February 23, 2015 by The Nation

Newspaper of the Year

...95 D AYS TO GO DA

•AND

•APC renews call for Ekiti rigging tape’s probeMORE ON PAGES •Jega meets security chiefs on elections dates 2-9&48 •Rivers violence threat to democracy, says Peterside •Mimiko, PDP chief battle for Jonathan’s campaign

•Nigeria’s widest circulating newspaper

VOL. 10, NO. 3134 MONDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2015

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TR UTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM TRUTH

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•INSIDE: NIGERIA’S GDP SLIDES IN Q4 P5 WEMA BANK GETS NEW DIRECTORS P6

Activists warn Jonathan against tenure extension President: Interim Govt is treasonable Day of action Feb 28

CTIVISTS warned yesterday against another shift of the general elections. They will stage a nationwide protest should the elections be postponed. The elections fixed for March 28 and April 11 must hold, Nigerians United for Democracy (NUD) said. The group’s leader, Mr. Femi Falana (SAN), spoke at a news conference in Lagos. With him were Malachy Ugwumadu, Olarenwaju Suraj and Mr. Debo Adeniran, among others. They listed attempts by President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration to derail the elections, saying there would be a national day of action on February 28, where Nigerians would stand hand-in-hand to send a strong message to the government that the citizenry

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There is no way Goodluck Jonathan...will...head an Interim Government. The only interim government anybody can constitute is that of the military government which will not be accepted By Musa Odoshimokhe, Political Reporter

will not tolerate any attempt to interfere with the elections. The group called on the National Assembly to compel the Service Chiefs to extract an undertaking that the elections would not be shifted. President Jonathan promised yesterday the dates would not be changed. Besides, he dismissed the rumour of an interim government — an idea he described as treasonable.

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Falana said Nigerians were worried about the statement of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Chairman, Prof. Attahiru Jega, that the new election dates were not sacrosanct. The elections were originally fixed for February 14 and 28. “We are compelled to call on the National Assembly to extract a form of undertaking from the National Security Adviser (NSA) and the security chiefs that the general elections would not further be

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We...call on the National Assembly to extract a form of undertaking from the NSA and the security chiefs that the elections would not be further postponed or disrupted

postponed or disrupted,” Falana said, adding: “The undertaking ought to be made publicly by the service chiefs, in view of the categorical statement of the Court of Appeal that the Armed Forces have no role to play in the electoral process.” Saying there was need to prevent a slide into anarchy, Falana said: “We need to take our destiny into our hands. We need to ensure that darkness does not once again descend on our country and we

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are insisting that nothing must change the new dates of March 28 and April 11.” He added that the postponement of the elections at the instance of the Service chiefs could not be justified in law. “It was a plot to undermine the democratic process and prevent Nigerians from exercising their rights of franchise. “Having fought the war on terror for six years, there is no indication that the Boko Haram sect would be wiped Continued on page 4

Troops mandated to capture Shekau alive

ROOPS have been mandated to ensure that Boko Haram leader Imam Abubakar Shekau is captured alive. Ground troops are expected to advance on Sambisa and Gwoza any moment from now, it was learnt yesterday. Top on the agenda of the military are the rescue of the Chibok girls and the capturing of Shekau. While the manhunt for Shekau begins, the military are said to have reclaimed five key towns in Borno. The towns are: Baga, Monguno, Marte, Gamboru Ngala, and Dikwa. The military claimed that Shekau was killed in encoun-

WILL THE CHIBOK GIRLS KIDNAPPED ON APRIL 15, LAST YEAR EVER RETURN?

From Yusuf Alli, Abuja

ters with troops in September 2014 in Konduga. But Shekau later emerged, saying: “Here I am, alive. I will only die the day Allah takes my breath.” It was learnt that following persistent appearance of ‘Shekau’, the military decided to take advantage of the ongoing successful operations in the Northeast to launch a manhunt for him. A top military source said: “Troops have been put on red alert for any insurgents’ leader bearing the name of Imam Abubakar Shekau, who is believed to be desperately looking for escape routes. ”Troops have been urged to at all costs to capture Shekau alive so that he can face justice. ”On at least two occasions now, troops have killed characters calling themselves Abubakar Shekau in videos but the insurgents manage to find other individuals looking like Continued on page 4

Firm: PTF not indicted

FIRM of management consultants, the Afri-Projects Consurtium, has condemned what it described as a smear campaign by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to discredit the achievements of the Petroleum (Special) ... Business Page 5

‘Decide on Keshi now’

OMER Super Eagles’ winger Tijani Babangida has advised the Nigeria F o o t b a l l Federation (NFF) to give Stephen Keshi a new contract or announce his replacement immediately. The Super Eagles have been without a chief coach since last...

Sport Page 37

Afe Babalola gets UK award

MINENT lawyer Chief Afe Babalola (SAN) is to be conferred with the honourary Doctor of Law (LCD) by the University of London. Chief Babalola will be receiving his 12th honourary doctorate from the foremost British ... News Page 4

41 dead as ferry sinks

A •All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential candidate Gen. Muhammadu Buhari (right) with House of Representatives Speaker Aminu Tambuwal after a meeting in London...yesterday.

N overcrowded ferry sank in a Bangladesh river yesterday, leaving at least 41 people, including 11 children, dead as rescuers searched into the night for missing passengers. Foreign Page 49

•SPORTS P20 •JOB P31 •CEO P33 •MOTORING P35 •POLITICS P39 •FOREIGN P49

THE NATION MONDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2015

NEWS

MAY 29 ...95 DAYS TO GO

The Buhari phenomenon •Chairman, Heirs Holdings and Founder Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF), Tony Elumelu (second left) discussing with TEF’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Prof Reid Whitlock (second right) at the Foundation's Office in Ikoyi, Lagos. With them are the Foundation’s pioneer CEO and Director, Strategy, Heirs Holdings, Dr. Wiebe Boer (left) and Group Director, Financial Services, Heirs Holdings, Victor Osadolor.

With a conviction that it will be morning again in Nigeria once the mess created by years of inept and rudderless leadership is cleaned up, Gen. Muhammadu Buhari is taking the fourth shot at the presidency. In this article, seasoned journalist DAN AGBESE examines the records of the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential standard bearer and why the former Head of State believes a strong leader will engender a stronger nation and transform Nigeria to a great country from being a potentially great nation.

•Retail Cluster Head, First City Monument Bank (FCMB) Limited, Mrs. Olubukola Akintade (right), Chief Executive and Principal of Grange School, Lagos, Mr. Graham Stothard and a member of staff of the school, Mrs. Olufunke Sotunde at the annual charity event tagged: “Lights Up for Cancer 2015”, jointly organised by Grange School and FCMB.

•Corporate Strategy Associate, Arik Air, Dr. Nnamdi Bolu (left) greeting pleasantries with the airline’s Managing Director, Mr. Chris Ndulue at the Air Star Awards at the Arik’s Corporate Headquarter in Lagos...at the weekend. With them is the airlines Group Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Michael Arumemi-Ikhide.

•Executive Director, Polo Luxury Group, Ms Jennifer Obayuwana (left), Brand Ambassador, Ms Osas Ogbodaro (middle) and Boutique Manager, Polo Avene, Ms. Titilola Akinkugbe at a news conference to unveil the Spring Summer Collection 2015 at Polo Avenue, Victoria Island, Lagos. PHOTO: JOHN EBHOTA

ET us begin this brief discussion with the obvious. Gen. Muhammadu Buhari, former Head of State, 1984-85, is in the presidential race for the fourth time since 2003. It is thus easy for his detractors to put it down to his consuming ambition to rule this country for the second time. I think it should now be possible for us to be fair and openminded about him, what he stands for and what motivates him to weather his disappointments and maintain his focus towards his objective of leading a competent and dedicated national team to salvage our dear country, ravaged by termites. It has been his obsession for 31 years now. It is difficult not to admire his courage. Three times he ran the race and three times he lost. Each time, believing that the verdict by the electoral umpire did not reflect the true decision of the people, he pursued his case all the way to the highest court in the land. In 2003, he spent more than three years trying to persuade their lordships to listen to him and do justice to him, the electoral system, the rule of law and the country. The courts failed him each time because politics trumped justice in the temple of justice. The system failed him each time with palpable injury to our collective sense of justice. Yet, he was not, to use the popular saying, even shaken. Each setback fired his resolve. It seems to me that only he could see the rainbow where the rest of us see the dark clouds of despair and lost hope. I have no intention of couching his political ambition in sacerdotal terms but a man this faithful to his cause and belief is an inspiration. It is no longer difficult to see that the general is clearly motivated by nobler and higher objectives than his alleged greed for power, whatever his detractors might say. For one, his quest is clear evidence that unlike many, he has not lost faith in the present and the future of our country. Buhari believes that our country is not a lost cause. Many of our compatriots have more or less given up on the country because they are convinced that like Nazareth, nothing good will come out of this lumbering giant of Africa. You cannot blame those who feel that way. Nigeria seems condemned to being a permanently potentially great country. Lesser African and other Third World countries have pulled themselves up by their bootstraps but ours seems content to hold the candle to such countries. This country has squandered its riches and opportunities and overdrawn from its bank account of international goodwill. It evokes more pity than pride. Its once loud voice in the comity of nations has been reduced to incoherent whining. Its once commanding presence in the international arena has been reduced to a black fedora at photo ops at the

gathering of world leaders. Gen. Buhari told TheNews magazine at an interview in December 2003, “I think this country is in a mess.” He has consistently demonstrated his belief that the mess could be cleaned up and it would be morning again in Nigeria. If good people run away from the mess, it would only get messier. This has been his mantra since January 1984. He told us on his assumption of office as Head of State: “This generation of Nigerians and indeed future generations have no other country than Nigeria. “We shall remain here and salvage it together.” The General is still in the salvage operation. In 1984, Buhari came into office as an angry General. He was disappointed that in only four years and three months or so, the politicians had managed, quite remarkably, to put the economy in serious “predicament.” Our country was “afflicted” by a “crisis of confidence.” Nigeria became a risky country to do business with. Its trading partners denied it lines of credit. Young Nigerians were checking out in search of greener pastures elsewhere. His appearance on the political scene in 2003 was a big surprise to many, yours sincerely not excempted, who believed that Buhari hated politics and the politicians. How could he keep the company of those who worship in the shrines of untruth and who verily believe that corruption is merely a smart way of being “better pass your neighbour”? There were obstacles in his path in the shapes and sizes of some of those he put behind bars in 1984-85. They had become the party moguls and the deciders-in-chief of political fortunes and misfortunes in the country. How could they let the General on to the turf? They obviously feared that if Buhari came again, he would head them back into jail again. Time sharpens the edge of revenge. Buhari looked beyond that and surprisingly showed that he understood the elementary facts of a presidential contest. He did not come into it as a joke. He did so with seriousmindedness. He was the only presidential candidate that year to publish his manifesto – an impressive document that lamented our lost opportunities but wasted no tears over them or indulge in a puerile and futile blame game. His manifesto detailed his appreciation of our national challenges and his informed approach to meeting and defeating them. Twice, Buhari stood on the platform of his party – the All Nigerian Peoples Party (ANPP), and twice the wily politicians used him as a bargaining chip with the ruling party. Thus compromised and happy with it, the politicians also made their party history. Their vengeance was to make Buhari a political orphan. By the 2003 general elections, the party had lost all but two of

THE NATION MONDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2015

MAY 29 ...95 DAYS TO GO

n •Gen Buhari acknowledging cheers from a cross- section of supporters at the APC presidential campaign at the Ramat Square, Maiduguri...February 17

the seven states it won in 1999. Buhari understood the game. He took an unprecedented step. He formed his own political party – the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC), on whose platform he contested the presidential election in 2011. Was he doing all these because of his greed for power? It does not add up. Buhari is the most misunderstood Nigerian of his generation since his whirlwind 20-month rule. Much of the misunderstanding is a product of the fear of the man they refuse to understand. He has been tarred and feathered as an alleged religious fanatic whose alleged objective in seeking power is to Islamise Nigeria. Yet, his detractors find it convenient not to remember that in his quest for the presidency, Buhari has not carried his campaigns to mosques or Muslim groups anywhere in the country. Religion has never featured in his campaigns. Political leadership is not about the god you worship. It is about serving that god by serving the people. On the other hand, unlike Buhari, President Goodluck Jonathan is busy mining religion for his political benefits. It is no secret that he hops from one obscure church to another, seeking assurance from pastors that he is the man chosen by God. Twice, he took state governors, ministers and pastors to pray at the Wailing Wall in Jerusalem. I have heard no one accuse him of Christianising Nigeria. The trouble for Buhari’s detractors is that despite their poor attempts to tarnish his integrity, they are unable to reasonably question his solid credentials: his incorruptibility and his belief in and commitment to discipline and the rule of law. Not all of us are comfortable with a strong leader. Many of us prefer a weak and jolly leader who holds the cow for the smart ones to milk. When United States (U.S) President Barrack Obama advised that Africa needed strong institutions, not strong leaders. Buhari’s quite sensible response was that you need strong leaders to build strong institutions on the continent. Just see how many of our national institutions are mothballed through a poor appreciation of the fact that nations are built and they progress on the strong pillars of their institutions. The governor of Jigawa, Sule Lamido, was once quoted as saying, “the fear of Buhari is the beginning of wisdom.” Perhaps, that is the problem. In entering the presidential race for a record fourth time, Gen. Muhammed Buhari could not have expected he would become a phenomenon in our national politics. He has. This fact has

crept up slowly on the nation. It is not easy to explain away his transformation, partly because it is complicated and partly because it would amount to trying to unravel the mysteries of human mood swings and how the wind of the dynamics of national politics blows.If there are political psychoanalysts, they have a big task here. Buhari is a political surprise. Nothing in his character or his professional military training hints at his becoming a man of the people, riding on the crest waves of populism where it matters most - among the poor, the dispossessed, the cheated and the despairing. Buhari is an ascetic and a rigid military man. Populism is not his cup of tea. At least, until now that he finds himself the crowned head of a popular politician. He did not enter the race waving the banner of populism. He did so, waving his flag as a seriousminded politician. He has offered nothing but his credentials as an incorruptible and competent leader with the sole objective of fixing his badly broken country. Normally, his sales pitch would be a no-no because we have been conditioned to expect and even demand largesse from politicians during electioneering campaigns, the only time they reach out to the people. It is no secret that there is lack of mutual trust between the people and the politicians. It is quid pro quo: Give us money, get our votes. And because Buhari, being of a spare flesh, cannot shake body, his campaign promises would be treated as airy nothings - full of sound but not the welcome sound the naira makes in the pocket. Buhari has stood that conventional wisdom on its head - I hope for good and the good of our country. The poor flock to him in a way we have not seen since perhaps the First Republic when Chief Obafemi Awolowo and the champion of the talakwa, Malam Aminu Kano, championed their cause. The poor know he has no money and did not come into the race with a war chest bulging with dollars, pounds and naira. So, instead of asking him for money, they chip in the little they have for his campaigns. As witness the 80-year-old woman in Niger State, who gave him her life's saving of one million naira. As witness schoolboys and hundreds of the struggling poor who chipped in their proverbial widow's mite. A politician funded by the people? What is even more interesting is that hundreds of the young men and women who work in the Buhari campaign at national and state levels, are

volunteers. They work for free because they believe, I suspect, that the lack of money should not debar him from his noble national pursuit. It does have the grating sound of aberration. Buhari does not rent crowds at his campaign rallies. The people flock there at their own expense. It must be a big surprise that the common people see in him the genuine and honest leader they crave for. I keep hearing something like these: "I trust him because he is honest. He had the chance to feather his own nest but he did not. He is the only politician who is genuinely offended by the brazen theft of our common wealth. I believe he is the only one who has what it takes to stop the rot and rescue our nation.We are drowning." However you look at it, Buhari is leading an authentic political movement of the common people for the common people. His transformation is telling evidence that victimhood could be the road to heroism. Luck, therefore, played a major part in this. Part of his luck was that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) moguls made the fundamental mistake of making him the issue in its presidential campaigns. It went after Gen Buhari in every sleazy way: questioning his qualification or even literacy; fabricating his health records and dragging the innocent members of his family into the fray. It is sordid desperate. While the PDP foul mouths went after him this way, the man concentrated on selling himself to the various economic and demographic groups in the country. His town hall meeting with businessmen was an important step for creating an economic programme that would take this country from this country from being a true economic giant of Africa. Gen. Buhari thus concentrates on the real issues that affect the country and its teeming ordinary people. I find him usually at least one step ahead of the PDP. In response, its attack dogs lose their heads and let loose a fusillade of invectives

that does nothing for their image as desperadoes. Their attacks on Gen. Buhari became a turn-off for many and some came down from sitting on the fence and cast their lot with him. My take is that Gen. Buhari is a surprise beneficiary of the politics of hate and smear campaigns. His political opponents have waged a relentless war in attempts to assail his integrity with loads of lies and fabrications. You would expect a short-tempered military man to respond in kind. Not Gen. Buhari. He puts himself above the political fray and focuses on the task and the challenges before him. His statesman-like response to insults has been calm, measured and cool-headed. This is part of the building block of his new persona. It seems to me that the more his political opponents attack him, the more the people are moved to protect him. Part of the game plan of the PDP and the presidency in postponing the general election for six weeks was that Buhari would come out, the guns of anger blazing, and his party men and women would take to the streets in protests that would likely turn ugly and give President Goodluck Jonathan and his men the excuse to put into effect the plan to either postpone the election indefinitely or impose on the country an ugly contraption called interim government. They were shocked that the General understood the game. He saw the trap. Armed with his considerable moral authority, Gen. Buhari kept his party leaders and members in line. They did not raise their voices of protestsabove those of other people who saw in the subterfuge a well-laid out plan to stop Buhari.His response and that of his party deflated the PDP and shattered its game plan. And again, Gen. Buhari emerged from it a victor, not a victim. To recast Governor Sule Lamido's dictum: "The fear of Gen. Buhari is the reason for some hope in our democracy."

It could still be a bubble. It would be naïve not to make due allowances for that. The March 28 presidential election may settle it. Whatever might be Gen. Buhari's final political fate in that election, no one would take away from him some fundamental lessons of his quest for power. Our national politics, post-Gen. Buhari, would not be the same again. Firstly, he has brought the common people into reckoning in our national politics, showing, as no other presidential candidate has done so far, that power truly belongs to the people. His common touch is genuine and his drive for an inclusive nation is sincere. Secondly, he has amply demonstrated that politics is not a do-or-die affair and the easy resort to smear campaigns and personal insults is cheap and blasé. Thirdly, he has shown that the koboless has a chance in the contest for political power now dominated by the rich. Fourthly, his drive rekindles the faith of the many in the capacity of this nation to rescue itself and heal itself of its self-inflicted wounds. Fifthly and perhaps, most importantly, the merger of the four parties into one formidable party - APC - owes as much to Gen. Buhari's belief in the place of political parties as authentic platforms for democracy and national progress, as it does to the political sagacity of that truly wily politician, Senator Ahmed Bola Tinubu, former governor of Lagos State. If APC becomes a truly authentic alternative political choice, then we can look back to these times and acknowledge Gen. Buhari as a phenomenon, who, through the weight of his moral authority, helped to erect the pillars for the future of our nation and its democracy. Agbese, a former Editor-in-Chief, Newswatch magazine, is an executive director, MayFive Media Limited, Lagos.

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Yet, his detractors find it convenient not to remember that in his quest for the presidency, Buhari has not carried his campaigns to mosques or Muslim groups anywhere in the country. Religion has never featured in his campaigns. Political leadership is not about the god you worship. It is about serving that god by serving the people.

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•Agbese

THE NATION MONDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2015

NEWS Troops mandated to capture Shekau alive Military uncovers heaps of weapons in Baga, says DHQ

Continued from page 1

him and pretend that he was still alive. ”The order to catch Shekau alive is therefore to ensure that it will no longer be possible to resort to the same trick. “The rumour about Shekau’s invincibility is one of the factors that troops are afraid to confront the terrorists.” The defunct Joint Task Force (JTF) had on November 23, 2012 placed a ransom on 19 leaders of Boko Haram. The list comprised five members of the Shurra Committee (the highest policy making body of the sect) and 14 Boko Haram commanders. But one of the Shurra Committee members, Mohammed Zangina(a.k.a Mallam Abdullahi/Alh. Musa), with a N25million ransom, was allegedly killed in a shoot-out with the Joint Task Force(JTF) in Maiduguri. With Zangina out, four members of the Shurra Committee, including Imam Abubakar Shekau (N50million); Habibu Yusuf (a.k.a Asalafi) N25million; Khalid Albarnawai ( N25million); and Momodu Bama (N25 million) are still wanted. The fate of Momodu Bama was also unknown as at press time following conflicting reports on whether he is alive or dead. The Boko Haram Commanders being sought for by the JTF are: Abu Saad (N10million); Abba Kaka (N10million); Abdulmalik Bama (N10million)

From Yusuf Alli, Abuja

HE Defence Headquarters yesterday said heaps of weapons have been uncovered by troops in Baga, Borno State barely 24 hours after reclaiming the fishing settlement. It also claimed that a soldier was stabbed and another shot at close quarter during the cordon and search going on in the area. A statement by the Director of Defence Information, Maj-Gen. Chris Olukolade, yesterday said: “Troops engaged in cordon and search in Baga continue to discover more arms of various background and shapes abandoned in some houses and the surrounding by fleeing terrorists. “Heaps of weapons most of which were strange looking or destroyed are still being gathered. Many abandoned or destroyed motorcycles have also been discovered. “A soldier was stabbed while another was shot during a close quarter battle which ensued as troops involved in cordon and search caught up with some of the fleeing terrorists yesterday (Saturday) evening. “ A number of individuals who claimed to be residents are also being interrogated in order to ascertain their identity and motive. “The group consisting mostly women continued to hail and cheer the troops as they conduct thorough search in the area. Wanting to be sure the group was not working for the terrorists despite the excitement, they had to be placed under watch. The cordon and search as well as patrol of the localities continue while the offensive on terrorists is progressing in other areas of the theater of the counter -terrorist campaign.” Umar Fulata(N10million); Alhaji Mustapha (Massa) Ibrahim (N10million); Abubakar Suleiman-Habu (a.k.a Khalid) N10million; Hassan Jazair N10million; Ali Jalingo (N10million); Alhaji Musa Modu (N10million); Bashir Aketa (N10million); Abba Goroma (N10million); Ibrahim Bashir (N10million); Abubakar Zakariya (N10million); and Tukur Ahmed Mohammed (N10million). The military is said to have

reclaimed five key towns from Boko Haram insurgents. These are Baga, Monguno, Marte, Gamboru Ngala and Dikwa. Another military source added: “Within a week of the massive operation, the troops have recovered Monguno, Marte, Gamboru Ngala, Dikwa among other big towns and several surrounding communities in Borno State. ”With acquisition of new equipment from various sourc-

es and the specialised training of the troops on guerrilla warfare, the military indirectly called the bluff of some deceptive western countries who are now trying to save face by claiming to work with our neighbours. ”The effective collaboration and mutual relationship with our neighbours is paying off as they now realise that inaction can pose disasters to their countries too.” An intelligence source gave insights into the factors behind the recent breakthrough of the troops. The source said: “Troops’ morale has been greatly boosted in recent times by arrival of sophisticated armaments and the decision of senior military officers to lead the war against terror directly which also influenced the change of some commanders. ”Some of the successes recorded in recovery of big towns in the Northeast were due to deployment of new strategies, improved disciplinary measures, and sincerity of participating countries in the regional alliance and the acquisitions of latest equipment. ”In the past, colonels have led direct attacks in accordance with military tradition, but because of the large scale desertions recorded, Generals then decided to directly lead the war and this has greatly boosted morale. ”Many of the troops that earlier deserted have returned while others have expressed desire to return to the front.”

•President Goodluck Jonathan (second left) in a handshake with the President, Catholic Bishop Conference of Nigeria, Archbishop Ignatius Kaigama, after the mass proceeding the Bishop’s Conference in Abuja…yesterday. With them (on the from row) are, Archbishop of Abuja, John Cardinal Onaiyekan (left), Papal Nuncio, Archbishop Augustine Kasujja (second right) and Senate President David Mark.

Babalola bags University of London award By Adegunle Olugbamila

•Chief Babalola

MINENT lawyer Chief Afe Babalola (SAN) is to be conferred with the honourary Doctor of Law (LLD) by the University of London. Chief Babalola will be receiving his 12th honourary doctorate from the foremost British

university at the Barbican Centre in London, March 11. The Federal University of Technology Akure (FUTA) gave the eminent lawyer his 11th honorary doctorate on December 20, last year. Chief Babalola has practised law for over 50 years, handling landmark cases at the Supreme Court . He is the first African to get the LLD of the London University in the 179 years of the institution. Former South African President Nelson Mandela was in 1996 conferred with honorary doctorate in Economics by the university. Archbishop DesContinued on page 47

Jega meets NSA team, others today on state of security

NDEPENDENT National Electoral Commission (INEC) Chairman Prof. Attahiru Jega will today hold a stock-taking meeting with a team from the Office of the National Security Adviser, the military and para-military organisations on security, for the general elections. Today’s session with the military is the first since the were postponed on February 7. The elections will now hold on March 28 and April 11. A top source in INEC, who

From Yusuf Alli, Abuja

spoke in confidence with our correspondent, said: “We are holding an Inter-agency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES) session to update ourselves on the state of the nation’s security and the electoral commission’s preparedness. “This is the first meeting we are having since the polls shift due to security reasons. All the parties will lay the cards on the table and consider what still Continued on page 47

Falana (second left) speaking at the news conference...yesterday. With him from left are: Ugwumadu, Suraj and Adeniran. PHOTO: SOLOMON ADEOLA

Interim Govt is treasonable, says President at mass

RESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan should call his supporters and aides to order, Catholic Archbishop of Abuja John Cardinal Onaiyekan, said yesterday in his review of the political activities in the country. Many Nigerians are worried about the manner government officials and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) campaign Council members have been heating up the polity. Contrary to President Jonathan’s statements, his campaign team has been pillorying the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and its chairman Prof. Attahiru Jega. Some of the President’s supporters have been making inflammatory statements, including saying Dr Jonathan must win the elections or the nation will burn. But the President has always insisted that his ambition is not worth the blood of anyone. Yesterday, the President said he would not be part of any Interim Government, an idea he described as treasonable and alien to the Constitution. He also affirmed that

Activists warn against tenure extension Continued from page 1

out in six weeks. “Since the operations was limited to 14 local governments, there is no basis for not holding elections in the remaining 760 local government areas in the federation and the six area councils in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT),” he said. From Augustine Ehikioya, Abuja

the March 28 and April 11 dates picked for the general elections will remain sacrosanct. Dr. Jonathan and Cardinal Onaiyekan spoke at the opening mass for the plenary Assembly of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria at Our Lady Queen of Nigeria Pro-Cathedral, Garki, Abuja. The President said he would not head an Interim Government, which can only be set up by a military government. Besides, he said an ING will not be acceptable to the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), the Af-

Falana noted that more than two decades ago, the citizenry, led by the progressives extraction of the civil society, protested the manipulation of political transition from military dictatorship to democratic rule. He said anti-democratic forces had always been defeated, noting that in this case, it would not be an exception. “Nigerians will stand hand-in-hand to

rican Union (AU) and the United Nations (UN). He said: “There is no way Goodluck Jonathan, elected by people with clear mandate, will now go and head an Interim Government. The only interim government anybody can constitute is that of the military government which, of course, will not be accepted. “ECOWAS, AU, UN won’t accept it. And Nigeria will not be a pariah state. Clearly, the insinuation of interim government to me is treasonable.” Stressing that the postponement of the elections was a blessing in disguise, he said: “Elections will be conducted as scheduled by INEC.” “Look at what happened in

speak with one voice against electoral terrorism, against any further polls’ shift, against the introduction of an Interim Government, against any military incursion in politics, against corruption and against the devaluation of the national currency. “We call on Nigerians to come out in large numbers to assert and take control of their destiny,” he stressed.

Gombe on February 14… If the elections had been held, the casualty figure after that attack in Gombe would have been great. It is better for us to conduct elections that will not be contested, elections that are credible, free and fair. ”We believe no criminal element can come and prevent us from conducting our elections. I will not do anything because of personal interest; that would jeopardise the interest of this nation. Jonathan also faulted utterances that overheat the polity

and portray Nigeria as being at a point of going up in flames. “When I listen to how some of us politicians talk... but God is supreme, this nation will survive”, he said. He also thanked Christians for the prayers for the nation, adding that the whole world was going crazy because of the bloodshed by terrorist groups, including Boko Haram. Cardinal Onaiyekan urged President Jonathan to call his aides and supporters to order so that they will desist from poisoning his resolve that elec-

CORRECTION The headline of the story on Nigerian equities on page 29 should read (Nigerian equities gain N600b on 20,805 deals) and not N600 as reported.—Editor

tions will hold on the new dates – March 28 and April 11 - set by INEC and to ensure that the May 29 inauguration of a new government remains sacrosanct. According to the Archbishop, personal insults and caricature should give way to national discourse that will benefit all. He said: “Good families make a good nation. We can go even further to state that a good nation should be a family of families. The diversity of our nation is well known. But that is no reason why we cannot see ourselves as belonging to the same national family. “Apart from the fact that the things we have in common far outweigh our differences, even those differences need not be causes for conflict and friction. If we acquire the habit of respecting one another, then our differences can become beauty to celebrate in harmony. “Politics is very much in the air. It is a notable and sacred Continued on page 47

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THE NATION MONDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2015

NEWS

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Firm condemns PDP’s ‘smear campaign’ against PTF

FIRM of management consultants, the AfriProjects Consortium, has condemned what it described as a smear campaign by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to discredit the achievements of the Petroleum (Special) Trust Fund (PTF). The firm, a PTF consultant for four years, said a statement credited to the Director of Media and Publicity of the PDP Presidential Campaign Organisation, Chief Femi Fani-Kayode, contained “irresponsible slander” against the firm and its director, the late Salihijo Ahmad. Fani-Kayode was quoted as saying that the late Ahmad was “the witness that could have nailed Buhari about the graft that took place at

By Joseph Jibueze

PTF…but died under mysterious circumstances.” The firm, in a statement by its partners, Alhaji Nuruddeen Rafindadi, Alhaji Murtala Aliyu, Mr. A. Dahiru and Amina Mohammed, said after painstaking investigations, Afri-Projects and its workers were never found to have behaved in an unprofessional manner in its dealings with the defunct PTF. It said contrary to FaniKayode’s claim, Ahmad died in Abuja on July 5, 1999 of complications from a longstanding heart ailment. The firm said members of PTF’s Board of Trustees were “persons of towering character and esteem”, including the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential candidate

Gen. Muhammadu Buhari, the late Mallam Yahaya Gusau, the late Alhaji Ahmed Talib, the late Chief Rufus Giwa, Prof. J. P. Clark, the late Prof. Chimere Ikoku, the late Chief D. B. Zang and the late Chief Tayo Akpata. It noted that after President Olusegun Obasanjo scrapped PTF in June 1999, he set up an Interim Management Committee (IMC), headed by Dr. Haroun Adamu, to wind it up. “The IMC went into a frenzy of investigation of the PTF operations and submitted a report in early 2000. That Haroun Adamu’s report, which is now being referred to, was a report lacking in credibility and undertaken with the preconceived notion of uncovering imaginary ‘sleaze’ by any means.

“For instance, the committee report accused our firm of over-invoicing our professional fees, and recommended a refund, whereas we had charged an amount less than 1.5 per cent of the total value of PTF projects and programmes under our management, which is a very low charge by any professional fee standard. “In March 2000, President Obasanjo in disgust disbanded the Haroun Adamu-led committee for incompetence among other reasons. “Several hundreds of millions of Naira of public funds stolen from the PTF were actually recovered from some members of that committee. Indeed, there were indictments, court trials and convictions of the affected

Haroun Adamu’s committee members,” the firm said. According to Afri-Projects, two other committees were set up to continue the investigation of the defunct PTF, and a final report was submitted by a former Police Affairs Minister Malam Adamu Waziri. “Not only were all our responses affirmed, but the government team also accepted the validity of our outstanding fees. Part of these fees was approved and subsequently paid. “The PTF certainly underwent some of the most rigorous investigations carried out on any agency, particularly with a fixed mindset to uncover ‘sleaze’ that was not there,” the firm said. It added that none of

Nigeria GDP slides in fourth quarter, says Bureau of Statistics

HE National Bureau of Statistics has said the nation’s economy grew by 5.94 per cent on an aggregate basis in the fourth quarter of last year, a decrease of 0.28 per cent from the 6.23 per cent recorded in the third quarter of the year. In the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) report for the 2014 fourth quarter released in Abuja yesterday, the bureau said the growth rate was also lower by 0.83 per cent when compared to the corresponding period of 2013. The report said: “When measured by the Real GDP, the economy grew by 5.94 per cent (year-on-year) on an aggregate basis in the fourth quarter of 2014.

From Tony Akowe, Abuja

“This was lower by 0.83 percentage points from rates recorded in the fourth quarter of 2013, and lower by 0.28 percentage points from the third quarter of 2014. From the third quarter of 2014, the economy grew by 3.84 per cent in quarter four. “The nominal GDP at basic prices for the fourth quarter of 2014 was estimated at N24, 205, 863.34 million, up 13.10 per cent from N21,401,519.78 million estimated for the corresponding quarter of 2013 and 5.55 per cent from N22,933,144.01 million recorded in the third quarter of 2014.” The report classified the

economy into two output sectors, oil and non-oil sectors, with the oil sector experiencing production and price challenges in the quarter under review. It said: “Despite this, aver-

age daily production of crude oil was recorded at 2.18 million barrels per day (mbpd), an increase from 2.16 mbpd recorded in the fourth quarter of 2013 and from the 2.15 mbpd recorded in third quar-

ter of the year 2014. “The oil sector also grew by 1.18 per cent in the fourth quarter of 2014 - 10.54 percentage points higher than the decline of 9.36 percent recorded in the fourth quarter of 2013.”

Ministry: no bird flu in Obasanjo farms

HE Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development has dismissed a media report claiming that bird flu has attacked Obasanjo’s farm. The ministry described the write-up as “a false alarm, a misleading assertion and an attempt to exaggerate the bird flu outbreaks within the nation beyond proportion so as to set off undue panic”. The ministry claimed that following the report, the Minister of Agriculture, Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, dispatched the Federal Director of Veterinary Services and his workers to ascertain the facts on the ground. He also contacted Ogun State Commissioner of Agriculture Ronke Sokefun to get the state ministry to verify the veracity of the said publication. “Based on thorough investigation of the published outbreak, which did not emanate from any of the official channels of bird flu reporting, it has been found that no such outbreak occurred. “The Federal Ministry of Agriculture, therefore, hereby appeals to the general public to disregard the reported bird flu case(s) on Obasanjo Farms,” the ministry stated.

•Nobel laureate Prof. Wole Soyinka (left) signing the Women Arise Signature Campaign on Stop Violence Against Persons, #Stopvap. With him is President, Women Arise & Campaign for Democracy Dr. Joe Okei-Odumakin.

APC renews call for probe of Ekiti alleged audio rigging tape

HE All Progressives Congress (APC) has renewed its call for a comprehensive probe of the alleged Ekiti audio rigging tape released by an army captain who recorded it. Its National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, in a statement in Lagos yesterday, said it was wrong for anyone to label the tape a fake without a forensic investigation. The party noted that the issues exposed by the tape were too grievous to be swept under the carpet or dismissed on the basis of nothing, but gross partisanship. The investigation, APC stated, was necessary because of the alleged role the military played in the whole rigging scenario, and against the

background of the court ruling against the deployment of troops for elections. ‘’If the government officials and politicians, whose voices were heard on the tape are not interested in clearing their names, what about the military institution that was dragged into the show of shame? Has the integrity of the military not been compromised by the alleged role of a general and hundreds of his troops in the rigging saga?’’ APC queried. The inconsistency of the Federal Government’s response to the whole saga, the party added, has exposed its underbelly and made it more urgent for a forensic investigation of the tape to be carried out. “First, those whose voices were heard on the tape rushed

to deny there was any such meeting. Later, after they were confronted with a preponderance of evidence, they started owning up one by one, starting with Police Affairs Minister Jelili Adesiyan, then Minister of State for Defence Musiliu Obanikoro and then Ekiti Governor Ayodele Fayose, even though they all denied the meeting was about rigging. Of course, Nigerians know better. “But these men, on the basis of their initial denial, are no longer credible as far as the rigging tape is concerned, hence it is necessary to have an independent investigation of the whole issue,” it said. APC said while President Goodluck Jonathan had rushed to dismiss the authenticity of the tape, telling the

Wall Street Journal “it’s all fabrications”, his campaign spokesman Femi Fani-Kayode said the exact opposite: “We have listened to the audio clip and we make bold to say that the discussion that took place in it did not make any mention of any form of rigging in the Ekiti State governorship election and neither did it contain any evidence of any conspiracy to rig.” The statement queried: “Can anyone listen to a nonexistent audio tape? This confusion in the government circles is the clearest indication yet that they were so panicked by the revelation that they could not fashion out a coherent response to it, hence the discordant notes by the major culprits and their oga at the top! ‘’We sympathise with

them, but we are more worried about the effect this revelation will have on a respectable national institution as the military, which was dragged into the rigging mess. This is why even the military itself must carry out its own investigation. “If an Army General could be so bullied into submission by political partisans, to the point where he said he will cry, what will they not do to any other military officer or men? Does this whole rigging saga not call into question the role of the military in elections?” The party vowed not to allow the issue to be swept under the carpet in the interest of the nation, praising the media and the citizenry for sustaining the discourse on the rigging tape.

its workers was ever indicted for wrongdoing. “We wish to state that our firm, Afri-Projects Consortium, related with the defunct PTF in a professional and principled manner. We provided consultancy services spanning four years, involving over 350 highly skilled professional and support staff, at offices and sites located all over the country. “We discharged our services to PTF conscientiously giving our best and after its scrapping stayed around and engaged to give account of our services and we did so creditably and satisfactorily. “That was what our sense of duty dictated to us; it is what the late Salihijo Ahmad would have wished us to do,” the firm added.

Minister: Jonathan has no plan to rig polls From Tony Akowe, Abuja

NATIONAL Planning Minister Dr. Abubakar Sulaiman has said the President Goodluck Jonathan administration is doing everything possible to ensure free and fair general elections. The administration, Sulaiman said, had no plan to rig the elections. The minister, who spoke at a reception organised in his honour by the Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Abuja, described Jonathan as a leader with “a large heart”. Sulaiman, who was a lecturer in the institution before his appointment as minister, said: “This administration is working and the evidence is there. I will continue to do more for the university and I can do better. If you truly like me, vote to return Goodluck Jonathan. “One thing we should all know is that Jonathan does not have plans to rig himself back. If he had or has that plan, he would not have appointed Jega (INEC), an activist as the INEC Chairman. Even on my appointment, Mr. President demonstrated a large heart. “I was an active unionist during my days as a university lecturer. I led a protest against the then sitting vice chancellor, which we carried up to the government level. Yet, Mr. President decided, devoid of any sentiment, to appoint me a minister. It takes one with a large heart to do that.” He told the gathering that under Jonathan, 14 Federal universities were built across the geo-political zones, adding that it was a great height achieved in the country’s educational development. The university’s Vice Chancellor, Prof. Mike Adikwu, hailed Sulaiman for putting the university first in the course of discharging his duties as a minister. He said: “Dr. Sulaiman has lived up to his billings as an academic in the Federal Executive Council and has also made the university proud as his constituency”

THE NATION MONDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2015

NEWS

•From left: Dr. Patrick Okpah; Dr. Yemisi Kuforiji; former Bishop of Lokoja Diocese, Anglican Communion, Rt. Rev. George Bako; distinguished Old Boy and Chairman, Board of Trustees, Old Grammarians Society, Pa Akintola Williams; Mrs. Jumoke Bako; Mr. Modupe Alakija; distinguished Old Boy and donor, Alakija Boys Hostel, Prof, Femi Williams (distinguished Old Boy), Amb, Dapo Fafowora (former president, Old Grammarians’ Society), Mr. Toyin Akin Johnson (president, Old Grammarians’ Society), Hon. Justice Olayinka Faji (distinguished Old Boy and Chairman - Board of Governors, C.M.S Grammar School), Ven. Tunde Oduwole (distinguished Old Boy and Principal, C.M.S Grammar School and Mr Tunde Esomojumi when Pa Williams led the team to his alma matter in Lagos...at the weekend. PHOTO: SOLOMON ADEOLA

I never said I won’t seek second term, says Jonathan

RESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan has claimed that he was quoted out of context in the statement he made on running for only a single term. He spoke when he had an interactive session with Islamic clerics from the Southwest region at the State House, Marina, Lagos. “I need to clarify this; otherwise I do not need to talk about it. This matter continues to come up,’’ the President said. Jonathan said those who had been playing the tape where it was shown that he had pledged to run only a single term had not been sincere. The President said what happened was that the late President Umaru Yar’Adua came out with political reforms when he, Jonathan was the vice president. Jonathan added that he was the chairman of the interparty committee set up by the late Yar’Adua to agree on the President’s proposal for a single tenure. He said the statement he made in Addis Ababa was within the context of the proposal. “I made that statement in Addis Ababa, when I addressed Nigerians. I made that statement after I had won elections,’’ the President said. Jonathan said he told the audience in Addis that that recommendation would move the country forward. The President said: “I was advising Nigerians in Addis Ababa and I made mention of this issue of seven years of single tenure as being the best for the country. “I now added that if Nigerians will agree to run a single tenure of seven years, I will not contest. That was the statement I made.’’ He added that he still believed in that recommendation to prevent the waste of resources during re-election bids of incumbents. Jonathan said the section of the broadcast which featured former President Olusegun Obasanjo took place in 2011 during the PDP presidential primary. He said that he did not want to join issues with Obasanjo because the party members were there for primaries and “I just wanted to win my primaries”. The President reaffirmed his earlier stand that if Nigerians accepted his proposal of a single-term of seven years, he would not re-contest. “Those who are advertising on television that I said I was not going to contest a second tenure should play the whole tape.’’ Jonathan said people were diminishing the office of the president because of politics. He said that even with the past campaign for the 2015 polls almost concluded, if Nigerians would accept that single tenure of seven years, he would not bother to contest the election. He thanked the clerics for giving him the opportunity to clarify the statement and urged them to continue to pray for the unity and prosperity of the country.

Wema Bank gets four directors

EMA Bank Plc has announced the appointment of four new directors to its board. The new directors, it said in a statement, include Abolanle Matel-Okoh and Mr. Babatunde Kasali as non-executive directors; Mrs. Folake Sanu and Mr. Wole Akinleye as executive directors. This brings to 14 the number of directors on the board. Speaking on the appointments, Managing Director, Wema Bank Plc, Segun Oloketuyi, expressed confidence that the four appointments will bring quality representation to the board as

By Collins Nweze

well as support the management of the bank in its drive to build upon its recent achievements while positioning itself for further growth. The bank CEO also praised the outgoing director, Mr. Ramesh Hathiramani, for his immense contributions during his time on the board. The lender explained that the new directors come with over 10 decades of combined experience and have made significant contributions to the banking industry and the growth of the nation’s economy.

