July 01, 2013

Nigeria’s widest circulating newspaper

11 burnt to death in Ibadan road crash

NEWS

Page 8

•Victims on way to religious event

Cash-less policy for Ogun, others NEWS Page 6

•Scheme also for Abuja today

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VOL. 8, NO. 2533 MONDAY, JULY 1, 2013

TR UTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM TRUTH

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•OBAMA PLEDGES $7B FOR POWER IN NIGERIA, SIX OTHERS P81

Akure prison bombed Gunmen kill two 175 inmates freed

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From Damisi Ojo, Akure

O fewer than 175 inmates of the Olokuta Maximum Security Prison in Akure, the Ondo State capital, have been set free in an unprecedented attack on the facility.

The attack, which took place at about 12.05 am, was launched by a gang of unknown gunmen.

The gunmen shot dead two civilians and used explosives to break into the prison.

They shot sporadically into the air to scare away prison officials before breaking the walls of the facility.

They reportedly entered the prison yard after breaking the keys.

“The unknown gunmen numbering over 20 came at about midnight into the Olokuta prison through the main gate after using dynamite,” Prison Comptroller Tunde Olayiwola told Reuters.

“The gunmen shot and killed two people while trying to get in ... Some of the escaped prisoners have been re-arrested,” Olayiwola said, adding that some prison staff were injured in a gun battle and were receiving treatment.

The gunmen were said to have attempted to dismantle the main gate into the prison,

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Continued on page 4

The unknown gunmen numbering over 20 came at about midnight into the Olokuta prison through the main gate after using dynamite...The gunmen shot and killed two people while trying to get in...

•SCENE OF HORR OR: The remains of a car which hit a stationary vehicle on Airport Road in Lagos...last night HORROR:

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Two feared dead in Lagos airport road crash

’ JTF kills 50 Boko

Delta Senator Ewherido dies at 50

Haram suspects

By Our Reporters

•Women in veil nabbed with rifles

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HE end came at the weekend for about 50 suspected Boko Haram members in Borno, one of the three states under a state of emergency.

They were killed by the Joint Task Force after a raid of Zabarmari ward in Jere Local Government Area of Maiduguri .

Three suspected terrorists on their way to Jigawa state to unleash terror were arrested at Borno Express

PHOTO: ISAAC AYODELE

Motor Park on Saturday by volunteered youths, a.k.a Civilian JTF, a security source claimed yesterday.

Zabarmari, according to the source, is one of the black spots where Boko Haram operates in Maiduguri.

The source said: “At the weekend, we received intelligence report that Boko Haram terrorists regrouped and were residing/ hiding in Zabarmari ward. We mobilContinued on page 4

S •Chairman, Mainstreet Bank, Mallam Falalu Bello, reading his address during the bank’s first Annual General Meeting (AGM) at the Federal Palace Hotel, Lagos... at the weekend. With him are: GMD/ CEO Faith Tuedor-Matthews (left) and acting Company Secretary Tayo Ogunbanjo

ENATOR Pius Akpo Ewherido, the only Democratic Peoples Party (DPP) senator, died yesterday at the National Hospital in Abuja. He was 50.

Sources said the late Ewherido died after battling stroke for some days.

It was gathered that the Ewu, Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State-born legislator, was rushed to the hospiContinued on page 4

•EX-EAGLES STAR OLIHA IS DEAD P20 •NUPENG BEGINS STRIKE TODAY P81

THE NATION MONDAY, JULY 1, 2013

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NEWS

Nigeria’s move •Chairman, Brass LNG Ltd Dr. Jackson GaiusObaseki (second right) speaking at a send-off party for former General Manager Dr. Joao DeOliveira (left) in Lagos... With them are Mrs. Oliveira (second right) and Dr. Maikanti Baru.

Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is a powerful political tool — but it hides more than it reveals. Mail & Guardian examines Nigeria’s quest to take over the position of Africa’s biggest economy from South Africa using the GDP baseline adjustment

S • Managing Director/CEO , Osun State Investment Company Ltd (OSCIL) Mr Bola Oyebamiji (second left); Senior Manager, Bulk Purchase Mr Ganiyu Owolawi (right), Assistant-General Manager, Consultancy and Training MrsHarriet Amale (left); and Regional Sales Manager, Nestle Nigeria Ltd Mr Dayo Adekoya during the presentation of Outstanding Performance star prize of Tata Pickup van by Nestle to OSIC in Osogbo.

•Managing Director, Pernod Ricard Nigeria Mr Dariusz Opierowiec (left) addressing reporters at the presentation of Top 100 men in Nigeria in Lagos... With him are Brand Manager Mr Samuel Odesanya and Public Relations Officer Pernod Ricard Nigeria Mrs Onah Nwachukwu.

PHOTO: NIYI ADENIRAN

•President, Entrepreneurs' Organisation Nigeria (EON) Mr. Ayodeji Shittu (left), Chairman Mrs. Funmi Babington-Ashaye, E O Certified Global Trainer Julia Langkaehr and EON Chairman, Communication Dele Agekameh, at the organisation’s preBoard summit dinner.

INCE 2012, the government of Nigeria has been working to revise the calculation of economic performance with a view to producing new measures for its gross domestic product (GDP). The central goal of this reform is to update the so-called base year, which is the benchmark for all calculations used in computing the GDP of a nation.

The base year is of critical importance as it determines the year in which prices are held constant, (which enables statisticians to distinguish economic growth from inflation), the weighing of each economic sector with respect to the whole economy and, crucially, the type of data that is included in the final calculation.

Although most higher income countries revise their base year every five years in order to account for changes in the nature and shape of their economies, the majority of lowto middle-income countries do so more sporadically, as they lack the technical resources to overhaul the national income accounts at regular intervals.

Thus far, Nigeria has been no exception and its latest revision dates back to 1990, which means that some booming sectors such as information communications technology and entertainment (especially the Nollywood film industry) are systematically undercounted in official statistics. But what may appear to be a mere statistical endeavour may easily trigger a political earthquake in Africa, with repercussions on traditional power balances throughout the continent.

Most estimates suggest that, as a result of the revisions, Nigeria’s GDP may increase by up to 40% in nominal terms, which means that the West African powerhouse would overtake South Africa as the continent’s largest economy in 2014. Similar leaps have happened in the past. In 2010, GDP revisions elevated Ghana to the status of a middle-income country thanks to a sudden 60% jump in nominal growth. In Turkey, the rebasing of GDP produced a 30% increase in 2008.

As I show in my latest book, Gross Domestic Problem: The Politics behind the World’s Most Powerful Number, GDP is a powerful political tool. The most important global governance institutions, from the G8 to the G20, are based on GDP credentials. Thus far, South Africa has been

•Jonathan

the only African country represented in the G20 on the grounds of the scale of its economy.

The Nigerian question What will happen if Nigeria claims this status? Would it affect South Africa’s membership of the Brics, and would Nigeria become the preferred counterpart of Brazil, Russia, India and China? There are many who believe Nigeria’s overtaking of South Africa would produce significant effects in the governance structures of the continent.

In the past few years, Nigerian politicians have become increasingly assertive with respect to their role in the continent and they wait for the GDP revisions to do the trick. Several pundits already see the West African giant as the new continental leader.

Arguably, this GDP battle may ruffle some feathers in Pretoria, where policymakers fear their country may lose its traditional crown as leader of the African continent in world politics.

But the GDP battle hides more than it reveals. This is because GDP is a very misleading measure of economic performance, let alone social and political progress. Neither Nigeria nor South Africa is a healthy economy.

For many reasons, however, the former is far worse than the latter, and the whole continent would be much worse off if Lagos were to replace Johannesburg as Africa’s economic hub.

Both South Africa and Nigeria are among the least sustainable economies in the world. According to the World Bank, the depletion of non-renewable energy in Nigeria accounted for about 25% of its GDP in 2013.

Decline in natural resources South Africa is Africa’s most polluting country and the 13th worst emitter of carbon dioxide in the world.

According to the United Nations Development Programme, both South Africa and Nigeria have experienced a significant decline in natural resources since 1990. Although these countries enjoy relatively large pools of fossil fuels, their reliance on energy-intensive economic growth

THE NATION MONDAY, JULY 1, 2013

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NEWS

ve to become Africa’s biggest economy ‘

In most areas, Nigeria has been faring much worse than South Africa. The Inclusive Wealth Index (IWI) published by the UN measures the growth of produced capital (for example, GDP) against the stocks of natural resources that are depleted in the process. For the IWI, Nigeria is by far the worst performing country.

•Zuma

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•Finance Minister Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala

Nigeria as Africa’s new investors’ haven

HE recent UN World Report indicated that Nigeria recorded great improvement in Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in

2012.

The report put FDI flow into the country in 2012 at 8.9 billion U.S. dollars, compared with the 6.1 billion U.S. dollars recorded in 2010.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr Olugbenga Ashiru, who spoke at the ongoing Ministerial Platform in Abuja, attributed the increase to the strengthening of economic diplomacy by President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration.

“The inflow of these investments had effect on the Transformation Agenda of President Goodluck Jonathan in supporting the economic programme of the government,’’ he said.

Ashiru stressed that China, U.S., Britain, Germany, South Africa and some other countries had formed strategic partnerships with Nigeria in investments in power, wholesale trade and manufacturing.

“For instance, the General Electric Company of U.S. is investing over 1 billion U.S. dollars in the construction of a factory in Calabar, to manufacture gas turbines for the power sector, not just for Nigeria, but also for Africa.

“The factory will employ over 2,500 skilled workers and an equal number of unskilled workers, with wealth creation in the added value chain.

“Also, Procter and Gamble has begun the construction of a factory in Agbara, Ogun, to manufacture health materials, with the potential of creating well over 1,000 skilled jobs and huge potential for wealth creation,’’ he added.

The minister also announced that China had granted a soft loan of 500 million U.S. dollars has imposed huge drawdowns on their natural capital base, with serious risks for human health, the environment and the subsistence of local communities.

In most areas, Nigeria has been faring much worse than South Africa. The Inclusive Wealth Index (IWI) published by the UN measures the growth of produced capital (for example, GDP) against the stocks of natural resources that are depleted in the process. For the IWI, Nigeria is by far the worst performing country.

When the gains in terms of GDP are offset against the depletion of

By Folasade Folarin

for the construction of a light rail system in and around Abuja, adding that the Asian country was also sponsoring the construction of a 50bed hospital in Abuja.

Ashiru said Mexico had also granted Nigeria 54 million U.S.-dollar-FDI to develop plantations for the cultivation of pineapple and other crops for export to European Union (EU) markets.

On international visibility, the minister said that in the last two years, Nigeria was elected into many positions which she had hitherto been denied by the African Union (AU).

“We have worked hard to reverse this trend and within this period, we have successfully secured 16 international positions for Nigeria and Nigerians.

“Furthermore, Nigeria is also at present in the highest level of decision making organ of the AU, in charge of democracy, election and good governance of the continent,” he added.

Ashiru said Nigeria’s interventions in the crises in Guinea Bissau, Cote d’Ivoire, Mali, Libya, among others, had fostered Nigeria’s relations with such countries and repositioned the country in the international community.

He, nonetheless, expressed optimism that based on the recently signed deal between Malian authorities and the Touareg group; democracy would be restored to Mali soon.

“It is true a peace deal that was signed and we are optimistic. Nigeria is in the driver’s seat in this process of negotiation and the move towards elections in Mali. We want all countries in West Africa to be democratised and we will move towards that.

“We will work with all stakeholders to ensure

human capital and natural resources, the Nigerian miracle evaporates altogether. Rather than increasing its overall wealth, the West African country has been accumulating economic losses at an average annual rate of 1.8% since 1990. Nigeria has also overtaken South Africa in the costs associated with environmental degradation: 2.51%, compared with the 2.24% of the Rainbow Nation.

During the period 1990 to 2008, Nigeria destroyed 41% of its forest resources, one of the highest deforestation rates in the world. According to the Resource Governance In-

that whatever peace agreement that is signed is respected and we will also make sure that all other parties, including the EU, U.S. and the UN will move speedily towards elections in Mali.’’

However, Ashiru expressed regret that over 9,000 Nigerians were currently serving prison terms abroad, out of which 752 were in British prisons.

“Most of the remaining prisoners are concentrated in the Asia-Pacific region and a good number of them are on death row. We are concluding Prisoners’ Transfer Agreement (PTA) with countries such as UK, Thailand, Japan, China, Indonesia, Switzerland, South Africa, Mozambique, Angola and Hong Kong; so that we can bring home these Nigerians to complete their prison terms,’’ he said.

Nevertheless, the minister appealed to Nigerians abroad to engage in legitimate business and refrain from committing crimes like drug trafficking which attracted capital punishment in some countries.

The Minister of National Planning, Dr Shamsuddeen Usman, who also spoke at the Ministerial Platform, said that Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) moved up by eight steps in world ranking within the last two years.

“Nigeria moved from the 44th position in 2010 to the 36th position in 2012, recording the highest FDI inflow of 7.01 billion U.S. dollars in 2012, overtaking South Africa for the first time,’’ he said.

Usman said inflation was now within the single digit bracket of 8.6 per cent, as against 12.4 per cent recorded in 2011.

“The deliberation meeting of the International Investors Council that was just concluded and the report from the index say that all indicators are moving positively towards our target of

dex, Nigeria falls at the bottom of the global ranking, with a very poor record in terms of transparency and accountability in the management of its oil riches, more than 20 places below South Africa.

We all know about the dire effects of multinational companies’ systematic exploitation of oil fields in the Niger delta: environmental destruction, political destabilisation and human displacement.

Role model for the continent But GDP regards these phenomena as “positive” for the economy, with

Vision 20:2020. This performance is expected to be sustained in the medium term, given the massive reform measures being implemented.

Whichever sector you look at, reforms are taking place and these are beginning to yield results,’’ he noted.

He said the National Planning Commission (NPC) had initiated major reform initiatives at the federal and state levels, such as the institutionalisation of the strategic planning process at the federal level.

Besides, Usman said that institutionalisation of Performance Management System (PMS) was aimed at measuring the performance of ministries and individual officers as against negotiated performance targets.

“Progress made under PMS is the establishment of Monitoring and Evaluation (M and E) departments in NPC and M and E units in the Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs). Signing of the 2012 performance contract agreement between the ministers and the president also led to regular ministerial performance reporting at the Federal Executive Council (FEC).

“Reform data generating process was spearheaded by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) which also encouraged the establishment of States’ Statistical Bureaux,’’ Usman added.

The feats notwithstanding, the minister said that there were still some extant challenges, adding that these included the issue of security and translating the robust growth rates to jobs.

Analysts contend that if the challenges, especially the security challenge, are overcome, FDI inflows into Nigeria and the national economy will receive a significant boost.

• Folarin is of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

paradoxical consequences for the way in which most African economies are designed and run. No surprise, therefore, that one of the world’s least -sustainable societies is now touted as a role model for the continent.

As the UN recognises, GDP focuses exclusively on the “cash” being generated by market activities (that is, present income and production flow) whereas alternative measures of inclusive wealth highlight the importance of stocks of assets and their changes over time.

The politics of GDP makes coun-

tries blind by rewarding short-term consumption and wholesale exploitation of natural assets at the expense of social justice and sustainability.

There is no economic success without sustainable progress, and African economies would be better off if their leaders realised that GDPbased frameworks are very misleading. If South Africa is serious about leading the continent towards a brighter future, it should develop a more comprehensive wealth-based accounting system and help the rest of Africa, including Nigeria, to do the same.

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THE NATION MONDAY, JULY 1, 2013

NEWS JTF kills 50 Boko Haram suspects Continued from page 1

•Carter Bridge from Idumota to Iddo, Ijora Olopa, Adeniji, Ebute Ero and Ofin last night after the switching on of the public light infrastructure by Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola...last night.

INSET: Fashola (second left) With him are: Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure Dr. Obafemi Hamzat (seconnd left), his Energy and Mineral Resources counterpart, Mr. Taofeek Tijani (left) and the General Manager, Lagos State Electricity Board, Mrs. Damilola Ogunbiyi (second right).

Amaechi, Wike in battle of wits after Jonathan’s visit

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ARELY 48 hours after President Goodluck Jonathan left Rivers State, Governor Rotimi Amaechi and a faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) stakeholders (led by Minister of State for Education Nyesom Wike) are locked in a battle of wits on who won the President’s confidence.

The Amaechi camp is claiming victory for reuniting with Jonathan. Wike’s group said the President did not shun it as being widely circulated.

The Wike-led PDP stakeholders alleged that the President exchanged pleasantries with the minister before embracing Amaechi.

But fresh facts emerged yesterday that President Jonathan told Governor Rotimi Amaechi to ignore members of a faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who came to the Port Harcourt International Airport on Saturday to bid him farewell.

Jonathan, it was learnt also, appeared to have sold a dummy to Amaechi because some

From Yusuf Alli, Abuja

members of his kitchen cabinet and the First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan, have been implicated in the campaign against the governor.

According to a source, who spoke in confidence with our correspondent, the President was more at home with Amaechi than Wike who has been bankrolling the PDP faction in Rivers State.

The source, who was at the airport, said: “When President Jonathan arrived at the Port Harcourt International Airport in a presidential helicopter at about mid-day en route to Abuja from Bayelsa, he embraced Amaechi and members of the Rivers State Exco. He shunned the factional PDP opposition group in the state, led by Wike.

“This made Wike and his group confused and dumbfounded.

“When President Jonathan alighted from the chopper, after shaking hands with Amaechi, the MD of NDDC, Dr. Chris Oboh and a couple of others, he ignored the roll of Wike’s loyalists who stood

close to the helicopter.

“When told who they (Wike’s loyalists) were, the President avoided them but moved to the line where Amaechi’s exco members were waiting to greet him.

“The President and Amaechi could be seen talking to each other with Amaechi pointing in the direction of his state exco. Wike, who was also at the airport, was seen frantically trailing behind them.”

Asked what the President told Amaechi, the source added: “When President Jonathan was shown the line

by Wike supporters, he reportedly told Amaechi not to worry about ‘this thing because it doesn’t really matter’.

Jonathan added: “Ignore them; I have seen this kind of thing several times. Ignore them, please.”

“After President Jonathan boarded his presidential Jet, Wike and members of his group looked perplexed, forlorn and dejected. Wike had mobilised people to the airport.

“One of them was heard saying: “It’s like we have lost

out . Why have they been lying to us that Mr. President is with us, that Jonathan will support us to chase Amaechi from the State? This has shown clearly that they have been lying to us. I will have to go back to Amaechi.”

Responding to a question, the source said: “Now, the rejection by Mr. President has thrown Wike’s camp into disarray. They have been holding meetings to try and calm their people down.”

But a source in Wike’s camp, who confided in our correspondent, said: “As a matter of fact, when the President arrived at the airport, he exchanged pleasantries with the Minister before moving over to Amaechi and his exco members. The minister was closer to the aircraft than the governor. So, the minister was the first port of pleasantries.

“Jonathan did not shun Wike who mobilised PDP stakeholders to the airport for a rousing reception for the President. There was no way the President would shun a member of his cabinet for Continued on page 84

ised our troops to the area.

On getting there, the suspected terrorists noticed our presence and started shouting ‘Allahu Akbar’ (God is Great) as they fired sporadic gunshots at the JTF troops. We had no option than to repel the attacks as we succeeded in killing about 10 of the suspects.

“We did not take their bodies away, leaving them in the area. The following day when we mobilised our men to the area, we found out that hundreds of the terrorists were at the grave yard burying their dead and and as we approached, they started shooting at our troops which led to the exchange of gun fire, where we succeeded in killing over 40 of them”. The JTF source said. He could not be quoted because he does not have the authority to speak..

“As I am talking to you now, our men are still in Zabarmari hunting for any sus-

S

but were unsuccessful. They then blew off the wall leading into the cells.

It was learnt that one prison official was hit by a bullet. All the inmates at the prison were set free.

Olokuta Prison, which is about one kilometre to the headquarters of the 32 Artillery Brigade of the Nigerian Army, Owena Barracks was reportedly riddled with bullets.

The prison was established in 1989. It was built to accommodate 150 inmates. But at the time of the attack it had about 1,000 prisoners.

The state prison comptroller, Mr. Tunde Olayiwola, described the attack as unusual, stressing that the prison authority would arrest and prosecute the culprits.

He ruled out the possibility of the dreaded Islamic sect, Boko Haram being the masterminds of the attack, saying the incident happened around 12: 05 am.

“We cannot specifically identify those behind the attack, but the incident is unusual. One of our officers was in-

jured during the attack and he is in the hospital right now receiving treatment, but I am assuring that those behind the attack will brought to book,” Olayiwola maintained.

The comptroller said the attack was the first of its kind in the history of the prison.

Unconfirmed reports said some of the prisoners who were set free by the hoodlums has been arrested by security agents.

Commissioner of Police, Patrick Dokumo and some top government officials have reportedly visited the prison.

Police spokesman Wole Ogodo confirmed the incident, maintaining that it had no link with Boko Haram.

He said: “This incident has nothing to do with terrorism.

People shouldcontinue with their normal duties. The police will continue to protect lives and properties.”

Ogodo urged anybody with information on the incident to give it to the police, pledging that such will be treated with utmost confidentiality.

According to him, all security agents are working to track down the culprits for prosecution.

The late Ewherido

ENATOR Pius Akpo Ewherido, an Urhobo from Ewu Kingdom in Ughelli North Local Government Area of Delta State was born April 4, 1963 in Ughelli. He attended Urhobo College, Effurun and the University of Ife where he obtained a degree in Philosophy.

He also read Law at the University of Benin.

His political journey started when he contested as chairman of Ughelli Local Government on the platform of the member, whose sibling is a priest.

Mr. Aoiri Obiagbo told our reporter: “Members of the Order of Knights of Saint Mulumba and Catholic community in Warri will greatly miss this young promising man.”

Sources at his bedside said former Delta State Governor James Ibori called on Saturday when he learnt of the late Senator’s state. Ibori is in Britain doing a term for money laundering.

President Goodluck Jonathan expressed shock and Senate President David Mark was sad. Mark cut short

Continued on page 84

Akure prison bombed Continued from page 1

Delta Senator Ewherido dies in Abuja at 50

Continued from page 1

tal, following a sudden rise in his blood pressure.

Delta State Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan, who visited him shortly after, told our reporter that he had arranged to have the late Ewherido flown to South Africa before his death yesterday.

It was gathered that the decision to take him to South Africa followed the refusal of one reputable German hospital to have him.

It was gathered that the aircraft that was to take the late senator to South Africa arrived about the same time as his death yesterday afternoon.

His death threw Delta State into shock and disbelief.

The member representing Warri Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Daniel Reyenieju, described the late Ewherido’s death as “most painful and sad”.

The Catholic community was also thrown into mourning by the death of the devout

pected terrorists who might have escaped the deadly encounter”. He added.

On the arrests of three suspected Boko Haram members who were allegedly on a suicide mission to Jigawa Statre, the source said, “The men of the JTF are highly delighted with the zeal/effort being put in place by the vigilance youths popularly called Civilian JTF. The JTF source added: “They (the vigilance team) handed them to the JTF unit and one of them, now dead, said, they were from Bama Local Government Area on a suicide mission to Jigawa and other states in the north. In fact, the deceased, before his death, told us that already, all their weapons of massive destruction had been transported to the target areas before luck run out of them”.

Due to the total closure of GSM network services in Borno state, JTF Spokesman

Grassroots Democratic Movement (GDM) in 1997. He was elected into the House of Assembly in 1999 on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). He was acting speaker.

The late Ewherido was re-elected in 2003 and remained a powerful force until he contested the 2006 governorship primary of the party, which he lost to Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan, with whom he worked closely in the past.

He went on sabbatical from politics for

his trip to Ghana where he was leading a Nigerian delegation on a golf tour.

The Delta State Government, in a special announcement by Secretary to State Government (SSG) Ovuozourie S. Macaulay, said: “The death is hereby announced of Senator Akpo Pius Ewherido, Senator representing the Delta Central Senatorial District in the National Assembly.

Senator Ewherido died today Sunday, 30th June, 2013 at the National Hospital, Abuja after a brief illness.

“The Government of Delta State wishes to commiserate with and express its deep

about three years before he resurfaced on the platform of DPP in 2010. He won the Senate seat after beating his former associate and colleague in the Urhobo Political Forum (UPF), Chief Ighoyota Amori, by 102,313 votes to 85,365.

Although reports of a fallout with the leader and governorship candidate of the DPP in 2011, Chief Great Ogboru, is rife, the late Ewherido was seen as a very strong candidate in the 2015 governorship race.

condolences to the family at this trying moment. Government advises Deltans, particularly members of his Constituency to remain calm.

“We pray that God grants his family, constituents and all of us, the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.”

The chairman, Senate Committee on Information, Media and Public Affairs, Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, said the late Ewherido took ill at the weekend and was not able to make it.

The Senate, Abaribe added, is “heart broken and devastated over this unfortunate incident”.

He described the late Ewherido as one of “the most articulate, erudite, urbane and easy-going Senators who brought his wealth of experience as a Speaker of Delta State House of Assembly to bear on the floor of the Senate.”

He said the late lawmaker was “always concerned about his constituents and Nigeria as a whole”.

Dr. Jonathan’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Dr. Reuben Abati, said: “On behalf of members of the executive arm of the Federal Government, President Jonathan extends his heartfelt

•The late Ewherido

condolences to Senator Ewherido’s family, the Senate President, Senator David Mark and all of the late SenaContinued on page 84

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THE NATION MONDAY, JULY 1, 2013

NEWS

Stop campaign of calumny against APC, says ACN

T

HE Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) has condemned what it

described as “the persistent campaigns of calumny” against the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The party described the alleged attempt to use ethnoreligious sentiments to destroy the budding party as a cheap shot that has fallen flat on “the faces of the purveyors of falsehood”.

It urged Nigerians to disregard the attempts by enemies of progress to sabotage the birth of the APC, in addition to being vigilant in the days ahead.

In a statement in Lagos yesterday by its National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, the party thanked Nigerians for standing by the APC. The statement reads: ‘’These purveyors of falsehood do not want good governance. That’s why they are peddling the lies that the interim leadership of the APC is controlled by Muslims, and that it did not reflect the country’s plural values. ‘’The truth is that while ethno-religious sentiments did not form the criteria used in selecting the interim leadership, we were conscious that Nigeria is a country of plural values. That is why we have 17 Christians

F

Fani-Kayode: APC not a Muslim party

ORMER Minister of Aviation Chief Femi Fani-Kayode has said the All Progressives Congress (APC) is not a Muslim party.

He said of the 37-member Interim National Executive Committee of the APC, 18 are Muslims and 17 are Christians.

Fani-Kayode, in a statement in Abuja yesterday, said the Muslim label being ascribed to APC was the handiwork of propagandists in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

The statement reads: “Those that say that APC is a Muslim party and are citing and passing around a long list of newlyappointed Muslim interim officers as evidence of this are either being mischievous or are just plain ignorant.

“The APC has 37 interim national officers on its interim National Executive Committee. 18 of those officers are Muslims and 17 are Christian.

“Those that are publishing and spreading the all-Muslim list in the media and the social websites and networks should be advised to go and publish the full list of all the national officers of the APC and not just the list of Muslim ones.

“This is merely a PDP ploy to sell a lie to the public and attempt to clothe it as truth and it shall not stand. The truth is that there are many more religious and ethnic bigots in the PDP and much more ignorance than there is in any other party in Nigeria.

“It is the National Chairman of the PDP by the name of Alhaji Bamanga Tukur and not that of the APC that recently described the Islamist terrorist organisation called Boko Haram as ‘freeBy Precious Igbowelundu

and 18 Muslims (the best balance possible in the odd number of 35 posts that were shared). That is why the 35 occupiers of the positions are from 29 different states, four more than the 25 stipulated

by INEC. It was equal opportunity across all zones! (See list on last column)’’

ACN challenged anyone who doubts the authenticity of these facts and figures to verify them at INEC, instead of spreading rumours.

The party said: ‘’First, they ambushed us by duplicating our acronym, sponsored of course by those who are well known to Nigerians and, when that failed to slow

From Yusuf Alli, Abuja

dom fighters’.

“It is the leader of the PDP by the name of President Goodluck Jonathan and not any APC leader that recently described Boko Haram as his ‘siblings’ whom he ‘could not move against’.

“It is a leader of the PDP in the person of Governor Isa Yuguda who recently said that he knew the various factions in Boko Haram very well and that he knew what they could do and not do.”

The ex-Minister said PDP stalwarts were those dining and wining with Boko Haram insurgents.

He said: “If you are looking for those that are ready to dine with that terrorist organisation and that have slaughtered over 7000 Nigerians in the last two years look to the PDP and not the APC. Our PDP Federal Government has been soft on terrorism from day one and this has led to the burning down and bombing of hundreds of churches all over the North.

“You tell me who has assisted the Boko Haram terrorists more in their evil quest- the weakness and cowardice of the Jonathan administration and its inability to provide the Nigerian people with security and protection when faced with terror or the rhetoric of the leadership of the APC. Those that accuse the APC of being a party of Islamic fundamentalists, Islamists and terrorist sympathisers or a party for only Muslims are completely wrong.” down our momentum, they said the sharing of posts will divide us and ultimately sound our death knell. With these moves having failed woefully, they have now played what they considered their most potent joker: the ethno-religious card.

“Thankfully, this too has failed. Nigerians are so de-

sirous of good governance that they will not allow any play on sentiments to shake their resolve.’’

ACN said the promoters of the APC were determined to give Nigeria the good leadership that has eluded it for long and were prepared to shelve their differences and make whatever sacrifices to achieve this objective.

Interim officers ACN

•National Chairman - (SW)Chief Bisi Akande (Oshun) •National Legal Adviser (SW )-Dr Muiz Banire (Lagos) •National Vice Chairman -( SW)-Otunba Niyi Adebayo (Ekiti) •National Vice Chairman - (SS )-Chief Tom Ikimi(Edo) •National Publicity Secretary - (NC )-Alhaji Lai Mohd (Kwara) •Deputy National Org Secretary- (NW )Sen Lawal Shuaibu (Zamfara) •Deputy National Youth Leader -( SE)-Mr Uzo Igbonwa (Anambra) •National Ex-Officio -( SS )- Chief Kenneth Kobani (Rivers) •National ExOfficio-(NE)-Mr Antibass ElNathan (Taraba)

ANPP •National Secretary - NE (Yobe )- Tijjani Musa Tumsah •National Financial Secretary - NW -( Zamfara )- Shuaibu Musa •Deputy National Treasurer - NW - (Sokoto) - Usman Danmadami •Nat Welfare Secretary SE - (Enugu)- Emma Eneuku •Deputy National Pub Sec.- NE-( Borno) - Barr.

Isa Madu Chul •NVC - NE -( Adamawa) - Alh Umaru Duhu •NVC - NW -( Kano) - Barr Salisu Inuwa Fage •Ex- Officio -SW- (Ogun)- Hon. Yemi Sanusi •Ex- Officio - NC (Benue)- Nelson Alapa

CPC •Dep. National Chairman North - NW- (KT)- Hon Aminu Masari •National Treasurer NW -( Zamfara )- Sadiya Umar Faruk •Deputy National Sec. NW -( KD)- Nasiru El rufai •Deputy Nat. Legal Adviser NC -( KG)- James Ocholi •National Vice Chairman NC (NS) - Gen Ahmed Abdullahi Aboki •Deputy National Auditor - NE- (Bauchi)- Capt Bala Jibrin •National Woman Leader - SE- (AN)- Sharon Ikeazor• National Youth Leader- NC - (NG)- Abubakar Lado •National Ex-Officio - NE -(AD)- BD Lawal

APGA

•Pastor Kumuyi... yesterday

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•The congregation at the service... yesterday

PHOTOS: NIYI ADENIRAN

Kumuyi: God‘ll work wonders in Nigeria

HE General Superintendent of the Deeper Life Bible Church, Pastor William Kumuyi, has said God will work wonders in Nigeria.

Pastor Kumuyi spoke yesterday during the twoday special mid-year celebration service of the church at its Conference Centre on Kilometre 42 on the LagosIbadan Expressway.

Quoting John 17:1, the cleric said when Nigerians

By Nneka Nwaneri

began to see one another as one, they would experience God’s mercy.

