THE NATION FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2013

53

NEWS

Judge summons Prison Comptroller 100 aspirants pick PDP forms over escaped inmate A T

FEDERAL High Court in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital, yesterday summoned the Comptroller of Port Harcourt Prisons, Jerome Ogundana, over an escaped inmate.

Ogundana was invited by Justice Uche Agomoh to explain the whereabout of Uche Aduku (alias Chief Adeyemi).

The Comptroller confirmed the escape, but assured that efforts are on to ensure his rearrest.

Aduku, an inmate on the Awaiting Trial Men (ATM) list

From Osemwengie Ben Ogbemudia, Benin

From Rosemary Nwisi, Port Harcourt

of Port Harcourt prisons reportedly escaped from custody last year.

The escapee and three others were arraigned by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Aduku is physically-challenged and walks on crutches.

Ogundana was represented by an official from the prison’s record office, Alex

Ederiema.

According to him, the inmate absconded from the Braithwaite Memorial Hospital (BMH), Port Harcourt, where he was taken for treatment.

He said: “The accused was remanded in our custody. At a point, he was sick and was referred to BMH. “On that day, he was taken to the hospital by a medical officer.

“While the officer was filling the hospital documents, the prisoner escaped.”

It was gathered that Aduku and his ‘accomplice’ were granted bail by the court but he could not meet his bail terms.

Justice Agomoh urged them to ensure that Aduku was rearrested before the next sitting.

She adjourned the matter till April 11 and urged EFCC to decide on the next line of action before the date.

Community accuses Shell of ‘interference’

T

HE management of Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) could face a contempt of court charge, following reports that it plans to dissolve the Kou Cluster Communities Development Board in Ekeremor Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.

The move is despite a legal tussle between the company and members of the extant board at the High Court 5, Yenagoa, the state capital.

Members of the board, led

by Osteen Igbapike, had sued the company and its officials, including the Manager, Government and Com-

From Shola O’Neil, Warri

munity Relations, Evans Krukrubo.

Although the matter is still in court, it was gathered that Krukrubo on January 28, wrote to the Commissioner for Energy, requesting him to “progress with the dissolution” of Kou CDB, much to the anger of the litigants.

Consequently, the law firm of Larry Ovwromoh reminded Shell of the legal implication of going ahead with the move.

The letter, a copy of which was made available to our reporter, noted that a hearing notice has been fixed for February 28.

‘The matter is clearly sub-judice and I humbly urge you to stay action on the issue until the matter in court is resolved’ “In the circumstance therefore, the attempt by you (Krukrubo) as the third defendant to dissolve the board amounts to interfering with judicial process and an at-

tempt to pre-judge the outcome of the case, a conduct (that) is highly reprehensive and condemnable.

“The matter is clearly subjudice and I humbly urge you to stay action on the issue until the matter in court is resolved,” Larry Ovwromoh, who signed the letter, added.

Igbapike said the purpose of the suit is to protect the “rape and mismanagement” of the Kou GMoU of 2007 2011 by some officials of the oil firm.

Shell’s spokesperson Precious Okolobo said: Under the terms of the GMoU governance structure, Shell has no powers to dissolve any CDB.”

Kuku: I’m not involved in Boyloaf’s arrest

•Kuku

T

HE Presidential Amnesty Office has debunked claims that its

C

Chairman, Kingsley Kuku, was involved in the arrest and detention of ex-militant leader, Ebikabowei VictorBen (alias Boyloaf).

A statement in Abuja by the Amnesty Office’s Head of Media and Communications, Daniel Alabrah, said the incident that led to the arrest was misrepresented in some reports.

The reports alleged that Kuku was involved in an altercation at the Murtala Muhammed Airport in Lagos.

“The fact is that Kuku was nowhere near the airport at the time his Special Assistant (Special Duties), Henry Ugbolue, was attacked by Boyloaf and two others, which led to their arrest and detention by the police.

“For purposes of clarity, the unprovoked assault on Ugbolue had nothing to do with Kuku or the amnesty programme.

“The facts about the incident have been documented by the police at the Lagos State Police

Imoke yet to return

ROSS River State Governor Liyel Imoke is yet to resume office.

Imoke has been on a twomonth break since December 6.

The state has, however, been governed by Acting Governor Efiok Cobham.

A December 6 statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Christian Ita, said: “Some three weeks ago, His Excellency took a short break after a long hectic and eventful year all preparatory to the start of the busy Calabar Festival.

“He used the opportunity to undergo a medical checkup and, in the course of doing so, was advised by his doctors to undergo further evaluation.

From Nicholas Kalu, Calabar

Accordingly, His Excellency will be proceeding on a two-month accumulated leave with effect from today.”

The statement also said Imoke had communicated his decision to the House of Assembly through a letter.

A few days ago, the governor commented on Facebook that one cannot continue to cheat nature, especially working at the pace he works.

His words: “It’s probably been eight to 10 years or more without a break or a decent vacation.

“I truly need to take this time off.

“Thankfully, we are unified in our approach to gov-

•Imoke

ernance so there’s continuity which is important.”

He was expected to resume yesterday.

However, top government officials said there is no cause for alarm as the governor would resume in a few days.

Calabar queen for festival

T

HE newly crowned Carnival Calabar Queen will attend the Trinidad and Tobago Carnival.

“I am excited. I hope to learn about the culture over there and share our wonderful culture with them,” said Ms Dijeh.

Dijeh, a final-year student in Theatre and Media Studies from the University of Calabar, is the sixth queen.

She is very optimistic about using her theatrical skills as a tool to taking tourism to the next level.

Cross River State and Trinidad and Tobago share a common ground through culture and

tourism, of which carnival has become a focal point.

The Executive Secretary, Carnival Commission, Chris Agibe, said the state’s delegation would learn from Trinidad and Tobago and vice versa.

“This will also afford the people opportunity to be in touch with their roots, given the strong historical ties between them and us.”

The Carnival Queen, according to Agibe, is the state’s ambassador for tourism and would be giving talks – selling Cross River State to the world.

Command, Ikeja, where Boyloaf signed an undertaking before he was released.”

HE Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State has said over 100 aspirants have picked up nomination forms for the April 20 local government elections.

The Chairman, Dan Orbih, said yesterday that the final screening and primaries would hold tomorrow.

Orbih, who debunked the earlier speculation that the party would not participate in the election, said PDP would use the election to launch back into the state’s political mainstream.

He said: “What I can tell you now is that, people are responding. We have sold over 100 chairmanship nomination forms.

“For that of councillorship, it is tremendous. This gets to show that our great party, PDP, is on ground.

“The PDP is the party to beat. We will use this election to launch back fully and I assure you in 2016, we will be back on Dennis Osadebe Avenue.”

Edo WAI officials found From Osagie Otabor, Benin

T

WO officials of the War Against Indiscipline (WAI) in Edo State, who were reportedly ‘abducted’ by some commercial bike riders on Wednesday, have been found.

One was found naked on the Benin by-pass where he was allegedly dumped.

The other one was found on First East Circular Road in Benin City.

WAI officials and commercial bike riders clashed on Wednesday over the alleged killing of two motorcyclists.

Several motorcycles were destroyed while officials of WAI and some motorcyclists were injured in the fracas.

WAI Chairman David Olukoga told The Nation that one of the officials was locked up in an apartment.

He said they are waiting for the police to conclude investigation on the matter.

Lawmaker yet to be released

A

From Osagie Otabor, Benin

BDUCTORS of an Edo State lawmaker, Victor Edoror, are yet to contact the family five days after he was abducted.

Edoror and his driver were snatched on Sunday afternoon at Irrua in Esan Central Local Government Area.

A relation, who gave his name as Kingsley Edoror, said the kidnappers were yet to communicate with the family.

He said the kidnappers took the lawmaker’s car away.

Another unconfirmed source said the kidnappers are demanding N10million.

54

THE NATION FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2013

EQUITIES NIGERIAN STOCK EXCHANGE

Equities slow down amidst profit-taking

DAILY SUMMARY AS AT 7-2-13

T

HE market situation at the Nigerian stock market yesterday tilted to the negative as investors sought to review their portfolios and monetize substantial capital gains garnered in recent period.

Several stocks that had recorded significant gains in recent bullish run were overwhelmed by open market sale order, which pushed the average market position to the negative in spite of gains by most stocks that recorded price changes.

With 42 gainers and 30 losers, losses by highly capitalised stocks orchestrated the negative market situation.

Average return at the NSE dipped by 0.72 per cent, lowering the year-to-date return to 18.31 per cent.

Aggregate market value of all equities on the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) declined by N77 billion from N10.705 trillion to N10.628 trillion. The All Share Index (ASI), the main index that tracks changes in prices of all equities on the NSE, slipped from 33,460.14 points to 33,219.20 points.

By Taofik Salako and Tonia Osundolire

Nestle Nigeria, the highestpriced stock at the NSE, led the decliners with a loss of N4.99 to close at N830.01 per share. GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Nigeria followed with a loss of N2.23 to close at N47.13. Presco dropped by N1.01 to close at N25.20. Guaranty Trust Bank Plc lost 99 kobo to close at N25.02. Union Bank of Nigeria dropped by 80 kobo to close at N9.60.

National Salt Company of Nigeria (Nascon) slipped by 73 kobo to close at N9.51.

Oando dropped by 57 kobo to close at N13.33. Ecobank Transnational Incorporated lost 41 kobo to close at N13.63 while Zenith Bank and Dangote Sugar Refinery dropped by 40 kobo and 38 kobo to close at N21 and N8.61 respectively.

On the other hand, UAC of Nigeria topped the gainers’ list with a gain of N2.94 to close at N51.94. Ashaka Cement followed with addition of N1.68 to close at N26.03.

CAP rose by N1.53 to close at N32.14. MRS Oil and Gas

added N1.30 to close at N27.42. Julius Berger Nigeria gained N1 to close at N67.

Cement Company of Northern Nigeria gathered 52 kobo to close at N11.02. Berger Paints rose by 50 kobo to close at N10.60. Dangote Cement garnered 49 kobo to close at N142.50. Nigerian Breweries chalked up 45 kobo to close at N166.51 while Red Star Express rose by 29 kobo to close at N4.12 per share.

The tempo of activities also slowed down considerably with 25.7 per cent, 38.9 per cent and 14.1 per cent decline in volume, value and number of deals respectively. Total turnover stood at 701.48 million shares valued at N3.98 billion in 7,293 deals as against turnover of 944.10 million shares worth N6.52 billion recorded in 8,485 deals in the previous trading session.

Investors appeared to be showing preference for lowpriced stocks, otherwise known as penny stocks.

Unity Bank was the most active stock with a turnover of 129.61 million shares worth N118.85 million in 436 deals.

Transnational Corporation of Nigeria trailed with a turnover of 127.98 million shares valued at N228.41 million in 406 deals. Fidson Healthcare placed third with a turnover of 48.24 million shares worth N78.56 million in 190 deals.

NIGERIAN STOCK EXCHANGE DAILY SUMMARY AS AT 7-2-13

55

THE NATION FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2013

MONEY LINK

Ecobank Foundation embarks on CSR

FBN Capital: Tax revenues account for 7% of GDP

R

EVENUES from taxes account for seven per cent of Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), a report from FBN Capital, an investment and research firm has stated. It said that collections by the Federal Inland Revenue Service have increased more than tenfold from N424 billion in 2002 to N5 trillion last year.

The growth was attributed to the fact that employees have been removed from the civil service structure and given additional incentives.

“We note that this perfor-

Stories by Collins Nweze

mance will look still worse once the national accounts have been revised. The fuel subsidy payments cost amounted to N2.19 trillion in 2011, and was projected at N888 billion in the 2012 budget. However, there was an overrun last year and the National Assembly approved a supplementary budget of N161 billion,” it said.

It explained that subsidy payment arrears from 2011 had been estimated at N230 billion, but climbed to N450 billion. However, payments in 2013 is estimated at less

T

than N1 trillion, and did not anticipate another supplementary budget.

“The Federal Government’s proposals for 2013 set the domestic borrowing requirement at N528 billion and marked healthy progress towards the medium-term target of N500 billion in 2015.