NIMASA, APC battle over ‘hate campaign’ against Buhari Party: we’ll meet you in court T T HE Director-General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr. Ziakede Akpobolokemi, has issued a 72-hour ultimatum to the All Progressives Congress Campaign Organisation (APCPCO) to retract its allegation that the agency sponsored hate campaign against Gen. Muhammadu Buhari, the APC presidential candidate or face legal action. Akpobolokemi, who also demanded apology from APCPCO, said failure to meet these conditions, he and the agency would use lawful means to seek redress. But, the APC has dismissed the threat of litigation, preferring to meet in court with the agency. The NIMASA boss, who addressed a news conference in Lagos yesterday, said: “We have instructed our solicitors to give our accusers the opportunity of retracting their unfounded allegations, failing which we shall take all necessary steps to seek redress.” He noted that attempts have been made by the APCPCO and individuals to impugn the integrity of NIMASA and its management. The campaign, he said, was intended to cast aspersions on

HE All Progressives Congress (APC) Presidential Campaign Organisation (APCPCO) has urged the management of Nigeria Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) to go to court over allegation of sponsoring hate messages against its presidential candidate, General Muhammadu Buhari. The APC dismissed the threat of litigation against it by NIMASA over allegations that the maritime agency was behind the sponsoring of the hate campaigns against the APC presidential candidate on African Independent Television (AIT) and the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) stations. The APC campaign had said that it had evidence that the agency was responsible for the hate messages against General Buhari in the media, saying such act negated the law setting up the agency. Reacting to a 72 hours ultimatum by the agency demanding a retraction of the report and an apology, the Director, Media and Publicity of APCPCO, Garba Shehu, said the APC would present credible witnesses in court to prove its By Leke Salaudeen and Oluwakemi Dauda

the activities and integrity of NIMASA as a responsible corporate entity. “No amount of smear campaign by the APC or any other body for that matter will divert us from our committed course and vision of bequeathing a robust maritime

From Tony Akowe, Abuja

case and the fact that the maritime agency had since transformed into a campaign outpost for the PDP. The statement said: “There are several acts of the management that are at variance with the objectives and scope of activities of the agency as spelled out under the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency Act, 2007. “NIMASA Act does not envisage the involvement of the agency in political campaign. It certainly has no provision for hate campaigns against Buhari, nor does it allow for the funding of the activities of the Transformation Ambassadors of Nigeria (TAN). “NIMASA is trying to reduce this to a campaign issue, but the truth is that the conversion of a statutory government agency into one actively promoting partisan political actions of the president is of national significance. It assumes a more serious dimension when staff are denied their dues and money shipped out to fund illegal activities”.

safety administration to generations unborn,” he said Asked about his relationship with ex-militant leader, Government Ekpemupolo (a.k.a. Tompolo), Akpobolokemi said: “Nobody can determine my friend. It is the choice of an individual to determine his friend. I have a choice of determining who my friends are. Tompolo and

I are from Niger Delta”. Responding to the allegation that Tompolo owns Global West, a company that won the contract for waterways security, he said: “If you want to know who owns the company, go to Corporate Affairs Office. If Tompolo’s company has the capacity to do the job, why must we deny him? Is he not a Nigerian?”

APC to Jonathan: obey order on keeping soldiers off polls

HROUGH its zonal publicity secretaries, the All Progressives Congress (APC) has urged the Federal Government to respect the rulings of the Federal High Court and the Appeal Court not to deploy the military for elections’ monitoring. The zonal spokesman, under the auspices of the Conference of APC State Publicity Secretaries (CAPS), said the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)-controlled Federal Government should pull the brake on going ahead with its plan to use soldiers during the rescheduled general elections on February 28 and April 11. They spoke through a statement by the coordinators from

the six geo-political zones and their chairman Mr. Joe Igbokwe. They also include Mr. Jonathan Vatsa (Northcentral Coordinator); Rev Phineas Padio (Northeast Coordinator); Yahaya Bashir (Northwest Coordinator); Okelo Madukaife (Southeast Coordinator); Mr Sola Lawal (Southwest Coordinator); and Fortune Panebi (Southsouth Coordinator). According to the spokesmen, the Federal Government should brace for the consequences of going against the ruling of the high court and the appellate court. The statement reads: “The Conference of APC State Publicity Secretaries (CAPS) here-

by warns the PDP-controlled Federal Government to retreat from the beaten path of abusing the established and growing institutions of democracy or be prepared to take responsibility for any artificial action triggered by its excesses. “We are concerned here about the kite flown by the Federal Government to disregard a ruling of the Court of Appeal that it is unlawful to deploy soldiers for the conduct of elections of any form in the country. “Our party organs made it loud and clear before the June 21 and August 9, 2014 governorship elections in Ekiti and Osun states that the PDP was poised to abuse the use of the military, by deploying the soldiers for

•Dr. Jonathan

the purpose of compromising the process. “This turned out to be true and prophetic, as leaders of the APC were massively arrested by the soldiers and not released till elections were over. The leaders arrested included booth, ward and collating agents, who had sensitive roles to play in the election.

THE NATION MONDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2015

NEWS I’m not returning to PDP, says SDP candidate

Lagos Assembly reconvenes today By Oziegbe Okoeki

HE Lagos State House of Assembly will reconvene plenary today. On resumption, the Assembly is expected to deliberate on some pending bills and reports. In a statement, the Clerk, Olusegun Abiru, urged the lawmakers, especially Chairmen of Standing Committees and Ad-hoc Committees, who have pending bills and reports, to conclude work on them so that the House could deliberate on them on resumption. The House adjourned indefinitely on January 7 to enable members take part in political campaigns for the February elections, which the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) postponed by six weeks to March/ April.

From Bisi Oladele, Ibadan

HE governorship candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, has denied claims that he is planning to return to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). He said the claim was unfounded, stressing that he was in the SDP to effect a change in the state, if elected. This came as he observed that the PDP would have to do much to remain as a party, if it survived the present implosion. Makinde was among the top contenders for the PDP governorship ticket but defected to the SDP when confronted with perceived injustice, the same factor that drove another governorship aspirant and a former governor, Adebayo Alao-Akala, from the party. The governorship hopeful said he had forgotten everything that happened in his former party, maintaining that the survival of PDP would have to be worked upon to enable it retain its status as a formidable party. Makinde said: “The government we intend to run under the SDP is the one that will place Oyo State on the worldmap of development and reenact the glorious era referred to above which earned us the sobriquet ‘pace-setter’. “By the time the people of Oyo State vote for us and we receive the mandate to govern this state, the difference will be clear between us and those who have held the position in the past, it will clearly show that ours is a government of mission and vision.” On the choice of his party’s presidential candidate, he said the choice “is not about any party, but about the people. We make a lot of mistakes as politicians, appropriating to ourselves the power of life and death”. “We forget most of the time that those of us in politics in the true sense of it are just about 10 per cent of the population, so, how come that our small number will determine who and who gets what at the broad level? “In short, whatever the choice of any party, the ultimate power lies with the people and that’s the beauty of democracy, so leave the generality of Nigerians to adopt whoever they want and vote accordingly.”

•From right: Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola; General Manager, TERA AND PICO Construction Limited, Shehu AbdulKadir and former Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) Abdullahi Binuyo during an inspection tour to the A.U.D Elementary School, Inisha... at the weekend.

Stop giving Jonathan credit, Ajimobi tells Akinjide O

YO State Governor Abiola Ajimobi has warned the Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Ms. Jumoke Akinjide and the Accord Party governorship candidate, Rashidi Ladoja, to stop appropriating his administration’s effort to the Presidency. His statement followed the minister’s claim that the Federal Government helped the state secure a $200 million World Bank loan for the Urban Flood Management Project (IUFMP). Ms. Akinjide had urged the people to vote for Jonathan because the Federal Government helped the state access the $200 million World Bank loan to combat floods; Ladoja said the government should complete the Apete bridge with the loan. But in a statement by the Deputy Chief of Staff to the Governor, who also doubles as the Government Team Leader for the IUFMP Credit, Abimbola Adekanmbi, the governor described Akinjide’s claim as akin to appropriating the state’s effort while describing Ladoja’s claim as “extreme and acute illiteracy” about government policy. Ajimobi said: “The Federal Government never facilitated any loan for the Oyo State

NAFDAC sanctions 1,000 in Oyo

HE outgoing Oyo State Coordinator of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Rev. Benjamin Haruna, has said in the last six years, the agency sanctioned over 1000 individuals for unregistered products, sales of fake products, parallel importation and unsatisfactory factory productions. Haruna, the agency’s director, Chemical, Cosmetics and Medical Devices, Ports Authority, Lagos, said this at his send off in Ibadan. “During the six years that I was the state coordinator, we penalised not less than 1,000 people for offences stipulated by the agency. “The challenges encountered when we came in some years back was that there wasn’t much awareness about the activities of the agency, so we have to reach out to the people at the grassroots. “We also have logistics problem, we did not have enough vehicles before. We were also short of staff when I came in because we had six workers then but now we have 22. Another challenge is the small office space we have now for our staff and equipment. “We established the agency’s desk officers in each local government, we ensure massive awareness, collaboration with necessary organisations and sanctioned people found culpable.”

From Bisi Oladele and Tayo Johnson, Ibadan

government. It is a shame that Ladoja and his surrogate in the Goodluck Jonathan government, Ms. Akinjide, could connive to mislead the people to score cheap propaganda for the President. “As a direct result of the devastation from the August 26, 2011 flood in Ibadan wherein hundreds of lives were lost and property and means of livelihood worth several billions of Naira were destroyed, the governor personally approached the World Bank on September 6, 2011 for financial support to address the various infrastructural challenges that arose from the flood and to also mitigate against a recurrence. “He made a power-point presentation to officials of the bank who, impressed by his presentation, said they were pleasantly shocked that an Oyo governor could be that articulate, stating that they had long abandoned the state believing it had ‘left the radar of development.’ “In line with the World Bank procedure, the state

government had to formalise the request for the financing through the Federal Ministry of Finance as was the practice. The entire credit arose from efforts to mitigate effects of the flood and to prevent/ lessen any recurrence and should ordinarily be one that is insulated from politicisation, such as the junior minister is engaging in. “Having obtained the World Bank go-ahead to begin preparation of the project, the state government, among other things, spent over N50million to conduct several studies and other preparatory activities including the setting up of a Project Implementation Unit (PIU) to secure the approval of the World Bank Board for the required credit facility. “The bank’s board approval was granted on June 17, last year, following the negotiation meeting between the state and the World Bank Team at the bank’s Country Office, Abuja, on May 6, last year. “The Federal Executive Council ‘s approval, which was granted on November 5, last year, was to formalise the

credit as this is the practice when any state is obtaining such credit facility.” Providing the relevant credit data on the project, the governor said aside the total credit facility, which is $200million, the government’s counterpart contribution was $20million, stating that the project moratorium was five years. The statement also added that all credit effectiveness conditions had been met by the state and the project was waiting to be declared effective by the World Bank. According to the governor, the role of the Federal Government in the transaction was purely to provide sovereign guarantee as required by the World Bank and not a gesture of the love of the President for the people “as garrulously gloated on by the junior minister and in no way did the Federal Government provide a single kobo towards the credit”. Chiding Akinjide for this unbecoming act, Ajimobi said even a primary school pupil would be able to differentiate between the above developmental project and the Lagos- Ibadan Expressway quoted by Ms. Akinjide as achievement by the Federal Government.

‘Fake video’: Osun APC urges Omisore HE All Progressives to accept reality Congress (APC) in Osun

State has told the governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Osun State, Senator Iyiola Omisore, to accept the reality of the Justice Elizabeth Ikpejime’s tribunal verdict on the election. The party condemned a “concocted video clip” circulated last week in Abuja by Omisore’s agents and the PDP to suggest that the APC rigged the August 9 governorship election. The APC described as “delusional”, Omisore’s optimism that the video will make any difference to the worthlessness of his case at the Court of Appeal. In a statement by its spokesperson, Kunle Oyatomi, the party said: “Omisore’s delusional ambition to become governor is seriously affecting his ability to face the reality that he lost the election. “The verdict by the people was and still stands, despite

From Adesoji Adeniyi, Osogbo

the terrorism of state security forces unleashed on the voters and the vile propaganda which the PDP had mounted since 2011 till date.” According to the party, the case Omisore argued for 180 days at the tribunal was meticulously dismantled in a landmark judgment that lasted over seven hours by the three-man panel, which struck it out as unworthy. The APC wondered what would have gone wrong with Omisore and the PDP with this so-called video clip evidence that they could have presented at the tribunal but failed to do so. “The reason that video was not presented to the tribunal, in the first instance, was because it was fake. If the PDP lawyers rested the worthless video because it could not fly at the tribunal, what banal reasoning would have in-

formed the PDP spin doctors now making silly noises about it as a publicity material? Did this fellow (Omisore) seriously think that the Court of Appeal will accommodate this after-thought? The party said it had got wind of the production of the particular video since last November and had informed security forces accordingly. “That video is the product of PDP’s sordid imagination to accuse others of what it had been caught doing in Ekiti State. It was sheer baloney and a valueless attempt to mitigate the effect of the audio evidence of how politicians, government officials and some top uniformed men used the security apparatus of state to rig election for the PDP in Ekiti State. Only the PDP and some of its unreasonable supporters are entertained by such childishness,” the APC said.

‘Stop using govt vehicles to convey drugs’ From Damisi Ojo, Akure

HE National Drugs Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Ondo State has warned missionary organisations and government agencies against the use of their vehicles for conveyance of illicit drugs, especially Indian hemp. The state commander, Ibrahim Abdul, said vehicles belonging to religious organisations and government agencies were often used to carry illicit drugs. Abdul said a large plantation of Indian hemp was recently destroyed by NDLEA officials. According to him, the agency arrested 30 persons for various alleged drug offences in various parts of the state. The state commander said the agency would monitor all government vehicles henceforth.

‘Vote for my husband’ From Jeremiah Oke, Abeokuta

IFE of the governorship candidate of the People Democratic Party (PDP) in Oyo State Mrs. Angela Folarin has begged women to vote for her husband. She said it is only her husband who can protect and defend their rights. Mrs. Folarin, who spoke when she visited Ibadan North-East Local Government, advised women to actively participate in the electoral processes, saying it was time for them to compete favourably with their male counterparts for elective positions. She urged the electorate to be wary of lies and deceit of opposition parties, adding that they could not guarantee their freedom. Mrs. Folarin also solicited support of women to support President Goodluck Jonathan’s re-election, describing him as the most women friendly president in the annals of Nigeria democratic history. She noted that it is only president Jonathan who can guarantee the 35 percent affirmative action for women which he has been implementing since he became president. “I want to once again, urge you to continue to give support to the PDP candidate, who has shown that he is not only gender sensitive but believes in the power and capacity of women to bring about change in society.”

THE NATION MONDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2015

NEWS I’m fulfilled, says governor

NDO State Governor Olusegun Mimiko has said his dream of bridging the gap between children of the rich and the poor has been fulfilled in the state’s education sector. Mimiko said this at the weekend at the inauguration of the 50th Caring Heart Mega School built by his administration. The event was part of the sixth anniversary of the Mimiko-led administration. Commissioner for Information Kayode Akinmade said 17 mega primary schools in Odigbo, Oka, Ondo, Oke Agbe, Ifon and Ijare communities, among others, will be inaugurated with completed classrooms.

The mega schools come with free school buses, uniforms, sandals, bags, books, alluring architecture, electromagnetic chalk boards and computer laboratories with 50 internet-ready computers for Type 1 schools. Inaugurating the Caring Heart Sub-urban Mega Primary School Isokan in Akure at the weekend, Mimiko noted that gone were the days when children of the less privileged are deprived of access to ICT tools, until they get to tertiary institutions. He praised President Goodluck Jonathan for his favourable disposition to uplifting education, particularly for building about 130 Almajiri schools in the North.

Ogun builds three bridges

HE Ogun State government will build three bridges on Imeko Afon and Agosasa- Ipokia roads. These narrow bridges, which had claimed many lives and property over the years, are situated at Odo-Oyo and Afon on Imeko-Afon Road in Imeko-Afon Local Government and at Odo-Oniru in Agosasa, Ipokia Local Government Area. Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure Olamilekan Adegbite, who announced this during an in-

spection of the bridges, said the works are being done by contractors, who are experts in bridge construction. Adegbite said Amosun decided to end unnecessary waste of lives and property on the three axes by immediately awarding the contracts and mobilising contractors to sites. He added that building the bridges has started in earnest, saying that the bridges would have four carriage lanes each to give enough space for vehicles.

Lawmaker praises Tinubu

HE national leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has been described as a political oracle. The APC candidate for the Lagos State House of Assembly, Alimosho 01, Adebisi Abdul’ Raman Yusuf, said Tinubu had predicted the nation’s political situation. “I give kudos to our amiable leader for his foresight in Nigerian politics. He sees ahead of others and works immediately to achieve his goals, carrying everybody along. “He is an oracle personified because whatever steps he takes are in the right direction and they always come into manifestation. See how the emergence of Buhari as our presidential candidate has continued to set the camp of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on fire.”

Oke: I’m not answerable to Mimiko

RESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan’s re-election bid has caused a “rift” between Ondo State Governor Olusegun Mimiko and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in the 2012 election, Olusola Oke. Oke accused Mimiko of allegedly sponsoring a newspaper publication that he was not fully committed to the state PDP’s presidential campaign team. He said he was not answerable to the governor. Addressing reporters at the weekend in Akure, the state capital, Oke said the publication intended to paint him as a man who is not doing enough for Jonathan’s re-election. The former PDP candidate said the governor has no moral grounds to challenge him on the defection of PDP members to APC, noting that the number of his followers who joined PDP was lesser than the number of Mimiko’s supporters who have joined the opposition. He said: “When the issue of ministerial slot came out after the 2011 general elections, the President gave two slots to the National Working Committee (NWC); one was to come from the South, the one from the North and without debate, the NWC put down my name. “It was this same Mimiko who did everything to frus-

•Governor, party chief battle over Jonathan’s campaign From Leke Akeredolu, Akure

trate my emergence and at the end of the day, he succeeded in picking his sister from the same ward. “This is the first time this will happen in Ondo State that the governor and the minister would come from the same ward. I didn’t complain. “I have maintained silence on the political situation in the country, especially in Ondo State, so that, I am not misunderstood. “Presently, I prefer at this time to work and talk less because I believe that the politics of contemporary Nigeria is not about propaganda it is about interacting with the people, showing them who you are, telling them what you can do, telling them what you have done with your promises and instill confidence in the people. “I am convinced in my mind that the people behind this publication are no other persons than PDP members of Labour Party (LP) extraction and I point all fingers at Governor Mimiko. “I am convinced that he is behind this, it is in his character and nature; a leopard can never change his spots. He is at it again. “He alleged that I have not

‘I am not answerable to Dr. Mimiko. I am a PDP leader in the state and I work independently. I am a leader, he is a leader and we also have other leaders in the state. So, I am not expected to bring a daily report to him about how I work’ been working for the party. First and foremost, I am not answerable to Dr. Mimiko. “I am a PDP leader in the state and I work independently. I am a leader, he is a leader and we also have other leaders in the state. So, I am not expected to bring a daily report to him about how I work. “He believes in propaganda but I believe in interacting with the people. I go from community to community. “For instance, last week, I came home, I met with the youth, the women leaders

and community leaders and I am not a person who jumps around. “I am one person, who has been in the PDP since inception. I am not a joiner. I didn’t go to AD, I didn’t go to LP and I have been here and so no new comer can talk to me on how to work in PDP. “I am the one to educate them about democracy in PDP, about how we behave here. “About how we respect the integrity of people; about how we relate with each other. We in PDP don’t have a headmaster or sole administrator. “It is unfair for anyone to accuse me of romancing with the All Progressives Congress (APC). “I am a politician of national repute. If I have any reason to leave PDP, I will leave. “I have no reason to leave because it is my party. I breathe PDP, dream PDP and I have been in the party for so long. “I am not like others who jump in and out. They jumped in when the weather is good and go out when it is not good. “So, if anyone said I am not working, it is because I am not answerable to them and I am not going to show my testimonial of what I am going to do. I am a believer of the transformation agenda of Mr. President. I am not going to report to any landlord or headmaster.”

‘Another polls shift’ll be too costly’

HE Lagos State Coordinator of the Buhari/Osinbajo Presidential Campaign Organisation, James Faleke, has said the country cannot afford a further postponement of the elections. At a briefing yesterday in Lagos, he said the postponement of the election from February to March was a manipulation by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to undermine the democratic process and wear out the opposition. Faleke, a member of the House of Representatives, said: “We say no to further shift of the goal post in the middle of the game. Beyond the security challenges, PDP wanted to boost its war chest to avert an imminent defeat. “It was to allow the ruling PDP re-strategise and burn

By Musa Odoshimokhe

out the opposition financially since it has the war chest. We know that the bazaar has been on. But one thing is sure, the PDP cannot continue to fool Nigerians all the time.” He said dragging the military institution into partisan politics is unacceptable, noting that the Armed Forces should restrict their operations to the protection of Nigeria’s territorial integrity. Faleke added that those rooting for the military involvement in the election are enemies of the country. “Our appeal to Nigerians, especially all lovers of progress and change, is to get the Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs). The voter card is stronger than the federal might.”

‘No Yoruba summit endorsed Jonathan’

YORUBA group, Yoruba Ronu Leadership Forum, has debunked a claim that a Yoruba summit was held to endorse President Goodluck Jonathan. The group described the claims of Jonathan’s endorsement as vile and an offence to the sensibility of the Yoruba. In a statement yesterday, the Secretary General, Akin Malaolu, further described as “lies” claims of Yoruba endorsement of Jonathan. “It is therefore a fact that there was never a Yoruba summit held at any place in the Southwest to endorse a non-performing President. “The hurried endorsement is vile and offends the sen-

By Seun Akioye

sibility of the people,” Malaolu said. He said the people of Southwest are unhappy with Jonathan’s style and actions. “It would be a perplexing error on his (Jonathan’s) part to accept lies when the generality of our people are helpless and hapless.” The Secretary General said the Yoruba believe that Nigeria should be loved and loyally defended which President Jonathan has failed to do throughout his administration. He said the Yoruba are not in any agreement with the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the 2015 general elections.

•From left: Vice Chairman, All Progressives Congress (APC), Amuwo Odofin Local Government Area of Lagos State, Ayo Ogungbiye; the council’s Chief Imam, Alhaji Yemi Idowu ; its Former Chairman, Ayodele Adewale; the council’s Chairman, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Overseer Elias Aluko, and CAN Secretary, Rapheal Egunjobi, at an interactive session in Amuwo Odofin, Lagos.

Osun labour unions on collision course over strike

HE Trade Union Congress (TUC) and the Joint Negotiation Council (JNC) in Osun State are on a collision course with the Senior Civil Servants Association of Nigeria (SCSAN) over a proposed warning strike. The SCSAN, through its chairman, Akinyemi Olatunji, gave the government a seven-day ultimatum to look into workers’ demands, including payment of salaries arrears or face industrial action. But the chairmen of the TUC and JNC, Francis Adetunji and Bayo Adejumo, warned workers against any

From Adesoji Adeniyi, Osogbo

“illegal strike”, saying anyone who fails to be at his duty post is “on his own”. The duo maintained that the SCSAN, as an affiliate of TUC, has no power to unilaterally ask workers to embark on an industrial action. They maintained that the government has regularly engaged and informed the leadership of the JNC, TUC and Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) on issues bordering on welfare of workers. The duo said: “We are convinced about the sincerity of the government in the face

of dwindling and late payment of federal allocation to the state.” The JNC and the TUC, at a joint briefing at the weekend in Osogbo, the state capital, said there are processes and procedure for going on strike and which only authorised unions could apply. They insisted that SCSAN is an affiliate of the TUC and therefore could not call for workers’ strike alone. The duo said the ultimatum given by the association was not in line with labour law. Saying the state government had explained factors responsible for its inability

to pay salaries as at when due, they urged workers to be considerate in their demands. The labour leaders also noted that most of the issues raised by SCSAN had been resolved by the government. Olatunji has been going from ministry to ministry ,asking workers to join a seven-day warning strike, starting from today. He highlighted the workers’ demands, which include prompt payment of workers’ salaries, promotion and review of contributing pension scheme.

THE NATION MONDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2015

NEWS Polls: CNPP makes case for police From Gbenga Omokhunu, Abuja

IVE weeks to the presidential election, President Goodluck Jonathan is yet to release funds to the police for logistics, the Conference of Nigerian Political Parties (CNPP) has said. The CNPP, after an emergency meeting with top police officers in Abuja at the weekend, appealed to Jonathan to, “in the collective interest of our dear fatherland, fund the police forthwith to enable them fulfil their statutory role of protecting the electoral officials and their materials. “Imagine the mayhem, which will manifest at many polling centres and voting points if the police force is under-equipped,” it said. The coalition threatened to “embark on mass action if the police force is deliberately underfunded, especially as regards the elections”.

How we plan to feed Nigerians, by Dangote Group

HE Dangote Group is confident that with its ongoing agricultural projects, Nigeria is on its way of being self-sufficient in food production. The firm said it was determined to support the Federal Government in its effort to revolutionise the agricultural sector and make Nigeria selfsufficient in food production. Dangote pledged to continue to invest in fertiliser, rice, tomato paste and sugar production, among others. Only last year, the group signed a Memorandum of Association (MoU) with the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development to invest $1 billion for the establishment of fully integrated rice production and processing operations. The statement said the MoU and the planned investment were response to government’s reforms of the Agricultural Transformation Agenda (ATA) launched in 2011. The statement said the company has acquired 150,000 hectares of farmlands in Edo, Jigawa, Kebbi, Kwara and Niger states to be used for commercial production of rice paddy. The company will also establish two modern largescale mills each with capacity to mill 120,000 metric tonnes of rice paddy, while doubling the capacity within two years. The statement said this will become the single largest investment in rice production in Africa. The rice plants estimated to produce 960,000 metric tonnes, representing 46 per cent of total rice imported into Nigeria. Its president Aliko Dangote said during the signing of the MoU that Nigeria “is capable of producing rice that can feed the whole of West African sub region.” A statement from the Dangote Group also said it was investing in tomato paste production in Kano, as well as a $2 billion fertiliser projects in Edo State.

•Members of the All Nigeria Save Democracy Movement protesting the nomination of Senator Musiliu Obanikoro as Minister in Lagos...yesterday

APC: Jonathan driving Nigeria into economic wilderness

HE All Progressives Congress (APC) Presidential Campaign Organisation has accused President Goodluck Jonathan of driving Nigeria into economic wilderness. But the party assured that its presidential candidate, General Muhammadu Buhari, would return the nation to the path of economic recovery. In a statement at the weekend by its Director of Media and Publicity, Mallam Garba Shehu, the APC campaign organisation said Nigerians would enjoy economic succour at the end of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP’s) mismanagement of the economy, especially under the Goodluck Jonathan-led Federal Government. The statement said the approach of the government to the downward slide of the economy had been panicky and uncoordinated. The APC campaign team said: “It is apparent that the Federal Government has suddenly found itself in a bind with plummeting crude oil prices in the international market. But typical of a team that lacks capacity for anticipatory actions, the Federal Government has been running from pillar to post in a vain bid to stabilise the economy.

•‘Buhari on rescue mission’ From Tony Akowe, Abuja

“Unfortunately, all conceived palliatives applied to save the nation’s declining economic indicators have merely scratched the surface of the problems, leaving the mass of Nigerians desperate, confused and hungrier.” The campaign organisation expressed concerns that the nation’s debt profile under Jonathan grew exponentially despite the fact that the country recorded the highest revenue from impressive crude oil prices in a five-year period before the downward spiral of international oil prices. The statement said: “With external debt standing at more than $10 billion and our internal debts at more than $50 billion, it is without doubt that President Jonathan is driving Nigeria into economic wilderness. “This should be a cause for concern to all wellmeaning Nigerians, more so when Federal Government’s responses to the rising economic challenges have, at best, been casual.

“Emblematic of this casual, non-profound approach to the management of the national economy is the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN’s) devaluation of the national currency in November 2014 while retaining the Retail Dutch Auction System (RDAS). “Dramatically, just under three months after that devaluation, the CBN, obviously buffeted by unanticipated dynamics in the foreign exchange market, announced the closure of the RDAS and the Wholesale Dutch Auction System (WDAS). This shows clearly an uncoordinated template in the management of the national economy.” The campaign organisation noted that the mismanagement of the economy by the Federal Government is turning Nigerians into economic derelicts, a people incapable of living up to the required standards of existence. But it assured that help is on the way. The APC team said: “Though we are conscious of the dire economic strait the Federal Government has

pushed Nigerians into, we can assure the mass of Nigerians that help is on the way. “We know that an APCcontrolled Federal Government will obviously inherit a huge debt profile and an empty treasury from this PDP-led Federal Government. We are confident of turning the situation around. “For our presidential candidate, General Buhari, it is a walk back through history. Recall that the Nigerian economy at this time shares the characteristics with the Nigerian economy of 1983, when he took charge of the government on a rescue mission. “The naira was weak, crude oil prices were plummeting, just as the national treasury – coupled with a heavy debt profile. Hopefully, APC will turn the nation’s economy around. “Our party’s economic policies are consciously conceived to be people-centred. For the first time in over three decades, Nigeria will experience a truly pro-people Federal Government. This is our commitment to the mass of our people. Help is on the way. Nigerians should not despair.”

Gunmen abduct Bayelsa traditional ruler

UNMEN have abducted a paramount ruler of Ikeinghenbiri, a coastal community in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, Collins Agikoko. It was learnt that three gunmen stormed the home of the monarch at 2am on Saturday and whisked him away. He was reportedly forced into a waiting speedboat by his assailants, who shot sporadically into the air. A source, who spoke in confidence for security reasons, said: “They arrived the home of the traditional ruler in the early hours of Saturday. “There were three of them. We saw them clearly: two were wearing the uniform of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and the other was wearing a reflective jacket used by young vigilantes. “They fired several warning shots and abducted the monarch. They escaped by a waiting speedboat anchored

•Amaechi’s aide kidnapped in Rivers From Mike Odiegwu, Yenagoa and Bisi Olaniyi, Port Harcourt

at the nearby waterside.” Police spokesman, Mr Asinim Butwat, an Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP), confirmed the incident. He said the police had begun a manhunt for the gunmen to rescue the victim and arrest the culprits. Also, the Commander of the Joint Task Force (JTF), code-named: Operation Pulo Shield, Maj.-Gen. Emmanuel Atewe, assured that the hoodlums would be apprehended. Atewe said the task force had received reports of the incident and alerted its security network in the creeks to fish out the kidnappers. Also, Freddy Ndigbara, a journalist and senior aide to Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi, was kidnapped yesterday in his Kaani-Ogoni hometown in Khana Local Government

Area. Ndigbara, a Press Officer with the Government House Press Corps and a popular Master of Ceremonies (MC), was seized by the gunmen in Ward 6 of the local government when he was covering a rally of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). It was learnt that the gunmen came in a red Toyota Highlander Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) and whisked the journalist, popularly called Freddie, to an unknown destination. His abductors had not demand for a ransom at the time of filing this report last night. His mobile phones rang several times our reporter called them but they were not answered. It was learnt that Ndigbara travelled from Port Harcourt, the state capital, to his hometown yesterday morning to participate in the rally. The organisers were re-

portedly arranging the canopies at the venue when the kidnappers seized the journalist. A former Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Blessing Wikina, an indigene of Kono-Ogoni in the same local government area, said the kidnappers were suspected to be thugs working for the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Wikina also described Ndigbara as a gentleman, who was hardworking and easygoing. The former governor’s aide condemned the abduction. He urged Ndigbara’s abductors to release him immediately and unconditionally. Wikina said: “Ndigbara is a journalist serving the society. Kidnappers should not go near journalists. Journalism is a noble profession. Ndigbara is doing his job. He should be released unharmed, immediately and unconditionally.”

•Gen Buhari

The statement reiterated Gen. Buhari’s commitment to end profligacy, mismanagement of the nation’s revenue, which it said was dwindling daily, and block leakages to save funds to drive an APCled government’s economic and infrastructure development. It added: “It is crystal clear that our revenues are dwindling by the day. If we must survive, we cannot continue on this path of near absence of accountability, mismanagement, outright waste and jamboree that have characterised the management of public resources under the Jonathan-led PDP government. “General Buhari, by his antecedents, will run a lean government that will free resources to be deployed to his envisaged government’s interventions in critical infrastructure and economic development.”

Stakeholders to end strikes in Health sector From Vincent Ikuomola, Abuja

TAKEHOLDERS have agreed to work together to end the incessant strikes in the Health sector, the Supervising Minister for the Federal Ministry of Health, Dr. Khaliru Alhassan, has said. The supervising minister said the era of recurrent strikes by various health unions or groups to push for their demands in the attempt to undermine another group was over. He said this was the consensus of the stakeholders. Alhassan assured that the Federal Government would henceforth ensure industrial harmony in the sector. The sector had witnessed series of actions in the last one year; the last action lasted about two months. The supervising minister spoke at the weekend after a meeting with leaders of the various stakeholders in the Health sector.

THE NATION MONDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2015

NEWS ‘No crisis in Benin Forum’ From Osemwengie Ben Ogbemudia, Benin

HE umbrella body of Bini indigenes in the country and in the Diaspora, led by the Esogban of Benin Kingdom, Chief David Edebiri, the Benin Forum (BF), at the weekend said those peddling the rumour that there was a crisis in the forum were enemies of the ethnic nationality. The Enogie of Obazuwa and younger brother to the Oba of Benin, Prince Edun Akenzua, had said those calling for the resignation of the Esogban as BF’s chairman, lacked the powers to do so because he was nominated by the Benin monarch, Oba Erediuwa. The forum was reacting to a publication in which some persons, who claimed to be members of the forum called on Edebiri to resign for his alleged comments that the Bini would not vote for President Goodluck Jonathan.

Okrika attack: ‘Abide by peace pact’ From Clarice Azuatalam, Port Harcourt

HE Rivers State Directorate of the National Orientation Agency (NOA) has urged the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leadership to abide by the tenets of the peace accord their candidates signed. The NOA was reacting to the attack on APC at its Okrika rally last Tuesday. NOA’s State Acting Director Oliver Wolugbom cautioned politicians against making inflammatory statements. Wolugbom, who described the incident “as a sad reflection of the level of political intolerance in the society”, added that people should be allowed to go about their campaigns without molestation. The NOA director, who spoke at the weekend in Port Harcourt, the state capital, described the perpetrators of the violence as enemies of the state. He said politicians and their supporters should allow peace to reign before, during and after the general elections. Wolugbom hailed Inspector General of Police (IGP) Suleiman Abba for setting up a panel to investigate the incident. The NOA director said the outcome of the investigation should be made public, adding that the culprits should be brought to justice to forestall a recurrence. He said the NOA, through its local government and zonal offices, had begun a series of enlightenment campaigns to educate the electorate on the need for peace and to ensure that they collect their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs). Wolugbom noted that since the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had said the PVCs guarantee eligible voters the right to vote, those without them would not vote. He urged INEC to ensure that eligible and registered voters get their PVCs before the elections.

THE NATION MONDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2015

THE NATION MONDAY, FEBRUARY23, 2015

COMMENTARY EDITORIALS

LETTER

Moment of reckoning •Nigeria now paying for its govt’s insatiable appetite for loans and fiscal indiscipline

WO elements stand out in the 2015 Federal Government budget which, aside being difficult to ignore, speak to the inverted priorities of the Jonathan administration. The first is the capital spend for the year put at N387 billion – a paltry 8.9 percent of the total outlay – (the initial figure announced by the finance minister, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, in her budget presentation last month was N634 billion). The second is the whopping N943 billion voted for debt servicing this year – a figure which comes to more than 20 percent of the N4.357 trillion budget. If it seems necessary to restate the thrust of our earlier editorial on the subject last week, it is that spending 91.1 percent to service the bureaucracy that is at best an indolent one at this time of acute deficit in infrastructure – the critical enablers needed to power the stuttering economy to growth – is, to put it mildly, bad for the political economy. But then, no less confounding is the N943 billion voted for debt servicing in the current year. Of course, we knew that a moment such as the nation is currently experiencing would come sooner or later. That was why we alerted the administration to the wisdom of spending within its means over the course of several editorials, as well as on the danger of a relapse to the past habits which landed the nation in debt peonage. Of course, we were roundly ignored. When we raised questions about the wisdom of borrowing when oil prices held steady and high, the administration’s hierarchs not only rationalised their appe-

tite on the grounds that the nation was under-borrowed; and to drive their point home, they advertised the low Debt-GDP ratio as if that is supposed to be a licence to ratchet dubious debts. Today, our fears have been confirmed. From an external debt stock of US$4.26 billion in June 2010, the Federal Government’s external debts stock had ballooned to US$6,445,631,547.93 as at December 31, 2014. The situation of domestic debts is even worse: from N3.76 trillion in June 2010, it has grown to a humongous N9.53 trillion by December 2014 – unfortunately, with very little to show for it in terms of projects. As it appears, the illusion of an invincible economy, one reasonably insulated from macro-economic shocks has since evaporated – no thanks to the dip in oil prices; worse, the fears have returned to haunt. As one would imagine, the administration appears to have learnt nothing from the experience. In the current budget cycle, for instance, it seeks $5.7bn (N2.97tn) from external sources – under the guise of using same to finance infrastructure projects. Of these, $100m (N16.8bn) is expected from the World Bank; another $800m (N135.4bn) is expected from both the African Development Bank and the Islamic Development Bank for the East-West Road Project, while $4.8bn (N806.4bn) is expected from China Exim Bank for the Mambilla Hydro Electric Power Project. These are aside the $12bn under negotiation from the Chinese for the coastal rail project. The point really is that the administra-

tion has neither demonstrated the fiscal rectitude nor the acuity to convince Nigerians that the loans – or any loans for that matter – can ever be well utilised. They would wish that they could point at specific projects for which the earlier loans over which they are now saddled with the burden of repayment were deployed. While borrowing has since become the second nature for the administration, the greater task, which it has proven unable to undertake – is clean up and eliminate wastes in government; and to capture all revenues due to the federation account, particularly the operating surpluses of the countless agencies and parastatals of the Federal Government. While the two steps may not entirely eliminate the appetite for debts, it would at least reduce both the craving for, as well as the burden of debt.

‘Of course, we knew that a moment such as the nation is currently experiencing would come sooner or later. That was why we alerted the administration to the wisdom of spending within its means over the course of several editorials, as well as on the danger of a relapse to the past habits which landed the nation in debt peonage. Of course, we were roundly ignored’

Pipeline vandalism •200 cases in six months intolerable!

UR fear regarding the nation’s oil sector’s grubby management is better exemplified by scandalous reports emanating from a senior government official, stating that the nation in the last six months recorded over 200 incidences of crude oil and gas pipeline vandalism. So, what other confirmation could better corroborate the reality that law and order have finally broken down in that money-spinning sector of the economy? Prof. Chinedu Nebo, Minister of Power, at a media parley in Abuja alarmingly declared: “Over 200 incidences were recorded in six months on the Trans Niger crude pipeline in the East, affecting Okoloma gas supply. These regular interruptions on the Trans Forcados crude oil pipeline affect gas supply in the West. Sabotage incidents have constrained gas supply to power plants and held genera-

‘Despite this unnecessarily huge security expenditure on incorrigible militants by the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), the humdrum vandalisation going on and the despicable oil theft have left us wondering why the contracts with these militants have not been terminated. Without equivocation, the whole essence of the contracts has been defeated’

tion at less than 4,500MW.” Sadly, the government has routinely regaled Nigerians with how such criminal practices have been impeding power supply since 81 per cent of power generated in the country originates from thermal generation plants that rely solely on gas. But the government hardly told Nigerians how many billions had gone into employing militants to guard the pipelines without meaningful results. Apart from pipeline vandalism, the nation has been befuddled with routine oil thefts to the tune of 400,000 barrels per day despite having several millions of dollar security contract with the leadership of Niger Delta militants. For example, some former militants and selfstyled ‘generals’. Ebikabowei “Boyloaf” Victor Ben and Ateke Tom, have for almost three years been reportedly receiving $3.8 million a year each to have their men guard oil pipelines they hitherto attacked in the Niger Delta creeks. The same applies to another militant leader, Government “Tompolo” Ekpumopolo who purportedly receives $22.9 million a year to perform the same job. Asari Dokubo, a popular militant leader, is reportedly enjoying his own bite of the juicy pipelines protection deal. Despite this unnecessarily huge security expenditure on incorrigible militants by the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), the humdrum vandalisation going on and the despicable oil theft have left us wondering why the contracts with these militants have not been terminated. Without

equivocation, the whole essence of the contracts has been defeated. We consider as imperative the need to ask some questions: Who are the vandals destroying these pipelines? Are they known to the militant leaders, and truly under their control? If yes, why has the problem of pipeline vandalism been so nauseatingly persistent over the years? What happened to the money so far given to Tompolo, Dokubo, Boyloaf and Ateke Tom, to ensure adequate protection of the pipelines? Does it still make sense to continue the contracts in view of the obvious failure of these militants to justify the contracts? Would the problem of pipeline vandalism ever be solved with the suspected complicity from powerful quarters? The revelation by Professor Nebo on the upsurge in pipeline vandalism is a serious indictment on a government that spends millions of hard-earned currency yearly on the protection of oil pipelines without getting the desired results. Assuming those vandals are saboteurs, then those militants paid to do the job of protecting the pipelines but are found wanting in discharging their duties are no less so. Even those paying such amount to them at a time that majority of Nigerians are facing hard times qualify for the same appellation. We are tired of a government that has made daily bemoaning of sordid state of affairs in the oil sector its pastime when it has all the powers to change the tide for good but has demonstrated gross incapability to do this.

In defence of Obasanjo

IR: In 1982 when economic ship of our dear nation was sinking, the sage of our time, Chief Obafemi Awolowo voiced out to the consternation of the mediocre leadership of our Second Republic. He was vilified, castigated and condemned. Events in the later part of the regime however vindicated him. The eye sees not itself except by reflection. In fact, the economy of Nigeria was at the brink of collapse before Buhari / Idiagbon struck on December 31, 1983 and the military junta saved the most populous black nation from the economic wreck. Today, we have similar situation; the conservative ruling class is the driver of our economy. The mediocre leadership of the Second Republic has resurrected in the ruling PDP. Good enough, we also have another man warning us of the dangers ahead. Like Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo has been warning the current political players and alerting the nation of the inept leadership. We have many reasons to believe Obasanjo; after all, he is the third eye. Experience more than anything outweighs age and the man is proud of both. Kleptomania is the order of the day. In the words of Shakespeare “If correction lies in the hand of he that committed wrong, to whom do we complain?” Obasanjo’s whistle is the hunter’s call to a straying dog. The snooty lieutenants in the Jonathan administration should be thankful to Obasanjo rather than taking cudgels against him. His warnings should serve as a wakeup call to embrace change. If they do not know, Nigeria is greater than all of us. Posterity awaits us all. But they should know that investment is consumption suspended. The message of General Mohammadu Buhari (GMB) is apt and concise “If we don’t kill corruption, corruption will kill all of us”. Before corruption will kill us though, we will all vote it out. • Adelani Olawuyi, Odooba - Ogbomoso. TRUTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief Victor Ifijeh • Editor Gbenga Omotoso •Chairman, Editorial Board Sam Omatseye •General Editor Adekunle Ade-Adeleye •Editor, Online Lekan Otufodunrin •Managing Editor Northern Operation Yusuf Alli •Managing Editor Waheed Odusile

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THE NATION MONDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2015

CARTOON & LETTERS

IR: History being a body of facts of past events is supposed to be guide to the present. History, it is often said, repeats itself. However, one significant repercussion of history repeating itself is the higher cost attendant to that repetition. The unfolding melodrama of election date shift is very instructive and when such incident is placed side by side with what happened before with similar similarities, one may be able to decipher what may likely be the result. Therefore, we need to do some excursions into the past. The rigging of the 1964-65 elections in the former Western Region in Nigeria became the precursor of the 1966 coup and its aftermath led to the avoidable Civil War in Nigeria. The costs in terms of finan-

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General elections: Need for caution cial and human resources, the massacre of innocent Nigerians as well as the attendant internal emotional disharmony and psychological trauma of that era must never be contemplated or repeated. Some of the people who ignited the unfortunate saga paid for their crimes but the majority of the people who suffered were innocent. The Gowon era in Nigeria was the most glorious. After the Civil war, General Yakubu Gowon in-

troduced the Reconciliation, Rehabilitation, and Reconstruction policy popularly known as 3RS. It was the era of mass reconstruction and development. General Gowon through Professor Adebayo Adedeji brought National Development Plans which were properly supervised. Gowon promised to handover to an elected government in 1976. Sometime in 1974 Gowon reneged on his promise and declared that 1976 was no

Life pensions to presidents and others condemnable

IR: The Socialist Party of Nigeria (SPN) condemns the recent passage into the constitutional amendment the granting of life pensions for Presidents, Vice President, Senate Presidents and House of Representatives Speakers by the National Assembly. It is another attack on an average Nigerian who has been made to wallow in poverty in spite of the stupendous wealth of the country. It is absolutely immoral and wicked of National Assembly whose members claim to be the representatives of the common people to elect to defraud the nation by committing public resources to the already rich few. Currently, Nigerian politicians, and especially National Assembly members, are the highest paid in the world. It is clear that the insatiable quest of politicians to loot the better part of the nation’s wealth is not quenched by the humongous amount politicians award for themselves at all levels, thus the new attempt to give politicians permanent wages, even after they have left offices. We call on Nigerian labour movement to reject this latest fraud, and mobilize its members, civil society and oppressed and poor Nigerians

out in mass movement against this fraud. This should be linked with building mass movement against all anti-poor capitalist policies. It is worrisome that the same National Assembly members that found it difficult to legislate mere N30, 000 minimum wage for workers, found it easy to award several millions to bourgeois politicians as salaries and life pensions. Today, the education sector is in ruin as a result of chronic underfunding, but the National Assembly sees no reason to commit public resources to public education. Why should they, when they can easily send their children to the best schools around the world using public resources? Is it then accidental that Nigeria is one of the most unequal countries in the world with just one percent of the population cornering up to 80 percent of the nation’s wealth? According to statistics, more than 40 percent of the working population is jobless while poverty rate is more than 70 percent. Yet, every year, less than 18, 000 politicians in power take as much as over N1.3 trillion as salaries, allowances and perks of office; an amount that is more than four times the total budgets for health.