“We are not alone. God’s power resides in us. We all belong to God as members of His body that cannot be broken. God is faithful in His promise of making us priests and kings in His kingdom. We are working

together with Him as the tree and humans as the branches,” he said.

Pastor Kumuyi said: “No matter the mountains of problems, if you have faith, you will say to the mountain to be moved into the sea and it will be removed because with God, all things are possible.

Jesus is the ultimate redeemer and commander. He spoke with command and authority on infirmities.”

PDP chief Onwe warns Tukur against flouting court orders

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AWYERS to the former acting National Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Solomon Onwe have warned the party’s National Chairman Bamanga Tukur against flouting court order’s following his removal from office.

Onwe lost his position to the recent forced mass resignation of some of the PDP national officials following the disapproval of their election by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

In a letter to Tukur, by Ajibola Oluyede Jonathan of the International Commercial Lawyers & Arbitrators, Onwe

By Olukorede Yishau

said his removal was in contempt of a court.

The Federal High Court, Lagos, on April 19 ruled that, “ The 1st Contempnor ( Tukur, Chairman, PDP, representing the party) shall purge itself of contempt of this order by confirming the appointment of the alleged 2nd contemptnor (Barrister Solomon Onwe), as Acting Secretary of the party and retain him in that position until a new National Secretary is nominated from the Southwest zonal congress and elected in accordance with the constitution of the party.”

Onwe’s letter warned: “It is, therefore, imperative if the various steps being taken by the party to remedy perceived irregularities is to amount to anything, that Dr. (Remi) Akinloye be removed immediately and Mr. Solomon Onwe returned to his position as Acting National Secretary in compliance with the court order”, adding that Onwe only “resigned from his substantive office as Deputy National Secretary( which was one of the positions INEC queried) and not from the office (of National Secretary) which he was merely on an acting capacity”.

He said the appointment of Dr. Akinloye to replace him was null and void.

The letter reads: “Therefore, any activity of the party in which Dr. Akinloye participates will also be a nullity, including the forthcoming Southwest Zonal Congress/ Special National Convention.”

The letter, which was copied to President Goodluck Jonathan, INEC chief Prof.

Attahiru Jega, Chairman, PDP Special Convention Prof.

Jerry Gana and Chairman, PDP Board of Trustees Chief Tony Anenih, added that: “Onwe is expected to act as

Acting National Secretary until a new nominee from the Southwest Zone of the party is produced to take the position substantively...in order to avoid further citation of party officers for contempt of court and to establish a valid premise for the forthcoming Special National Convention”.

Onwe was elected Deputy National Secretary (Southeast) at the last PDP convention in Abuja but was later appointed Acting National Secretary after the election of the former substantive secretary, Chief Olagunsoye Oyinlola, was nullified by the court.

•Dep Nat Chairman South SE-(AN) Sen Anie Okonkwo •National Organising Sec. -SE(IM)- Sen. Osita Izunaso •Dep National Fin Sec.- SE- (EB)Sunday Chukwu •Ex- Officio - NC -( PL)- Dr Jok Alamba •Dep National Woman Leader- (GM)- NE- Amina Abdullahi •Nat Vice Chairman SE - (AB)- Dr Anyim Nyerere

DPP •National Auditor - SS(DT)Emeka-Olisa Akamukalli •Deputy Nat Welfare Sec. - SE -(IM) - Sir Romanus Egbunike.

Jordanian Airline debuts in Lagos

By Kelvin Osa Okunbor

ROYAL Jordanian Airlines will on Wednesday launch its inaugural flight from Amman, Jordan to the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos.

The inaugural flight, according to the airliner’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Amer Hadidi will operate the route twice weekly with its wide-bodied, 280-seat Airbus - A330.

General Manager of Ela Travels and Tours Limited, the General Sales Agent (GSA) of Royal Jordanian in Nigeria, Mr. Yousef Suleiman said: “Royal Jordanian has a strong network around the world.”

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THE NATION MONDAY, JULY 1, 2013

NEWS

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CNPP requests blanket recovery of $400b Abacha’s loot

ISING from a meeting in Enugu at the weekend, the Conference of Nigerian Political Parties (CNPP) has called for a blanket request for the recovery of Nigeria’s over $400 billion looted funds.

The CNPP said though it supported the recovery of the funds looted by the late Head of State, Gen. Sani Abacha, the Goodluck Jonathan administration should request for a blanket recovery of over $400

From Chris Oji, Enugu

billion fleeced off the nation’s treasury in the last two decades.

CNPP was reacting to a report by the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mr Mohammed Bello Adoke (SAN), that the Federal Government had recovered about N5.5 billion (2.5

million British Pounds) and that negotiation had reached advanced stage to recover N36.7 billion (175 million Euro) of the late Abacha’s looted fund.

In a communiqué by its National Publicity Secretary, Mr Osita Okechukwu, the CNPPP said: “President

Jonathan should utilise the window opened by the United Nations Convention Against Corruption, which binds countries to render mutual legal assistance in gathering and transferring evidence and Chapter V of the Convention, which makes asset recovery explicitly a fundamental

principle of the Convention.

“Our investigation within the diplomatic circle shows that former President Olusegun Obasanjo only requested for Abacha’s loot and turned a blind eye to the other looters. We demand that a blanket request be made; for we need the billions of dollars to invest in critical infrastructure, revamp our decayed social services and stem gross unemployment.”

‘Obasanjo won’t leave PDP’ From Oseheye Okwuofu, Ibadan

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ESPITE the crisis rocking the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), former President Olusegun Obasanjo will not leave the party for the opposition, his friend, Dr Femi majekodunmi, has said.

In a statement yesterday, Dr Majekodunmi noted that the progress the PDP has recorded since its formation could be attributed to the contributions by Obasanjo.

The former President resigned his position as the Chairman, Board of Trustees (BoT) of the party last year and has continued to stay away from the activities of the party.

Dr Majekodunmi said though many people believe that Obasanjo has adopted the “siddon look” attitude in the affairs of the PDP, he is still committed to the repositioning of the party to make every member have a sense of belonging.

He said no situation, no matter how difficult, would make Obasanjo to leave the PDP, which he holds dear to his heart.

According to him, Obasanjo leaving the PDP would be tantamount to being out of partisan politics.

He said: “There is no doubt that the PDP, as at today, is facing severaL challenges, which Chief Obasanjo is aware of.

•Archbishop of Abuja, John Cardinal Onaiyekan (second left); chairman of the occasion, Chief Philip Asiodu (left); representative of the President and Minister of Works, Mike Onolememen (second right) and Deputy Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Finance, Abayomi Ogunnusi, during the Catholic Men Organisation 2013 National Fathers’ Day and award ceremony in Abuja...yesterday.

PHOTO: ABAYOMI FAYESE

Alleged $23.5m scandal in Embassy: No fund was missing, says Minister T HE Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Olugbenga Ashiru, has said that no $23.5million was missing at the Nigerian Embassy in the United States.

He asked Nigerians to await the final report of the Senate Committee’s investigation into the issue.

Ashiru, who made the clarification in a statement in Abuja, said the sale of Federal Government propertyin Washington DC was duly authorised by ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo.

The statement said: “The attention of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has been drawn

From: Yusuf Alli, Abuja

to the above-mentioned allegation as carried in most national newspapers of Friday, June 28, 2013.

“The newspapers reported a public hearing conducted by the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, at which Nigeria’s former Ambassador to the United States, Prof. George Obiozor, Nigeria’s current Ambassador to the same Mission, Prof. Ade Adefuye, and Nigeria’s current Permanent Representative to the United

Nations in New York, Prof. Joy Ogwu appeared.

“The Committee was meeting to investigate allegations of the embezzlement of $27 million, being proceeds from the sale of Federal Government properties in Washington DC. The Ministry, however, wishes to inform the general public as follows: That all monies involved in the sale of Federal Government properties were duly and completely accounted for.

That the sales were duly

Atiku: my father was jailed for refusing ORMER Vice President Atiku Abubakar at the to let me attend school weekend stunned his au-

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dience in Geneva, Switzerland, when he relived how his late father was jailed for refusing to let him attend school in his hometown of Jada, Adamawa State.

Atiku spoke at a ceremony in the European city when he was conferred with an honorary doctorate degree by the Geneva School of Diplomacy and International Relations.

“When my father was put in jail by local authorities because he needed my assistance with herding the livestock, it seemed like a harsh punishment,” he said.

The former Vice President

noted that “were he (his father) to be alive to witness this day and the last 30 or so years of my life, I am sure that he would exclaim ‘wow! Education pays, after all’.

The founder of the American University of Nigeria (AUN), Yola, recalled that as a boy growing up in his rustic village of Jada, he had dreams.

According to him, it was education that made his dreams come true.

Atiku said: “Education is what brought me in contact with members of the United States of America’s Peace Corps when I was still a little boy. It was a

contact and interaction that would have profound impact on my life, especially my love for education and service.”

Underscoring the imperative of education to personal growth and development, the former Vice President said it gave him the friends he made across Nigeria as he attended high school and university; gave him a job in the civil service and provided him with opportunities to meet and form more life-long friendships from across the world.

Atiku attributed the modest achievements he has made in business and politics as well as

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HE Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) yesterday condemned the re-arraignment of two Leadership reporters Mr. Tony Amokeodo (Group News Editor) and Mr. Chibuzor Ukaibe (Political Correspondent) - barely 50 days after it dropped the forgery charge against them.

The Goodluck Jonathan administration, on June 24, re-arraigned the journalists on an 11-count charge before

an Abuja High Court.

But, in a statement yesterday in Abuja by its National Publicity Secretary, Rotimi Fashakin, the CPC urged Jonathan to “cut the chase and order unconditional withdrawal of the law suit forthwith to save the nation from further embarrassment”.

It described the step taken by the Presidency as “a shameful U-turn”.

The statement added: “It would be recalled that on April 3, 2013, the Leadership Newspaper published a bromide of a purported Presidential directive to, among others, ensure a crackdown on the opposition, stifle the registration of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and increase price of petroleum products.

“But in swift cacophonous rhythm, the two spin doctors in the Presidency issued sep-

From Adesoji Adeniyi, Osogbo

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OUR Nigerian institutions, including Osun State University (UNIOSUN), have benefited from about N500 million ($2.9 million) grants awarded by Canadian agencies on production of vegetables.

The International Development Research Centre (IDRC) and the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA), under the Canadian International Food Security Research Fund (CIFSRF), are jointly funding the research project on promoting and growing under-utilised indigenous vegetables in Nigeria.

A team, comprising the four institutions in Nigeria and Canada, will carry out research on “sustainable production and utilisation of under-utilised Nigerian vegetables to enhance rural food security”.

At the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in Osogbo, the Osun State capital, UNIOSUN Vice Chancellor Prof. Adekunle Bashiru Okesina said the team comprises scientists from two Nigerian universities - Osun State University, Osogbo and Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife – as well as two Canadian universities (University of Manitoba and Cape Breton University.)

He listed the principal investigators of the four scientific teams Professors Clement Adebooye, Wole Akinremi, Duro Oyedele and Thomas Bouman.

Prof Okesina said: “The project is being implemented in four Southwest states: Oyo, Osun, Ondo and Ekiti. Some of the salient results obtained so far on the project include some 4,600 vegetable producers, marketers and consumers who were interviewed across 72 communities in the four selected states (Oyo, Osun, Ondo and Ekiti).

CBN’s cash-less policy begins in six states today

T •Atiku

his contributions to improving the lives of others to education.

He advised parents not to choose career options for their children but allow them to discover their innate potentials by charting their own disciplines.

CPC urges Jonathan to withdraw case against Leadership reporters From Gbenga Omokhunu, Abuja

authorised by former President Olusegun Obasanjo.

That the sum of Twenty Three Million, Five Hundred and Eighty Six Thousand, Four Hundred and Ninety Seven Dollars, and Eighty Four Cents ($23,586,497.84) was realised from the sale of the three (3) Federal Government-owned properties in Washington DC, United States of America, between 2004 and 2007, and not $27 million as reported in the papers.

UNIOSUN, three others get Canada’s N500m grants

arate statements. Dr Reuben Abati, the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, intoned: ‘It is worth pointing out, again, that what is being bandied around by a section of the media as a “Presidential Directive” on Tinubu, APC and other matters, is fictitious, designed to mislead the public, discredit the person and office of President Goodluck Jonathan and cause disaffection within the polity’...”

By Collins Nweze

HE moderated cash-less policy of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) begins today in the Federal Capital Territory (Abuja), Abia, Anambra, Kano, Ogun and Rivers states.

Ahead of today’s take-off of the policy, several commercial banks have, through emails, text messages and formal letters, been sensitising their customers on the need to embrace the alternative payment options.

The policy, which was hitherto operational in Lagos State, is aimed at promoting the use of electronic-based transactions instead of cash for the payments for goods, services, transfers, among other services. The implementation of the “Cash-less Lagos”, as it is known, began on January 1, last year. It recorded improvements in the use of Point of Sale (PoS), Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) and other e-payment tools.

The service charges/fees did not apply until March 30, last year, to give people time to migrate to electronic channels and experience the infrastructure that has been put in place.

The CBN Deputy Governor, Operations, Mr Tunde Lemo said the policy is expected to drive development and modernise Nigeria’s payment system in these states.

ASUP threatens to sustain strike

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From Yusufu Aminu Idegu, Jos

HE Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) has said its two-month-old strike will continue if the Federal Government refuses to meet its demand.

The union also said it was not about to renege on the nationwide strike it began two months ago, adding that until the government meets all its demands, its members would not go back to the classrooms.

ASUP explained that it was the nonchalant attitude of the government to meet its demands that compelled the union to embark on the strike.

The union’s position was part of the resolution of its 74th National Executive Council (NEC) meeting at the Federal Polytechnic, Oko, Anambra State. It was signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Clement Chirman.

THE NATION MONDAY, JULY 1, 2013

CITYBEATS

CITYBEATS LINE: 07059022999

Flood: Lagos warns residents A

PIECE of advice came yesterday from the Lagos State Government for residents of some flood-prone communities.

They should seek refuge elsewhere for fear of floods.

The advice was issued for residents of Ajegunle, OwodeOnirin, Owode-Elelede, Kuramo Beach, Alpha Beach, Okun-Mapo, Okun Ajah, Mende in Maryland, IjoraBadia and Iwaya, among others.

Commissioner for The Environment Mr Tunji Bello, who gave the advice, specifically urged those living on flood plains, low-line areas and other riverside areas to be extremely careful in the coming months.

He said: "As we approach the second half of the year, Lagos residents are being alerted to prepare for high-intensity rains with accompanying wind and

By Bunmi Ogunmodede

thunderstorm from the month of July," the commissioner said in a statement by Mr Fola Adeyemi, a director in the ministry.

The government's warning came on the heels of a Nigeria Meteorological (NIMET) report, which lists Lagos was listed among other states prone to heavy flooding this year.

Besides, it was part of the precautionary measures being adopted by the state to sensitise Lagosians ahead of the peak of the rainy season.

He further said: "As the intensity of the rain increases in July, Lagosians are advised not to panic whenever it rains as they will start to experience accumulated water concentration on some parts of the roads and highways, depending on the intensity of the rains.

"Lagosians are, however, assured that the accumulated water will recede in no time."

According to the commissioner, the downpour since January has raised the water level in the state, thus weakening the retention capacity of the soil.

Bello, however, assured that whatever level of flash floods recorded during the rains, will gradually be discharged within 24 hours after, adding that the drainage channels had been cleared to accommodate large volumes of storm water.

The commissioner explained that Lagos, being a coastal state, cannot but be susceptible to flash floods anytime there is torrential rainfall, adding: "However, what is of utmost importance to this administration is to ensure that whatever flash flood experienced is effectively discharged through the

Woman abandons baby after delivery

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HREE days after her delivery, a baby girl has been abandoned by her mother, Mrs. Grace Adipe, at the Osun State Hospital, Osogbo.

Commissioner for Women and Children Affairs Mrs. Mofolake Adegboyega, said yesterday that efforts to locate the mother by the hospital authorities were unsuccessful.

The commissioner enjoined the woman's relations and the public who know her whereabouts to contact the

nearest police station or the Director of Social Welfare, Mrs. Grace Adegoke in the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs at the state Secretariat on Gbongan Road.

Mrs Adegboyega praised the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons and Other Related Matters (NAPTIP) for its efforts in the elimination and prevention of child trafficking.

The commissioner gave the

commendation at the weekend when members of the agency visited her.

Mrs Adegboyega said the state government had provided a transit home for displaced children as well as other kids who are victims of child trafficking in order to make them comfortable and responsible citizens of the state.

She implored the people to always alert the government through the ministry whenever they witness any case of child abuse.

sion.

Idris explained that in addition to the eye screening the pupils benefitted from education on environmental sanitation, personal and oral hygiene, care of the eye and adequate nutrition. Besides, government has trained teachers in childhood blindness prevention amongst pupils.

About 1,295 teachers have been trained in basic eye blindness detection and prevention and equipped with

screening kits and certificates.

Idris said his ministry was collaborating with the Ministry of Education to ensure that teachers in all the 802 public primary schools in the state are properly trained.

Each school is provided with a vision corridor and selftested billboards. Their training had started to yield benefits as the teachers have so far screened 17,572 pupils; 13,626 were detected to be having vision impairment.

By Medinat Kanabe

Facaulty of Education, LASU, Prof P. A. I. Obayan.

The Dean, Faculty of Education, Prof Rafiu Okuneye, said the theme was chosen after considering on-going talks about transformation in the country, adding that a communiqué will be issued at the end of the conference. Participants, he said, would come from Ghana, SierraLeone, South Africa and Gambia.

From Adesoji Adeniyi, Osogbo

Eye defects: Lagos screens pupils

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AGOS State Government has said it had so far screened about 65,000 primary school pupils for eye defects and impairments under its School Health Programme.

The screening according to the Commissioner for Health, Dr Jide Idris, is one of the strategies employed by the government to reduce the incidence of childhood blindness and pupils dropping out of school or performing poorly as a result of poor vi-

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LASU begins conference today

HE Consul-General, United States Consulate, Lagos, Mr Brian Browne and the former Secretary of the National University Commissioning (NUC), Prof Peter Okebukola are among local and international speakers billed for the international education conference at the Lagos State University (LASU), Ojo, Lagos, which starts today.

Also expected at the five-day

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conference tagged: "Education and the transformation agenda at nations; hindsight, insight and foresight", are: President of Nigeria Academy of Education, Prof U.M. Ivowi; ex-Provost of Adeniran Ogunsanya College of Education Dr. Kayode Noah; Lagos State Commissioner for Works Dr. Obafemi Hamzat and first Dean of

CAC loses member

DEACONESS of the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC), Warri, Delta State, Madam Anirejoritse Elizabeth Olugbo, has passed on. According to her daughter, Mrs. Josephine Ahonaruogho, who was there when she died last Monday, she was about 100 years old.

A prominent trader, particularly in dry fish business during her younger days, the late Madam Olugbo, according to family sources, will be buried in her compound at EkuredeItsekiri, Warri on July 13 after a funeral service at the same venue. A Christian wake will

be held in her honour on July, while an outing service will hold on July 14, at the CAC Cathedral, Warri-Sapele Road, Warri.

Madam Olugbo is also survived by several grandchildren including Mr. Alex Gbiwen, Assistant Director, Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Abuja and Chief Richard Oma Ahonaruogho, immediate past president of the University of Benin Alumni Association (UBAA) and Chairman of the Conference of Alumni Associations of Nigerian Universities (CAANU); several great

•The late Madam Olugbo

grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins and other relations.

channels that have been dredged and cleaned up in anticipation of this year's rain.

"Lagos residents are further encouraged to relate effectively with deployed resident engineers and drainage maintenance officers whose phone numbers were recently published in the print and electronic media, for the public to alert them whenever they have flooding challenges."

The commissioner urged Lagosians to be safety-conscious in the days ahead, advising them to avoid going out during the rains except when compulsory.

Restating that his ministry had intensified its mid-rain cleaning and maintenance

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Building collapse Tribunal sits today

By Emmanuel Udodinma

• Bello

programme, Bello assured all that the government would not to relent until zero tolerance is attained on flooding.

‘Kidnap suspects deserve special tribunals’

HE Federal Government has been advised to set up special tribunals to try kidnap cases.

Former Air Officer Commanding (Training Command) of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Air Vice Marshal Osita Obierika (rtd) made the call at a two-day security conference organised by the Association of Industrial Security and Safety Operators of Nigeria (AISSON).

It was entitled: "Security: A prerequisite for national development."

Obierika, in a paper entitled, "Crises Management of Kidnap and Ransom Cases in Nigeria," said the measure became necessary because “a

7

By Jude Isiguzo, Police Affairs Correspondent

serious ailment requires serious remedy".

He said kidnapping had become a national malaise that was capable of driving away investors.

"Insecurity kills national development and confidence. Insecurity drives away investors and good money. Insecurity breeds instability. This is the fate of Nigeria in the present circumstances …Nigeria is experiencing palpable death of confidence, and it is associated with the prevailing menace of kidnapping in the land. Something drastic must be done about it," he said.

TRIBUNAL of Enquiry set up to probe the spate of building collapse in Lagos State will begin sitting today.

The tribunal, which was set up by Lagos State Governor, Mr Babatunde Fashola, will also make recommendations to the state government on how to stem the incidents.

The chairman of the tribunal, Abimbola Ajayi, an architect, while speaking at its inaugural sitting of at the Lagos City Hall, said the continued trend of building collapse in the state necessitated the setup of the tribunal. "Every year, incidents of building collapse are recorded and no responsible government will allow this trend to continue unabated,'' she said.

The tribunal will have three months to conclude its investigations and recommendations to the government.

The tribunal is expected to examine the quality of building materials and methods in the state and assist the government to judiciously act on cases that are not in compliance with existing regulations and standards. It will also serve as a forum for all stakeholders, including house owners, tenants and professionals in the building sector, to contribute to proffering solutions to the problem.

THE NATION MONDAY, JULY 1, 2013

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NEWS Vigilance group brutalises man

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From Sulaiman Sulaiman, Ado-Ekiti

42-YEAR-OLD man, Mr. Sunday Ajayi, was at the weekend brutalised by a vigilance group at Ojumose in AdoEkiti, Ekiti State capital.

The incident, which occurred during the monthly sanitation, led to criticisms of members of the group, who were described as “arrogant and brutal” in their dealings with the public, especially on sanitation days.

According to eyewitnesses, the victim, who said he was ill and was going to the next street for medication, was stopped by a woman member of the group.

Mr. Ajayi was reported to have fled when he was ordered to stop. The woman, simply identified as Sola, ran after him and caught him.

The sources said she hit him (Ajayi) with her boot, causing him to fall down before another male member of the group called Ade joined her to beat the victim.

According to the sources, on realising that Ajayi had become unconscious, Sola and Ade attempted to flee the scene, but were apprehended by sympathisers, who had been watching the incident.

The victim, after regaining consciousness, told the sympathisers, including the state Commandant of the Vigilance Group of Nigeria (VGN), Mr. Ajagunigbala Moses that “he ran so that they would not hand him over to the police.”

Ajagunigbala, who pleaded for peace, promised to “do everything to get to the root of the matter and deal with the culprits.”

Mr. Ajayi was taken to the State Specialist Hospital for medical aid in a vehicle belonging to the State Commandant.

Ogun PDP fears contempt of court

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HE Ogun State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has alerted the national leadership of the party to what it described as “a potential time-bomb” in the appointment of an acting National Secretary for the PDP as well as the Caretaker Committee for the Southwest.

It said if not urgently addressed, the issues could make a mess of the ongoing efforts to reposition the party.

In a petition dated June 27 written on behalf of the Adebayo Dayo-led State Executive Committee (Exco) by their lawyer, Prince Ajibola Oluyede, the party said by virtue of the ruling delivered by a Federal High Court on April 9, in Suit No. FHC/L/CS/347/ 2012, in respect of its application for committal for contempt of court, the former Deputy National Secretary of the PDP, Mr. Solomon Onwe, ought to remain the acting National Secretary until a substantive occupant of the office is nominated from the Southwest Zonal Congress.

Dayo, an engineer and the state Secretary, Alhaji Semiu Sodipo, had in a post-judgment committal application against the National Chairman, Alhaji Bamanga Tukur; the Acting National Secretary, Onwe; former National Publicity Secretary, Chief Olisa Metuh and erstwhile Legal Adviser, Mr. Victor Kwon, prayed the court for an order directing them to purge themselves of contempt by complying with certain orders of the court.

The party quoted the court as ordering, among others: “That the first contemnor (PDP) shall purge itself of contempt of this order by confirming the appointment of the second alleged contemnor (Onwe) as acting National Secretary of the party and to retain him in that position until a new National Secretary is nominated from the Southwest Zonal Congress and elected in accordance with the constitution of the party.

“That the first judgment debtor (PDP) either by its officers and organs, including the alleged contemnors are hereby restrained from dissolving or disbanding the Caretaker Committee appointed as directed above until new officers are elected from a duly organised and conducted Southwest Zonal Congress.”

•Ade carrying a baton on the scene of the incident

•Ajayi (left) and one of the sympathisers

Jonathan urged to begin charity at home

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FENIFERE Renewal Group (ARG) has urged President Goodluck Jonathan to begin charity at home.

The group, in a statement yesterday by its Media/Publicity Secretary, Mr. Kunle Famoriyo, said: “It is the belief of Afenifere Renewal Group that the image of Nigeria requires better management than the way is being handled by the leadership of the country.

Two recent events confirm our position.

“The first is the rash reactions that followed UK’s announcement of a visa bond for Nigerian visitors. “Federal Government has promised to protect the interests of Nigerians and has even summoned the British High Commissioner to a meeting in Abuja.

“Secondly, while addressing the Nigerian community in

Cameroun, President Jonathan said Nigeria did not appeal the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruling on Bakassi, partly because it is interested in protecting Nigerians living in Cameroun.

“It is good that our government is prompt in attending to the needs of Nigerians living abroad, but does charity no longer begin at home? “These two incidents show disparity in government’s commitment to peace and prosperity at home; even portraying government as ready to compromise on Nigeria’s prosperity for the sake of those in the diaspora.

“As bad as the UK’s policy may sound, it underscores Nigeria’s dwindling international reputation. Our Foreign Minister disclosed that as many as 9,000 Nigerians are serving prison terms abroad, with the highest, 752, in the UK.

“The announcement said the bond will only be forfeited if visitors overstay their visa duration and that the policy is targeted at ‘high risk visitors.’ So, if the UK wants to discourage overstay; do we want to encourage it?

“Similarly, Deputy Chief of Mission, Nigerian Embassy in China, Ambassador Patrick Olusola Onadipe, lamented that 366 Nigerians are in Chinese prisons, mostly for drug trafficking. Four are in death row in China; 22 in Indonesia.

“Instead of mouthing empty promises, we believe our government must regain the trust of its citizens by implementing people-oriented policies. We know of a truth that many Nigerians abroad want to return home – not to be a burden on us but to help improve the economy. It is so sad that our government has not created the

enabling environment for their return; yet it wants to protect them so they continue living abroad and so the brain drain trend continues.

“Today, power generation stands at 2,290mw in a country that needs 40,000mw. Transportation and other basic infrastructures lie comatose. Worse still, politics of re-election, nepotism and ethnic sentiments has become the determining factor for implementing Federal Government’s policies. Even the media are no longer free to exercise their rights, judging from the fresh charges filed against the Leadership reporters.

“ARG thinks Nigeria has no business courting foreign governments over its citizens’ interests, only if we utilise our resources for our citizens’ interests.

“Mr. President, charity must begin at home.”

Fayemi urges change as Summer School closes •Ekiti varsity to partner govt to extend scope of programme

•Dr. Fayemi

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HE first Ikogosi Graduate Summer School (IGSS) was at the weekend concluded with Ekiti State Governor Dr. Kayode Fayemi making a case for attitudinal change among the people. He said this is to sustain the changes made to the physical structures.

Speaking at the closing ceremony, the Governor reiter-

ated his commitment to the development of the mental capacities of young Ekiti people and prepare them for future challenges, adding: “We must let our youths and trainers of future leaders realise that there is no short cut to acquiring knowledge. It can only be acquired through hard work.”

Dr. Fayemi, who said physical infrastructure can collapse and sometimes require repairs, stressed that knowledge impacted on the people is the surest way to sustain infrastructural developments.

According to him, “we are building structures and effecting changes to our physical

structures in Ekiti, but they can only be sustained by attitudinal, mental and value re-orientation among our people and this remains one of the best ways to actualise this.”

The Governor, who said knowledge building helps to prepare one for a lifetime benefit, urged the academia not to see their positions as a means for personal aggrandisement.

He said they should see their posts as a way to effect changes in the society.

At the well- attended closing ceremony, the Vice- Chancellor, Ekiti State University (EKSU), Prof. Oladipo Aina, said he had instructed the Post-

graduate School of the university to devise modalities through which EKSU could partner the government to strengthen the Ikogosi Graduate Summer School.

He said the IGSS programme is like bringing a tip of the global intellectual community to “our environment as there is no way there will be development in a community without this kind of a gathering.”

Prof. Aina said the programme should not be limited to graduate students alone, but should be extended to the academia so that knowledge could further be enhanced.

He added that IGSS is the beginning of the actualisation of the state’s potential as the fountain of knowledge.

‘EKSU lecturer dismissed for sexual harassment’

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LECTURER at the Ekiti State University (EKSU) has been dismissed for alleged sexual escapades with female students.

The Registrar of the institution, Dr. Omojola Awosusi, broke the news at the weekend when he addressed members of the gender-based violence prohibition law (GBVL) management committee, who were on an advocacy visit to the university.

According to Awosusi, the dismissal of the lecturer was “a warning signal to the university community that gender-based violence would not be treated with levity.”

The delegation was led by the wife of the Ekiti State Governor and Chairperson of the committee, Erelu Bisi Fayemi and Commissioner for Women Affairs, Social Development and Gender Empowerment, Mrs. Fola Richie-Adewusi.

The registrar said an attempted rape of a non-academic official was nipped in the bud when sympathisers were attracted to the scene by the victim’s shouts.

The registrar said legal encumbrance was a major challenge

From Sulaiman Salawudeen, Ado-Ekiti

for the university in dealing with errant students and lecturers found culpable of sexual harassment.

The committee also visited the state Chief Judge, Justice Ayodeji Daramola, Commissioner of Police Mr. Sotonye Wakama and Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Olawale Fapohunda.

Justice Daramola said the adoption of alternative dispute resolution mechanism in settling criminal matters is not in the best interest of justice.

He said he was always taken aback when relatives of victims of crime approached the court with the position that they had forgiven the suspects and would not want to go ahead with the case.

He said: “Alternative dispute resolution mechanism is more sophisticated in Ekiti. Even people want to settle criminal matters out of court. You hear things like ‘We have forgiven him.’ Such forgiveness will only encourage crime to fester.”

11 burnt to death in road crash From Oseheye Okwuofu, Ibadan

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LEVEN people were yesterday burnt to death in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, following an accident at Macmillan, near Soka/ Sanyo on the Ibadan/ Lagos Expressway.

Sympathisers wept over the tragedy.

A thick smoke from the burning bus covered the atmosphere, attracting residents and passersby.

It was a gory sight as the victims were burnt beyond recognition.

According to an eyewitness account, a commercial Mazda bus was coming from Ogijo in Ogun State and heading for Beere in Ibadan. The occupants were to attend the Wolimat (an Islamic school graduation) of a relation.

It was learnt that most of the occupants were dressed in a uniform-Ankara bought for the occasion.

The source said the propeller of the bus pulled off and hit the fuel tank, catching fire.

The driver of the bus, in an attempt to save the situation, reportedly veered off the road and hit a heap of sand by the roadside.

The source said immediately the bus stopped, the driver and the two passengers in the front jumped down and escaped, but others were not lucky as the door of the bus was locked.

Eight adults and three children died in the fire.

Thirteen others, including the driver, sustained various degrees of burns and were taken to the Adeoyo Hospital and University College Hospital (UCH) in Ibadan.

Confirming the accident, the Assistant Corps Commander and Unit Commander, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Oluyole Ibadan/Lagos toll gate, Mr. Adeoye Sanya, said: “We were informed of the accident around 1pm. We rescued some of the victims and took them to hospitals.”