On agriculture, it noted the support from the export expansion grant, which is slanted in favour of valueadded products. “The National Bureau of Statistics puts agricultural exports including processed goods in January-September 2012 at

•Finance Minister Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala

N1.3 trillion, compared with N13.6 trillion for mineral products. On ports, he said that clearance of goods had fallen from an average of 39 to seven days. The target is 48 hours with the help of paperless clearance,” it said.

T

out of a total of N546.4 billion, it said. “Offshore participation in the local debt market is up, boosted by yields and a positive outlook for the economy,” Kunle Ezun, a Lagos-based analyst at Ecobank Transnational Incorporated, said.

He added that foreign investors buy one-year bills on the relative low-risk factor, much as they buy bonds benefiting from inclusion in global indexes.

Barclays will add Nigeria to its local-currency government bond index in March, it said Nov. 6. JPMorgan Chase & Co. added the West African

A

S part of efforts to improve consumers’ lives by making them instant millionaires, Eko Supreme Resources Nigeria Limited, maker of So Klin and Good Mama detergents, has announced another set of winners in its ongoing scratch and win promo.

The promo, which is in its fourth year, runs till May 31, 2013. In all, 45 winners of N1 million each are expected to emerge while one lucky individual will smile home with the mega prize winner of N5 million.

Already, four people, namely: Ms. Oyeniyi Amidat, in Ibadan; Ms. Glory Bright in Abuja; Mrs. Ramatu

nation’s bonds to its benchmark emerging-market index series in October. The yield on 16.39 per cent naira debt due January 2022 fell eight basis points to 10.93 per cent, according to yesterday’s prices on the Financial Markets Dealers Association website.

The banking watchdog kept its benchmark interest rate unchanged for the eighth time on January 21 to stabilize the naira. The inflation rate in December eased to 12 per cent, from 12.3 per cent in the previous month, as the effects of flooding that damaged agricultural output last year began to subside.

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

Amount Amount Offered ($) Demanded ($) 350m 150m 350m 138m 350m 113m

Price Loss 2754.67 447.80

INTERBANK RATES 7.9-10% 10-11%

PRIMARY MARKET AUCTION (T-BILLS) Tenor 91-Day 182-Day 1-Year

Amount 30m 46.7m 50m

Rate % 10.96 9.62 12.34

Date 28-04-2012 “ 14-04-2012

GAINERS AS AT 7-2-13

SYMBOL WEMABANK DNMEYER PRESTIGE ROYALEX FIDSON REDSTAREX ASHAKACEM UACN CAP MRS

O/PRICE 1.22 1.24 0.93 0.78 1.54 3.83 24.35 49.00 30.61 26.12

C/PRICE 1.34 1.36 1.02 0.85 1.66 4.12 26.03 51.94 32.14 27.42

CHANGE 0.12 0.12 0.09 0.07 0.12 0.29 1.68 2.94 1.53 1.30

TRANSCORP UBN NASCON CHELLARAM ETERNA JOHNHOLT GLAXOSMITH STERLNBANK DANGSUGAR OANDO

O/PRICE 1.89 10.40 10.24 5.71 4.18 1.47 49.36 2.93 8.99 13.90

C/PRICE 1.71 9.60 9.51 5.43 3.98 1.40 47.13 2.80 8.61 13.33

NGN USD NGN GBP NGN EUR NIGERIA INTER BANK (S/N) (S/N) Bureau de Change (S/N) Parallel Market

Current Before

C u r r e n t CUV Start After %

147.6000 239.4810 212.4997

149.7100 244.0123 207.9023

150.7100 245.6422 209.2910

-2.11 -2.57 -1.51

149.7450

154.0000

154.3000

-3.04

152.0000

153.0000

155.5000

-2.30

153.0000

154.0000

156.0000

-1.96

DISCOUNT WINDOW Feb. ’11

July ’11

July ’12

MPR

6.50%

6.50%

12%

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% 11.8%

Date 2-7-12 27-6-12 22-6-12

7 Days 30 Days 60 Days 150 Days

27-10-11 N6.5236tr 20,607.37

28-10-11 N6.617tr 20,903.16

Rate (Previous) 4 Mar, 2012 9.0417 9.6667 11.2917 12.1250

% Change -1.44% -1.44%

MEMORANDUM QUOTATIONS

ARM AGGRESSIVE GROWTH KAKAWA GUARANTEED STANBIC IBTC GUARANTE AFRINVEST W.A. EQUITY FUND LOTUS CAPITAL HALAL BGL SAPPHIRE FUND BGL NUBIAN FUND FBN MONEY MARKET FUND FBN FIXED INCOME FUND NIGERIA INTERNATIONAL DEB. PARAMOUNT EQUITY FUND CONTINENTAL UNIT TRUST CENTRE-POINT UNIT TRUST STANBIC IBTC NIG EQUITY • ARM AGGRESSIVE • KAKAWA GUARANTEED

Offer Price

Bid Price

9.17 1.00 136.24 143.99 0.80 1.13 1.02 100.00 1,000.00 1,786.50 14.17 1.39 1.87 10,544.96

9.08 1.00 135.83 143.77 0.78 1.13 1.00 100.00 1,000.00 1,785.11 13.48 1.33 1.80 10,237.62

• STANBIC IBTC GUARANTE • AFRINVEST W.A. EQUITY FUND

NIBOR Tenor

NSE CAP Index

Name

CHANGE 0.18 0.80 0.73 0.28 0.20 0.07 2.23 0.13 0.38 0.57

Exchange Rate (N) 155.2 155.8 155.7

CAPITAL MARKET INDEX Year Start Offer

LOSERS AS AT 7-2-13

SYMBOL

Amount Sold ($) 150m 138m 113m

EXHANGE RATE 6-03-12 Currency

OBB Rate Call Rate

works perfectly on machine or hand wash. He said its formula helps remove tough stains while its colour guard protects colours, bringing out brighter colours in clothes. “We also have Good Mama Powder Detergent that is specially formulated to give you all you need in a powder detergent, giving your clothes that fresh and clean scent,” he added.

Ms. Amidat, said she was just passing through the Agbeni market in Ibadan when she noticed the products on display and decided to buy. “I bought Good Mama and So Klin and I was told to scratch the portions on the wrapper. Behold, I won N1 million,” she enthused.

WHOLESALE DUTCH AUCTION SYSTEM

MANAGED FUNDS

NIDF NESF

Abdullahi in Minna and Mrs. Osabiyi Phabe in Akure won N1 million each.

In a statement, Regional Sales Manager, South-west, Eko Supreme Resources Nigeria, Demola Adewuyi, said that people were excited when winners of N25,000 were presented on stage. “These are ordinary people who, just by being loyal to either So Klin detergent or Good Mama detergent, both of which are household names when it comes to quality detergent in Nigeria, became recipients of these cash prizes,” he said.

He explained that So Klin Concentrated Powder detergent is top quality concentrated powder detergent that

DATA BANK

Tenor

Initial Current Quotation Price Market N8250.00 5495.33 N1000.00 N552.20

Aku who was represented by the Executive Director, Finance and Risk, Mr. Dele Alabi, said the guiding principle of Ecobank’s corporate social responsibility activities is to contribute to the economic development and financial integration of Africa.

In his words: “Our main focus is to give back and contribute effectively to the societies in which we operate.

Ecobank is a responsible and caring corporate citizen; assisting communities and underprivileged groups to enhance their lives; we also encourage creativity, excellence and foster integration within the continent through the Ecobank Foundation”.

Firm rewards consumers with cash gifts

T-Bill yield falls to 16-month low HE Nigeria’s oneyear treasury bill yield fell to the lowest in 16 months as offshore demand took subscriptions to the highest on record. The Bloomberg report said the Central Bank of Nigeria sold N117 billion ($744.5 million) of 364-day bills on Wednesday at a yield of 10.6 per cent.

The rate is the lowest since September 29, 2011.

The regulator also sold N42 billion of 91-day bills at a yield of 10.32 per cent and N60 billion of 182- day securities at 10.5 per cent. Bids for oneyear debt amounted to N342 billion, the highest on record,

HE Ecobank Foundation has donated cash to both the Kanu Heart and Lumina foundations as part of the bank’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) activities reaching out to communities where Ecobank does business in Africa.

In a statement, Ecobank Foundation stated that the donations were part of Ecobank Transnational Incorporated private sector led initiative that supports impactful projects.

The foundation achieves its purpose by partnering registered non-profit making organizations.

Managing Director, Ecobank Nigeria, Mr. Jibril

Rate (Currency) 6, Mar, 2012 10.17% 11.46% 11.96% 12.54%

Movement

OPEN BUY BACK

Bank P/Court

Previous 04 July, 2012

Current 07, Aug, 2012

8.5000 8.0833

8.5000 8.0833

Movement

THE NATION FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2013

56

IN THE HIGH COURT OF LAGOS STATE OF NIGERIA PROBATE REGISTRY, IKEJA DIVISION WHEREAS the person whose names are set-out in the first Column under died intestate on the date and place stated in the said Column. AND WHEREAS the person or persons whose names and addresses and relationship (if any) to the deceased are set out in the second Column here have applied to the High Court of Lagos State for a Grant of Letter of Administration of the Real and Personal Properties of the deceased. NOTICE IS HEREBY given that Letters of Administration will be granted to such persons unless a NOTICE TO PROHIBIT THE GRANT is filed in the registry within (14) days from the date hereof.

S/N

NAMES OF THE DECEASED PERSON:

S/N

1. Beneth Adetola Oluwole Sangowawa, late of 4, Sam Shonibare Street, Surulere, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 26th day of October, 1981 at Ijebu Ode, Ogun State.

2. Eng. Simon O. Amadi (Otherwise known as Simon O. Amadi and Engineer Simon O. Amadi) late of 24, Andrews Crescent, Oke Aro Road, Iju Ishaga, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 23rd day of September, 2011 at Lagos.

3. Mrs Taibatu Anifowoshe (Otherwise known as Alhaja Taibat Anifowose) late of 42, Olori Street, Shogunle, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 4th day of December, 2009 at Lagos.

4. Pastor (Mrs) Olusola Omolara late of 324L Calabar Close, Egbin PHCN Plc Estate, Lagos state deceased who died intestate on the 13th day of July, 2011 at PHCN Clinic, Egbin, Lagos State.

5. Oshinlaja Shubomi (Otherwise known as Edward Oshilaja, Olasubomi Oshilaja and Olasubomi Edward Oshilaja) late of 11, Idris Daramola Street, Ikorodu, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 6th day of May, 2011 at General Hospital Ikorodu, Lagos state.

6. Lawrence Daniel late of 126/128, Ekoro Road, Abule Egba, Oko Oba Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 31st day of August, 2011 at Lagos.

7. Balogun Disu (Otherwise known as Balogun Disu Adio) late of 25, Karimu Street, Surulere, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 1st day of March, 2012 at Randle Hospital Surulere.

8. Mr Yaya Umoru (Otherwise known as Umoru Yaya) late of 222, Ipaja Road, Mulero Agege, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 31st day of May, 2012 at Lagos.

9. Ihenacho Gladys (Otherwise known as Gladys Ihenacho and Iheanacho Gladys) late of 9, Osanyintola Street, Ijaiye Ojokoro Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 19th day of June, 2012 at Lagos.

10. Mark Ogbonnaya (Otherwise known as Mark Ogbonna) late of No. 191, Adeleke Adedoyin Street, Victoria Island, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 5th day of October, 2011 at Lagos.

11. Pa Emmanuel Odogu (Otherwise known as Odogu Emmanuel) late of 13, Bakare Faro Street, Amukoko, Ajegunle, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 2nd day of November, 2009 at General Hospital Apapa.

12. Joseph Oyibo Tuomeru (Otherwise known as Mr Joseph Tuomeru) late of 11 Zone 4 Road Obada Estate Toll Gate Badagry deceased who died intestate on the 10th day of September, 2010 at Lagos.

13. Ishola Johnson late of 7, Showonuola Street, Agege, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 16th day of September, 2009 at Owo , Ondo state.

14. Mr Hezekiah Bright Ihunyere (Otherwise known as Bright Ihunyere) late of 23Rd V Close, Block 2 Flat 2, Festac Town, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 23rd day of April, 2009 at Lagos.