It is condemnable that the same politicians who have severally and collectively ruined the nation’s economy and destroyed the country’s social fabrics, as a result of their corrupt and pro-capitalist rule, are now the one getting the choicest part of our economy. Today, most state governments and even federal government owe workers’ salaries, using the excuse of fall in oil revenue, itself a product of the gross mismanagement of Nigeria’s economy by successive governments. Yet, the same excuse is not applicable to salaries of politicians, and now life pensions for leading politicians. All of this shows that Nigeria’s capitalist political class, organized in the major political parties are united in their pro-rich, anti-poor neo-liberal policies that put public wealth in the pockets of the rich few. While they tell us to tighten our belts for economic prudency, they award themselves the juiciest of salaries and allowances, while committing public policies towards their private businesses. • Segun Sango Socialist Party of Nigeria Wuse II, Abuja

longer realistic. That marked a turning point and Tai Solarin wrote an article titled “The Beginning of the End” and so it was with Gowon which the end of Gowon came in 1975. Those who spearheaded that saga had their fingers burnt. Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida (IBB) ran the affairs of Nigeria for eight years from August 1985 giving himself a coup as a birthday gift. He made use of many Nigerian good brains and evolved a culture of political sagacity. He adopted the two party system and Option A4 for elections. Babangida’s end finally came with the annulment of the June 12, 1993 elections. Adjudged to be the freest, most credible and most peace-

ful, the MKO/Kingibe ticket beat all centrifugal forces – religious bigotry, tribal animosity, northsouth dichotomy and all embers of disunity. It showed that Nigerians could and can live in peace and can make choices of their own when allowed. A group of wicked people who never meant well for this nation scuttled that progress. From the historical facts above, one comes into unassailable conclusion that those who reneged on their promises have always had an unenviable end: Gowon, Babangida and this may extend to anyone else. Obasanjo was able to survive in 1979 when he handed over as scheduled. Nigerians even had to call him back in 1999 and he only missed the repercussion of backsliding when he quickly retraced his steps when some sycophants were urging him on for a third term. Our current crop of leaders will do well to learn from the above. • Olusegun Olatubosun, Lagos.

Ladoja and Trans International Bank

IR: I read an advertorial in the Tribune on Tuesday last week where Senator Rasheed Ladoja, former Governor of Oyo State was accused of destroying Trans International Bank (TIB) to satisfy his interests in First City Monument Bank FCMB. The Senator responded that it was all lies. However, we, the victims who were sacked from the bank know better. I can never forget the crisis in the bank then when we were sacked . They didn’t even pay us our entitlements. Unfortunately for me, I had just lost my husband due to illness and was left to cope with two children aged eight and four years. Things were so bad that I lost my four years’ old daughter to malaria because I couldn’t afford antimalarials. What I want to ask Senator Ladoja is: why did he move Oyo

State Internally Generated Revenue accounts and the Federal Allocation Accounts from Trans International Bank to other banks? Is this removal of funds not what started the collapse of TIB? Senator Ladoja should not come now and start telling us how good he was to workers. He didn’t care about the workers of TIB and the local business men who patronised the bank. Over 3000 people were affected by Senator Ladoja’s decision. These people are out there who suffered the pain of sack. The question is: what future lies ahead when all we have are politicians who won’t take responsibility for their past actions and still want to come back? • Moji Adeyemi Apata, Ibadan

THE NATION MONDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2015

COMMENTS

Let peace be still in truth I

F anything, ongoing extraordinary military combat with Boko Haram is most pleasing. Raiding Sambisa forest and liberating some communities from the insurgents is a hope that peace can still reign in the long-beleaguered North East part of the country. This is being accomplished in a season many millions of Nigerians, with or without their INEC PVC are on the stand to be used to decide the fate of the two main candidates who had put themselves up for election as leader of the nation where politics, instead of being on the welfare of the under-privileged, has been more on triviality. Were the assured abolishment of terrorism from Nigeria eventually become wholly attained within the prolonged six weeks of polls, no genuine citizen who truly loves the country will not glorify the Almighty God for His grace of fighting against the adversaries. It shall then become illustrious that whenever and whatever those in leadership become serious and determined to perform, can be achieved. After all, what seemingly meant nothing to the nation's leadership in the last six years is what is now being settled vastly in just six weeks by the same military forces. If electoral aspiration will ultimately make Nigeria to move forward, in deed and in truth, let it be so the way the people wants. But when frantic moves are in distraction and in criminality, whatever is claimed to be accomplished will become ineffectual and worthless. In other words, if truly Nigeria needs peace, it must be pursued in sincerity and openness. In refined countries, the likes of Fayose, Obanikoro, Omisore, Adesiyan and the army chieftain who merged as rigging team in Ekiti State last year's governorship election would have resigned or even fled. But here in Nigeria, they are still walking tall and acting as if what is being revealed through factual audio recording is rational and tolerable. To show that we might not take delivery of freedom and peace from these manners of people who can turn their fellow countrymen to slaves, an Obanikoro who many know as a political ruffian is even being recommended for restoration as minister. Not to talk of Fayose who is an undoubted brazen liar and a messy electoral criminal whose stomach infrastructure sense is already being endorsed and followed by the Jonathan campaign organization now sharing rice to people, house-to-house, in Lagos and bribing people across the country with public funds.

In mid-January, it was momentous in pretense when the presidential candidates and party leaders in a meeting spearheaded by former Commonwealth Secretary-General, Chief Emeka Anyaoku and former United Nations' boss, Kofi Annan, committed themselves in harmony to abide by the rule of secure, fair and non-violent election. With the presence of international personalities and diplomatic executives, the political actors openly agreed in inscription and tied themselves to act of valuable performance by signing pact for peaceful election as if that will encourage good people to vote for their fading party. Even last week, President Goodluck Jonathan who has been running helter-skelter to churches of all sorts, seized the opportunity of the beginning of Lent of non-Pentecostal churches to call on all political leaders in the country, Christians and non-Christians alike, to "rededicate themselves to the commitment they have made to peaceful, non-violent campaigns and elections, and do their utmost best to ensure that their supporters across the country uphold that commitment." According to his statement through his media aide, he said that in the spirit of that commitment, all those seeking political office in the coming elections are urged to "eschew hate speech, incitement to violence, divisiveness and the malicious denigration of opponents." What a fastidious expressions as if the presidency is ignorant of the reality in the land. Indeed, politics need not be of violence in a civilized society of sincere leadership. It should be to convince voters of viable agenda that will be fulfilled. PDP's television adverts are hardly of policy but more of abuse and denouncement of Gen. Muhammadu Buhari (rtd), not sensing that such cruelty and malice keep adding more support to him who they are supposed to be aligned with in peace. The same last week, at the governorship campaign rally of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Okrika Local Government Area of Rivers State, there was violent disruption when several explosions rocked the Okrika National School Field venue of the event. A policeman lost his life in the shooting while several attendants at the rally, including a television journalist sustained gunshot injuries. APC governorship candidate, Dr. Dakuku Peterside escaped being hit by grace. It was as if Okrika, the home base of Dame (in)Patience Jonathan is a place where no other party than the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) must campaign. It was also as if thugs and hooligans are appointed by those desperate that Jonathan must remain president as long as ballot boxes are not allowed to decide the will of the people. Isn't it disgusting that the President who is working against the terrorists killing innocent Nigerians in the North East will not see anything wrong while there is killing of

PEAKING of an albatross from the past and its perpetually negative potential, Gen Muhammadu Buhari, former military head of state, three-time unsuccessful presidential hopeful and presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), must be wondering what it would take for the people to accept him as an evolved leader, which is not to suggest that he has stopped evolving. It would appear that the evidence of his evolution might not be enough, which could be a complicating factor. In an interview he granted CNN, which was significant especially on account of the medium’s global stature and influence, the difficulty of convincingly communicating Buhari’s personal progression was discernible. CNN International Correspondent Christiane Amanpour asked Buhari: “The headlines around the world are that the Nigerian presidential election is a contest between a failed president and former dictator, and you are the former dictator. Some people say that you expelled 700,000 migrants years back, thinking that it would create jobs; that you banned political meetings and free speech; that you detained thousands of people; set up secret tribunals; executed people for crimes that were not capital offences. Have you changed or are these what the Nigerian people should look forward to if you win the election?” Buhari’s answer was disarmingly frank and philosophically potent. He said: “All those things you mentioned with a degree of accuracy were what actually happened, but they were under a military administration. When the military under my leadership came on board, we suspended those aspects of the constitution that we felt would make it difficult for us to operate under the circumstance we found ourselves.” Then he delivered what could prove to be a defining consideration in the presidential election: “But, I think I would be judged

‘Perhaps it is in the interest of the collective memory to suspend remembrance. This is a time for the people to earnestly reimagine the country’s leadership, not dwelling upon Buhari’s past in power but focusing on his present and unchanging opposition to corruption, which is a blight on the land’

Buhari: past or present harshly as an individual by what happened during that military administration, or to extend what happened under a military administration to a democratic system.” Interestingly, this argument highlighting the necessary antagonism between dictatorship and democracy is not new and has come to represent something of a stock response to critics of Buhari’s past in power. Without doubt, it is a rational and logical defence of dynamism. However, it remains to be seen whether sense would subvert sensation, or more specifically, whether common sense would shred common sensation. Indeed, it is paradoxical that Buhari’s image as a change agent or game-changing player ahead of the poll is rooted in a positively unchanged aspect of his personality. Also fascinating is the effect of this changelessly appealing dimension of his character. It is enlightening that Buhari’s rich reputation for integrity has remained fundamentally undamaged since his military leadership from December 1983 to August 1985. This is not only the crux of the matter but also the cross of the man. Those who fear the probable anti-corruption implications of a Buhari presidency may not be exactly paranoid, given his antecedents as a former military ruler whose short-term regime sought to cleanse the rot through unusually severe methods. However, perhaps the overriding argument in favour of Buhari, which should recommend him for power at this point in time, is his unassailable antiseptic personality. The truth is that those who have professionalised corruption deserve every possible fear; and a leader known to have zero tolerance for corruption like Buhari may well be the best positioned to reverse the rubbish. If former president Olusegun Obasanjo is to be believed,

Nigerians too in the South-South environ of his wife? What sense in not condemning a president wife's people unleashing terror on her own people just because they belong to another party? Similar chaotic attacks have returned in Ekiti state under Fayose and the authority sees nothing wrong in him. The majority APC House of Assembly members are still being hunted so that the illegal assembly PDP scanty members can remain imposed on the people. This is also the same man who used the military and security forces to arrest and block those who are not on his side, just to win election - at all costs! Is Mr. President in actuality devoted to genuine peace for the nation? Is Boko Haram to be demolished in six weeks for the sake of peace? Or could it be that voters will now begin to see President Jonathan who cared less for the abducted Chibok girls in more than 10 months now as the leader fighting continuing good battles for them? Should those speaking peace be empowering the South-South exmilitants with the nation's resources and ammunitions so that they can manifest their promised wars if Jonathan is not voted for? Is seeking peace sensible by using the military forces who should be in Sambisa forest as plots to work the same way it worked in Ekiti State election? Political violence has been knocking Nigeria and Nigerians down. When the undeniable freest and fairest June 12, 1993 election was annulled by the Ibrahim Babangida regime, there was a consignment of violence in the South-West. After years of military administrative afflictions and melancholies, those who stole authority decided to shift power and they thought it should be in the hand of the politically defrauded Basorun MKO Abiola's people; and this why they gave the presidency to Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, chosen by themselves and not his people. Again, when militant violence escalated in the Niger Delta, the reigning political power tolerably chose to pacify them by eventually giving it to Goodluck Jonathan after the passage of his northern predecessor. It was not that a clueless Jonathan, even though with a Ph.D, is the best that must be used for the betterment of the nation when power was to move to South-South. Why must there be war if people decide to vote right for a change for better governance? Must the massive corruption demolishing the nation still be sustained so that those stealing the wealth of the people would not be probed? Are we really ready to build a nation where peace and justice will reign? Are Nigerians, including the military, primed to stand for free and fairplay in this year's general elections? Must we allow political conflict to emerge out of intra and inter-party bad bloods? Nothing can be rewarded to the nation if there is a systemic breakdown with the collapse of righteous election through unworthy self-centered calamity.

and there are certainly reasons to believe him, the mountainous magnitude of official corruption in the country and the fearfulness of the culpable may be strong factors hardening the apparent desperation of President Goodluck Jonathan to cling to power despite his unmistakable unpopularity. It is illuminating that in reaction to the controversial rescheduling of the country’s general elections by six weeks, Obasanjo said: “I believe the President’s fear is not leaving office per se, because he and I have had occasions to talk about this both seriously and jovially. I believe the President would want an opportunity to disengage peacefully and have a nice, decent and glorious exit. I believe the President’s fear is, particularly, motivated by those who see Gen Buhari as his likely successor.” So, why is Buhari, perceived as a bugbear? Obasanjo again: “I believe those people have been telling him that Buhari is a hard man, he would fight corruption and you may end up in jail if not in the grave. I believe people must have told him all sorts of things and he is not the only one, there are other people who may be afraid of Buhari.” It is important to note that this alleged fear of Buhari transcends despotism or democracy, meaning that the apprehension is not actually about Buhari the unreformed military dictator or Buhari the democratic convert, but really about the essential Buhari. In other words, Buhari is a threat as a quintessential anti-corruption figure, whether he is in uniform or out of uniform. To reformulate the description of the country’s expected presidential election as “a contest between a failed president and former dictator,” it may be more profound to describe the poll as a battle between a champion of corruption and a crusader against corruption. When the choices are presented and seen from this angle, it might be easier for Buhari to surmount the blame from the past. Perhaps it is in the interest of the collective memory to suspend remembrance. This is a time for the people to earnestly reimagine the country’s leadership, not dwelling upon Buhari’s past in power but focusing on his present and unchanging opposition to corruption, which is a blight on the land. Amanpour asked Buhari: “On corruption, there are complaints by many people in your country over massive corruption. Can you face up against that? Are you committed to rooting out corruption? Buhari replied: “We have to because there are serious citizens who said that “unless Nigeria kills corruption, corruption will kill Nigeria.” The question must be asked: Who wants Nigeria to die of corruption?

THE NATION MONDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2015

COMMENTS

LL signs of a self-fulfilling prophesy are now here: fears of unimaginable proportion, mutual accusations and blames among groups and individuals against themselves and institutions of governance. We are also host to schism within the political class and increasing doubt on the capacity of the centre to hold any more. Critical institutions of government are under attack for real or trumped up charges. And general confidence in these institutions has come under very serious doubt such that forebodes danger for our collective wellbeing. Ironically, these foreboding signals fit into the prediction of a group of Americans who had before now, foretold that this country would beak up this year. Call it prophesy that is about to play out and one will not be completely wrong. Though the authorities had dismissed this doomsday prediction, events have moved in such a sequence to suggest that it can no longer be considered the handiwork of some lazy forecasters or an exercise in wishful thinking. Curiously, those who were quick to dismiss the forecast then, have found themselves irretrievably at the centre of events that may bring about this pass. Every body is talking tough; passion very high. There are hard line positions and every body seems to have lost control over statements that can hold this country together and the ones that will further compound our problems of common existence. It has become increasingly difficult to make a difference between statesmen and the ordinary man on the streets who is often propelled by emotions. Those who ought to be seen as such have been drawn into the fray and there seems to be nobody to call the other to order. Never in the history of electioneering campaigns in this country have Nigerians been so divided and torn apart by its likely outcome. Critical institutions of the government are not spared in this bashing: the military, the Independent National Electoral Commission INEC and the government of the day. The impartiality of the INEC, the military, the Police and even the Judiciary has been put into serious doubt. And all these are taking place in very quick succession at the eve of a general election. The idea of an interim government has been bandied while the prospect of a military coup has also been touted for the same uncertain circumstances. Out there, the Boko Haram insurgency is wreaking havoc with unimaginable toll in human and material resources. Caution appears to have been thrown to the dogs and all those supposed to be the conscience of the nation have taken sides. These

Emeka OMEIHE 08112662675 email: EmekaOmeihe@yahoo.com

Before we perish are definitely very trying times and if care is not taken, this country may be heading for the worse. At the centre of the impending danger is the issue of power shift or power sharing among the disparate groups. Before now, there have been threats and counter threats as to the consequences that await the nation should any of the contending interests fail to have one of theirs clinch the nation’s highest political office. And in a zero sum game of this nature, only one person will ultimately win. Elections have been postponed for six weeks for two basic reasons. The first is the inability of the electoral body to get the Permanent Voters’ Cards PVC’s to a majority of voters across the country. There was also the security dimension. In this wise, references were made to the prospects of outbreak of violence due to the likely disenfranchisement of a large chunk of registered voters. There was also the issue of concluding some military operations in the northeast which the military high command said they were about to embark upon. Such an engagement in their calculations, would largely constrain them from the usual logistic support they offer the INEC during elections. But that has not been all. Accusations have been bandied and motives imputed for the shift. And given that the elections were barely a week away when they were postponed, the frustrations of those simulating hidden motives for the shift can be understood. But as the nation was about to come to terms with this reality, a spanner was hurled unto the wheels when former President Olusegun Obasanjo re-opened the matter levelling sundry allegations against President Jonathan and the military. He alleged that Jonathan was not only planning to win the election by “hook and crook” but to use the service chiefs to prolong his regime.

FORMER British Prime Minister, Harold Wilson is often quoted as saying, ‘a week is a long time in politics”. The battle hardened intriguer from his long experience in politics certainly knew what he was talking about. The shifting quicksand of politics can throw everything upside down in the twinkle of an eye, not to mention six weeks! Wilson’s aphorism looms large within the context of today’s chess game involving the elections in Nigeria. The postponement of the election has thrown all the hitherto careful permutations upside down. The contrived ‘postponement’ was conjured to do just that in the first place. This is because apart from the party in government at the centre, everyone else is cash-strapped. How to fight an unanticipated war of attrition over the next six weeks will certainly tax the ingenuity of those in charge of the exchequer of the main opposition party. It’s going to be hard! Unfortunately, for a battered economy, it’s going to be, even much harder. For a start in what is now a state-of-siege, no sane investor is going to make any far reaching decision. It would be crazy to do so. And you don’t need a political risk analyst to tell you why, any more than you need a weatherman to tell you which way the wind is blowing. The ‘unintended’ circumstances arising out of the postponement are beginning now to reveal itself, much like the proverbial chicken coming home to roost. For example the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) during the week intervened in defence of the Naira by selling foreign exchange (FX) outside of its official band for the second time, a sign that the apex bank could weaken the currency to save its fast shrinking foreign reserves. Already the Naira has crashed through the psychologically important level of 200 to the dollar. The worst of course is yet to come. How to prevent a freefall of the currency during the contrived six weeks haitus is going to task the ingenuity of the hard-pressed CBN and its Monetary Policy Committee. It’s also going to be very punishing for the man in the street who has been immortally referred to by the television commentator Frank Olize as ’ the common man’. This makes us to go back to yet another one of Harold Wilson’s aphorism. Pressed as to the worth of the British pound sterling after the devaluation of 1966, the wily-old fox retorted that well, ‘the pound in your pocket is still worth a pound’. This was arrant nonsense of course and Prime Minister Wilson who had been an Oxford Don at a very early age knew so. After the devaluation, the pound had shrank and living standards predictably went down. This brings us to ask what exactly is the worth of the naira in your pocket now. Well, it hasn’t been worth that much since, the ill-advised

He cast serious slur on the role of the military arguing that they were manipulated by the Jonathan regime to postpone the election and questioned the claim that the period would be used to quell the Boko Haram insurgency that has defied the military these past years. The defence headquarters felt so piqued by these allegations that they had to join issues with Obasanjo contending that much of his recent utterances are either motivated by the desire to play to the gallery or for self-serving ends. What is important here is not as much with the utterances of Obasanjo; the schism within the political class or the mutual recrimination that has become the order of the day. The thing that should concern all is the logical outcome of this whirlwind we are about to unleash unto this country. Do we have the capacity to control its devastation when once it has been activated? And are we really prepared for whatever may turn out to be its logical outcome? In effect, it is not enough to bandy damaging allegations; it is not enough to threaten fire, lime and brimstone should this or that happen. It is also not enough to simulate the worst case scenario or prop up dangerous propositions if certain events go in certain directions. The thing to examine is the larger prospects of unguarded utterances, allegations and all that; the net effects of discrediting critical institutions of governance and what they portend for the peace and stability of this country. We need to consider what would be the effect of the attempt to have the citizenry lose confidence in the military, the INEC, the police and the judiciary especially in an election year. There is the overriding need to give thought to a situation where the electoral

body’s credibility to organize free and fair elections has been seriously questioned if not damaged. How acceptable will the elections which it is about to organize be? And what are the likely consequences of a highly disputed and rancorous election? There is the imperative to examine the larger consequences of casting the military institution as a compromised body that now does the bidding of the government in power. Suggestions about military take over or the idea of an interim government that has surprisingly surfaced also need to be seriously studied. We may also need to pause and consider whether we are not unleashing a chain of events whose outcome may eventually overwhelm this country. These are the issues to ponder in the current circumstance the nation has irretrievably been entangled. It is important to examine whether the social dynamics of history has not been so activated that it must run its full course. Are those activating these processes prepared for the larger repercussions of the dialectics that is currently at play? Are they aware that the forces of historical materialism can drive them into oblivion? And have they considered the likely direction of spontaneous change or revolt arising from disenchantment with the establishment. There are accusations and counter accusations of corruption among the contending political parties. The fight against the scourge has become an election issue. This would seem alluring given the pervasiveness of the phenomenon. How we wish corruption can be fought in all its ramifications and all those who stole our money made to account for their ill-gotten wealth at the expense of the toiling masses. That would mark a new beginning for this country. But this presupposes the coming elections are largely free and fair and their outcome generally acceptable. That is where the real problem hinges. The way things stand there is every reason to believe there will be protests and possible violence irrespective of who wins the presidential election. The outcome of the election has already been badly encumbered such that which ever way it goes, we are definitely heading for the worst case scenario. That is the real danger in the unguarded accusations and counter accusations against critical institutions of governance. It would appear to me that this country needs some form of intervention to redirect us from the perilous path we are heading to. What that intervention is and the form it will take is best known to the Almighty God. But the danger ahead is very certain and some form of intervention is inevitable to reverse the slide to the precipice.

Naira and six weeks waiting game By Ayo Badmus devaluation of 1986 which heralded the structural adjustment programme. It’s been a downward spiral ever since for an import dependent economy. Living standards have plunged to such an extent that the N18,000 a month “minimum wage” means just that, “minimum” this is as in the bare-bottom minimum needed not to exist but to subsist. Take out rent, school fees, food, transportation and all manner of added on and it’s more like economic genocide on the part of those who brought us to this sorry state placed within the context of a major oilproducing country. Those who have led us to this stage in reality ought to face an international economic war crimes tribunal. It’s that serious. As the incomparable reggae star, Bob Marley intoned, “in the midst of water, the fool goes thirsty”. In this light, paradoxically, the propaganda machine of the federal government expect us to believe that after the disputable ‘rebasing’ of the economy, we are really better-off, than presumably we where, let us say four years ago. This of course is the height of intellectual dishonesty. Perhaps, this is why the federal government’s operators were so furious at the endorsement of General Buhari by the highly rated Economist magazine of London. They were, as it were hoist on their own petard. Having spent so much time and effort cultivating the international credit agencies and organs such as the Economist, they have suddenly found out that you can’t fool all of the people, all of the time. In the meantime it is getting worse for the government as other highly rated organs such as the equally authoritative New York Times have also become highly critical and disapproving. The government’s economic platform propaganda has now been found out to be a classic text-book case of ‘growth without development’. Rebase as many times as you like, for the person on the street, economically he or she is worse off today than they were four years ago. This is why the election propaganda on the governments’ side is based on religion and ethnicity. This is all very convenient. For it is intended to detract from the real issue, which is ‘are you better off today, than you where four years ago?’ Outside of the corridors of power of course, no one is better off. For example with a depreciating currency driving up the price of building materials, the prospect of owning one’s own

home for the mass of the people is looking ever more like a mirage. The side effect of course is that the landlord is going to increase his/her rent. The multiplier effect of the ruinous economic policies based on management ineptitude, corruption and sloth is already being painfully felt by the man in the street. Denied of a living wage, assuming of course that there is any wage in the first place, people have become resistant to the Buhari is an Islamist battle-cry of the government’s spindoctors. The hard-pressed and the dispossessed who are thinking of the next meal, rent and school-fees are not likely to be persuaded by cheap sloganeering and propaganda. In the next six weeks it’s going to get nastier. Originally it was felt that a six weeks postponement would buy time to spew out more propaganda. This strategy with the amount of money available to the ruling party looked good on paper. However, the other side of the coin is that a depreciating currency has made people to look at their wallet, the ‘naira in their pocket’. Unfortunately, for those who contrived the postponement, the naira in their pocket in terms of what it can buy is going to be worth even less by March 28. The only trick left is to cut petrol prices again. But can they? And to what immediate effect? It is worth noting that the price cut has resulted in a price war amongst retailers in neighbouring Ghana which has benefited the common man. Predictably in cronyism-fired Nigeria directed by ‘paddy-paddy’ government, this has not happened. Postponing the election for six weeks in order to gain lost ground has back-fired on those who contrived it. For the ‘opposition’ or should we say the government in-waiting, it’s actually an opportunity to continue to pound upon a central theme whis is: are you better off today than you where four years ago? No prizes for guessing how the mass of the people across religion, tribe and social status are going to reply. They will certainly say ‘we won’t get fooled again’.

‘Postponing the election for six weeks in order to gain lost ground has back-fired on those who contrived it...it’s actually an opportunity to continue to pound upon a central theme which is: are you better off today than you where four years ago?’

THE NATION MONDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2015

BUSINESS THE NATION

E-mail:- bussiness@thenationonlineng.net

JOBS

CEO

‘We are repositioning Commodity Exchange’ - P. 33

Wanted: Home tutors - P. 31 News Briefing More firms to send reports electronically MORE companies are opting to send their annual reports and accounts in electronic copies to shareholders as companies seek to cut costs of shareholders’ relations. –Page 22

‘Devaluation‘ll affect cost of products’ THE devaluation of the naira, following the slide in oil prices, will push up prices of pharmaceutical products, President, Enugu Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (ECCIMA), Dr. Ifeanyi Okoye, has said. –Page 22

New IGI boss seeks review of regulations THE Group Managing Director, Industrial and General Insurance Plc (IGI), Rotimi Fashola, has called for a review of some of the regulations by the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM), saying such a measure would lead to a greater contribution of insurance products to the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). –Page 24

SEC sets 5% maximum equity for demutualised Exchange • Releases rules on NSE T HE Securities and Exchange Commission’s (SEC) draft rules on the demutualisation of the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), released at the weekend, bar individuals or entities from holding directly or indirectly more than five per cent of the issued shares or voting rights in a demutualised exchange. Demutualisation is the process of changing a member-owned stock exchange, otherwise known as mutual exchange, to a corporate entity owned by shareholders. In a mutual exchange, the three functions of ownership, management and trading are concentrated into a single group, hence the broker-

By Taofik Salako

members of the exchange are both the owners and the traders, as well as manages of the exchange. In a demutualised exchange, the three functions of ownership, management and trading are clearly separated. The draft rules by SEC simply defined demutualisation as “the separation of the ownership of the Securities Exchange from the right to trade on such Securities Exchange”. The Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) has been locked in intense grip of

demutualisation with divergent views on the necessity, procedures and timing and other details of the exercise. The release of the draft ends a four-year exercise in the run-up to providing amenable template for the demutualisation. Established as Lagos Stock Exchange (LSE) in 1960, the stock exchange was conceptualised as a limited by guarantee not-for-profit organisation thriving on the goodwill, reputation and integrity of its members. While Nigeria’s doyen of accounting, Mr. Akintola William, is the only surviv-

ing initial signatory to the founding memorandum of the NSE, the membership list of the NSE has always included “the movers and shakers” of the economy. Besides stockbroking firms and other capital market operators, members of the NSE included Alhaji Aliko Dangote, Chief Ernest Shonekan, Deacon Gamaliel Onosode, Oba Otudeko, Otunba Adekunle Ojora, Pascal Dozie, Chief Phillip Asiodu, Rear Admiral Allison Madueke (rtd.) and Senator Udo Udoma, among others. Altogether, the NSE has some 360 individual and institutional members including some 255 active dealing

$54/barrel $2,686.35/metric ton

Coffee

¢132.70/pound

Cotton

¢95.17pound

Gold

$1,396.9/troy

Sugar

$163/lb RATES

Inflation

Treasury Bills 10.58%(91d) Maximum lending 30% Prime lending

15.87%

Savings rate

91-day NTB

15%

Time Deposit

5.49%

MPR

13%

Foreign Reserve

$34.5b

FOREX (RDAS) US Dollar

168

Pounds

253.26

Euro

190.6968

Swiss Franc

181.1907

Yen

1.4316

CFA

0.2889

WAUA

235.9975

• Continued on page 26

By Akinola Ajibade

COMMODITY PRICES Cocoa

members. Several State Investment companies are also institutional members of the NSE, giving the states input into the operations of the NSE. These included Adamawa Securities Limited, Kaduna Investment Company, Kano State Investment and Properties Limited, Katsina State Investment and Property De-

IPMAN assures on proposed refineries

DATA STREAM Oil

• CEO, NSE, Oscar Onyema

• From left: Group Managing Director/CEO, Mainstreet Bank Limited, Mrs. Amaka Onwughalu; Chief Executive Officer, Marine Platforms Limited, Mr. Taofik Adegbite; Captain of African Inspiration vessel, Mr. Noel Samson; Group Managing Director/CEO, Skye Bank Plc, Mr. Timothy Oguntayo and Director, Mr. Victor Odozi, at the unveiling of the vessel financed by Skye Bank in Lagos ... on Friday.

Hard times await power firms with TEM implementation T HE privatised electricity generation (GENCOs) and distribution companies (DISCOs) are inundated with challenges from the Transitional Stage Electricity Market (TEM). The TEM, which started this month, has put the power firms in financial difficulty as they struggle to meet their contractual obligations. A source told The Nation that the DISCOs are the most affected in the electricity supply chain in terms of executing their responsibilities and meeting their contractual obligations. It said with the TEM, there is strict enforcement of obligation and the implication is that any DISCO that buys power, must make 100 per

By Emeka Ugwuanyi

cent remittance, as failure to do so would attract sanction from the regulator, the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC). This also applies to the GENCOs, as they are compelled to meet their contractual obligation when buying gas, as failure to pay for the commodity would equally attract penalties. Gas suppliers are not left out of the new regulations, as failure to deliver without making an alternative provision, would provide a ground for punishment. The source however explained that the impact of TEM

would be determined at the end of the month since the technical and commercial losses in existence are made worse by vandalism in the sector. He noted that the GENCOs are the most affected because they depend on the DISCOs. The DISCOs interact with consumers and are the last in the chain; therefore, their remittances go down from transmission to generation and to the gas suppliers, he said. The TEM took off on February 1, this year to give teeth to the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI), making wholesale buying and selling of power to be based on contractual and regulatory rules with little or no govern-

ment intervention. NERC Chairman, Dr. Sam Amadi said: “With this TEM, a greater degree of business and investment certainty has been introduced into the country’s electricity market, with the welcome result of setting an even firmer basis for increasing the amount of electricity available to Nigerians. “Conditions precedent set out in the market rules and subsequently agreed to be necessary for effective TEM have been satisfactorily fulfilled,’’ he said, adding that this would ensure better discipline, corporate governance, guarantee recovery on investment, as well as give certainty for a sustainable and growing electricity market that would serve the need of Nigerians.

HE proposed $3billion refineries to be sited in Itobe, Kogi State and Abbé in Bayelsa State will not suffer hitches, despite the fall in the international price of crude oil, the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN), has said. Its President, Chinedu Okoronkwo, said efforts are on-going to see to the establishment of the refineries as problems relating to funding have been settled by the international investors who have promised to finance the projects. He said the paper work on the project is being worked out by the association with other parties. “There is no problem about funding. Our technical partners from abroad have pledged their support for the project, and we hope to complete the project within the stipulated period of three years. Everything is in place,” he assured, adding that apart from the refineries, building a seaport is another issue which the body is giving the desired attention. Last year, IPMAN said it has acquired 1,000 hectares of land in Kogi and Bayelsa states for the refineries and other projects initiated to improve the growth of the downstream sector, adding that the cost of taking crude oil outside the country and bringing it back as refined products would be reduced when the refineries come on stream. IPMAN explained that the refineries would start with the initial production of 200 million barrels of crude oil per day and subseqquently increase it with time.

THE NATION MONDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2015

BUSINESS NEWS TUC to NLC: ensure hitch- free election

HE Trade Union Con gress (TUC) and other affiliates have urged the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) to ensure a hitch-free election rescheduled for March 12 . TUC President, Bobboi Kaigama said: “We are happy that they have been able to resolve their differences and on March 12, they will be able to conduct the election; it is a very good development. We strongly believe that whatever difficulties they faced, would serve as an eye-opener to correct and see that it does not repeat itself.” He assured that TUC is in solidarity with the NLC and would continue to support it to overcome its difficulties. Also, President, Nigeria Union of Postal Telecommunication Employees, Sunday Alhassan, challenged the NLC to act as a role model for workers. “We have looked at the entire politics and we know that things are not right; so

By Toba Agboola

we have to show very good example. Whatever the shortcoming that made us not to conclude the 11th National Delegates’ Conference with the new date that we have set for ourselves, we should all play by the rules. In playing by the rules and regulations of the Labour constitution, we will be able to elect good leadership that would protect the masses and the workers,” he said. Similarly, the President, Radio Television, Theatre and Arts workers’ Union of Nigeria,Yemi Bamgbose, advised the Credentials Committee to ensure that it overcomes whatever pitfalls that might occur during the forthcoming election. “The Credentials Committee must work in conformity with the rules and norms of holding an election of this magnitude,” he added.

More firms to send reports electronically

ORE companies are opting to send their annual reports and accounts in electronic copies to shareholders as companies seek to cut costs of shareholders’ relations. Many companies had used their previous annual general meetings to sensitise shareholders and seek necessary consents, prior to takeoff of the e-reporting initiative. Shareholders of companies under the UAC of Nigeria (UACN) Group including UAC of Nigeria, CAP Plc, and UACN Property Development Company (UPDC) had at the yearly general meetings of the companies considered amendments to the articles of association of the companies to enable the companies send annual re-

By Muyiwa Lucas

ports and accounts and other notices through compact disc, electronic mail or web publication in addition to existing option of hard printed copy. Cadbury Nigeria had earlier notified that it would now distribute its audited reports and accounts and other related documents in soft electronic format rather than in paper form. The company said the decision to use compact disc to distribute information to shareholders was part of its desire to ensure the sustainability of environment and align with international best practice. According to the company, to ensure fairness and equity, shareholders will be

given the option of requesting for a paper copy of these documents by exception, if they determine that they do not want to receive same in a CD format. Nestle Nigeria has also said it was introducing electronic delivery of annual reports and other corporate documents to ensure quick and effective access to information. At its last general meeting, Nestle Nigeria provided shareholders with an electronic mandate form, which would legally allow the company to send soft edition of its reports online through email address or compact disc. Nestle Nigeria’s shareholders would also be able to download all the reports from web address to be provided by the company.

Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has requested the National Assembly to amend the Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA) 1990 to allow electronic shares issuance, dematerialisation, electronic bonus and dividends among other initiatives. SEC has sought for amendments to section 117 of CAMA which gives companies the general powers to issue shares and section 125, which makes provisions relating to allotment of shares and issuance of share certificates to allow electronic issuance and allotment. According to SEC, these amendments would allow companies to electronically issue shares through CSCS accounts, which would enhance the dematerialisation of paper share certificates.

‘Why PR practice is dying’

IGERIA’s Public Re lations businesses are being ignored in global ranking as a result of lack of industry data and documentation, the President, Public Relations Consultants Association of Nigeria (PRCAN), Mr. John Ehiguese, has said. “We tend to be ignored in global rankings because the world does not have data on PR practice in Nigeria. And you cannot generate data if you do not conduct research. Also, we do not have a culture of documenting our campaigns in the form of case studies which we can present to global forums for assessment and reviews,” he said. Ehiguese said further that the industry continued to suffer setbacks because practitioners are not exposed to international conferences and seminars on PR practice. “Our level of international exposure is still abysmally low. How many of our practitioners attend international PR conferences, for instance?” he queried.

By Adedeji Ademigbuji

Ehiguese, who is also the Managing Director of Mediacraft, said since he assumed office as the president of PRCAN, part of his agenda is to upgrade standard to ensure that industry attract respects locally and internationally. However, he said, despite the abysmal performance of PR business in the marketing communication industry, the associations have done much to improve standard and enhance professionalism. He added that so far, the demand for PR is growing in Nigeria. “There is no doubt about that. This year alone, we have attended more pitches than any other year since we opened shop. And it is instructive that some of these pitches were called by organisations that have been around for quite a while, but never before worked with a PR firm,” he said.

Airlines urged to encourage agro-exporters

IRLINES have been urged to provide promotional incentives to agricultural exporters through reduction in freight charges to boost increased involvement in fresh produce farming. The Director, Africa, Cassava Adding Value to Africa (CAVA), Prof Kola Adebayo said exporters would welcome such incentives, especially on handling of perishables, such as fresh fruits and vegetables. He emphasised the importance of airlift to the agriculture. He said airlines should look for more cargo movement in and out of the country, and offer affordable and consistent services for local exporters because with the agricultural revolution, Nigeria was being positioned to use its agricultural exports to earn more for the country and its people.

By Daniel Essiet

He, however, noted that to actualise this, the nation needs the required infrastructure for export of agricultural, container and frigid products because lack of access to proper routes, lack of infrastructural facilities with regard to handling agro commodities in recent years have remained the major impediments towards agricultural development. Adebayo called on the government to draw up special plans to increase agro exports, urging the government to provide materials required by farmers to provide a much-needed fillip for exporting food and agro goods, calling on stakeholders in the industry to keep abreast of new technology and move towards modernising the agriculture sector to boost exports.

• From left: Chief of Staff to the Ekiti State Governor Chief Dipo Anisulowo (left) receiving the keys of a brand new Toyota Hilux donated to the state for security by Enterprise Bank Limited from the bank’s Directorate Head, Services, Mr. Tobe Nnadozie at the Government House, Ado-Ekiti. With them are the bank’s Directorate Head, Southwest & Retail, Mrs. Ori Ogba; Branch Manager, Fajuyi Branch, Ado Ekiti, Mr. Idowu Ogunlade and Regional Head, Southwest, Mrs. Stella Bolarinwa.

SEC sets 5% maximum equity for demutualised Exchange • Continued from page 25

velopment Company Limited, Kwara State Investment Corporation, New Nigerian Development Company Limited, Niger State Development Company Limited, Sokoto Investment Company Limited and Yobe Investment Company Limited, among others. According to the draft of the demutualisation rules, obtained by The Nation, no single entity or person or related entities and persons should be permitted to own, directly or indirectly more than five per cent of the eq-

uity and or voting rights in the demutualised securities exchange. Besides, the rules stipulate that the aggregate equity interests of members of any specific stakeholder group such as stockbrokers and broker-dealer in the demutualised securities exchange should not exceed 40 per cent. The rules, made pursuant to section 313 of the Investments and Securities Act (ISA) 2007, the securities exchange should initiate a process for determining the accurate list of members of the Exchange prior to the commencement

of demutualisation. The process of demutualisation of the Securities Exchange should include an exchange of membership rights in the Securities Exchange for ownership of shares in the demutualised Securities Exchange. According to the rules, strategic investors should be given equity interest in the demutualised securities exchange subject to establishment of the facts that the strategic investor has technical expertise through previous experience in managing other Exchanges and the aggregate number of

shares to be offered to the strategic investors shall not be more than 30 per cent of issued and fully paid up capital of the securities exchange. However, if the Exchange is in dire need of funds, it could issue a higher number of shares subject to approval of the Commission. The rules stipulate that the trading participants who are shareholders of the securities exchange shall with effect from the date of demutualisation reduce their cumulative shareholdings in the demutualised securities exchange to not more than 10 per cent within five years.

‘Naira devaluation ‘ll affect cost of pharmaceutical products’

HE devaluation of the naira, following the slide in oil prices, will push up prices of pharmaceutical products, President, Enugu Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (ECCIMA), Dr. Ifeanyi Okoye, has said. According to him, more than 98 per cent of raw materials used in the pharmaceutical industry are imported. “It’s a problem and we know where it came from. The nucleus of the problem actually is the fact that we have been operating as a mono economy, depending solely on oil. Because of that, as the price of oil started coming

By Chikodi Okereocha

down, our naira started fumbling,” he said. Okoye, who is also Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Juhel Nigeria Limited, a pharmaceutical manufacturing firm, said this affects the prices of goods people consume within the country. “The impact on the economy has to be there. So, the prices of drugs will definitely go up a bit,” he said. The ECCIMA chief said the continuous slide in the exchange rate of the naira against other major currencies, especially the dollar has pushed up prices of imported raw mate-

rials for drug manufacturing. Okoye, however, expressed optimism that the economic situation would stabilise, a conviction he based on the government’s emphasis on economic diversification, he said would take care of this problem. “Nigeria, of course, has been trying to ensure that agriculture is not just about feeding ourselves but about exporting our agricultural products. And then the strategy of trying to make manufacturers stronger by making funds available at affordable cost is good. By the time these efforts at economic decentralisation go full circle the economy will become

stronger,” he said. While emphasising that Nigeria must remove its sole interest in oil so that people can go into agriculture and manufacturing,the ECCIMA chief pointed out that when people go into agriculture, for instance, a lot of raw materials from agricultural products would be available. Similarly, going into manufacturing, he said, would drastically reduce importation “because most of the manufacturers in Nigeria will start using raw materials that are locally available, and this will definitely reduce the importation syndrome in Nigeria”.