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NEWS

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Ekiti pensioners to get N1b

KITI State Governor Dr. Kayode Fayemi has brought smiles to the faces of pensioners, with the payment of arrears of N1 billion to 1,755 beneficiaries.

Of the beneficiaries, there are 1,045 pensioners, who worked as local government staff and primary school teachers, as well as 710 pensioners, who worked in the civil service and teachers in secondary schools.

Retired local government workers and primary school teachers received N251.3 million for April. Their counterparts, who worked in the civil service and teachers in secondary schools got N252.6 million for the same month.

Retired council workers and primary school teachers got N250.8 million for May. Retired civil servants and sec-

From Sulaiman Salawudeen, Ado-Ekiti

ondary school teachers received N250.6 million for the same month.

The Chairman of the Pension Commission, Chief Oluwole Ojo, said the gesture was borne out of Fayemi's interest in ensuring that those, who have served the government meritoriously, are taken care of in retirement.

Ojo said the payment of the pension for the retirees is spread between April and next January.

He said modalities had been put in place at the pay points to prevent ghost pensioners from benefiting from the exercise.

The Pension Commission boss noted that government's gesture would boost the economy at the grassroots and

assist the retirees in taking care of their needs.

He said Fayemi proved to be a friend of the old with the implementation of the Social Security Scheme for the aged in which old people receive N5,000 stipends monthly.

According to him, the governor in September last year approved N501 million for the payment of gratuities to 269 retirees.

Ojo said: "We thank Governor Fayemi for taking the plight of the old people into consideration; for taking it upon himself not to allow these people to die in penury.

"This is a feat the beneficiaries never thought could happen so soon. We thank and appreciate him.

"With what he is doing, he should be allowed to see into fruition the beautiful

programmes and laudable projects being executed in the state.

"I know that regular payment of benefits to pensioners will have a great impact on the economy at the grassroots because they will have one thing or the other to buy with the money they are being paid.

"Governor Fayemi surprised us by releasing the money we are paying to our pensioners. Those who had thought they would never be paid are now jumping for joy and thanking him for performing this feat."

Ojo urged workers, who are still in service, to join the Contributory Pension Scheme, which he described as an antidote to the problems confronting pension administration in Nigeria.

Prayers in Ondo ahead Appeal Court’s verdict •Session for ACN, Akeredolu From Damisi Ojo, Akure

•Akeredolu

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S the Appeal Court sitting in Akure, the Ondo State capital, delivers judgment in the last governorship election today, Christian and Muslim faithful at the weekend converged on Ita-Ogbolu, Akure North Local Government Area to pray for the victory of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN).

They also sought divine intervention in the administration of the state.

The interdenominational religious programme organised by the Sunshine Coalition (SC), a group in the ACN, was led by Prophet Akinola Michael and Evangelist Raphael Akerele for the Christians. Alhaji Adepoju Tajudeen and Alhaji Mudashiru Shittu led the Islamic prayers.

Their prayer points centred on leadership change and victory for the ACN and its governorship candidate, Mr. Rotimi Akeredolu (SAN).

The religious leaders acknowledged the efficacy of “prayers in bringing justice

to the pauperised citizenry”, stressing that “rather than rituals being carried out by those in the corridors of power, we seek divine intervention by God.” They recited Holy Bible and Holy Koran verses, saying the hardship experienced by the people would be reversed by prayers.

Speaking to reporters after the prayers, the Coordinator of the Sunshine Coalition, Mr. Saka YusufOgunleye, said: “In this time of suffering in the state, God is the only solution to our problems.

“We are praying for justice at the Appeal Court. We are not like those, who have confidence in fetish power. We believe in the efficacy of prayers. It happened in Osun and Ekiti states. Ondo will not be an exception.

“Even the biblical Israelites in their turbulent days called on God and their prayers were answered.

Ondo State is currently in ruins; it has remained static. We need God’s intervention and this prompted these prayers.”

The SC Chairman in Akure North, Fatukasi Oluwatuyi and Woman Leader, Alhaja Serifat Adepoju, said: “We believe in God; we abhor rituals and with our ceaseless prayers, we will get justice at the Appeal Court.”

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COMMENTARY FROM OTHER LANDS

EDITORIALS

Seeking compromise, not chaos, in Egypt

Pay up!

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• That Mobil could evade education tax for years leaves much to be desired

N June 21, the Tax Appeal Tribunal, Lagos Zone, ordered Mobil Producing Nigeria Unlimited to pay its education tax bill of $83.4 million (N13 billion) for 2008, as assessed by the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS). Mobil had dragged the FIRS before the tribunal on May 5, 2011, on the ground that the assessment breached the Memorandum of Understanding signed by the company with the Federal Government and the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) in 2000. The MoU, it claimed, allowed it to deduct all amounts it incurred in paying taxes and levies to the federal, state and other agencies of government in computing its education tax liability.

While contesting Mobil’s claim, the FIRS insisted that the 2000 MoU was for a three-year term, with a terminal date of January 1, 2003; it supported its claim with a letter from the Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR) showing that the MoU has indeed expired even as it maintained that the applicable legislation at the time of assessment was the Petroleum Profits Tax Act (PPTA), which it argued “cannot be subordinated to the mere contemplations of the MoU”.

In upholding FIRS’s claims, the tribunal held that the MoU was only for a three-year term. Specifically, the tribunal observed that Mobil failed to exercise the “option to renew” in clause 7.1 of the MoU, exercisable at the joint in-

stance of all the parties. The tribunal would observe further: “this option was never exercised, and thus no renewal or extension was triggered”. In effect, the company was no longer entitled to make deductions allowed under the 2000 MoU, in calculating its education tax.

A number of issues appear to have been provoked by the judgment. The first is that the MoU had actually lapsed as far back as 2003 whereas the disputed assessment is in respect of 2008. Are we to believe that there are no assessments for the years’ 2004-2007? And what happens to the subsequent years’ 2009-2012 considering that the order in respect of 2008 is already five years in arrears?

No doubt, it is tempting to see the dispute merely as one borne of differences between the company and the tax authorities over interpretation of legitimate incentives. But the issue is certainly deeper. The development provokes troubling questions about the activities of multinational companies, particularly their perception of their tax and other corporate obligations in their host countries.

The truth of the matter is that our multinationals’ love for the Nigerian gravy is already too well known to be disputed; so is their near infinite capacity to manipulate the rules to their advantage.

On the one hand, our typically weak institutional environment ensures that they can literally get away with murder; on the other, our officials, ever too easily

compromised, ensure that they are never brought to book.

Mobil may have been caught out; it is highly unlikely to be alone in such practices. Both the NNPC and DPR must consider themselves as no less complicit in creating the loopholes under which the operators have been known to take shelter. We consider it unimaginable that NNPC which drafted the MoU will keep FIRS, the body charged with tax matters, in the dark about the terms of the MoU in question. But even more worrisome is that FIRS needed five years to issue the disputed assessment. The development does not speak well of the synergy between them.

We expect Mobil to respect the judgment by paying promptly.

‘The development provokes troubling questions about the activities of multinational companies, particularly their perception of their tax and other corporate obligations in their host countries. The truth of the matter is that our multinationals’ love for the Nigerian gravy is already too well known to be disputed; so is their near infinite capacity to manipulate the rules to their advantage’

Again, pension scam

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•The way government officials handle the matter gives room for concern

HE regularity of scams in the pension sector in the country is turning epidemic. Hardly does a week pass without the federal authorities galling us with tales of unbelievable criminality against one of the most vulnerable groups of people in the society – the elderly and mostly infirm members. Last week, it was reported that the Federal Government, through the Office of the Head of Service, Alhaji Goni Aji, has closed 36 bank accounts used to pay pensions, following discoveries that they were used to siphon the pensions meant for genuine pensioners.

Despite this stomach churning criminality, the attitude of federal agencies in bringing the culprits to justice is, at best,

‘The recent report is one such bizarre reaction of the federal authorities to serious crimes.

For, we are not aware that law enforcement officers have been to the banks responsible for the alleged scams to ask for documents that could give clues to the beneficiaries of the stolen funds. There has also been no report that those officials of the pension agencies allegedly making the illegal withdrawals have been brought in for questioning by the police. ’

lackadaisical. For, if government officials can claim to be helpless that ghosts have taken missing funds; we ask whether ghosts can also open bank accounts, to cash illegitimate pension funds? In the report on the scam in one of the national dailies, it was alleged that before the dissolution of the Presidential Pension Reform Task Force, 32 persons and corporate organisations had over 140 indictments against them. Again, it was claimed that over 13, 874 cheque leaflets were used by pension criminals to siphon billions of the funds meant for pensioners. The reports talked of how 30 cheques were drawn in a day, while over N250 million was being withdrawn weekly by pension officials.

Despite this alleged criminality in the federal pensions, the attempt to bring the culpable officials to justice has, at best, been laughable. The recent report is one such bizarre reaction of the federal authorities to serious crimes. For, we are not aware that law enforcement officers have been to the banks responsible for the alleged scams to ask for documents that could give clues to the beneficiaries of the stolen funds. There has also been no report that those officials of the pension agencies allegedly making the illegal withdrawals have been brought in for questioning by the police. The impression from the reaction of the government officials is that the closure of accounts and harmonisation of the banks for pension payment to only four banks is enough action by the authorities.

We think it a tragedy that a wicked younger generation is mismanaging the life-saving entitlements of an older generation. What is even more disheartening is that each time a new set of persons is asked to stem the rot, and effect necessary changes; it appears they turn out worse than those they have been asked to scrutinise. As we write, nobody is sure what has become of the accusations and counter-accusations over bare-knuckle criminality made by the legislature against the former chairman of the Pension Task force, Alhaji Abdulrasheed Maina and his team.

While the man has allegedly gone underground following the order that he should be arrested, he nevertheless let out even a sourer tale of collusion, by high officials of government as the reasons for his being witch-hunted.

While all these are going on, the elderly Nigerians whose lives are dependent on the stipends that their pensions have become, in the face of inflation, are left very vulnerable. To show that our federal authorities are at least conniving to perpetuate the sufferings of the senior citizens, they continuously engage in one bogus reform after another. Indeed, as if those responsible for the welfare of the pensioners are not human beings themselves, they keep asking the old men and women to go for unending documentations. Yet, despite the several reforms and the wasted resources, the stealing of the pensions of our senior citizens appears a hot spot for pension criminals.

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FTER A YEAR of misrule by its first democratically elected government, Egypt is hurtling toward a potentially catastrophic political conflict. It’s a confrontation that is unlikely to benefit either the Islamist government or its mostly secular opposition, but it could destroy Egypt’s hopes for consolidating a stable democracy or addressing its profound economic problems.

The Tamarod or “rebel” movement called on Egyptians to take to the streets Sunday, the anniversary of President Mohamed Morsi’s government, in order to force it from office. The movement claims to have collected more than 15 million signatures on a petition calling for new presidential elections. The problem with this agenda is that there is no legal or constitutional mechanism for carrying it out; Tamarod’s leaders are hoping for what would amount to a new revolution or perhaps a military coup.

The Morsi government has done much to generate this ill-advised militancy. Breaking promises to seek consensus with secular and opposition forces, it forced through a new constitution and has been trying to impose its control over the judiciary, media and civil society groups. It has devised laws that would tilt future elections in its favor and passed up opportunities to strike deals with moderate opponents.

Perhaps more significantly, the government has infuriated average Egyptians with its poor management. Cities are plagued with power outages and fuel shortages, inflation and unemployment are growing and investment is dormant. A long-promised deal with the International Monetary Fund has never been completed, and only bailouts from Qatar and Libya have kept Egypt from exhausting its reserves of hard currency.

As we have written previously, there are substantial grounds for concern that Mr. Morsi and the Muslim Brotherhood movement are seeking to monopolize power. But the opposition’s undemocratic answer offers little prospect of a good outcome. If mass protests succeed in prompting the government’s downfall or a military coup, any future elected government will be subject to the same tactics. And no administration will be able to tackle Egypt’s economic dysfunction, which will require painful reform measures, as long as the country remains polarized.

The only workable way forward is a bargain in which Mr. Morsi agrees to major compromises with the opposition, including constitutional reforms, the withdrawal of harmful legislation concerning the judiciary and nongovernmental organizations and an end to the prosecution of opponents. In exchange, opposition leaders should stop trying to overthrow the government and begin working to win the next election.

The United States has tried to push the sides toward such a compromise, but weakly. It has held back from using its economic leverage to curb Mr. Morsi’s excesses and even from speaking up against them forcefully, thereby convincing many Egyptians that it is propping up the Islamist government.

U.S. relations with the Egyptian military, which has walled itself off from the government, remain strong, which offers another opportunity. Last Sunday the armed forces commander declared that the military has “the obligation to intervene to stop Egypt from plunging into a dark tunnel of civil fighting and killing or sectarianism or the collapse of state institutions.” Washington should make clear that while the military may have a role in preventing bloodshed and pushing for compromise, a forcible interruption of constitutional order is unacceptable.

• Washington Post

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

• Executive Director (Finance & Administration) Ade Odunewu

•Deputy Editor Lawal Ogienagbon

•Advert Manager Robinson Osirike

•Deputy Editor (News) Adeniyi Adesina

• Gen. Manager (Training and Development) Soji Omotunde •Chief Internal Auditor Toke Folorunsho •Senior Manager (sales) Akeem Shoge

•IT Manager Bolarinwa Meekness •Deputy Editor (Nation’s Capital) Yomi Odunuga •Press Manager Udensi Chikaodi •Group Political Editor Emmanuel Oladesu •Manager, Corporate •Group Business Editor Marketing Ayodele Aminu Hameed Odejayi •Sport Editor • Manager (Admin) Ade Ojeikere Folake Adeoye •Editorial Page Editor Sanya Oni

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THE NATION MONDAY, JULY 1, 2013

CARTOON & LETTERS

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IR: Everybody talks about corruption. Everybody laments the level of corruption in the country. One way or the other — consciously or unconsciously, directly or indirectly — everybody fuels corruption. We pretend to fight corruption. Sadly, everybody is in trouble.

One doesn’t have to be a pessimist to realize that we’re all in big trouble. Even though corruption hurts the poor disproportionately, the rich are not immune to the pains and sorrows that accompany endemic corruption.

Corruption is a virus eating away at the very fabric of society. By subterfuge, it destroys institutions and values that contradict its nature.

Corruption ruins families and communities. Corruption pollutes religions of love and peace with greed and violence. Corruption

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EDITOR’S MAIL BAG

SEND TYPEWRITTEN, DOUBLE SPACED AND SIGNED CONTRIBUTIONS, LETTERS AND REJOINDERS OF NOT MORE THAN 800 WORDS TO THE EDITOR, THE NATION, 27B, FATAI ATERE ROAD, MATORI, LAGOS. E-mail: views@thenationonlineng.net

One nation bound in corruption turns centres of learning into epicentres of decadence. Corruption converts the judiciary from the temple of justice into a fortress for corruption itself. Corruption substitutes the virtue of honesty with the culture of impunity. Corruption prefers the cacophony of sycophancy to the strength of moral character. Corruption jettisons the tradition of meritocracy but embraces the celebration of mediocrity. Corruption turns the world

upside down, for instance, by associating celebrity with indecency; and so on.

But who is really fighting the monster that is threatening our existence? Is it the political class that the revered Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka aptly summed up as “The very quagmire of corruption, nurtured on corruption, sustained by corruption and dependent on corruption for its very survival”?

Or, the public-private partners that

occupy strategic positions in the web of corruption! Could it be the impoverished citizens who have common enemies to fight against, but are being knocked down by ignorance and deeply divided by forces stronger than the bonds of brotherhood? Maybe, the endangered species in our midst whose wisdom and genuine voices are eternally being despised!

Corruption! We have gone abysmally down this perilous way. But

pardoned by the Obasanjo administration, yet such alleged pardon does not detract from the fact that he was once convicted for a criminal offence of forgery and misconduct. The integrity of the University of Nigeria conceived by visionary leader Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe and founded on high academic and moral grounds with a distinctive mission statement and motto: To Restore the Dignity of Man cannot afford to parade men and women of questionable characters in her Governing Council.

Such would be antithetical to the objectives and the high moral pedestal on which the institution is founded.

As an institution that is resolute on the quality and content of its grandaunts particularly in Learning and Character, this development constitutes a dangerous set back as the signal already created is one that justifies moral transgressions and misrepresent the values for which the institution is known and associated.

Mr. President, as the Visitor of

the University is enjoined to invoke his powers under Sections 14 and 15 of the University of Nigeria Act Laws of the Federation and remove or drop Buhari from the Governing Council of the university.

To be sure, the appointment of Salisu Buhari, is ill-advised, Unmeritorious, totally completely condemnable and accordingly rejected.

• Malachy Ugwummadu Legal Adviser, University of Nigeria Alumni Association Lagos Branch.

let the notion be corrected that the NGGT travel by Executive jets; contrariwise the entirety of the NGGT Team – including the Minister of Information - always travel by road in regular buses. It is equally noteworthy that the team does not restrict its project inspection activities to state capitals, but traverses a vast majority of Local Governments distant from the state capital visited. Contrary to Dare’s perception, the NGGT Team sparsely had any time for leisure and in most instances skipped meals as projects were inspected from dawn till dusk.

Contrary to the perceived suspicion of certain governors from

opposition political parties, the NGGT did not set out to deride or disparage their efforts. This much was attested to by the Governor of Zamfara State (ANPP), Dr. Abdul’aziz Abubakar Yari when he applauded the NGGT Team for being fair and dispassionate in its assessment of governance in the state. He went further to state that he had equally nursed his own reservations about the NGGT, but that his doubts had cleared by the strict adherence of the NGGT Team to purely developmental issues rather than political witch-hunting.

On the whole, the NGGT has recorded novel achievements and

Salisu Buhari’s UNN appointment

IR: In April, the Goodluck Jonathan-led Federal Government, in exercise of its executive powers, reconstituted the governing councils of federal universities and made elaborate appointments therein including, the appointment of Salisu Buhari into the Governing Council of the University of Nigeria, (UNN).

As a proud alumnus of that great institution, I feel thoroughly scandalized by the thoughts and decision of the Jonathan administration to embarrass the entire university community and her alumni with such unmeritorious appointment.

This particular appointment, like the Alamieyeseigha’s pardon, sends a very clear signal that crimes and criminal activities are not only condoned but rewarded, under the present administration.

It would be recalled that the beneficiary of the present appointment, Alhaji Salisu Buhari, was the first elected Speaker of the House of Representatives in 1999 upon the return of civil rule in Nigeria. He was tried and convicted for forging a certificate purportedly obtained from a Canadian University which subsequently enjoyed the infamous notoriety otherwise known as the “Toronto Certificate saga” . He was accordingly removed as Speaker on account of the forgery. Although he was allegedly

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IR: Olatunji Dare’s column “At Home Abroad” in The Nation, June 25 on the above subject matter refers.

Much as I admire Dr. Dare’s nimble wits and his artful writing, being a fervid follower of his column – every statement of his must still be placed against the mirror of truth. I feel obliged to correct his attempt to cripple the feet of truth and efface evident facts as contained in his article.

Having participated in the National Good Governance Tour in Kebbi, Zamfara, and Katsina States, I sure stand a better chance than Dare to educate the public on the activities of the NGGT Team. First,

Re: Haba, Labaran!

why has it become so difficult to halt the country’s slide into destruction? Are we hopeless as a people?

Whereas most of our woes are attributable to corruption, bad leadership — corruption’s closest ally — is the main culprit. Bad leadership fuels corruption, and every attempt to confront corruption is neutralized by bad leadership, and vice versa.

At the centre of corruption is the system that breeds bad leaders.

This notorious system in the remote past had irreversibly set in motion a chain reaction leading to a selfpropagating, self-amplifying and self-sustaining series of crises. That explains why we have been busy all along chasing shadows and hopelessly treating mere symptoms of an ailment whose root is continuously been nourished by a pool of structural defects.

The episodes in our “fight” against corruption in the last one year—let’s pretend we have short memories—including the presidential pardon for Diepreye Alamieyeseigha, a former Bayelsa State governor—more and more people, even born optimists, are beginning to doubt the possibility of Nigeria ever winning this battle.

Corruption in Nigeria is like a cancer in its advanced stage. And as we watch the disease run its course, may God have mercy on our souls.

• John Adebisi Abuja, FCT

stirred up an active consciousness in the hearts of the Nigerian public to hold government at all levels accountable. On the wings of its accomplishments is a renewed debate on the role of the Local Governments in the quest for autonomy. The NGGT is a very welcome initiative by the government and independent media and Civil Society Organizations which has helped to ventilate the reportage and focus on developmental attainments in our dear nation.

• Solomon Adodo National Coordinator, Empowerment for Unemployed Youths Initiative, Abuja

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THE NATION MONDAY, JULY 1, 2013

COMMENTS

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HE important question of the relationship between media coverage of terrorism and the impact of such media depiction on the rest of us ordinary citizens has continued to generate debates and commentaries in different climes.

It is a measure of its importance and direct relevance to the contemporary security challenges confronting Nigeria that I am, as it were, adding my own voice to the numerous views on the subject matter.

The topicality of the subject is so pronounced that two broad schools of thought have emerged. The first echoes the remonstration by the former British Prime Minister, late Margaret Thatcher, that media coverage is “the Oxygen of terrorism”, therefore, the way to manage it is not to report it. The other view however, is that championed by the likes of Rick Van Amersfool and David Hohmes, which opines that reporting crime and terrorism is both beneficial to the media, the state and its agencies as well as the public.

Time and space would not allow me to dwell extensively on these interesting schools of thought. My position however is that in engaging in reportage of this nature, the media should resist the urge for sensationalism, outright falsehood and unnecessary exaggeration and be guided by well-tested ethics of the profession – objectivity, control and that which promote healthy values in society. I am also of the view that the media has a crucial role to play in the delicate act of nation-building.

Thus, media practitioners should deliberately work towards building a strong synergy between them and the law enforcement agencies in the task of ensuring safety of lives and property and addressing the scourge of terrorism.

Crime can be defined as any act or omission which violates the law and which is punishable upon conviction. It is the commission of an act that is forbidden or the omission of a duty that is commanded by a public law which ultimately makes the offender liable to punishment by the law. Unlike crime, the word terrorism has multivalent definitions and has no universally accepted meaning. Thus, many would argue that the erstwhile militancy in the Niger Delta does not merit the nomenclature of terrorism.

According to the US National Consortium for the Study of Terrorism and Responses to Terrorism (START), terrorism and terrorist attacks are “the threatened or actual use of illegal force and violence by a non-state actor to attain a political, economic, religious or social goal through fear, coercion or intimidation”. Another definition sees it as a “calculated and extreme use of violence or threatened violence, perpetuated by malice to cause serious harm or violence against individuals, governments and their assets with the intention to attain political, religious or ideological goals through intimidation or coercion or instilling fear on civilian population”.

What is evident from these definitions is that terrorism, as well as crime, poses a grave threat to national security and the lives and property of individuals around the globe. While all terror acts amount to crimes, not all crimes amount to terrorism.

This then brings us back to our central theme, that is: how media coverage of terrorism and violent crimes impact on the overall well-being of the rest of us. My concern here is how we can manage our media coverage of terror activities in such a way that we do not inadvertently promote the cause of the criminals and terrorists or unconsciously turn our media out-

F

IRST, let me apologize if you consider my decision to use this medium rather unusual. I really wish there were better alternative ways of reaching you directly. Sir, you are faced with enormous challenges on all fronts, just as it is needless emphasizing the fact that as the President, you take the blame for the failures of everybody in your cabinet and government, though you are not a spirit to know what they are doing or be everywhere at a time.

No doubt, this counts among the many irreversible dilemma, which the office cannot be separated from, and which everyone occupying the office of the President all over the world understands, knowing that the office is not a tea party.

Interestingly, too, it is also this particular attribute that separates the leader from the uncommon leader, someone who prepared for the challenges inherent in the office, from the one to whom presidency simply happened on, by accident.

Little wonder everyone expects the President to have a little bit of the character of a genius - acting right and with a sense of honesty, all the time; making good decisions, drawing up and pursuing good policies and above all, taking responsibility for actions and in-actions!

Indeed, there is no emphasizing the fact that a country is as good as its President, more so as the buck stops at the President’s desk, willy-nilly. This is why, sir, I decided to write you knowing that you have a role to play in putting a wedge on some of the shameful developments in our nation in recent times.

In the last few months, newspapers have been abuzz with reports regarding the growing crisis of confidence among leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), for which many national leaders of the party have their positions under check; resigned either voluntarily or otherwise.

While one might say the crisis was undeserving of the media blitz it got, being an internal party issue, the development is a bold pointer to the rough road ahead for the PDP as the nation prepares for the 2015 elections. Worrisome as it is, though, it is not the main reason for writing you this morn-

‘Commendable as the drastic measures so far taken by your government to curtail their activities is, the nation having teetered on the feral zone in the northern region following their acts of terror, you must know that though the battle has been won in the field or almost won as the case maybe, it continues in the mind’

Rethinking media coverage of terrorism

By Frank Mba fits to external PR organs for terrorist interests.

In order to appreciate how media coverage impacts on terrorism, there is need to know what motivates criminals and terrorists in their quest to unleash terror and anarchy in society.

To gain attention of the media, terrorists carefully plan and select targets of attack that would attract maximum media coverage. A few examples here perhaps may suffice to illustrate this tendency: In 1972 at the Munich Olympics, while every eye was glued to the Games, the Palestinian terrorists struck and kidnapped Israeli athletes and thus monopolised the attention of the global television’s estimated 800 million audiences. The same argument informed the attack by terrorists on the Transit System in London during the G-8 Summit on July 7, 2005 in neighbouring Scotland.

Both the 9/11 terrorist attack in the United States by AlQaeda and the insensate attempt by Umar Farouk Abdulmutallab on the American Airliner, Airbus A330 – 300 on December 25, 2009 were all attempts by these vectors of violence to gain attention of the media.

In addition to gaining the attention of the public, terrorists also use the media to inform, publicise or inflict the public with their political causes, motives and rationale for resorting to violence. Through this, they hope to win the sympathy or empathy of the public and new converts to their cause(s), particularly from those whose cause they claim to fight. In Nigeria the unguarded attacks on the Police Headquarters Abuja on June 16, 2011, the UN building in Abuja on August 26, 2011 and other institutions of the state as well as the deliberate targeting of churches are well organised attacks intended to attract maximum attention and publicity.

Given these motives, terrorists usually carry out their attacks intentionally and strategically with full desire and craving for media coverage to enable them realise their goals. The terrorists’ quest for publicity has been greatly aided by the new and emerging media now at their disposal and discretion to publicise their messages to wider audiences.

The media’s response to crime/terrorism in Nigeria has rather been ambivalent. In some instances, the media has done extremely well in partnering the police and other law enforcement agencies in combating crimes and criminality in our society. But in other instances, some sections of the media have played roles that are, to say the least, lamentable. The bizarre and gory tales of destruction, tears, blood and fatalities perpetrated by these monsters are what we find everyday on these sections of the media.

But perhaps the most worrisome is the tendency of some media practitioners to engage in sensationalism and emotionalism, all in a bid to promote sales and profit in the unrestrained spirit of capitalism. While all these are happening, our common adversary – the hoodlums and terrorist - are savouring the gains of free publicity and extra psychological

mileage.

Another reason is that violence is a central and defining quality in contemporary television culture and is critical to the semiotic and financial momentum of contemporary media organisations. Much as the media have always been interested in reporting terrorism, the recent proliferation of television and radio channels and the emergence of mega – media organisations have led to greater competitions and insatiable appetites for shocking, sensational “infotainment” that is believed to keep audience captivated, boost ratings and circulation and increase profits.

We fully identify with the view by Mc Quail (2010) that the “Media can and should be held to account for the quality, means and consequences of their publishing activities to society in general and/or to other interests that may be affected”. We expect the media to stop feeding the public with publications and broadcasts which border on sentiments and emotions and restrain themselves from writing subjective stories, especially ones capable of causing apathy, hatred, despondency and xenophobia in our society.

Similarly, we appreciate the importance of a strong, free and incorruptible press in the affairs of any modern state. Thus, we are not, and will not canvass for the restriction of the freedom of the media in any way. We however recommend a responsive and responsible reportage in line with our national interests and the prevailing security challenges of the nation. We advocate a new regime of self-censorship and perhaps, peer review by media owners and practitioners as part of their contributions to the war against terror.

Finally, as we intensify our onslaught against terrorism and other violent crimes, we appeal for the support and cooperation of the media. We advocate the prioritisation of our national interests above other narrow considerations. The truth is that if we must defeat terrorists and their collaborators, we must among other things, stop giving them unmerited fame and publicity. We must collectively advance our common cause and remedies, while simultaneously suppressing their villainy and destructive tendencies.

• Mba, a chief superintendent of police, is Force Public Relations Officer

‘We however recommend a responsive and responsible reportage in line with our national interests and the prevailing security challenges of the nation. We advocate a new regime of self-censorship and perhaps, peer review by media owners and practitioners as part of their contributions to the war against terror. ’

Open letter to the President

By Aiyenigbafa Igbalaiye ing. Instead, I want to draw your attention to the growing legion of sycophants and jobless ethnic jingoists that have become the face of your 2015 presidential ambition even when you have yet to officially declare desire to contest.

Not only that. I am equally troubled like most Nigerians about the apparent division along ethnic and religious lines in Nigeria. While the roots of this nerve-wrecking development cannot be totally blamed on your administration, it is clear, however, to the discerning that it has risen geometrically in your tenure.

Thirdly, I return to the PDP again. Truth is, the party has fought many battles and made needless enemies than was necessary and like a patient on life support, its leadership, including the Presidency, needs to act fast. And, like some of your kinsmen, who through unguided and inflammatory comments regarding whether or not you plan to seek reelection in 2015 have grossed some enemies for you, PDP is increasingly gaining a notorious reputation that is casting a negative perception on your person. While you have the right to seek re-election and your kinsmen, the right to get your back as their brother, it calls for caution. This is so because with the benefit of history, this method is far too familiar. It is dangerous, particularly when the re-election clamour is coming mostly from your kinsmen while other regions simply give themselves to the ‘siddon look’ approach.

Recall that while former President Olusegun Obasanjo, primed himself for the controversial Third Term bid, the most vociferous of the opposition camps was his kinsmen, who against all odds - losing juicy contracts and board appointments - condemned the move to the point of pulling the strings when it mattered most. This cannot be said of your kinsmen for whom every decision you have made so far is in order.

Mr President, this is dangerous and I urge you to sieve facts from fiction.

While they are entitled to their opinion, I am wondering if it has ever bothered you that but for your kinsmen, no region – South-east or South-west - has shown so much passion and dedication regarding your 2015 election plans. Or, if, and when you decide to run, would the votes from the Southsouth region alone deliver the Presidency for you? Or, if, and when you win, would you become the President of Southsouth region alone? This explains why, sir, you must move quickly to stop these men with ‘creek’ mentality before they cause problems for you and disappear into thin air.

Worse still, Mr President, I am afraid the unity of Nigeria is under clear threat. It is no longer news that the war on the Boko Haram insurgents, a war right on time though, has further divided the country along ethnic lines. Many, today, blame it all on its handling. But whether right or wrong, it cannot be disputed that Boko Haram emergence also points to the growing disunity in the land. Commendable as the drastic measures so far taken by your government to curtail their activities is, the nation having teetered on the feral zone in the northern region following their acts of terror, you must know that though the battle has been won in the field or almost won as the case maybe, it continues in the mind.

So, no drums as yet, because those who would rather the group continued making Nigeria ungovernable for you now see the ‘war’ as the South against the north or, what a friend simply tagged: ‘President Goodluck Jonathan against the north.’ This is why I urge you to put on your thinking cap and make more friends even from every bad situation. In doing this, you would have extended a handshake of love across the north, and in return, winning over the willing among them as the 2015 elections approaches. Let no one beguile you by way of a noisy support on the pages of newspapers, for, at the risk of sounding pessimistic, the signs are pregnant with surprises. Yet they would amount to a child’s play when compared with the endless internal wrangling within the PDP leadership, the lack of internal democracy and increasing number of battles and enemies of the party. At a time when the opposition parties are mobilizing support, the PDP is neck-deep in destroying itself, ostracising real and imagined enemies of party leaders as if it were an instrument for fighting personal wars.