15. Mrs Senami Oke Josephine (Otherwise known as Josephine Abiodun, Senami Josephine Abiodun Oke, Mrs Abiodun Josephine Senami Oke, Mrs J.S.A.Oke and Mrs Abiodun Josephine S. Oke ) late of Flat 2, Block 24, Ojokoro Housing Estate Meiran Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 26th day of September, 2000 at Lagos.

16. Mrs Adebola Daodu (Otherwise known as Dawodu Adebola) late of Flat 7B, LBIC Bungalow Ijaiye Housing Estate Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 13th day of January, 2012 at Lagos.

17. Dele Adeniji late of 7, Dabiri Street, Lagos Island, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 28th day of July, 2007 at Lagos.

18. Okpala Augustin Chukwuma (Otherwise known as Mr Augustin Chukwuma Okpala ) late of 71, Ariyo Akinloye Street, Bucknor Ejigbo, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 28th day of December, 2011 at Anambra State 19. David Oluwadare Aladesiun (otherwise known as Oluwadare David ) late of 1B, Francis Adebayo Crescent Ayobo deceased who died intestate on the 4th day of May, 2012 at Lagos.

20. Augustina Okwulum David (Otherwise known as Augustina O. David and David Augustina) late of 41, Makanjuola Street, Orile deceased who died intestate on the 27th day of August, 2012 at Lagos.

21. Omowumi Bolaji Idowu (Otherwise known as Omowunmi Bolaji Idowu) late of 12, Alhaja Oreniwon Street, Abule Egba Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 27th day of March, 2010 at Lagos.

22. Oluwakemi Johnson Mr (otherwise known as Johnson Oluwakemi) late of 14, Oduwoga Street,, Maiden Orile Mile 12 , deceased who died intestate on the 19th day of August, 2012 at Lagos.

23. Olatunde Olubunmi Owolabi (otherwise known as Owolabi Olatunde) late of 33, Bajulaiye Road, Shomolu, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 7th day of April, 2006 at Lagos.

24. Oyebamiji Mojeed Adeyemi late of 12 , Itokun Road, Ikorodu, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 13th day of September, 2009 at Lagos.

25. Okoye Christian Nchetachukwu (Otherwise known as Okoye Christian Ncheta and Christian Nchetachukwu) late of 19, Awoniyi Elemo Ajao estate, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 28th day of April, 2012 at Lagos.

26. Osuolale Adedeji Joseph (Otherwise known as Adedeji Osuolale ) late of 5, Ayodele Street, Ikorodu, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 22nd day of August 2011 at Lagos.

27. Omoyemi Reuben Adebayo (Otherwise known as Mr Reuben Adebayo Omoyemi) late of 3, Ramani Street, Odo-Nla Ikorodu, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 10th day of August 2012 at Lagos.

28. Pa Philip Nnkebakwu Anyasi (otherwise known as Anyasi Nkebaku Philip) late of 2, Oni Close, Off Ilori street, Ijegun Ikotun Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 18th day of February, 2011 at Onitsha -Uku Asaba.

29. Engr. George Akanni Bamgboye (Otherwise known as Engineer George Akanni Bamgboye) late of 37, Church Street, Off Alafia Street, Mushin, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 16th day of September, 1993 at Lagos.

30. Mrs Ugochukwu Gladys late of 10, Oduko Street, Akowonjo Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 13th day of June 2010 at Lasuth.

31. Mrs Dorcas Olabimpe Omoniyi (Otherwise known as Omoniyi Dorcas Olabimpe) late of 37, Pipeline Road, Ikotun Ijegun, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 28th day of January, 2012 at Lagos.

32. Mr Samuel Adewole late of 4, Omolade Close, Alaso, Near AIT Kola Bus Stop Alagbado, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 22nd day of September, 2008 at General Hospital Ikeja.

33. Mrs Margaret Kosiba O. Ekenma (Otherwise known as Mrs Ekenma Margaret late of 29, Oludun Street, Off Ologun Junction Ijegun Ikotun deceased who died intestate on the 23rd day of November, 2007 at Lagos.

34. Olusegun Yakubu Abu (Otherwise known as Yakubu Olusegun Abu) late of 24, Akinwumi Street, Ifako Gbagada, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 1st day of June, 2011 at Lagos.

35. Balogun Munirat Adunni (Otherwise known as Alhaja Manurat Adunni Balogun ) late of 11, Ijaiye Street, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 23rd day of January, 1993 at Lagos.

36. Bello Raimi Adenuga late of 7, Rasheed Oyekan Street, Ketu, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 29th day of September, 1998 at Ijebu Ode 37. Ahaji Yekini Lawal (Otherwise known as Yekini Lawal) late of 11, Jimoh Balogun Street, Ikosi-Ketu, Lagos State deceased who died intestate on the 16th day of May, 2011 at Luth.

38. Chief Johnson Abosede Kuboye (Otherwise known as Kuboye Johnson Abosede) late of 32, Abosede Kuboye Crescent, Surulere, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 2nd day of May, 1993 at Lagos General Hospital.

39. Dixon Anthony Adesina (Otherwise known as Anthony Adesina Dixon) late of 22, Musili Street, Agege, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 24th day of April, 2012.

40. Mr Alokwem Linus Okoye (Otherwise known as Alokwem Okoye Livinus) late of No. 1, Edith Baddell Street, Off Christ the King Jakande Estate, Isolo, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 2nd day of May, 2002 at Igboukwu ,Anambra State.

41. Mr Okoko Sunday late of No. 3, Odenike Street, Abule Ijesha , Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 17th day of September, 2011 at Lagos.

42. Nick Uzoezie (Otherwise known as Ikechukwu Nze Uzoezie, Nichodemus , Uzoezie Nichodemus Ikechukwu) late of 12, Olokun Street, Okokomaiko Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 21st day of March, 2005 at Isolo General Hospital.

43. Sylvester Onyeachu Njoku late of 22, Otubu Lane Agric Ojo, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 25th day of February, 2012 at Fortis Hospital India.

44. Afolajuwon Olamide Kinoshi (Otherwise known as Miss Fola Kinoshi and Afolajuwon Kinoshi) late of Block 21, Flat 23, Alhaji Masha Road, Surulere, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 8th day of April, 2011 at Lagos.

45. Mrs Bajulaiye Olayemi Oluwagbenga (Otherwise known as Bajulaiye Olayemi ) late of 3, David Hudges Street, Ojodu, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 18th day of July, 2012 at Lasuth.

46. Jacob Olufemi Owolabi (Otherwise known as Owolabi Olatunde and Pillot ) late of 33, Bajulaiye Road Somolu Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 23rd day of July, 1997 at Lagos.

47. Mr Ogechi Okpara (Nee Unogu) (Otherwise known as Okpara Ogechi) late of House 38, S Close, 23 Road Festac Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 24th day of March, 2012 at Lagos.

48. Sanusi Fausat Abidemi (Otherwise known as Busari Sanusi Fausat) late of 2 Busari Lane Iju Ajuwon Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 11th day of March, 2012 at Lagos.

49. Mr Ibeji Chukwuma Josiah late of 12, Babatunde Ladeji Omole Phase I Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 18th day of September, 1998 at Lagos.

50. Mrs Eunice Mgborie Ibeji (Otherwise known as Ibeji Mgborie Eunice) late of 12, Babatunde Ladeji Omole Phase I deceased who died intestate on the 25th day of May, 1992 at Lagos.

51. Martha Ossai Bright (Otherwise known as Matha Bright Ossai) late of 3, Ore-Meji Street, Jah Micheal Bus Stop Badagry, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 17th day of December, 2011 52. Miss Adebayo Ajoke Olufunmilayo late of Block 36, Flat 2, Abesan Housing Estate Ipaja, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 13th day of March, 2012 at Lagos.

53. Mr Samuel Oluwatoyin late of 10 Olonade Street, Yaba, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 9th day of October, 2009 at Lagos.

54. Mr Kayode Okikiola late of 15, Abudu Salam Street, Iseri Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 20th day of March, 2012 at Lagos.

55. Mr Matthew Adelaja Akinsanya (otherwise known as Akinsaya Mathew Adelaja) late of 24, Olorunisola Street, Off Itire Road, Mushin, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 26th day of June, 1983.

56. Okuneye Risikat Oladunni (Otherwise known as Okuneye R. Oladunni) late of 5, Chris Ezeagwu Close, Ajegunle, Iranwo Ikorodu, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 18th day of July, 2012 at Lagos.

57. Mr Augustine Oladapo Coker (Otherwise known as Coker Oladapo) late of 18, Akinremi Street, Anifowose Ikeja, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 5th day of March, 2010 at Lagos.

58. Nwagbara Nkechi Chibuzo (Miss) (Otherwise known as Nwagbara Nkechi and Nkechi Nwagbara) late of 75, Alhaja Abass Street, Ogudu, Ojota, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 6th day of March, 2004 at Lagos.

59. Mrs Esther Abike Sanyaolu (Otherwise known as Madam Abike Ogunyola) late of 61, Olorunkemi Street, Lad Lak Pedro, Bariga, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 10th day of August, 2000 at Lagos.

60. Ajala Muraina Olalekan late of 4, Adewumi Street, Meiran Agbado Ijaiye, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 27th day of September, 2012 at Lagos.

61. Akobundu Promise late of 25, Igando Road, Okota, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 24th day of January, 2011 at Lagos.

62. Mrs Racheal Toluwalase Bamodu Ajayi late of 23, Kosobameji Street, Off Luth Road, Mushin Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 8th day of September, 2010 at Lagos State.

63. Mr Eboka Olasunkanmi Nkemcho late of 85, Akinajo Street, Ajuwon, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 13th day of June 2011 at Lagos.

64. Somefun Abudu David (Otherwise known as Somefun David Abdul Raheem) late of 44, Ajiboye Street, Pressure Bus Stop, Agege, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 10th day of December, 2010 at Lagos.

65. Daniel Oyelayo Agboola (Otherwise known as Mr Daniel Agboola) late of 1, Olorunfemi Street, Kaka-Igesu, Ayobo, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 11th day of October, 2012 at Lagos.

66. Adebola Bimbola Lateef late of 10, Okubanjo Close, Araromi Iyana Ipaja, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 20th day of August, 2009 at Lagos.

67. Lawrence Onwazo (otherwise known as Mr Lawrence Onwuazo and Mr Lawrence Onwuazor ) late of Close 13, House 8, Satelite Town, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 7th day of March, 2010 at Lagos.

68. Adams Alaoye Trevor late of 14, Romay Estate, Lekki, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 6th day of March, 2010 at Lagos.

69. Aderibigbe Adeniyi Ajao late of Plot 74, Michael Otedola Crescent, GRA, Ikeja Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 23rd day of October, 2005 at Lagos.

70. Mr Attai Esseme Charles late of No. 53, Itoga Road, Badagry, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 27th day of June, 2012 at General Hospital Badagry.

71. Okeleke Ikemefuna Onianwa late of 25, Alfanda Street, Mushin, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 14th day of July, 2011 at Lagos.

72. Momodu Anthony Oseni late of 1, Olumide Street, Oke Ota Ona, Ikorodu, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 4th day of February, 2011 at Lagos.

73. Emmanuel Wilson Akpan (Otherwise known as E.W.Akpan) late of 8, Anthony Street, Aiyetoro Ijanikin Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 30th day of October, 2011 at Warri.

74. Mrs Helen Obi late of 42, Commercial Avenue Sabo Yaba, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 18th day of December, 2011 at Aguda, Surulere, Lagos.

75. Mrs Florence Iheme (Otherwise known as Mrs Florence Ihieme) late of 5th Avenue C.I. Close, Block 3, Flat 12, Festac Town, Lagos deceased who died intestate on the 19th day of May, 2010 at Golden Cross Hospital.

76. Chukwumah Blessing (Mrs) late of No. 3, Sylvanus Chuks Close, Off Arefun Street, Ayobo, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 13th day of March, 2012 at Lasuth.

77. Sunmola Taiwo late of 32, Akodu Street, Off Luth Road, Mushin, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 4th day of April, 2012 at Lagos.