THE NATION MONDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2015

BUSINESS AFRICA

S/Africa’s second stock exchange plans for Oct. debut

RADING on South Africa's second equity bourse may begin by the fourth quarter if Bravura Equity Services (Pty) Ltd. gets approvals to operate the Johannesburg Stock Exchange rival. "We hope that we will be able to become operational two months after the license has been approved," Stephan van der Walt, spokesman for Bravura, said by phone from Johannesburg last week. Trading may start by October, he said. Rules in July that changed how over-the-counter trading can be done in South Africa opened the door to a group of companies led by Bravura to set up a second exchange. The four Africa Exchange, or 4AX, will give a platform for companies trading OTC shares and issues that are part of the country's black eco-

nomic empowerment programme. "There are at least 20 companies being affected, which are currently trading OTC that we know of," van der Walt said. "There are at least eight companies that have indicated strong interest to look further at this." The 20 companies have a combined market capitalisation of 20 billion rand ($1.7 billion), he said. Details will be released when Bravura's application is submitted to the market regulator, Financial Services Board, van der Walt said. Supermarket chains vie to unlock Kenya retail market When Kaleli Muli needed to buy rings for his wedding, he popped into his local superstore in a suburb of Kenya's capital to

avoid the hassle of a trip downtown to find a jeweller. He left 20 minutes later clutching a plastic bag with two gold bands worth 45,000 shillings ($492), happy with his purchase, but also the time saved. Before the advent of hypermarkets, the rings might also have cost hours of shopping. "It is more convenient and there is a wider variety of products that I can choose from," said the agri-business consultant, who also does his weekly grocery shopping and bought his flat screen TV at Nakumatt, Kenya's largest retail chain. Nakumatt and other local retailers have long served Kenya's market, but now international store chains and private equity investors are also coveting the strong growth prospects in east Africa's leading

EU renews sanctions on Zimbabwe, Mugabe

HE European Union (EU) has renewed for another year its sanctions against Zimbabwe. This included a travel ban and asset freeze on President Robert Mugabe and his wife, according to a notice in the EU's Official Journal. "The restrictive measures should be renewed until February 20, 2016," the notice read. "The application of the travel ban and asset freeze should be maintained for two persons." Since imposing sanctions in 2002 over electoral fraud and human rights abuses, the EU has eased measures to encourage political

reform in Zimbabwe, although it has kept its ban on Mugabe and his wife Grace, as well as an arms embargo. It gave Zimbabwe 234 million euros (173.62 million pounds) in aid, its first since sanctions were imposed. And earlier this month, EU officials said the 90-year-old president might be allowed in on an exceptional basis during his year-long chairmanship of the African Union, if traveling on AU business. The Official Journal, however, made it clear that the EU

governments are not yet convinced that Mugabe had changed enough to merit a final lifting of restrictions. Representatives of the 28-member state had "carried out a review" of sanctions "taking into account political developments in Zimbabwe", the notice read. Mugabe has ruled Zimbabwe since it gained independence from Britain in 1980 and has frequently clashed with the West. EU states were divided in their response when Mugabe won a fifth term in a 2013 election that was endorsed as free by African observers, but denounced as fraudulent by the opposition.

economy. Kenya, with a GDP of $53.4 billion, is a gateway to regional trade, but it holds other attractions for retail investors. Analysts say the penetration of formal retail is 25-30 percent, double that of Africa's biggest economy Nigeria. In addition, the average value of a shopper's basket has risen 67 percent in five years to $20, making Kenya the continent's fastest-growing retail market, say industry executives.

Nairobi's shopping malls hit the headlines in September 2013 when Islamic militants attacked the upmarket Westgate shopping centre and killed at least 67 people. It remains closed and security at other malls has been tightened, though shoppers are undeterred. New market entrants face numerous challenges in addition to local competition. They must race to complete buildings on time, overcome legal hurdles and establish reliable supply chains.

CIPSMN chief to encourage indigenous textbooks

HE President Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply Management of Nigeria (CIPSMN) Alhaji Abdulhamid Diekola Oyewo has promised to assist members of the institute to write books. He made the promise at his maiden briefing at the Lagos office of the institute. He was elected at the bi-Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the institute in Abuja last year. He said the institute is blessed with members who could write good books that would move the profession forward. To actualise his promise, Oyewo said he had set up the Education and Certification Committee. Besides publication, the committee would also review the institute’s syllabus. Another committee, he set up is the Think Tank Committee, which would offer advice on professional and national issues when the need arose. He added: “We have also resolved to liaise with the relevant ministries/agencies of government on how the institute can benefit immensely from the initiated policies of government as they may affect the operations of the institute and the interest of our members.’’ Oyewo decried the neglect of professionals’ advice by some government officials when decisions on some vital issues were being taken. Noting that government has the power to take decisions, he said this should not be done without taking into consideration or carrying along professionals. He said from experi-

By Joseph Eshanokpe

ence, this appeared not to be so. He said the position of the institute is that while the government should be concerned with policies’ formulation, the execution of such policies should fall within the realm of professionals, who are trained to do so. “Professionalism of key areas is missing in government. They (professionals)should be allowed to do their jobs,’’ he advised. Oyewo praised his predecessor Alhaji M. J. Aliyu for his excellent performance. He said when Aliyu was sworn in as president, he had little or no resources to prosecute the tasks and targets he had set for himself. Despite these challenges, Aliyu was able to record some laudable achievements, he said, adding that Aliyu changed the status of the institute from Nigeria Institute of Purchasing and Supply Management to CIPSMN. “This landmark achievement of the immediate past president is the spur that pushed me to decide to work at the leadership level of the institute,’’ he said. He pledged to continue with some of Aliyu’s programmes and projects, should there be need to do so. Aliyu, who is now the Registrar of the institute, agreed that professional ism is lacking in government. “It is one thing to make policies, it is another to implement,’’ he said. He noted that the Council that is responsible for regulating the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) is not in place, saying that it was wrong for the government not to have inaugurated the council.

StarTimes introduces Nova •From left: Content Manager, StarTimes, Mr Ayokunle Idowu; Public Relations Manager, StarTimes, Israel Bolaji; Marketing Director, NTA 2, Mrs Betsy; Marketing Manager, StarTimes, Somoye Habeeb and representative of Lagos State Director, Nigerian Broadcasting Commission (NBC), Salisu Habu at the launch in Lagos

How to overcome site acquisition challenge, by on every level. Ericsson chief built He explained that the Ericsson Ra-

RICSSON said telcos could overcome the challenges of site acquisition, high cost of energy on running base transmission stations (BTS) and offer superior services through its new Radio System. Its Country Manager, Nigeria, Kamar Abass, who spoke in Lagos during the unveiling of the technology, said the Ericsson Radio System (ERS) modular architecture has changed how mobile networks are built with flexibly expanding to shifting demands on the road to 5G He explained that in big cities, such as New York, the air space above buildings is valuable real estate, stressing that where there is no room

By Lucas Ajanaku

to build out, urban planners build upward. According to him, Ericsson is opening up the same opportunity to operators struggling with site acquisition challenges in densely populated areas, allowing them to utilize wall space in existing sites and safely add five-times the capacity to towers. He said the new modular Radio System, scheduled for global unveiling at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, Spain, will redefine how mobile networks are

dio System’s modular architecture flexibly expands to changing demands on the road to 5G with multi-standard, multi-band and multi-layer technology, eliminating site acquisition issues, delivering three times the capacity density with 50 per cent improvement in energy efficiency. The system will give network operators the infrastructure they need to support growing mobile data needs, which are expected to reach 25 Exabytes per month by 2020, when 5G is expected to be commercialised. The new portfolio reduces total cost of ownership (TCO) by 20 per cent, he added.

Malawi to host African meeting on cassava production

EPRESENTATIVES of five African countries are in Malawi to interact with local entrepreneurs and experts to explore business prospects in the cassava production and processing.The countries include Kenya, Nigeria, Ghana, Tanzania and Uganda. According to the leader of Nigerian Investment Promotion, Alexander Osikhena, the team aims to

boost the incomes of small-scale African cassava farmers by linking them to new markets. "There are high market prospects both within and outside Malawi," he said. He said cassava can be used as a substitute for wheat as it is used to produce almost any products that are made from wheat and Malawi has vast potential. A survey is currently underway to as-

sess the cassava market base in the five countries and business prospects across the continent. He bemoaned low knowledge among small scale farmers and lack of reliable markets as a major challenge Malawi is facing. "There are challenges, which include low knowledge on production among small holder farmers, which in turn is also influencing a drop in the yields," he said.

O enable more Nigerians switch over to and enjoy digital television, StarTimes has launched its newest and most affordable bouquet called Nova ahead of the digital switch over deadline in 2015. The Nova bouquet went live nationwide on Monday, February 9. It is permanent and becomes the fourth bouquet available on StarTimes, specially designed for the entry level customers. Its introduction was aimed at further facilitating a smooth and convenient transition from analogue to digital broadcasting by creating the most affordable bouquet that anyone can afford. This is really to make it easier and comfortable for more Nigerians to get access and enjoy digital television without stress or missing their favorite television programmes when the analogue TV gets switched off later in 2015. The Nova bouquet will be retailing at just N500 per month giving more new subscribers access to a digital television experience with over 15 channels; 8 international channels, including Star Kungfu; Star Music; Star Dadin Kowa (Hausa Channel); E-Stars (Nollywood); Child Smile; CCTV-News; TBN; IQRAA and about 7 local Channels, including NTA news 24; NTA Sports; AIT; Channels TV; Silverbird; NTA Local; other state TV stations and other analogue TV stations such as TVC, MiTV, Super Screen and Galaxy. Public Relations Manager, (StarTimes) NTA Star-TV Network, said Mr. Israel Bolaji, said the new

digital TV bouquet was designed to offer new subscribers an affordable bundle that makes switching over to digital TV more convenient, promote refreshing television experience and create values that will deepen digital television penetration in Nigeria. In the coming days, more Nigerians will have to acquire type approved digital set top boxes, most of those, who will be affected by the switch over in 2015 are first time buyers. “We observed that the cost of acquiring the decoders is a major factor to growing access; we have therefore, considered making it very affordable for them to acquire and access our digital television service. We have also strengthened our customer feedback and interactive points like the call centre and after sales support services to further bolster our offering," noted Mr. Bolaji. Bolaji observed that the move was advised by the company's mission to ensure that every household enjoys digital television, noting that the company has rolled out extensive after sales services to ensure the best customer experience with the StarTimes set top box. “This is our strategy to ensure all Nigerians have access to digital television,” he said. He continued: "We are committed to a smooth transition from analogue to digital broadcasting while enabling Nigerians to overcome entry barriers through affordability as we equally showcase our premium channel offering and customer centered after sales services that will swiftly manage any challenges faced by our customers.”

THE NATION MONDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2015

THE NATION

BUSINESS INSURANCE

New IGI boss calls for review of insurance regulations

HE Group Managing Director, Industrial and General Insurance Plc (IGI), Rotimi Fashola, has called for a review of some of the regulations by the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM), saying such a measure would lead to a greater contribution of insurance products to the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Fashola, who has just been appointed CEO of IGI, said a re-examination of some of these policies would determine their effectiveness and ensure they are not counter-productive to the industry. He listed the ‘No Premium No Cover’, Inadmissible foreign investment; Restriction on insurance investments and recognition of offshore investments; Insurance of oil and gas imports; Cabotage Act 2003; Amendment of Companies Income Tax (Amendment) Act 2007 and Multiple taxation of insurance companies by different tiers of government as some of the issues begging for review. He urged the Commission to also look into government’s patronage of insurance services and the need for prompt payment of premium, Brokers’ yearly renewal of license and Investment in properties and the encroachment on insurance business by government agencies

Stories by Omobola Tolu-Kusimo

which try to provide insurance protection to aviation passengers and public liability for nuclear risks. Fashola also argued for the need by the government to support the quest for accelerated insurance penetration in Nigeria through micro insurance and takaful insurance, saying that NAICOM under the leadership of the current Commissioner, Fola Daniel and his deputies, has done well in stabilising the industry. He said: “The Commission deserves applause for introducing the Market Development and Restructuring Initiative (MDRI) designed to promote compulsory insurances, the rejuvenated policy of No Premium No Cover; the regulation on microinsurance and the exposure of the draft on market conduct guideline, that focuses regulation on ethics and best practice principles. NAICOM must be commended for always making it a point of duty to put the industry on notice early enough before full implementation and application. “However, for an industry that still needs to grow and contribute to the nation’s GDP, it is imperative that some of the current regulatory interventions are re-examined thoroughly to determine their effective-

ness and to ensure that they are not counter-productive,” he stated. On ‘No Premium No Cover’, Fashola explained that it is true that many government Ministries, Agencies and Departments (MDA) were no longer insuring their assets because of the delay experienced in the approval of their budget, adding that based on this, operators are advocating for these agencies to be exempted from No Premium No Cover, as this would encourage them to embrace Insurance. He said allowance should be made for this category since their receivables are always collected even when there’s delay. On investment in properties, he said the Insurance Act 2003, pegs investment in landed properties at 25 per cent and 35 per cent for General Business and Life Business respectively, arguing that this needs to be reviewed in the face of the crash in the stock market which led to some insurance companies losing much of their investment in the past. “The encroachment on insurance business by government agencies which try to provide insurance protection to aviation passengers and public liability for nuclear risks, is also an issue. The Federal Government in 2007 divested its interest

in Insurance business when it sold NICON and Nigeria Re, on the understanding that such concerns are better managed by the private sector. But ironically, the same Government extracted workmen’s compensation insurance business and transferred it to NSITF as Employee Compensation Scheme,” Fashola said. “In similar vein, the Federal Government transferred pension business from the insurance industry to the Pension Fund Administrators; while it also moved health insurance from the insurance industry to the Nigeria Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS). It is my hope that the income from both sides are credited to the Insurance industry in determining its true contribution to GDP, as the income should have been earned by insurance companies if not for government intervention and operation of the law. He said feelers from official quarters indicate that the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), under the Ministry of Aviation, is planning to establish insurance fund for aviation passengers’ liability. All over the world, aviation passengers’ liability is subject to international conventions and the risks are covered by conventional insurance policies; Nigeria cannot be an exception. Similarly, the Nuclear

Agency wants to establish fund for nuclear damage insurance, instead of seeking conventional Insurance cover for the risks which are covered in international insurance market. He continued: “Government and its agencies have been paying lip service to the importance and benefits of insurance, without serious patronage and support. There is hardly sufficient budget provision for payment of insurance premium by government and its agencies. Therefore, when insurance services are patronised, payment of the premium becomes an issue, a clear negation of the provisions of the law on “No premium, No cover”. Some government parastatals or enterprises are funded without allocation for insurance. Many insurance policies contracted by the MDAs in the past were not renewed, thus leaving the assets exposed to risk, damage and losses without insurance protection. “Many of the parastatals are no longer contracting insurance, certainly in breach of some of the compulsory insurances, because of the government budget system. It is my considered opinion that exemption be granted to Government in the strict application of Section 50, ‘No Premium No Cover’. The reason is that government debt is a statutory, sovereign debt which will be paid by succeeding administration.”

E-regulation coming, says NAICOM

• Acting Director-General, Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Mr. Mounir Gwarzo (2nd right); Chairman, Association of Reporting Accountants in the Capital Market, Mr. Ayodele Othihiwa (2nd left); Secretary of the association, Mr. Sola Oyetayo (right) and a member of the association Mr. Ladi Smith when the association executives visited the Acting DG in Abuja

Lagos to pay 305 CPS retirees N1.41b

HE Lagos State Government is set to pay another set of 305 workers who retired from the State Public Service N1.411 billion being their benefit before the commencement of the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS) in 2007, Director-General, Lagos State Pension Commission, Rotimi Adekunle Hussain has said. In a statement, the Commission’s Press & Public Relations Officer,

Taofeek Lawal Hussain, said the retirees would be receiving their retirement benefits during the 16th Retirement Bond Certificates presentation ceremony that will hold on 24th of February, 2015 at the Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA) auditorium in Lagos. He said the presentation ceremony is in fulfillment of the commitment of Governor Babatunde Raji Fashola, SAN, to

making life worthy of living for his workers whilst still in service and after retirement adding that the administration has not relented in its resolve at ensuring that the retirement benefits of every retiree is paid as and when due. He said during the 15th bond presentation, the state government paid a total sum of N30.47 billion to 5,773 retirees.

Firm holds award Thursday

HE Nigerian Insurance and Pension (Inspen) Award will hold on Thursday at 11:00am at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry Conference and Exhibition Centre, Alausa Ikeja.. A statement by the Chief Executive Officer, Inspen Media, Chuks Udo Okonta, said experts drawn from insurance and pension sec-

tors would be on hand to proffer solution to the plights of retirees and make contributions on how to improve retirement benefits operations. He noted that the lead paper titled: ‘Dimensioning Retirement Benefits’ will be delivered by the Managing Director of Lancelot Ventures Limited, Mr. Adebayo Adeleke.

Okonta said discussants were drawn from the National Insurance Commission; Nigerian Insurers Association; National Pension Commission; Lagos State Pension Commission; Nigerian Council of Registered Insurance Brokers; Pension Transition Arrangement Directorate and Pension Fund Operators Association of Nigeria.

HE National Insurance Commission (NAICOM) is gearing up to deploy its electronic platform in the regulation of the insurance industry by middle of this year, Director Research Strategy and Information Technology, Adamu Balanti has said. He made this known while outlining efforts of the commission to reposition the insurance industry in an interview with reporters. According to him, insurance operators will file their 2014 accounts through the e-platform that is presently being test-run while the e-platform would also kick-start the issuing of unique identification number to all insurance policyholders in the country. Highlighting the uniqueness of the policy, he said the identification system is to monitor and account for all policies issued. He said: “This system is to build an integration point for the various stakeholders involved in insurance policy issuance, generate and provide a unique identification number for every policy issued in order to track and provide relevant statistics on them. “It would help develop capacity in NAICOM to record all poli-

cies issued by Nigerian insurance companies, ensure proper accountability of all premium returns by insurance companies, capture all businesses done by every broker through the underwriter, ensure proper accountability of all insurance levies received from brokers, provide easy access to data regarding policies issued, and support analysis and policy based decision making.” “The portal provides a single point of access for all NAICOM services, validate the authenticity of insurance policies and accessible from any location within Nigeria.” Balanti emphasised that the system should be able to interact or communicate with other systems or users such as the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), the Nigeria Police Force, and the Vehicle Inspection Officers (VIO). “We want to identify each individual insurance policy issued in the country; this is why we are developing, what we call - Unique Policy Identifier (UPI). With it, each insurance policy document issued in the country will have a unique identification number. The Unique number will be used to identify that document,’’ he added.

Hurricane Sandy settlement lawsuits delayed in favour of negotiations

FEDERAL court in New York has indefinitely sus pended a hearing over lawsuits that accuse insurers of doctoring reports on home damages caused by Hurricane Sandy after a government agency said it hoped to settle the litigation out of court, Reuters has reported. A judicial panel had planned to examine evidence at the U.S. District Court in Brooklyn this week purportedly showing that some New York homeowners were denied federal flood insurance money as a result of

the altered reports after the historic 2012 storm. The Federal Emergency Management Agency, which administers the National Flood Insurance Program, filed a letter with the court this month saying it was seeking to meet privately with the Sandy plaintiffs and the insurance companies named as defendants in the lawsuits. In an order issued, the judicial panel said it was adjourning Thursday’s hearing indefinitely “to allow the parties to continue conducting meaningful settlement discussions.”

THE NATION MONDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2015

ISSUES The dust raised by the Bill on Private Companies Conversion and Listing Bill 2013, which recently passed the second reading is yet to settle. The bill seeks to compel companies with shareholders' funds and annual turnover exceeding N40 billion and N80 billion, respectively, to convert to public liability companies and get listed on the stock exchange. But the bill has not gone down well with members of the Organised Private Sector. They are kicking that the bill, when passed, would negatively affect their businesses, reports Assistant Editor OKWY IROEGBU-CHIKEZIE.

• Nigeria Stock Exchange.

Bickering over bill on private firms’ listing

HE Deputy Chairman, House Committee on Capital Market Institutions, Hon. Chris Emeka Azubogu, certainly had good intentions when he sponsored the 'Private Companies Conversion and Listing Bill 2013.' Azubogu and other members of the green chamber who threw their weight behind the bill, noted, for instance, that it would boost the economy by stabilising the macro-economic system. They also

envisaged that the bill, which provides for companies whose shareholders' funds exceed N40 billion or annual turnover exceed N80 billion or total assets exceed N80 billion to convert to public liability companies and get their shares listed on any stock exchange, would boost the contributions of the formal sector and the Nigerian capital market to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). However, what Azubogu probably never

envisaged was that the private member bill, which seeks to enable private companies operating in the country to comply with regulatory requirements of the constitution by registering with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), the apex regulatory body of the capital market, will become a subject of heated debate and controversy. Already, the bill is the butt of • Continued on page 26

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A lot of people have worked assiduously hard to bring their companies to where they are today. The decision of whether to raise funds from the public through the stock market or to allow the public own shares in their companies should be absolutely theirs to make

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THE NATION MONDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2015

ISSUES

Bickering over bill on private firms’ listing • Continued from page 25

scathing criticisms by members of the Organised Private Sector (OPS). Some of them are kicking, insisting that the bill is not only strange to the constitution, but would also negatively affect the business environment. Specifically, members of the OPS argue that the bill would create undesirable and unnecessarily cumbersome regulation and scrutiny on the companies under the Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA), SEC and Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) rules and regulations. While admitting that the 1999 Constitution vests the National Assembly (NASS) with power to make laws regulating the ownership and control of business enterprises operating in country, they however, pointed out that the bill, if passed, will be a reminiscent of the indigenisation decree era when many companies were forced to leave the country. That is not all. The proposed bill, which has already passed the second reading, the OPS members insisted, makes nonsense of the several representations made by government and private sector operators to attract foreign investors into the country. As far they are concerned the bill is counterproductive to the drive for foreign investments because foreign investors prefer to operate under stable economic policies. Besides, it will negatively affect Nigeria's reputation.

Nature of the Bill The bill, when passed into law, will compel a private company that falls into the category to, within 12 months from the commencement of the bill, take all necessary steps to convert from a private limited liability company to a public company within the provisions of Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA). Such a company shall, within 12 months from the date of conversion, take all necessary steps to list its shares on a stock market for brokerage. Azubogu said a private liability company, which the provision of the bill applies, shall maintain or cause to be maintained proper accounts and records to enable fair view to be formed of its assets, liabilities, income and expenditure. He added that the SEC shall in addition to its powers under the Investment and Securities Act 2007, have powers to administer the provision of the bill among others. He listed the incentives that companies that fall into this category shall enjoy as follows: If a company lists 40 per cent of its issued share capital, it shall be eligible for a tax incentive at a rate of onethird of its applicable income tax, 30 per cent of its issued share capital. It shall enjoy up to one-fourth of its applicable income tax while the company that issue up to 20 per cent of its called up capital will get oneeighth of its applicable income tax.

Members of OPS disagree Members of the OPS said after a careful and painstaking review of the private company's conversion and listing bill 2013, they came up with a number of conclusions. For instance, speaking through its Deputy Chairman, Commercial Law and Taxation Committee, Mr. Bimbo Atilola, the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) submitted that the proposed bill would negatively impact on local investment and the broader economy. Besides, the bill, LCCI said, would lead to considerable loss of revenue to the government. Mr. Atilola also argued that the NSE may not have the depth and liquidity needed for the investment arising out of the mandatory listing of these companies. Furthermore, he said the procedure for going public is expensive and onerous and not every investor or would-be investor local or foreign has the temperament for such. Moreover, he said it would impact negatively on corporate governance, which is the engine room critical for the survival of any company. He pointed out that listing on the floor of the Stock exchange is not a ticket to a

company becoming successful. In other words, listing a company's shares does not guarantee success of the relevant business. This is because some companies that have been listed were delisted, and those that converted to public entities were re-registered to private companies. "Going public and being listed on the floor of the stock market are critical business decisions that only the companies' management can make," he argued. According to LCCI, the main benefits of buying publicly quoted shares are capital appreciation and the ease of disposal. These two concepts depend largely on the operational success of the relevant business. The Chamber therefore, said bringing so many companies into the picture without any sound and strong basis for doing so other than complying with some laws could create a situation whereby the All Share Index continues to nose dive to the absolute embarrassment of the country. LCCI further said contrary to the supposed intention of the Bill to redistribute wealth, just a insignificant percentage of the populace, particularly the money bags would benefit, as it would give them opportunity to channel their wealth to purchasing shares in some target companies. It would also lead to a situation where investors in the stock market would sell their investments in some companies to acquire the shares of these target companies, thus grossly distorting the stock market. LCCI further argued that the Bill is antientrepreneurship and discourages innovation. "A lot of people have worked assiduously hard to bring their companies to where they are today. The decision of whether to raise funds from the public through the stock market or to allow the public own shares in their companies should be absolutely theirs to make," LCCI argued, adding that the Bill has no stipulation for the minimum percentage of the share capital to be offered to the public. This, it said, could lead to loss of absolute shareholder and Board control of the company. LCCI also sought to puncture arguments by proponents of the Bill that it will provide employment. According to the Chamber, the Bill will not necessarily create employment opportunities as many foreign investors have expatriated in their employment. Some even run highly mechanised or automated businesses. Besides, the Bill is said to be inconsistent with the Constitution and other laws regulating investments in the country. For instance, the LCCI pointed out that it contravenes the provisions of section 44 of the 1999 Constitution, which forbids compulsory acquisition of private property, and section 25 of the Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission Act which prohibits expropriation stating that "no person who owns, whether wholly or in part, the capital of any enterprise shall be compelled by law to surrender his interest in the capital to any other person". It is also against the spirit of the Bilateral Investment Treaties (BIT) between Nigeria and certain countries, and therefore poses a huge reputational risk for Nigeria. They added that the Bill is appropriative to the extent that it compels privately owned companies to offer their private equities for sale on the floor of the stock exchange. LCCI, therefore, threatened to work against the bill, insisting that it is unconstitutional and ultra vires. It pointed

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• Remi Bello

•Hon. Chris Emeka Azubogu

•Chairman African Capital Alliance, Dick Kramer

•Bola Adeeko

out that section 44 of the constitution prohibits compulsory acquisition of property whether movable or immovable, tangible or intangible, in any part of the country, and where such compulsory acquisition is carried out, there must be prompt payment of compensation. "To compel a person to give up his asset, other than under the exceptional circumstances created by the constitution would amount to expropriation, which is prohibited under the Nigerian law." LCCI said, insisting that private limited companies, due to a combination of factors, are preferred investment vehicles in Nigeria. They explained that the choice of foreign investment destination is informed by various considerations and the country's enabling legal environment for doing business is an important consideration.

Other private sector operators react The Chairman, African Capital Alliance, Mr. Dick Kramer, is one of those kicking. He said if the current bill is passed as proposed, many countries will distrust Nigeria and companies will decide to either stay or leave. He recalled the effect of the Indigenisation Decree of 1978 when companies were either forced to sell or lose their businesses. He therefore, expressed worries that the bill may force many companies to leave the country. This, he said, will affect foreign investment. "This is not a time to drive away private investment in non-oil sector. Nigeria needs

This is not a time to drive away private investment in non-oil sector. Nigeria needs to build a strong industrial base, put an enabling environment in place and ensure that private companies improve on compliance and corporate governance requirement. The world is a global village. Any attempt to nationalise businesses will have ugly consequences

’

to build a strong industrial base, put an enabling environment in place and ensure that private companies improve on compliance and corporate governance requirement. The world is a global village. Any attempt to nationalise businesses will have ugly consequences. This particular bill as it is will bring a down - turn in the next two to three years," Mr. Kramer told The Nation. Head Corporate Services Division, NSE, Mr. Bola Adeeko gave a different perspective on the issue. He said the bill should not be thrown out in its entirety. According to him, listing a company brings many advantages to the company and the public such as enhanced corporate governance including offering the public the opportunity to partake in the wealth of the individual companies. He also said this will allow private companies out last their original promoters. He regretted that from records, private companies have the least tax compliance rate in Nigeria, which probably the promoters of the bill sought to address. Adeeko however, picked holes in the portion of the bill that sought to make listing compulsory instead of allowing it to be an economic decision by the companies concerned. He insisted that such paradigm shift for every company should be left entirely to them as a business decision or strategy. Although, the issue is expected to come up for further debate following the reconvening of the House last week after its recess, the battle line appears to have been drawn between the lawmakers and private sector operators. Members of OPS are said to be preparing for a showdown with the lawmakers it they go ahead and pass the bill into law. Some of them are said to be suspicious that the Bill may be targeted at giving Nigerians access to the stupendous profits by big organisations in the telecommunication industry such as MTN, Etisalat and others such as British American Tobacco (BAT) and large consulting firms.

THE NATION MONDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2015

MONEYLINK

Interbank rates ease on retired N100b TBs

HE overnight lending rates fell to an average 25 per cent on Friday from a record high of 95 per cent fortnight ago, after the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) retired about N100 billion in Treasury Bills (TBs), dealers said. Traders said the repayment of matured Open Market Operation Treasury bills provided some liquidity in the market but not sufficient to lower the rates further because the cash was used up by lenders to buy TBs and foreign exchange.

Stories by Collins Nweze

The secured Open Buy Back and Overnight rates fell to 25 per cent each from 95 per cent previously. The CBN sold about N142 billion in TBs with maturities ranging between three-month and one-year last week. The Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) recalled some of its deposits with banks, cutting back on the level of available liquidity for transactions in the system. Banks’ cash balance with the CBN

stood at around N4.8 billion credit on Friday, compared with a deficit of around N25 billion on Monday, traders said. “We expect an increase in cash flow into the system this week because of possible disbursal of budgetary allocation for January to government agencies, and rates should fall below the 20 per cent level,” one dealer said. The Nigerian economy has lost more than 20 per cent in the past three months as oil prices collapsed and concern grew among investors

Skye Bank, Marine Platforms partner

KYE Bank Plc has increased the capability of one of its corporate customers, Marine Platforms Limited, by funding the acquisition of a multi-purpose support marine vessel that provides offshore support services to the Oil & Gas companies. Marine Platforms Limited is a frontline and the biggest indigenous service provider in the upstream sector of the oil and gas industry, providing wellbore clean out, subsea solutions and vessel chartering services in Nigeria and across the continent. Speaking at the unveiling and Vessel tour at the weekend, Group

Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Skye Bank Plc. Mr. Timothy Oguntayo, said the bank was happy to support indigenous participation and local content in the nation’s oil and gas sector, particularly the upstream end. He promised the bank’s continued partnership with and assistance to the company to enable it fulfill its vision and corporate objective of being an industry leader in the provision of support services to the oil & gas companies. The bank CEO said the lender would also avail the company of effective financial and other advisory services that will give it a com-

petitive edge in the industry due to the technical and complex nature of the industry. The Chief Executive Officer of Marine Platforms, Mr. Taofiq Adegbite, commended the bank for believing in the management by supporting their dream from inception, a factor he said has helped them to realize the company’s goals and dreams. “Skye Bank has been helpful from day one; they have provided us with the financial muscle needed to succeed in our line of business”, stressing that the company would continue to be proactive to stay relevant.

FBN Mortgages appoints new board

BN Mortgages Limited, a subsidiary of First Bank of Nigeria Limited, has announced the constitution of a new Board of Directors to provide superior value to all stakeholders. This it said, will also allow for increased thought leadership interventions and corporate governance consolidation in the conduct of its affairs.

The mortgage company was established to provide integrated mortgage solutions to individuals and property investors, fund the development of quality residential and commercial accommodation choices as well as facilitate acquisition via a wide range of innovative financial products and solutions across a wide range spectrum. The New Board is made up of emi-

nent persons who have displayed excellent business knowledge and board experience across an array of industries. The FBN Mortgages Board of Directors is led by its Chairman – Mr. Tunde Odunayo with Mr. Adenrele Oni as MD/CEO. Other members of the new board are Abdullahi Ibrahim, Otunba Bosede Osibogun, Olatubosun Ashiru, Titilayo Ahmadu and Dr. Umaru Kwairangfa.

about political stability after the six-week postponement of the Feb. 14 elections. Meanwhile, bonds yields are seen rising this week on the back of tight naira liquidity that may spur a sell off by investors in need of cash, while longer dated Kenyan debt could be in demand. Traders said yields climbed slightly on some maturities when investors reduced their positions after the naira currency lost more than 20 percent to the dollar in the past three months. The naira tumbled as global oil prices collapsed and concern grew about political stability. “Some investors... would rather reduce further their

•CBN Governor Godwin Emefiele

positions until after the election when the outlook will become clearer,” one dealer said.

Access Bank praised by customers

CCESS Bank Plc has been commended for its display of affection during the Valentine’s Day celebration. In line with the bank’s aspiration to build a long-standing relationship with its customers, the Bank introduced a campaign whereby several customers were given Valentine’s Day gifts. The Campaign which was tagged #LoveAll250 was aimed at celebrating unity in diversity. Taking into cognizance that there are over 250 languages in Nigeria, the campaign particularly focused on breaking down language and cultural barriers through the promotion of love, peace and unity. Speaking on how the campaign was successfully organized, the Head of Strategic Brand Management, Access Bank Plc, Amaechi Okobi said #LoveAll250 which ran for two weeks from February 2 to 15 was aimed at celebrating Nigeria’s unity in diversity. According to him, the campaign involved social media fans win-

ning gifts on behalf of their nominees and coming from the angle that love can be expressed in more than 250 ways, social media fans were asked to express love in their own ways by posting pictures that speak love. They were also required to nominate a special person who should get gifts from the Bank. “These nominees were 250 in number and they got Cakes from the Bank free of charge on Valentine’s Day”, he stated. A customer of the bank, who is also a recipient of the gift, Judith Warelagha described the Cake as the most wonderful gift she ever got from any financial institution. “Access Bank has proven beyond reasonable doubt that they are a responsive institution that is sensitive to happenings around the society. I never dreamt of getting a cake from any other person apart from my fiancée who I was told nominated me, but Access Bank has truly surprised me,” Warelagha noted.

MEMORANDUM QUOTATIONS AFRINVEST W. A. EQUITY FUND ARM AGGRESSIVE GROWTH BGL NUBIAN FUND BGL SAPPHIRE FUND CANARY GROWTH FUND CONTINENTAL UNIT TRUST CORAL INCOME FUND FBN FIXED INCOME FUND FBN HERITAGE FUND FBN MONEY MARKET FUND FIDELITY NIG FUND • UBA BALANCED FUND • UBA BOND FUND • UBA EQUITY FUND • UBA MONEY MARKET FUND

123.29 38,449.90 9.17 1.12 0.63 1.39 1,750.31 1,102.92 113.06 121.16 1.67 1.29 1.32 0.95 1.17

123.03 38,449.90 9.08 1.12 0.62 1.33 1,750.31 1,102.14 112.45 120.30 1.62 1.28 1.32 0.93 1.17

GAINERS AS AT 19-02-15

SYMBOL ASHAKACEM PRESCO MAYBAKER DANGFLOUR UBA UPL OKOMUOIL VITAFOAM FBNH FLOURMILL

O/PRICE 17.22 29.40 1.41 3.16 3.15 4.00 33.89 3.42 7.10 30.00

C/PRICE 18.98 32.38 1.55 3.47 3.41 4.20 35.58 3.59 7.45 31.48

10.22 10.14 9.93 9.81 8.25 5.00 4.99 4.97 4.93 4.93

O/PRICE

CADBURY TRANSCORP CHAMPION MANSARD UNILEVER HONYFLOUR STERLNBANK NAHCO FIDELITYBK UBCAP FO

42.98 2.66 5.35 2.96 34.00 2.96 2.25 4.75 1.20 1.33 222.00

C/PRICE 38.80 2.45 5.00 2.82 32.56 2.90 2.21 4.70 1.19 1.32 220.00

CHANGE -9.73 -7.89 -6.54 -4.73 -4.24 -2.03 -1.78 -1.05 -0.83 -0.75 -0.72

R-DAS ($/N)

169.680

Interbank ($/N)

199.100

Black Market ($/N)

210.000

ECONOMIC INDICATORS

Inflation: December

CBN EXCHANGE RATES (RDAS) February 11, 2015

Currency

Buying (N)

Selling (N)

$33.2b

US Dollar

167

168

$60.91

Pounds Sterling

251.7525

253.26

Euro

189.5617

190.6968

Swiss Franc

180.1122

181.1907

Yen

1.4231

1.4316

CFA

0.2689

0.2889

234.5928

235.9975

Yuan/Renminbi

26.6837

26.8444

Riyal

44.4908

44.7582

SDR

235.2863

236.6952

Monetary Policy Rate

13.0%

Foreign Reserves Oil Price (Bonny Light/b)

CHANGE

LOSERS AS AT 19-02-15

SYMBOL

FOREX RATES (NairaVs Dollar) February 13, 2015

Money Supply (M2)

N16.42 trillion.

Credit to private Sector (CPS)

N17.2 trillion

Primary Lending Rate (PLR)

16.5%

NIGERIAN INTER-BANK OFFERED RATES (NIBOR)

Tenor

12-02-15 Rate (%) Rate (%) 13-02-15

Overnight (O/N)

14.683

76.583

15.033

15.977

15.809

17.177

16.493

17.908

Transaction Dates 03/02/2015 3/12/2014 1/12/2014

Amount Offered in ($) 500m 400m 350m

Amount Sold in ($) 499.93m 399.97m 349.96m

WAUA

GOVT. SECURITIES YIELD – SECONDARY MARKET

Tenor

Feb. 13, 2015

Rates

T-bills - 91

12.44

T-bills - 182

13.85

T-bills - 364

13.92

Bond - 3yrs

15.92

Bond - 5yrs

17.22

Bond - 7yrs

16.59

THE NATION MONDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2015

EQUITIES NIGERIAN STOCK EXCHANGE DAILY SUMMARY AS AT 20-02-15

DAILY SUMMARY AS AT 20-02-15

THE NATION MONDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2015

EQUITIES

Nigerian equities gain N600 on 20,805 deals N

IGERIAN equities staged a strong recovery last week as bargain-hunters scrambled to take positions in undervalued stocks ahead of the earnings season. Against the background of a loss of N801 billion two weeks ago, bargain-hunters sought to catch on prevailing low prices at the stock market, triggering a modest bullish rally that built up through the five successive trading sessions. Aggregate market value of all

Stories by Taofik Salako Capital Market Editor

quoted companies at the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) closed weekend at N9.804 trillion as against N9.204 trillion recorded as opening value for the week, representing a gain of N600 billion. The All Share Index (ASI)-the composite value-based index that tracks prices of all quoted equities and doubles as Nigeria’s sovereign equity index, recorded a week-on-

FBN Capital wins award

BN Capital Limited has been awarded the ‘Africa Oil and Gas Deal of the Year Award’ for the Oando Energy Resources $350 million Conoco Phillips assets acquisition deal. The award was conferred at the IJGlobal Europe & Africa Awards 2014, organized by the Infrastructure Journal & Project Finance Magazine yesterday at the Natural History Museum in London. FBN Capital Limited, a subsidiary of FBN Holdings Plc acted as Joint Mandated Lead Arranger and financial modeling bank for the corporate facility to part-fund purchase of Conoco Phillips’ participating interest in OMLs 60, 61, 62, 63, 131 and 145 by Oando Energy Resources. The total consideration for the acquisition of approximately $1.6 billion was financed via a combination of debt and equity, with the debt portion of the acquisition facility comprising of a $450 Million RBL Facility provided by both Nigerian and offshore banks; and a $350 Million Corporate Facility provided by Nigerian banks. The funds were provided by First Bank of Nigeria, Diamond Bank,

FCMB, Ecobank, Zenith Bank, UBA, Vitol and Enterprise Bank. Other financial parties to the transaction include FBN Trustees as Security Agent; First Bank of Nigeria as Hedge Provider; and FCMB Capital Markets also as Joint Mandated Lead Arranger. Speaking on the award, the Managing Director, FBN Capital Mr. Kayode Akinkugbe said the company would continue to strive to deliver deals that justify the confidence of the clients. “We are very pleased to have won this award, and remain inspired by the trust our clients place in us to help them achieve success. We will continue to strive to raise the bar on industry standards with regard to deal-making and structuring,” Akinkugbe. Director and Head, Debt Solutions, FBN Capital, Patrick Mgbenwelu, also expressed his pleasure on winning the award. “We feel honored to be recognized for the effort that the client, every member of the team, as well as every party to the transaction put into making this deal a reality,” Mgbenwelu said.

week average gain of 6.52 per cent to close at 29,383.93 points. It had opened the week at 27,585.26 points. Most value-based indices showed widespread bullish sentiments with banking stocks recording the strongest rally. The NSE 30 Index, which tracks the 30 most capitalized stocks at the Exchange, recorded a weekly gain of 7.22 per cent. The NSE Banking Index appreciated by 11.33 per cent. The NSE Consumer Goods Index rose by 4.21 per cent. The NSE Oil and Gas Index also climbed by 7.17 per cent. NSE Industrial Goods Index also appreciated by 6.53 per cent while the NSE Lotus Islamic Index, which tracks Shari’a-compliant stocks, improved by 8.08 per cent. However, the NSE Insurance

Index slipped by 0.58 per cent. The widespread bullish rally moderated the overall year-to-date market position with average yearto-date return improving to -15.22 per cent. It had opened the week at 20.41 per cent. Nigerian equities outperformed most advanced and emerging markets. Russia’s RTS indicated a gain of 5.3 per cent. China’s Shanghai Composite Index rose by 1.3 per cent. Brazil’s Bovespa index gained 0.9 per cent. India’s BSE Sens appreciated by 0.5 per cent. South Africa’s JSE All Share Index rose by 0.1 per cent. European markets were largely positive. The Japan’s Nikkei 225, France’s CAC 40, Hong Kong’s Hang Seng and Germany’s XETRA

DAX rose by 2.3 per cent, 0.8 per cent, 0.6 per cent and 0.1 per cent respectively. Aggregate turnover at the Nigerian market stood at 2.08 billion shares worth N22.47 billion in 20,805 deals. The financial services sector remained the dominant group with 1.65 billion shares valued at N10.73 billion traded in 12,348 deals; representing 78.98 per cent and 47.74 per cent of the total equity turnover volume and value respectively. The trio of Access Bank Plc, United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc and Guaranty Trust Bank Plc accounted for 749.04 million shares worth N6.64 billion in 4,558 deals, representing 35.96 per cent and 29.54 per cent of the total equity turnover volume and value respectively.

•Acting Director General, Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Mr. Mounir Gwarzo (right) welcoming one of the shareholders leaders and the National Coordinator of the Association for the Advancement of Rights of Nigerian Shareholders (AARNS), Dr. Faruk Umar) to his office in Abuja during the visit of shareholders’ leaders to the Commission.