Truth is, everybody in a party cannot subscribe to party decisions, because as they say, what an old man sees sitting down, a young man cannot see standing up. So, who says he’s infallible? While party leaders may have their way, it does not foreclose dissenting views. Therefore, suspending a member for whatever phantom offences it maybe, would be counter-productive at the end and can only point to dictatorship, especially where such a member was not given the right of say, to defend him or herself. Unfortunately, this seems to be common with PDP leadership from history. Without pretext, Mr President, this should stop. Let the ongoing reconciliatory overtures continue. And, let every hitherto estranged PDP member share in equal and honest treatment. Only this can put PDP ahead of very determined opposition parties in 2015.

• Aiyenigba writes in from Ilorin

THE NATION MONDAY, JULY 1, 2013

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COMMENTS

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T does appear the crisis generated by the disputed election into the chairmanship of the Nigerian Governor’s Forum NGF will for long, dominate public discourse. If some governors are not blaming their colleagues for alleged betrayal, some others are seen talking of collective failure for the pass that has become the outcome of that election. There are also others rooting for an amicable resolution of the matter. Yet, the same election is before the court as Lagos State governor, Babatunde Fashola has challenged his colleague of Plateau State, Jonah Jang for parading himself as the chairman of the forum when Chibuike Amaechi of Rivers state was actually elected by a majority of the votes cast.

At another level, the presidency which should be working to resolve the impasse is neck deep in fuelling the controversy. At least on two occasions, it has taken actions that have portrayed it as the unseen hand behind the schism in the forum. President Jonathan has not only gone ahead to recognize Jang as the chairman of the forum, he also fixed a dinner for the governors on a date and time the first meeting of the Amaechi group was slated.

This is so even as Jang and his group have held meetings in their newly rented office without being challenged or have their meeting clash with key events at the presidency.

And after one of such meetings, Jang’s faction proceeded for a meeting at the presidency in which Jonathan recognized him as the chairman of the NGF, which he is not.

The maiden meeting of the NGF called by Amaechi since the crisis came up last week.

After notices of the meeting had been circu-

‘It is a mark of this mess that the sitting arrangement at last week’s National Economic Council (NEC) meeting had to be altered such that none of the disputants was recognized as the chairman.

That is part of the monsters we create’

T

Emeka OMEIHE 08121971199 email: EmekaOmeihe@yahoo.com

Again on NGF controversy lated, the presidency curiously summoned all the governors to Abuja for what it termed a mid-term dinner for the same day and time.

The immediate reading of that meeting was that it was a subtle attempt by the presidency to throw spanners into the NGF meeting so as to promote the claims of Jang to its leadership.

What had promised a test of power was maturely handled by 15 governors that attended the meeting summoned by Amaechi.

Having shown their presence at the Rivers State Governor’s lodge venue of the meeting, the governors resolved to adjourn in deference to the dinner called by Jonathan.

But they succeeded in making their point.

From there, they proceeded to the venue of the dinner, though after the president had arrived.

It is equally instructive that there were at least five PDP governors from the north in Amaechi’s meeting. This is very instructive as it goes to show that the so-called consensus within the PDP fold before the election was nothing but a ruse. If anything, the level of attendance has shown that those supporting Jang are being less than honest. The level of response and solidarity with Amaechi despite obvious attempts by the presidency to mess up that meeting is also very revealing.

It leaves no one with any shred of doubt that those who voted for Amaechi were not ghosts. It also speaks volumes about the purported consensus to have Jang as the NGF chairman. And as the governor of Niger State Babangida Aliyu succinctly put it, though northern governors agreed on Jang’s consensus candidacy, “when the election took place,

HOUGH my heart is heavy but I have not come in its heaviness because emotions are known to ultimately becloud judgment and that is what I have come to do today; to judge our national malady, to appraise the educational insanity and to give resounding rounds of applause to the mediocrity of the Nigeria students [Of whom I am one].

I have come to try to take you down the lane called memory, as we flip through the pages of history, trying to revisit the relics of time and learn the lessons that history teaches.

Many may have sent you condolences after the death of the Senate President [NANS] and other NANS faithful whose lives were offered on the altar of cluelessness of a nation seeking self-definition. I would have loved to join the army of friends, unionists and public office holders who have sent their deep regrets and say, that the soul of the FAITHFUL departed [emphasis on faithful] rest in due peace, but this would be a slap on the face of the departed. Though I want them to rest in peace, but saying “rest in peace” like every other person would not necessarily make them rest in peace, but acting against the vices that put them six feet beneath our feet would be the best feat to make them rest in peace. Lip regrets are only a disservice to the fallen meteors.

Lend me your ears, that I may bury my words in them, but more importantly your heart, that I may inscribe my thoughts on its walls, that we may safely transform our nation and put the departed to rest. For their sakes, do not turn on the deaf ears as I play from this drum of observation and intellect. For the sakes of the fallen, do not pretend to be blind as I extend these vices to your frontlet, for their sakes mind my words and tend to my advice, then together we shall take a handful of the sands of fulfilment and pour on their caskets as we bade them adios and watch them rest in sane peace.

Over the past week, I have been buried in the pool of pain and conflicting reports, I have been trying to scan all information gotten on the screen of truth to see which one comes through, like Abraham Lincoln advised, but almost to no avail. Some reported that the riot in the University of Uyo just led to the loss of life of a promising young Kingsley, while others said there were about three to six students who lost their dear lives in the plot. With respect to the attempted peacemakers (NANS Senate President and co.), who were victims of the road crash, some reported that the death was caused by a crash into a trailer; some said it was caused by police roadblocks, and some others opined that the crash emanated from the mood drinks taken by our departed faithful.

What report(s) to believe in this chronic media confusion is not my plan of action today, but the insanity that surrounds

the conscience of the people prevailed over consensus”. That is the real issue.

It is therefore puzzling that some governors who really took part in the election that produced Amaechi are latching on to a very questionable consensus when the ballot box has said it all. Having voted, its outcome takes precedence over whatever agreement previously arrived at by any other group. That is the only reasonable way to look at the matter.

But rather than accept the outcome of the election, some 16 governors who voted for Jang opted to float a parallel forum with Jang as their leader. They rented an office and have been holding their meeting there.

If this had come from some other quarters, perhaps we could have excused it. But since it involved chief executives of states, the matter becomes more puzzling. If anything, it casts the integrity of those governors in a very bad light. That is the point Delta state governor Emmanuel Uduaghan made when he said in a radio and television programme that the turn of events at that election has shaken the people’s confidence in them.

Hear him “I think we (governors) owe Nigerians apologies for the turn of events at the forum. We have no excuse for what has happened at the forum because the people expect so much from us.” Uduaghan has said it all even though he was one of those who pitched their tent with Jang after he failed to secure the mandate of his colleagues. The lamentations of the Delta State governor mirror vividly the inherent contradictions in the raging disputations over the authentic leader of the governors’ forum. And as

A note to NANS President

By Abolaji Adebayo corporate existence as Nigerian students. How we handle issues, when we react to apparent oppression and our overall responsiveness to the matters that affect us the most. We now fight the wrong enemies; we have become myopic in our dealings and now have a flare for dealing with frivolous issues. We run from pillar to post in a bid to cure ringworm even when leprosy has taken over our feeble existence.

Now to history’s lane. In 1961, the National Union of Nigerian Students [NUNS] protested against the decision of the Nigerian government to enter into Anglo-Nigeria defence pact with British government. The students saw it as selling the Nigerian birthright and resisted. The students involved were victimized by the government yet they took their stand.

This was a time when the student body which you head today influenced national and even international policies that were perceived capable of crippling our existence. This was a time when they knew that leprosy if not tackled will birth banes that are beyond the management of the ringworm killer.

These times are gone; our hobbies now lie in staining the pages of newspapers with baseless interviews and write-ups, with condolence messages of deaths that could be avoided, with complaints to the man who is trying to cut our toes, while applauding the one with a loaded rifle facing our forehead.

Over the past few years, the budgetary allocation towards Nigerian students has been extremely cruel. From 2006 to 2010, less than N300billion has been recurrently allocated to a sector, with much more going to security, yet we have our hands akimbo. In 2011, N1.592trillion [about 35%] was allocated to security, while education was ailing at less than 10% as though we live in a war ridden nation. Year 2012 was no different with 8.4% [394.58bn of 4.697trn]. The final deception came in 2013, when education was said to have got the highest allocation, with just 426.5bn which amounted to 11.489% of the national budget.

NUNS of 1961 could pre-empt the government, and act against policies perceived as harsh. The same could have applied to us if we could pre-empt all of this. The UNIUYO

he rightly argued, there is no excuse for what happened. There was no excuse for forming a splinter group despite the fact that things did not go the way some highly placed government functionaries wanted them. It is one thing to be dissatisfied with the outcome of that election and a different kettle of fish declare Jang the winner when such a declaration did not tally with the facts on the ground.

That is the very grave error those supporting Jang have committed. It would have been neater if those governors had stopped at rejecting the outcome of the election.

Had it been so, discussions will now focus on how to resolve the areas of difference. Now a loser has claimed he is the authentic leader having rented an office and recognized by the president, the matter has become more complicated and messy.

It is a mark of this mess that the sitting arrangement at last week’s National Economic Council NEC meeting had to be altered such that none of the disputants was recognized as the chairman. That is part of the monsters we create. But then, the NGF is a voluntary organization. Why it has attracted the kind of heat it is now generating can only be located with the ambit of partisan politics. It all has to do with the politics of 2015.

Otherwise what is there in that seemingly inconsequential organization that should make the rest of us lose sleep? But politics is involved and Jonathan’s desire for another term is at the centre of it all. Those who support Amaechi both from the opposition and the ruling party are all united by one goal.

And it is to ensure that Jonathan does not make it this time around. They could differ in their approaches but their goal is the same.

But more fundamentally, by attending the meeting summoned by Amaechi, those PDP governors have made a very bold statement.

They have said very unambiguously that the simmering schism within the PDP has come to stay. They are saying very boldly that they have a different political agenda that runs at cross purposes with that of Jonathan.

Viewed within this context, it becomes clearer why the crisis within the NGF will not easily abate. Being irretrievably tied to the politics of power shift, its fate will depend on the direction of the unfolding political competition. Whether Amaechi can appropriately fit into that change agent, is a matter for another day.

crisis which led to these avoidable deaths all began from N2,000 and N200 introduction of GST and transport fare respectively and the inhumane intervention of armed policemen in the university. If you as the head of NANS could make NANS stand firm on the policy of “no use of arms” within our institution by the police, all of this could be avoided. Besides, if the school was properly funded as it should be, and we could fight for our rightful 26% of the budget, the introduction of such fees may be impossible.

In 1983, students were expelled from the University of Maiduguri due to protest against the then Vice Chancellor, Prof. Jubril Aminu. This was taken up by late Chief Gani Fawehinmi (SAN) and the students were restored to the university. This was one of those NANS victories, but since the demise of the Senior Advocate of the Masses (SAM), NANS has not found it pertinent enough to find a worthy replacement and have someone like this that would be a fierce defence for us in the days of trouble.

Like Desmond Tutu said; “Don’t raise your voice, improve your argument”! I heard you were dealt with by Oyo State’s “operation burst” operatives, due to your intentions and deeds to barricade the road leading to UCH in a bid to shut down all of the nation’s universities. Though this is difficult to believe, but if any truth dwell in this then you are raising your voice, not improving your argument. We cannot achieve results by working on the impulses generated by these deaths without strategizing on how we can on a long term conquer these present realities.

Finally brother, I am sure I am not the first Nigerian student to write you, and may not be the last, but I plead with you, not to turn deaf ears on my feeble argument, let it not be another round of drums to the deaf or lightning to the blind.

Sieve it through and take what we both know can make Donald, Kingsley, Abdulazeez, Jerry, Japheth and Asa rest in perfect peace. As youths, Benjamin D’Israeli calls us the trustees of posterity; we are called to be architects of the future, not its victims.

• Adebayo writes from the University of Ibadan.

‘This was a time when the student body which you head today influenced national and even international policies that were perceived capable of crippling our existence’

THE NATION MONDAY, JULY 1, 2013

FEDERAL GOVERNMENT GIRLS COLLEGE, TAMBUWAL SOKOTO STATE INVITATION FOR TENDER FOR THE IMPLEMENTATION OF 2013 CAPITAL PROJECTS 1.0 INTRODUCTION The Federal Government of Nigeria has provided funds in the 2013 Appropriation for the Federal Government Girls’ College, Tambuwal (FGGC, Tambuwal) and is desirous to utilize part of the funds to procure GOODS and WORKS. Therefore services of experienced contractors are required to procure the following GOODS and WORKS as listed below: SECTION A: WORKS LOT 1: Construction and Furnishing of 5 Nos. 2 Bedroom flats, Staff Quarters.

LOT 2: Construction of Science Laboratory.

LOT 3: Construction of Home Economics Lab/Furnishing.

LOT 4: Construction of Storage Facilities.

LOT 5: Construction / Furnishing of Staff Room.

LOT 6: Construction of Sports facilities and provision of Equipments.

LOT 7: Construction of Internal Road Network.

LOT 8: Electricity Rectification.

LOT 9: Completion of Perimeter Fence: East Core.

LOT 10: Completion of Perimeter Fence: West Core.

LOT 11: Completion of Perimeter Fence: South Core.

SECTION B: GOODS LOT 12: Furnishing of Admin. Block LOT13: Procurement of Modern Text Books and Necessary Cataloging.

LOT 14: Procurement of Treated/Glossy Book Shelve (IRON TYPE) LOT 15: Procurement of Modern Reading Tables and Chairs.

LOT16: Procurement and Furnishing of Assistant Librarian and Procurement of Periodicals for referencing and Serial Section.

LOT 17: Procurement of Burglary Proof, Fire Extinguishers, Fire Harzard detectors, Curtain Blinds for Window and Ventilated Areas.

TENDERING REQUIREMENTS Interested and competent contractors wishing to carry out the above listed jobs are required to submit the following documents which will be subjected to due diligence by the College. (i).

Evidence of registration with Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC). (ii).

Evidence of Current Tax Clearance certificate for the last three (3) years ending in December, 2013. (iii). Evidence of VAT registration certificate with TIN No. (iv).

Evidence of issuance of compliance certificate to all organization by PENCOM in line with Pension Reform Act. 2004 (as amended). (v).

Evidence of Compliance with the amended Industrial Training Fund Act. 2011. (vi).

Bidders shall not Bid for more than 2 (two) Lots N.B: The above listed requirements shall form parts of the bids evaluation Criteria and non compliance with any of the stated conditions shall result fin automatic disqualification of the bidder). (vii). Name of Bankers with reference. (viii). Evidence of financial capability to execute the projects. (x).

Company profile with CVs of key officers including photocopies of relevant professional/technical qualification. (xi).

Evidence of registration with relevant professional bodies such as ARCON, COREN, CORBON, etc for Section A (Works component only). (xii). List of verifiable construction Equipment indicating ownership or lease agreement for Section A (Works Component only). (xiii). Verifiable evidence of successful completion of similar works within the past three (3) years and attached copies of letter of award and certificate of successful completion. (xiv). N.B. The contract will not be awarded to the least bidded contract.

N.B: The above criteria will attract marks).

Bidding will be conducted through National Competitive Bidding (NCB) procedure as specified in the 2007 Public Procurement Act. 3.0 COLLECTION OF DOCUMENTS 3.1 A complete set of Bidding Documents shall be collected by interested bidders at the College Premises, on the submission of written application accompanied by a non refundable tender fee of Twenty thousand Naira (N20,000.00) per lot.

The bidding documents will be collected by hand by bidder’s representative.

SUBMISSION OF TENDER DOCUMENTS 4.1 The completed Tender should be enveloped in two separate envelopes marked “Technical Bid” and “Financial Bid”, sealed waxed and marked on the Top left Hand corner with the inscription “Section (insert either A or B) Lot No.................. and Title of project” and should be addressed to the Principal, Federal Government Girls’ College, Tambuwal Sokoto State and deposited in the Tender Box at the address above on or before 12 noon on 1st July – 6th August, 2013. The name of the Contractor should also be clearly written in capital letter at the back of the envelopes late bids will be rejected.

5.0 PUBLIC OPENING OF BIDS 5.1 Technical Bids shall be opened immediately after close of submission in 4.1.

Above at the address below in the presence of the bidder’s representatives, officials of Federal Ministry of Housing, Land an Urban Development and interested members of the public. Only successful technical Bidders will be invited for the opening of Financial Bids at a later date.

Federal Government Girl’s College, Tambuwal Sokoto State.

6.0 DISCLAIMER AND CONCLUSION 6.1 The Federal Government Girls’ College, Tambuwal Sokoto State will not be responsible for any cost or expenses incurred by any interested party(ies) in connection with any response to this invitation and or the preparation or submission in response to an inquiry.

6.2 Please note that this advertisement shall not be construed as a commitment on the part of the College to award to any or all the above listed projects.

(SIGNED) DANJUMA, J.J. (MRS), PRINCIPAL. FEDERAL GOVERNMENT GIRLS’ COLLEGE, TAMBUWAL, SOKOTO STATE.

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BUSINESS

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THE NATION MONDAY, JULY 1, 2013

At the moment there is an average of about 18 hours per day of constant power supply to different parts of the country. This feat was brought about by the implementation of the integrated power sector reform programme anchored on the power roadmap.

- Minister of Information, Labaran Maku

THE NATION

E-mail:- bussiness@thenationonlineng.net

INSURANCE Fed Govt workers yet to get life cover

News Briefing LCCI flays Nigeria’s reliance on oil THE Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) has criticised the dependence of the government finances and external trade balances on proceeds from the petroleum sector.

- Page 22

‘Board failure cause of banks’collapse’ THE founder of Diamond Bank, Dr Pascal Dozie, has said the spate of banking failures witnessed in the country in the past was a reflection of the failure of the board of the banks.

- Page 22

Fortune Assurance’s licence revoked THE National Insurance Commission (NAICOM) has revoked the certificate of registration of Fortune Assurance Company Limited.

- Page 29 DATA STREAM COMMODITY PRICES Oil -$107/barrel Cocoa -$2,686.35/metric ton Coffee - ¢132.70/pound Cotton - ¢95.17pound Gold -$1,800/troy ounce Rubber -¢159.21pound MARKET CAPITALISATIONS NSE JSE NYSE LSE

-N7.560 trillion -Z5.112trillion -$10.84 trillion -£61.67 trillion

RATES Inflation 11.9% Treasury Bills 7.08% Maximum lending-22.42% Prime lending - 15.87% Savings rate 2% 91-day NTB 15% Time Deposit 5.49% MPR 12% Foreign Reserve $35.8b FOREX CFA 0.2958 EUR 206.9 £ 242.1 $ 156 ¥ 1.9179 SDR 238 RIYAL 40.472

THE CEO ‘Nigeria needs consistent policies to drive growth’ - P. 23

- P. 25

Why data on number portability is delayed, by NCC

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HE data collated so far on the Mobile Number Portability (MNP) scheme will not be released until the regulator is through with the nationwide registration of subscriber identification module (SIM) cards, The Nation has gathered.

Barring any extension, the exercise was billed to end yesterday, after which the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) would disconnect unregistered SIMs on the network.

NCC’s Director, Public Affairs, Tony Ojobo, said it had received data of the number of ported numbers on the network. He, however, said the Commission had not released the figure to the public because NCC was waiting for the registration to end.

By Lucas Ajanaku

“MNP is working. We are delighted by the result we are getting. Subscribers have real freedom to choose which network to use without the hazzles of losing their old number. It has engendered competition in the industry,” he said.

Chief Operating Officer, Interconnect Clearing House Nigeria Limited, Uche Onwudiwe, said the firm, which is the clearing house for the ported lines, releases data to the NCC. He said it has, nonetheless, forwarded data collated from the exercise to the NCC, which it reports to.

Ojobo said the Commission had been receiving reports from the public

Local ATM cards to work in West African countries

I

T will soon be possi ble for Ghanaian Au tomated Teller Machine (ATM) cards to work in outlets in Nigeria and in French speaking countries as well as Cape Verde.

This will be possible through the integration of the payment systems of Ghana, Nigeria, Cape Verde and the zone of West Africa Economic and Monetary Union (UEMOA).

Chief Executive of Ghana Inter-Bank Payment And Settlement System (GhIPSS), managers of Ghana’s payment system, Mr Archie Hesse, said Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) had planned to have a central West African payment platform.

He, however, said it was agreed that a pilot platform be rolled out by integrating the four payment systems, after which the remaining countries will be joined to a central platform.

The project, which is significantly advanced, according to Ghana Business News, is part of a central sub-regional payment system that is being driven by the ECOWAS. When the project is implemented fully, it is anticipated that it would boost cross border trade, as traders, businessmen and women as well other

travelers from the participating countries, can access money from their bank accounts back home using their local ATM cards.

Mr Hesse said in view of work already done, it was technically possible for local ATM cards from Ghana to work in the ATM outlets and point of sales devices in Nigerian, as well as Francophone West Africa and vice versa.

He explained that modalities to guide the settlement of the intercountry payments as well as other regulatory framework must be put in place before the system is made available to the general public.

According to Mr Hesse, Nigeria, Cape Verde and the UEMOA zone expressed the hope that the project takes off soon.

To ensure the early commencement of the payment systems, Mr Hesse said GhIPSS was asked to develop the governance and regulatory framework while GIM-UEMOA was asked to deal with the infrastructure and security framework.

The Nigeria Inter-Bank and Settlement System, on the other hand, were given the responsibility to develop marketing and commu ni ca t i on framework.

through responses from the subscribers, expressing intention to port their lines. He said on completion of the validation, harmonisation and scrubbing of the records of registered SIM cards, operators would be authorised to disconnect unregistered SIM cards from the networks.

This will be followed by the release of MNP report, he added.

The Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of NCC, Dr Ikemefuna Juwah, said the data collated from the operators would be sorted out.

“SIM card registration will come to an end very soon. We are collating data from the operators (and the agents commissioned by the NCC),” the EVC said.

AfDB spends N100b on Nigeria’s infrastructure

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HE African Develop ment Bank (AfDB) has spent N100.8billion ($630million) on financing various infrastructural projects in the country in the last five years.

Its Country Representative in Nigeria, Dr Ousmane Dore, who disclosed this to The Nation, explained that the money was spent on water, transport and energy sectors of the economy.

He said the bank spent $250 million on water projects, $230million on transport and $150 million on the energy over the past five years.

As part of the bank’s growth plans, he said AfDB would focus on infrastructure financing in the next five years.

He said: “The bank is expected to remain focused on infrastructure financing over the next five years, including

By Akinola Ajibade

road transport through a budget support operation of $300 million recently approved. The bank is also looking at a situation whereby it would support agriculture, the power sector (partial-risk guarantees), urban transport, financial sector, private sector operations (Indorama fertilizer, Lekki Port, Lagos Cable Car) and governance/ public financial management.”

According to him, Agricultural Transformation Support Programme (ATASP) was introduced by the bank to develop the agricultural sector and the economy in particular. He explained that partial-risk guarantee is a guarantee initiated to assist investors to finance certain power projects.

THE NATION MONDAY, JULY 1, 2013

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BUSINESS NEWS Flight Schedule MONDAY - FRIDAY

LAGOS – ABUJA Departure Arrival 1. Aero 06.50 08.10 2. Associated 07.00 09.30 3. Air Nigeria 07.00 08.20 4. IRS 07.00 08.20 7. Arik 07.15 08.15 7. Chanchangi 07.15 9. Air Nigeria 08.15 09.35 10. Aero 08.45 10.05 11. Arik 09.15 10.15 12. Chanchangi 10.00 11.00 13. IRS 11.15 12.35 14. Aero 12.20 13.30 15. Air Nigeria 13.25 14.45 16. Chanchangi 13.30 14.30 17. Arik 13.45 14.45 18. IRS 14.00 15.20 19. Aero 14.10 15.30 20. Air Nigeria 14.50 16.10 21. Chanchangi 15.30 16.30 22. Arik 15.50 16.50 23. Aero 16.00 17.20 24. IRS 16.30 17.50 25. Arik 16.50 17.50 26. Chanchangi 17.30 18.30 27. Air Nigeria 17.35 18.55 29. Air Nigeria (T/TH) 18.30 19.50 20. Arik 18.45 19.45 31. Aero 19.20 20.40

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LAGOS – CALABAR 07.30 11.20 12.50 16.00 LAGOS – JOS 10.55 11.15

LAGOS – KADUNA Aero 08.00 Chanchangi 10.00 Arik 10.00 Arik 15.10

08.30 09.10 11.50 12.45 13.40 15.20 16.30 16.40 08.50 12.40 14.10 17.20

LCCI flays Nigeria’s reliance on oil

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HE Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) has criticised the dependence of the government finances and external trade balances on proceeds from the petroleum sector.

It said this development has exposed the nation to significant risks from global oil price and production shocks.

LCCI President, Mr Goodie Ibru, said the evolving global energy market dynamics suggest an urgent need to take a sober look at the oil and gas subsector in particular and the energy sector in general.

He said: “Despite the declining contribution to the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), currently at 14.7 per cent, the extreme dependence of government finances and external trade balances on proceeds from the sector exposes the nation to significant risks from oil price and production shocks.

“There are profound concerns over dwindling performance of the sector, which has been attributed to the structural gaps in its regulatory, fiscal and business practices, which have supported high inefficiencies.”

He said the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB), adjudged the most

By Toba Agboola

significant attempt to address these challenges through the reform of the governance and business structure of the sector as well as resolution of fiscal issues, is yet to see the light of the day.

The LCCI bos said from 18.89 per cent in the first quarter of 2009, oil contribution to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) has fallen to 14.7 per cent by the first quarter of the year, stressing that the risk of a glut in the global oil market, is potentially detrimental to Nigeria.

He said: “The international oil market landscape is changing very fast and eroding the competitive value of Nigeria’s oil and gas. First, the number of countries discovering oil and gas reserves within their national boundaries is increasing; thus expanding the supply base of oil and gas products in the international market. Also, improvement in refining technology is helping to eradicate the difference between the Nigeria light crude and the other types of crude oil; a feature that reduced the price premium on Nigerian’s bonny light for

many years.

“Countries in East Africa and West Africa including Ghana, Liberia, Sierra Leone, Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania have discovered large oil reserves and have started oil production. Vast natural gas resources have also been discovered in South Africa, Mozambique offshore, Namibia and Botswana.

Additional discovery in an offshore oilfield in Angola will potentially make the country the largest oil producer in Africa, ahead of Nigeria. Furthermore, oil exploration in Madagascar, Seychelles, Ethiopia and Somalia is under way.

“Outside the African continent, Israel discovered natural gas reserves off its Mediterranean shores in late 2010, which led to the discovery that the entire eastern Mediterranean is endowed with huge untapped oil and gas reserves.”

Ibru said the domestic and international issues facing the oil and gas sector pose both risks and opportunities for the economy.

He added that the greatest risk is the potential shock to fiscal sustainability if the global oil price slumps at a time when Nigeria’s oil output is declining.

12.15 12.45 09.10 11.00 11.10 16.20

LAGOS – OWERRI Aero 07.30 Arik 07.30 Air Nigeria 13.40 Arik 14.00 Arik 16.30

08.40 08.40 14.55 15.10 17.40

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LAGOS – KANO Air Nigeria 07.10 IRS 08.00 Arik 12.20 IRS 14.00 IRS 18.15

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LAGOS – MAIDUGURI 1. IRS 11.15 13.15 2. Arik 15.50 18.00 LAGOS – ILORIN 1. Overland 07.15 2. Arik (M/T/TH/F) 17.30

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LAGOS – ABUJA SAT/SUN Arik 7.15; 10.20; 2.20; 5.20pm – 7.30; 9.15; 10.20; 2.20; 4.50; 6.45 Aero 07.30; 09.35; 13.10; 14.50; 20.20 – 07.30; 09.35; 13.10; 14.50; 20.20 Air Nigeria 08.15; 14.30; 17.15; 18.30 – 08.15; 13.30; 14.30; 17.15; 18.30

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FRICAN Glass (Nigeria) Limited is planning to spend $80 million on expansion of its glass businesses in Nigeria, it was learnt.

The company, which is sole producer of opaque glass in Nigeria, said it intends to set up a state of the art float glass plant.

The spokesperson of the company, Uche Iwuamadi, said with the planned expansion, the plant will have a capacity of 500 tonnes per day.

He said the company and its European consultant completed a market study six months ago and would locate the new plant in Ogun State.

“The state-of-the-art technology will be provided by a European supplier; negotiations are at the final stage,” she added.

He continued: “The $80 million investment would be the first step in their diversification into the float glass production arena to supply the Nigerian and West African markets.

“African Glass currently supplies glass for construction domestically and to neighbouring ECOWAS countries. He said the size of the investment demonstrates the lasting commitment of African Glass to the industrial development of Nigeria in spite of the constraints on power and natural gas supplies, as well as the import of material from China and the logistical difficulties associated with both raw material supply and the delivery of finished product.

“African Glass is an affiliate of African Industries, a diverse manufacturing group with long standing experience in Nigeria. African Industries operates in the steel, chemicals, power and glass industries and employs a multicultural work force of 4000 people.”

Chevron to stop gas flaring by 2016

LAGOS – PORT HARCOURT (CIVIL) 1. Aero 07.15 08.35 2. Arik 07.15 08.35 3. Arik 09.00 10.20 4. Aero 10.50 12.30 5. Arik 11.40 13.00 6. Air Nigeria 12.00 13.10 7. IRS 13.30 15.00 8. Arik 14.00 15.20 9. Air Nigeria 16.00 17.10 10 Arik 16.10 17.30 11. Aero 16.15 17.30 12. Arik 17.10 18.30 1.

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African Glass votes $80m for expansion

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•From left: Chairman, Committee of Chief Compliance Officers of Banks in Nigeria (CCCOBIN) and Chief Compliance Officer, Access Bank, Mr Pattison Boleigha; Executive Director, Operations and Technology, Keystone Bank Limited, Mr Ademola Adewale; and CCCOBIN Vice Chairman and Chief Compliance Officer, Standard Chartered Bank, Mr Olusiji Adeyinka, at a meeting of CCCOBIN in Lagos.

Board failure cause of banks’collapse, says Dozie HE founder of Diamond becomes too “autocratic to the

T

Bank, Dr Pascal Dozie, has said the spate of banking failures in the country in the past was a reflection of the failure of the board of the banks.

Dozie, who is Chairman of MTN Nigeria, spoke at a Stakeholders’ consultative forum on guidelines for corporate governance in the telecommunications industry organised by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).

It has as theme Board leadership and governance.

He said people who take board’s appointment should see such opportunity as a “sacred call to service.”

He stressed that being a director is not a tea party.

According to him, directors must see themselves as playing pivotal roles in the success of the company, arguing that should things go wrong, the board

By Lucas Ajanaku

should be held responsible. This, he said, is because the board performs oversight functions in the company.

He said the Company and Allied Matters Act (CAMA) states how a board should be constituted, adding that it is the duty of the board to appoint one among its members to serve as its chairman.

Dozie said the chairman has a great role to play as he has the onerous task of motivating the board and ensuring that decisions are implemented because time is a scarce resource.

He said the leadership of the board of any company is a sine qua non to its success as it determines whether the company swims or sinks.

He added that if a chairman

chagrin of the directors,” voting him out becomes an open option.

He said for effective communication, it is imperative that the chief executive officer of companies remain part of the board, adding that the helmsman would not have an excuse not to implement policies agreed upon at the management level.

On the level of compliance with corporate governance in the country, he said it would be difficult to assess, adding that the big firms were complying.

He, however, said it does not necessarily have to be corporate governance, insisting that all that is needed to be done is to follow the provisions of CAMA by managing the companies well and avoiding promoting people through looking ethnicity or nepotism.

By Emeka Ugwuanyi

HEVRON Nigeria Limited (CNL) will stop routine gas flaring from its operations in Nigeria by 2016, the oil giant has said.

It said it has been working hard to ensure that it doesn’t exceed that date and is carrying out strategic capital investments with its joint venture, the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation to (NNPC) to build gas projects.

Some of the major gas projects, include the Escravos Gas Project (EGP), West African Gas Pipeline and Escravos Gas-to-Liquids (EGTL).

Elimination of routine gas flaring, the company noted, will also boost its commitment to safe, green environment to which it contributed N59 million last year in Nigeria alone.