78. Ibuzo Alexander Okaka (Otherwise known as Alexander Ibuzo ) late of No. 7, Sawyer Close, Gbagada, Lagos, deceased who died intestate on the 26th day of November, 2012 at Lagos.

NAMES OF APPLICANT APPLYING FOR THE GRANT

1. Mrs Grace Olubukola Okuyiga of 9, Ajayi Street, Mende Maryland, Lagos, Mrs Modupe Ade Ogunowo of Ogun State School of Midwifery Ijebu Ode Ogun State , Mr Folorunso Oyesango Wawa of 33, Lagos Street, Sabongari, Zaria, Kaduna State , and Mr Akinpelumi Sangowawa of 5, Isagunse Street, Ijebu Mushin Ogun State four of the children of the said deceased.

2. Mrs Amadi Lotanna Theresa, Mr Ikenna Amadi and Mr Chieloka Amadi both of 24, Andrews Crescent Oke Aro Road, Iju Ishaga, Lagos, widow and two of the children respectively of the said deceased.

3. Mrs Ganiyat Mustapha (Nee Anifowose ) and Mr Anifowose Lukman both of 42, Olori Street, Shogunle, Lagos, two children of the said deceased.

4. Pastor Nicholas O. Ibezim and Mr Uchechukwu C. Ibezim both of 324L, Calabar Close, Egbin , PHCN Plc Estate, Lagos, widower and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

5. Mrs Tosin Oshilaja and Miss Maria Eniola Oshilaja both of 9, Idris Daramola Street, Ikorodu, Lagos State widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

6. Professional Executors Trustees and Investment Ltd (Trust Coy) of 30, Ibezim Obiajulu Street, Surulere, Lagos, the trust company appointed by the family.

7. Mrs Taibat Balogun, Miss Oluwaseun A. Balogun and Mr Olawale Ibrahim Balogun all of 25, Karimu Street, Suruelre, Lagos, widow and two of the children respectively of the said deceased.

8. Mrs Memunatu Umoru and Miss Nofisat Umoru both of 222, Ipaja Mulero Agege, Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

9. Ihenacho Philian of 9, Osanyintola Street, Ijaiye Ojokoro and Mrs Christopher Oguike of 15, Oregun Road, Oregun Ikeja, Lagos, widower and brother respectively of the said deceased.

10. Grace Oyirichi Ogbonna and Chidinma Ntachi Mbah both of 11, Ramotu Oluwakemi Street, Medina Gbagada, Lagos, sister and cousin respectively of the said deceased.

11. Mr Benson Akpors Odogu and Cynthia Odogu both of 43, Apon-Olorunfemi Street, Igando, Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased.

12. Esther Tuomeru and Johnshon Tuomeru both of No. 11, Zone 4 Road Obada Estate Toll Gate Badagry , widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

13. Mrs Clara Ishola and Mr Seyi Ishola both of 7, Showonuola Street, Agege, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

14. Evans O. Ihunyere of 23 Road, V Close, Block 2, Flat 2, Festac , Lagos, and Ugochukwu I. Ihunyere of 22 Road G Close, Block 2 , Flat 12, Festac Town, Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased.

15. Omolara M. Simplice (Mrs) and Mosun Oyeniyi (Mrs) both of 29, Oil Mill Street, Off Bamgbose Street, Lagos, two children of the said deceased.

16. Rasaq Akintunde Daodu of 8, Adebodun Williams Street, Ogudu GRA Ojota and Folarin Daodu of 7B LBIC Bungalow Ijaiye Housing Estate Agege, Lagos widower and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

17. Miss Christianah Kemi Adeniji and Mr Olufemi Adeniji both of 7, Dabiri Street, Lagos Island Lagos, two children of the said deceased.

18. Emmanuel Okpala and Marcel Chideluo both of 71, Ariyo Akinloye Street, Bucknor Ejigbo, Lagos brother and cousin respectively of the said deceased.

19. Timilehin Oluwadare and Lady Evangelist Mary Temitola Oluwadare both of 13, Francis Adebayo crescent, Ayobo , Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

20. Mr Ezekiel Okwulum and Miss Anna Okwulum both of 41, Makanjuola Street, Orile Lagos, brother and sister respectively of the said deceased.

21. Daramola Sunday Felix and Dolapo Daramola both of 12, Alhaji Oreniwon Street, Abule Egba , Lagos, widower and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

22. Mrs Funmilayo Olayinka Johnson and Emmanuel Oyindamola Johnson both of 14, Oduwoga street, Menden Orile Mile 12, Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

23. Abiodun Abosede Pillot and Temitope Oluwatoyin Olutimehin both of 33, Bajulaiye Road, Shomolu, Lagos, two sisters of the said deceased.

24. Mrs Oyebamiji Modinat Adewunmi of 12, Itokun Road, Ikorodu, Lagos and Mr Oyebamiji Ismail Adeniyi of 5, Ashiawu Lawal Street, Ikorodu, Lagos, widow and brother respectively of the said deceased.

25. Abuchi Okoye and Osita Okoye both of 19, Awoniyi Elemo Ajao Estate, Lagos, two brothers of the said deceased.

26. Kayode Osuolale and Gbenga A. Osuolale both of 5, Ayodele street, Ikorodu, Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased.

27. Seun Omoyemi and Toyosi Omoyemi both of 54, Zone 6, Agoro Nig. Brewries Ibadan two of the chidren of the said deceased.

28. Madam Anthonia Adakwo Anyasi of Anyasi family comp. Onitcha Uku and Micheal Okwudili Anyasi of 2, Oni Close, off Ilori Street, Ijegun Ikotun, Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

29. Robert Adetokunbo Bamgboye, Georgina Olanrewaju Bamgboye and Felicia Aderemi Bamgboye all of 37, Church Street, Off Alafia Street, Mushin, Lagos, three of the children of the said deceased.

30. Mr Emmanuel Ugochukwu and Miss Ojilere Loveline both of 10, Oduko Street, Akowonjo, Lagos, widower and sister respectively of the said deceased.

31. Akatah Yeside Foluso, Omoniyi Olugbenga Bankole and Omoniyi Temitope Foluke all of 37, Pipeline Road, Ijegun, Ikotun, Lagos, three children of the said deceased.

32. Mrs Aderanti Opadeji, Mr Adesoji Adewole both of 15, Lawal Street, Isheri Olofin, Lasu Road, Lagos, Mr Adeniyi Adewole of 33, Oluwakemi Street, Onipanu and Mr Adesegun Adewole of 15, Abeokuta Street, Palmgrove , Lagos, four of the children of the said deceased.

33. Rowland Ikechukwu Ekenma of 45, Shitta Street, Ijegun, Ikotun, Lagos and Victoria Chiaka Ekenma of 2nd Avenue 22RD Block 3, Flat 5, Festac Town, Lagos, two of the chidren of the said deceased.

34. Muritala Gbenga Abu and Isiaka Olumide Abu both of 20 Akinwunmi Street, Ifako Gbagada, Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased 35. Alhaji Fatai Alade Balogun and Mrs Ganiat Idowu Idris both of 11, Eniola Street, Surulere, Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased.

36. Adenuga T. Adeneye and Bello Modiu Adebisi both of 7, Rasheed Oyekan Street, Ketu, Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased.

37. Mr Lukmon Lawal and Mr Ahmed Lawal both of No. 11, Jimoh Balogun Street, Ikosi, Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased 38. Mrs Grace Olufunke Fadayomi and Mr Babatunde Kuboye both of 32, Abosede Kuboye Crescent, Surulere, Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased.

39. Theresa Atinuke Dixon, Anthony Olayinka Dixon, Mrs Henrietta Olufolake Omotara and Miss Matilda Aderonke Dixon all of 22, Musili Street, Agege, Lagos, widow and three of the children respectively of the said deceased.

40. Mrs Cynthia Juliet Alokwem and Obinna Sydney Alokwem both of No. 1, Edith Baddell Street, Off Christ the King, Jakande Estate, Isolo, Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

41. Mrs Eteh Aladi Esther and Mr Godday Okoko both of No. 3, Odenike Street, Abule Ijesha Lagos State two of the children of the said deceased.

42. Theresa Uzoezie, Uchenna Uzoezie and Obinna Uzoezie all of No. 12, Olokun Street, Okoko Maiko ,Lagos, widow and two of the children respectively of the said deceased, 43. Agnes Ifeyinwa Njoku of No. 22, Otubu Lane, Agric , Ojo, Lagos and Eric-Don Abuachi of DPR No. 7, Kofo Abayomi Victoria Island, Lagos, widow and cousin respectively of the said deceased.

44. Mrs Esther Oludotun Kinoshi and Mr Oluyomi Adetokunbo Kinoshi both of Block 21, Flat 23, Alhaji Masha Road, Surulere, Lagos, mother and brother respectively of the said deceased.

45. Bajulaiye Adeyanju (Engr.) of 15B, Church Street, Ojodu Berger, Lagos, and Bajulaiye Oluwabukola (Miss) of 3, David Hudges Street, Ojodu, Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased.

46. Abiodun Abosede and Temitope Oluwatoyin Olutimileyin both of 33, Bajulaiye Road, Shomolu, Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased.

47. Emmanuel Okpara and Mrs Obiageri Umeh (Nee Unogu) both of House 38, S Close 23 Road Festac Lagos, widower and sister respectively of the said deceased.

48. Morufat Jinadu (Nee Busari) and Muritala Busari both of 2, Busari Lane Iju Ajuwon , two of the children of the said deceased.

49. Mrs Nwamaka Peter Obiagwu and Joy Chukwujindu both of 33, Eleganza Shopping Arcade Alausa Ikeja, two children of the said deceased.

50. Mrs Nwamaka P. Obiagwu and Joy Chukwujindu both of 33, Eliganza Shopping Arcade Ikeja, Lagos, two children of the said deceased.

51. Elvis Ossah Drama of Chilaveat Compound Badagry and Mary Bright of 4, Isha Jubril Street, Badagry , widower and sister respectively of the said deceased.

52. Mrs Adebayo Abigeal of Block 622, Flat 6, Abesan Housing Ipaja, Lagos and Mr Adebayo Bankole of 16, Lisabi Palmgrove Lagos, mother and brother respectively of the said deceased.

53. Mrs Titilayo Samuel and Hassan Taofik Oladele both of 10, Olonade Street, Yaba, Lagos, widow and brother respectively of the said deceased.

54. Funmilayo Okikiola and Emmanuel Okikiola both of 2, Kajola Street, Alhaji Ede Igando Lagos, two children of the said deceased.

55. Mr Gilbert O. Akinsanya of 75, Itire Road, Mushin, Lagos, and Mrs Dorcas Olufunke Adelaja of 7, Oluwaseyi Street, Agodo Egbe, Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased.

56. Sanwiu Olugbenga Okuneye and Miss Shakirat Olujumoke Okuneye both of 5, Chris Ezeagwu Close, Ajegunle, Iranwo Ikorodu, Lagos, widower and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

57. Mr Adeolu Olatoye Coker and Mr Olawunmi Adelaja Coker both of 18, Akinremi Street, Anifowose, Ikeja, Lagos, two children of the said decased.

58. Mrs Joy Atim Nwagbara and Onyesom Chibuzo Nwagbara both of 75, Alhaja Abass Street, Ogudu, Ojota, Lagos, mother and brother respectively of the said deceased.

59. Dr Kolawole Oyebola George and David Adio Oyebola both of 61, Olorunkemi Street, Lad-Lak Pedro, Bariga, Lagos, two children of the said deceased.

60. Ajala Oladapo Hammed and Adeyeye Ronke both of 4, Adewumi Street, Meiran, Agbado Ijaiye, Lagos, one of the children and niece respectively of the said deceased.

61. Mrs Beaty Promise and Mr Akobundu Samuel Abiodun both of 8, Ojo Road, Apapa, Lagos, widow and brother respectively of the said deceased.

62. Damilola Banmodu Ajayi and Busayo Banmodu Ajayi both of 23, Kosobameji Street, Luth Road, Mushin , Lagos two of the children of the said deceased 63. Mr Joseph Eboka and Eboka Opeyemi Nnamdi both of 85, Akinaso Street, Ajuwon, Lagos, father and brother respectively of the said deceased.