Flobal Trust promises bespoke financial services

•Adeyeri

ORMER Regional Head, Public Sector, South-South and South-East for Ecobank Nigeria Limited, Mr. Abayomi Adeyeri, has assumed office as the chief marketing officer of Flobal Trust Limited with a promise to provide meaningful financial services and products that will help individuals and companies achieve their objectives. Flobal Trust Limited is licensed by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) as a corporate

investment and financial advisory firm. Incorporated in August 2007, the Effurun, Warri, Delta Statebased firm has nearly a decade experience providing tailor-made financial services and products to a diversified client base that includes private clients, small and medium businesses, corporations and high net worth individuals. Adeyeri, who holds an MBA in marketing, voluntarily resigned last week from Ecobank Nigeria to settle into his new role as the chief marketing officer of Flobal Trust Limited. Until his retirement, he was in charge of the bank’s public sector business in the entire 11 states in South-South and SouthEast directorate. He was responsible for providing excellent leadership and strategies that ensured that the bank remained competitive in the business unit. To his credit, Adeyeri initiated and instituted a new public sector business model that broke down the directorate to 10 clusters with cluster heads responsible for business growth in their respective busi-

•Adeyeri becomes chief marketing officer ness areas, a strategy that helped to enhance overall performance. Adeyeri brings considerable experience, especially in strategies and marketing to his new job. He joined Ecobank Nigeria as head of marketing in 2004 in the course of an illustrious nearly two decades banking experience that spanned Ecobank, Diamond Bank and Prudent Bank. At every point, he had been credited with many milestones. He was the country head for the hugely successful Ecobank Nigeria’s Management Information System (MIS) Codification Project. Adeyeri said his focus at Flobal Trust would be to deepen the bouquet of bespoke products and services that could help to further unlock the immense potential of the Nigerian economy. According to him, by providing individual and institutional clients with amenable financial options, advisory services, planning and supportive capacity building, Flobal Trust will

take more Nigerian companies and individuals to higher levels. He outlined that Flobal Trust is designed and well structured to serve as a one-stop financial service centre for capital and money market transactions, corporate finance, financial planning, general advisory services and capacity building. “We are a value-adding company. We are involved in the entire value chain of financial planning, execution and evaluation for individuals and companies. Our main purpose is to ensure customers are satisfied with our products and services. With the experience of our team, we provide supports across the line; helping individuals and companies to create wealth and manage this wealth,” Adeyeri said. He added that Flobal Trust has served as a role-modeling firm in the quest for a more productive and prosperous Nigeria by equipping individuals in both private and public sectors with the understand-

ing, skills and access to information, knowledge and training that enables them to perform effectively on their job with the objective of improving productivity. Some of the tailor-made products include Flobal Plural Account, an individual-based money market product; Flobal Corporate Advances PLUS, an asset product structured for oil and gas affiliated establishments and Flobal Individual Advances PLUS, a premier-packaged product for Flobal Trust customers. Flobal Trust Limited recently collaborated with Klass and Korporate Consultant to train civil servants of board of internal revenue in Rivers State. It also organized training on investment planning for Delta Area Chevron Employee Multipurpose Cooperative Society as well as Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation in Warri. Some of Flobal Trust high-end corporate clients include Wellmann Group, Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) and Chevron Nigeria Limited.

NSE upgrades trading engine to boost market efficiency

HE Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) at the weekend upgraded its trading engine and the market’s FIX order management system (OMS) to enhance efficiency and functionality of the trading system. A report, obtained by The Nation, indicated that the NSE, added about seven new features to its XStream trading workstation and made three major enhancements to the OMS. The NSE had launched its current trading engine in September 2013. The current trading engine known as X-Gen is a version of NASDAQ X-Stream developed by NASDAQ OMX System, a global financial ser-

vices powerhouse. The trading platform is based on a number of leading technologies, including NASDAQ OMX’s XStream matching engine, and the NSE’s flexible and robust X-GEN Market Database, developed from scratch by the NSE and its technical partners. XGen has been described as the fastest trading engine in Africa. The new features to the X-Gen included several windows that allow stockbrokers to track the underlining tempo of the market movement and also make clearer evaluation of the yield status of debt instruments. Besides, the changes also allow for greater flow of communication among stockbroking firms

while trading. According to the report, the new features allow security prices to be visible in the crossing and negotiated deals order forms while accrued interest, dirty and clean prices are now visible for debt orders. Also, the results table maintains all trading day data and is persisted even after logging off from XStream, brokers can now send inter-firm messages to each other, a new table-trade summary tables, has now been included which shows the total values, volumes per security and by account with grand totals, ice-berg order can be entered with a visible and a hidden quantity while firm drop down

menu in trading accounts search dialog box should not allow the selection of any other firm, a situation that has now been corrected. The OMS, which coordinates orders from scores of stockbrokers trading simultaneously from their remote or office locations and trading floors of the Exchange, has also been made more flexible to accommodate various orders. With the additions, the OMS now allows whole or none (WON) order from stockbrokers. WON implies that the stockbroker intends to buy the entire quantity as a single buy and will as such not take any quantity lower than the stipulated ordered quantity. For instance,

where a stockbroker places a WON for 500,000 shares and there are 450,000 shares available, the OMS will not allot the 450,000 shares for the stockbroker since it is lower than his ordered quantity. The FIX OMS has also been adjusted to differentiate the TOP/ TOV and TCP/TCV tags while the routing of iceberg/ hidden orders is now possible through the FIX to the Exchange. The NSE indicated that the new features were part of ongoing efforts to improve service delivery to the investing public with a view to delivering increased functionality and bug fixes for the stockbrokers.

THE NATION MONDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2015

Taxation How to file your tax returns on the FIRS electronic Platform Requirements for e-filing

HE Taxpayer must have registered and obtained TIN before accessing the e- filing platform. • A duly completed access form obtainable from the FIRS site or the Tax Office where the taxpayer affairs are handled must be completed and submitted. • The access creation takes cognisance of the type of access rights given to User by the Chief Executive Officer [CEO] or Managing Director [MD] or Principal Officer of the Company. The User’s credentials/profile in this case would have been spelt out on the access form that was completed by the CEO/MD or Principal Officer of the Company. The User may include an employee and or a Tax Consultant. • The access right delegated to the User may be withdrawn through notification to the Tax Office by the CEO/MD or Principal Officer of the Company. • Upon submission of the access form, the assigned officer of the Taxpayer Service Unit in the Tax Office creates the User using the User’s profile stated on the access form. • The details on the access form is used to generate User ID[i.e. Username and Password] • It is required that the Password is instantly changed upon first log in. • The information given in the access form will determine which of the access rights the user is entitled to. These include - View only - Declare (i.e file returns) - TIN Validation - Submission and upload of supporting documents (tax and non-tax related) - TCC Validation • It requires access to internet gateways such as; internet explorer not below 10, google chrome or any fire fox etc. Steps to filing tax returns 1.Download the e-filing access application form from http://www.firs.gov.ng/Tax-Management/Pages/ITAS-e-Filing-Platform.aspx 2. Complete the form and indicate your desired access right. 3. Return completed form to the FIRS office where your tax matters are treated. 4. Obtain your username and password from the tax office having used the information on your form to generate it. 5. log on to e-filing platform either from the FIRS site stated above or through the addresshttps:// efiling.firs.gov.ng. 6. Change your password upon initial log in. 7. Upon successful log in, you are positioned on the e-filing page to file any declarations/returns which need to be filed. 8. To start your declaration, click on the “View all declarations to be filed” hyperlink or on the “Taxpayer Service” tab to select the tax types you want to file and double click on the plus (+) sign. 9. Click on the “File now” hyperlink. 10.On the tax return form displayed, identify relevant Line Details to complete or schedule to upload. 11. Enter the amounts for the required form lines

in the filing currency previously authorized for the tax account for which you are filing or you can upload csv filefor both the formlines and/or schedule. The upload from csv file is explained in note 1 after step 18 below. 12. Click on the “Submit declaration” button. 13. Verify and ensure that the amounts entered are correct,if not click “back” to go back and make corrections. 14 Click on “Yes” for the returns to be submitted. 15 Click on “End Declaration Process” hyperlink. 16. View Filed Declaration page which gives you a summary of your declaration; the document number is displayed at the top right hand corner. 17. Copy the document number which is required at the bank to settle the tax liabilityor you print the submitted declaration by clicking the print button for you to see the filed declaration with document number on it. itas.change@firs.gov.ng; 18. Contact itasproject@firs.gov.ng; 08115900301; 08115900021 for further enquiries. Note: A. CSV configuration for shedule upload in SIGTAS and E-filing The schedule prepared in excel file must be saved in CSV file • The CSV - Comma Separated Value is used to import information or data in excel to the system. • Before saving any excel file for CSV upload, the computer system must be in decimal separator configuration. • To configure a system to decimal separator, you click file at the menu bar, click on options and select advance on the second screen. • Check the decimal separator box and enter a comma ( , ). The system is now on decimal sepeaator. This is done only once for a system • There and then you save the excel with csv dos[disc operating system], comma delimited and others excluding Macintosh. This is the only csv version that does not work with SIGTAS. • The CSV can work with or without labels. If it is with labels, it means information to be uploaded must have headings at first column and first row, but where labels are not checked in, it will exclude the first row and first column that carry the headings. B. System requirements for e-filing • Internet Explorer not below 10 • Google Chrome and • Any Fire Fox C. Truncated declaration process This may be caused either by network/power failure, session time out or the e-filer who may discontinue the declaration process to seek further clarification or gather additional information. In either case, the e-filer can relog-in and continue from where he/she stopped by clicking on “in progress” and complete the declaration. Taxes that can be filed using e-filing Platform for now • Petroleum Profit Tax • Education Tax • Companies Income Tax • Value Added Tax • National Information Technology Levy

• Acting Executive Chairman, FIRS, Alhaji Kabir Mohammed

Mashi

• Capital Gains Tax Documentations required when making e-filing Beside system requirements earlier mentioned, the following documents are required when conducting e-filing: • Relevant Tax Returns • Relevant Excel Schedules saved in appropriate CSV file Benefits of e-filing E-filing platform provides the following benefits: • Self-service Platform using a personal computer, laptop, tablet or any device with a connection to the internet, from the comfort of your home, work or any place that is convenient to you. • It saves your time and money as the returns are filed online. You do not need to produce hardcopy returns and transport yourself to tax office to submit tax returns. • Promotes voluntary compliance due to its convenience. • Keep your information secure and confidential. The e-filing environment is secured and safe with your User ID and password, ITAS/SIGTAS platform will ensure that your tax information will be safe and confidential. • The system takes all submissions by taxpayers as self assessment • The system does the calculation at back-end for you. The Declaration [Tax Return] Forms are system driven, that is the formlines are linked to back-end computation and helps taxpayers to avoid common errors like using wrong rates and committing arithmetical mistakes. • Promotes transparency and boost taxpayer confidence and trust in the system • Saves taxpayer the rigours of going to tax office to confirm TIN and apply for TCC • Taxpayer can update her profiles without going to tax office to do so • Taxpayer can use message centre to make enquiries and receive instant reply for tax office • Tax account balance can easily be queried from the e-filing environment before taxpayer applies for Tax Clearance Certificate (TCC)

THE NATION MONDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2015

THE NATION

BUSINESS JOBS

• Pupils in a tutorial class

Parents want the best for their children. So they go out of their way to get teachers for them at home. This is why the demand for home tutors at the primary and secondary education levels is increasing these days, reports Assistant Editor CHIKODI OKEREOCHA.

T 28, Amaechi Goodluck, a 400-Level English/ Christian Religious Knowledge student of Adeniran Ogunsanya College of Education, Lagos, is off to a good start. She is taking no fewer than nine pupils with ages between three and 14 in private lesson. The Abia State-born budding teacher told The Nation that the pupils attend schools in IyanaIpaja, a Lagos suburb, where Goodluck is one of the most sought after /home tutors. “I have been into this for eight years fulltime, and it’s been a wonderful and rewarding experience,” she said, adding, “Most of the parents who enrol their children for extra classes do so on the recommendation of other

Wanted: Home tutors parents whose children I also coach at home.” Some of the her pupils, she said, have gained admission into tertiary institutions. One of them, she said, is an undergraduate of Bowen University in Iwo, Osun State. She said because of her inability to meet the increasing demand for her services, she has introduced six other people into the job. This is instructive because most of her peers are either still in school or searching for jobs. Pointing out that her desire is to

set up a thriving private school in future, she said opportunities abound in the education sector for unemployed youths wishing to work as part-time or full time home tutors. From crèche to nursery, primary and secondary levels, she said, home tutors are in high demand. She said although she takes nursery/primary, secondary and adult education classes, she hopes to incorporate university undergraduates when she completes her degree programme.

Job in high demand Across the country, private coaching is the in thing. Young and enterprising youths are taking advantage of the rot in the education sector to become sole entrepreneurs as home tutors. The Nation learnt that while some of them prefer teaching pupils at home, others have coaching centres. Such coaching centres abound in every nook and cranny of major cities.

The number of jobs created could not be ascertained, but it could be proportional to the number of those that require the service. Although some home tutors, who spoke with The Nation declined to say how much they charge, it was learnt that the fee range from N10,000 to N50,000 per month, depending on the location. With nine students under her, it means that Goodluck takes home about N90,000 monthly, an amount considered a dream by many in corporate organisations. It also means that home tutors for wealthy Nigerians whose children attend upscale schools cannot wish for •Continued on page 32

THE NATION MONDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2015

JOBS •Continued from page 31

a better employment.

Why the high demand? What is responsible for the increasing demand for the services of home tutors and operators of coaching centres? Some public and private schools, Goodluck, said, lack the resources to hire qualified teachers to handle pupils, hence; parents are left to fill the gap with home tutors. She said private teachers especially those with skill, passion, and commitment are rising up to the challenge. That is not all. She also identified instability as another factor fuelling the demand for private teachers. “There is lack of stability. Some schools change teachers every term in various subject areas, which affects students’ academic performance and to make up for the lapses, most parents engage the services of private tutors. Distortions in the academic calendar due to persistent strikes by teachers especially those in public schools also contribute, as parents resort to private teachers to ensure continuity in the school curriculum,” she said. Home tutors are exploiting the gap in the provision of qualitative education to make a killing, especially during the long vacation. During the holiday, most parents would rather have their children benefit from extra classes by home tutors or enrol in a summer coaching centre until the beginning of a new academic session. Parents reason that this would ensure that their kids still remember what they were taught, in the last session. During the holiday, many pupils are likely to forget what they were

Wanted: Home tutors

are challenges. One of them is how to manage time. As Goodluck explained, most of her pupils close by 4 pm and so, need some time to eat, shower and freshen up before the extra classes. This, she said, eats into the time she allocates for each pupil. With many pupils under her, how to manage time becomes a challenge. To get round the problem, she said she takes on three pupils from three different families on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, allocating one hour to each of them. Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays are allocated to three other pupils for one hour. She said while she has managed to make effective use of her time and schedule, some others may not be able to do the same.

Attributes

• Minister of Education Ibrahim Shekarau

taught and as such would require the services of private teachers to be in shape academically. Keeping the children busy academically also helps to reduce the nuisance some of them constitute at home. There is also a psychological per-

• Miss Goodluck

spective to the upsurge in private tutorials, which has opened a new employment vista for discerning youths. The belief, for instance, is that if children are taught the same thing again and again, they tend to lose interest or get easily bored be-

cause, according to psychologists, human beings need varieties, change, and stimulation.

Challenges However, as exciting and highly rewarding as the business is, there

As challenging as the job may be, an interesting thing about it is that it does not require any specialised qualification; rather, it depends on the level one wishes to operate. The only exception perhaps, is that those wishing to coach university undergraduates require at least a first degree or a master’s degree in relevant discipline. But for those handling nursery/primary and secondary school pupils, Senior Secondary Certificate Examination (SSCE) or its equivalent is required. Beyond certificate however, Goodluck advises that passion, commitment, diligence and patience are qualities required for anyone to excel in the business. These, she said, are some of the qualities that will earn the home tutor the trust and confidence of parents and their children.

CAREER MANAGEMENT

HE interview is one of the most important elements in the job search process. When an employer invites you to an interview, he/she is indicating an interest in bringing you on board. The interview gives both of you the opportunity to exchange enough information to determine if you are a good “fit” for each other. Think of an interview as a highly focused professional conversation. You should use the limited amount of time you have to learn about an employer’s needs and discuss the ways you can meet these needs. In many cases, you will interview at least twice before being hired for a position. Once in a brief screening interview and at least once again in a more serious meeting when you may also speak with many of your potential co-workers. The job interview is a strategic conversation with a purpose. Your goal is to show the employer that you have the skills, background, and ability to do the job and that you can successfully fit into the organisation and its culture. The interview is also your opportunity to gather information about the job, the organisation, and future career opportunities to figure out if the position and work environment are right for you. Most employers do not hire people based on merit alone. Personality, confidence, enthusiasm, a positive outlook, and excellent interpersonal and communication skills count heavily in the selection process. After your cover letter and résumé, the interview is your best opportunity to wow the employerregardless of your background and experience. To do this, use every possible strategy to develop effective interviewing skills. The best way is to prepare a selective presentation of your background, thoughtful answers to potential interview questions, well-researched questions about the organisation, and an effective strategy to market yourself.

Making a success of job interview By Olu Oyeniran

Also consider your career goals and what the available job offers so that you can discuss both of these topics with employers. Interviewing is a skill that improves and becomes easier with practice. Check with your school career center or your local Employment Service office to see if it offers workshops and individual videotaped mock interviews for practice.

Research It is to your advantage to carefully research the job and the organisation. There are many ways to do this. You can request printed materials from the employer, such as annual reports and job descriptions. This is an entirely appropriate request, so don’t hesitate to make it. Use your library and career center resources. Ask colleagues, friends, and faculty about the organisation, and about any personal contacts at the organisation they might have. Look at the organisation’s home page. Knowing about the job will help you prepare a list of your qualifications so that you can show, point by point, why you are the best candidate.

Practice, practice, practice Prepare a succinct, clear answer to each of the questions in the interview questions section. Practice answering questions with a friend, or in front of a mirror. Ask your friend to give you constructive criticism on your speaking style, mannerisms, and poise. As you practice, avoid colloquialisms, such as “like” and “you know.” Make sure you don’t script all your answers-you’ll sound as though you’re reading cue cards! It’s important to prepare yourself for talk-

ing with complete strangers.

Find out the logistics of the interview The more you know, the more focused your answers will be. Find out when the interview is scheduled, what to expect during it, and how long you will be there. Also find out if you will be talking to just one person, or to several.

Be prompt and professional Always arrive early. If you don’t know where the organisation is located, call for exact directions in advance. Leave some extra time for any traffic, parking, or unpredictable events. If you are running late, call right away and let someone know. The best time to arrive is approximately five to 10 minutes early. Give yourself the time to read your résumé one more time, to catch your breath, and to be ready for the interview. Once you’re at the office, treat everyone you encounter with respect. Be pleasant to everyone as soon as you walk in the door.

Dress for success Wear a professional business suit. This point cannot be emphasised enough. First impressions are extremely important in the interview process. Women should avoid wearing too much jewelry or make up. Men should avoid flashy suits or wearing too much cologne. It is also important that you feel comfortable. While a suit is the standard interview attire in a business environment, if you think it is an informal environment, call before

and ask. Regardless, you can never be overdressed if you are wearing a tailored suit.

Be organised Carry a portfolio notepad or at the very least a manila file folder labeled with the employer’s name. Bring extra résumés and have the names, addresses and phone numbers of references, in case the employer asks. Also, bring a list of questions for the employer. You may refer to your list of questions to be sure you’ve gathered the information you need to make a decision. Do not be preoccupied with taking notes during the interview.

Know yourself You will make the interview process easier for the employer if you volunteer relevant information about yourself. Think about how you want to present your strengths, experiences, education, work style, skills, and goals. Be prepared to supplement all your answers with examples that support the statements you make. It is also a good idea to review your résumé with a critical eye and identify areas that an employer might see as limitations or want further information. Think about how you can answer difficult questions accurately and positively, while keeping each answer brief.

Be honest An interview gives the employer a chance to get to know you. While you do want to market yourself to the employer, answer each question with an honest response.

Be positive Never say anything negative about past experiences, employers, or courses and professors. Always think of something positive about an experience and talk about that. You should also be enthusiastic. If you are genuinely interested in the job, let the interviewer know that.

Show your interest One of the best ways to show you are interested in a job is to demonstrate that you have researched the organisation prior to the interview. You can also show interest by asking questions about the job, the organisation, and its services and products. The best way to impress an employer is to ask questions that build upon your interview discussion. This shows you are interested and paying close attention to the interviewer. It is a good idea to prepare a few questions in advance, but an insightful comment based on your conversation can make an even stronger statement. At the end of an interview, it is appropriate for you to ask when you may expect to hear from the employer.

Save discussion of salary for later Find out as much as you can before the interview about the salary levels for the position you are seeking. Do not bring up the issue of salary during the first interview. If the interviewer asks about your salary expectations, give only a general answer, such as that your expectations seem to be within, or close to their range. •Oyeniran is Lead Consultant, EkiniConsult & Associates. He can be reached on Jobsearchhow.com.ng Tel 08083843230 (SMS Only).

THE NATION MONDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2015

THE CEO

‘We are repositioning Commodity Exchange’

• Mrs Baba-Ari

Despite poor funding, the management of Nigeria Commodity Exchange (NCX) is determined to make it the West Africa’s commodity trading hub. Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer Mrs Zaheera Baba-Ari, tells Assistant Editor NDUKA CHIEJINA what the Exchange has been up to.

HY did the Commodity Exchange change its name? The Exchange’s name was changed to reflect its national outlook. Prior to that time people alluded that it was an ‘Abuja Exchange’, which was not true; it is a national Exchange. What role is the Exchange playing in the actualisation of the present administration’s Agriculture Transformation Agenda? NCX is actually central to ATA as it is the marketing end of the agricultural value chain. In accordance with the ATA, after in-

crease in productivity of agricultural commodities by farmers, the next link of the value chain is storage and a market for the produce and that is where the Exchange comes in; with standard and Exchange accredited warehouses and an organised trading platform. How far has the privatisation of the Exchange gone? The privatisation is at the very preliminary stages; therefore,regular exchange activities will continue till it is eventually privatised. How is the Exchange coping with the pau-

city of funds to run its operations? We are coping as best as we can in the face of limited funds. We are wooing donor agencies to attract funding for specific programmes. The government, however, realises the importance of NCX in engendering a revolution in the agricultural sector and achieving an improved livelihood for farmers. In this regard, the CBN is collaborating with the Exchange and two other relevant institutions, whereby the Exchange plays a key role in providing accredited warehouses and a trading platform through its pilot

Warehouse Receipt System (WRS). For some time now, the CBN has been nursing the desire to take over the NCX. What is the disposition of NCX management to this planned? The CBN has never nursed the desire to take over the Exchange. Some years back, the former CBN Governor who is now the Emir of Kano, wanted to inject some funds into the Exchange to make it viable and valuable so that the government could divest to •Continued on page 34

THE NATION MONDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2015

THE CEO

‘We are repositioning Commodity Exchange’ •Continued from page 33

the private sector after a three-year period. That plan however, never came to fruition. The CBN currently has major shareholding in the Exchange. What is the status of the warehouse receipt launched last year? Since the launch of the pilot WRS last year July, five more financing banks have joined the scheme, a reputable collateral management and logistics company has also been in the fray to manage the warehouses and provide logistic support. We have carried out sensitisation at major crop producing areas of maize, sorghum, sesame, soya and cocoa. We are providing a trading platform. How many warehouses are being managed by the exchange and where are they located? The Exchange has accredited four warehouses located in Kano, Kaduna, Gombe and Akure. How far has the computerisation of the Exchange and its trading floor gone? The Exchange has been computerised from inception. However, with our new focus, our trading system has to be upgraded. Liquidity on the trading floor is ongoing. Remember that this is a pilot so we change what is not feasible in terms of trading and come up with acceptable strategies. Since the NCX is slated for privatisation and there is the desire to upgrade its trading system, would this upgrade boost tits value during privatisation or, according to observers, prepare it for cherrypickingh by future investors? The upgrade of the trading system would boost trading activities and add value to the Exchange when it is eventually privatised. The privatisation is following due process, so the question of cherrypicking does not arise. When will trading begin at NCX to enable it compete globally? How many commodities do you have presently to trade in? It is like we are being born again! What we are doing is to ensure that the enablers for a successful exchange are put in place. These enablers were totally absent when we began operations and without such enablers and incentives from government in place, no commodity exchange can make any headway. Luckily, the administration of President Jonathan is doing its best in that regard. We presently trade in five commodities. What are you talking about when you say you want to ensure that the enablers and incentives for a successful exchange are put in place? What are these enablers and incentives that you want to put in place? For a Commodity Exchange to be successful, the necessary physical, legal and institutional structures have to be put in place. For example, there must be adequate warehouse capacity, farmers cooperatives; as most African countries are chararcterised by small holder farmers, good ICT facilities and appropriate legal and regulatory infrastructure that will develop trust amongst stakeholders, a national system of grades and standards, a credible system of contract enforcement and very supportive government policies, including the regulation of commodity trading activities in Nigeria. Incentives such as excise duty rebate and export levy rebate could be used to encourage commodity market operators to patronise the Exchange. What are your plans for the Exchange going forward? I plan to within the first year

I plan to, within the first year, strengthen spot and warehouse receipt trading, so that within the next two years, we can evolve to futures trading. I also envision that with hard work, NCX will become the commodity trading hub for the West African sub-region

• Mrs Baba-Ari

‘For a Commodity Exchange to be successful, the necessary physical, legal and institutional structures have to be put in place. For example, there must be adequate warehouse capacity, farmers cooperatives; as most African countries are chararcterised by small holder farmers, good ICT facilities and appropriate legal and regulatory infrastructure that will develop trust amongst stakeholders’ strengthen spot and warehouse receipt trading, so that within the next two years, we can evolve to futures trading. I also envision that with hard work, NCX will become the commodity trading hub for the West African sub-region. Do you think we have Nigerians in the right numbers that are knowledgeable about futures trading? How do you hope to develop this generation of futures traders?

All the Commodity Brokers Association of Nigeria (CBAN) members that have undergone NCX training can trade futures. Remember too, that NCX handed over the comex training programme to CBAN three years ago and they are continuously training people. To evolve from warehouse receipt system to futures trading in the next two years, does that mean Nigerians should expect a fully

developed warehouse receipt system operational in the country before then? Before we evolve into futures trading, the spot market would have been developed as prices for commodity futures depend on the underlying prices on the spot market. A well emplaced warehouse receipt system will normally run side by side of a Commodity Exchange and help provide liquidity

on the Exchange. So yes, Nigerians can expect a vibrant Warehouse Receipt System within the next two years. What have been your experience and challenges been like so far? The experience has been that it is difficult to persuade stakeholders to do things differently. The farmers’ groups expect us to incentivise them with inputs and funds before they bring their commodities into our warehouse and this is because they are small holder farmers who have to aggregate. Warehouse owners expect us to lease from them and manage the warehouses ourselves. Middlemen think it is business as usual and see no reason to go through the processes of trading on the Exchange. We thus understand 70 per cent of our time sensitising stakeholders. However, once they understand the benefits of reduced transaction costs, market transparency, price discovery, standard storage facilities, grading facilities, which lead to improved quality of commodities and access to finance, they are usually eager to work with us. Are you faced with any gender issues either as CEO or with the people in the fields, especially female farmers? All the farmers’ groups for our tradable commodities that I have met are made up of men. The women are usually involved in the clearing and sorting of grains. I don’t know if that’s gender based. What other challenges are there that you wish to overcome in the discharge of your duties? A Commodity Exchange as an alternative trading platform is more complex to set up than a Stock Exchange, therefore it is imperative that the basic and required infrastructure as well as the right policy initiatives and government interventions aimed at strengthening the operations of the Exchange are put in place. Nigeria Stock Exchange is what it is today due to a number of intervention policies of government since the 1970’s. The singular reason why an exchange like the Ethiopian Commodity Exchange (ECX) is so successful and palpable amongst its farming populace is because of the strong support they have received along the way from its government. The South-African Futures Exchange (SAFEX) which is private sector driven has the support of all commercial banks; if you must use agricultural commodities as collateral to obtain funds from the bank, you must trade on SAFEX.

THE NATION MONDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2015

BUSINESS

MOTORING

Jaguar XF: comfort meets elegance

•Jaguar XF

For those in the market for a luxurious steed spiced up by strong sporting overtones, the Jaguar XF offers a wonderfully convincing alternative to the traditional contenders in its segment. Responsive, powerful, driver-focused, the XF utilises a range of technologies to improve and enhance the driving experience, writes TAJUDEEN ADEBANJO

HE Jaguar XF is certainly the model that redefines the Jaguar range. This fact is made obvious with the design direction and details of the new XE model which mirrors the XF DNA. The Jaguar XF’s interior is alive as it is outside. Settle into XF and the softly pulsing ‘start’ button greets you. Push and the engine engages, XF wakes. Even as you lift your finger, the precision-milled aluminium JaguarDrive Selector™ rises snugly into the palm of your hand. The engine gently throbs as the air vents, invisible until needed, roll open in unison and cool Phosphor blue halo lighting ignites to pick out the interior controls. Ergonomically optimised, XF’s cabin is a space both contemporary and luxurious, created to focus on driver and passenger needs and to excite the senses. Comfort and quality reign supreme with form hugging seats, real wood veneers, piano black finishers and aluminium surfaces. The seats are dedicated for driving pleasure, with form-hugging supple leathers complemented by a dashboard that is made of a crisp contemporary aluminium surfaces and classic real wood veneers. From the premium floor carpet and side trims to the polished stainless steel finishers, there is luxuriousness throughout XF. Thoughtful design encompasses every feature. The steering wheel position adjusts at the touch of a button, along with the seat and mirror. These settings can be memorised for different drivers. Minimalist sweeping lines give the cabin a contemporary elegance, with every aspect ergonomically tailored. A wide range of luxurious touches ensure a revitalising experience, helping you to arrive at your destination feeling as fresh as when you left. Numerous interior options await your selection. This varies from warm charcoal/red zone soft grain leather seats with a warm charcoal soft grain leather facia and a red zone contrast stitch accompanied by Knurled Aluminium with piano black veneers, to Barley soft grain leather seats with a soft grain truffle upper facia with knurled aluminium with gloss rich Oak veneers, as well as many possibilities in between. The XF boasts of some of the most finely crafted, highest quality materials in the world to create the perfect cabin. If the internal elements of the XF remain very

pleasing to the eye – its exterior exudes poise, confidence, pace and strength. A mid-life facelift to the current model, primarily focused on a reshaping of the front and rear lamps, wrought a much bigger change than might have been expected and endowed the already elegantly-crafted XF with an even more appealing look. Few cars manage to combine the dual role of luxury conveyance and sporty saloon with such aplomb. With its glowing Bi-function HID headlamps, outlined with crystal white daytime running LEDs, and its toned bodyshape, XF always looks ready for action. Its primed, nose-down, attitude, power vents and aerodynamic lines are more than an athletic pose. Each curve and contour has been refined to produce top aerodynamic performance, helping to improve fuel consumption and emissions. Powertrain The delivery capacity of the Jaguar XF cannot be overemphasised. Call it an iron fist in a velvet glove, but thanks to turbocharging and supercharging, there is no lag at all, the power is delivered with creamy smoothness. No-one can complain about reaching 100 km/ h in a scant 5.6 seconds, but most impressive of all is the XF’s consummate open road cruising ability. 120 km/h feels like a crawl as the engine’s smooth hum barely penetrates the cabin. Happily, Jaguar’s engineers haven’t killed all the rev sound though. Despite the presence of supercharging, Jaguar XF feels more responsive when the revs are kept up, a characteristic which the peak torque plateau actually telegraphs. Power is delivered to the rear wheels via ZF’s much-lauded 8-speed automatic box which offers Drive and Sport modes (courtesy of a rising rotary actuator) as well as manual activation via wheel-mounted paddles. This gearbox delivers mostly seamless changes, is devoid of any nasty slippage and is generally responsive and intuitive, even when the paddle shifters are not used. As expected, the Jaguar XF rides with aplomb and succeeds in isolating its occupants from the harshness of the outside world. Hidden in the depths of the striking wheels are huge brake discs that scrub off speed with disdain and provide just the right pedal weight-

ing to avoid jerkiness when coming to a complete stop in town driving conditions. As expected, the XF provides every safety option imaginable and even incorporates sensors in the front seats to ensure that safety belts and airbags deploy to maximum advantage. Innovative driving technologies Discover the XF’s stylish design, luxury craftsmanship, remarkable fuel economy and performance, thanks to a range of innovative technologies and Jaguar’s most efficient diesel engine ever. Responsive, powerful, driver-focussed, XF utilises a range of technologies to improve and enhance the driving experience. XF’s acclaimed handling is produced through combining exceptionally stiff body architecture, aerodynamic form and innovative suspension systems. XF’s Adaptive Dynamics system, available on a selection of engines, continuously monitors the suspension, varying the damping to suit the conditions, whether cornering, navigating potholes or accelerating on the motorway. The system calculates the appropriate suspension settings 500 times per second, adjusting the dampers to help keep the car as flat, stable and secure as possible. Choicy engines XF offers a choice of engines to suit the needs of every driver and driving style, whether improved fuel economy or power and performance are the priority. The range includes a selection of the latest petrol units, which include 2.0 litre i4 Turbocharged Petrol powerful enough to produce an impressive 240PS; 3.0 litre V6 Supercharged (340PS) and 3.0 litre V6 Supercharged (AWD) (340PS). These are all available in any of the Coscharis dealership in Lagos, Abuja or Port Harcourt. Safety XF’s safety systems are designed to be anticipatory, utilising an array of innovative technological features to be ready for almost anything and assist the driver in dealing with the unexpected. Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) maximises XF stability when it detects the wheels slipping. Electronic Brake Force Distribution measures load weight and distribute braking force to front and back wheels accord-

ingly. Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) on XF uses radar in the front bumper to monitor the vehicle in front, automatically adjusting XF’s speed to maintain a constant distance. Emergency Brake Assist (EBA) is designed to work with Adaptive Cruise Control to detect the severity of a stopping situation and applies optimum crisis braking forces as necessary. Adaptive Front Lighting enhances nighttime driving. Sensors react to the XF’s speed and steering input to deflect the headlamp beams casting light deeper and wider to help give added confidence at night. An optional Blind Spot Monitor uses radar sensors to remotely cover areas that cannot be seen either directly or in the mirror, and is designed to alert the driver to cars overtaking with an amber warning icon in the external mirrors. XF’s body structure uses 25 different grades of steel. Boron, an element 900 percent stronger than regular mild steel, is used to help create a vertical ring of safety around XF’s occupants. A total of eight airbags help to add further protection. A single seven-inch colour Touch-screen in the centre console provides multi-function control and displays the three primary functions; audio, climate control and satellite navigation. For a hands-free experience, the system also offers voice control of audio, navigation and telephone connectivity. Sleek, dynamic, daring, XF is a fusion of sports car styling with outstanding luxury saloon comfort. XF’s inspired engineering has won over 100 international awards. It has proved itself the game-changer in the world of automotive design. More than a machine, XF combines Jaguar’s renowned flair for style and luxury with a genius for technological innovation, providing an instinctive and rewarding driving experience that other sports saloons can only aspire to. Coscharis Motors, the sole franchise to sale and service Jaguar brands in Nigeria boasts of a wide network of showrooms and aftersales workshops across the country. According to Aregbeshola Cletus, the Jaguar Landrover Brand Manager for Coscharis, it all makes sense especially as the XF is the model that gave Jaguar a refined weapon with which to take the fight to competition.

THE NATION MONDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2015

MOTORING

Discovery Sport makes debut for Land Rover family

he all-new Discovery Sport is a new entry point into the Land Rover brand. It offers configurable 5+2 seating, versatile luggage compartment and equipped with Terrain Response for true Land Rover off-road capabilities For a quarter-century, the Land Rover Discovery has represented the spirit of epic adventure. It has taken the brave across the globe, as well as up, down, and along roads less travelled. As a result, some say that there is not a lot left to be discovered… but there is still room to expand the definition of discovery – which is why there is a new arrival in the Discovery family. Land Rover will bring the prestigious Discovery nameplate to a wider audience, with the introduction of the all-new Discovery Sport. Newcomers to the Land Rover brand will be able to get their hands

Stories by Tajudeen Adebanjo

on a vehicle that has all the qualities of the tried-and-tested original, but in a more compact package and at a more affordable price point. Land Rover’s plan is to have a Discovery family – just as there is a Range Rover family – of versatile, sophisticated and confidently capable all-terrain vehicles. For Discovery Sport, Land Rover makes one elegantly simple claim: it is the most versatile compact SUV, ever. Its premium interior is generous in terms of load space and seating flexibility. In a first for the brand, the Discovery Sport features a sliding second row of seats, allowing the balance of luggage to passenger space to be tailored for the occasion. That is not where its flexibility ends though: it is also available with 5+2 seating, offering even more configurability.

• Discovery Sport

The Land Rover DNA is also evident in its compact footprint and short overhangs, meaning no com-

Hyundai Sonata, Santa Fe win award

HE 2015 Hyundai Sonata was named the Best Midsize Car for the Money and the 2015 Hyundai Santa Fe was named the Best 3-Row SUV for the Money in 2015 by U.S. News and World Report. “Sonata and Santa Fe recognition by trusted site U.S. News and World Report means Hyundai has successfully been able to offer shoppers class-leading safety features, the latest technology, fuel economy and bold design, all at an outstanding value,” said Mike O’Brien, vice president of corporate and product planning, Hyundai Motor America.

O’Brien said Hyundai will continue to deliver a spectrum of award-winning products that deliver high value and driving experience. The Best Cars for the Money methodology combines quality and value data into a composite score. Within each of the 21 categories, the vehicle with the highest score is named the Best Car for the Money in that category. Quality is measured by the overall score achieved in the U.S. News car rankings at the time the awards are published. Value is measured by fiveyear total cost of ownership and the average price paid for the vehicle at

the time the awards are published. The all-new seventh-generation 2015 Sonata offers a more refined look through a new Fluidic Sculpture 2.0 design language, stiffer body structure, better ride quality, reduced noise, vibration and harshness and advanced safety and convenience features. Sonata truly democratises the premium design and convenient technology of the Genesis sedan for the mid-size class. The 2015 Santa Fe features an upgraded interior and sportier exterior, designed to provide optimal performance and comfort for families.

Ford partners US firm

ORD Motor Company has announced a new collaboration to develop manufacturing innovations in automotivegrade carbon fibre for use in future products. Ford and DowAksa are accelerating joint research to develop high-volume manufacturing techniques - aiming to make vehicles lighter for greater fuel efficiency, performance and capability. The companies will be part of the newly formed Institute for Advanced Composites Manufacturing Innovation, created by the United States government. The institute is part of the larger National Network for Manufacturing Innovation supported by the U.S. Department of Energy. “Our collaboration with DowAksa and participation in

this organisation significantly boosts what we are able to achieve,” Ken Washington, Ford vice president, Research and Advanced Engineering said. “We have a true alliance of highly talented people working to take automotive materials to the next level,” he noted. The mission of the institute and the goal of Ford’s collaboration with DowAksa - a 50/50 joint venture between The Dow Chemical Company and AksaAkrilikKimyaSanayii A.S. is to overcome the high cost and limited availability of carbon fibre, while developing a viable, high-volume manufacturing process. “This opportunity builds upon Ford’s current joint development agreement with Dow Chemical

and accelerates our timeline to introduce carbon fibre composites into high-volume applications,” Jim deVries, Ford global manager, Materials and Manufacturing Research stated. “This collaboration,” he stated, “helps us accelerate our efforts to create lighter automotive-grade composite materials that benefit customers by enabling improved fuel economy without sacrificing strength.” Ford and Dow Chemical began working together in 2012 to develop low-cost, high-volume carbon fibre composites. Also in 2012, the European Ford Research and Innovation Centre in Aachen, Germany, investigated new production processes to reduce cycle times for carbon fibre components through the Hightech.NRW re-

promise on agility and responsiveness. It’s commanding driving position also provides a panoramic

view both near and far, giving drivers the confidence to go above and beyond.

Kia SPORTSPACE concept to be unveiled at Geneva

IA Motors Europe will unveil an innovative new concept, the Kia SPORTSPACE, at the 85th Salon International de l’Automobile in Geneva on March 3. Created for long distance driving, the SPORTSPACE has been designed for fast and efficient travel with maximum comfort and minimal stress, in the best

search project. Ford last month revealed the all-new Ford GT supercar that makes extensive use of lightweight materials, including carbon fibre and aluminium - enabling outstanding acceleration and handling with improved efficiency. With the broad application of structural carbon fibre elements, the GT will exhibit one of the best power-to-weight ratios of any production car. “Our goal is to develop a material that can greatly reduce vehicle weight in support of improved fuel economy for our customers,” said Patrick Blanchard, Ford supervisor, Composites Group. “The flexibility of the technology allows us to develop materials for all vehicle subsystems across the product line - resulting in a weight savings of more than 50 per cent compared to steel,” Blanchard said.

grand touring tradition of the weekend getaway. Designed at Kia’s Frankfurt design studio, under the direction of Gregory Guillaume, Chief Designer Europe, the SPORTSPACE features a unique and captivating body shape. The car is born out of a commitment to provide stylish and exciting transportation for four which is also spacious and functional, without sacrificing the performance, sustainability and economy that Kia is known for. Recognisably, a Kia due to its signature ‘tiger nose’ grille, finely judged proportions and simple, clean surfaces, SPORTSPACE has a bold, dynamic shape with real road presence. At the same time, it offers a high level of interior comfort and substantial practical load space. “We set out to design a car that is a totally new breed of grand tourer – one for active people who need reasonable cargo space on the weekend, but don’t want to compromise moving around in style, comfort and with an element of sportiness,” explains Gregory Guillaume, Chief Designer Europe.

How FRSC,VIO, MVAA and driving schools increase the rate of accidents • Continued from last week

TEP 1 – That every experienced driver that wants to renew the old driver licence or obtain a new one afresh should go to the driving school as a fresher for thorough assessment in both theory and practical with more focus on the knowledge of the information in the Highway Code (Traffic Signs, Road Markings, Signals and Defensive Driving rules among others) for need assessment. STEP 2 – That the driving schools should register the candidates and upload their information into the data base of the Federal Road Safety Commission as it obtains for basic learners. STEP 3 – That step 2 should be complemented with the submis-

sion of the data and reports of the candidates to the FRSC Unit Commands responsible for the supervision or monitoring of the driving schools in their domains in case there is a challenge in uploading the information of the registered candidates through the website of FRSC. STEP 4 – Learner Permits will be issued to the candidates (three months duration as it currently obtains). STEP 5 – The candidates will be exposed to the relevant theory and practical training sessions depending on the result of the need assessment carried out by the driving schools in stage 1. The Assessment result will also determine the duration and charges by the driving schools. STEP 6 – After the refresher training sessions, the candidates should be allowed to drive for three months

till the expiration of the Learner’s permits, after which they can then commence the processing of their Driver Licence (as it obtains for learners) if he or she did not commits traffic offences and at – fault accidents. Appropriate theory and practical tests must be administered and passed by the candidates. STEP 7 – Any candidate whose registration information is not in the Database of FRSC through website uploading and/or FRSC unit commands must be denied driver licence (at the Licence production stage). There should be adequate print and electronic media public enlightenment programmes by the stakeholders to inform Nigerians that their driver licence will not be produced if they don’t follow all the steps from registration stage to the end (and a

prove that they obtain the necessary training in Driving Schools) CAUTION If the above steps are not fully adopted and enforced, the secret production of fake driver licence will continue to thrive for presentation to compromising driving schools that will be issuing such candidates with certificates and Learner’s permits to go for direct processing of driver licence. b. Mechanics, unregistered driving schools and other Individuals who are not driving school owners will continue to train candidates who will dubiously be approaching driving schools for their certificates, claiming that they already know how to drive. But with the above steps fully taken, they would prefer to patronise the certified driving schools rather than going through the process twice

Jide Owatunmise Registrar / Chief Executive, Professional Driving and Safety Academy

and at double costs. This will also be an opportunity to properly groom the drivers with the requisite knowledge and skills for safe driving. • To be continued next week

THE NATION MONDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2015

NATION SPORT

Mayweather: Pacquiao needs the money

B A / W B C welterweight and j u n i o r middleweight champion Floyd Mayweather Jr. believes Manny Pacquiao, the WBO champion at 147pounds, had no choice but to accept a fight with him for May 2 at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. Mayweather says pacquiao's "back was

against the wall" and the Filipino star is in need of money. The undefeated Pound-for-Pound king points to Pacquiao's tax troubles in the United States and the Philippines and he also take a few jabs at Pacquiao's inability to break 400,000 pay-perview purchases for his contest in last fall against Chris Algieri.