In its 2012 Corporate Responsibility Report, Chevron said it had achieved success in its flares out programme with a one-third reduction in its routine flares from 2008 to 2012.

It said: “CNL is committed to eliminating routine gas flaring within its operations. The company has adopted an environmental performance standard in the management of routine flaring and venting and is executing specific capital projects to address and eventually eliminate routine flares.”

The company noted that with the ongoing strategy, 2016 flares out target would be accomplished.

Besides the flares reduction recorded from 2008 to 2012, Chevron said it has also achieved flares out in the offshore Okan and Meji fields and is on track to achieve flares out in the Escravos onshore area by end of this year.

The company also said it had made the responsible management of environmental issues an integral part of its core business.

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THE NATION MONDAY, JULY 1, 2013

THE CEO

‘Nigeria needs consistent policies to drive growth’

• Olanipekun

Olatunde Olanipekun, executive director, Finance, Fidson Healthcare Plc, is an economist, chartered accountant and tax consultant. In this interview with Capital Market Editor TAOFIK SALAKO, he speaks on Nigeria’s industrial prospects, challenges facing manufacturers and the conversion to the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), among other issues.

W

HAT’S your assessment of the operating environment?

The business environment in Nigeria has always been tough because of its competitiveness. We have all kinds of companies operating in the industry. The challenges of business operations are also not helped by the insurgency in some parts of the country. We might also want to consider the challenge of infrastructure, which is a critical aspect of operating businesses in Nigeria; talking about electricity, road networks and the likes.

Businesses in Nigeria are also faced with various policy changes and somersaults periodically. It is difficult for operators to know what is going to happen in the nearest future, at any given time because we have government agencies giving different interpretations to policies. There are a lot of issues to contend with within

Profile •Institutions attended

Lagos Business School, Lagos; Irish Management Institute, Dublin, Ireland; Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), IleIfe, Osun State.

Qualification

BSc (Economics)

•Previous positions

Executive Director, Finance and Admin, Evans Medical Plc.

•Present position

Executive Director, Finance, Fidson Healthcare Plc.

Professional associations

Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN).

•Experience

Over 30 years.

the business terrain that make the environment very tough for businesses to thrive.

How has the security situation in parts of the country affected operations?

The security situation, particularly in the northern part of the country, has affected our business operations because about 20 per cent of our business is from that part. This has resulted in a major

shortfall in the company’s revenue since the northern market is one of the company’s major markets. As a result-oriented organisation, we are left with no option but to devise ways of making up for the shortfall in order to meet our target for the year. That has been the company’s biggest challenge because at the end of the day, you won’t go and tell your shareholders that because of the insurgencies in the North you cannot deliver or pay dividends. So the onus lies on us to go back to the drawing board and strategise the way around it.

What are the other peculiar challenges being faced by manufacturers, especially in the healthcare sector?

Of course, the most often repeated complaint is about the state of our infrastructure. As I said earlier, the state of infra•Continued on page 24

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THE NATION MONDAY, JULY 1, 2013

THE CEO

‘Nigeria needs consistent policies to drive growth’ •Continued from page 23

structure in Nigeria is getting worse by the day. The situation has got to a stage where you have to be your own government in order to remain in business. By this I mean as a business owner, you have to virtually generate your own power and build your own roads. For instance, the road to our new factory in Sango-Ota is in a terrible shape. We face problems trying to transport goods there. The level of insecurity generally is a major concern; all these factors at one point or the other come together to affect the company’s operations.

How can real sector’s productivity be enhanced?

There are several things that can be done to motivate the real sector, but more importantly is the need for consistency in government policy, which is generally understood by everybody and not subject to different interpretation. This policy inconsistency is a fundamental issue that must be addressed by government and its agencies.

Then in terms of tariff, the real sector can be encouraged in several ways. Yes, pharmaceutical industry enjoys some level of protection in terms of tariff, but it is not all embracing. Apart from the fact that it is not all embracing, some of them are not very clear. There is no country in the world that does not protect its local industry especially in the area of taxation. But in Nigeria, there is multiplicity of taxes.

Again, the state of infrastructure should be improved upon by government. In other parts of the world, companies don’t bother about basic infrastructures like electricity, water, good roads and others, but here in Nigeria, we bother about all of these things that should have been there, yet we are made to compete with our foreign counterparts who don’t face these difficulties. This also explains why sometimes imports come in cheaper than Nigerian products. Their processes are supported and subsidised by their government. They are also provided with the right operating environment to manufacture.

What are your concerns about the future outlook of the pharmaceutical businesses.

What possible risks can you foresee in the horizon?

Looking at the pharmaceutical industry in Nigeria, the future is looking good because of the activities of the regulatory bodies. NAFDAC and other regulatory bodies have been doing a whole lot to bring about positive change in the industry and if they continue with the way they are performing, the activities of counterfeiters for instance will be reduced significantly. Then local manufacturers will continue to thrive and we can confidently say that the future is good.

Most importantly, the government must deliberately patronise local products.

Companies spend a lot of money putting facilities together to manufacture products and yet the government won’t patronise them. Considering that government is the biggest spender in this part of the world; if the biggest spender is not patronising the local industries, companies end up scrambling for the remaining crumbs coming from other interests.

So the Federal, State and Local government should make deliberate efforts, by way of policies to patronise local manufacturers, so that indigenous companies can grow and the industry will develop significantly. When the government shows confidence in the home industry by patronising its products, other foreign companies who have interest in embarking on support projects in Nigeria will find it easy to patronise the home industry. But in a situation where the government finds it difficult to patronise the home industry, how do you expect foreigners to do so.

What are you doing at Fidson to mitigate future risks and enhance shareholders’ returns?

What we do is to continue to improve on our efficiency and productivity. As an innovative company, we are trying to diversify our product portfolios by developing new products through research and development and also bring in new innovations. For instance, recently we just

• Olanipekun

‘In other parts of the world, companies don’t bother about basic infrastructures like electricity, water, good roads and others, but here in Nigeria, we bother about all of these things that should have been there, yet we are made to compete with our foreign counterparts who don’t face these difficulties’

• Olanipekun

launched our Cestra range of products which are nutraceuticals; and we have the herbal products range too. The company is generally expanding its product portfolio. The Biotech plant, which is near

completion, is also a way to grow our business. We are always looking at every opportunity to improve on our efficiency, cost control and other things to ensure that we put up superior perform-

ance for the benefit of our shareholders.

In view of these plans and ideas, is Fidson considering raising new capital?

That is a plan for the future, but talking about the immediate, we are trying to consolidate on achieving values for our business. Of course to a certain level, it will come to a time that we will have to expand our capital base and then we can go to the market to raise money. But we will want to do so at the right time when we can be sure of bringing in good value to the company both in terms of financials and performance. The investors can see that they are buying into a good company with sustainable growth.

Certainly we are considering raising money but not in the immediate.

How has the conversion to the IFRS been?

The conversion to the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) has been an eye opener. Well, there have been challenges in the process, but the benefits far out-weigh the challenges we may want to talk about. It is all about being transparent and explaining in more details the facts and the figures, so that reports will not be subjected to any subjective interpretations.

I believe this will open our businesses to foreign investors because they will be able to assess us more objectively and compare us with other businesses around the world. It is getting to a point when the entire world will be reporting in the same way and Nigeria cannot be an exception.

In the light of the general operating environment and the peculiarities of the healthcare sector, what are the prospects for Fidson in the immediate, medium to long term?

We are recording consistent growth year in year out because we have worked out our own strategy to deal with the challenges facing us. As I said earlier, we cannot continue to complain about the challenges, instead we just have to look for a way to work around them and still achieve the set business objectives, and this we have been able to do well and have continued to deliver on our promises to the stakeholders.

Going by our past records, we can say that we have mastered ways of handling difficult situations. We can only strive to make things better and continue on our path of sustainable growth. Our Biotech plant which is gradually drawing close to completion is one of our major plans for the future. It is our expectation that the Biotech plant will enhance our business in terms of capacity and revenue.

Talking about the long term, with the direction we are moving in now, in terms of our business approach, we are confident that there will be significant improvement in our operations and productivity, as well as remarkable growth in our revenue ; of course barring any unforeseen political situation which can affect the country’s economic environment.

What are you doing to enhance investors’ relations and make the board and management accountable to shareholders beyond the annual general meeting?

Fidson Healthcare Plc generally interacts with shareholders. We maintain a very cordial relationship with them and from time to time, we reach out to them.

We also make sure that our business operation is transparent. The company also reports its activities to the world so that at every point in time, the public get to know what we are doing. We also have periodic sessions with the shareholders associations to discuss our activities, progress and also share our challenges with them. So our activities are open to public scrutiny.

We also have committees of the board which covers all the broad aspects of our organisation. Statutory regulations have made it compulsory to have various committees that must report to the board. We also have a vibrant audit committee that is made up of knowledgeable external shareholders. They meet regularly to subject our books to scrutiny, monitor our operations and give suggestions on how we can improve generally.

25

THE NATION MONDAY, JULY 1, 2013

INSURANCE

Fed Govt workers yet to get group life cover F

EDERAL Government workers are yet to be covered under the Group Life Insurance Scheme for this year as required by the Pension Reform Act 2004.

The Act states in Section 9(3) that employers shall maintain life insurance policy in favour of their employes for “a minimum of three times the annual total emolument of the employee”.

This implies that dependents of deceased government workers in Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), such as the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Federal Ministry of Education, and Federal Ministry of Justice, Federal Ministry of Power, among others, who die in active service are not eligible to get compensation.

This is in line with the enforcement of the ‘No premium, No cover policy’ directive of the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM).

This development, sources said, might have forced the Nigeria Police that have in recent times been recording heavy casualties as a result of security challenges in the country, to opt out of the scheme.

Although the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation is yet to request for life insurance cover for the workers, the Federal Government owes premiums of N3billion and N4billion for Group Life purchased in 2011 and 2012.

Last year, the Federal Government had directed the former Head of Service of the Federation, Isa Bello Sali, to pay outstanding premiums for last year’s group life assurance scheme. But up till today, the money has not been paid.

Stating reasons the premiums have not been paid, the new Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Bukar Aji, said: “What caused the six-month delay in the payment of workers’ insurance policy premium for the 2012 financial year was because my office could not secure on time the certification from the Due Process Office, which was required for the payment.”

He explained that the process of payment of the group life insurance for the federal workers had changed, adding that it is being handled by the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation.

According to him, the Federal Executive Council (FEC) had approved payment of insurance premium through the office of the AGF. Aji said the Office of the Head of Service had forwarded a letter to that effect to President Goodluck Jonathan for approval and

• Govt owes 2011, 2012 premium

Stories by Omobola Tolu-Kusimo

was asked to revert to the earlier approval of FEC for the Office of the AGF to pay.

He, however, said the government was ready to pay the outstanding N7 billion premium for 2011 and 2012.

According to him, the government prioritised the welfare of its employees, adding that the insurance cover would serve as an encouragement for families of deceased workers.

He said the government had to manage available resources in the light of competing demands.

Speaking on the provision for this year’s life insurance, Aji said: “There will be cover for the workers this year. What we have in the appropriation bill for 2013 insurance cover is N11billion. The total outstanding premium for 2011 and 2012 is about N7billion; that is, N4billion for 2012 and N3billion for N2011.

“The way it is done is that the Ministry of Finance gives the instruction to DirectorGeneral (DG) of the Budget Office and the DG sends it to the Accountant-General’s office; the Accountant-General releases the funds to the HOS and the HOS pays into the respective insurers’ bank accounts and all that. ”So, it is just a question of electronically

NAICOM revokes Fortune Assurance’s licence • Advises policy holders on Bendel Insurance

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HE National Insurance Commission (NAICOM) has revoked the certificate of registration of Fortune Assurance Company Limited.

It said the revocation of the licence of the firm took effect from June 14, warning members of the public against dealing in any of the company’s properties without recourse to the commission The Commissioner for Insurance, Mr Fola Daniel, said it has also started the process of releasing money received by the company from Suffolk Petroluem Services Limited as deposit for shares during the failed recapitalisation of the company in 2007. It added that correspondence relating to Fortune Assurance Limited (in-liquidation) be addressed to the commissioner.

The commission also advised insured with claims against Bendel Insurance Limited and other stakeholders to contact the receiver and liquidator of the company.

NAICOM cancelled the certificate of registration of the company.

It stated that Felix Imagbe Oboh Esq. of Oboh & Associates was appointed as the Receiver/Liquidator to wind up the affairs of the company.

• Daniel

• Aji

• President Jonathan

instructing the Office of the AccountantGeneral to pay so that it can reduce the time deployed to process it. But whether the full premium for this year would be paid or not depended on the level of revenue generation and inflow to the Federal Government.”

President Jonathan, while swearing in Aji at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, noted that the civil service was central to the realisation of his administration’s Transformation Agenda.

He charged him to work towards curtailing corruption and enhancing discipline in the service.

He said his government and Nigerians expect Aji to focus on those areas that are most important to the people.

Octogenarian and industrial giant, Deacon Gamaliel Onosode told The Nation in Lagos recently that the payment of a premium is a contractual obligation.

His words: “When you enter into a contract, you must discharge your responsibility under that contract to an individual or the public you had a contract with. It does not matter what the contract is but it is designed to deliver some hope to the individual or the public as the case may be. So, if you don’t keep up to the contract terms, then it means you are not being fair to those

whom you have entered into the contract with. ”The insurance of workers is a matter of contract. If you choose not to go the route of contract but you want to bear the cost yourself, that is your choice. So, if the Federal Government wants to charge the cost of making good the loss or damage a worker experiences and wants to reflect that in his budget rather than the premium to pay to an insurer, those are two choices you must choose from.”

The Director-General, Nigeria Insurers Association, Mr Sunday Thomas, said the government needs to adjust to the dispensation.

“This is the first year of deliberate effort to enforce no premium, no cover by NAICOM and all we can hope for is that it should get better in future,” he said.

The Managing Director, Scib Insurance Brokers, Mr Shola Tinubu, said the law has made it the responsibility of the employer to ensure that his employees are insured for stipulated benefit.

He noted that if for any reason, the employer does not insure his workers, such employer has contravened the law.

“But what do we do when government is concerned as the employer in this case and when it had ample notice?

“The commissioner for insurance had done publicity about ‘no premium no cover’, which is not a new rule. NAICOM did not reinvent the rules, it was the law that was already in existence that they are implementing. NAICOM also set up a forum where its officials discussed with government institutions and desk officers. They told them cover was going to be strictly no premium, no cover in advance and things that needed to be done.”

According to him, at the end, the private sector responded appropriately because they do not think they are above the law and they know they need to comply.

“But what can we do if the government institutions refuse to comply with the law also passed by an arm of government?

“There is really nothing we can do but they are still culpable. They are still responsible because people die in service and they must ensure benefits are paid.

“As an industry and as a people, we should understand that if we watch a general problem continue and fester because it is not affecting us at that particular point in time, it may become a big problem to us in the future hence the need to address the challenge now,” he said.

The six costliest wildfires

L

AST year, almost 70,000 wildfires burned up 9.3million acres in the United States.

That’s 14,531 square miles, roughly the size of New Jersey, Connecticut and most of Delaware combined.

Insured losses totaled $595million, and total economic losses topped $1.1 billion, according to Munich Re. This year’s wildfire season is already off to a grim start, with the Black Forest Fire near Colorado Springs destroying some 500 homes and killing two people in June.

Costliest wildfires As recovery begins in Colorado, here’s a look at the 10 costliest wildfires in U.S. history through last year. Data is from the Property Claim Services Unit of ISO and the Rocky Mountain Insurance Information Association. Dollar amounts are adjusted for inflation through 2011, except for the 2012 Waldo Canyon Fire.

1. Fourmile Canyon Fire, Colorado, September 6-13, 2010: $214m An ember that blew out of a resident’s fire pit ignited the Fourmile Canyon Fire outside of Boulder and hot, dry winds spread the blaze quickly through rugged terrain. The fire burned 6,000 acres, forced 3,000 residents to evacuate and destroyed 168 homes. No lives were lost, a feat credited to the preparedness of Boulder County and the local fire dis-

tricts.

2. Waldo Canyon Fire, Colorado, June 23-July 5, 2012: $352.6m The fire near Colorado Springs started as firefighters were still trying to gain the upper hand with the High Park Fire near Fort Collins, 130 miles to the north. The two fires led to the most expensive wildfire season in the state’s history. The Waldo Canyon Fire destroyed 347 homes and damaged 46 others. Two people died. Investigators say the fire was caused by humans but don’t know who did it or if it was intentional.

3. Santa Barbara Fire, California, June 27-July 2, 1990: $416m Also known as the Painted Cave Fire, the blaze started above the city and sped down the hills. At U.S. 101, the flames jumped the highway and raced toward the Pacific Ocean.

One woman who tried to find safety in a creek died, and more than 500 homes went up in smoke. A decade later, Santa Barbara County successfully sued a local artisan who was accused of starting the fire in an ongoing feud with a rural neighbor. He denied the charges, but his land was later auctioned off to pay the county.

4. Orange County Fire, California, Oct. 27-28, 1993: $507m Propelled by the hot, dry Santa Ana winds, this fire started in the brush above Laguna Beach and

barreled down the canyons to the Pacific Ocean. The blaze, also known as the Laguna Beach fire, destroyed 366 homes. Investigators suspected arson, but the crime remains unsolved.

5. Bastrop County Complex Fire, Texas, Sept. 4-9, 2011: $530m Almost 1,700 homes and businesses were destroyed in the Bastrop County Complex Fire in the small community 30 miles southeast of Austin. Economic losses were the largest per capita in the nation’s history. Two people died in the fire. Investigators say the blaze ignited after a dead pine tree fell against a power line and sparks fell into dry brush.

6. Los Angeles County Fire, California, Nov. 2-3, 1993: $543m Also known as the Old Topanga Fire, the blaze started in brush near the water tower on Old Topanga Canyon Road and then quickly raged out of control in the rugged Santa Monica Mountains just north of Malibu. By noon the flames moved into Malibu, and wind drove the fire into the coastal canyons. Every state west of the Continental Divide sent resources to help fight the fire, the largest mobilization of emergency resources in history at that time.

Three people lost their lives, and 388 homes and businesses were destroyed.

• Tips by insure.com

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EQUITIES WATCH

Email: taofad2000@yahoo.co.uk

30 Best Performing Stocks H1 2013

Six-month period ended June 30, 2013

Ups and downs of first half Most equities closed the first half on the upside but investors in some stocks got better returns, Taofik Salako reports.

T

HE stock market recorded an average return of about 28.8 per cent in

the first half of this year. This implies some N2.45 trillion in capital gains for the sixmonth period.

Aggregate market value of all equities on the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) closed the first half at N11.426 trillion as against its value-on-board of N8.974 trillion that

started the year, representing an increase of 27.3 per cent. The All Share Index (ASI), which doubles as benchmark index for all equities on the NSE and country index for Nigeria, rose from 2013’s opening index of 28,078.81 points to close the first half at 36,164.31 points.

The performance of the market was driven mainly by improved earnings re-

ports and prospective business opportunities in restructuring companies. Livestock Feeds Plc, which topped the best-performing list with a return of 278.47 per cent, undertook a business combination with UAC of Nigeria (UACN) Plc. The acquisition of Livestock Feeds is expected to unlock significant opportunity for the agroallied company. It is expected that the ac-

20 Worst Performing Stocks H1 2012

Six-month period ended June 30, 2013

quisition would create a new catalyst that would allow Livestock Feeds to penetrate new markets as well as deepen its presence in existing markets. Evans Medical, which recorded the second highest return of 208.05 per cent, made a remarkable turnaround from loss position to profit. It has recommended a dividend per share of five kobo, its first payout in recent years.

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EQUITIES NIGERIAN STOCK EXCHANGE DAILY SUMMARY AS AT 28- 06-13

Investors gain N2.45tr, 28.8% in first half T HE stock market recorded a six-month average return of about 28.8 per cent in the first half of this year, leaving investors with N2.45 trillion in capital gains during the period.

Notwithstanding the downtrend that characterised June, significant successive bullish rallies in previous months still left equities as one of the best-performing market during the period.

In value terms, the increase of N2.45 trillion in the first half has already surpassed total gains of N2.44 trillion recorded for the entire 2012. However, the real benchmark return of 28.80 per cent is some 6.65 percentage points below the average full-year return of 35.45 per cent recorded in 2012.

Aggregate market value of all equities on the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) closed the first half at N11.426 trillion as against its value-on-board of N8.974 trillion that started the year, representing an increase of 27.3 per cent.

The All Share Index (ASI), which doubles as benchmark index for all equities

By Taofik Salako

on the NSE and country index for Nigeria, rose from 2013’s opening index of 28,078.81 points to close the first half at 36,164.31 points.

The first-half performance was moderated by the downtrend in the latter half of June, which saw the month closing as the most bearish month with a loss of N649 billion. Equities had shown brighter performance in the first five months with a whooping capital gains of N3.10 trillion. Aggregate market capitalisation of all equities had closed May at N12.075 trillion, while the ASI had indicated a fivemonth average return of 34.6 per cent.

NSE’s data showed that the industrial goods stocks remained the best-performing subgroup during the first half. NSE Industrial Goods Index showed a six-month average return of 49.12 per cent.

Ethical investors fared better as NSE-Lotus Islamic Index indicated a return of 42.31 per cent. NSE 30 Index, which tracks 30 most capitalised stocks, posted a first half re-

turn of 27.38 per cent. NSE Consumer Goods Index showed a return of 21.40 per cent. NSE Banking Index showed average return of 18.46 per cent while NSE Insurance Index indicated a return of 16.90 per cent. The NSE Oil and Gas Index showed that downstream investors recorded modest return of 12.18 per cent.

Meanwhile, total turnover last week stood at 2.46 billion shares worth N24.23 billion in 33,402 deals. The financial services sector topped the activity chart with a turnover of 1.43 billion shares valued at N14.74 billion in 19,063 deals.

The trio of Transnational Corporation of Nigeria Plc, United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc and Portland Paints & Products Nigeria Plc were the most active stocks, accounting for a total of 940.73 million shares worth N3.85 billion in 2,668 deals, 38.3 per cent of total turnover for the week.

Week-on-week, the ASI declined by 0.82 per cent last week while aggregate market value of equities dropped by 2.46. There were 47 decliners during the week as against 35 advancers. The NSE also concluded the first half review of its indices, replacing less vibrant stocks with emerging dominant stocks. In the banking subgroup, Sterling Bank displaced FCMB Group to become one of the selected stocks for the banking index.

NIGERIAN STOCK EXCHANGE DAILY SUMMARY AS AT 28- 06-13

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MONEY LINK

T

Shareholders back Sterling Bank’s N12.5b rights issue

HE ongoing right issue of Sterling Bank Plc has kicked off to a resounding success as individual retail shareholders and shareholders’ groups have indicated interests in picking up their rights and mobilising other shareholders to support the recapitalisation programme of the bank.

A broad section of shareholders’ groups, representations and individuals interviewed in relation to the rights issue said they would pick up their rights and mobilie others to take advantage of what they described as “a window of opportunity”. Several shareholders indicated they would demand for additional shares, raising prospects of oversubscription.

The support from non-core shareholders strengthen the prospects for the rights issue, which had earlier received firm commitments from major Nigerian and foreign shareholders including the State Bank of India, Dr. Mike Adenuga, Alhaji Suleiman Adegunwa’s Ess-ay Investments Limited and other directors.

Sterling Bank is raising N12.5 billion through a rights issue of about 5.889 billion ordinary shares of 50 kobo each at N2.12 per share. The lender had traded at a high of N3.05 at the stock market. The shares have been pre-allotted on the basis of three new ordinary shares of 50 kobo each for every eight ordinary shares of 50 kobo each held as at May 20, 2013.

The application list, which opened on June 24, 2013, will run until July 31, 2013 According to the President, Association for the Advancement of Rights of Nigerian Shareholders (AARNS), Dr. Faruk Umar, the rights issue came at the right time and at the right price. He also noted that the historic performance of the bank, as exemplified by the impressive results and

By Taofik Salako

dividends for the 2012 business year, has made it a toast of investors.

“We are going to invest in the bank; the rights’ price is a bonus to shareholders because even at the market price, the bank is grossly undervalued. There is a strong possibility of a double in the price in the next two years,” Umar said.

Leading shareholders rights’ activist, Nonah Awoh, said the board should make arrangements for oversubscription given the mood of the investors and general perception of the bank at the stock market.

He said the profit and return forecasts of the bank, though conservative, imply a huge inflow of over 50 per cent return from dividend payments alone in five years, noting the positive relation between such huge payouts and capital gains at the stock

market.

President, Progressive Shareholders Association of Nigeria (PSAN), Mr. Boniface Okezie, said the rights issue would lay another strong foundation for future growth, noting that additional funds would allow the bank to increase lending to the real sector and further contribute to national economic growth.

According to him, increased lending and expansion would lead to increased returns to shareholders.

Noting the dividend track records of the bank, Okezie said shareholders are excited over the additional shares. He however advised against absorption of oversubscription, pointing out that excess monies should be returned.

“I will pick my rights; it’s good for the bank and the shareholders. Additional capital would put the bank in

better position to expand its operations and increase lending to the real sector. This is good for all stakeholders,” Okezie said.

Chairman, Shareholders United Front (SUF), Mr Gbenga Idowu, said the fundamentals of the bank were attractive and there is no reason to doubt the continued growth of the bank.

“We will support the management and the board by not only picking our rights but we will demand for extra shares,” Idowu said.

Another shareholders’ leader, Godwin Anonoh, said his personal experience as a customer and shareholder of the bank gives him confidence to always support the bank.

He said Sterling Bank’s track records of high dividends and the potential for capital appreciation assure investors of double returns over

FATF: Ikeazor seeks support for Nigeria’s de-listing

B

ANKS’ Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) have critical roles to play in the task of getting the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) to delist Nigeria from its list on non-co-operative countries (NCCTs), Managing Director/CEO, Keystone Bank, Philip Ikeazor, has said.

Speaking during the Committee of Chief Compliance Officers in Nigeria (CCCOBIN) monthly meeting in Lagos, he advised his counterparts in other banks to provide adequate resources and empowerment for their Chief Compliance Officers (CCOs) and other relevant officers to ensure that Nigeria’s Anti-Money Laundering/Combating the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) risks are wellmanaged.

Ikeazor, who was represented by Keystone Bank’s Executive Director,

By Collins Nweze Operations and Technology, Ademola Adewale, called for banks’ management backing for the implementation of AML/CFT measures, especially deficiencies identified by FATF. The FATF had listed non-implementation of procedures to identify and freeze terrorist assets and failure to ensure that customer due diligence requirements apply to all financial transactions as areas Nigeria needs to address in order to ensure her removal from the highrisk and non-cooperative jurisdictions list.

He also said there is need to protect bank officers involved in driving the implementation of the money laundering laws and regulations as well as institution of penalties against non-compliant staff.

• Ikeazor

Besides, Ikeazor said the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Nigeria Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU) and the judiciary have to work together to ensure implementation of

Tenor

Amount N

Rate %

M/Date

3-Year 5-Year 5-Year

35m 35m 35m

11.039 12.23 13.19

19-05-2014 18-05-2016 19-05-2016

WHOLESALE DUTCH AUCTION SYSTEM Amount Amount Offered ($) Demanded ($) 350m 150m 350m 138m 350m 113m

MANAGED FUNDS

NIDF NESF

OBB Rate Call Rate

Price Loss 2754.67 447.80

PRIMARY MARKET AUCTION (T-BILLS) Tenor 91-Day 182-Day 1-Year

Amount 30m 46.7m 50m

Rate % 10.96 9.62 12.34

Date 28-04-2012 “ 14-04-2012

GAINERS AS AT 28-06-13

SYMBOL NAHCO PORTPAINT ABCTRANS IHS JAPAULOIL RTBRISCOE VITAFOAM UACN WEMABANK ASHAKACEM

O/PRICE 6.61 4.07 0.92 1.85 0.50 1.41 4.37 53.00 1.14 22.80

C/PRICE 7.27 4.47 1.01 2.00 0.54 1.52 4.70 57.00 1.22 24.35

EXHANGE RATE 6-03-12 Currency

INTERBANK RATES 7.9-10% 10-11%

CHANGE 0.66 0.40 0.09 0.15 0.04 0.11 0.33 4.00 0.08 1.55

NGN USD NGN GBP NGN EUR NIGERIA INTER BANK (S/N) (S/N) Bureau de Change (S/N) Parallel Market

Year Start Offer

Current Before

C u r r e n t CUV Start After %

147.6000 239.4810 212.4997

149.7100 244.0123 207.9023

150.7100 245.6422 209.2910

-2.11 -2.57 -1.51

149.7450

154.0000

154.3000

-3.04

152.0000

153.0000

155.5000

-2.30

153.0000

154.0000

156.0000

-1.96

DISCOUNT WINDOW Feb. ’11

July ’11

July ’12

MPR

6.50%

6.50%

12%

Standing Lending Rate ,, Deposit Rate ,, Liquidity Ratio Cash Return Rate Inflation Rate

8.50% 4.50% 25.00% 1.00% 12.10%

8.50% 4.50% 25.00% 2.00% 12.10%

9.50% 5.50% 30.00% 2.00% 11.8%

O/PRICE

CAP EVANSMED JOSBREW TOTAL BETAGLAS CCNN ETERNA AIRSERVICE TRANSCORP UBN

59.89 2.97 1.20 160.00 10.00 11.19 3.30 4.68 1.33 12.89

C/PRICE 53.91 2.68 1.10 150.10 10.66 24.50 3.15 4.50 1.28 12.44

CHANGE 5.98 0.29 0.10 9.90 0.50 2.53 0.15 0.18 0.05 0.45

NIBOR Tenor 7 Days 30 Days 60 Days 150 Days

Rate (Previous) 4 Mar, 2012 9.0417 9.6667 11.2917 12.1250

Rate (Currency) 6, Mar, 2012 10.17% 11.46% 11.96% 12.54%

Movement

Amount Sold ($) 150m 138m 113m

Exchange Rate (N) 155.2 155.8 155.7

Date 2-7-12 27-6-12 22-6-12

CAPITAL MARKET INDEX

NSE CAP Index

27-10-11 N6.5236tr 20,607.37

28-10-11 N6.617tr 20,903.16

% Change -1.44% -1.44%

MEMORANDUM QUOTATIONS Name

LOSERS AS AT 28-06-13

SYMBOL

proactive measures required to address deficiencies highlighted by FATF on Nigeria.

The bank’s helmsman also said delivering of timely and fair judgments on money laundering and terrorism financing cases, creation of specialised courts and increased capacity building for judges will also help in building confidence in the system.

While quoting the recent FATF assessment of the country, he said that Nigeria has largely addressed its action plan by enacting legislation to adequately criminalise money laundering and terrorist financing, implementing procedures to identify and freeze terrorist assets, ensuring that customer due diligence requirements apply to all financial instructions and improving the overall supervisory framework for AML/CFT.

DATA BANK

FGN BONDS

Initial Current Quotation Price Market N8250.00 5495.33 N1000.00 N552.20

the years, pointing out that there is possibility the share price would more than double in a short while.

National Coordinator, Pragmatic Shareholders Association, Mrs Bisi Bakare, said Sterling Bank ranked as one of the best stocks in terms of returns on investment, assuring that she would mobilise supports for the bank.

“The time is right and the price is right, shareholders are getting dividends from their investments now, so we have money to invest. We will put this money in Sterling Bank,” Bakare said.

Speaking on the prospects of the bank, National Coordinator, Independent Shareholders Association of Nigeria (ISAN), Sir Sunny Nwosu, commended what he described as impressive performance of the bank overtime.