64. Adewale Somefun of 1, Somefun David Street, Shagamu, Lagos, and Adeyinka Somefun of 44, Ajiboye Street, Pressure Bus Stop, Agege, Lagos, two children of the said deceased.

65. Risikat Olanike Agboola and Deborah Olubunmi Agboola both of 1, Olorunfemi Street, Kaka Igesu, Ayobo, Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased 66. Bolaji Hammed Adebola and Boladale Abiodun Adebola both of 46, Odusanya Awitedu Street, Pipe Line Aboru and Kikelomo Omolabake of 24, Victor Olaiya Street, Iyana Ipaja, Lagos, widow and two of the children respectively of the said deceased.

67. Mrs Carol U. Onwazo and Mabel Chizoba Jibunoh both of Close 13, House 8, Satelite Town, Lagos widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

68. Mrs Izarene Aret-Adams and Enaikele Ndiomu both of No. 14, Romay Estate Lekki, Lagos, mother and sister respectively of the said deceased.

69. Adebisi Aderibigbe and Adeyemi Aderibigbe both of Plot 74, Michael Otedola Crescent, GRA Ikeja, Lagos widow and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

70. Mrs Attai Juliana Esseme and Mr Anietie Attai Esseme both of Seriki's Compound, Marina Badagry, Lagos, widow and one of the children respectively of the said decased.

71. Okeleke Ifeanyi Chukwu and Okeleke Nnamdi both of 25, Alfanda Street, Mushin, Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased.

72. Momodu Joshua and Momodu Agbon both of 1, Olumide Street, Oke Ota Ona Ikorodu, Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased.

73. Elizabeth E. Akpan and Wilson E. Akpan both of 8, Anthony Street, Aiyetoro Ijanikin, Lagos, widow and one of the children of the said deceased.

74. Mr Anthony Obi of 42, Commercial Avenue Sabo Yaba, Lagos and Leonard C. Odachi of 7, Afolabi Shibiri Ojo, Lagos, widower and brother respectively of the said decased.

75. Mr Ezenwa C. Iheme, Mr Nnaemeka E. Iheme and Miss Adaeze A. Iheme all of 5th Avenue C.I.Close Block, Flat 12, Festac Town, Lagos, widow and two children respectively of the said deceased.

76. Sylvanus Obi Chukwumah and Solomon Ifeanyi Chukwu Chukwumah both of 3, Sylvanus Chuks Off Aregun Street, Ayobo, Lagos widower and one of the children respectively of the said deceased.

77. Sunmola Oluwakemi and Sunmola Oluwaniyi both of 32, Akodu Street, Off Luth Road, Mushin, Lagos, two of the children of the said deceased.

78. Douglas Ibuzo of 11, Ayodeji Oyinlola Street, Lagos, and Kenneth Ibuzo of No. 2, Salvation Close, Portharcourt , Lagos two of the children of the said deceased.

G.A SAFARI (MR.) PROBATE REGISTRAR

57

THE NATION FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2013

NEWS Senate seeks urgent repairs of Third Mainland, Second Niger bridges

Presidency: Suswam warns campaigners

B

•Senator Tinubu: we can’t be indifferent to citizens’ fears

T

HE Senate yesterday adopted two motions on the need for the Federal Government to repair the Third Mainland Bridge in Lagos and the Niger Bridge in Onitsha, Anambra State.

On the Third Mainland Bridge, the Senate mandated its Committee on Works, in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Works, to carry out an in-depth investigation on the state of the bridge to enable experts repair it.

The senators also urged the Federal Government to inspect all its bridges over water to save them from further deterioration and collapse.

The Senate urged the Federal Ministry of Works to reinforce, repairs and rehabilitate the Niger Bridge to forestall the tragic consequences of its likely collapse.

It also urged the Federal Ministry of Works to take work on the second Niger

From Onyedi Ojiabor, Assistant Editor

Bridge before the end of this quarter.

The motion on Third Mainland Bridge, entitled: Urgent need to investigate the imminent collapsed of Third Mainland Bridge in Lagos, was sponsored

by Senator Gbenga Ashafa (Lagos East) and 55 others; Niger Bridge, entitled: Immediate action on the second Niger Bridge Project, was sponsored

by Senator Hope Uzodinma (Imo West) and 39 others.

In his lead debate, Ashafa said there have been complaints of shifting and vibrations on the Third Mainland Bridge.

The senator noted that a report by a company, which has experiences in underwater survey, indicated that the underwater metal casing, housing the concrete piles on which the bridge stands, have rusted.

He said the surveyors explained that the rust accounts for the vibration experienced in some portions of the bridge which also led to the closure of the bridge for repairs between July 7 and October 30, last year, by the Federal Ministry of Works.

Ashafa noted that Prof. J. H. T. Kim, head of the Concrete Structural Engineering Laboratory, Yousei University, Seoul Korea, was on a research last December and conducted an underwater examination of the structures holding the bridge.

The Korean was said to have reported that the damage to the structure were worse than what he had been briefed on.

He said there were indications that the stretch of the Third Mainland Bridge between Adeniji Adele, Adekunle and Oworonshoki could collapse.

•Senate President David Mark

Senator Oluremi Tinubu (Lagos Central) said the seventh Senate cannot afford to be indifferent to the fears of Nigerians and the potential loss of lives.

She said the Third Mainland Bridge, which is about 11.8 kilometres and inaugurated in 1990, serves hundreds of Nigerians from various parts of the country.

The senator said besides the concerns expressed by many Nigerians Dr. Kim’s warning should also not be dismissed.

Senator Tinubu said: “If we truly value citizens’ lives, the prevailing concerns about a critical infrastructure, such as the Third Mainland Bridge, cannot be dismissed with a wave of the hand.”

JTF arrests three suspects over attack on Bayero

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HREE prime suspects in the attack on the Emir of Kano, Alhaji Ado Bayero, were yesterday arrested and detained by operatives of the Joint Task Force (JTF) in Kano.

The arrest followed JTF’s continued raids to rid the state of criminals.

The suspects were arrested when the task force discovered

From Kolade Adeyemi, Kano

a bomb factory at Chiranchi, Kano.

The weapons allegedly found at the bomb factory, which has been demolished by men of the JTF, are assorted arms, such as four AK 47 assault rifles, among others.

Details of the raids on flashpoints and hideouts of

suspected Boko Haram members were sketchy at press time yesterday.

STF spokesman Capt Iwediche Iweha declined to comment when he was contacted on the incident.

He said it was too early to make a statement on the operations of the JTF in the circumstance, adding that the task force would issue an official

Travellers groan as youths block Onitsha/Owerri road

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HOUSANDS of commuters were yesterday trapped on the busy Onitsha/Owerri Expressway when aggrieved youths from Amiri community, in Oru West Local Government Area of Imo State, protested alleged marginalisation of their area by the state government.

The protesters, who dressed in war regalia and carried weapons, ignored the pleas of the travellers to open the road.

The youths demanded the resignation of Governor Rochas Okorocha for allegedly failing to keep his promises to the community.

A similar incident occurred on the same route last week when a neighbouring community AwoOmamma, in the same local government - barricaded the road during a protest on alleged infrastructure decay in the area.

The protesters also ignored threats by security agents to open the road.

They descended on ada-

From Okodili Ndidi, Owerri

mant truck drivers who attempted to drive through the road block.

Speaking with The Nation, one of the youths, who gave his name simply as Rocky, said the residents had endured what he called the antics of the state government for a long time while the community suffered under severe erosion.

He said: “Our road has been washed away and the rains are gradually coming.

We can hardly go to our villages because the roads are no longer accessible. So, we cannot take that anymore.

Okorocha should come out here and award the construction of Amiri Road today or nothing.

“The governor, in one of his visits to the community, during a church service, promised to award the road contract. But one year after, we have not seen anything or heard from him.”

The leader of the youths, Mr. Charles Udoji, urged the

governor to resign because of what he called his “promise and fail” style of governance.

Udoji said: “We have suffered great neglect under the present administration.

The only road leading to Amiri has been cut off by erosion and we can’t visit our village anymore. Okorocha should either award the road today or face more protests.”

But Information Commissioner Chinedu Offor berated the protesters.

The commissioner said the Okorocha administration has started several projects across the state.

He added: “I doubt if the youths are from the community. That’s because there is no community in the state that does not have one or more projects that is either ongoing or has been completed. So, no one has any justifiable reason to protest. This administration has done more than any other in terms of infrastructure development.”

Imo community barricades NNDC office

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NDIGENES of Umudike, an oil producing community in Ohaji/Egbema Local Government Area of Imo State, yesterday barricaded the state office of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) over alleged sluggish handling of a road contract the commission awarded in 2010.

The protesters stormed the agency’s office located on the Port Harcourt Road in Owerri, the state capital.

The protesters said they

From Okodili Ndidi, Owerri

wanted to compel the commission to revoke the contract for the building of a major road in the community and reaward same to a more competent contractor.

When The Nation visited the commission’s office, is workers were prevented from entering the premises.

They also refused to speak with reporters on the matter.

Addressing reporters in Owerri, the protesters’ spokesman Cleophas Eburue

alleged that the firm handling the project abandoned it after collecting 15 per cent mobilisation fee of N210 million from the NDDC. According to him, the company has not shown any commitment to the completion of the project.

He said: “Since the contract was awarded four years ago, nothing meaningful has been done.

Except the spoilt caterpillar that was abandoned in the site, there is nothing to show that the company is doing anything on the road.”

statement after its investigation.

Some gunmen, suspected to be members of Boko Haram, shot and killed two policemen.

The third victim was injured.

The Nation gathered that following the attack at a JTF checkpoint, operatives of the squad have been combing the state capital and its environs for suspects.

Six people died when some gunmen attacked the convoy of Alhaji Bayero in Kano.

ENUE State Governor Gabriel Suswam has warned those campaigning for him to contest higher elective office in 2015 to desist.

The governor spoke yesterday in Makurdi, the state capital, at the presentation of official cars to the 23 deputy chairmen and leaders of the local government legislative councils.

Suswam said he wished to concentrate on governing the state, adding that he would not like to be distracted by the campaigns for future political office.

He said: “Those who want me to become President or whatever else, the time is not ripe. They should wait till next year. Do not distract me because of 2015.”

The governor frowned at

From Uja Emmanuel, Makurdi

the series of campaigns by those planning to succeed him as governor, noting that it is too early for such campaigns.

Suswam said the campaigns are causing distractions to his administration.

He warned that his administration would take punitive action, if it discovers that government officials are involved in the campaigns.

“If any government official wants to campaign for governorship, he should resign his appointment,” he said.

The governor said the cars for the deputy chairmen and leaders of local government legislative councils would enhance their performance.

Dakingari signs 2013 Appropriation Bill into law

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EBBI State Governor Saidu Dakingari yesterday signed into law this year’s Appropriation Bill. The state 2013 budget into law amidst fun and pleasantries which political pundits in the state described as good omen for the state in the fiscal year.

Expressing appreciation over what he called a thorough job done by the members of the House of Assembly, the governor promised that this year’s budget would at least attain 80 per cent implementation.

The governor hailed the lawmakers for the speedy passage of the budget and assured that his administration would account for every kobo it would spend at the end of the fiscal year.

Deputy Speaker Garba Muhammed Bena, who representted Speaker Aminu Habbib Musa Jega, said the Assembly did a thorough job on the budget following the discrepancies it discovered in the figures.

He explained that the Assembly discovered that this year’s budget was N125billion instead of the N114 billion presented to the House in November, last year.

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THE NATION FRIDAY FEBRUARY 8, 2013

NEWS

Pensioners cry out for entitlements ETIRED prison officials have lamented the non-payment of their pensions and gratuities.

They urged President Goodluck Jonathan to prevail on the Pensions Commission (PENCOM) and the Premium Pensions Limited to act fast in paying them their entitlement now they are still alive.

A statement signed by the leader of the pensioners in Kogi State, Musa Egbunu, said they are facing health challenges as a result of the nonpayment of their terminal benefits.

Egbunu, in the statement, noted that PENCOM and Premium Pension Ltd have been withholding two third of their benefits, which, according to him, was calculated on the Consolidated Para-military Salary Structure (CONPASS).