If Pacquiao does have money issue, he won't have them for too much longer. The May 2 showdown is likely to break every single financial fight record including the pay-perview record of 2.4 million, which Mayweather set with Oscar De La Hoya in 2007.. "And like I said before, I'm blessed and you can never take nothing for granted. The only thing I did was constantly work, constantly believe, constantly pray, and anything is possible. And like I said before, I can retire today and I'm okay. I was very, very smart investing my money in a lot of real estate, doing business with my big tycoon buddies. The great thing about my career is I did it my way," Mayweather told Fighthype.com. "A lot of guys are forced to do things that they don't want to do. I honestly believe that, at this particular time, even if Pacquiao didn't want to fight, he has no choice because his back is against the wall. The reason why his back is against the wall is because he needs the money. I don't. Every property that I have, from Miami to LA to Las Vegas, is paid for."

MONDAY FEBRUARY 23, 2015

POLITICS THE NATION

E-mail:- politics@thenationonlineng.net

DELTA POLITICS

Can PDP have easy ride in Delta? Delta State will be a battle ground for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC) in next month’s general elections. The majority ethnic group, Urhobo, has an axe to grind with the ruling party over its alleged marginalisation in the distribution of major elective offices. Thus, its leading lights are working assiduously to swing the votes in the APC’s d irection. Who wins the governorship poll between Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, the PDP candidate, and Chief O’tega Emerhor, the standard bearer of the APC? Group Political Editor EMMANUEL OLADESU writes on the issues that will shape the contest in the oil-rich state.

NLIKE in previous elections, the general elections may be tough in Delta State. Although President Goodluck Jonathan is from the Niger Delta, certain factors may not make the presidential election a walk over for him. In the multi-ethnic state, there is no political accord. The bone of contention is the alleged sidelining of the majority tribe, Urhobo, in the distribution of major elective offices. The ethnic group has complained bitterly that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has reneged on its informal agreement to pick its governorship candidate from the tribe. Also, the deputy governorship has also eluded the ethnic group, fueling suspicion that certain forces were bent on relegating it to the background, despite its numerical strength. The umbrella organisation, Urhobo Progressives Union (UPU) has been brainstorming on how to get a fair deal from the political class. Having lost the two prime slots, its leading lights have opened discussions with the All Progressives Congress (APC), which has zoned its governorship ticket to the tribe. The APC candidate, Chief O’tega Emerhor, is campaigning aggressively in Delta, like his PDP counterpart, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa. Since 1999, PDP has been winning governorship polls convincingly in Delta. Between 1999 and 2007, Governor James Ibori held sway in the Government House. The threat by Chief Great Ogboru to dethrone him failed, owing to the formidable party machinery. After eight years in office, Ibori was succeeded by Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan, whose second term expires in May. Ahead of the polls, PDP is basking on old glory. Prominent Deltas have sympathy for the ruling party. These political juggernauts are committed to the President’s re-election bid. Dr. Jonathan is an Ijaw. Therefore, his kinsmen, who are a potent force in the state, are mobilising for his second term. Apart from the apex Ijaw leader, Senator Edwin Clark, there are new centres of influence backing the President’s aspiration. A renowned government contractor, Government Ekpemupolo (Tompolo), is rooting for the President. He is an acclaimed freedom fighter. His influence lies in the numerical strength of militants in the creeks who have accepted his authority. Tompolo is rich. He has become a powerful mobiliser and unofficial PDP leader, to the consternation of the governor, who now appears to be on the fringe. Exuding confidence, the PDP leaders have boasted that Delta is a nogo area for the APC. However, there are some undercurrents that could put a lie on the PDP’s bravado. Indeed, the time-tested confidence appears to be collapsing. There is a sudden shift in party leadership, with Tompolo migrating from a militant to a power broker in Delta PDP. The ex-agitator now plays a domineering influence in the chapter more than governor. According to sources, Tompolo now decides who gets what, how and when in Delta PDP. When his candidates became the governorship candidates and running mate, the Ijaw mega star rose to his zenith in the party hierar-

•Emerhor and his supporters at a road show in Asaba, Delta State capital

•Governor Uduaghan, Senator Okowa and wife, Edith, at a rally in Asaba, the state capital

chy. Since then, Uduaghan appeared to have taken the back seat. The turn of events is worrisome to the governor’s camp. Uduaghan has been an active supporter of the President since he assumed the reins, although the President’s camp has not forgotten the frosty relationship between Dr. Jonathan and Ibori, Uduaghan’s predecessor. When the governor took his preferred gover-

norship candidate, Felix Obuh, to the Presidency, no eyebrow was raised initially. Later, his candidature was rejected, when, according to sources, Tompolo raised an objection. Those who had the ears of the President said Obuh’s ambition underscored another ‘Ibori agenda.’ Up came Francis Edebiri, a loyalist of Uduaghan and Ibori, who hails from Urhobo, the

majority ethnic group, which accounts for 50 per cent population of Delta State. Anti-Ibori forces rose up again, saying that Edebiri may not be loyal to the President. Edebrie is an Urhobo like Ibori. He was the Principal Secretary to the late President Umaru Yar’Adua. In 2007, Ibori was one of the sponsors of the deceased President. Therefore,

‘The ethnic group has complained bitterly that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has reneged on its informal agreement to pick its governorship candidate from the tribe. Also, the deputy governorship has also eluded the ethnic group, fueling suspicion that certain forces were bent on relegating it to the background, despite its numerical strength’

Jonathan’s men said that Ibori was bouncing back. Suddenly, the table turned against Uduaghan and Edebiri. It was double tragedy for the governor. He lost his bid to anoint a successor like his many of his colleagues in other states. Also, his senatorial ambition crumbled. In post2015, the governor will be scrambling for ministerial slot, if the PDP survives the elections. Gazing at the post-election period, Jonathan forces queued behind Senator James Manager, who is being positioned for the position of the Senate Leader. A party source said that the President threw his weight behind Okowa, who defeated other aspirants at the primaries. Many Itsekiri rooting for the senatorial ambition of the governor were downcast. The hope of Urhobo, who have been agitating for power shift to the North Central and zoning to Urhobo, was dashed. These unresolved conflicts have implications for the elections. Although primaries are a party affair, general elections are a different ball game. The outcome of the primaries have triggered up ethnic tensions, which Uduaghan has tried to douse. The Central District is dominated by Urhobo, which has lost the governorship and running mate. While Okowa is from the minority Igbo, his running mate, Kingsley Otuaru, is Ijaw. If there a bond of unity and the ethnic group decides to vent its anger, it could be disastrous for the PDP. The North consists of Ikas (Agbor), Asaba, and Ndokwa/Kwale. The Igbos in this district are in the minority. Okowa is from this area. In the South are Isoko, Itsekiri, Ijaw and Urhobo from Effrum. To the Uhrobos, this is a decisive year. The two Urhobo in the raceEmerhor and Ogboru of the Labour Party (LP)-are bitter. To them, the much taunted Southern solidarity is a farce, if the only Ijaw is the only ethnic group savouring the dividends of democracy in Delta. When the UPU met to discuss the future of the tribe, it was resolved that the race should give a bloc vote to the son of the soil, based on his campaign promises to the state, although there were also dissenting voices in the association on the vexed issue. The understanding is that Urhobo will vote for any party that has zoned the governorship to the tribe. Urhobo is not the only aggrieved group in the state. Itsekiri also has its grouse. The ethnic group has alleged that Ijaw is clannish when Uduaghan, an Itsekiri, was compelled to step down for Manager. Besides, Itsekiri leaders have pointed out that the move to relocate the EPZ project from the area to Ijaw area was in bad faith. The project was about to be inaugurated before it was put on hold. Itsekiri believed that the decision was taken to spite the race. Also, Isoko is angry. Its leaders have complained that the ethnic group has nothing to show for voting massively for President Jonathan in 2011. The APC running mate, Abanum Vander-Puye, is from Isoko. Party sources said no attempts have been made to pacify the aggrieved tribes, who believe that they now play second fiddle to Ijaw.

THE NATION MONDAY FEBRUARY 23, 2015

implication of Dasuki’s statement is ‘ The that it was the Presidency and the military that were behind the insurgency and the attendant killings of innocent people in Borno, Yobe and Adamawa states

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... 99 D AYS TO GO ...99 DA

The postponement of the general elections from February 14 and 28 to March 28 and April 11 has thrown up some perinent questions about the role of the military in the electoral process. In this article, Professor of Philosophy and Director-General, Awolowo Centre for Philosophy, Ideology and Good Governance, Osogbo, Osun State, Moses Akinola Makinde (FNAL), argues that the military is acting the script handed to it by the Presidency and the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Agenda behind annulment of Feb. 14 election date A

FEW days before the annulment of the February 14 date for the presidential election by President Goodluck Jonathan and the military Service Chiefs, the army, navy and airforce had asserted categorically that they were more than prepared for the election. To the delight of most Nigerians, they even told the nation about the preparations made for the exercise. But, the Service Chiefs who had shown readiness for the election two weeks earlier said the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) must shift the date because the President wanted it that way. For about five years, the security operatives, especially the military, have been helpless in “crushing” the Boko Haram insurgency in the Northeast. Now, just as the election was about two weeks away, the National Security Adviser Col. Sambo Dasuki said “we will crush them in six weeks”. Now, the questions: 1. How come the same Service Chiefs who had failed to provide security for the people of Borno, Yobe, Adamawa states for five years now decided to do their job only for the sake of postponement of February 14 election? The implication of Dasuki’s statement is that it was the Presidency and the military that were behind the insurgency and the attendant killings of innocent people in Borno, Yobe and Adamawa states in the Northeast, a stronghold of the All Progressives Congress (APC), all these years! This means that only those who are behind the problem can solve the problem. We now know why the military and security operatives have refused to stop the insurgency in the region, even after more than N3 billion had been wasted on the matter. It is either to prevent the election or find excuses to postpone it as a result of their unreadiness and unwillingness to perform their constitutional duty of creating a conducive atmosphere for a peaceful elec-

‘By this postponement, they have now exposed their hidden agenda by telling us that what they had willingly failed to do in three years they can now willingly do in six weeks!’ tion in the APC’s stronghold. By this postponement, they have now exposed their hidden agenda by telling us that what they had willingly failed to do in three years they can now willingly do in six weeks! 2. The postponement of the elections till March 28 and April 11 was to give the PDP time to prosecute their case against the APC presidential candidate Gen. Muhammadu Buhari’s certificate saga, a case which even the PDP lawyers said could not be won by any stretch of the imagination. As for the claim of perjury being prepared over Buhari’s certificate, Gen. Alani Akinrinde had made the point that the military did not return certificate to their owners and, in most cases, it appeared that these certificates were lost or misplaced by the military. After all, the Vice President claimed that his certificate was lost in an inferno and has not provided any evidence for this with a police report. 3. Perhaps, the most important and dangerous agendum of Jonathan and the PDP is their plan to “sack” Prof. Attahiru Jega, the hardworking and totally uncommitted cerebral Chairman of INEC, before the election on March 28. This was another reason behind postponing the election for six weeks; so that Jega would be asked to proceed on terminal leave by the middle of March 2015, until the end of his tenure on June 30, 2015. In this way, he would not be allowed to complete the elections he had started.

Jega’s sin was that he, a reputable intellectual that he is, could not afford to soil his hands and reputation by heeding Jonathan’s and the PDP’s instruction to rig election for them at all costs. They now want to appoint a stooge to rig the election in their favour. Of course, Nigerians and the whole world know that Jonathan cannot stop Prof. Jega from completing the assignment he had started about five years ago, which is to conduct the presidential and other elections in 2015. To think that stopping Jega is possible is to demonstrate a high degree of illusion and folly; not even when no new appointment could be made without the consent and approval of the National Assembly. To such hidden agendum, Nigeria and indeed the international community say “no way” to Jonathan. He should stop behaving as if he owns Nigeria, and whatever he wants he gets by force, just as he forced Jega to postpone the election. Prof Jega enjoys the confidence of Nigerians and the international community, while members of his constituency, the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), stand behind him as a tested man of integrity and honour, and will stand behind him to the end. 4. The military’s unholy and dangerous alliance with the Presidency might just be another hidden agendum. Could it be there was a secret pact between the military and the President to precipitate a crisis

before or after the election for the army to take over from Jonathan in order to allow him a soft landing instead of facing a Buhari administration? Or could it be a preparation for interim government or tenure elongation, also by the aid of military, that would allow Jonathan to spend another two years to make up for the constitutional limit of 8 years as president, since he cannot be president for 10 years? Under the Nigerian constitution? That is probably why the Service Chiefs said the election was postponed for six weeks “in the first instance”. The second instance may be to create a constitutional crisis that would lead to an army take over in favour of Jonathan. For Jonathan, it is as the Yoruba would say, “kaka ki eku ma je ere, a fi se iwadanu” (instead of the rat not being allowed to eat the peas, it would scatter the peas, so that nobody would be in a position to eat the peas). But, my fear is that this time around, the army cannot succeed, as the result of any army take-over for Jonathan or for themselves would be greater than the Egypt’s or Algeria’s Arab Springs where the whole country stood up for their rights, and eventually the army and the police had no choice but to be on the side of the people. The Nigerian case would be worse because the military had already been perceived to be supporting Jonathan against the people. Be all this as it may, both Jonathan and the military have boxed themselves into a corner. Their dilemma is a follows: (1) crush the insurgency in the Northeast in six weeks and admit that the President and the military have been behind and supporting the escalation of the activities of the insurgents for more than five years. (2) Fail to crush the insurgents in the Northeast in six weeks and admit that you want to use the failure as a reason for further postponement in order to precipitate a crisis that would lead to a military take-

• Prof. Makinde

over, just to prevent Buhari from ruling the country, and provide a soft landing for Mr. President and his galaxy of sinners against the people of Nigeria. In either case, Jonathan and the military are in great trouble and have questions to answer before Nigerians and the international community. Already, the postponement has already backfired, as more and more Nigerians are now angry and only waiting to nail the coffins of Jonathan and PDP with protest votes at the March 28 and April 11 election. The bottom line and the most important of course, is that Professor Jega must complete his assignment of conducting the elections by which he is to be judged for the sake of posterity. You cannot prepare so hard for an examination only to be cruelly prevented from taking the examination for which you have prepared so hard and for so long. The examination must be taken and results of your efforts made known to you and the public. Having told the US and the UN that the election would be free and fair, Jonathan must not confound Nigerians and the international community by a super rigging device i.e. changing the umpire in the last minute in order to give room for rigging of the 2015 election.

PVC collection: INEC allays fears of non-indigenes

HE Lagos State Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Mr. Akin Orebiyi, has refuted the claim that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is disenfranchising non-indigenes, by denying them their Permanent Voters Cards (PVCs). He said there are still 1.8 million cards waiting for people to collect, adding that those who have not collected theirs should come forward to do so. Speaking at a press conference in Lagos to update the public on developments concerning its preparations towards the forthcoming general elections, Orebiyi said the Commission in Lagos and elsewhere in the country are working round the clock to ensure that all registered voters collect their cards. He said: “As we speak, out of 5.9 million cards for Lagos State, we have distributed 3.6 million cards, which amounts to 62.7 per cent as at the end of last week. But, out of the 5.9 million cards, we are still waiting for about 400,000 cards. We are expecting cards in practically all the 20 local governments of the state.” The REC said people are construing the delay in arrival of the cards to mean that the Commission is denying some particular sections of the

By Raymond Mordi, Deputy Political Editor

state their right to vote. He said: “It is not the intention of INEC to deny any ethnic group or any single community the collection of their cards. When we carried out the registration exercises, both in 2011 and 2014, people were not registered on the basis of which part of the country they came from. Therefore, there is no way we could have said these are the particular cards for a particular community. “Interestingly, the group that came here to lodge their complaints, when we looked at their letter and the names of those who were yet to collect their cards in their community, specifically from Ajeromi/Ifelodun, the names cut across all the ethnic groups. So, there is no intention on the part of INEC or any of its officials, within Lagos State or any part of Nigeria, to deny any community, any group the collection of their cards.” Orebiyi said Lagosians should not wait until the deadline on Sunday March 8 to collect the PVCs. He said from this week, collection of PVCs in the state would be extended to the polling units on Fridays and Satur-

•Orebiyi

days, to bring it nearer to the people. For now, PVC distribution is taking place at INEC offices in the 20 local governments. He said when he took charge as the REC in January the percentage of PVC distribution was around 38 per cent, “but as at the end of last week, it was 62.7 per cent.” Orebiyi, who also used the opportunity to demonstrate how the Smart Card Readers that would be deployed on election day works, said his office has received about 12,000

card readers and that the commission’s staffs are busy, trying to configure them in readiness for the election. According the REC, each Smart Card Reader is configured to work in a particular polling unit. In other words, it cannot work in any other polling unit other than the one it is configured for. “The implication of this is that it will only identify or authenticate PVCs for that particular polling unit,” he said. He said there are two steps in the operation of the Smart Card Readers that would be followed when it is deployed for the election. His words: “One is authentication; this is to ascertain that the card belongs to INEC. If anybody brings another PVC that is not issued by INEC, it will not authenticate it or recognize it as INEC’s card. So, the issue of fake cards or clowned PVCs will not arise, because the Smart Card Reader will not authenticate it. “The next step, after the authentication, is the verification stage, where the bearer of the card would be asked to put his thumb on a particular point on the Smart Card Reader, to verify whether he or she is the rightful owner of the card. The implication of this is that no person can use

another person’s card. This means that no person can be accredited and possibly vote in more than one place. These are some of the measures we’ve put in place to ensure a more transparent process this time around.” He said the Smart Card Reader is very reliable, because it has been tested in other countries, including Ghana and Kenya, where it worked effectively well. “The battery life of the Smart Card Readers is 12 hours. During the general election, it is going to be in use within the hours of 8am and 1pm,” the REC added. Orebiyi said the Smart Card Readers would be charged well in advance and overnight before the election day. He said provision would be made for a generator per collation centre, to ensure that the issue of the Card Readers failing because there is light to charge them would be ruled out. “But, in the case of failure, there is a contingency arrangement for a back-up,” he added. He said the electoral process this year would be dramatically different from what obtained in the past, as every vote would count because Nigeria has come to stage where it would no longer be business as usual.

THE NATION MONDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2015

MAY 29 ...95 DAYS TO GO

PDP: Wobbling on to general elections Continued from Friday

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Lagos There is no end in sight to the personality crisis between the party leader, Chief Olabode George, a retired Naval Commodore and Senator Musiliu Obanikoro, the former Minister of State for Defence. Obanikoro has not forgiven George and former Works Minister, Senator Adeseye Ogunlewe, for his defeat by Mr. Jimi Agbaje at the primaries. It was a rancorous contest. The number of votes cast was more than the number of accredited delegates. The former minister cried foul, saying that it was daylight robbery. He threatened to go to court to register his displeasure. But, he was prevailed upon to jettison litigation. The shadow poll created division in the fold. After the primaries, Obanikoro started to mobilise for the President’s re-election under an independent campaign group. Agbaje has dissipated more energy on reconciling the two warring gladiators.

•Jang

•Elechi

•Suswan

•Fayose

Ekiti

Shortly after the inauguration of the PDP governor, Ayodele Fayose, crisis broke out between the governor and some party leaders over the preparations for parliamentary primaries. Senator Ayo Arise complained that Fayose was trying to impose candidates. Eventually, the governor had his way. The aggrieved PDP chieftains still have grudges against the governor. Feelers from Ekiti suggest that the state is indifferent to the presidential elections. A source said: “Support for Fayose, which is now in doubt, is not the same thing as support for the PDP. When Buhari came to Ado, people trooped out. What has Jonathan done for Ekiti? The people are asking. The solace may be the promise by Buhari of the APC to fight the infrastructure battle in the state.”

Benue Benue is another theatre of battle in March and April. Since quarrel broke out between Governor Gabriel Suswan and Senator Barnabas Gemade, the party has not known peace in Benue North Zone. The defection of Gemade, a former PDP National Chairman, to the APC is a blow to the chapter. The governor and the party elder have fanatical loyalists. In Benue, the APC now has two senators. Both parties are mobilising for the general elections. To observers, the PDP can only sleep with two eyes closed.

Ebonyi There is tension in Ebonyi PDP. Since Governor Martin Elechi lost out in his bid to anoint a successor at the primaries, the party has been polarised. His supporters have defected to the Labour Party (LP), although the governor still claims to be the state PDP leader. Two groups - Abuja forces and Elechi camp - are locked in a battle of supremacy. Now, the House of Assembly is being instigated by the Abuja forces, led by Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) Senator Ayim Pius Ayim, to impeach the governor. The PDP leaders accused Elechi of anti-party activities. Put succinctly, they said he has encouraged his supporters to defect from the PDP to the LP. During the governorship primaries, Elechi and his men backed the former Minister of Health, Prof Onyebuchi Chukwu. But, Ayim’s men supported Elechi’s deputy, Dave Umahi, an engineer. Umahi won. Since then, Elechi has been campaigning vigorously for President Jonathan’s re-election without extending similar support to other PDP candidates. Already, the anti-Elechi forces have secured the approval of the Na-

tional PDP Caucus to sanction the governor for the decimation of the Ebonyi chapter. Ayim, said a party source, had complained to President Jonathan that the governor will be an obstacle to PDP’s victory at the general elections. The Abuja politicians have been having sleepless nights, following the exodus of PDP members to the LP. To them, the move may jeopardise the party’s chance at the polls. On January 16, the governor was booed and jeered at the Abakaliki Township Stadium during the presidential campaign, to the embarrassment of the President and other dignitaries. The disgrace was orchestrated to give the impression that the governor is not popular in the state. The source said: “PDP leaders, who are against Governor Elechi, are pushing for his impeachment because they see it as the ultimate guarantor of the PDP victory in the general elections. The Abuja-based antiElechi forces are working on the members of the House of Assembly to ensure the non-passage of the 2015 Appropriation Bill. Other actions against the governor are in the pipeline. They want to cut the governor’s influence, especially the incumbency power.” The governor was not present at the Abuja Caucus meeting where Ayim pressed for sanctions against him. However, mixed reactions trailed the SGF’s proposals. The impeachment slot was opposed by the President, who noted that the time was not auspicious. A source said that, despite the President’s objection, Ayim has intensified his lobby to remove Elechi in the belief that, by the time the plan is executed close to the elections, the President would be too engrossed in his re-election battle. The source added: “The SGF’s confidence may have been buoyed by

what happened on 27th November last year during which the President took a decision with some high-ranking officials of the government and the party to postpone primary elections in Ebonyi, Taraba, Adamawa and Ondo states, pending the resolution of the problems in those states. Some vested interests flouted the order and conducted the primaries in Ebonyi State and the outcome was accepted and the President did nothing. Ayim is apprehensive that it would be difficult for PDP to win the election in Ebonyi while Elechi remains the Governor.” Party sources said the declaration of the seats of four members of the Assembly loyal to Elechi vacant on the same day the caucus meeting was holding in Abuja was to set the stage for the impeachment. Another chieftain, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, said: “The whole essence of the action is to whittle the number of pro- Elechi and to get the constitutionally stipulated number of anti-Elechi members to successfully initiate impeachment proceedings” Last week, the Speaker, Mr. Chukwuma Nwazunku, declared the seats of the four members vacant, following their defection to the LP. Nwazunku said in a statement that he has the constitutional right to declare their seats vacant. The affectded legislators are: Eni Uduma Chima, (Afikpo Southwest); Helen Nwaobashi (Abakaliki South); Sam Nwali (Ikwo North) and Mabel Aleke (Ohaukwu South). However, many stakeholders have risen in defence of the governor They believe he was being blackmailed and being witch-hunted by the SGF. A group, the Ebonyi Patriotic Coalition, (EPC), alleged that Ayim was instigating the Economic and Financial crimes Commission (EFCC) against Ebonyi State government.

We are out to reform the PDP in the state. PDP will be dead when Jang leaves office because the PDP exists today in his pocket. PDP, as it is today, will go with him. The PDP will not win the election in Plateau State. Without a PDP governor, the party will be gone and that’s when we will come in. We will give a new life to the PDP

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At a press conference in Abuja last week, Ebonyi government officials complained about the freezing of the accounts of Ebonyi State Local Government by the anti-graft body on the grounds its funds are used to fund the LP. The Attorney-General and Commissioner of Justice, Dr. Ben Igwenyi, and the Commissioner for Commerce, Dr. Ifeanyi Ikeh, said: “There is a spate of frivolous petitions against state government officials in charge of finance. In the last three weeks, the Accountant-General, Mr. Edwin Igbele; the Commissioner for Finance, Timothy Odaah and the Commissioner for Local Governments and Chieftaincy Affairs, Mr. Celestine Nwali; have been guests to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). “The allegations against them being that some local government funds which were legitimately spent in 2012 and 2013 were unlawfully spent. These are all lies because the documents are there to speak for themselves. Even without hearing from the above three officers, the Joint Account of the 13 Local Governments was frozen by EFCC contrary to section 34(1) of EFCC Act 2004. The move to remove Elechi has polarised the state along ethnic lines. Those from Abakaliki bloc where Elechi hails from and, who are in the majority, are spoiling for war against party chieftains from a section of Afikpo zone, the birthplace of Umahi. Many are of the view that the governor deserves respect because of his age and popularity among the people.

Plateau: Plateau PDP is in turmoil. As the PDP presidential campaigns rolled into Jos, the state capital, on January 26, many aggrieved members announced the birth of a parallel State

Executive Committee. Since the chapter broke into two factions, ahead of the polls, reconciliation has proved abortive. The faction, known as the Reformed PDP, is now rooting for opposition candidates. Members of the faction are aggrieved PDP chieftains protesting the alleged high-handedness of Governor Jonah Jang. Prominent among them are governorship aspirants protesting the outcome of the primaries. Their spokesman is former Governor Fidelis Tapgun, who complained against injustice in the party. Tapgun is from Shendam Local Government Area. Another group, the Equity and Justice Forum, led by Prof. Dakum Shown and Raymond Dabo, is protesting the emergence of Senator Gyang Pwajok as the governorship candidate. Pwajok is a Berom from Plateau North, where Jang hails from. The forum is pushing for power shift to Plateau South. Governorship aspirants in the Reformed PDP include: Dr Haruna Dabin (Kanke), John Alkali (Shendam), Senator Victor Lar (Langtang North), Apostle Chris Bature (Langtang North), Jimmy Cheto (Langtang South), Mr Goddy Miri (Langtang North). Other members of the group are Danjuma Maina (Mangu), James Vwi (Riyom), Ambassador Ibrahim Kasai (Jos East), Lekyes Kwarkas (Pankshin), Evangelist Sam Mbok (Pankshin), Daniel Daduwash (Mangu) and Dalyop Bok (Jos South). The former PDP Chairman, Dabin, has an axe to grind with Jang. He led the party to victory in 2011. But, he later fell out of favour with the governor when he unfolded his governorship ambition. In June last year, he was shoved aside, following a vote of no confidence passed on him by the State Working Committee. After he was suspended from office, the only option for him was to resign in September. Tapgun and Cheto believed that they were dumped by Jang, following his victory at the poll in 2007. A source said that Tapgun has not been happy that Jang decided to surround himself with people from the academic and his school mates, who did not play any significant role in his emergence as governor. Cheto is more bitter. Predicting failure for the PDP at the poll, he said: “We are out to reform the PDP in the state. PDP will be dead when Jang leaves office because the PDP exists today in his pocket. PDP, as it is today, will go with him. The PDP will not win the election in Plateau State. Without a PDP governor, the party will be gone and that’s when we will come in. We will give a new life to the PDP.” He added: ”We will vote it out. We shall all campaign against Pwajok in our various villages.” It is not an empty threat. Last month, Tapgun donated his Jos campaign office to the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate, Simon Lalong, a lawyer. Cheto has insisted that the primary election that produced Pwajok at the Rwang Pam Township Stadium, Jos was a ruse. He said: “They will know my political strength by the time the February 28 governorship election is over.” Shown also predicted tragedy for the party, saying that it has violated the agreement on zoning. He said, despite the complaint to the National Chairman, Alhaji Adamu Muazu, the national secretariat has kept a sealed lip. He said: “The PDP constitution supports zoning. Since the incumbent governor is from the North, our stand is that his successor should come from another zone, which is the South. The party must choose between backing Jang and his godson, Pwajok, and losing Plateau during the next election.”

THE NATION MONDAY FEBRUARY 23, 2015

NEWS Five die, 48 injured in Potiskum attack From Duku Joel, Damaturu

FEMALE suicide bomber has attacked Potiskum, targeting a GSM market and killing four people, including herself, a witness has said. A hospital source told our correspondent on the phone that three bodies, including that of the suicide bomber, were brought to the hospital. The source said 48 injured victims were also brought to the hospital and two later died. “The bomber killed two people and herself, making three. Forty-eight injured people were brought to the hospital and two later died, making five dead people,” he said. Ibrahim Bulama, who has a shop inside the market, said the young girl walked past him and a few minutes later he heard a loud sound. He added: “I was sitting in front of my shop and I heard a loud noise like a bomb. I was shocked, but I thank God that I am alive. I pray that God should grant the dead eternal rest.” This is the second time a bomber would attack the GSM market in Potiskum.

Police rescue abducted council boss From James Azania, Lokoja •Former Head of State and Chairman, Nigeria Prays, Gen. Yakubu Gowon (left), with Deputy Governor of Gombe State, Mr Tha’Anda Rubainu, singing during the Northeast National Prayer Rally for Peace in Nigeria, at ECWA Church in Bauchi...yesterday

APC accuses ex-Governor Sheriff’s thugs of attacking Shettima’s convoy •PDP: it’s unfortunate we were linked to the attack

HE All Progressives Congress (APC) in Borno State has alleged that the thugs loyal to former Governor Ali Modu Sheriff yesterday attacked the convoy of Governor Kashim Shettima while on a working visit in Maiduguri. According to the APC Chairman, Ali Bukar Dalori, the thugs allegedly attacked the convoy of Governor Shettima, smashing about 10 vehicles. Dalori in a statement made available by the Special Adviser on Media to Governor Shettima, Isa Gusau, said the attack “seemed carefully planned with the apparent endorsement of Sheriff”, adding that the thugs allegedly attacked Shettima about 4:30pm in Maiduguri along Sir Kashim Ibrahim Way, while on a working visit in hospitals in the metropolis with his aides. The statement reads: “The thugs came out from a campaign office belonging to Sher-

From Duku Joel, Maiduguri

iff called UTC and soon after the governor’s official vehicle had passed, the thugs went after the vehicles in the convoy, smashing windscreens. “After he was informed, Shettima ordered his security details to restrain their men from using fire arms or any form of assault in order not to heighten tension in the state and compromise counter-insurgency operations. “From all indication, these youths were sent by SAS. We know some of them, they are his boys. He created thuggery in Borno State when he was a governor. This administration is creating jobs and building human capacity to discourage thuggery, but SAS wants to take us to the era of thuggery. “About 4:30pm today, 10 vehicles in the governor’s convoy were smashed by PDP thugs loyal to Sheriff. Governor Shettima quickly

stopped his security details from any assault defence and also stopped APC youths from reprisal because he has always worked for peace. “We live in Maiduguri, we are the people that stand to lose if peace is truncated. SAS lives in Abuja with houses all over the world. So he will not care if Maiduguri goes up in flames. All the violence he is orchestrating is aimed at stopping elections in Borno State, but God will never allow evil to succeed over good. “We are telling him to call his thugs to order because the Borno State government under the APC will not allow anyone to perpetrate violence in the state after our efforts to fight Boko Haram and restore peace in Maiduguri. We won’t allow him to succeed. We will take every lawful step available to us. “Whether he likes it or not, his era has passed in Borno State, nothing can change that history insha Allah. We urge

the Federal Government to call SAS to order. If he is above the law, the Federal Government should tell us, but we will not be lawless and we will not allow him have his way.” But the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) said it was unfortunate that the APC-led government linked it to the attack. Spokesman for ex-Governor Sheriff, Mr. Inuwa Bwala, enjoined security agencies to brace up to their responsibilities, saying that “whatever happened to Shettima is a balance of terror”. Bwala, who spoke to our correspondent on the telephone, said: “I find it difficult to react to what happened in Maiduguri when I am in Abuja. “What is happening in Borno State is a reaction to balance of terror. I urge the security agencies to be alive to their responsibilities to ensure that the governor and his people are called to order.”

Emir to displaced Mubi residents: return home

HE Emir of Mubi, Alhaji Abubakar IsaAhmadu, has called on persons displaced from his domain by Boko Haram insurgents to return home. The call is contained in a statement issued yesterday in Abuja by Mr. Sani Datti, Senior Information Officer, National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA). The statement quoted the Emir as saying this when he received a Federal Government delegation, led by the Minister of Youth Development, Mr. Boni Haruna, in his palace. The delegation also included officials of NEMA. The emir urged the residents to cooperate with NEMA personnel to assess the level of damage caused by the insurgents in Mubi. Isa-Ahmadu enjoined the people of Mubi to be vigilant, law-abiding and assist the Federal Government to maintain peace and security. The Emir thanked Presi-

dent Goodluck Jonathan for his concern towards the condition of the displaced persons. Haruna told the Emir that the delegation was in Mubi to assess the level of peace and security.

“The commander of the Battalion based in Mubi has assured that soldiers have cleared the town and made it safe for law-abiding citizens to return home,” the minister said.

Mr. Musa Zakari, leader of the NEMA team, said they would conduct thorough assessment of the level of damage in the town and recommend to the government the appropriate support to the victims.

Atiku urges police on Falaki’s murder

ORMER Vice President Atiku that the police station was a sanctuary of safety Abubakar has urged the police to pro- for him from the jungle justice he was receivvide explanations on the circumstances ing in the hands of locals, who had mistaken that led to the murder of Prof. Ahmed Falaki him for a member of the dreaded Boko Haram sect. of the Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. “That men of the Nigeria Police will stand He said in a statement by his media office in Abuja yesterday that “the explanation and become witnesses to murder, and even given thus far about how the leading Pro- allow the police station to become the theatre fessor of Agriculture died under police cus- of jungle justice, is a very disturbing narrative about the circumstance in which Prof Falaki tody falls short of logical assimilation.” According to the statement, the account was killed. “Such a narrative is an embarrassment to the given by the police on the circumstances that led to the death of Prof. Falaki, a scholar professional integrity of the Nigeria Police and and Africa’s leading authority in Agricul- it is wholesomely unacceptable. The leadership of the Police must commission a thorough ture, is an embarrassment to the police. “It is particularly distasteful and con- investigation into the circumstances in which founding that the police will confuse the Prof. Falaki was killed.” The former Vice President, who extolled the identity of a personality such as Prof. Falaki virtues of the late Africa’s leading professor of as a member of the Boko Haram sect. “In the manner that Prof. Falaki was Agriculture, described his death as a huge loss killed, it is not in doubt that he had believed to the intellectual community in Africa.

EN of the Kogi State Police Command at the weekend rescued the abducted Director of Local Government of Adavi Local Government, Alhaji

Abdulazeez Ohere. The police in a statement in Lokoja said the victim was rescued after an intensive hunt. No suspect was arrested. Ohere was kidnapped in his home at Agassa in Okene Local Government. According to the statement by police spokesman Sola Collins Adebayo, Ohere, who was kidnapped on February 13 by suspected hoodlums, was released last Saturday. He said the victim was rescued about 7:30am at Adavi, following the pressure mounted by the police in conjunction with other security agencies. The victim’s official white Hilux van, which was abandoned by the kidnappers at their den, was recovered.Police Commissioner Adeyemi Ogunjemilusi, who confirmed the incident, said the victim was hale and hearty and had been re-united with his family.

APC plotting to accuse me of selling shares, says Aliyu •‘He’s being chased by his shadow’

NIGER State Governor Dr. Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu

said yesterday that he had uncovered another plot by the All Progressives Congress (APC) to blackmail his administration over allegation of selling 20 per cent of state shares of the Shiroro hydro power station. He said the allegation was part of a smear campaign by

From Jide Orintunsin, Minna

the opposition against his administration to whip up sentiment for cheap public sympathy. But the Public Secretary of the APC, Jonathan Vatsa, denied such plan, saying the governor and the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) were only being chased by their shadows.

Aspirant dumps PDP for APC WO-time governorship aspirant on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Jigawa State, Aminu Kani, with his thousands of supporters at the weekend dumped the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the All Progressives Congress (APC). Kani, an architect and thousands of his supporters denounced his PDP membership and registered as APC members at Matsaro ward in Hadejia, Jigawa State. Speaking to reporters after his registration, Kani said his decision followed poor governance by the PDP and its nondemocratic attitude.

NURTW warns against thuggery

HE National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) has warned its members against being used to perpetrate violence during the coming elections. It said the era of desperate politicians approaching members of the union for al-

From Adekunle Jimoh, Ilorin

leged political thuggery and violence was over. NURTW President, Najeem U. Yasin, spoke to reporters at the weekend in Ilorin, after inaugurating the Central Mosque at the Ilorin International Airport.

CAN denies threatening Christians From Duku Joel, Maiduguri

ORNO State chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has described as baseless, fictitious and unfounded, an allegation that the association is threatening its members over their support for General Muhammadu Buhari and the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the coming elections. The CAN Chairman, Rev. Titus Pona, in a statement last Saturday in Maiduguri titled: ‘Response To The Wild Threat of Allegations of Threat to Christians in the State’, said the allegation was untrue.

THE NATION MONDAY FEBRUARY 23, 2015

NEWS

Akingbola: Appeal Court overrules trial judge’s decision on N5b graft case T HE Court of Appeal, Lagos Division has overruled the dismissal of a N5billion corruption charge instituted against Dr. Erastus Akingbola before a Federal High Court. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had sued the former managing director of the defunct Intercontinental Bank before Justice Charles Achibong, but the court dismissed the charge for want of diligent prosecution. In dismissing the suit, Justice Archibong insisted that the prosecution team was “a drain to the public purse, a fact the AGF should be mindful of now if he was not be-

Ex-Ondo PDP chair named coordinator

By Precious Igbonwelundu

fore. “This prosecution team has chosen to pursue a campaign to scandalise the court, which amounts to serious and professional incompetence in the prosecution of the accused. “This prosecution team or any part of it shall not be given further audience in this court in relation to the charges against the accused either before this presiding judge or any other judge of the Federal High Court, for the reason I have given in the foregoing. Dissatisfied by the court judgment, EFCC approached the court of appeal seeking

that the lower court’s decision be set aside and Akingbola made to face trial. EFCC, had in its appeal urged the court to set aside the entire decision of Justice Archibong, as well as issue an order remitting the case to the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court for re-assignment to another judge for retrial. Hence in a unanimous decision, the appeal panel presided by Justice Yargata Nimpar on behalf of Justice Amina Augie described as nullity, the trial court’s verdict. It ordered that the case file

be remitted to the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court for reassignment to another judge for accelerated hearing and on its merit. It held that a Judge must have a sound basis for any judgment, as a judgment cannot be made in vague. The appellate court held that any bystander who watched the proceedings that necessitated the appeal, cannot possibly come to a conclusion that there was fair hearing. It accused the trial judge of overreacting in his state of anger and fell short of the composure, decorum and

standard expected of judges in the discharge of their judicial duties. Noting that a court must decide on the merit of every application before it, Justice Augie held that it could not be said that the prosecution (EFCC) was not ready to move its application for stay of proceedings on the day. In its four grounds of appeal, EFCC contended that the trial Judge erred in law when he proceeded to dismiss the criminal charge without affording the commission the opportunity to be heard. It claimed that the decision of the lower court on the dismissal of the case did not emanate from any of the ap-

HE immediate past Chairman of the Ondo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Hon. Ebenezer Alabi has been appointed as the state Coordinator of the Mobilisation and Organisation Committee of the party. Alabi, who also doubles as the Chairman of a non-governmental organisation (NGO), Omoilu Foundation, is expected to use his position to bring together the various interest groups in the state ahead of the general elections. Presenting him to reporters at the weekend, the Chairman, Organisation and Mobilisation Committee of the PDP in the Southwest, Prince Buruji Kashamu, described Alabi as “a man of integrity and an experienced politician who has been tried, tested and trusted. Over the years, he has shown hat he has excellent leadership skills and that he is a team player, hence his latest assignment.”

Tom Associates Trainers’ Clinic

HIS year’s edition of Tom Associates Trainers’ Clinic will hold tomorrow in Lagos. The clinic is a free yearly meeting the organisation has convened since 1994 for senior human resources practitioners and manpower development managers of various industries, governments and the media. The main topic for this year is: Leading Strategic Corporate Change-The Human Resources Role as the Change Driver. The Guest Speaker is Mr Olu Onakoya, the immediate past chairman/managing director, Mobil Oil Nigeria, an ExxonMobil company. Onakoya, a chemical engineer, is the first Nigerian Chairman/Managing Director in the Exxon Mobil Group and he has great experiences he wants to share with human resources professionals. He was general manager, Human Capital Development, Exxon Mobil Nigeria, General Manager/Chief Executive, Mobil Oil Ethiopia, Chairman/Managing Director, Mobil Oil Ghana, Chairman/ Managing Director, Mobil Oil Zimbabwe, before his appointment to head the downstream subsidiary of Exxon Mobil in Nigeria.

plications pending before the judge. The commission maintained that the judge failed to invite parties in the case to address him and that the decision to strike out the criminal case constituted a violation of the prosecution’s rights to fair hearing. In the particulars of errors raised against the Judge, EFCC claimed that it had on September 2, 2011, asked Justice Archibong to disqualify or excuse himself from the case on the fear of likelihood of bias. It averred that rather than disqualifying himself, the Judge went ahead to hear the case even when a notice of appeal had been filed against his refusal to handsoff the case. The commission contended that at the time the Judge struck out the case against Akingbola, a valid appeal was already pending before a higher court, thus reducing the action of the trial judge to judicial rascality.