Offer Price

Bid Price

ARM AGGRESSIVE GROWTH 9.17 9.08 KAKAWA GUARANTEED 1.00 1.00 STANBIC IBTC GUARANTE INVE 139.16 139.16 AFRINVEST W.A. EQUITY FUND 165.11 163.93 LOTUS CAPITAL HALAL 0.80 0.78 BGL SAPPHIRE FUND 1.16 1.16 BGL NUBIAN FUND 1.16 1.15 FBN MONEY MARKET FUND 100.00 100.00 FBN FIXED INCOME FUND 1,000.00 1,000.00 NIGERIA INTERNATIONAL DEB. 1,817.23 1,808.06 PARAMOUNT EQUITY FUND 14.39 13.69 CONTINENTAL UNIT TRUST 1.39 1.33 CENTRE-POINT UNIT TRUST 1.87 1.80 STANBIC IBTC NIG EQUITY 12,214.81 11,854.08 • ARM AGGRESSIVE • KAKAWA GUARANTEED • STANBIC IBTC GUARANTE • AFRINVEST W.A. EQUITY FUNDARM AGGRESSIVE • OPEN BUY BACK

Bank P/Court

Previous 04 July, 2012

Current 07, Aug, 2012

8.5000 8.0833

8.5000 8.0833

Movement

66

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MONEY MARKET REPORT

Liquidity surge pushes inter-bank rate up •Naira’s fall persists

that the private sector now contributes about 60 per cent of the N3.4 trillion pension assets under the management of Pension Fund Administrators (PFAs).

The research firm said data released by the National Pension Commission (PenCom) show that as at end of March 2013 (when pension assets were N3 trillion), the private sector contributed N1.8 trillion to the scheme. Also, the public sector’s contribution from ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs) of the federal and some state governments, was N1.2 trillion. This, it said, was a marked change from its composition in 2004 when the Act kicked off.

FBN Capital said the increase to N3.4 trillion as at the end of May, this year was largely due to the filing in of 12 states into the contributory pension scheme, although only six states had collected and remitted contributions in compliance with the provisions of the Pension Reform Act (PRA) 2004.

•As at June 28, 2013

T

HE inter-bank rate rose slightly to 10.5 per cent last week, largely due to increased liquidity outflows to government securities and forex transactions.

Besides the twice weekly Wholesale Dutch Auction System (WDAS), the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) intervened directly and via Over The Counter (OTC) market to support the ailing naira.

The naira on Thursday, June 27, depreciated 0.1 per cent against the dollar in the Inter-bank where it has lost 3.5 per cent of its value year to date.

On Friday, naira fell to its weakest level in two weeks on the inter-bank market, driven by dollar shortages as banks covered their position, traders said. The naira closed at 162.6 to the dollar, the lowest since June 14 when the local currency closed at 162.7 to the dollar.

Strong dollar demand to meet month-end obligations plus debt selloff triggered partly by uncertainty over timing of Federal Reserve’s “tapering” of quantitative easing continued to adversely affect the value of naira. Also, the yield on the 2022 securities rose by 38 basis points, or 0.38 percentage point, to 13.33 per cent, the highest since October 30.

Also, call/overnight rate rose slightly to 10.45 per cent the sevenday money market rate and other tenured funds slowed. The threemonth Nigeria Interbank Offered Rate (NIBOR) slowed to 11.5 per cent, though less activities are done on the tenor.

The interbank secured lending (Open Buy Back) was steady on 10.25 per cent for commercial banks and discount houses respectively.

Currency Analyst at Ecobank Nigeria, Olakunle Ezun, projected that rate would likely continue to moderate around 10.5 per cent to underscore market liquidity.

External debt Nigeria’s external debt constituents showed that 80 per cent of the its $6.67 billion debt is owed to multilaterals, namely, the World Bank Group, International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), African Development Bank Group (AfDB), Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (ABEDA), International Development Bank (IDB) and Economic Development Fund (EDF).

Report from FSDH Securities Limited showed that the Exim Bank of China, which constitutes 11.3 per cent of the debt stock was the next biggest creditor to the country while 8.51 per cent of the debt is owed to other unnamed creditors.

The debt statistics which is for the first quarter of the year, represents an increase of 2.20 per cent from $6.54 billion in December 31, 2012 but constitutes about 2.49 per cent of the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

Reserves Foreign exchange reserves fell 0.16 per cent month-on-month to $48.33 billion by June 24, the lowest level in more than three months, data from the CBN showed.

The reserves, however, were up 30.86 per cent year-on-year, compared with $36.93 billion the same time last year. The CBN had sold $3.02 billion at its twice-weekly foreign exchange auction between May 22 and June 24, in its bid to support the naira currency, foreign currency traders said.

Eurobond A finanacial analyst has forecast a successful outing for Nigeria’s $1 bil-

•Maturing Bills

Bank to bank report •Source: FMDA

By Collins Nweze

lion Eurobond offer expected to be issued by the Federal Government within the year.

Speaking at a Finance Correspondents Association of Nigeria (FICAN) monthly forum in Lagos, General Manager, Treasury Services, Consolidated Discount House Limited (CDL), Bolanle Okunubi, said there is high possibility that the Eurobond offer, meant to fund power projects, will be successful like previous offers by the Federal Government.

Nigeria issued a debut $500 million 10-year Eurobond two years ago, which was oversubscribed, with investors spanning 18 countries from Europe, the United States, Asia and Africa.

He said for investors, investing in bonds is less risky and there is high level of confidence on Nigeria’s sovereign bonds.

He said the ongoing one-week road show to Britain, Germany and the United States, which started on June 19 is a welcome development. The meeting is being led by the Finance Minister, Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, and other senior government officials from the Debt Management Office.

Cash-less Implementation of the cash-less policy by banks is expected to reduce their cash management cost, safer and enhances the speed of doing business, Lagos State Governor, Babatunde Fashola has said.

Fashola, who was represented by Lagos State Accountant-General, David Sumoni, spoke at the cash-less policy conference organised by Novo Limited and Reach Legal Consulting in Lagos.

He said transiting to cash-less society means moving to a system that is more efficient and safer. A system in which most transactions are conducted using electronic channels such as online transfers, mobile payment, debit cards, among others.

He explained that Lagos is at the forefront of this transition in Nigeria as the CBN chose the state for the pilot of the policy.

NDIC The Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) is concerned about poor rendering of returns by some of the 880 microfinance banks (MfBs) operating in the country.

Speaking at a workshop organised

by NDIC for MfBs in Lagos, NDIC Managing Director, Umaru Ibrahim said, that since extension of deposit insurance to MfBs in 2008 to date, only N1.1 billion has been collected as premium by regulators from the subsector. He said so far, N2.5 billion has been paid to depositors of the closed MfBs, out of total insured deposits of N4.5 billion. The NDIC boss said, the figure is by far, lower than the insured deposits in the sub-sector. He cited the case in September 2010 when 103 MfBs were closed by the regulatory authorities.

Ibrahim, who was represented by Bashir Dada Umar, NDIC Director of Special Insured Institutions Department, said regulatory authorities will continue to take measures to enhance their effectiveness in the discharge of their mandate to the sub-sector to ensure the realisation of policy objectives.

“We are concerned that many MfBs are not operating as they should, neither are they playing by the rules. As many as 15 per cent of the over 880 MfBs operating in the country fail to render returns to the supervisory authorities, as and at when due, while as many fail to pay their annual premium as required by law,” he said.

Mobile money The cumulative transactions by mobile payments operators in the last one year are worth over N64 billion, more than 60 per cent of which were done in the last three months, Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Deputy Governor, Operations, Tunde Lemo, has said.

Speaking a conference on cash-less policy held in Lagos, with the theme: Transiting to a cash-less society- Charting the way forward, he said the CBN has licensed about 18 mobile payment operators to offer payment services via the mobile phone that over 100 million Nigerians are using. This,

he said, would help promote financial inclusion and by extension, make the nation a cash-less one.

Lemo said the CBN has released the guidelines on agent banking to guide banks and other financial service companies who may wish to offer financial products and services, on how to appoint and manage the agents.

He said central banks all over the world are usually at the centre of the development of the banking and payments system. This, he said, is imperative, given that they perform the role of facilitating the exchange of goods and services among the economic agents.

MfBs The CBN is considering launching a Microfinance Development Fund (MDF) in August, to enhance credit flow into key sectors of the economy.

Speaking at a workshop organised for Microfinance Banks (MfBs) in Lagos, CBN Director, Other Financial Institutions Supervision Department (OFISD), Olufemi Fabamwo, said the MDF is a pool of funds created for MfBs to enhance on-lending to their customers.

He said the fund is not for every MfB, but for those that have met the guideline, which entails having a track-record of good performance that shows that they have low loan default. This, he said, will show that beneficiaries have the capability to lend within the concept and principles of MfB. He said the CBN would provide guideline on how the fund will be accessed by beneficiaries. He added that delay in not releasing the fund was to ensure that appropriate frameworks are in place.

The CBN has consistently reiterated its commitment to deepening the financial system by providing loans, introduction of new products and appropriate control structures.

Pension The private sector is well ahead of the public sector in pension fund contributions, FBN Capital, report has shown. The emailed report indicated

‘Strong dollar demand to meet month-end obligations plus debt sell-off triggered partly by uncertainty over timing of Federal Reserve’s “tapering” of quantitative easing continued to adversely affect the value of naira. Also, the yield on the 2022 securities rose by 38 basis points, or 0.38 percentage point, to 13.33 per cent, the highest since October 30’

Diamond Bank Plc plans to launch a $550 million bond next month and hopes for a 10-year maturity, its Chief Finance Officer Abdulrahman Yinusa told Reuters. He said the lender’s roadshow ended without a deal yet.

The mid-tier lender ended a twoweek investor roadshow to Britain, Switzerland and the United States last week, which was meant to update fund managers on the bank and gauge appetite for the issue, Yinusa said.

“The issue as well as the pricing will happen sometime in July. We have only done the roadshow,” Yinusa told said, adding that the bank wanted to raise a maximum of $550 million. Several emerging market borrowers, including Nigeria itself, have held roadshows in recent weeks, but the United States’ Federal Reserve’s talk of winding down its money-pumping programme has kept new issues to a minimum.

Yinusa said the bank had met Goldman Sachs and Fidelity fund managers, among other investors during the roadshow. The roadshow was arranged by lead managers for the bond, France’s BNP Paribas and Afrexim Bank.

Standard Chartered has announced its digital banking vision, aimed at enhancing the customer banking experience in Nigeria. In a statement, the bank said the move is part of its global focus meant to socialise and extend customers’ digital lifestyle into banking.

The bank also announced that it will be introducing series of digital services and solutions to the Nigerian market that will enable its clients save time to enjoy their passion. The bank said Breeze, its banking software is designed to provide customers with a superior, convenient and personalised banking experience.

“The application will eventually be developed into a “virtual branch”, where customers can place requests as well as apply for products and services. Breeze’s introduction into Nigeria follows successful launches by Standard Chartered in India, Malaysia, Singapore, Hong Kong, Korea, China, Dubai and Pakistan,” it said.

The United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc has re-launched its Ruby current account into the market.

Deputy Group Managing Director UBA Plc, Kennedy Uzoka, at the relaunch in Lagos, said the special account for women is designed for the discerning women of substance and is meant to recognise their economic position in the society while encouraging them to grow economically. ”We are presenting the enhanced ‘Ruby’ to the womenfolk in recognition of their virtues and importance in the society as home makers, professionals and female entrepreneurs,” he said.

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Osun State University, Osogbo P.M.B. 4494, OSOGBO, NIGERIA Website: http://www.uniosun.edu.ng E-mail: registrar@uniosun.edu.ng

ACADEMIC AND NON – ACADEMIC STAFF VACANCIES Applications are invited from suitably qualified candidates for the vacant positions below: 1.

COLLEGE OFAGRICULTURE

(a)

Department of Agronomy Senior Lecturer, Lecturer I and Lecturer II Areas of Specialization: Plant Pathology; Plant Breeding/Genetics; and Agricultural Engineering or Mechanization.

(b)

(c)

(d)

2.

Department of Animal Science Senior Lecturers Areas of Specialization: Animal Breeding/Genetics; and Animal Products/Meat Science.

Department of Agricultural Economics and Extension Professors Areas of Specialization: Agricultural Economics; and Extension and Rural Sociology Department of Fisheries and Wildlife Management Professors and Senior Lecturers Areas of Specialization: Fisheries Nutrition/Management and Aquaculture; and Wildlife Management

Department of Accounting Professor/Senior Lecturer/Lecture I/II

(e)

Department of Banking and Finance Professor/Senior Lecturer/Lecturer I/II

(f)

Department of Political Science and International Relations Professor/Senior Lecturer/Lecturer I/II

(g)

Department of Economics Professor/Senior Lecturer/Lecturer I/II

(h)

Department of Geography Senior Lecturer

(i)

Department of Sociology Professor/Senior Lecturer/Lecturer I/II

5.

COLLEGE OF SCIENCE, ENGINEERINGAND TECHNOLOGY

(a) (i)

Department of Biological Sciences B. Sc. Microbiology Programme Professor/Senior Lecturer Area of Specialization: Food and Industrial Microbiology, Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Environmental/Soil Microbiology, Public Health and Virology.

COLLEGE OF HUMANITIESAND CULTURE

(a) Department of History and International Studies Professor/Associate Professor, Senior Lecturer, Lecturer I/II Area of Interest: Nigerian Economic History, Social and Cultural History, Comparative Economic and Social Systems, Economics of African Development, International Economic Integration and Financial Integration.

(iii) (iv) (v)

Department of Languages and Linguistics Professor/Associate Professor/Senior Lecturer/Lecturer I/II in Linguistics Professor/Associate Professor/Senior Lecturer/Lecturer I/II in Communication Studies Senior Lecturer / Assistant Lecturer in French Professor / Associate Professor/Senior Lecturer/ Lecturer I/II in English Professor/Associate Professor/Senior Lecturer/Lecturer I/II in Literature

3.

COLLEGE OF LAW

(b) (i) (ii)

(d)

Professor/ Senior Lecturer Qualification and Experience: Professor/Senior Lecturer must possess a Doctorate Degree in Law and must have been called to Bar. Twelve (12) years of Teaching and Research Experience in the University System and at least be at the Rank of Associate Professor/ Reader with proven record of scholarly publications while six (6) years of Teaching and Research Experience is needed for the position of a Senior Lecturer who possesses a Ph.D Degree and already attained a Lecturer I status with adequate scholarly publications.

(ii)

B. Sc Plant Science Programme Professor/Senior Lecturer/Lecturer I/II Area of Specialization: Plant Taxonomy and Genetics, Genetics and Molecular Biology, Plant Physiology, Ecology and Bryophytes.

(iii)

B. Sc. Zoology Programme Senior Lecturer Area of Specialization: Parasitology, Entomology and Comparative Animal Physiology.

(b) (i)

Department of Chemical Sciences B. Sc. Biochemistry Programme Professor/Associate Professor/Senior Lecturer/Lecturer I/II Area of Specialization: Toxicology/Nutritional Biochemistry/Biotechnology. For Lecturer I/II in any area of specialization.

(ii)

B. Sc. Chemistry Programme Professor/Senior Lecturer/Lecturer I /II Area of Specialization: For Professor - Inorganic Chemistry; For Senior Lecturer Physical Chemistry/Organic Chemistry; For Lecturer I /II – Inorganic Chemistry/ Industrial/Analytical Chemistry

4.

COLLEGE OF MANAGEMENTAND SOCIAL SCIENCES

(iii)

(a)

Department of Entrepreneurial Studies Professor/Senior Lecturer/Lecturer I/II Area of Specialization/Relevant Fields: Management Sciences, Business Administration, Agricultural Economics, Economics, Industrial Relations, Human Resource Management, Vocational and Technical Education.

B.Sc. Industrial Chemistry Programme Professor/Associate Professor/Senior Lecturer Area of Specialization: For Professor – Industrial Chemistry/Analytical Chemistry; For Associate Professor – Analytical Chemistry; For Senior Lecturer - Physical Chemistry, Organic/Inorganic Chemistry.

(iv)

B.Sc. Geology Professor / Senior Lecturer Area of Specialization:- Any area of Geology

(c)

Department of Civil Engineering Professor /Senior Lecturer /Lecturer I/II Area of Specialization: Any area of Civil Engineering

(d)

Department of Electrical/Electronic Engineering Professor /Senior Lecturer / Lecturer I/II Area of Specialization: Any area of Electrical/Electronic Engineering

(b)

(c)

Department of Business Administration Professor/Senior Lecturer/Lecture I/II Area of Specialization/Relevant Fields: Management, Finance, Marketing, Operations Research/Management, International Business and Human Resource Management.

Department of Human Resource Development Professor/Senior Lecturer/Lecturer I/II Area of Specialization: Human Resource Management, Industrial Relations, Industrial Education, Industrial and Organization Psychology.

THE NATION MONDAY, JULY 1, 2013 (e) (i)

71

Department of Mathematical and Physical Sciences B. Sc. Physics with Electronics Programme

4.

5.

6.

Library Assistant Library Porter Assistant Technical Officer (ICT)

(CONTISS 03) (CONTISS 03) (CONTISS 05

Associate Professor/Senior Lecturer/Lecturer II/Assistant Lecturer Area of Specialization: For Professor – Electronic (Communication) or Atmospheric Physics; For Senior Lecturer – Geophysics or Atmospheric Physics; Lecturer II – Communication Physics/ Radiation and Health Physics; For Assistant Lecturer – Evidence of Registration for Ph.D in Physics. (ii) B. Sc. Mathematics with Statistics Programme Associate Professor / Senior Lecturer/Lecturer II/ Assistant Lecturer Area of Specialization: For Associate Professor – Applied Mathematics with specialization in Field Mechanics; Senior Lecturer – Ph. D in Statistics or Mathematics; Lecturer II – Ph. D in Mathematics; Assistant Lecturer – Prospective Ph. D in Functional Analysis, Algebra. (f)

Department of Information Management Technology

B. Sc Computer Programme Professor/Senior Lecturer Area of Specialization:- Any area of Computer Sciences. (g)

Department of Urban and Regional Planning Professor / Senior Lecturer / Lecturer I/ II

Area of Specialization:- Any area of Urban and Regional Planning QUALIFICATIONSAND EXPERIENCE Please check specific disciplinary requirements where applicable below:Professor: The candidate who must have been an Associate Professor for at least three (3) years must have a Ph.D. degree in the area specified and evidence of highly scholarly productivity. Candidate must have adequate acceptable publications locally and internationally with distinctive academic quality, originality and contribution to knowledge.

The candidate must be willing to initiate and develop courses at both Undergraduate and Postgraduate levels and be able to supervise Postgraduate students in his/her areas of specialization. Minimum of fifteen (15) years Post Qualification teaching Experience in University or related tertiary Institution and adequate years of Administrative Experience.

Registration with Professional body where applicable is compulsory.

Associate Professor: The candidate must have been a Senior Lecturer for at least three (3) years with a Ph.D. degree in the area specified and evidence of highly scholarly productivity with nothing less than ten (10) years of Teaching and Research Experience in a University.

The candidate must be willing to initiate and develop courses at both Undergraduate and Postgraduate levels and be able to supervise Postgraduate students in his / her areas of specialization. Candidate must have adequate acceptable publications locally and internationally with distinctive academic quality, originality and contribution to knowledge.

He/she must have adequate administrative years of experience. Registration with Professional body where applicable is compulsory.

Note: For Law Programme Professor/Senior Lecturer must possess a Doctorate Degree in Law and must have been called to Bar. Twelve (12) years of Teaching and Research Experience in the University System and at least be at the Rank of Associate Professor/Reader with proven record of scholarly publications while six (6) years of Teaching and Research Experience is needed for the position of a Senior Lecturer who possess a Ph.D Degree and already attained a Lecturer I status with adequate scholarly publications.

Senior Lecturer: The candidate must have a Ph.D. degree or its equivalent in the relevant field from a recognized Institution plus six (06) years Post Qualification Teaching and Research Experience in University. Candidate must have adequate acceptable publications with distinctive academic quality, originality and contribution to knowledge. He /she must have the ability to teach courses at both Undergraduate and Postgraduate level with adequate Research experience and ability to supervise Postgraduate students. Registration with Professional body where applicable is compulsory.

Lecturer I: The candidate must have a Ph.D. degree in relevant field with adequate and acceptable publications with distinctive academic quality, originality and contribution to knowledge. Candidate must have a minimum of three (3) years teaching experience with ability to initiate and supervise Research Programmes at the undergraduate level.

Registration with Professional body where applicable is compulsory.

Lecturer II: The candidate must have at least a Ph.D. or Master degree (Evidence of Registration for Ph.D. and progress report in specified area required) with adequate and acceptable publications with distinctive academic quality, originality and contribution to knowledge with two years teaching experience.

6.

UNIVERSITY LIBRARY

1.

2.

3.

Senior Librarian Librarian II Library Officer

(CONUASS 04) (CONUASS 02) (CONTISS 06)

SENIOR LIBRARIAN (CONUASS 04) Candidates for this position must possess a good honours degree with minimum of Second Class (Lower Division) in the Sciences or Humanities from a recognized and accredited University plus Masters (MLS or MLIS) degree in Library and Information Science plus a minimum of six (6) years Post Qualification Experience. Candidates must be Computer Literate and have a good understanding of ICT Application to Library Functions. He/ she must show evidence of research ability through Publications in relevant Peer –Reviewed Journals in Library and Information Science.

LIBRARY II (CONUASS 02) Candidates for this position must possess a good honours degree with minimum of Second Class (Lower Division) in the Sciences or Humanities plus MLS or MLIS or equivalent obtained from an accredited University or a Master’s degree plus a Postgraduate Diploma in Library and Information Science.

LIBRARY OFFICER (CONTISS 06) Candidates must possess Diploma in Library Studies obtained from a recognized University.

Candidates must also possess Credit in five (5) Subjects including English Language at the GCE/SSCE or equivalent. Computer literacy and knowledge / application of ICT to the functions of the Library are essential requirements.

LIBRARY ASSISTANT (CONTISS 03) Candidates for this position must possess SSCE/GCE O’ Level with Credit in five (05) subjects including English Language. Computer literacy and ability to communicate effectively would be an added advantage.

LIBRARY PORTER (CONTISS 03) Candidates must possess at least WAEC/SSCE/GCE O’ Level or its equivalent with credit in four (4) subjects including English Language and must be Computer Literate. Experience as a Retired Police, Military or other Para-Military Personnel would be an advantage.

ASSISTANT TECHNICAL OFFICER (ICT) (CONTISS 05) Candidates must possess National Diploma (ND) certificate in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical and Electronics Engineering with Practical Experience in Technical Support Service. Candidates must also possess Credit in five (5) Subjects including English Language. Possession of any Information Technology (IT) Certification and knowledge of LINUX will be an added advantage. Candidates are expected to have a good working experience in an Information Technology related job with basic responsibility of repairing and maintenance of Computer Hardware and Software, Local Area Network, Use and Installation of Microsoft Operating System and other Window Applications.

7.

MEDICALAND HEALTH SERVICES UNIT

Medical Officer II (CONTISS 10) (i) Candidates must possess MBBS or its equivalent from a recognized University, plus full Registration by the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria and completion of NYSC. (ii) Nursing Officer II/ Staff Nurse and Midwifery II (CONTISS 07) Candidates must possess RN/RM or equivalent qualification with registration with Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria. (iii) Nursing Officer I (CONTISS 08) Qualification Required: As for Nursing Officer II plus three (3) years Cognate Experience or possession of Bachelor of Nursing Science (BNSC) or Public Health Nursing Degree. (iv) Medical Record Officer (CONTISS 08) Qualification Required: Degree in Health Record Administration and Biostatistics or Degree in Health Information Management plus registration with Health Record Board. Evidence of completion of NYSC. Medical Record Technician (CONTISS 07) (v) Qualification Required: Possession of National Certificate in Health Record Technician or Associate Membership of the Association of Medical Record Technician plus Registration/License by Health Record Officers Board. (vi) Pharmacist (CONTISS 09) Qualification Required: Possession of the Bachelor Degree in Pharmacy from a recognized University; full registration with Pharmacy Council of Nigeria and completion of NYSC. (vii) Senior Pharmacist (CONTISS 10) Qualification Required:- As for Pharmacist plus three (3) years Cognate Experience. (viii) Health Attendant (CONTISS 02) Qualification Required:(a) Possession of ‘O’ Level SS Certificate with four (4) Credits including English Language. (b) Certificate in Health Attendant from a recognized Health Institution.

(8)

OFFICE OF THE VICE–CHANCELLORAND REGISTRY DEPARTMENT

a)

Senior Assistant Registrar

-

CONTISS 11

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72 b) c) d) e) f) g) h) i) j) k) l)

Assistant Registrar Administrative Officer I Administrative Officer II Academic Planning Officer II Confidential Secretary I Confidential Secretary II Confidential Secretary III Clerical Officer I Clerical Officer II Office Assistant Assistant Technical Officer (SIWES)

-

CONTISS 09 CONTISS 08 CONTISS 07 CONTISS 07 CONTISS 07 CONTISS 07 CONTISS 05 CONTISS 04 CONTISS 03 CONTISS 01 CONTISS 05

(9)

INTERNALAUDIT UNIT Auditor II

-

CONTISS 07

(10) SPORTS AFFAIRS Assistant Coach/Coach Grade II

-

CONTISS 06

(11) SECURITY UNIT (a) Chief Security Officer (b) Security Officer II (c) Patrolmen (For all the Campuses)

-

CONTISS 13 CONTISS 07 CONTISS 02

(12) (a) (b) (c) (d) (e) (f) (g) (h) (i) (j)

-

CONTISS 13 CONTISS 11 CONTISS 09 CONTISS 08 CONTISS 07 CONTISS 09 CONTISS 07 CONTISS 07 CONTISS 08 CONTISS 07

Confidential Secretary II - CONTISS 06 (a) SSCE with Credit Pass in English Language plus RSA/Pitman/Technical Certificate with 100/50 wpm in Shorthand and Typewriting with at least three (3) years Secretarial Experience.

-

CONTISS 15

Clerical Officer II – CONTISS 03 Possession of SSCE or GCE ‘O’ Level with four (4) Credits obtained at one sitting or five (5) Credits at two sittings including English and Mathematics.

BURSARY DEPARTMENT Chief Accountant Principal Accountant Senior Accountant Accountant I Accountant II Senior Store Officer Store Officer II Purchasing Officer II Confidential Secretary I Confidential Secretary II

(13) WORKSAND MAINTENANCE DEPARTMENT (a) Director Works and Maintenance (b) (i) (ii) (iii) (iv) (v) (vi)

Building Section Builder II (Civil Engineer) Senior Engineer (Structure) Architect II Higher Technical Officer (Building) Assistant Technical Officer Craftsmen (Civil, Electrical & Mechanical)

-

CONTISS 07 CONTISS 09 CONTISS 07 CONTISS 07 CONTISS 05 CONTISS 04

(c) (i) (ii) (iii)

Engineering Section Senior Engineer (Civil, Electrical) Engineer II (Mechanical) Higher Technical Officer

-

CONTISS 09 CONTISS 07 CONTISS 07

(d) (i)

Parks and Gardening Section Horticulturist II

-

CONTISS 07

(ii)

Assistant Technical Officer

-

CONTISS 05

(e) (i) (ii) (iii) (iv) (v) (vi) (vii) (viii) (ix)

Physical Planning Section Architect II Quantity Surveyor I Engineer I (Structure) Builder I (Civil Engineer) Land Surveyor II Planning Officer II Engineer II (Mechanical) Engineer II (Electrical) Draughtsman

-

CONTISS 07 CONTISS 08 CONTISS 08 CONTISS 08 CONTISS 07 CONITSS 08 CONTISS 07 CONTISS 07 CONTISS 04

(14) (a) (b) (c) (d)

INFORMATION MANAGEMENTAND TECHNOLOGY CENTRE (IMTC) Assistant Technical Officer (For all the Campuses)CONTISS 05 Programmer II CONTISS 07 Network Administrator II CONTISS 07 System Analyst II CONTISS 07

Senior Assistant Registrar CONTISS 11: Possession of a First Degree in any of the disciplines with a minimum of Second Class Honours (Lower Division) plus Masters degree in relevant disciplines with at least nine (9) years Post Qualification Cognate Experience.

Assistant Registrar CONTISS 09: (i) Possession of a First Degree with a minimum of Second Class Honours (Lower Division) plus at least six (6) years Post Qualification Experience in a comparable Institution. (ii)

Possession of Masters Degree in any of the disciplines plus at least four (4) years Post Qualification Cognate Experience in a comparable University.

Administrative Officer I - CONTISS 08: (i) Possession of a First Degree with a minimum of Second Class Honours (Lower Division) plus at least three (3) years Post Qualification Experience in a comparable Institution. (ii) Possession of a Masters Degree plus at least two (2) years Post Qualification Experience in a comparable Institution.

Administrative Officer II - CONTISS 07: Possession of a good First Degree of at least Second Class Honours (Lower Division) from a recognized University.

Academic Planning Officer II - CONTISS 07: Possession of a good First Degree in Social Sciences, Mathematics, Statistics, Computer Science from a recognized University with a minimum of Second Class Honours (Lower Division) or First Degree in any discipline with a minimum of Second Class Honours (Lower Division) plus a Postgraduate Diploma in Economics, Mathematics, Statistics or Computer Science.

Confidential Secretary I - CONTISS 07 (i) Higher National Diploma (HND) / Bachelor’s Degree in Secretarial Administration or Office Management Technology with one year Cognate Experience and 120/50 wpm in Shorthand /Typewriting. (ii)

(b)

Senior Secondary Certificate Examinations (SSCE) with Credit Pass in English Language plus RSA, Pitman or approved Technical School Certificate with 120/50 wpm in Shorthand plus at least three (3) years of Post Qualification Experience.

NCE in Office Management or Business Education or National Diploma in Secretarial Administration with minimum of two years Cognate Experience an 100/50 wpm in Shorthand and Typewriting

Confidential Secretary III - CONTISS 05 Possession of SSCE with Credit Pass in English Language and National Diploma (ND) in Secretarial Administration with 100 /50 wpm Shorthand and Typewriting.

Clerical Officer I – CONTISS 04 As for Clerical Officer II above with at least three (3) years Cognate Experience.

Office Assistant Possession of SSCE or GCE O/Level with three (3) Credits at one Sitting or five (5) Credits at two Sittings including English Language.

Chief Accountant – CONTISS 13 Possession of a Honours Degree in Accountancy, Economics, Business Administration, Banking, Finance or other allied degrees from a recognized institutions with a minimum of Second Class Lower Division with twelve (12) years Cognate Experience. Candidate must be qualified and certified by Professional bodies such as ICAN, ACCA, ACA etc.

Principal Accountant - CONTISS 11 Possession of a Honours Degree in Accountancy, Economics, Business Administration, Banking, Finance or other allied degrees from a recognized institutions with a minimum of Second Class Lower Division with nine (9) years Cognate Experience. Candidate must be qualified and certified by Professional bodies such as ICAN, ACCA, ACA etc.

Senior Accountant – CONTISS 09 Possession of a Honours Degree in Accountancy, Economics, Business Administration, Banking, Finance or allied degrees from a recognized institutions with a minimum of Second Class Lower division with six (6) years Cognate Experience. Candidate must be qualified and certified by Professional bodies such as ICAN, ACCA, ACA etc.

Accountant I - CONTISS 08 Possession of Honours Degree in Accountancy, Economics, Business Administration, Banking, Finance or other allied degree from recognized Institutions with a minimum of Second Class (Lower Division) with three (3) years Cognate Experience. Possession of recognized Professional qualification from Accounting body such as ICAN, ACA, ACCA may be an added advantage.

Accountant II - CONTISS 07 Possession of Honours Degree in Accountancy, Economics, Business Administration, Banking Finance or other allied degree from a recognized Institution with a minimum of Second Class (Lower Division).

Senior Store Officer – CONTISS 09 Possession of Honours Degree in Accountancy, Marketing, Economics or other related degrees from recognized institutions with a minimum of Second Class (Lower Division) with at least six (6) years cognate experience. Candidates must be qualified and certified by a relevant Professional body.

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73

Store Officer II – CONTISS 07 Possession of Honours Degree in Accountancy, Marketing, Economics or other related degrees from recognized institutions with a minimum of Second Class (Lower Division)

in addition to the above SSCE/GCE ‘O’Level with Credit Pass in five (5) subjects including English and Mathematics. Computer Literacy and knowledge of Application of ICT would be an added advantage.

Purchasing Officer II – CONTISS 07 Possession of Honours Degree in Marketing, Purchasing and Supply, Business Administration or other related disciplines from recognized institution with a minimum of Second Class (Lower Division). Higher National Diploma (HND) in Purchasing and Supply, Marketing with a minimum of Lower Credit may also apply for Higher Executive Officer Position.