R

From Muhammad Bashir, Lokoja

He said PENCOM, against the laid-down rules, decided to pay them on HAPAS, which was lower, leaving out a bulk of the money approved by the government.

Egbunu said while the two bodies have refused to implement salary increase by the Federal Government to the paramilitary since July 2010, they have also ignored a letter dated August 5, 2010, from the Salaries and Wages Commission directing them to pay the money.

He said it was regrettable that their children were being withdrawn from schools because of their inability to pay school fees.

Egbunu enjoined President Jonathan to prevail on

•Jonathan

the pension bodies to pay their pensions and gratuities.

Said he: “PENCOM and Premium Pension Limited have refused to release the remaining two-third of our benefits to us. We are using this medium to crave the indulgence of Mr. President and the National Assembly to urge them to pay us our entitlements when we are alive, to enable us pay our children’s school fees.”

Court refuses FAAN’s prayer to restrain AIC FEDERAL High Court in Lagos has refused a prayer by the Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) for an order restraining AIC Limited from tampering with a disputed land at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos.

FAAN and AIC have been locked in a dispute over the piece of land, which AIC claimed was concessioned to it for 50 years by the Federal Government by virtue of an agreement signed by FAAN and AIC on February 17, 1998.

A

A

By Eric Ikhilae

FAAN seeks to reclaim possession of the land, citing security reasons.

On Tuesday, at the resumed hearing of a suit filed

by FAAN against AIC, Mr. Justice Mohammed Idris refused an oral application by FAAN’s lawyer, Oluwole Awe, for an interim order against AIC. The judge held that it would be tidy to hear both parties on a pending application for interlocutory injunction filed by FAAN. Earlier, Awe told the court about his pending application for an interlocutory in-

junction, which he said had been served on the defendant, and sought to move it.

AIC’s lawyer Prof Alfred Kasumu (SAN) objected, arguing that his client was served last Friday. He sought time to file his response and other necessary processes.

It was at that point that Awe urged the court to make an order of interim injunction against AIC. A request the judge refused.

Justice Idris adjourned till February 18 when parties are to argue the application for an injunction brought by FAAN.

Firm threatens to demolish telecoms’ facilities

FIRM, Gbaruka Resources, has threatened to demolish MTN Nigeria’s facilities in the Niger Delta region over its failure to honour the contractual agreements it reached with Procomtel Limited, one of its contractors.

A copy of a petition endorsed by the Managing Director, Gbaruka Resources, Comrade Charles Taylor and addressed to the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, MTN Nigeria, alleged that following the huge debt MTN is owing Procomtel Ltd, its sub-contractor, it can no longer service the bank facilities it obtained to execute the job.

“After fruitless efforts to get our wages from Procomtel Limited, we have resolved to return to doing a little bit of what we knew best before going gentle as a corporate outfit. We shall therefore embark on the following if Procomtel Limited does not pay us our money on or before February 15: Begin the demolition of MTN Nigeria installations in Rivers State, which Procomtel Limited engaged our service to erect; begin the demolition of MTN installations in Baylesa and Delta states and extend our demolition to other states in the Niger Delta next month,” the petition, which was copied to the Presidency, JTF Commander Niger Delta, National Security Adviser, Inspector-General of Police, Director-General, State Security Service (SSS) and Procomtel Limited, reads.

Reacting to the threat, MTN said Gbaruka Resources was unknown to it, wondering why it would be held liable for the debt allegedly owed it by Procomtel.

The General Manager, Corporate Affairs, MTN, Funmi Omogbenigun, who responded through e-mail to The Nation’s enquiries, said only Procomtel was engaged by the telco as a contractor.

By Lucas Ajanaku

She said: “We do not have any direct contractual relationship with Gbaruka Resources as we do not know them. We understand that they are sub-contractors of Procomtel, a company that did work for MTN. MTN cannot be responsible for Procomtel’s indebtedness to its sub- contractors. Such a situation is unknown to law or commercial practice.

“With respect to Procomtel, the company was engaged as a site build contractor with the following terms of reference: To carry out specific work as may be required by MTN; Upon completion of the work, Procomtel shall advise MTN’s representatives, who shall verify work status and issue Certificates of Completion where work has been carried out in accordance with MTN’s requirements; Upon the issuance of the Certificates of Completion, Procomtel shall forward invoices to MTN for requisite payments to be made; and In the event of delays, non-compliance or non-performance, the contract between the parties allows MTN to take over any job, which ought to have been performed by Procomtel and invoice Procomtel for the cost of same.”

According to her, MTN suffered losses arising from Procomtel’s delays and failures in job execution, adding that the telco had to complete the job for which the firm was seeking payment.

She said: “MTN suffered losses occasioned

by Procomtel’s delays and failures. To mitigate against same, MTN, at its own expense, procured the completion of some services, which ought to have been performed by Procomtel. This formed part of the contractual terms between the parties and in such instances, Procomtel could not have been entitled to receive payments for services not rendered.”

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THE NATION FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2013

NEWS Continued from page 1

last night in anticipation of Chime’s arrival in the Coal City.

Sources said Chime was holed up in his room at Transcorp Hilton where access to the governor was restricted.

On his arrival, Chime was said to have been taken under tight security to a private house. He later relocated to the 10th floor of the Transcorp Hilton.

A source, who pleaded not to be named, said: “The governor chose to come into the country quietly. He does not want fanfare at all because of issues surrounding his health.

“Initially, he wanted to stay in a private house before the choice of Transcorp Hilton. He is in good health.”

The source said: “It is normal to strengthen security to allow the governor to rest for a while.”

The Save Enugu Group, in a statement by Maxi Okwu Ikenecheoha II, Chief Willy Ezeugwu, and Igbonekwu Ogazimora, said there had been much noise over Chime’s health because it was not properly handled.

It said: “Save Enugu Group received with joy the informal news of the return of Governor Sullivan Chime into Nigeria in the wee hours of this morning. We are reliably informed that Governor Chime arrived at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport Abuja on a British Airways flight from London Heathrow and moved to the Enugu Lodge in Abuja.

“We note that this event is taking place exactly one month after we first sounded the alarm on his prolonged and unexplained absence.

“We acclaim this as falling

Chime in Abuja hotel within desired responsive action of leaders in a democracy.

“If the further information on the frail condition of the Governor is reliable, we wish to state that Governor Chime did not deserve being hustled out of ‘gainful stay’ in good health institutions if the right things were done first and before questions arose.

“In that respect, we, as other good people of Enugu State, stand to hold those responsible for primitive lies and needless cover-ups responsible.

“We wish our governor well and full recovery.”

Residents of Enugu and supporters of the governor are keeping vigil at the Enugu Airport to witness his arrival today.

Government House sources hinted that the governor would like to arrive in Enugu without any ceremony.

According to the source, the governor intends to quietly arrive Enugu and resume duty.

“Those waiting for him at the airport may be disappointed as he may decide to return by road,” said the source.

The source, a top government official, said the governor, after a brief stay in his office on arrival, would immediately go round to inspect some projects in Enugu.

But his supporters were yesterday insisting on rousing reception.

Enugu went agog yesterday as the news of Chime’s return was broken.

There were noticeable traffic gridlocks around the seat of government in Independence Layout.

The Conference of Nigerian Political Parties (CNPP) ex-

pressed delight and solidarity at the safe return of the governor.

The CNPP, in a statement after its monthly meeting, expressed gratitude to Acting Governor Sunday Onyebuchi, members of the state executive and the legislature “for their support and contributions in keeping Enugu working while the governor was away”.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has expressed gratitude to the people of Enugu State for praying for Chime.

National Publicity Secretary Mr Olisa Metuh, in a statement, said the peoples’ prayer for the governor showed that they appreciated him and his good work.

“We thank the good people of Enugu State, and indeed, all Nigerians whose prayers ensured the successful return of the governor.

“We daresay that the love shown to the governor by all and sundry during his period of incapacitation is a clear indication that our people appreciate the good work of the governor,’’ Metuh said.

He expressed confidence that the governor would consolidate on the tremendous achievements of his administration, now that he is back to work.

Metuh added that the party’s leadership received with joy the news of the governor‘s return and thanked God for restoring his health.

He also thanked functionaries of the State Government and the state PDP officers for their loyalty and commitment to the party’s ideals while the governor was away.

Agencies hold back govt’s N8.8tr, says report Continued from page 4

solidated Revenue Fund and report to the Finance Committee within three months”.

The shortfall of remittances of some of the agencies are: Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC)-N6.1trillion; Federal Capital Territory (FCT)-N7.7b; Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN-N45.5b; Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria (FAAN)-N6.9b; Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA)-N1.4b;

National Agency for Food, Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC)-N1b; Nigerian Port Authority (NPA)-N11.1b; Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC)-N3.3b; Nigerian Broadcasting Commission (NBC)-N211.7m; Federal Mortgage Bank (FMBN)N300.4m; West African Examination Council (WAEC)N2.5b; National Sports Commission (NSC)-N3.7m; Standards Organization of Nigeria (SON)-N252.7m; Federal Road

Safety Commission (FRSC)N410.9m; Federal Housing Authority (FHA)-N221.2m; Nigeria Shippers CouncilN6.4m; Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC)N8.8b; Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA)N3.6b; Industrial Training Fund (ITF)-N4b; Corporate Affairs Commission.

(CAC)-N2b; Bank of Industry (BoI)-N3b; and Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB)-N1.4b.

2015: Senators, Reps hail move to kick out PDP Continued from page 4

ties, disciplined ones and none that takes for granted its powers to win elections.

“Election should be for those who are prepared and for the parties to have democracy within them.

“This way you have two competitive ones rather than one dominant and the others just there,’’ he said.

Aliyu, in a statement, added that “alignments and realignments” are simple political intercourse expected in every emerging democracy”. This, he said, is “necessary for the growth and development of our democracy.”

Aliyu, who is the Chairman of the Northern States Governors Forum (NSGF), said “it would be difficult for the opposition to defeat the PDP in 2015,” “emphasising that the PDP is a national party that is rooted across the country and it would be difficult for the merger of the opposition to defeat it, even if all opposition parties were to come together.”

A former House of Representatives member, Mr Dino Melaye, said: “I believe that the

merger will stand the test of time and will bring about the needed change Nigerians are asking for.

“We will not allow the merger and the new political party to be personalised. We are here to check the activity of the new party,’’ Melaye said.

ACN National Publicity Secretary Lai Mohammed said the APC was established to arrest the downward slide of insecurity so that Nigerians could have hope and revitalise the economy “As a party, we want to reinvent Nigeria and revitalise the economy so that its shortcomings will be a thing of the past; unemployment, insecurity and lack of infrastructure,’’ he said.

Veteran unionist Chief Frank Kokori also welcomed the APC, describing it as hope for Nigerians.

Speaking to The Nation yesterday, Kokori decried a situation where the ruling party has consistently taken Nigerians for granted because of the absence of a viable platform to challenge it.

“Honestly, it gives me hope and I must say, too, that it gives

Nigerians hope because there has been so much hopelessness all over the place. The reason is because there is no viable challenge from anywhere; so, they have been taking that for granted.

“But when you have a viable alternative opposition party, the party in power will sit up. We are gradually getting to the point that is similar to the days when we had the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and the National Republican Convention (NRC). Politics was okay then because nobody could take anybody for granted. If you fail to deliver, there is always an alternative platform to deal with you”, Kokori said.

National Chairman of United Progressives Party ( UPP) Chief Chekwas Okorie described the coming of the new party as “ good development”.

He said it had effectively made the 2015 permutations for the presidential contest clearer.

He reasoned that with the emergence of the APC, only three parties may present candidates for the 2015 presidential election.

THE NATION FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2013

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FOREIGN NEWS Syrian rebels battle Damascus

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YRIAN rebels battled army units for control of districts of Damascus for a second day on Thursday, part of a rebel offensive which aims to shake President Bashar al-Assad’s hold on the capital, a rebel captain and opposition activists said.

Units of Assad’s elite Republican Guard based on the imposing Qasioun Mountain overlooking the city fired artillery rounds and rockets at the eastern neighbourhood of Jobar and at the southern ring road, where rebels have overrun roadblocks and army positions, the sources said.