Firm rewards partners with cars, cash prize From Tayo Johnson, Ibadan

•Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola (second right) listening to Managing Director, Vaults Gardens, Mr Ade Ogundeyin (middle) when the governor inspected projects at the Christians and Muslims cemetery on Lekki-Epe Expressway...yesterday. With them are Dr Adeyemi Isiba (left) and Surveyor-General Joseph Agbenla (right). PHOTO: OMOSEHIN MOSES

Naval chief to personnel: assault civilians and get sacked

N what appears a last warning to naval personnel to shun indiscipline and lawlessness, the Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Usman Jibrin has vowed to dismiss anyone who assaults a civilian. He gave the warning at the weekend during an interactive session with officers and ratings at the Naval Training Command (NAVTRAC) in Apapa, Lagos. Vice Admiral Jibrin noted that such acts by Naval personnel have become embarrassing, reminding them that their enemies were terrorists and not innocent citizens from whose tax they (security personnel) were being paid. The CNS said: “Our relationship with civilians have become embarrassing. Our behaviour towards the citizens and other colleagues

By Precious Igbonwelundu

have become totally embarrassing. You must know that whoever pays your salary deserves all the respect. “I have heard reports and there are litigation against Naval personnel. Some of you have been caught fighting on the streets and stabbing civilians. Those people you fight do you think they do not have relations? Is there any Nigerian who does not have family? “If your relation is killed by a Naval personnel will you sleep for a night? I am here today to warn you for the last time to desist from such acts. I have travelled in the course of my career with the navy, I have gained exposure and I can tell you some of the things we do in Africa cannot be tried elsewhere. “We as Nigerians must

also try to stop those acts. Do not unjustifiably take another person’s life. I do not want to hear that my personnel are fighting on the street, you are beating civilians or even fighting with sister forces. “Once I hear of any such thing or that any of you killed someone, I will set up a general court martial, ease the person out and hand him over to the police for prosecution. “Our common enemy today is not innocent civilians but members of Boko Haram. It is our duty to protect the civilians.” Vice-Admiral Jibrin also warned his personnel to stay away from politics as the elections draw near, reminding them that their loyalty is to the Constitution. He praised them for stamping out piracy and oil theft

in the nation’s waterways, adding that the international oil companies and maritime operators have attested to the development. Vice Admiral Jibrin also assured his personnel of sustained welfare packages, adding that he would not relent on training, better housing facilities, among others.

•Vice Admiral Jibrin

Akobundu’s nomination well deserved, says Orji

HE ministerial nomination of Col Austine Akobundu by President Goodluck Jonathan has been described as well deserved by Abia State Governor Theodore Orji. In a statement by his Special Adviset on Public Communication, Ben Onyechere, Orji chided those criticising the nomination. He said: “The nomination of Akobundu is not only timely, but a new vista in the mode and character as well as quality of appointment in President Jonathan’s cabinet, considering his attitude to work and devo-

tion as well as loyalty to service.” The governor described the nominee as a man whose “zeal for patriotism marks him out as somebody who is properly suited in the life of this administration with the urgent need to unravel and deliver the successes of President Jonathan’s administration to the populace.” He added that “the insinuation from a familiar quarter that his appointment should not have been recommended by the governor is porous, malicious, repugnant and in fact as usual

anti-Abia. It is important to note that the appointment of ministers is a prerogative of the President, bearing the approval of the National Assembly. Moreover, the appointee is not only a high ranking party official, but one who has paid his dues and as such there is nothing wrong with his constituency which is Abia Central as distinct from the immediate past minister of Labour who is from Abia south.” The governor said rather than criticism, Akobundu’s nomination is a plus for Abia State. He urged the Senate to con-

firm his nomination so that he could contribute his quota to national development.

Z Wilmar has given out five new cars and other gifts to winners

in the ‘Devon King’s Cruise Promo’, in Benin. The promo is put in place to reward key distributors of Devon King’s Oil nationwide with prizes worth over N100 million. The Regional Sales Manager, Abbey Matanmi, said the promo is to appreciate the contributions of distributors to create strong presence for Devon King’s Oil nationwide. He said the brand is made in Nigeria by PZ Wilmar, making it affordable while retaining its high quality standard and taste delivery it is known for over the years. Mrs. Ozigbo Mabel, CEO of Osas Ventures, who won a Hyundai Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV), hailed the company for fulfilling its promise of rewarding customer loyalty. She said the oil is the brand most families consume because they trust its high quality. Another winner, Mr. Cyril Emanerame, the managing director, Cyquem Ventures, was full of excitement as he received the key to the new SUV. He said he was proud to be associated with the brand, adding that the future of the partnership looked bright because the demand for Devon King’s Oil was on the rise.

Moradeyo dies in Lagos at 74

HE death has occurred in Lagos of Madam Mopelola Margaret Moradeyo (nee Ogundipe). She died on February 10. She was 74. The deceased is the wife to Chief I.O. Moradeyo (Chairman/CEO, Femope Ltd, Balogun of Holy Trinity Anglican Church, Amuwo Odofin, Mazamaza Mile 2, Lagos). According to a statement by the eldest son, Mr. Kola Moradeyo, (CEO, Moore-Advice Ltd), on behalf of the family, funeral arrangement would be announced soon. She is survived by Chief Moradeyo, Kola, Femi Moradeyo, Tope Ogunbowale (nee Moradeyo) and grandchildren.

THE NATION MONDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2015

NEWS Jega meets NSA team, others today on state of security Continued from page 4

ought to be done.” “ICCES is chaired by the National Security Adviser. The INEC chairman is co-chair. Others are representatives of the Defence Headqurters (DHQ), Army, Air Force, Navy, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Directorate of State Security (DSS), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Commission (NSCDC), Customs Service, Immigration Service, Fire Service and Nigeria Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).” Another source said: “We

want to know the status of the security in the Northeast. We do not want to wait till the last minute. All the National Commissioners of INEC are also expected to be in attendance. “This explains why this session is called in the early part of the second week of the sixweek window for the postponement of the elections. “Nigerians and the international community are eager to know how far we have addressed the security challenges in the affected areas. “Expectedly, we will also brief the session on the number of Permanent Voters Cards

collected, the training of 600,000 ad hoc staff on the use of Card Readers and the feedback from the monitoring of preparations for the poll in all the six geo-political zones.” There were indications last night that INEC might restrict the military and Mobile Police to fringe posts during the general elections. A National Commissioner said: “Military men have no role in the conduct of the elections; they are only expected to stay at designated checkpoints to make sure people do not traffic arms, ammunition or any-

education institutions and investing his energy and resources in his homeland. A letter dated January 16 and signed by University of London Vice Chancellor Prof Adrian Smith, said the Collegiate Council of the university found Babalola deserving of the honour, which forms a part of the university’s international graduation ceremony. “Each year, the University of London International Academy is eligible to award honorary degrees on persons of eminence and distinction,” the letter said. According to Smith, a potential awardee must have met cer-

tain requirements, such as being ‘a person of conspicuous merit’, or one ‘who is outstanding in a chosen field’, ‘commands international recognition’, ‘has given exceptional service to the community’, and ‘has made important contributions to the university’. Interestingly, Babalola is a beneficiary of the opportunity offered by the University of London as external candidate of its examinations, which were first introduced in Africa in 1865. Reputed as the mother of British universities, the University of London has birthed numerous colleges in the United King-

thing that could tamper with the electoral process. “They also stay at these checkpoints in readiness for rapid deployment, if there is any security challenge during the elections. No soldiers will be at the Polling Units, Collation Centres or have any direct contact with the conduct of the elections. Even the Mobile Police will only engage in fringe patrols without coming to the Polling Units. This is our position.” The INEC chairman announced the poll shift based on advisory from security and intelligence services.

Babalola bags University of London award Continued from page 4

mond Tutu also received a honorary doctorate in Divinity in celebration of the anniversary of the foundation of the university on December 2, 2008. Other past awardees include war hero Winston Churchill and the distinguished poet T.S. Eliot. However, unlike Tutu who had a close working relationship with the University of London and consequently served as Associate of King’s College and visiting professor in post-conflict societies in 2004, Chief Babalola simply stayed put in Africa building

dom as well as the Commonwealth countries, many of which later metamorphosed into autonomous universities. The University of London also nurtured Nigeria’s premier university - The University of Ibadan - which was established in 1948. Reacting to the award, Babalola said aside his “monumental” achievements in the legal profession, the strings of landmarks recorded by the Afe Babalola University Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD), an institution he established five years ago as a pacesetter in quality and functional education, also contributes to his new achievement.

•Peterside (fourth left front row), his runningmate Asita (third left), Iriase (second right) and other members of the delegation...yesterday.

‘Interim Govt is treasonable’ Continued from page 4

task meant to serve the common good of the family that is the nation. The hot competition between political parties should not make them forget the common objectives that everyone should be pursuing: justice, peace, prosperity, harmony, good order, building a nation we can all be proud of, etc. “The differences are in strategies and priorities. These are what should be presented to us, positively and transparently, to guide our free choice at elections. ”There should, therefore, not be room for negative campaigns. Personal insults and caricatures should give way to rational discussion of issues that concern us all. Truth must be sacrosanct even in politics. Lies, deceit, calumnies cannot move us forward. “They are the hallmarks of the bad politics which have not allowed us achieve the high level that we deserve as a nation. These are what builds tensions, heat up the polity, spreads dangerous rumours and cause deep distrust among rival political groups. All this is not in the interest of our people,” he said. On the rescheduled elections, Cardinal Onaiyekan urged politicians to use the extra time to mend fences. He also warned that the new dates should not be violated to avoid dire consequences. He said that while the president has promised that the elections will hold on schedule and that May 29th remains sacrosanct for a new government to take over, he urged him to caution his supporters not to poison the air. According to him, the dates are declarations by the President and he should be given the benefit of the doubt. He said: “However, one judges the wisdom or even justice of the postponement of the elections, we should commend the political parties for patiently accepting a ‘fait accompli’ that seriously disrupted the plans - and maybe even budget - of many of them. “The nation will nevertheless be better served if we use the unexpected extra time to work for better outcome in our elec-

tions. Can we spend the time left to change attitudes, repair broken relationships and build trust? For example, Mr. President has declared publicly that he is committed to a free and fair elections. While we believe him, we hope that he will not allow any of his supporters to poison this his holy resolve. “In the same vein, he has declared that not only May 29 but also March 28 and April 11 are sacrosanct dates. There is no question of any new shift of dates. By the same token, he has excluded any idea of a much speculated ‘interim government’ for which there is no provisions in our constitution. These are sacred declarations from our President, which cannot be violated without the kind of serious consequence that is in nobody’s interest. “It would be better, therefore, that we give Mr. President the benefit of the doubt and stop sowing doubts that only raise tensions and create avoidable anxieties.” The Archbishop urged clergymen not to make reckless remarks and political utterances liable to compromise their sacred role. He said, “The clergy should lead in this regard. As spiritual fathers to all for the common good, they should avoid reckless and politically partisan utterances, liable to compromise their sacred role and confuse the flock. “We commend and encourage our members to have decided to take on the apostolate of public life, in the spirit of service and not for selfish aims. As Catholic politicians, they should be witnesses to the truth, justice and peace that are the hallmarks of our Catholic Social Teaching. If it is often said that ‘politics is dirty’, they should dare to be different, armed with God’s grace, and play a clean game, even at the cost of being declared losers at the polls. “As for the rest of... faithful, you are ambassadors of Christ to spread peace and harmony all around us. Reject and refuse to spread unfounded alarms, dangerous rumours, promote mutual trust and love, so that, together we can make our nation one united family under God our father.”

Reps to security agents: don’t take sides in Rivers politics

DELEGATION of the House of Representatives on a visit to All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate in Rivers State, Dr. Dakuku Adol Peterside, yesterday, urged security agencies not to take sides in the political contest in the state. They also urged politicians to play politics by the rules and campaign on issues. The delegation, led by Pally Iriase (Edo State), condemned last Tuesday’s violence in Okrika, the headquarters of Okrika Local Government Area of Rivers State, during Peterside’s campaign, where gunmen killed a police corporal, Ifeanyi Okorie, 33, and injured about 50 people including Channels television reporter Charles Eruka. Peterside described the situation in the state as horrible and terrible, which he said should be unacceptable to well-meaning people. He described it as a major threat to democracy and the electoral process. The Rivers APC’s governorship candidate, also a member of the House of Representatives, received the visitors along with his running mate, Okorie Honourable Asita, a lawyer and also a member of the House of Representatives; a member of the Board of Trustees of the APC, Dr. Sam Sam Jaja; the Di-

•Violence major threat to democracy, says Peterside From Bisi Olaniyi, Port Harcourt

rector-General of Peterside’s Greater Together Campaign Organisation, Chief Victor Giadom; the leader of the APC in Obio/Akpor Local Government, Chief Tony Okocha; and Dr. Dawari George, a member of the House of Representatives from Rivers state, among other eminent personalities. The leader of delegation said: “We have come to commiserate with our colleague. We have come to also, by extension, commiserate with the people of Rivers State. We have come to commiserate with the Nigeria Police Force, because apart from the many wounded persons, during the ugly incident in Okrika, a policeman lost his life. We have been watching the events that have culminated in the loss of lives, but now a serving police officer was cut down at the prime of his age. As these events were developing, we had been quietly watching, but seriously disturbed that no serious action had been taken by the law enforcement agencies, to nip the ugly trend in the bud. Had that been done, we will not be here today to be paying condolence on the death of the policeman.

“It is so painful and we will take it a little further eventually, but this is the first step, to signpost our abhorence for this dastardliness in our body polity. We do not need to waste human lives over political contest. We all are asking to be given the mandate to serve. We are applicants for servanthood. Where is the room for killing and maiming people, if you are genuinely asking to be given the opportunity to serve people? “We came in order to let the world know that the House of Representatives, as presently constituted, is totally unhappy with the violent trend that is now unfolding in the political arena. We feel particularly saddened because we know you (Peterside) as a fine gentleman. We have been together for many years. We know your antecedents. We know your Christian inclination. You are a born again Christian and you will not want to be associated with anything devilish. Our hearts bleed, when we know that it is somebody of your standing, who is being prevented from campaigning in your environment and people went to the extent of taking lives. “We are using this opportunity to send this message across to

every nook and cranny of Nigeria that we should play this game (politics) by the rules. We should campaign based on issues. We should ask people to vote for us, based on what we will want to do, whom we are and there should be no room any further for violence. “We are also using this opportunity to call on the security agencies to be up and doing, to be independent and not to take sides in this political contest. Our constitution does not allow them to take sides with any political party whatsoever. That imbues them with the independence and the authority to deal with whoever is attempting to perpetrate violence. From what has happened in Rivers State, it is now obvious that when you fail to do the right thing, you may even be the worst for it.” Peterside lauded the lawmakers for finding time to be with Rivers people, in spite their busy schedules, since most of them are busy with campaign programmes. The Rivers APC’s governorship candidate also expressed displeasure on yesterday’s kidnap of Freddy Ndigbara in his Kaani-Ogoni hometown in Khana LGA of Rivers state, while on

ward campaign. Peterside said: “Two days ago, a member of the APC was shot in Ogu (headquarters of Ogu/ Bolo LGA of Rivers State), a sister community to Okrika. About 8 p.m., he was in his house, two young men just stepped into his house, shot him dead and left, and nothing happened. We have always had military station in Bolo, but about three days ago, the military station was momentarily withdrawn and within that short period they were withdrawn, our people in Bolo were attacked severely. After the attack, the military station was restored. “We signed a peace accord in January, facilitated by the American government. US Ambassador was physically present. Shortly after signing the peace accord, APC’s secretariats in Okrika and Andoni, my federal constituency, were bombed. We went further to sign another accord, facilitated by the InspectorGeneral of Police (Suleiman Abba). He was represented by the AIG, Zone 6, Calabar, Tunde Ogunsakin. After the signing of the second peace accord, APC’s rally venue in Okrika was bombed on January 24, 2015. On a single day, eleven members of

APC were killed in Omoku, among other attacks and killings across the 23 LGAs of Rivers State. We have always reported to the police. To our chagrin, till date, not one person has been arrested to our knowledge. “We are glad to hear that after the last incident in Okrika, which drew national attention, that the IGP has enpanelled the AIG, Zone 6, to lead investigations to issues of political violence in Rivers State. Like the House of Representatives condemned the development in Rivers State, all men of goodwill must rise up and condemn the emerging trend of political violence in Rivers State. It does no one any good. It is a potential danger to all people and to all Nigerians, but most importantly, to our fledging democracy. Our democracy is still at its fragile stage. It also affects the integrity of the electoral process. In the face of intimidation and harassment, people cannot come out and freely cast their votes. Even when we conduct elections, they will not reflect the will of the people. If results of the elections do not reflect the will of the people, that will be an invitation to anarchy, chaos and crisis. That is not what we are bargaining for. I do not think we are ready for that.”

THE NATION MONDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2015

SHOWBIZ

Stella Damasus, Toyin Aimakhu trade words

N what suddenly became a Twitter row, actresses Stella Damasus and Toyin Aimakhu, over the weekend, kept their fans busy when they took volleys at each other. Though the thespians are known to have been engaging each other in a quiet war over the former’s affair with filmmaker, Daniel Ademinokan, things came to a head recently when Toyin, again, took to Twitter to attack Stella. Among other things, Toyin accused Stella of ‘stealing’ Daniel when she said; ‘Madam, Nigeria is my country. Nobody is killing anyone cos no be only you do video. #VisaDonExpire

• Stella Damasus

By Ovwe Medeme

#BringOurSonBack #AttentionSeeker #LoveYouStill.’ However, in Stella’s new vlog, she chose to reply what she describes as Toyin’s mean tweet when she stated; ‘I love you like crazy. But let’s look at your hashtags again. You said #VisaDonExpire#, I have been in this country for about two years, and nobody has asked me to leave. Apart from that, I’m doing a lot of work with the United Nations. If I had a problem with my visa, I don’t think they would be working with me. When it comes to the visa issue, let’s be sure of what we

• Toyin Aimakhu

are saying.’ On the #BringOurSonBack hashtag, Stella replied; ‘Is her son missing? Does she have a son? If your son is missing,

• Yemi Alade

• A scene from the movie, Fifty Shades of Grey By Ovwe Medeme

Johnson with screenplay by Kelly Marcel. The film stars Dakota Johnson as Anastasia Steele, a college graduate who begins a sadomasochistic relationship with young business magnate Christian Grey (Jamie Dornan). The film premiered at the 65th Berlin International Film

Festival on February 11 and had a wide release on February 13 by Michael De Luca Productions, Trigger Street Productions, Focus Features and Universal Pictures. After premiering at a fan screening in New York City on February 6, TaylorJohnson announced that two sequels will be made, with the first to be released in 2016.

OR artistes and celebrities, fame has a way of changing their lifestyle. Most would agree that with fame comes the need to be more aware of one’s utterances and actions in public, but sultry music diva, Yemi Alade, is having none of that. On a light note, Alade revealed to fans, her love for the traditional foodstuff, Ijebu Garri (cassava flakes from Ijebu). She posted on her new page, “If I call Eko signature room service and ask for IjebuGarri now...They would think I am joking!! Who jokes about such precious things.” She followed it with a straight face emoji. It would appear that the songstress is fast settling to her new Instagram account, @officialyemialade. Recall that her former Instagram handle was reportedly hacked and details of her conversation were leaked. An excited Yemi also gave a warm salute to her fans. “Major shoutout to everyone that showed love and reposted...including those that spoke about it on radio and TV.Getting your personal Instagram hacked can be a horrible experience but I am thankful to all my colleagues and friends that joined hands to make a bad experience better. I would have tagged you all but I don’t wanna miss anybody’s name and seem ungrateful. God bless you for blessing me... Rocking my @bland2glam Earings. ..hoha,” she posted.

Nick Gordon: I can save Bobbi Kristina, but I need to see her

the latter was responsible for the separation of Doris Simeon and her estranged husband, Daniel Ademinokan.

By Ovwe Medeme

ICK Gordon is making a public plea to let him into his girlfriend, Bobbi Kristina’s hospital room, because he believes his presence could save her life. In a tweet, Nick said, “Let me in the hospital to see my girl and let her hear my voice SHE WILL WAKE UP!!!” Nick is going public because he’s getting nowhere with the Brown and Houston family. He has been barred from the hospital and several members of the Brown family have threatened physical harm if he shows his face. The fallout between Nick and Bobbi Kristina’s family is not unconnected with a criminal investigation which is targeted at the former, because of injuries on Bobbi Kristina’s body when paramedics removed her from her home after she was found

Toyin Aimakhu and some of her colleagues in the Yoruba movie industry are said to be unhappy with Stella over allegations that

Between Yemi Alade and Garri Ijebu

NFVCB bans Fifty Shades of Grey few days after its cinema release, the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB), has banned the movie, Fifty Shades of Grey, from showing in Nigerian cinemas. The much-talked-about flick which showed in most major cinemas in Nigeria in its first week of release has been removed from list of movies showing in Nigeria cinemas, in compliance with the directive of the regulatory authority. Only recently, the Kenyan Film and Classification Board banned the film which has been rated as one of the most anticipated movies of the year. The movie is a 2015 American erotic romantic drama film directed by Sam Taylor-

let us look for him.You know I know how to do videos as you said. Tell me and I will scream till my lungs burst or something.’

submerged in the bathtub. Nick is said to be groveling to see her with no luck, and now he is publicly pleading for a visit. It will be recalled that members of the Houston and Brown family have ac- • A scene from the movie, Fifty Shades of Grey cused Nick Gordon of not trying enough to consistently blocked by the and continues to hope that see ailing Bobbi Kristina in family. Kessler adds, “Nick his request will be granted.” hospital, despite being fin- has respected the family’s As we previously reported, gered in the latter’s health wishes and for that reason some of Bobbi Krisitna’s orsituation. alone has not returned to the gans are beginning to shut Bobbi Kristina, the only hospital and risked a public down and doctors say it is daughter of late music icon, confrontation.” only a matter of time. Whitney Houston, was resIt was said that Bobby Bobbi Kristina is hanging cued from drowning in her Brown’s relatives have on, but doctors have already bathtub, and has remained in threatened to lay “hands on advised pulling life support coma in the last two weeks. him” if Nick ever shows up. would be a medically sound Gordon’s lawyer, Randall Kessler however added decision. Bobby Brown has Kessler, says Nick’s efforts to that, “He desperately wants resisted, believing prayer can see Bobbi Kristina have been to be with the one he loves work miracles.

Dayo Amusa turns musician By Mercy Michael

RADUALLY, Nollywood actress, Dayo Amusa, is breaking new grounds as she adds singing to her portfolio with the recent release of her second single. Dayo made her debut as a musician with the release of Unforgiveable, the soundtrack of her movie of the same title, starring Nollywood actors Mike Ezeruonye and Desmond Elliot. Many would have thought that Dayo’sUnforgiveable was a flash in the pan, but the actress as surprised her fans as she follows up with another single, Blow my Mind. Produced by PsalmJazzy and mixed by Teepiano, the single which was released on the internet a few days ago, has been receiving heavy download. The crossover actress also runs a school called PayDad, in Ibadan, Oyo State.

• Dayo Amusa

THE NATION MONDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2015

FOREIGN NEWS

41 dead as Bangladesh ferry sinks

N overcrowded ferry sank in a Bangladesh river on Sunday, leaving at least 41 people including 11 children dead as rescuers searched into the night for missing passengers, officials said. The ferry collided with a cargo vessel and sank within minutes on the Padma river, the second deadly boat accident in a fortnight in the country, which has a history of ferry tragedies. “Divers have recovered 41 bodies. The dead included 11 children and seven women,” local police chief Rakibuz Zaman told AFP. Officials said they did not know the exact number of people missing, but passengers said between 70 to 150 people

had been on board, while Zaman said 50 of those “swam ashore or were rescued by other vessels”. Amid fears for those still missing, search and rescue efforts were continuing into the night, with the aid of floodlights from other ferries on the river, Zaman said. Rescuers were unloading bodies from small boats some 70 kilometres (50 miles) west of the capital Dhaka at the Paturia ferry terminal, where grieving relatives gathered to identify them. “We found one body but five are still missing. We were returning home after the opening of a temple,” Hindu holy man Kumud Ranjan Goswami

said of his colleagues. An 18-year-old girl broke down in tears as rescue workers brought the bodies of three members of her family into the terminal — including her onemonth-old baby sister. “They took a meal at my home and then left for home (on the ferry),” the girl who gave her name only as Akhi said of her family’s visit. “A few hours later they are all gone,” she told AFP, staring at the baby. Survivors said the MV Mostofa was overcrowded with passengers crammed into the upper and lower decks, leaving them scrambling to find their loved ones when the tragedy struck.

Egypt charges 215 Muslim Brotherhood supporters

GYPT has charged 215 supporters of the banned Muslim Brotherhood with forming a militant group. The country's chief prosecutor accused the group - The Helwan Brigades - of killing six policemen and possessing weapons and ammunition. More than half of those charged are already in custody.

Thousands of Muslim Brotherhood members have been arrested since then-Army head, Abdel Fattah al-Sisi ousted the group from power in 2013 and later banned it. Mr al-Sisi was elected president last year and continued the campaign against the brotherhood and other Islamist groups. Prosecutor Hesham Barakat

said in a statement yesterday that the Helwan Brigades named after a district in the south of Cairo - had killed the six policemen and wounded several civilians in attacks in the city. Earlier this month, a Egyptian court upheld death sentences on 183 supporters of the Islamist group over a 2013 attack on a police station near Cairo.

“I was holding my mother’s hand when the cargo boat hit our ferry from behind,” an 18-yearold who gave his name as Al Amin told AFP at the terminal. “Within two minutes the ferry was sunk. Before I realised I was washed away to the middle of the river. “I swam and a ferry rescued me. But I don’t know what happened to my mom.” An official said a salvage vessel was on its way to raise the sunken ferry, adding that the master of the cargo ship and two other crew had been arrested. The Padma river is one of the largest in the delta nation, and boats are the main form of travel in many of Bangladesh’s remote rural areas, especially in the south and northeast. Bangladeshi ferries do not normally keep passenger lists, making it difficult to establish how many are missing after an accident. Local newspaper Prothom Alo quoted one survivor, Hafizur Rahman, as saying the cargo ship hit the boat 15 minutes after departure from Paturia en route across the river — causing it to overturn and trapping many passengers.

Ukraine crisis: Deadly bomb blast hits rally in Kharkiv BOMB has killed at least two people, including a police officer, and injured at least 10 more people at a rally in Ukraine's city Kharkiv. The rally was one of several being held to mark a year since the Kiev uprising that led to the fall of pro-Russia leader Viktor Yanukovych. Security forces have detained four suspects in the attack, officials say. Kharkiv lies outside the conflict zone in eastern Ukraine, where a ceasefire appears finally to be taking hold. The government has agreed to start pulling back heavy weapons from Sunday, and the rebels said they would start the process on Tuesday. The pullback will not be completed until at least March 8, five days later than the deadline set for peace talks in Minsk this month. Another key element of the Minsk deal moved forward on Saturday when the Ukrainian government and the rebels exchanged 191 prisoners. The BBC's Paul Adams in Donetsk says these two factors pro-

vide a glimmer of hope for the deal, but with so much suspicion and bad faith between the two sides, no-one should assume immediate results. The ceasefire continues to be breached, notably in Debaltseve, a key transport hub captured by the rebels in recent days, an OSCE official said. Alexander Hug added that the humanitarian situation there was "relatively catastrophic". "The local population reported to us that there is no water, no food, no gas, no heating, no electricity, no medication. And all the buildings that our monitors have seen have been affected by the fighting," he said. An amateur video shows a procession of a few hundred people, marching down one of Kharkiv's main streets. And then the blast. The crowd scatters, terrified. A man writhes in agony on the ground. Another lies lifeless on the snow. There have been other bomb attacks and explosions in Kharkiv in recent weeks, but this was the deadliest so far.

has need of you. Live your life for Jesus Christ. Confess your sins and avoid every sinful ways and acts ( 1 Kings 8:45-50). Then, you need to challenge the strong man to let you go. The Almighty God shall surely release every

“Chibok girls” and there shall be restoration, in Jesus’ name. Prayer: Lord, I come to you this day, forgive my sins, deliver me from every strong man holding my body, spirit and soul captive, in Jesus’ name.

LENT Theme: “Chibok girls” shall be released!

HE death of a child, according to elders, is far more comforting than when a child is missing. It can also be added that a damaged vehicle is less traumatic than the loss of a vehicle. The reason being that while the owner of a damaged vehicle is exploring avenues to fix the damaged car, the owner of a lost vehicle is faced with the trauma of how to get the vehicle back. The owner of a lost vehicle suspects every vehicle that looks like the stolen automobile and is at risk of temporal insanity, troubled heart, high blood pressure, and if not properly managed can lead to an untimely death. Viewed against that background, one can imagine the trauma of parents of the more than 200 innocent girls that were abducted by the monstrous Boko Haram insurgents since 14th of April 2014. Worse of it are the unimaginable effect of captivity on the young captives that have since been under forced brutal parenthood of evil guardians. After all the initial denials, unnecessary politicisation of the tragic event, propaganda and rebuttals by Government, their proteges and political opponents, it has now been accepted by all, including the “doubting Thomases”, that the girls are no longer in the serene Chibok town or the demonic Sambisa forest and may never experience the warm embrace of their parents ever again. While this is a very sad option to consider for us as a country, it is however an axiom of our faith that it is never over until it is over ( Luke 18:27). God “can make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert” ( Isaiah 43:19). We are therefore expected to have faith that the innocent girls, against every dashed hope, shall be located by God in no distant future and returned to the comfort of their homes and families, in Jesus’ name. The abducted Chibok girls through their unfortunate experience in captivity have now become a metaphor for anybody that is in captivity, forced imprisonment or held down where or into what he or she abhors.

Text: “... as soon as ye be entered into it, ye shall find a colt tied, whereon never man sat; loose him, and bring him.” (Mk. 11:2) From our text, one day when Jesus Christ came nigh to Jerusalem, unto Bethphage and Bethany, at the mount of Olives, He told two of His disciples to go to the next town to a place where two roads met where they would find an innocent ass tied. They should loose her and bring to Him. Lying beside her in captivity was a colt (Matt. 21:2-3), which brings it to fore that apart from being denied her freedom, the ass was disallowed from fulfilling her life purpose (being a beast of burden) and for her to have a child in that prostrate state depicts hopelessness and transfer of an evil inheritance to the life and destiny of that innocent colt. It is an axiom of faith that there are many “Chibok girls” around us - people that are in captivity of either body, soul and/or spirit. This is oftentimes manifested in the inability of the captives to fully exercise their desire and purpose. It also makes people indulge in acts that are beyond their physical control or when one is ‘forced’ by a spirit to do what he/she acknowledges to be wrong or when the heart is hardened to avoid doing what he/she knows is good. Captivity is a state where someone is held bound by a strong man. Who is a strong man? A strong man is a physical or spiritual power that is stronger than the captive. Jesus Christ explained this in Luke 11:22 that, “.. when a stronger man than he shall come upon him, and overcome him, he taketh from him all his armour wherein he trusted, and divideth his spoils.” A strong man is a stronger force that pushes people to forcefully go where they don’t want to go, do what they don’t desire to do, compensate with peanuts for a laborious work, live a life that is below expectable standard and subjects the captive to whatever the captor feels like. The good news brethren is that, it is “for this purpose the

Son of God was manifested, that He might destroy the works of the devil” ( 1 John 3:8). In His mission statement, Jesus Christ declared among others that, He was sent “......... to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised” (Luke 4:18). It doesn’t matter what you may be passing through at such a time brethren, the Almighty God has power to deliver and liberate you from the hold and control of powers of darkness. In His assuring words in Isaiah 49:24-26, Isaiah asked a question and God provided the answer that, “shall the prey be taken from the mighty,or the lawful captive delivered? But thus saith the Lord, Even the captives of the mighty shall be taken away, and the prey of the terrible shall be delivered: for I will contend with him that contendeth with thee, and I will save thy children. And I will feed them that oppress thee with their own flesh; and they shall be drunken with their own blood, as with sweet wine: and all flesh shall know that I the Lord am thy Saviour and thy Redeemer, the mighty One of Jacob.”

To be delivered from captivity is your birthright as a child of God. That place of captivity is not where you are supposed to be. What you need to do is to realise that the strong man attached to your predicament is a very wicked person or destructive force (John 10:10a; 1 Peter 5:8); it therefore takes seriousness to be delivered from his stronghold as “ no man can enter into a strong man’s house, and spoil his goods, except he will first bind the strong man; and then he will spoil his house” ( Mark 3:27) Jesus Christ said in Matthew 11:12 that, “.. from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffereth violence, and the violent take it by force.” It will take spiritual seriousness and not complacency of worshipping God at very convenient times or eating and drinking uncontrollably without a recourse to fasting or not taking the matter of prayers seriously. The key that can release every “Chibok girl” during this Lenten season is to surrender absolutely to Jesus Christ. Allow the strong man know that the Lord

THE NATION MONDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2015

CITYBEATS Uniformed men kill two, injure others S CITYBEATS LINE: 09091178827

OME uniformed men have shot dead two persons and injured three others in La-

gos. The incident occurred between 9.15pm and 9.45pm last Wednesday at Majidun near Ikorodu, Lagos. Two of the victims, who are in Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASAUTH) in Ikeja, said the gunmen were in military uniform. General Officer Commanding (GOC) 81 Division in Lagos Maj. Gen. Tanmi Dibi, told The Nation yesterday that the gunmen were not soldiers. He said: “There is no way such thing would happen and I will not know. Moreso, I have just inquired now and they told me none of our men was involved in that act.” Alhaji Aminu Salis, an engineer and his wife, Toyibah, who were alone in their car, said they were flagged down at Majidun Bus stop, and before they knew what was happening, one of the men opened fire on them. About five bullets pierced through his arm and legs, his wife was hit on her left leg. Their car was also riddled with bullets. Three other vehicles coming behind them were attacked. Two of the victims have died; others are in hospitals. Salis described the incident as traumatic. “We saw two men; one dressed in military uniform, another in mufti, checking vehicles. From a distance, we could see them flagging down motorists, looking into their cars and allowing them to move on. This led to traffic snarl around Majidun Bus stop. On getting to them, the one holding a gun asked me to come down, I thought they were on a routine check, as I opened the door, placed one leg on the floor, he cocked the gun and opened fire on us. I quickly told my wife awon ole leleyi, awon ole leleyi, (These are thieves, these are thieves); before I could put my leg back into the car, five bullets have hit us; I managed to drive and he pointed the gun at us. After driving past him, he faced back and opened fire at the vehicles behind us. By the time we reached Ogolonto where some Naval officers are stationed, I stopped and they (Naval officers) told me to keep going,” he said. “I had to come down to inform them of what happened,” Mrs Salis said. “But they were not ready to listen to us, saying they do not want to have any issue with the military men over there. It was after some drivers and passengers of other vehicles coming behind mounted pressure on them that we have been attacked that they decided to allow us stay there. “When their boss arrived and was told of the incident, he asked my husband to drive himself to the General Hospital, after all he drove the car up till that point. My

CONSULTANT Psychiatrist with the Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital in Yaba, Lagos Mainland, Dr Fauziyah Oduguwa, has enjoined couples to maintain psychological, social and spiritual stability. In a lecture titled: Maintaining emotional and psychological balance for status change (Marriage) at a yearly seminar organised by The Criterion, Dr Oduguwa explained that marriage has four different stages - the newly married stage, which is the first 12 months of marriage; the early years, which are the first five years of marriage; the middle

...Killers were robbers, says GOC

• Mrs Salis injured leg

•Alhaji Salis on his sick bed

•Blood stain at the driver’s side

•Some of the bullets inside the car By Tajudeen Adebanjo

husband told him he could no longer continue driving. I had to call some of our friends that left the place not quite long for help,” Mrs Salis, whose left leg was bandaged, said. Mr Sanni Kabir, an engineer, said he saw the two uniformed men between Itowolo and Majidun shooting sporadically, forcing motorists to slow down for checking. Kabir said five minutes after passing the gunmen, he got a distress call from Mrs Salis. “She told me that armed robbers

...as I opened the door, placed one leg on the floor, he cocked the gun and opened fire on us. I quickly told my wife awon ole leleyi, awon ole leleyi, (These are thieves, these are thieves); before I could put my leg back into the car, five bullets have hit us... have shot at them; I quickly turned back and met them at the place where the Naval men were stationed. From there, we took them to General Hospital; the medical

personnel demanded for police report, I rushed down to the nearest police station where I saw other victims with their vehicles at Ipakodo Police Station. Later on, after first aid, the hospital re-

ferred us to LASUTH. We got here (LASUTH) some minutes past 12 in the midnight,” he said. According to Salis, one of the policemen who saw some of the bullets in my car said they belonged to the military and not the police. Salis said the incident was first reported at Ipakodo Police Station where they met six other victims. Officers at the station, he said, directed them to Owode-Onirin Police Station. When contacted, Lagos State police spokesman, Kenneth Nwosu, a Deputy Superintendent, promised to check and get back.

Consultant calls for stress-free homes By Safiyyah Abdur-Razaq

years, which are between five and 20 years of marriage and the later years, which are over more than 20 years of marriage. She explained that of all the stages, the third stage is the most characterised with emotional, psychological and physical stress which can all lead to emotional distress if not properly managed. “Emotional distress is a range of symptoms and experiences in a person that are commonly troubling, sometimes confusing or out of the ordinary which can

lead to depression, illness, anxiety and psychosis,” she explained. She urged them to understand their rights and duties as husband and wife, communicate with each other, trust in Allah, be patient, forgive and relax to maintain emotional well-being. She said: “If however, emotional distress comes in, consider seeing a marriage counsellor, a psychologist or a psychiatrist. The psychiatrist may prescribe some medications and if they do not work, the couple may be advised to live separately and if

none of these work, divorce is the last resort” Amir (President), Islamic Study Group of Nigeria, Alhaji Nurain Titilayo Odunsi, who spoke on Sustaining Social and Spiritual Stability in Time of Marital Stress, explained that marital stress is often caused by failure in spousal obligations, infertility, unforgiveness, lack of emotional and social support and impotency. He then urged them to try as much as possible to avoid the causes and offered remedies in the event of any sign of marital stress. “Always go back to Allah.

Learn more about your faith and teach members of your family. Engage in healthy communication, spend more time alone together, forgive often, have more sex, and learn how to react to stress,” Alhaji Odunsi said. He also urged The Criterion to have a body for marriage counselling. “Marital stress will be a continuous phenomenon till the end of time. We have to learn how to cope with it and manage it. But do not use that to put more stress on those that are about to get married. Marriage is an essential part of our faith,” he said.

THE NATION MONDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2015

CITYBEATS

CITYBEATS LINE: 09091178827

•Some of the suspects

SUSPECTED pipeline vandal has said he used what he has to get what he wanted. Irede Ehimusan, a Fisherman, who was paraded along 22 others by the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corp (NSCDC) over the weekend, said he exchanged foodstuff for petrol. Among the suspects were eight Nigerians, seven Ghanaians, three Togolese and others from the Republic of Benin. The suspects were arrest-

We traded foodstuff for petrol, says suspect By Basirat Braimah

ed between January and this month around the high sea by the army, with stolen diesel, petrol and kerosene. Lagos State NSCDC Commandant Gabriel Abafi said six suspects were arrested with 65 drums of 250-litre diesel; 14, with 254 drums of 250 litres and 20 gallons of 25-litre petrol and three with 59 drums of 250 litres and 11

gallons of 50 litres of kerosene. He hailed the army for its courage. Abafi said: “Some were caught on the sea with fuel in sacks, polythene bags and more than two trailers. We shall give the exhibits to the Pipelines and Product Marketing Company (PPMC) to examine and then the court will rule on it.”

One of the suspects, Augustine Adukwe, 37, a boat driver, said he never knew the deal was illegal. “I was arrested at the shores. I really don’t know my offence. I was caught while collecting some products. I never knew it was illegal because I didn’t damage anything,” he said. A furious Ehimusan queried the rationale behind

14 held for tampering with electric poles

AGOS State Command of Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has paraded 14 persons, including a 30-year-old man, Yusuf Shittu, for allegedly tampering with electric poles and bypassing prepaid metres. Shittu, an electrician, who lives at 39, Governor Road in Ikotun, a Lagos suburb, said he was caught on a pole while trying to remove a piece of wire stretched across the road. He said: “I wasn’t trying to re-connect power. I only felt it was dangerous, if power was restored. We contributed some money to rent a ladder. But as I climbed the ladder, I was caught. I have never climbed a pole in my life. I only wanted to remove the wire that was stretched across the road. If I am pardoned, I won’t do such a thing again. “ NSCDC Commandant

their arrest. “Why should they arrest the poor? Why didn’t they arrest those who brought ship” to buy PMS (petrol)? If not because we had a little misunderstanding with the foreigners on board, we would have left the vicinity. We used what we had to get what we wanted. We gave the foreigners foodstuff in return for petrol. If the food stuff was more than the pet-

My husband is fetish, says woman •’I don’t want her to go’

said: “We established a surveillance team with the NSCDC officials because we can’t do it alone. Once you bypass a metre, it means you are consuming power free of charge. The money accrued to the company for us to re-invest by giving more power to anyone is being lost. Residents should stop bypassing their bills.”

RS Bunmi Adegunju, 35, has prayed the Alagbado Customary Court in Lagos, to dissolve her 16- year-old marriage, accusing her husband of battery. The petitioner, who lives at 1B, Idowu Close, Kola, Alagbado, a Lagos suburb, told the court that her husband, Taofeek, derived pleasure in beating her, adding that he is fetish. She said: “He brought home a live tortoise that walks around the house; he also brought home an ugly thing he calls “Esu” (devil). He pours oil on it and worships it daily. When he brought a statue home, it led to the mysterious death of our child. “I have nightmares and I

ing, I had joined them. “I decided to use Customs officer as a decoy because I used to go to Apapa, Ikeja, Idiroko offices of the Customs. I also go to Customs Training School in Ikeja to drink beer and pepper soup with my friends. “I bought the uniform and the rank for N5, 000. I first bought three stars (DSC); I have three wives but I sacked two because they were not intelligent and clever to my

taste. I have three names and operate with two names and the ranks.” Adekunle from Itaido village in Ekiti State said his role was to seek out victims. Galadima from Makoro village in Kano said: “I am an artist. I have account in the bank and the gang gave my account number to victims to pay in money. Benz acted as a foreigner based in London or America.

•Some of the suspects By Basirat Braimah

Gabriel Abafi described the act as economic sabotage, noting that end users of power were fond of reconnecting power after being disconnected for nonpayment. “They sidetrack the prepaid meters, so that they can have easy access to power. Most of them were caught

in the act. We were on surveillance at Isolo, Meiran and Abule Egba with officials of Ikeja Electric Distribution Company (IKEDC). Everything we do is solely for the progress of Nigerians,” he said. Commenting on the development, Pekun Adeyanju, Head, Communication and Strategy, IKEDC,

‘Fake’ Customs officer nabbed for fraud

‘FAKE’ Chief Superintendent of Customs (CSC), Raji Ramoni, has been arrested by operatives of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) of the Lagos State Police Command. Other members of his four-man gang are: Thomas Adekunle, 52, Ibrahim Galadima, 39 and Thomas Benz, 50. Sources said the suspects were arrested for duping a woman of N800, 000, under the pretence of selling her car on auction. She said, when her husband discovered she had fallen into the hands of a fourman fraud syndicate, he reported the care to the police. Ramoni, a native of Okene in Kogi State, said the desperation to feed his family led him into the illegal act. “I was working in Five Star extile Mill at Isolo, La-

rol, we put it on record for adding up on the next sale. That was my second time,” he said. Francis Olusegun, 42, also said they bought the products from foreign sailors in exchange for foodstuffs. “I repeatedly told the Navy officials that I wasn’t carrying PMS and I was told if they found out it were diesel, I’d be freed. But now, I am still here,” he said.