Horticulturist II - CONTISS 07 Possession of Higher National Diploma in Horticulture or other allied Diploma from a recognized institution with a minimum of Lower Credit. Computer Literacy and knowledge of Application of ICT would be added advantage.

Internal Auditor II – CONTISS 07 Possession of a good First Degree in Accountancy, Banking, Finance, Business Administration, Economics not lower than Second Class (Lower Division) from a recognized University.

Assistant Coach/Coach Grade II – CONTISS 06 Candidates must possess WASC, GCE/ NECO in five (5) Subjects Plus:(i) Diploma (not below Credit) in Physical and Health Education from a recognized Institution. (ii) Medals won (Gold, Silver) in FISU, WAUG, NUGA Games or in NUGA Games or in National Sports Festival in a particular INDIVIDUAL SPORT. (iii) Skills in Coaching two (2) additional sports are required. (iv) A Grade II Coaching Certificate from the National Institute for Sports (NIS) will be an added advantage.

Director of Works and Maintenance – CONTISS 15 Direct appointment for a candidate possessing a Masters Degree in the relevant field plus twelve (12) years experience and registered with COREN or First Degree in relevant field of Engineering plus fifteen (15) years experience and registered with COREN. Senior Engineer (Structure) - CONTISS 09 (a) Possession of First Degree in Civil Engineering plus six (6) years Post Qualification Experience. (b) Possession of a Masters Degree in Civil Engineering plus three (3) years Post Qualification Experience.

Engineer I (Structure) – CONITSS 08 (a) Possession of First Degree in Civil Engineering plus three (3) years Post Qualification Experience. (b) Possession of Masters Degree in Civil Engineering plus one (1) year Experience.

Engineer II – CONITSS 07 Possession of First Degree in a related field of Engineering with a minimum of Second Class Lower Division.

Building Officer II – CONTISS 07 Possession of:(i) Degree in Building /Building Technology from a recognized University with a minimum of Second Class (Lower Division). (ii)

A Pass in the final Part II Examination of Nigeria Institute of Builders or Chartered Institute of Buildings of England.

(iii)

Any equivalent Professional Qualification registrable with CORBON.

Draughtsman - CONTISS 04 Candidates should possess Trade Certificate obtained from a Government Trade Centre or any other approved Institution. Candidates should also possess in addition to the above SSCE/GCE ‘O’Level with Credit in five (5) Subjects including English Language and Mathematics. Computer Literacy and ability to communicate effectively would be added advantage.

Chief Security Officer – CONTISS 13 Possession of good first degree in relevant discipline obtained from a recognized institution with a minimum of Second Class (Lower Division) or Higher National Diploma (HND) in relevant discipline with fifteen (15) years cognate experience. Candidates must be computer literate.

Security Officer II - CONTISS 07 Possession of a honours degree in relevant discipline obtained from a recognized institution with a minimum of Second Class (Lower Division) or Higher National Diploma (HND) in relevant discipline. Experience in the Armed Forces will be an added advantage. Candidates must be computer literate.

Patrolmen – CONTISS 2 Candidates must possess SSCE/GCE or equivalent with at least Credit in three (3) Subjects at one sitting or five (5) subjects at two (2) sittings with one of them in English Language.

METHOD OFAPPLICATION Applicants are required to submit twenty-five (25) copies of their application and current Curriculum Vitae which should contain among others: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

11.

12.

13.

14.

15.

16.

17.

18.

Architect II – CONTISS 07 Possession of:(i) B.Sc. Degree in Architecture with grade not less than Second Class (Lower Division) obtained from a University recognized by Architect Registration Council of Nigeria (ARCON); (ii) Qualifications registrable with the Architect Registration Council of Nigeria (ARCON); (iii) Final I Examination of NIA or Final I Examination of Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA).

Quantity Surveyor I - CONTISS 08 Possession of:(i) B.Sc. Degree in Quantity Surveying with grade not less than Second Class (Lower Division) obtained from an Institution recognized by Nigerian Institute of Quality Surveyors with three (3) years Cognate Experience. (ii) Possession of qualifications registrable with Nigerian Institute of Quantity Surveyors with three (3) years Cognate Experience. (iii) Masters Degree of Quantity Surveying with minimum of one year experience.

Applicants should request their nominated referees to forward their reports under separate and confidential cover direct to: The Registrar, Osun State University, P.M.B. 4494, Osogbo, Osun State, Nigeria.

All applicants, particularly for Non-Academic positions should note that they may be required to serve in any of the six campuses of the University.

All applications should be submitted to the Registrar at the above address. Applicants should indicate at the top left hand corner of their envelopes the position they are applying for. Only shortlisted candidates would be contacted.

Closing Date: All applications and references should reach the Registrar not later than 21 days after the date of this publication. It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure that their references are submitted by that date. *

Land Surveyor II – CONTISS 07 B. Sc. Degree in Land Surveying from an institution recognized by Nigerian Institute of Land Surveyors with grade not less Second Class (Lower Division). Possession of qualifications registrable with Nigerian Institute of Land Surveyors.

Assistant Technical Officer – CONTISS 05 Candidates should possess National Diploma in Electrical, Building, Architecture, Mechanical, Quality Surveying, Civil Engineering, Estate Management, Land Survey from recognized institutions with a minimum of Lower Credit. Candidates should also possess

Full Name (Surname First in Capital Letters) Post applied for Place and Date of Birth Marital Status Name, Address and Phone Number of Next of Kin Number of Children and their Ages Nationality and State of Origin (If a Nigerian) Local Government of Origin (If from Osun State) Contact Details (including Mobile Telephone Numbers and Email) Permanent Home Address Institutions Attended with Dates Academic and Professional Qualifications with dates Work Experience with Dates including full details of former and present posts Present Employment Status and Salary List of Publications (If any) Extra-Curricular Activities Any other relevant information that would facilitate a positive review of your application Names and Addresses of three (3) relevant referees.

Please note that unsolicited applications for positions not advertised would not be acknowledged.

Dr. FANIRAN, J. O. JP Registrar

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POLITICS

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MONDAY, JULY 1, 2013

THE NATION

E-mail:- politics@thenationonlineng.net

Assistant Editor LEKE SALAUDEEN reports that President Jonathan’s approach to some national issues is fuelling ethnic disunity, religious and regional intolerance in the build-up to the 2015 elections.

members - Major General Lawrence Onoja (rtd) and Senator Wash Pam, who were among the leaders of minority ethnic extraction at the instance of the Ijaw leader Chief Edwin Clark, who visited to President Jonathan and urged him to stand for re-election in 2015 has an utterior motive.

Recently, both the leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Yoruba Unity Forum in the Southwest stormed Aso Villa to complain to the President that the zone is being shortchanged in terms of political patronage. The Igbo Youth Movement made similar complain. The Kalabari in Rivers State, too, had accused the President of ceding the oil wells in their land to Bayelsa, his home state.

David-West had harsh words for Ijaw leaders for portraying Jonathan as primarily an Ijaw President. He recalled that the Save Nigeria Group (SNG), founded and headed by a Yoruba, Pastor Tunde Bakare and his compatriots, forced the National Assembly, when it was reluctant to do the right thing as stipulated by the constitution, to take action when the late President Umaru yar’Adua was terminally ill.

“The person that finally moved the motion in the National Assembly to make Jonathan acting President was an Hausa man. There was no Ijaw input. Everything that made Jonathan what he is today as President, 24% of it came from his ethnic group. The other inputs were from other ethnic groups. When the likes of Edwin Clark and Asari Dokubo talk, they are creating more problems for Jonathan. It behoves him as the President and an Ijaw man to ask members of his ethnic group to, please, not make things difficult for him. They should help him to solve the problems he is facing and not add more to them.

“A President who is elected by only a section of the country cannot reasonably be expected to bring Nigerians together and help them live up to their potential. That is to say a President cannot preside over a divided people and expects to succeed.

Jonathan Presidency promoting ethnicity, regionalism

“T

ODAY, our unity is firm and our purpose is strong, our determination unshakable.

Together, we will unite our nation and improve the living standards of all our peoples whether in the north or in the south; in the east or in the west. Our decade of development has begun.

The march is on. The day of transformation begins today. We will not allow anyone exploit differences in creed or tongue, to set us one against another.”

That was President Goodluck Jonathan’s mission statement at his inauguration on May 29, 2011, at the Eagle Square, Abuja. The declaration was intended to reciprocate the massive support given him by the electorate at the poll. The vote that brought him to power cut across party lines. He won in opposition states not because of his popularity or the appeal of his party’s manifesto, but probably to compensate his geo-political zone that had never produced a Head of State or President.

Two years down the road, the question is: Has President Jonathan kept faith with his pledge to unite the country, improve standard of living and promote even development across all regions?

Critics of the Jonathan Administration have accused it of giving covert and in some cases, overt support to aides of the President and others who are sympathetic to his administration as they play both ethnic and religious cards to sustain it in office, especially, beyond 2015.

Critics have maintained that in a country where these two tendencies are treated with so much emotional attachment, the outcome could be inimical to national cohesion. Besides, they also point to some political developments, allegedly ochestrated by the Presidency, which has put a lot of pressure and heat on the polity.

Dividing the NGF Analysts point to the recent Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF) election, which suddenly turned controversial, in spite of the emergence of a clear cut winner. They posit that the Presidency played a diabolical role in the crisis.

Curiously, President Jonathan has sort of confirmed the point through his recognition of the faction, generally believed to have lost that electuion. Today, the elitist political forum is almost irreconcilably divided.

Besides, there was also the sudden emergence of the Peoples Democractic party (PDP) Governors Forum (PDPGF). Ananlysts believ that it is unhealthy and that it has the capacity to not only undermine the national body but also force other parties into forming their own governors’ forum.

It is an open secret today that, the President’s position on who becomes the chairman of the NGF has put a lot of heat on the polity. Initially, the President made us to believe that he was not interested in who wins the NGF chairmanship election. But after the election, which Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi won with 19 votes as against 16 by his opponent,

Governor Jonah Jang of Plateau State, it became apparent that he was very much interested in it. President Jonathan has, for the second time. given official recognition to the group that lost out when he held a meeting with them despite the warning by Amaechi that Jang should stop impersonating him. Thus, the President has “successfully” broken up the NGF for personal political survival.

The division in the NGF has been extended to the Northern Nigeria Governors Forum (NNGF). The split has pitched the governors of Northwest states (Hausa/Fulani) against the minority states. The Presidency is suspected to have a hand in the crisis because the governors of the minority states are the arrow heads of the weak Amaechi-must-go-campaign.

• Dr Jonathan

Abuse of privilege Critical stakeholders are unhappy that under President Jonathan’s watch, ethnicity has been elevated to an art.

The popular opinion is that the President has subtly applied the divisive policy in his dealings with Nigerians.

The President, Civil Rights Commission, Mallam Shehu Sani, said President Jonathan has wasted the immense goodwill he enjoyed in the run- up to the 2011 election.

Speaking to The Nation in an interview, Sani described President Jonathan as the most divisive leader ever in the history of this country.

“His presidency has polarised Nigeria more than any other president in this country. His supporters and foot soldiers have been engaged in fanning the embers of discord and disunity. His supporters have heightened the tension in the polity. Jonathan’s divisive approach to governance has disappointed his friends and emboldened his adversaries.

“Jonathan’s presidency has destroyed the historic political solidarity and cordiality between the North and the Southsouth. Under Jonathan, the unity of Nigeria and its future has come into question as the nation is subjected to voices of disintegration and disunity”, he said.

The Coordinator of Democrats for Electoral Reforms (CODER), Ayo Opadokun, said Jonathan was not the first leader to create division among people to achieve political ambition.

He said it is a reflection of what is wrong in the society. Those accusing Jonathan of creating division among people , he said, would do similar thing when they are in power.

Opadokun said Nigerian politicians would exploit the most suitable strategy to win comfort in their brinkmanship. “That Jonathan is using divisive method to neutralise the influence of his opponents is not out of place. The 2015 election is fast approach-

• David-West

• Sani

ing; he’s in contention. He has government machinery and resources to divide them and win the election. When it comes to power, our politicians would go to any length to achieve their selfish interest”, he said.

Social critic and political activist Prof.

Tam David-West observed that President Jonathan has frittered away the goodwill that won him the presidential election in 2011. He said Jonathan is what he’s today because of northerners’ support. “Nigerians from all parts of the country voted for him to be president, without prejudice to my view that his election is stained.

“Can the Ijaw or Niger Delta alone guarantee the constitutional provision that he must have won 25 per cent of the popular votes cast in two thirds of 36 states; that is 24 states? The answer is ‘no’. The total votes he had from his region was about 24 per cent. Now you turn round to say the Hausa/Fulani must not rule us again. People saying these are not the ones who put him there.

They are abusing the people who put him there.

“If Jonathan does not call them to order, his administration may be truncated. The abuses may have a backlash.

He should stop the Ijaws surrounding him from making reckless statements and distance himself from the so called Ijaw leaders who are merely seeking attention and relevance”, he said.

• Opadokun

In the words of Sani, “Ijaw leaders, who were never heard during the military dictatorship, have now found a voice to churn out provocative and inciting utterances that clearly undermines the remnants of support Jonathan enjoys among Nigerians.

“His administration is sustained by a barrage of propaganda and misinformation. The so called transformation agenda has turned into a political charade and facade for unbridled corruption and pervasive insecurity.

“Worse still, Jonathan has not delivered on his promises and has only delivered Nigeria to poverty and crisis.

He has abandoned governance for trivial issues in his desperation for reelection in 2015.

“Just as he polarised the nation so also he split the PDP on whose platform he came to power. However, the disunity and confusion within the ruling party is a blessing for Nigeria. It is a sign of good things to come. A united PDP has been responsible for the destruction of Nigeria. The disunity in PDP will unite Nigeria”, he said.

Playing up ethnicity The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has accused Jonathan’s kinsmen of promoting religious and ethnic division in the build-up to 2015. ACF noted that the inclusion of two of its

‘With the recent utterances by the different stakeholders across the country, it is obvious that the delicate fibre that ties Nigerians together in the face of a multiplicity of ethnicity, beliefs or faiths, political persuasions and economic inclinations is being badly assaulted. This has far reaching implications for the country as it threatens directly its efforts at forging unity and oneness’

US concern over polarisation In what is clearly an external concern over the growing ethnic division in the country, an American diplomat challenged Nigerian leaders to depoly the diversity of the country to its advantage. Speaking at a seminar, United States Ambassador to Nigeria Terence McCulley noted that this is a country of diversity of thought, diversity of culture and diversity of beliefs.

McCulley said:”Too often, when we talk about Nigeria and with Nigerians, we hear about the differences: the Muslim North and the Christian South, the Hausa, the Igbo and the Yoruba. Nigerians deserve better; Nigerians can do better. While you should be proud of your religion, your culture, your background, your beliefs, you can do so in the light of the fact that you are all Nigerians, drawing inspiration from the uplifting words of your national anthem, he said.

“I believe Nigerians must work together to build their nation irrespective of their religious beliefs. If one puts continuous emphasis on differences, rather than working toward overall betterment while co-existing, one risks chipping away at the very fabric of the nation”, he said.

With the recent utterances by various stakeholders across the country, it is obvious that the delicate fibre that ties Nigerians together in the face of a multiplicity of ethnicity, beliefs or faiths, political persuasions and economic inclinations is being badly assaulted. This has far reaching implications for the country as it threatens directly its efforts at forging unity and oneness. Will the President intervene to reverse the trend before 2015?

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USEFUL PHONE NUMBERS ON ANY EMERGENCY Council endorsed 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 number – 08091626747. Similarly, the State Police Command could be contacted on – 08032419754 and 08123821575. In addition, the State Fire Service can also be contacted on – 07051246833 and 08191778888.

104TH KANO STATE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL MEETING

The Kano State Government is popularly and squarely back at work and re-energized for the second tenure of Governor Engr.

Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, FNSE, after being away on retreat for three (3) days (20th – 23 rd June, 2013) to Abuja, which was purposefully convened to appraise the performance of the present administration.

Essentially, the main Agenda of activities at the retreat centred on issues involved with identifying specific areas of high and low performance in the execution of policy programs/projects aimed at transforming Kano State as promised by Governor Engr. Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, FNSE at his campaigns and inauguration. At the retreat, participants carefully studied the performance of the administration and came out to the conclusion that the administration has performed extremely well since its inception in the last two years. The communiqué agreed that the administration is very well focused and should continue with the good works it has embarked upon for the benefit of the citizens of Kano State, in those vital areas such as Education, Health, Water Supply, Agriculture, Environment, Infrastructural Development/Maintenance, Commerce/Empowerment, etc.

As such, today Wednesday 26 th June, 2013 (17 th Sha’aban, 1434AH) marks the first Kano State Executive Council meeting after the first of two retreats earmarked for the year 2013 while standing concurrently for the date the one hundred and forth (104th) meeting in the series held since the commencement of the second incumbency of the tenure of this administrative.

Typically, an appreciable number of twenty-five (25) memoranda were submitted for deliberation by Council from nine (9) MDAs. Twenty-one (21) of them were approved for execution with an expenditure of Fifteen Billion, Fifty Six Million, One Hundred and Ninety Seven Thousand, Eight hundred and Seventy Five Naira, Thirty Kobo (N15,056,197,875.30) covering seventeen (17) projects. Thus: 1.

OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY TO THE STATE GOVERNMENT This Office submitted six (6) memoranda on behalf of some MDAs for deliberation by Council after which three (3) were approved for execution as follows: a) Presentation of Request for Funds In Respect of Renovation of Kano State Pension Fund Trustees House, Abuja:Kano State Pension Fund Trustees (KSPFT) is one of the most successful public pension management organizations that were formed since the introduction of Pension Contribution regime in Nigeria. While other Pension offices in some States still practice the moribund system of pension administration, KSPTF is at par with private pension administrators in the implementation of the new system. This explains the basis for this memorandum.

Council recalled the purchase of Tofa House, Abuja (renamed Kano State Pension Fund Trustees House, Abuja) by the Kano State Pension Fund Trustees (KSPFT) a few years ago in order to invest and recoup profits for the sustenance of the program and continue payments of pension to contributors. In fact, this house since acquired has never been renovated leading to most of its occupants/renters vacating thereby affecting KSPTF revenue generation efforts. The amount required for the renovation of the complex runs into millions leading to the idea to involve private investors to finance the project and recoup their investment through rental fees. This explains the basis for this memorandum.

The Office of the Executive Secretary, Kano State Pension Funds Trustees (KSPST) reminded Council, through the contents of this memorandum that the organization was recently advised to adopt Public Private Partnership (PPP)/BOT concept in respect of the renovation of Kano State Pension Fund House, Abuja.

Further, Council was informed that the KSPFT received an offer from a Company by name Sinoki based in China (through their Agent in Nigeria called YOEPEC) in line with the directives set by the Government.

Series of discussions ensued with the prospective lessee, which finally yielded the followings: i.

That the lease period for the property is ten (10) years. ii.

That the rent payable shall be N20,000.00 per square metre per annum for the first five (5) years and N22,000.00 for the subsequent five (5) years. iii. That cost for renovating the property was quantified at the sum of N410,347,450.00. iv. That the repayment schedule of the cost of remodeling is 70% to be charged against the first rent installment payable while the remaining 30% of the cost of renovation shall be charged against the second rent installment.

Essentially, two (2) main observations were presented for consideration by Council. Thus: • The initial rent payable to KSPFT at the commencement of the agreement is N233,756,785.00.

• The final rent installment payable to KSPFT at the commencement of the final phase (i.e. five (5) years after commencement of the agreement) is N449,995,762.00.

The candid opinion of the KSPFT is that the merit of this arrangement is that there shall be no financial commitment from the State Government or the Trustees. Indeed, the KSPFT shall be entitled to substantial revenue, and shall at the expiration of the lease period be in possession of a fully renovated property/ facility that can be rented out at appropriate/competitive terms.

As such, the KSPFT sought approval from Council to enter into Public Private Partnership (PPP) with Sinoki in respect of renovating Kano State Pension Fund Trustees House, Abuja at the terms presented for consideration by Council. Approval was granted as requested by Council in view of the viability and prospects of the presented arrangements. b) Presentation of the Review of the Case of Six (6) Kano State Indigenous Postgraduate Students Sponsored for

Studies at Al–Madinah International University, Malaysia:Council recalled this administration’s policy of sponsoring 501 State indigenous citizens to pursue higher degrees overseas. The contents of this memorandum notified Council of the agitations regarding the case of six (6) students undergoing Postgraduate studies in Business, Accounting and Economics at Al–Madinah International University, Malaysia who complained to the State Government about non–accreditation of their offered programs by the Malaysian Ministry of Education.

The Kano State Scholarship Board submitted its position for consideration by Council on the matter, which indicated that a Consultant involved in obtaining admissions for the students was part of the Investigating Committee on the agitations whose findings were presented as follows: i.

That the Institution, Al-Madinah International University, Malaysia is ranked 3rd Position among Private Universities and 18th among the 76 Higher Institutions in Malaysia.

ii.

That the Institution is ranked 2,116 among 11,997 Universities in the World.

iii.

That the Provisional accreditation was extended for courses offered by the Institution while full accreditation would follow before the students’ final graduation.

Council acknowledged the presentation in appreciation and accepted the need for the transfer of the students to public universities of their choice to continue with their studies. c)

Request for Funds to Enable Payment of Quarterly Allowances In Respect of 125 Members of the Shura Council:The Secretary to the State Government presented a request on behalf of the Shura Council regarding the release of accrued allowances for its 125 Members and operational funds for the period of four (4) months (February – May, 2013). Details were presented for consideration by Council. Statutory Provisions prompted Council to approve the release of the aggregate recommended sum of N16,838,900.00 to the Office of the Secretary to the State Government for disbursement to the 125 Members of the Shura Council as their sitting allowances for the period of four (4) months (February – May, 2013) and provision of operational funds.

MINISTRY OF EDUCATION 2.

The Ministry of Education submitted seven (7) memoranda for deliberation by Council. Six (6) of them were approved for execution as follows: a) Request for Approval to Utilize and Release of Year 2012 Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) Intervention Fund for the Purchase of Special Education Material/ Equipment:The Honorable Commissioner, Ministry of Education substantiated to Council, through the contents of this memorandum that, UBEC has already approved the Action Plan presented by the State Education Basic Education Board SUBEB and has released the sum of N23,882,227.00 as the year 2012 Special Education Intervention Fund to the State. Details on the issue were presented to Council for consideration.

Council noted, considered and granted permission for the utilization of the released N23,882,227.00 from UBEC for the purchase of Special Education materials/equipment and provision of infrastructure to Special Education Schools at Tudun Maliki and Kuka Bulukiya in the State by the State Universal Basic Education Board. b) Request for Funds to Enable the Construction/Provision of Infrastructure (Hostels, Classrooms and Perimeter Wall Fence) and Furnishing at the Newly Upgraded Government Technical College, Dambatta and Girl’s Science and Technical College, Karaye:Provision of qualitative education at all levels and in all ramifications is among the top priorities of the present administration. The physical/infrastructural, material/ consumables, manpower, etc. requirements are continuously being provided since the inception of the second tenure of this administration as promised. Many new Primary/Junior (Basic Education) Schools, Senior Secondary Schools have been established along with the construction of additional number of classrooms in existing ones. Activities of the Community Reorientation Committees (CRC) ensure the execution of repairs where necessary, feeding primary School pupils across the 44 LGCs and the provision of uniforms for new intakes. The newly established Governor’s College (and the proposed First Lady’s College) tops the list of the established Senior Secondary Schools in Nigeria. At tertiary or post-Secondary level, this administration’s performance is impeccable. One additional University (i.e.

Northwest University, Kano) has been established along with twenty (20) skill acquisition Schools/Centers.

In any case, some schools upgraded to Technical Colleges require some effort in order to address the accommodation and infrastructural problems caused by the growing number of students admitted into the Schools. Government Technical College Dambatta and Girl’s Science and Technical College Karaye are among the recently upgraded Schools to their current status courtesy of the present administration. The two Schools require infrastructures like student hostels, classrooms, wall fence and furniture. Upgrading the two (2) Schools necessitates the provision of the following as identified by the Ministry of Education: SN PROPOSED PROJECT COST (N) i.

Construction of Student Hostel block, renovation of two (2) abandoned Student Hostels, perimeter wall fence and furnishing of infrastructures at GTC Dambatta 64,963,383.68

ii.

Rabi’u Musa Kwankawaso

Construction of two (2) duplex Classroom blocks, two (2) Student Hostel blocks, twin Science laboratory block, 890M long perimeter wall fence, reticulation of water and electricity supplies and furnishing of infrastructure at GSTC, Karaye 84,442,865.97 TOTAL

149,406,249.65

As such, the Ministry of Education requested Council to consider the details presented and approve the release of the aggregate sum of N149,406,249.65 to enable the execution of the stated projects at the locations mentioned above so as to actualize the envisaged purpose for upgrading the two Schools.

The request was considered relevant and in agreement with the resolved policy of the present administration to provide qualitative education at all levels and in all ramifications. Council approved the release of the requested aggregate sum of N149,406,249.65 to the Ministry of Education to enable the execution of the projects according to the specifications presented so as to actualize the achievement of the envisaged goals for upgrading the two (2) Schools. c)

Request for Funds to Enable the Establishment of Nine (9) Technical Colleges in Nine (9) Local Government Council Areas (LGCAs) of the State:Among the commendable resolutions embarked upon by the present administration is the provision of opportunities and access to the acquisition of required applicable skills for the teeming youth to be empowered for self–reliance/employment and concurrently increase the middle cadre manpower in the State to cater for industries requiring their services.

As such, details on the scope of work and general requirements for the establishment of nine (9) Technical Colleges in nine (9) LGCAs of the State were presented for consideration by Council from the Ministry of Education.

The details presented indicated that the sum of N471,009,940.85 is required for the establishment of one (1) Technical College totaling up to the aggregate sum of N4,239,089,467.60 for the nine (9) proposed. Nevertheless, the Ministry of Education recommended the execution of the entire project in two (2) phases beginning with the first phase costing N177,975,865.79 per one (1) Technical College totaling up to the aggregate sum of N1,601,782,810.11, which was requested for release by Council to enable the execution of the first phase of the entire project for the establishing of nine (9) Technical Colleges in nine (9) LGCAs of the State. Details were presented for consideration by Council.

Council noted, considered and approved the release of the requested aggregate sum of N1,601,782,810.11 to the State Ministry of Education to enable the execution of the first of two (2) phases of projects for the establishment of nine (9) Technical Colleges in nine (9) LGCAs across the State in accordance with policy of the present administration. A contributory formula of 50%:50% basis was approved between the State and the nine (9) concerned LGCAs towards the construction of the schools. d) Request for Funds to Enable the Establishment of Thirty-Eight (38) Schools for Islamic Studies:The Honorable Commissioner, Ministry of Education substantiated to Council, through the contents of this memorandum that Kano State has the highest number of Islamiyya Primary Schools both public and private in Nigeria with a staggering number of students who need to continue with their Secondary Education. This makes the need for the provision/establishment of Islamiyya Secondary Schools necessary to accommodate products of the Islamiyya Primary Schools paramount.

The Ministry of Education recommended to Council to consider approving the establishment of thirty-eight (38) Schools of Islamic Studies; one (1) each in thirty-eight (38) LGCAs of the State. The estimated cost for the establishment of each School was presented in details for consideration by Council to the sum of N458,517,500.39 to be executed in two phases with an estimated sum of N170,620,264.94 covering the first phase per School. This totals up to the aggregate sum of N6,483,570,072.72 for the execution of the first phase of the project on the establishment of 38 Schools of Islamic Studies in 38 LGCAs in the State, which was requested for release by Council.

Credibility of the request prompted Council to approve the release of the sum of N6,483,570,072.72 to the Ministry of Education to enable the execution of the first of two (2) phases of projects on contributory formula of 50%:50% between the State and the thirty-eight (38) LGCAS concerned to be used in funding the project. e) Presentation of the Need and Request for Funds to Renovate Dilapidated Buildings and Construction of Perimeter Wall Fence at GSS Dambatta, Dambatta LGCA:The contents of this memorandum substantiated the need to renovate the dilapidated buildings at GSS Dambatta caused by age and lack of repairs for years. A perimeter wall fence is required to be constructed so as to enhance the security of students and property in the School.

Details on the scope of works required were presented to Council for consideration at the aggregate cost of the sum of N83,610,239.43, which was requested for release by Council to enable the execution of the projects. Council noted, considered and approved the release of the requested sum of N83,610,239.43 to the Ministry of Education to enable the immediate execution of the projects. f) Request for Funds to Enable the Implementation of Outstanding Promotions, Advancements and Correct

THE NATION MONDAY, JULY 1, 2013 Salaries of Teaching and Non – Teaching Staff Serving at the 44 LGCAs Across the State:The Honorable Commissioner, Ministry of Education reminded Council of the Executive directive issued to the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) and other parastatals of the Ministry of Education during its 72nd Sitting of 3rd December, 2012 to implement all pending cases of promotion via Executive Council Extract NO. SSCA/CA/EX/5/l/87.

Consequently, SUBEB has collated all pending cases of promotions, advancements and correct salary placement of all teaching and non–teaching staff across the 44 LGCAs of the State. A total of 32,806 staff are to benefit from the exercise with a total monetary implication of N274,872,811.43 monthly effective from June,2013.

As such, the Ministry of Education requested Council to approve the release of the sum of N274,872,811.43 monthly effective from June, 2013 to enable implementation of promotions, advancements and correct salary placements of 32,806 teaching and non–teaching Staff serving in the 44 LGCAs of the State.

The request was considered credible as Council approved.

OFFICE OF THE DEPUTY GOVERNOR/HON. COMMISSIONER MINISTRY FOR LOCAL GOVERNMENTS This Office submitted two (2) memoranda for deliberation by Council. Both were approved for execution as follows:

3.

a)

Presentation of the Outcome from the Visit of the State Team to Malaysia for the Dual Purposes of Visiting the 501 Kano State Indigenous Kwankwasiyya Postgraduate Students Sponsored for Studies in Malaysian Universities and Recruitment of Expatriate Senior Academic Staff for Northwest University, Kano and Kano University of Science and Technology (KUST), Wudil:The Deputy Governor/Hon. Commissioner for Local Governments, reminded Council of its approval granted for the members of the Implementation Committee for Northwest University, Kano to undertake visit to the 501 Kwankwasiyya Postgraduate students sponsored for studies in eleven (11) countries across the World. The team combined their assignment with the recruitment of expatriate Senior Academic Staff in the fields of Sciences for the two (2) State owned Universities of (Northwest University and KUST) from Egypt, Malaysia and India.

The team that conducted the exercise in Malaysia undertook their trip from 5 th – 20 th May, 2013 and submitted its report promptly. Details were presented for consideration by Council indicating that 71 students are pursuing their postgraduate studies in Malaysia. Out of this number 19 students are undergoing various Masters Degree at the University of Technology Malaysia, 13 students are in University of Malaya, 3 students are in International Islamic University, 20 students are in Al-Madinah International University, 6 students are in University Putra Malaysia and 1 student at the University Utara Malaysia.

The team while there interacted with both students and the Management of the six Universities and submitted that: i. The students were all in good health and sound moral condition ii. The students expressed their gratitude to the Governor for this laudable program, and iii. The Nigeria High Commission in Malaysia should be utilized in future while seeking admission for the State students.

Council acknowledged the presentation in appreciation. b) Request for Funds to Enable the Procurement of Tricycles Ambulances For Local Government Hospitals/ Comprehensive Health Centers:The matter referred above was presented earlier to Council for consideration and approval on Wednesday 12 th June, 2013.

Details on the need and credibility of the request were presented on the procurement of the Tricycles Ambulance Vehicles for use at the Local Government Hospitals/Comprehensive Health Centers for the transportation of patients from inaccessible/ remote areas. Each Tricycles Ambulance costs the sum of N1,204,500.00.

Council noted, considered and approved the procurement of two (2) Tricycles Ambulance Vehicles for use by each of the 44 LGCAs and instructed the Office of the Deputy Governor/Hon. Commissioner Ministry for Local Governments to handle the issue administratively in view of the significance of the request.

4.