Assad, battling to crush a 22-month-old uprising in which 60,000 people have died, has lost control of large parts of the country but his forces, backed by air power, have so far kept rebels on the fringes of the capital.

Syrian state media said six people, including a woman and three children, were killed by rebel mortar fire on a bus station in the north-

eastern district of Qaboun on Thursday, with several other people seriously wounded.

Activists put the overnight death toll in the city at 30 people, mostly from heavy army bombardment on the contested neighbourhoods of Jobar, Zamalka and Hajar al-Aswad.

Damascus residents, long accustomed to the sounds of war, said Wednesday’s barrage some of the heaviest they had heard.

“They’ve gone insane. All of them. They’re insane,” one central Damascus resident said by telephone.

Jobar and Zamalka are situated near security compounds housing forces from Assad’s Alawite sect, an offshoot of Shi’ite Islam that has dominated power in Syria since the 1960s. Hajar al-Aswad is close to the southern entrance of the capital and the main highway to the city of Deraa and the Jordanian border.

ANALYSIS

Israel: After Syrian strike, is Iran next?

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T’S hard to get a handle on it — few Israelis are willing to talk about it on the record — but there’s been a palpable shift in thinking in Israel about launching an airstrike on Iran. Nowhere more than in the counter-terrorism community itself.

Even among the more reasoned — and moderate — voices there, the tone has moved from cautious optimism that an Israeli strike on Iran’s uranium enrichment facilities could be avoided to gloomy inevitability.

“It’s no longer a question of if but when,” replied one Israeli analyst when asked if Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu would respond militarily if Iran crossed his “red lines” and acquired a nuclear bomb Several analysts ticked off different factors behind the change of heart: •A growing realization that sanctions — no matter how robust — won’t stop Tehran from crossing Netanyahu’s “red lines” and posing an existential threat to the nation.

•Fueled by the Arab Spring, a sense of chaos swirling around Israel’s borders has led Israelis to vote once again for the toughminded Netanyahu — albeit in fewer numbers — and to sympathize with his hardline policy of protecting Israel at all costs, with walls, fences, and airstrikes, if necessary.

•There was a belief — call it a hope — that Netanyahu would not “go it alone” against Iran — that President Barack Obama would prevail upon him to avoid any unilateral action that might trigger an unforeseen Arab conflagration against Israel.

But some Israeli analysts say that Netanyahu seems much less worried than Obama about a lethal Arab response to an airstrike on Iran.

Only a few months ago the Israeli consensus on Iran felt much different. At the height of last fall’s Iran–Israel crisis, former Israeli Defense Minister Ehud Barak — once Netanyahu’s boss in an elite commando unit — not only had the prime minister’s ear, but seemed to counter his most hawkish impulses. Then, in late November, Barak quit the cabinet – and Israeli politics.

After elections last month, a new centrist party and leader were swept onto the political scene. Yair Lapid – a charismatic, former news anchorman – was expected to pressure Netanyahu into softer positions. So far, just the opposite has happened.

“It seems that Lapid is not as committed as Bibi (Netanyahu) to prevent Iran from becoming nuclear…(Lapid) is not being regarded as a military authority in Israel and he might not have the weight to balance Bibi,” said Dr Boaz Ganor, director of the Herzliya Institute for Counter-Terrorism.

Ganor went on to say that — ultimately — the order to strike Iran will be most influenced by the next Israeli defense minister. It now looks likely that will be the even more hawkish vice premier, Moshe Yaalon (unless Barak returns to the fold).

Israeli forces conducted an airstrike on a convoy the SyrianLebanese border.

With some reports suggesting that Iran is only months away from a nuclear bomb, the Obama administration is sticking to its support for tough sanctions, but also saying that Iran cannot be allowed to get a nuclear weapon.

Netanyahu, meanwhile, has backed up his rhetoric: last month the Israeli Air Force summarily destroyed a Syrian convoy of sophisticated rockets — inside Syria — allegedly heading to Lebanon and into the hands of Hezbollah, a sworn enemy of Israel.

“In Israel, there is wall to wall consent that Israel should do whatever it takes so that Hezbollah does not get access to these dangerous materials,” Ganor said.

•Students hold placards at a demonstration against government’s education budget cuts in Madrid, Spain. The national students’ union says the government has cut five billion euros (6.8 billion USD) from spending on schools and universities as it fights PHOTO: AFP to stabilise public finances.

Iran’s supreme leader rejects Joe Biden’s offer of direct talks

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Y A T O L L A H Khamenei speaking to Iranian air force commanders during a ceremony in Tehran on Thursday.

Iran’s supreme leader on Thursday rejected an offer of direct talks made by Vice President Joe Biden this week, saying they would not solve the problems between them, Iranian media reported.

“Some naive people like the idea of negotiating with America, however, negotiations will not solve the problems,” Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said in a speech to officials and members of Iran’s aerospace force, IRIB reported.

“If some people want American rule to be established again in Iran, the nation will rise up to face them,” he said.

“American policy in the Middle East has been destroyed and Americans now need to play a new card. That card is dragging Iran into negotiations.”

Khamenei made his comments just days after Biden said the United States was prepared to meet bilaterally with the Iranian leadership.

“That offer stands, but it must be real and tangible,” Biden said in a speech in Munich.

Relations between Iran and the United States were sev-

ered in 1979 after the overthrow of Iran’s pro-Western monarchy and diplomatic meetings between officials have since been very rare.

At schools, in shops, and on the streets of big cities and small towns, daily life plays out in Iran.

Currently U.S.-Iran contact is limited to talks between Tehran and the so-called P5+1 group of powers on Iran’s disputed nuclear program.

The talks are to resume Feb. 26 in Kazakhstan.

Many believe no deal on settling the nuclear issue is possible without a U.S.-Iranian thaw. But any rapprochement would require direct talks addressing many

•Khamenei

sources of mutual mistrust that have lingered since Iran’s 1979 Islamic Revolution and the subsequent U.S. Embassy hostage crisis in Tehran.

Moreover, although his reelection last November may give President Barack Obama a freer hand to pursue direct negotiations, analysts say Iran’s own presidential election in June may prove an additional obstacle to progress being made.

Egypt: Security strengthened after fatwas on oppositional leaders S

ECURITY was beefed up around Egypt’s opposition leaders on Thursday after several hardline Muslim clerics issued religious edicts calling for them to be killed, raising fears of assassinations similar to that of a Tunisian opposition leader gunned down a day earlier in Tunisia.

Egypt’s prime minister and the Muslim Brotherhood, which forms the backbone of the country’s leadership, condemned the edicts, or fatwas, and the top prosecutor launched an investigation against one of the clerics.

The slaying in Tunisia of opposition leader Chokri Belaid and the fatwas in Egypt have sparked an uproar in both countries and raised concerns that religious hard-liners could turn to killings to silence critics of Islamists’ rule.

In Egypt, hard-liners have reacted with fury to a wave of protests against Islamist President Mohammed Morsi since late January, which have turned into deadly clashes as police cracked down on the demonstrators. Aides to Morsi and Muslim Brotherhood officials have depicted the protesters as thugs and criminals and have accused opposition politicians of condoning or even fueling violence in an attempt to undermine Morsi.

Using similar rhetoric, several well-known hardline clerics the past week declared that punishments under Islamic

law for those who cause chaos or try to overthrow the ruler apply to the protesters and opposition leaders - including death, crucifixion or amputations of limbs.

Another cleric suggested that violent sexual assaults of women protesters in Tahrir Square the past week were justified, calling them “either Crusaders (Christians) ... or widows who have no one to rein them in.”

After criticism of government silence over the fatwas calling for killing opposition leaders, Prime Minister Hesham Kandil on Thursday warned that such edicts could lead to “sedition and disturbance.”

“These extremist edicts are not related to Islam,” Kandil said, according to the state news agency. “The Egyptian people had a glorious January Revolution for the sake of establishing a democratic society where dialogue prevails, not killing.”

A day earlier, Egypt’s most prominent opposition leader Mohamed ElBaradei, head of the National Salvation Front, had said on his Twitter account, “Regime silent as another fatwa gives license to kill opposition in the name of Islam.”

Interior Ministry spokesman Gen. Hani Abdel Latif

said security authorities will increase patrols in residential areas where opposition leaders live in. He told the website of the state Al-Ahram newspaper that security officials have “put into consideration” the assassination of the Tunisia’s Belaid.

A security official said ElBaradei’s home and several other leaders’ homes will be put under observation for their protection. The official spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to speak to the press.

The fatwas came after the wave of unrest that swept over Egypt since late January, when protests against Morsi turned to clashes in many places, and demonstrators have cut off roads and held strikes outside government buildings. Dozens were killed in police crackdowns on protesters. Last Friday, protests outside Morsi’s presidential palace turned into riots as police rained tear gas and fired birdshots at demonstrators throwing stones and firebombs, and then set fire to protesters’ tents. In a sign of the increasing mayhem, police stopped a man trying to drive a bulldozer at the palace’s gates the next day.

One well-known TV cleric, Mahmoud Shaaban, said the leaders of the National Salvation Front are “setting Egypt

on fire to gain power.”

“The verdict against them under God’s law is death,” he said on a talk show on a TV station connected to the ultraconservative Salafi movement.

He mentioned ElBaradei and another Front leader, Hamdeen Sabahi, saying “they have repeatedly spoken about toppling Morsi.” Later in the program, he clarified that the government should carry out the verdict, not private citizens.

Separately, another hardline cleric Wagdi Ghoneim issued a video statement pleading with Morsi to crack down heavily on those outside his palace.

He said “the verdict under Shariah for those who seek corruption on earth is to be fought, or crucified, or have their arms or legs cut off or be exiled from earth.”

“Strike with an iron fist.

Otherwise, the country will be lost at your hand and they’ll say it is your fault. They’ll say Islam doesn’t know how to rule and that it’s the Islamists who wrecked the country,” he said. He said that if Morsi’s government doesn’t act, private citizens will.

“We will kill the criminals, the thugs, the thieves and those who give them money and those who help them with words. No mercy with them,” Ghoneim shouted.

Top prosecutor Talaat Ibrahim ordered an investigation into Shaaban for his fatwa.

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SPORT EXTRA Lawmaker advises on local youth football revival

AFCON SEMI-FINAL MATCH

Eagles get N2.3m each, Keshi N4.6m A T HE Chairman, Finance Committee and a Board member of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Dr. Shehu Adamu has told NationSport in Durban Wednesday night that the bonuses of the Super Eagles team and officials have been paid till date.

The prominent NFF official disclosed that the Federation has made sure that no kobo was left unpaid as bonuses to the Nigeria senior national team in order to spur them to success in the on-going 2013 Africa Cup of Nations holding in South Africa.

Adamu gave the breakdown of the bonuses, “We had earlier decided before the beginning of the Africa Cup of Nations that a loss would be zero naira, you can’t get anything from that and a draw would fetch each player the sum of $5,000 (N785,000) while the chief coach will earn double the amount which is $10,000 (N1.57m). In

•Keshi

From Segun Ogunjimi, Durban

the quarter-final stage we paid the players $12,500 (N1.96m) each, while Stephen Keshi received the sum of $25,000 (N3.9m).

“For the semi-final victory against Mali, the players received the sum of $15,000 (N2.3m) each, while the chief coach received the sum of $30,000 (N4.6m). So in the final, the bonus could increase. We have already

budgeted the money for the final and we are paying each player the sum of $20,000 (N3.1m) and Keshi gets the double of the amount which is $40,000 (N6.2m) that is in the event of a win in the final of this Afcon”, Adamu disclosed.

“This is just a token from the Board of the NFF but we believe that there is no honour and reward greater than these players representing over 160 million Nigerians and

making them happy by winning the Africa Cup of Nations.

“What is paramount to the Board of the Nigeria Football Federation is the team, Super Eagles. So all that is needed must be provided and I can confidently tell you that all that is needed for this team to succeed has been taken care of (provided whether the expected money is released or not)”, Adamu stated.

Crystal Palace wants Osaze on loan

I

AN HOLLOWAY would like to sign Peter Odemwingie for Crystal Palace, but feels a move for the unsettled West Brom striker might be out of his club’s reach.