By Ebele Boniface

gos, between 1984 and 1988. I was sacked by an Indian for fighting him when he asked me why I damaged company machine. I have nine children. I was desperate to get something doing to feed my family,” he said. Raji said he used names, such as Shitu Musa and Yakubu Lawal, with the rank of Deputy Superintendent of Customs, depending on the job and the customs office they were going. He said: “I have been doing this work for a long time and had been arrested three times. The first was at Abuja, the second was at Zone 2 and this time, SARS Lagos State Police Command. We used brains not guns to collect money from victims. The rank is to enable victims believe us and

•The suspects

to get respect from all the law enforcement agents. “I joined this syndicate because of how my wife was treating me. I was going about looking for job to take care of my family when I met one Lateef Oshodi now late. He told me to bring N250, 000 so that he will give me $1.2 million. I also gave him money to buy chemical to wash the dollars for me. Before I realised what was happen-

By Basirat Braimah

am always scared whenever I get home. He beats me at will and does not provide for my upkeep.” Mrs Adegunju said any time she refuses to give her husband money on request, he beats her. “I left home about a month ago because I was sick and needed to take care of myself so that I won’t die young. Since my husband bought a crate of alcoholic drink for my father, he has been taking sides with him. “I don’t have any witness except God, I am tired of the marriage, I want dissolution and the custody of our children,” she said. However, Taofeek Adegunju, 40, a business man, denied ever beating his wife. “My wife is troublesome and does not listen to me. She harasses me in public and shouts at me. I have lost count of the number of times my wife slapped me. She once did it in the presence of my friend and I was ashamed. “I used to be chubby but I am now a shadow of myself because of her troubles. There was a time she left the house for almost three weeks, I took care of our children, bathed them and dropped them in school. Because of this, my business suffered because there was no one to leave the children with. I know I try as a father and husband. “It is true that I am fetish but it is just for my business. I don’t want to marry another woman, I want my wife back,” he pleaded. The marriage produced five children between ages 1 and 15. The court’s President, Mr Olubode Sekoni, told the couple to maintain the peace and adjourned the matter till February 26.

THE NATION MONDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2015

BUSINESS EXTRA

Etisalat builds capacity in telecoms via ETP T

HE introduction of the Etisalat Telecommunication Engineering Programme (ETEP) has brought growth to education. The Master’s programme at the Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria with two of the leading academic authorities on Telecommunications Engineering; Plymouth University in the United Kingdom (UK) and the Etisalat Academy in United Arab Emirate (UAE), and Huawei is expected to support graduate-specialists in telecommunications engineering. Analysts said the programme has boosted the sector, especially the Engineering discipline, which has been hampered by poor funding, dearth of quality teachers, defective curricular, poorly equipped laboratories and inadequate ICT environment. They insisted that though there are

By Collins Nweze

five universities accredited to offer telecommunications engineering at undergraduate level, the skills and talents are still in shortfall. Since its inception in 2013, the ETEP has helped in building technical know-how and local content, which are critical to the continued success of the telecom business. The ETEP has been empowering about 20 graduates yearly with capacity and expertise in excellently running the nation’s telecom sector. The pool of technology experts from the programme serve as manpower for Etisalat, Huawei and other companies in the telecom industry. The ETEP comes with an internship with Etisalat Nigeria, which offers students practical knowledge on the theories they have learnt in the classroom and laboratory. The students also have free and full access

to the global Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers e-library. One of the participants, Bello Habeeb, said: ‘’ETEP is an excellent programme, which would equip engineering graduates with the capacity and expertise in optimally staffing the telecommunications sector; and graduates from this programme would also serve as manpower to effectively steer the telecommunication industry, which has been tagged as the backbone of the new economy.” Another participant, Chuks Nzefili said the ETEP internship has helped bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge in the classroom and practical experience on the field. He said Etisalat Nigeria is building capacity and enabling the creation of resource persons in Telecoms Engineering. That is the best that can be done for a nation. Within the five years of its spon-

sorship of the programme, Etisalat has taken it upon itself to sponsor lecturers of ABU to undertake doctorate degrees in Telecommunication Engineering at the University of Plymouth in the UK, so that local expertise can be developed for the long term sustainability of the MSc Programme. Manager, Corporate & Social Responsibility, at Etisalat Nigeria, Oyetola Oduyemi, affirmed that the exercise has enriched its status, making it more attractive and relevant. “This will contribute to the department’s ability to afford the fees required for global affiliations and access to e-resources, which we currently bear,” he said. As a further proof of its unwavering commitment to the programme, the telecoms company recently sponsored the top three students from the first year of the ETEP programme to an all-expense paid

trip to the UAE for an intensive training at the Etisalat Academy, Dubai. This is a continuous commitment, and the top three graduating students each year will enjoy this opportunity. According to Oduyemi, the training at the Etisalat Academy was to reinforce the students’ practical knowledge of telecoms engineering and a way to provide them with a competitive edge. “At Etisalat, we believe that the right education has the potential to impact every aspect of life, so education remains central to our CSR interventions; this is why we sent the three best students from the Etisalat Telecommunications Engineering Programme class of 2014, to the Etisalat Academy in Dubai, to expand their horizons and give them further exposure to the cutting-edge technology driving the telecommunications industry,” he said.

Guinness announces 5% revenue rise

•From left: Head, Employee Services, First City Monument Bank (FCMB) Limited, Mr. Kolawole Amusa; Group Head, Central Processing Centre, Mr. Maroof Busari; Vice Principal, Modupe Cole Memorial Child Care and Treatment Home, Akoka in Lagos, Mrs. Adetoun Sadiq; one of the teachers of the Home, Mrs. Grace Efunwole; Team Lead, Corporate Social Responsibility and Sustainability of FCMB, Mrs. Temitayo Ade-Peters and Head, Treasury Operations, Ms. Doyin Dada, during a visit by the bank's staff to the Home in Lagos.

Risk management director discusses leadership

NEW book written by ‘Folakemi Fatogbe, director of Risk Management at the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), is giving so much to a world that continually needs quality leadership. The book, ‘Inspiring A Generation’, launched in Lagos, will make readers want to do something new, give someone an idea about what to do or create an inspiration for mankind. The motivational book recently launched in Lagos is woven around the election campaigns of President Barack Obama of the United States (US). The book uses President Obama’s historic game-changing election campaigns and journey to the White House as a means of inspiring readers to achieve their life dreams and aspirations irrespective of where they are and what they have. The book uses President Obama’s achievements to inspire readers, making them believe that they can achieve anything that they desire in life. The writer uses Obama as a role model of the ‘can do’ spirit. By bringing to the fore such a laudable role model of our time in a manner that most Nigerians and indeed other citizens of the world can identify with, Fatogbe is making her contribution towards addressing some of the societal problems that face countries today. For her, the improvement and progress of a nation, a community

By Alvin Afadama

and indeed a family must start with the active self-development and improvement of individuals. She believes that to put the world in order, the nation must first be put in order. Also, to put the nation in order, the family must also be put in order while to put the family in order, people’s personal lives must first be cultivated. The Lead Reviewer – Principal Partner at Olaniwun Ajayi, Dr. Konyin Ajayi (SAN) described the book as a masterpiece. For Chief Executive Officer, Standard Chartered Bank (Nig), Mrs Bola Adesola, the author was being modest in suggesting that the book would affect only one generation as she felt it would affect many generations. She agreed that ‘Inspiring A Generation’ is about change and encourages readers to be people of impact and conviction. A business man, Dr. Tunji Olowolafe said the book would allow for the emergence of other Obamas in Nigeria with capacity to support various sectors of the economy. Senator Babafemi Ojudu of Ekiti State described Nigeria as a country with a major inspiration deficit that would do well to have the inspiring messages of this book heard far and near. He observed that Nigerians is fortunate to have this book that is world class in terms of both its form and content. He also advised that he would be buying a significant number of copies even though he felt that he could

justifiably invoice the author, one of his constituents for services rendered. Ms Fatogbe, in sharing perspectives on why she wrote the book and in doing a mini recital from the book, brought to the fore some of her own life’s journey. The expression added a totally different and compelling dimension to the book presentation that the writer had actually ‘walked her talk’. Former CBN Deputy Governor Operations, Tunde Lemo advised the author to see the book as only her debut book which would be followed by many more. He said the author has a lot more to give not only to the CBN but also to the nation. Some of the guests at the book launch are Prince Julius AdeluyiAdelusi, Chairman – a former Minister of Health and the founder of Juli Pharmacy, renowned lawyer

•Fatogbe

and industrialist, Chris Okeke, South African based head of Africa’s Young Entrepreneurs, Ms. Ibada Ahmed and Chief Executive Officer, Chapel Hill Denham, Bolaji Balogun among others.

UINNESS Nigeria has announced its interim results for the six months which ended December 31, 2014. The company delivered a five per cent increase in revenue, while gross profit was up by two per cent. Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Guinness Nigeria Plc, Mr John O’Keeffe, said: “We experienced improvement in performance during the half as revenue for the second quarter showed a growth of 13 per cent compared to minus six per cent in the first quarter. The negative gearing due to mix drove a net sales growth of five per cent.” The results, which were released to the Nigerian Stock Exchange, also disclosed a marked increase in one off costs and administrative and marketing expenses. Finance and Strategy Director, Guinness Nigeria Plc Mr. Ron Plumridge, said: “Some of the key cost drivers over the period are the significant investments made to support our route to consumer optimisation and restructure our organisation and will support future growth. ‘’These strategic investments, which have been classified as one off costs in the income statement, have depressed operating profit for the half. In the second half, we plan to sustain volume growth but recognise there are significant external uncertainties we will need to continue to manage.” Chairman, Guinness Nigeria Plc, Mr. Babatunde Savage, said: “The Board is confident that we are making the right investments in the company to ensure our long term competitiveness, and continues to support the management in its efforts to build a business that can win in the market.”

UBA wins MasterCard cashless champions awards

HE United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc has emerged winner in three categories of the maiden edition of the MasterCard Cashless Champion Awards. The initiative was launched last October by global payments technology company, MasterCard, and is aimed at encouraging the adoption of cashless, hassle-free way of life. The bank won in three out of six categories namely: Cashless Transactions Champion which represents the highest increase between third quarter 2014 and fourth quarter 2014 in the number o f Point of Sale ( POS ) trans-

actions, Cashless Volume Champion for having achieved the highest growth in the value (Dollar or Naira) of POS transactions between third quarter 2014 and fourth quarter 2014, and Cashless Cross-border Champion for the best improvement in international acquired volumes by enabling all its merchant locations to accept international EMV Chip and PIN payment cards. UBA’s dominance in an exercise which received entries from other Nigerian banks reflects its strong play in e-banking, backed by consistent innovation

that continues to deliver superior, valuedriven offerings to its millions of customers. “This again affirms our commitment to driving the adoption of a cashless culture and is confirmation of our leadership in e-Banking in Africa” said Kennedy Uzoka, Deputy Managing Director, UBA Plc and Chief Executive Officer, UBA Africa. Speaking on the bank’s expansive eBanking reach, he said, “With thousands of POS and ATM terminals strategically deployed across Africa, the next UBA service point is just around the corner”.

THE NATION MONDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2015

THE NATION MONDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2015 USEFUL PHONE NUMBERS ON ANY EMERGENCY Council endorses the useful phone numbers submitted by the security agents for easy access in case of any emergency on the metropolitan roads. Accordingly, the general public may easily Contact KAROTA for: Breakdown of Vehicle(s), Traffic Congestion, Accidents, and Illegal/Wrong Parking to kindly Call KAROTA through the following numbers on – 08091626747. Similarly, the State Police Command could be contacted on – 08032419754, 08123821575. In addition, the State Fire Service can be contacted on – 07051246833, 08191778888.

189TH KANO STATE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL MEETING PREPARED BY COUNCIL AFFAIRS DIRECTORATE, OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY TO THE STATE GOVERNMENT, GOVERNMENT HOUSE, KANO.

ure, steady and with his sustained characteristic vigour, Governor Engr. Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, FNSE presided over the one hundred and eighty ninth (189th) sitting of the Kano State Executive Council on Thursday 19th February, 2015 (29 th Rabi’ul Thani, 1436AH). Typically, issues that center on the transformation of the lives of the citizenry in Kano State for the better were tabled for deliberation from ten (10) MDAs in atotal of thirty nine (39) memoranda amongst which twenty five (25) cutting across six (6) sectors were approved for execution with an expenditure of Six Hundred and Ninety Eight Million, Five Hundred and Fifty Four Thousand, Four Hundred and Thirty Naira, Fifty Eight Kobo (N698,554,430.58) covering nineteen (19) projects while the remaining six (6) are on policy issues as follows; 1. THE HEALTH SECTOR The current administration upholds that “Health is Wealth” which connotes that a healthy society is a wealthy one – cognizant to which commendable effort is dissipated towards the positive transformation of the Health Sector in all aspects and ramifications. The physical (infrastructural, equipment, materials, medical consumables); professional/personnel; etc. requirements are continually provided by the execution of series of approvals granted on projects/programmes/schemes under the Health Sector. Such include the following examples and more; • Renovation/repairs and upgrading of all categories of health care delivery facilities across Kano State such as the Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital; Muhammad Abdullahi Wase Specialist Hospital; Sir Sunusi Specialist Hospital; Hasiya Bayero Pediatric Hospital; Kano Dental Center; the Infectious Diseases Hospital (IDH); Cottage Hospital at Kwankwaso Town; the General Hospitals at Gaya, Kura, Yar’ Gaya, etc. • Establishment of Kano State Primary Health Care Board. • Establishment and Sustenance of the Kwankwasiyya Mobile Medical Outreach. • Continuous conduct of the polio plus days immunization programme. • Employment/deployment/training/retraining of relevantly trained health professionals, etc. In this vein, the State Executive Council approved the execution of four (4) memoranda under the Health Sector at its one hundred and eighty ninth (189th) sitting as follows; a ) Presentation on the Need to Pay the Monthly Salaries of the Newly Employed Doctors in the Dollar Currency or its Naira Equivalent to the Months’ Current Parallel Market Exchange Rate:It is pertinent to note that series of developmental policies aimed at improving the socio – economic wellbeing of the state citizens have been introduced by the current administration. Apart from sponsoring of large number of State Indigenous Youth to pursue education in the Health Sector, Government also goes further by employing expatriate (i.e. Egyptian Doctors) in order to train the young nurses which will go along way in boosting the health care delivery services in the State. It is against the background of the foregoing development, the expatriate through Ministry of Health requested for increase payment of their monthly salaries in line with the fluctuation in the exchange rate of a Dollar. Accordingly, Council considered and approved the increase in the salaries of the Egyptian Doctors. b) Request for Funds to Enable Purchase of Dental Health Technician Textbooks for the Accreditation of the Dental Department at the School of Health Technology, Kano:The contents of this memorandum notified members of Council that, the Dental Health Technician Registration Board of Nigeria recently paid accreditation visit to the School of Health Technology, Kano and drew attention of the authorities at the School to provide the necessary textbooks pending accreditation of the Dental Department. In line with the above, the office of the Secretary to the State Government endorsed this request from the Ministry of Health in the sum of N1,483,325.00 for the procurement of necessary textbooks to meet the accreditation criteria and presented it to Council for consideration. Accordingly, Council considered and approved the release of the requested sum for the commitments. c) Request for Funds to Reimbursement Expenditure Incurred to Contain Cholera Outbreak in Kalahadi Village, Gaya Local Government Council Area:This request from the Ministry of Health was endorsed by the office of the Secretary to the State Government and presented to Council for consideration. In a nutshell, Council was informed, through contents of this memorandum that, one hundred and fifty (150) people of different age groups were affected by the outbreak of the epidemic

disease (cholera) and five (5) amongst which died despite the commendable effort of the Ministry of Health which sourced funds to contain the situation to the tune of N2,277,300.00 which was requested for release as reimbursement. The incurred expenditure was; i. Provision of drugs and other consumables – N1,438,500.00. ii. Procurement of Laboratory Reagents – N338,800.00. iii. Supervision/Monitoring – N500,000.00. Accordingly, Council considered and approved as requested. d) Presentation of Report on the Conduct of Eye Surgeries (Cataract and Lid) Free of Charge in Some Selected Local Government Council Areas of Kano State:The Kano State Government (Ministry of Health) collaborates with the Health and Development Support Programme (HANDS) to conduct the cited commendable activity. Details were summarized and presented to Council for information as follows; i. Cataract Surgery – 760 people went through cataract surgery at three (3) Centers (Bichi, Kiru and Albasu). ii. Lid Surgery – 1,981 people at three (3) Centers benefited (Albasu, Shanono and Zakirai). iii. Refractive corrections – 65 people benefitted. iv. Management of other eye problems – 6,720 people benefitted. v. Referrals – 321 people. Council acknowledged the presentation appreciatively. 2. THE EMPOWERMENT SECTOR Empowering the citizenry in Kano State towards self actualization/ reliance is a cardinal preoccupation of the present administration under the humane leadership of Governor Engr. Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, FNSE. Series of approvals are continually granted for the execution of projects/schemes/programmes by a cross section of relevant MDAs under the Empowerment Sector which cut across all segments of the society in providing access to professional/ academic education locally and abroad; access to training for employable skills and take – off capital; access to capacity building for serving civil servants; access to support for the needy; etc. The number of beneficiaries who benefitted from the empowerment programmes of this administration is very commendable and impressive along the lines of which the State Executive Council approved the execution of twelve (12) more memoranda at its one hundred and eighty ninth (189th) sitting which can be sub – divided into three (3). Viz; provision of access to professional/academic education = 6; access to capacity building = 4; access to support for the needy = 2. Total = 12. Therefore; • Provision of Access Professional/Academic Education:i. Approval was granted for the release of the sum of N140,000.00 to enable the payment of registration fees in respect of five (5) Kano State Indigenous Students admitted into the School of Midwifery, Dambatta who were unable to pass the National Qualifying Examinations at the first attempt. The details presented from the Ministry Health and endorsed by the office of the Secretary to the State Government were considered. ii. The office of the Secretary to the State Government endorsed the request from the Scholarship Board for the release of the sum of N1,935,180.28 to facilitate refund of one way air ticket fare in respect of sixteen (16) amongst the 501 Kano State Indigenous Qualified Students sponsored for studies abroad. Details were summarized and presented as follows; Eleven (11) students returned from Malaysia = N1,362,863.17. One (1) student returned from Uganda = N89,132.00. Three (3) students returned from Jordan = N244,094.52. Two (2) students returned from China = N239,090.59. Accordingly, Council considered and approved the release of the stated sum of for the commitment. iii. Council approved the release of the sum of N212,600.00 to enable payment of re – issue and upgrade fee in respect of air tickets issued to two (2) expelled Kano State Indigenous Students sponsored for studies at International University of East Africa, Uganda for a one – year top – up degree under the supervision of the Kano State Ministry of Science and Technology. The details summarized and presented as follows were considered. Thus; Re – issue of tickets at N19,300.00 x 2 = N38,600.00. Re – issue and upgrade of seat at N87,000.00 x 2 = N174,000.00. iv. One hundred (100) additional Kano State Indigenous Qualified Students gained admission into Bells University of Technology, Otta, Ogun State. Council considered and approved the release of the sum of N123,000,000.00 in respect of their tuition fees and other charges for the 2014/2015 academic session. The details submitted from the Ministry of Higher Education were considered. v. Council approved the release of the sum of N4,500,000.00 requested by the Ministry of Higher Education to enable full affiliation/accreditation of the Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso College

Rabi’u Musa Kwankawaso of Advanced and Remedial Studies, Tudunwada. Details were summarized and presented as follows; N500,000.00 as affiliation fee. N1,500,000.00 as payment for conduct of mandatory resource visit by Members of the IJMB Governing Council to appraise the College. N2,500,000.00 as cost of accreditation. vi. Request for Funds to Enable the Payment of the Kano State Scholarship Students’ Bill for Spring and Fall 2014 Semester at American University of Nigeria, Yola:Itisonrecord that, the present administration is taking a giant stride in the area of education by sponsoring a large number of the State Indigenous Students to pursue both under and post graduate studies locally and abroad. It is in line with the noble policy, the Ministry of Higher Education through contents of this memorandum intimidated members of Council on the twenty four (24) State Indigenous Students sponsored to study at American University of Nigeria, Yola on agreed 20% discount to cover Spring and Fall 2015 Semester. The sum of N69,600,000.00 was requested for release to enable the settlement of the tuition fees and other charges in respect of the twenty four (24) sponsored students. Accordingly, Council considered and approved for the release of the stated sum for the commitments. •

Provision of Access to Capacity Building for Serving Civil Servants:i. The office of the Head of Civil Service notified Council that forty one (41) Midwives were recently posted to Kano in addition to the one hundred and nine (109) already present and serving in the State. Essentially, the Rural Posting Incentive Allowances (RPIA) in respect of the forty one (41) newly posted Midwives for five (5) months (October, 2014 to February, 2015) to the tune of N4,100,000.00 was approved for release. Further, Council approved the Standing Order for the release of N20,000.00 monthly with effect from March, 2015 to each of the newly posted Midwives. ii. Approval was granted for the release of the sum of N1,985,000.00 to enable provision of the three (3) items required to enable conduct of the first (1 st ) Batch 2015 Civil Service Examination (CSE) for three hundred and twenty (320) participants of ten (10) cadres. The details presented from the office of the Head of Civil Service were considered. iii. Council appreciatively acknowledged the presentation from the office of the Head of Civil Service that ten (10) participants are nominated from the State Civil Service for the 2014/2015 Indian Technical Cooperation (ITEC) Courses. Invitations for four (4) of the nominees are already available while the remaining six (6) are expected soon. iv. The brief presented on a request from the Kaduna State Government, through the Kano State Ministry of Works, Housing and Transport to the Kano State Government to grant approval for collaboration between the two (2) parties in the establishment of a Transportation Regulatory Agency such as KAROTA in Kaduna State as was copied from Kano State by Zamfara State, was considered and approved for execution. In a related development, it is pertinent to note that several laudable policies initiated by the present administration were copied by other States such as Banning of Street Begging, Auren Zawarawa (Mass Widow Wedding), Banning of Achaba, etc. • Provision of Support to the Needy:Council approved the release of the sum of N8,630,000.00 requested by the Kano State Hisbah Board to enable payment of three (3) months requirements in respect of the enforcement of the Law banning street begging in the State. The summarized details below were considered. S/N PROFILE AMOUNT (N) i. Fuelling of operational vehicles 1,800,000.00 ii. Allowances to 100 Corps 4,500,000.00 iii. Allowances To Four (4) Chairmen Of Disabled Association 240,000.00 iv. Allowances to four (4) Disabled Chieftains 240,000.00 v. Repatriation 900,000.00 vi. Feeding of apprehended beggars 500,000.00 vii. Documentation 450,000.00 TOTAL 8,630,000.00 In appreciation of the laudable performance of Kano Pillars Football Club for winning the Premier League three (3) times sequentially this gives the club opportunity to participate in the

THE NATION MONDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2015 Continental Championship. All these were possible due to the support given to the club by the current administration towards sustaining sporting activities in the State. In order to sustain the tempo, approval was granted for the release of the sum of N323,003,390.00 in support of the Kano Pillars Football Club to participate in the 2014/2015 Nigeria Premier Football League. Details summarized to four (4) items were considered from the Ministry of Information, Internal Affairs, Youths, Sports and Culture. 3. THE INFRASTRUCTURAL DEVELOPMENT/ MAINTENANCE SECTOR General performance/achievements recorded by the present administration in the State are heralded by the physical developmental transformation attained within the shortest possible time of three (3) years plus nine (9) months. Series of approvals granted for the execution of projects/ schemes/programmes related to the provision and maintenance of qualitative infrastructure for use by the good people of Kano State ensure this across sectors. For example, schools/classrooms are continually built/renovated as part of the essential requirements of the education sector; roads/related structures are continually constructed/renovated as cardinal requirements of the transportation sector; Government Offices/Secretariats are continually renovated/maintained as essential requirements of the administrative sector; hospitals/health facilities continually constructed/renovated/upgraded as part of the essential requirements of the health sector; vehicles, machineries, equipment, tools, materials and general consumables provided across all sectors among the essential requirements; etc. In fact, the achievements recorded by the performances in the infrastructural development/maintenance sector stand out as beacon and indelible signature of the commendable Legacy of the present administration under which an unprecedented copious pace is set vehemently calling for continuity cognizant to which the Kano State Executive Council approved the execution of six (6) more memoranda under the infrastructural development/maintenance sector at its one hundred and eighty ninth (189th) sitting which can be sub – divided into two (2). Viz; roads/related structures = 3; public utilities = 3. Thus; • PROVISION OF ROADS/RELATED STRUCTURES:a. Request for Funds to Enable Provision of Road Marking Paints for Nine (9) Additional Roads in Kano Metropolis:The Ministry of Works, Housing and Transport endorsed this request from KAROTA and submitted it to Council for consideration. Nine (9) Metropolitan Roads were identified which include Maiduguri Road; Ibrahim Dabo Road; BUK Road; Ibrahim Taiwo Road; Katsina Road; Airport Road; Emirs Palace Road; Sabon Titi Mandawari Road and Aminu Kano Way. Council appraised the request for funds to procure paint (Black/ white) and petrol/materials and granted approval for the release of the trimmed sum of N20,000,000.00 for the stated purpose. b. Request for Funds to Enable Maintenance and Replacement of Damaged Crash Barriers along Katsina Road:Crash barriers provide relief to various road users and those available along Katsina Road were identified to be in urgent need for repairs and replacements at many locations for which the Ministry of Works, Housing and Transport submitted this request for the release of the sum of N3,190,935.30 to enable execution of the required repairs and replacements. Council noted, considered and approved as requested. c. Request for Funds to Enable Payment of Compensation for Thirty (30) Properties Affected by the Construction of Kabuga Underpass Way Project (Phase II):The contents of this memorandum intimidated members of Council to note that, the construction of Kabuga Underpass Way Project is one out of the numerous developmental projects initiated by the present administration aimed at improving quality of life, transformation, expansion, decongestion and beautification of roads in the State as well as boosting the socio – economic wellbeing of the citizenry. In line with this, the Ministry of Land and Physical Planning conducted a compensation valuation exercise at the site of the project where thirty (30) properties were identified as affected by the construction Project (Phase II) and estimated to cost the sum of N107,482,650.00. Accordingly, Council noted, considered and approved the release of the requested sum for the stated purpose. • PROVISION OF PUBLIC UTILITIES:a. Presentation on the Need to Sanitize All Segments of Commercial Transport Operations in Kano State to Enhance Security and Accelerate Revenue Generation at No Cost to Government:This presentation was sequel to an earlier one based on which all operators of commercial vehicles (Buses, Taxis and Trucks) agreed to be inscribed with side numbering and security registration. Such an exercise will enable commencement of the collection of daily operation permits with a predetermined sharing formula. Two cardinal prayers were forwarded to Council for consideration on the issue. Thus; • Council to consider and approve organization/sanitization of all segments of commercial vehicle operations in Kano State to enhance security, accelerate revenue generation and the signing of agreement between the State Government and a named Consultant. • Council to consider and approve the commencement of the collections of daily operation permits with a sharing formula of 35% to the State Government; 60% to the Consultant and 5% to the Transport Unions. Council acknowledged the presentation and approved execution of the two (2) prayers forwarded on the issue.

b. Request for Funds to Enable Procurement of Fifty Seven (57) Scanners (Carriage) for Use in Kwankwasiyya Girl – Child Initiative Buses:Realities of the present day instigated authorities at the Kano State Ministry of Education to submit this request endorsed by the office of the Secretary to the State Government and presented to Council for consideration. Such effort will enhance operations of the Corporate Security Guards recently deployed to ensure security in the buses. The fifty seven (57) scanners are estimated to cost the sum of N632,700.00 at the Contractual sum of N11,100.00 each which was requested for release. Council noted, considered and approved as requested. c. Request for Funds to Enable Replacement of Transmission Equipment at Abubakar Rimi Television (ARTV) Corporation, Kano:This request from the Ministry of Information, Internal Affairs, Youths, Sports and Culture was endorsed by the office of the Secretary to the State Government and presented to Council for consideration. Reportedly, the stated transmission equipment was damaged during the conduct of an official activity. Details of the replacement requirements were summarized and presented as follows; S/N DAMAGED EQUIPMENT COST (N) i. High Base Mount 2,800,000.00 ii. Bull TX/TX Feed Horn 1,750,000.00 iii. Windscreen (Front) and Side Mirror 26,000.00 iv. Three (3) Tripod Stand 375,000.00 5,000.00 v. 3 rdGenerator Tiers vi. Camera Cables/Connectors Cat 250,000.00 TOTAL 5,206,000.00 As such, Council was requested to approve for the release of the sum of N5,206,000.00 to enable replacement of the stated transmission equipment at the ARTV Corporation, Kano. Accordingly, Council noted, considered and approved as requested. 4. THE INFORMATION/COMMUNICATION SECTOR This sector is the capable image maker of the present administration and documents all activities of the Government for posterity. In other words, it is a reliable lieutenant and right – hand of the Government. As such, the sector is carried along in all activities of the present administration attestation to which the Kano State Executive Council approved the execution of one (1) memorandum under the sector at its one hundred and eighty ninth (189th) sitting. Thus; Request for Funds to Enable Production of Thirty Six Thousand (36,000) Copies of 2015 Official Gazette:This routine request from the Government Printing Press was endorsed by the office of the Secretary to the State Government and presented to Council for consideration. Details on the requirements estimated to cost the sum of N5,745,000.00 which was requested for release were presented to Council for consideration as per table below; S/N i. ii. iii.

QTY 24 480 240

ITEMS RATE (N) PRICE (N) Packet of Laser Film 6,500.00 156,000.00 Plates 1,250.00 600,000.00 Ream of 20x30 Bond Papers (80gsm) 8,000.00 1,920,000.00 iv. 480 Impressions 1,500.00 720,000.00 v. 480 Finishing 1,500.00 720,000.00 vi. 6 5 White A4 Printed Envelops 12,000.00 780,000.00 vii. 5 0 Address Stickers 12,000.00 600,000.00 viii. 6 0 Production of Half Yearly Bound Volume of Laws for all Members of the State Executive Council 3,500.00 210,000.00 ix. Distribution/Month 39,000.00 TOTAL 5,745,000.00 Council noted, considered and approved as requested. 5. THE ADMINISTRATIVE SECTOR This sector regulates, smoothens and facilitates efficient function of governance by employing/deploying relevantly trained personnel into the public service. Council approved execution only one (1) memoranda under the administrative sector at its one hundred and eighty ninth (189th) sitting as follows; a) Presentation of Brief on the Implementation of First (1st) and Second (2nd) Interim Reports of the Staff Screening and Verification Committee:It could be recalled that, upon inception, the present administration constituted a Committee for screening and verification of the State Civil Servant aimed at articulating the actual number of workforce in the State with a view to ensuring proper utilization of public resources. In line with above, the office of the State Head of Civil Service submitted this brief notifying Council of the implementation of first (1st) and second (2nd) Interim Reports of the Staff Screening and Verification Committee. Essentially, Council was notified, through contents of this memorandum that, the sixty six (66) MDAs affected in the first (1st) and second (2nd) (40 and 26 respectively) were instructed to implement the decisions as they affect their staff and submit reports confirming full implementation. Full compliance was reported. Meanwhile, the third (3rd) Interim Report of the Committee comprising fourteen (14) Zones under the KSSSMB was referred to the Board for immediate implementation along with the instruction to submit report of full compliance within two (2) weeks (evidence inclusive).

The presentation was appreciatively acknowledged. 6. THE FINANCE SECTOR This sector provides the energy that powers the performance of the present administration by prudent provision of the required funds for the execution of all approved projects/schemes/ programmes. The commendable expertise displayed by this sector prompted the present administration to venture into the establishment of thirty seven (37) Microfinance Banks across Kano State in collaboration with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). Unfortunate developments in running all the thirty seven (37) established Microfinance Banks prompted Council to approve the execution of one memorandum under the finance sector at its one hundred and eighty ninth (189th) sitting as follows; Request for Funds to Enable External Auditing of the Thirty Seven (37) Established Microfinance Banks in Kano State:The Director General endorsed this request from the Board of Directors of the Kano State Microfinance Banks Agency and presented it for consideration by Council. Details on the plausible reasons and genesis of the issues that instigated submission of the cited request were submitted along with request for the release of the sum of N15,000,000.00 to enable External Auditing of all the thirty seven (37) established Microfinance Banks by an established reliable named firm of Chartered Accountants. Approval was granted as requested since the endeavor is in line with the Public Accountability Policy of the present administration.

UPDATE ON ACTIVITIES AT THE 189TH KANO STATE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL SITTING 1.

GOVERNOR’S OFFICIAL VISIT TO TETFUND OFFICE, ABUJA

Council noted with delight the grand visit by Governor Engr. Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, FNSE and his entourage to TETFUND office in Abuja where he met and discussed with the Chairman, Executive Secretary and other senior Staff of the organization. The Governor commended them towards their support to the newly established Northwest University, Kano University of Technology Wudil as well as other Tertiary Institutions in the State. Accordingly, the Chairman of TETFUND assured the Fund’s continued support to the development of the Institutions. 2.

COMMISSIONING OF THE NEW WATER BOARD OFFICE HEADQUARTER NAMED AFTER ENGR. ABDULAZEEZ UMAR

Council noted the successful commissioning of the new office building for Kano State Water Board located at Kofar Nassarawa within the Metropolitan city by former Managing Director of the Agency. The ceremony was supervised by His Excellency, Governor Engr. Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, FNSE on 13th February, 2015. In a related development, the building was named after the former Managing Director of the Agency in person of Engr. Abdul’azeez Umar. 3.

GRADUATION CEREMONY OF 500 WOMEN TRAINED ON HOME BASED TRADES, 150 TRADE CERTIFICATE TRAINEES, AGOA 50 TRAINEES AND 200 TRAINED ON FIRE PREVENTION IN MARKETS

Council noted the successful graduation ceremony of the following empowerment programmes; •

Five hundred (500) women trained for the period of four (4) months on home based trades and empowered with N20,000.00 each.

•

One hundred and fifty (150) participants trained for the period of four (4) months on various trades certificate and empowered with N150,000.00 each.

•

Fifty (50) participants trained on AGOA and empowered with training packages of N30,000.00 each.

•

2 – Tock Solution Company trained two hundred (200) participants on fire prevention & control and posted them to the three (3) markets in the State.

SIGNED: HON. COMMISSIONER, INFORMATION, INTERNAL AFFAIRS, YOUTH, SPORTS & CULTURE, KANO STATE

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2015 TRUTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM

VOL 10 NO 3134

TODAY IN THE NATION ‘Perhaps it is in the interest of the collective memory to suspend remembrance. This is a time for the people to earnestly reimagine the country’s leadership, not dwelling upon Buhari’s past in power but focusing on his present and unchanging opposition to corruption, which is a blight on the land’ FEMI MACAULAY

COMMENT & DEB ATE EBA

URING the June 12 saga, my former editor and once dean of Nigeria’s columnists, Lewis Obi, wrote an unforgettable piece. He titled the article “The Caliphate’s Army,” and he posited that the army had held democracy and Nigeria spellbound because it belonged to the heirs of the Sokoto Caliphate. The Hausa-Fulani elite, that is. Recent events compelled me to contemplated Obi’s thesis, and I tried to cast the army of the June 12 era to the present. In the June 12 era, the Hausa-Fulani elite was smug, peacocky and ruthless, even in spite of the tempests of protests and resistance. They supposedly held power and controlled the army, including the puffy officers. Today, the commander-in-chief and the chief of army staff are from the same tribe, and it is not Hausa-Fulani. The proverbial table has turned, and the most vociferous critics are from the Hausa-Fulani stock, who have been accused of looking back to their glory days with a royal sense of entitlement. But this is not a Nigerian army. It is an army of carpetbaggers. It is because we do not have an army born and bred Nigerian. It is fragile like an orphan. Anyone can own it today, and another tomorrow. That was the thought that overwhelmed me when I read the interview in this newspaper last week with Captain Sagir Koli. He unveiled to our eyes the tale of the Ekiti Election, and how a general (Aliyu Momoh), a buffoon politician now governor (Ayo Fayose ), a businessman (Chris Uba ), the presidency (that implies Goodluck Jonathan) and a raft of Yoruba renegades like Adesiyan and Obanikoro, sat to rig the Ekiti polls. No matter what may have been written about the so-called stomach infrastructure, no one can say with absolute certainty that Fayose won the election. Some have said Fayose won given the acclamation on the streets. If an election is close, that is always a possibility. When soldiers take over polling stations, muzzle the opposition and allow the politicians a free rein, anything is possible. When the army holds sway, the civilian is at its mercy. We may now recall the takeaways of the governor of example, Babatunde Raji Fashola, SAN, in which he asked basic questions. One of them was, how could Fayemi have lost in all local governments? It reminds me of the pamphlet titled Commonsense by Thomas Paine during the American Revolution. Captain Koli’s core revelations, not denied by anyone, only show how the army has been captured by the cabal in power. So, is it still the caliphate’s army? Not today. It is Jonathan’s army and whomever he puts in charge, including Uba who cruised brazenly into Ekiti with officers while elected governors were shut out. I recall some lines from the best war novel ever, All Quiet on the Western Front, by Erich Maria Remarque. “We came to realize – first with astonishment, then bitterness, and finally indifference – that intellect ap-

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IN TOUCH

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•Winner, Informed Commentary (DAME)

Whose army?

•Dr. Jonathan

parently wasn’t the most important thing… not ideas; but the system; not freedom, but the drill. We had joined up with enthusiasm and with goodwill; but they did everything to knock that out of us.” Those lines must mark the disillusionment of Captain Koli. He had the naïve dignity of an officer. He still soared with the ideals of soldiery. Reality choked him into hiding. He should have read the history of the army. Some societies have army with a state, while others have state with an army. The western societies often began with the elite and they formed militias, including the United States. Once the states are established, the military is canonized as an integral part of society. It marked the transition from feudal to capitalist democracy. The rule of law subjected everything and everybody under the state. Hence no army officer can defy his president and no president can defy the law. Since the law is based on higher values, no group or individual can manipulate the law at the expense of the higher social mores. That was how the developed societies were formed. Even in Ancient Greece and Rome, where all citizens were soldiers, everyone had a sacred sense of their responsibilities. Tensions have existed between the ci-

vilian authorities and their generals, but the civilian leader prevailed only within the social values. Lincoln and Macllelan, Churchill and Montgomery, Truman and macArthur. Once al Haig challenged Reagan, and the president proclaimed, “I’m in charge here,” before firing the general. Not hanky-panky of the sort we see today with the service chiefs. In 19th century Europe, however, following the hurly burly of the French revolution, some societies, especially Germany under Bismarck and Austria under Metternich, had armies with states. That martial ardour gave us two world carnages – First and Second World Wars - and today they have tucked the bloodthirsty excesses under the clear-eyed vigilance of the rule of law. Armies are made to defend societies against external enemies. In West Africa, our soldiers are rooted in the psychology of putting down internal rebellion. The military under the socalled West African Frontier Force in British colonies or Senegalese Sharp Shooters in French ensured that after independence, the soldiers and police did not belong to the country but those who formed them. So when the colonial masters left, the military fell into the hands of the nationalist elite, the politicians, who became the new leaders. Just as civil servants, teachers, city dwellers felt some disconnect with the new state, so did the army. W all inherited a post-colonial society. The state was too artificial to belong to anyone.

Tribes and tongues differed because there was no brotherhood. Without brotherhood, bonds failed. The only bond – that is, the state - was abstract and distant. Consequently, the army in spite of its discipline and name did not segue into its classic role in a modern state. Tribal elites in the cloaks of politicians scrambled for control. We witnessed the struggle in the First Republic between the Hausa-Fulani and the Igbo, and that precipitated a 30-month civil war. Since the HausaFulani prevailed, they ruled the nation until June 12, 1993, which inspired Obi’s seminal piece. So, this is not a state with an army. Neither is it an army with a state. Philosophers speak of strong and weak states. Ours is often described as weak. It is wrong language. We don’t have a Nigerian state yet. We have what Italian philosopher Antonio Gramsci calls the political society. Even soldiers when in power acted more like politicians. We have the politician’s army. The state is so artificial that it exists in names, symbolisms, protocols and documents; a state in body but not in spirit. That explains why we even debate whether soldiers should play a role in elections, even when the constitution forbids it and a judge frowns at it. An army denies its former leader’s qualifications because it has a new loyalty. Boko Haram could be born in Nigeria because politicians nurtured it in its infancy. The militancy in the Niger Delta also fattened on politicians. Every politician sees force as a quality of being. He casts the military in his own image. This is a stylized Hobbesian state. So, why was it a surprise that the service chiefs pitched their tents with Jonathan over putting off the polls? It is because we still don’t know the historic disconnect between the army and the artificial state of Nigeria. It is not the army alone, though. Civil servants pillage resources because they don’t feel they are destroying their own societies. That partly accounts for why students damage their labs during riots. The national conference held recently only recapitulated all we have said from day one in this country. We need a people’s constitution that will define the roles of the army, the law maker, the teacher, the parent, the use of resources, the schools, etc. After that, the army can fully play its role as a legitimate defender of the country, and not a tool of a section of the political elite.

Jonathan and Southwest

HE president is doing it late in the day. He meets with the wrong people and wants the right results. He just wasted his southwest trip. The Yoruba know who love them. The president is not one of them. Doing well by a people is not about cabinet appointments. Even at that, he gave the Yoruba scant and subordinate posts in the past four years. He did not do any cardinal project in Yorubaland. He hangs out with infidels like buffoon governor Fayose, the whitlow of the west, Mimic Mimiko, and a host of renegades and he thinks he is making inroads. Even he admitted he did not do anything for his own people. That is why he only promises. Hence Gov. Amaechi calls him, “I will do President.” Yoruba calls his tour, “Igba yi laaro.” Late in the day.

•Hardball is not the opinion of HARDBALL the columnist featured above AST week, Villascope, the in-house 12 reasons Jonathan deserves rejection journal of the Aso Rock Villa listed a dozen reasons why President

Goodluck Jonathan deserves re-election. Well dear reader, let us ignore the confounding shallowness of the claims and dissect them together, one at a time to determine if this president actually deserves a day longer in office. One: Road construction is first on the list. Their major showpiece here is the refurbished portion of Benin-Ore road. This government never managed to complete any road from start to finish in six years. They lie about Onitsha-Owerri road which was about 90 per cent completed by the Obasanjo government. The East-West road has remained an albatross; Lagos-Ibadan Express is a non-starter and the Second Niger Bridge was a forgotten promise until a few weeks ago. On account of roads therefore, Hardball will not return Jonathan. Two: Railway rehabilitation is flaunted and one wonders whether it is the same antiquated and chugging coaches one often finds passengers sit on their roof? One hears it is sheer torture making any journey in them across the country. Sorry, no serious

country would refer to those things as trains in this age. Three: Re-modeling of airports. Yes, airports were remodeled but what quality? At what cost? Four: Transformed agriculture sector. This is the biggest scam of the Jonathan government. They said they gave ten million farmers mobile phones for accessing fertilizer. Hmn? The fraud called rice fund, cassava bread fund among others are well kept secret of billion naira sluice funds… Five: Increased access to education. Just because about ten hurriedly-hung universities have been established overnight does not mean access has been increased. What is the percentage of the increase? Six: Access to housing. Where are the houses built? By who and for whom? When President Shehu Shagari built houses those days, we all saw them. It is wicked to pass off posh private estates for public housing. Seven: Improved power supply. Dear reader you know this is a blatant lie. They

just handed our facilities to their cronies and we suffer more and pay more now than the PHCN days. Eight: Improved water supply. Where? What really does the Ministry of Water Resources do? Why don’t they just scrap it? Nine: Better health facilities. Where? With strikes in the health service all the time? Ten: Reformed security infrastructure. Dear reader you know this is a big lie. For instance you sabi our police well, well now? And you know that Niger, Chad and Cameroun are currently helping big brother, Nigeria. Eleven: Increased Nigerians’ participation in downstream oil sector. Lie, IOCs still control 97 percent of the sector. Friends of government are only hijacking the facilities the IOCs are divesting from. Twelve: Economic transformation: Haba! With our naira trading at N215 to a dollar? With budget not passed in February…? Why, just because this government has lost touch with reality does not mean the entire populace is so afflicted. Let’s vote Jonathan out before it’s too late.

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