Reports on Thursday morning suggested that Odemwingie, who caused a transfer deadline day stir by driving to QPR uninvited in a bid to push through a move, could be loaned out to Holloway’s npower Championship club until the end of the season.

The Eagles’ manager was asked about the rumours at a press conference on Friday, and confirmed contact had been made with his chairman, Steve Parish, about the player but felt that a deal was far from being done.

“Someone contacted the chairman. I was asked if I

would want him (Odemwingie). I said yes,” Holloway said.

“I don’t think he’s a realistic target for us personally.”

Press Association Sport understands Holloway is not optimistic about doing a deal as he feels other clubs may also be in for the player.

It is understood, however, that talks have taken place which could see Odemwingie head to Selhurst Park and then sign a permanent deal in the summer.

The Nigeria international looks to have no future at West Brom, with Baggies manager Steve Clarke describing his unauthorised drive to Loftus Road as “total lunacy” and chairman Jeremy Peace calling him “wholly unprofessional”.

QPR failed with two bids for

Odemwingie, who launched a series of Twitter attacks against the club after having a transfer request rejected.

It remains to be seen whether Albion would allow him to leave at this juncture, if Palace could afford his £39,000-a-week salary or whether Odemwingie wants to drop out of the top flight.

Odemwingie was largely attracted by a salary on offer of nearly £70,000 a week at QPR. Clarke is aware Odemwingie’s departure would reduce his options but is also conscious his actions have not gone down well in some parts of the dressing room.

Odemwingie returned to training this week after being allowed to miss the weekend clash with Tottenham.

member of the Lagos State House of A s s e m b l y , representing Apapa 2 Constituency, Hon. Olumuyiwa Jimoh, has advised that football must be revived at the local level in Nigeria for the country’s league to meet up with international standard.

Jimoh gave this advice yesterday at the flag-off of the 2nd Honourable Olumuyiwa Jimoh Youth Football Competition, organised for the seven wards in his constituency.

The lawmaker, while explaining his purpose for organising the competition, stated that when he was young, “football competitions like this are always organised from where stars emerge.

“The purpose of this competition is of two folds, first is to bring unity amongst the youth in the Apapa-Iganmu community which is under the constituency I represent in the Assembly.”

“Initially, there are some mutual and self-destructive animosities among the youths. There is no unity in the community, but with the introduction of this football competition, I discovered that there is relative unity among the people.

“Sport serves as an appetizer and antidote to bring the youth together and it also creates an avenue for cross-fertilization of ideas.

Not only that, as we train on

By Oziegbe Okoeki sport by exercising their bodies, we are also training their minds and the two go together,” he said.

He pointed out that the likes of Emmanuel Amunike, Henry Nwosu, Wasiu Ipaye, amongst several others were produced from ApapaIganmu through such competitions that were organised when they were young.

He expressed regret that such competitions are gradually dying and it is affecting the country’s local leagues “and that is why we have this problem in our national teams. Most of our players prefer to go outside and play in the foreign leagues because they feel our league is not encouraging and lucrative.

“If we can revive this type of competition at our local level, I can assure you that we will gradually be reviving the local league and we can return to producing the best like we have always done in the past,” he stated.

While lamenting the lack of job opportunities in the country, the lawmaker explained that through football competition of such, youths that are without jobs can be engaged so that they won’t go into robbery, thuggery and other vices.

Draws for the competition were made, and jersey were also distributed to the 7 wards.

TODAY IN THE NATION

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2013

TRUTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM

SEGUN GBADEGESIN gbadegesin@thenationonlineng.net

Family involvement in education

•Mrs. Clinton

yourselves?”) Iyabo has been a sprinter all her life and before I knew what was going on, she had left me behind. I too managed to escape. But of course, the matter had been reported to our parents and what we escaped in the hands of Mr. Longe, we eventually received in the hands of Papa. Later in life, Isaac, Mr. Longe’s son, was one of my very good students in every respect, an outcome that I attributed to good family background and parental involvement.

The event that I just recalled is narrated to underscore the point of this discourse.

First, it takes a village to raise a child. But second, as our people also understand, there has to be a demarcation of ownership in a matter of joint property. Parents have to take effective ownership of family responsibility in the education of children. And this has always been our tradition even in the pre-colonial days when our focus was

RIPPLES We are the MESSI of Nigerian politics– PDP

No wonder you’ve been DRIBBLING us since 1999

VOL.8 NO.2,394

C OMMENT & D EB ATE EBA

I

N the past several weeks, I have argued for the need to bet on our innocent children whom we voluntarily choose to bring into the world. I submit that we bet on them when we create a future that is worthy of them and the country which they in turn can be proud to call theirs. We create that future by investing in their education from the cradle so that from the first time they open their eyes, they see a nation that cares and educates, just as they behold the love of an extended family of mother, father, siblings, uncles, aunties and grandparents who first welcome them with loving hands and cheerful faces. Today, I discuss how this initial joy of welcoming a new member of the family must lead to a lifetime of involvement in the education of that original bundle of joy.

The idea, popularised by former First Lady, former Senator and now former United States Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton, that it takes a village to raise a child is originally an African belief and no indigenous African brought up in the tradition of the ancestors can escape its practical import. We come from social settings in which any older person in the village, whether a blood relation or not, has the traditional authority to discipline you so you don’t bring the village into disrepute and so that you don’t cause yourself avoidable harm. We all have stories of great uncles who are more fearful than our fathers.

But more to the point, we have cases of perfect strangers who, on account of their consideration of our best interests, may choose their own way of bringing us back to our senses. I have one such story, which weaves together in an interesting way, the elements of my thoughts for today.

It was my last year in the elementary school, the Okeho Literary Society—a group of young men and women who had advanced in the education ladder—put together a program of after-school study group to prepare us for the final regional examination, the Primary School Leaving Certificate Examination. My cousin, Iyabo Ojeleye and I were enrolled by our parents. On our way to the evening class one day, we chose to walk by a fence littered with broken bottles. Unbeknown to us, Mr. Longe, the local pharmacist, sitting by his shop had been watching us. Now Mr. Longe wasn’t an indigene of Okeho. However, having been persuaded that we were endangering our lives, he knew what to do.

He secured a horsewhip hanging on his door, and as we neared his shop, he pulled up his almost 7-foot body frame, with the horse whip in hand and shouted at us: e fee foju ara yin sera yin? (“do you want to hurt

‘For today’s men and men of yesterday, the louder they talked of their honour, the faster we counted our spoons. They all mask their self-interest as public’s and are always ready to manipulate collective aspirations for personal good.’

on practical education for skills that were considered essential for a successful life— farming, trading, crafts, and family professions. Parents secured apprenticeship for their children, and developed good relationships with the masters training their kids. And when “western education” was introduced, in spite on their deficit in that area of knowledge, many parents understood that the future of their wards was in the hands of the teacher and the school. So they got involved in various ways.

My father was a self-taught reader and writer and was always proud when he would converse with me in English in the presence of his friends. In my student days away from home, I always enjoyed reading his letters in what I thought then was an archaic cursive writing until my children had to learn cursive in the elementary school in the United States. My friend, Bisi Adesola’s father, and my father became close on account of our education. They never missed a Parent-Teacher Association meeting and, interestingly, even after each of us had left the schools, they would still attend those meetings. For them, just as there are student alumni, there are parent alumni with responsibilities to be involved.

I followed my father’s lead almost to a fault. While he had no choice but to let me leave home for higher education, since there was no secondary school or secondary modern school in Okeho after my completion of the elementary school, I had a choice, and my wife and I decided in favour of keeping our children close to us.

All our children gained admission to the popular Unity Schools when those schools were supposed to be the best. But we decided that they would be better off with us if we were actively involved in their schooling. We chose to be active in the Parent-

HARDBALL

I

N the coming months, the newly formed All Progressives Congress (APC) made up of four leading opposition parties will face the huge responsibility of convincing Nigerians it means business. It has no choice but to make a success of it. The Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), Congress for Progressive (CPC), All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP), and All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) had surprised the polity on Wednesday by announcing their merger in order to present a realistic challenge to the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). The announcement itself was well orchestrated, with many governors in attendance, and inspiring speeches made justifying the merger as a prerequisite for the sustenance of democracy. The merger was of course expected, but few people knew it was about to be consummated. They will need more such surreptitiousness in the months ahead to guard their future plans and defend the principles of their association.

Chairman of the Merger Committee of the ACN, Chief Tom Ikimi, was especially convincing in offering the rational for the merger. Said he: “At no time in our national life has radical change become more urgent.

And to meet the challenge, we the following political parties namely ACN, ANPP, APGA and CPC have resolved to merge forthwith and become All Progressives Con-

APC: New party, new frontiers gress and offer to our beleaguered people a recipe for peace and prosperity. We resolve to form a political party committed to the principles of internal democracy, focused on serious issues of concern to our people, determined to bring corruption and insecurity to an end, determined to grow our economy and create jobs in their millions through education, housing, agriculture, industrial growth etc, and stop the increasing mood of despair and hopelessness among our people. The resolution of these issues, the restoration of hope, and the enthronement of true democratic values for peace, democracy and justice are those concerns which propel us. We believe that by these measures only shall we restore our dignity and position of pre-eminence in the comity of nations. This is our pledge.”

But the easiest part of the unfolding political contest set to captivate the country between now and 2015 is the merger of the four leading opposition parties or the making of pledges. The hardest part, however, will be how these coalescing parties success-

MOBOLAJI SANUSI

Teachers Association of Moremi High School, Ile-Ife, a public school located on the campus of Obafemi Awolowo University. I served as the Chairman for a couple of years. I knew that the school had a dedicated staff led by Deacon J. A. Ogunwuyi who is now a proprietor of his own school.

And of course, my children still tell tales of how hard it was for them in the house when they had to study for several hours a day. The point is that a school is what its clientele makes it and these include the teachers and the parents.

The literature on parental involvement in education is convincing. There is copious evidence that when the family is actively involved in the education of their children, it has a positive influence on the achievement of the children not only in school but throughout life because it enables them, not only to do well in examinations and earn good grades, but also to develop better social skills which help them in life. Initiating and nurturing family involvement in the education of children is a double-lane approach by parents and schools because there is a lot at stake for both but certainly more for the parents. A school where accountability is taken seriously and where there are consequences for failure would leave no stone unturned in getting all hands on the deck for successful students outcomes. On the other hand, parents know that the future of their kids, and their own happiness and peace of mind are at stake. They therefore have a lot more reason to get involved. Careers are important, but as the elders remind us, the probability is very high that a child that is inadvertently let untrained and unskilled may end up destroying whatever legacy an illustrious career has succeeded in building.

Surely, not all parents have the patience, skills, or self-confidence that are essential to an effective involvement on all fronts. A parent may not be able to offer direct help for a child’s home work. This is where the entire family structure has to be deployed.

We pride ourselves as communal in orientation. We create the phenomenon of asoebi. And as I recalled above, it has also been our tradition for community organisations to get involved in the education of their members. What it requires is a new orientation that privileges the very idea of community which our urban-centered individualism has jettisoned. Then what one lacks, others can supply and together we can build a new coalition of committed family and community for the education of our children.

•For comments, send SMS to 08082036515

•Hardball is not the opinion of the columnist featured above fully create, among other things, internal dynamics that is both practicable and truly democratic, a party machine primed into a cohesive and irresistible fighting force, and a progressive platform cobbled together adroitly to resonate with the electorate. If they overcome these hurdles, they will then come against the unrelenting and ruthless PDP machine that does not fuss over rules and regulations, not to talk of principles and values. The PDP will not consider it in its interest to let the new party cohere or stabilise. They will attack it with new alliances of their own, and erect a stifling architecture of legislative and executive fiats against the new party, up to the point of even demonising it.

What is not in doubt, and a fact that stands in favour of the new party, is that the coming of APC will lead to the sharpening of the main political dividing line in the country. Gradually, rather than accentuating the possibility of one-party state, we may begin to move in the direction of the muchdesired two-party system that is more manageable, less threatening to the country’s unity, and able to sharpen the appreciation of issues upon which enlightened political choices are made. The country is ready for APC; what no one is sure of, but which only the party can answer, is whether the party is ready for the country.

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