MINISTRY OF WATER RESOURCES Three (3) memoranda were submitted for deliberation by Council from the Ministry of Water Resources. All were approved for execution as follows: a) Request for Funds to Effect the Replacement of Four (4) 16650 KVA Perkins Electricity Generators with Caterpillar Brand at Tamburawa Water Treatment Plant:The electric power/energy required to power the machinery available and in use at all water treatment plants in the State is only provided epileptically by PHCN attended by incessant outages, which necessitate the usage of standby electricity generators. Various makes of electricity generators are used for the purpose. The contents of this memorandum reminded Council of its approval granted for the purchase and installation of four (4) brand new 1650 KVA Perkins Brand of electricity generators at the new Tamburawa Water Treatment Plant. One more was installed as back up for the earlier four (4) installed.

Nevertheless, these five (5) existing and utilized Perkins brand of 1650 KVA electricity generators were discovered to be not robust enough to provide/withstand the starting power requirement of the high–lift pumps at the New Tamburawa Water Treatment Plant. As such, the State Water Board concluded and recommended for the replacement of the Perkin brand 1650 KVA electricity generators with Caterpillar brand.

The Ministry of Water Resources requested Council to consider and approve the following: i.

Change of brand electricity generators to be supplied to Tamburawa Water Treatment Plant under the contract awarded to Messrs. Salfat Limited from 1650 KVA Perkins brand to 3512 B/1500 KVA Caterpillar brand and payment of difference of N11,646,220.00. ii.

Procurement and installation of additional brand new three (3) units of Caterpillar brand electricity generators model 3512/1500 KVA at the new Tamburawa Water Treatment Plant at the total cost of N207,685,800.00. iii. Transfer and installation of two (2) 1500KVA Perkins brand electricity generators from Tamburawa Water Treatment Plant to Wudil Regional Water Scheme by the State Water Board at the cost of N2,600,000.00.

The Ministry of Water Resources requested Council to approve the release of the aggregate sum of N221,932,020.00 to enable the execution of the itemized (i.– iii.) projects mentioned above.

Council noted, considered and approved the release of requested sum of N221,932,020.00 to the Ministry of Water Resources to

79 enable the execution of the three (3) projects itemized above in order to restore and improve the electricity requirements at the locations cited for their significance in facilitating steady potable water supply to greater Kano and the Regional Water Supply Scheme cited. b) Request for Funds to Enable the Procurement of 3,850 Lengths of 1000MM Ductile Iron Pipes and Fittings for Tamburawa – Hadejia Road Water Pipeline Project:The contents of this memorandum notified Council that the Water Treatment Plant at Tamburawa was constructed with a capacity to produce up to 180 million litres of water per day, while the average carrying capacity of the existing 1000MM water pipeline is only 90 million litres of water per day. As such, it is impossible for the existing pipeline to carry the current improved water supply especially with the advent of improved generation of electricity at the Tamburawa Water Treatment Plant making the plant to operate at 100% capacity.

To operate at 100% capacity, Kano State Water Board proposed the provision of additional 1000MM Ductile Iron Water Pipeline to run parallel with the existing one up to Zaria Road Interchange at which a new Water Pipeline will be directed to link up with Hadejia Road via the Eastern Bye – Pass. N2,963,865,445.25 is estimated as required for the purpose, which was requested for release by Council to the Ministry of Water Resources to enable execution. Details were presented for consideration.

Approval was granted for the release of the requested sum of N2,963,865,445.25 to the Ministry of Water Resources to enable the procurement of 3,850 Lengths of 1000MM Ductile Iron pipes for the Pipeline project as the project is congruent with the resolution of the present administration to provide potable water supply for the citizens of Kano State. c) Request for Funds to Enable the Procurement of 5600 Lengths 400MM Ductile Iron Pipes and Fittings for Watari – Tsanyawa Water Pipeline Project:The incumbent administration in Kano State is determined to take potable water supply to all nooks and corners of Kano State irrespective of whether such locations are rural/regional or urban/ within greater Kano.

To supply potable water to Tsanyawa town and surroundings, 5600 Lengths of 400MM Ductile Iron Pipes and fittings are required at the cost of N1,002,872,773.45, which was requested for release

by Council. Details were presented for consideration.

Council noted, considered and approved the release of the requested sum of N1,002,872,773.45 to the Ministry of Water Resources to enable the procurement of 5600 lengths of 400MM Ductile Iron Pipes and fitting for Watari – Tsanyawa water pipeline project in view of the significance of the project to the provision of potable water supply to Tsanyawa town and its surrounding.

5.

MINISTRY OF JUSTICE The Attorney/Hon. Commissioner, Ministry of Justice intimated Council of findings of a Committee set up to verify claims on the embezzled sum of N34,371,271.65, which belonged to over one hundred (100) poor Orphans. The said money was misappropriated by the Accounts Clerk attached to the City Sharia Court in connivance with other highly placed Judicial Officers.

With the imprisonment of the culprit and retirement of a Judge, Council was requested to extend its typical magnanimity and grant approval for the release of N34,371,271.65 for disbursement to the legitimate owners who are poor orphans and mostly heirs to deceased parents.

The request was considered credible as Council approved the release of the sum of N34,371,271.65 to the Ministry of Justice for disbursement to the properly established legitimate owners.

MINISTRY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY 6.

Request for Funds for the Payment of Registration, Examination and Administrative Charges In Respect of 160 IDITC 132/ADNCS Kano Information Institute Students (Term II – 2013 Only):The Ministry of Science and Technology informed Council through the contents of this memorandum that 160 among the 200 students admitted as the 3 rd batch of trainees at the Kano Informatics Institute have emerged successful and qualified to proceed with the International Diploma Segment of the Course (IDITC) while another set of 132 students are already undergoing the International Advanced Diploma Course (ADNCS).

Consequently, the Jigawa State Institute of Information Technology as the main provider of the Courses wrote a letter with reference number JGS/IIT/REC/KNS/Vol.1/71 requesting for the payment of registration, examination and administrative charges in respect of the two (2) sets of students. The charges total up to the aggregate sum of N28,953,800.00, which was requested for release by Council to the State Ministry of Science and Technology to enable effecting the requested payment.

Council noted, considered the details presented and approved the release of the sum of N28,953,800.00 to the Ministry of Science and Technology to effect the requested payments for registration, examination and administration charges to the Jigawa State Informatics Institute in respect of 160 IDITC and 132 IADNCS Kano Informatics Institute Students (Term II – 2013 only) according to the details presented.

7.

MINISTRY OF HEALTH The Kano State Ministry of Health submitted three (3) memoranda for consideration by Council. All were approved for execution.

Thus: a)

Presentation of the Need and Request for Funds to Facilitate Landscaping/Fortification of the Constructed Sorting/Distribution Shade at Former KASCO Warehouse at Rangaza Yadakunya Road:The Honorable Commissioner, Ministry of Health reminded Council of its directive issued during its sitting of Wednesday 15 th May, 2013, for the Kano Urban Planning and Development Authority (KNUPDA) to undertake the project of landscaping and provision of burglar proof/protective device to the existing shade at former KASCO Warehouse in Rangaza to prepare the place for the storing/distribution of Hospital Consumables and equipment to the State Health Centers.

KNUPDA complied and submitted cost implications for the execution of the project to the tune of the sum of N7,273,140.00, which was requested for release by Council to the Ministry of Health to enable KNUPDA execute the Executively directed project stated above.

Considering genesis of the project, Council approved the release of the sum of N7,273,140.00 to the Ministry of Health to enable KNUPDA execute the project. b)

Request for Funds to Facilitate Required General Repairs/ Renovation of Minjibir General Hospital:The General Hospital at Minjibir town has been identified as being among the Healthcare Delivery facilities that suffered neglect for a considerable length of time. This compelled authorities at the State Ministry of Health to request for the release of the sum of N69,063,561.66 by Council to effect the necessary repairs/ renovation works required to refurbish the General Hospital at

Minjibir Town. Details were presented to Council for consideration.

Council noted, considered and approved the release of the requested sum of N69,063,561.66 to the Ministry of Health to enable execution of the general repairs/renovation project at the Minjibir General Hospital according to the details presented.

This will only add to the multitude number of Healthcare Delivery facilities that benefitted the same gesture by the incumbent administration. Examples are Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital, Muhammad Abdullahi Wase Specialist Hospital, Hasiya Bayero Pediatric Hospital, Gaya General Hospital, etc. c) Presentation of the Need and Request for Funds to Enable the Repairs/Construction of Additional Structures at Kunchi Primary Health Center:Council recalled the commitment of this administration in the provision of improved healthcare delivery services across the State for the general wellbeing of the populace. In so doing, the State Government has renovated/expanded and upgraded numerous health facilities, which were neglected by the previous administrations, with the aim of providing at least one Cottage/ General Hospital per Local Government. This explains the contents of this memorandum requesting for the renovation and expansion of Kunchi Primary Health Center to the status of a Cottage Hospital.

Council promptly approved the release of the requested sum of N85,593,957.95 to the State Ministry of Health to enable the execution of the project mentioned above. This was in order to take transformation of the entire Health Sector/System and delivery of services to all nooks and crannies of the State as resolved by the incumbent administration. Details on the scope of works required for the project were presented for consideration

by Council.

MINISTRY OF FINANCE 8.

Provision of access to decent and affordable housing/residence for the citizenry in Kano State is among the cardinal and laudable preoccupations of the present administration in Kano State as heralded and celebrated by the execution of the following: · Sale of GP houses to their occupants. · Construction and distribution of 2 bedroom proto–type housing units at Makoda, Kunchi, Warawa and Kwankwaso to flood victims. · Construction and development of commercial housing units at Kwankwasiyya, Amana and Bandirawo cities, etc.

Progressively the promoters for the Housing projects at Amana, Bandirawo and Kwankwasiyya cities, which include the Kano State Investment Property (KSIP), and Kano State Housing Corporation were provided with a treasury loan of N5.4Billion to supplement the N2.6Billion lent by the Kano State Pension Fund Trustees.

Further, an additional treasury loan of N2Billion was requested for release to the promoters through the Ministry of Finance under the same profit sharing arrangement of 40% percent to the State and 60% to the promoters pending the receipts of sales inflow from the project.

Council considered the level of progress at the project sites and the general viability of the project and approved granting of additional treasury loan of N2billion to the promoters of the projects at Kwankwasiyya, Bandirawo and Amana cities (i.e.

KSIP and Kano State Housing Corporation).

9.

MINISTRY OF LAND AND PHYSICAL PLANNING Request for Funds to Enable Payment for an Acquired House for Expansion of Dalba Islamic School in Dala LGCA:Dalba Islamic School is privately owned. The school serves the needs of the community, but has no space for expansion in response to demand from parents for the admission of their wards. The School sought for intervention by the magnanimous incumbent administration. Government responded by granting approval for the construction of one (1) Kwankwasiyya type block of classrooms in the School. Nevertheless, the space had to be acquired by purchasing the adjacent houses to the School valued at the cost of N5,000,000.00, which was requested for release by Council to the Ministry of Land and Physical Planning.

Council approved the release of the requested sum of N5,000,000.00 to the Ministry of Land and Physical Planning for the purchase of the houses adjacent and donate it to the School for expansion so as to serve the Community better.

UPDATE ON ACTIVITIES OF 104TH EXCO SITTING HONORABLE MINISTER OF AGRICULTURE OFFICIAL VISIT TO KANO Council extended its profound gratitude to the Hon. Minister of Agriculture Mr. Akinwumi Adeshina on his official working visit to the State where he commended the State Government’s agricultural transformation strategy as a mirror for other State Governments to copy from. He promised to collaborate and support the State in the establishment and improvement of agricultural facilities, fertilizer and insecticides for improved produce.

RETREAT FOR THE STATE GOVERNMENT TOP POLITICAL OFFICE HOLDERS AND DIRECTORS AT ABUJA Council noted the successful retreat exercise conducted by the Office of the Head of Civil Service for Top Government officials, Political Office Holders, Permanent Secretaries, and Directors of the State Civil Service towards the attainment of the set projects and programs of present administration.

CONVOCATION CEREMONY OF GRADUATE STUDENTS FROM BAYERO UNIVERSITY KANO Council noted the 33rd Bayero University Kano Convocation Ceremony. Council wished the graduates success in their future endeavors.

DEPUTY GOVERNOR’S OFFICIAL VISIT TO REVENUE MOBILIZATION, ALLOCATION AND FISCAL COMMISSION ABUJA Council noted the recent successful official visit by the Deputy Governor Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje to the Office of the Revenue Mobilization, Allocation and Fiscal Commission, Abuja where issues were discussed on how Kano State Government would access the Natural Resources Development Fund for the benefits of the State.

Signed: Hon. Commissioner, Information, Internal Affairs, Youth, Sports & Culture, Kano State

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THE NATION MONDAY, JULY 1, 2013

81

NEWS

NUPENG begins three-day warning strike today

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HE Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) has said it will begin a three-day warning strike today.

In a statement yesterday in Lagos by its General-Secretary, Mr Isaac Aberare, the union said its workers would go on strike over alleged unfair labour practices by some major oil companies in the country.

“The strike is also to protest the refusal of NARTO to implement the signed collec-

Obama promises $7b for power in Nigeria, six others

U

•Aba residents in panic buying

From Sunny Nwankwo, Aba

tive bargaining agreement with the petroleum tanker drivers.

“We are also unhappy over the bad state of roads across the nation,” the statement said.

It alleged that efforts by the Federal Ministry of Labour to intervene in the matter three weeks ago failed.

The union said the oil multinationals failed to implement the agreement reached by the Minister of Labour, Chief Emeka Wogu.

The statement alleged that the union’s call for a stakeholders’ meeting in the oil and gas sector to address the situation was also ignored.

It directed NUPENG members at various depots to stop loading petroleum products in

•Wogu

the next three days.

“Members at the branches in the country must also follow suit,” the statement said.

Courts admits pictures of ex-Governor Idris’ houses

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LOKOJA High has admitted as exhibits the pictures of the houses allegedly belonging to former Kogi State Governor Ibrahim Idris.

Former House of Representatives member, from Kabba/Ijumu, Dino Melaiye, had sued the former governor for what he described as a first degree corruption allegedly committed by Idris.

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From Muhammad Bashir, Lokoja

The seven houses, all in Abuja, include a home at 99 Kwame Nkrumah Street, Asokoro; Gubabi Royal Hotel, Wuse Zone 5; Dreamland Suites, Jabi; Summerset Suites, Maitama; Palmac Hotel, Maitama, Executive Suites and Grand Ibro Hotel.

Arguing on the admission of the evidence as exhibits, counsel to the defendant, Pius Akubo (SAN), objected to the documents as evidence.

He averred that the photographs of the buildings, which were tendered, had been tampered with.

The lawyer argued that the writings on the pictures were done with long hand, which he said was not the same

Soldiers razed down five wards in Baga, say police

OLDIERS fired wildly “at anybody in sight” during the deadly April incident in the Borno State, a police report cited yesterday by the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) said.

Troops completely “razed” five wards in Baga during the rampage, according to police findings quoted in the rights commission’s new report.

The incident was reportedly sparked by the killing of a

soldier.

The police report on the violence, which began on April 16 in Nigeria’s remote Northeastern state and continued into the following day, had not been previously made public.

The Red Cross has said 187 people were killed during the incident, while a senator representing the area in the National Assembly put the death toll at 228.

Nigeria’s military has de-

nied accusations of abuses, insisting 37 people were killed, 30 of who it said were militants, six civilians and a soldier.

Military officials further that denied fires were lit during the violence, saying they were caused by Islamist insurgents terrorising the region.

The commission report, a copy of which was given to AFP, says police provided the same death toll as the military, though it does not say if the

Sultan: leadership failure responsible HE Sultan of Sokoto and for Nigeria’s stagnation President-General of the

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Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI), Alhaji Mohammad Sa’ad Abubakar said yesterday Nigeria has stagnated because its leaders have refused to make things work.

Also, Kaduna State Governor Mukthar Ramalan Yero urged Islamic scholars to refrain from using the Muslim holy month of Ramadan to cast aspersion on people without proper investigation.

Both personalities spoke at a national conference on the role of Muslim scholars in fostering unity, peace and security in Nigeria. The event was organised by JNI.

From Tony Akowe, Kaduna

The Sultan said the nation cannot move forward when leaders are made to believe that they are always right.

He said: “We cannot move forward when we tell a leader that he is always right. No leader is always right in this circumstance. So many things have gone wrong in this country, and they are still going wrong. So many things are not working because the leaders refuse to allow them to work.”

Abubakar noted that the Muslim world was facing

daunting challenges, adding: “We are very aware, just like any other people across the world, of the challenges facing us as Muslims, not only in Nigeria. We believe somebody somewhere is pulling the strings.”

The Sultan, who is the CoChairman of the Nigeria InterReligious Council, also said: “We will not allow anybody to stop us from being Muslims because that is what God brought to us; that is what we chose to be. We will not allow anybody to turn our lives upside down...”

Aviation unions plan showdown with IRS HE Trade Union Conover workers’ salary gress (TUC) will lead

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with the one sought to be tendered.

Akubo urged the court to reject the documents to enhance fair hearing.

He described the documents as an ambush on the opponent.

But counsel to the plaintiff, Benson Igbanoi, argued that the documents should not be rejected because of its relevance to the case.

two aviation workers’ unions - the National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers (NAAPE) and the Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSSAN) – to picket IRS Airlines over unpaid workers’ salaries of the airline.

The unions had threatened the airline with a strike, if it failed to settle the workers’ salary arrears.

The unions are seeking the collaboration of TUC to press for the rights of aviation workers, who are owed salaries by their management but cannot seek redress because they are not unionised.

Workers of the airline, who said they were being owed salary arrears, have urged the Nigeria Civil Avi-

By Kelvin Osa-Okunbor

ation Authority (NCAA) to wade into the matter.

They workers alleged that the non-payment of salaries by the airline could threaten safety in the industry.

A forthright ago, ATSSSAN gave July 1 as the deadline for all domestic airlines to unionise so that it could press for the rights of airline workers who were being owed salaries.

Court to visit site of Abuja’s 500 demolished houses today From Eric Ikhilae, Abuja

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JUSTICE Danladi Senchi of the Abuja High Court will today move his court to the site where 500 housing units were allegedly demolished unlawfully by officials of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA).

The judge, last Thursday, agreed to inspect the estate project - Minanuel Estate - where the 500 housing units were reportedly demolished by men of the FCTA. The project, located on the Nnamdi Azikiwe Airport Road, was allegedly demolished illegally last year by the FCTA, forcing the subscribers to go to court.

victims were civilians.

Brig.-Gen. Chris Olukolade, a Defence headquarters spokesman, told AFP that the military stood by its previous account.

The police report differed from what had been previously discussed between the police and military, he conceded, but declined to provide further details.

NITED States President Barack Obama pledged $7 billion yesterday to help combat frequent power blackouts in sub-Saharan Africa. Funds from the initiative, dubbed Power Africa, will be distributed over the next five years.

“More than two-thirds of the population of sub-Saharan Africa is without electricity, and more than 85 per cent of those living in rural areas lack access,” the White House said in a statement.

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Sub-Saharan Africa will need more than $300 billion to achieve universal electricity access by 2030, the statement said.

The preliminary setup will include Ethiopia, Kenya, Liberia, Nigeria, Tanzania, Uganda and Mozambique.

“These countries have set ambitious goals in electric power generation, and are making the utility and energy sector reforms to pave the way for investment and growth,” the statement said.

AIB to release belongings of Dana Air crash victims

HIRTEEN months after 153 passengers aboard Dana Air McDonnel Douglas 83 aircract, died in a crash at Iju/Ishaga, on the outskirts of Lagos, the Accident Investigation Bureau ( AIB), yesterday said it would be releasing some items belonging to the victims of the crash to their relations.

The belongings were recovered from the wreckage of the illfated aircraft , which crashed into residential buildings in Iju/ Ishaga, Lagos.

According to a statement by the AIB, and signed by its Head of Public Affairs, Mr Tunji Oketunbi, relations of the victims of the crash are advised to visit the bureau’s office at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Ikeja, Lagos for identification and collection of the items.

Oketunbi said a lot of belongings were recovered from the crash site including : bags, jewelries laptops, phones, cash and identity cards that were badly affected by fire and the impact of the crash.

Police warn vehicle owners

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HE Lagos State Police Command and the Deputy InspectorGeneral in charge of Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) have warned vehicle owners parked at Oloso Divisional Police Station, Mushin, and the FCID Alagbon, Ikoyi, Lagos, to remove them or lose them to the public through an auction after 21 days of this publication. The vehicles are: BMW car, KY428AAA; Honda Accord car, AJ243EKY; Mercedes Benz , AA919MBA; Mitsubishi car, DG14LND; Mercedes Benz car, AP992FK; Volvo car, BD470YAB and Mercedes Benz car, CE689MUS.

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82

NEWS

Police relocate corps members

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From Bisi Olaniyi, Port Harcourt

HE Rivers State Police Command has shut three Corpers’ Lodges in Abua/Odual Local Government Area, following Saturday’s kidnap of three members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC).

The lodges are located in Ogonokom, Otapha and Egbelom communities. The police relocated other corps members from the three communities to the Ominama Corpers’ Lodge at Abua Central.

Gunmen kidnapped Ogochi Martins, Chijioke Richard and Esther Nwachukwu, who were serving at the Community Secondary School, Ogonokom.

The kidnappers are yet to contact the victims’ families and the authorities of the NYSC. Police spokesperson Mrs. Angela Agabe yesterday said more security operatives have been drafted to the area.

NLC kicks against planned removal of minimum wage from exclusive list

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HE Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) yesterday raised the alarm as the Senate made efforts at removing the national minimum wage law from the Exclusive List-in defiance of reason, popular opinion and protection of the interest of the weak and the vulnerable.

According to the NLC President, Comrade Abdulwahed Omar, in a statement yesterday, the “removal will unnecessarily expose workers, especially, those in the low-income bracket with grave implications for security, productivity and national well-being, as most state governments if

From John Ofikhenua, Abuja

given the latitude, will pay wages as low as one thousand Naira per month in spite of the relative enormous resources available to them.

“This fear is justified or underscored by the reluctance or refusal of some of them to implement the N18,000 minimum wage law. Even for some of them that implemented the law, it took a heroic struggle.”

Accordingly, the Nigeria Labour Congress is strongly opposed to the putting on the Concurrent List the minimum wage law.

Shell to governors: be transparent

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HE Managing Director of the Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC), Mutiu Sunmonu, has urged governors of the four major oil producing states - Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Delta and Rivers - to be prudent with the 13 per cent derivation funds accruing to their states.

Sunmonu, who spoke at the Extractive Business Dialogue on Corruption organised by the Nigerian Economic Summit Group, in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital, noted that there was a perception that corruption is a barrier to turning the oil revenues into benefits for the citizens.

Clark/Orubebe feud: Minister fights back T HE last has not been heard on the feud between the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Godsday Orubebe and Ijaw leader Chief Edwin Clark.

The minister’s supporters have petitioned the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), asking it to probe allegations of fraudulent conduct involving a firm they said belongs to Clark, a First Republic Federal Commissioner for Information.

Clark, who is opposed to Orubebe’s governorship ambition in Delta State, had recently petitioned the EFCC, alleging fraudulent conduct by the minister.

Last Friday, some elders of the state’s chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) submitted a petition at the Abuja headquarters of the EFCC. The petitioners claimed that Panama Construction Company Limited (PCCL) allegedly failed in the execution of contracts worth billions of naira after collecting mobilisation fees.

Clark has denied the allegations contained in the petition.

He urged the EFCC to investigate both petitions and make its findings public in seven days.

Clark said if it fails to make public its findings, he would sue the commission.

The Orubube supporters, led by Alex Ikpeazu (Secretary, Delta State PDP Elders, Leaders and Stakeholders Forum), urged the EFCC to investigate the activities of the

•Supporters petition EFCC •Clark denies allegations From Eric Ikhilae, Abuja

company to authenticate the allegations contained in the petition.

The petitioners alleged that PCCL left some projects unexecuted after allegedly collecting mobilisation fees from the state government.

They particularly alleged that “Panama Construction Company, located at 5 Swamp Road, Warri and owned by Clark abandoned the N1.4 billion reclamation/ shore protection job at Amazama, Rivers State, awarded to it by the Ministry of Niger Delta even though it was given N215 million on December 31, 2011.

“Similarly, Panama Con-

struction Ltd was awarded a 10.3km Aladja-Isaba Road Project in Delta State in 2006 for N595 million and surprisingly seven years after, no meaningful job has been done.

“How does putting a development project in the community of a public officer translate into economic crime? This tells any discerning mind that the petition was designed to achieve ulterior motives other than unsolicited and selfimposed desire to join EFCC to fight corruption.”

Clark’s spokesman Dotun Sowemimo denied that his company got funds from the Delta State Government and failed to execute the project for which the funds were

meant.

“There is no fact in the petition. It contains tissues of lies concocted to tarnish the image of this principled statesman, who has built a good name for himself.

Clark’s lawyer, Kayode Ajulo also denied the allegation. He urged the EFCC to investigate allegations in both the petitions by Clark and Orubebe’s supporters and make public its findings within seven days.

“The ball is now in EFCC’s court. We want the EFCC to look at the two petitions and come out with its findings. If it (EFCC) cannot do that in the next seven days, we will go to court.

“The petition is baseless. I don’t want to prejudge the outcome of EFCC’s investigation. I don’t want it to appear as I am defending my client on the pages of newspapers.

“I urge EFCC to thoroughly investigate the two petitions and come out with its report,” Ajulo said.

INEC to deploy electronic card readers in 2015 election, says Jega

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HE Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) will deploy electronic card readers at all polling stations to read the biometric information of voters during the 2015 polls, its Chairman Prof. Attahiru Jega said yesterday.

Jega said permanent voter registration card will be issued to voters which will contain their biometric information, by the end of this year.

The INEC chairman spoke last night on the need for electoral reform in Nigeria at a dinner organised by the National Old Students’ Association of Olivet Baptist High School, Oyo, Oyo State at the Sheraton Hotel in Ikeja, Lagos.

Jega said the commission is already in receipt of permanent registration voter cards which will be distributed to Nigerians by the end of this year. The new voter cards, he said, has significant security feature which will make it impossible for unscrupulous politicians to use it to com-

T

By Seun Akioye

mit electoral fraud.

“We believe by 2015, we will be confident that there are no multiple registration in our database and we will be so confident that we can introduce technology to further add credibility to the electoral system,” he said.

Jega added: “ We are going to introduce permanent voters card, as I speak with you we have received from the supplier over 20 million cards and by the end of this year we will begin to distribute them.

The key feature of this permanent voter cards is that it has an embedded chip that carries all the biometric that we have gathered and in 2015, God willing, we will deploy card readers that will read the information on this card, authenticate the true holder and ensure that only the legitimate holder of the card will be accredited to vote,” Jega said.

The chairman also assured

Nigerians that even if corrupt politicians got hold of the voter cards it will be impossible for them to use. “Even if politicians’ succeed in buying these cards come voting day 2015, God willing, it will be useless. We believe this is an important step forward that can add to the credibility of the electoral process,” he said.

Jega added that the commission has successfully eliminated all multiple registration from the biometric database of voters before and after the 2011 elections assuring Nigerians that by 2015, there will be no case of multiple registration of voters thereby further enhancing the credibility of the electoral process.

“We now have a data base of biometric registration of voters of 73.5 million, I believe it is the best data base in this country presently and we have captured a range of variables for voters. We even have the telephone numbers of Nigerians. It’s a very rich database.”

Suspected cult leaders arrested

HE leader of a cult group in Obudu, Cross River State, has been arrested a police source said yesterday.

The suspect, identified as Edward, was arrested with his lieutenant, Otogo in Obudu and is being questioned at the State Police Headquarters on Diamond Hill, Calabar.

Bloody clashes between two rival groups, the Vikings Confraternity and the Ku Klux Klan, in Obudu reportedly left five people dead.

The clash, it was learnt, was a supremacy battle and was related to the September 21 local government elections.

According to the source, the suspects have mentioned other cult members, who are being trailed by the police.

The source said: “Some of them are known politicians and we have left a message with the council chairman and paramount ruler to tell those we are looking for to report at the Obudu Police Station or the police headquarters today because if they fail to do so they would be declared wanted.”

In Edo State, the police shot

From Nicholas Kalu, Calabar and Osemwengie Ben Ogbemudia, Benin

a robbery suspect, who was operating on the Benin bypass of the Lagos Benin Highway.

Police spokesman Moses Eguaveon confirmed the killing. He also confirmed a clash among cult groups at the Col-

lege of Education, Ekiadolor.

Eguaveon said: “Yes, there was an event at the school and there was a little quarrel but police went there immediately to quell the fight. There is no truth that anybody died.

The Divisional Police Officer (DPO) confirmed to me that he even held a meeting with the students’ representatives yesterday.”

Okada riders sue Oshiomhole

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WO residents of Edo State, Charles Apiloko and Osbert Agho, have sued Governor Adams Oshiomhole and five others at the Federal High Court for the ban on the use of motorcycles in three local government areas.

The plaintiffs are seeking a declaration that the governor’s announcement of the ban was unconstitutional and illegal.

In the suit, supported by a 24-point affidavit, the plaintiffs sought a declaration that the ban was a violation of their rights to fair hearing and freedom of movement.

They are asking for an order of perpetual injunction restraining the governor, the

From Osagie Otabor and Osemwengie Ben Ogbemudia, Benin

Commissioner of Police, the State Director, State Security Services, Commandant, Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, Commandant Nigerian Army - 4 Brigade and the attorney-general from enforcing the ban.

The plaintiffs are demanding the order setting aside the governor’s verbal ban on use of motorcycle and to award N50million as general and/or exemplary damages/compensation for the breach of their fundamental rights.

Hearing has been slated for July 8.

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NEWS Rivers to begin house-numbering

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HE Rivers State Government will begin a comprehensive house numbering project to assist it take records of landed property.

Speaking with reporters in Lagos, the Managing Director, Vino Craff Ventures Ltd, Victor Umoh, whose firm is the consultant to the Ministry of Urban Development and Town Planning, said the project would be financed through private sector participation.

Umoh said Governor Rotimi Amaechi, through the Commissioner for Urban Development and Physical Planning, Tammy Danagogo, “saw the need to number all the houses in the state.”

“The Rotimi Amaechi-led government is poised to make sure that all the con-

•Senior Pastor, Okota Baptist Church, Rev Israel Jesuniyi (left); Chairman, Board of Trustees, Mr Olawuwo Esuola and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Energy andMineral Resource,s Mrs Regina Obasa (a pastor) at the church’s 30th anniversray and induction of Pastor, deacons and deaconesses in Lagos....yesterday PHOTO: ABIODUN WILLIAMS

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Police foil bank robbery in Delta

Anxiety as INEC declares Imo rerun inconclusive

HERE was tension yesterday in Imo State as the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declared the House of Assembly rerun election for Oguta Constituency inconclusive.

The Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Prof.

Selina Oko, cited discrepancies in some of the polling units where ballot boxes were snatched by thugs as reasons for withholding the result, pending elections in the affected areas.

But Governor Rochas Okorocha has congratulated the All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA) candidate, Walter Uzonwanne, for emerging victorious in the election which was said to be

•Okorocha congratulates APGA candidate From Okodili Ndidi, Owerri

fraught with violence.

The governor, however, condemned the anti-democratic activities of some Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftains, who he claimed had disenfranchised the people by writing election results in their homes.

He described the outcome of the election as a clear indication that the people are embracing the change being championed by his administration, adding that the APGA-led state government would continue to embark

on programmes that would impact positively on the lives of Oguta people.

In a statement by the Commissioner for Information, Chinedu Offor, the APGA candidate maintained a clear lead in the 11 wards where results were collated.

“As INEC prepares to officially announce the result of the rerun, the results so far collated in 11 wards show that the APGA candidate is maintaining a comfortable lead over the PDP candidate, Eugene Dibiagwu.

“The APGA candidate scored 9,595, his PDP coun-

terpart has 7,584 from the 18,634 number of votes cast during the election,” he insisted.

The state Chairman of APGA, Okoroafor Anyanwu, called on INEC to declare the results of the election, stating that: “The APGA candidate got the required number of votes to be declared winner, so the issue of declaring the election inconclusive is misleading.”

According to him, “the total number of registered voters in Oguta Council Area is 61,830. The number accredited for the election was 19,528, the valid votes cast were 17,488 and 1,146 votes were rejected. With the above record it is surprising that INEC could not declare the result of the election.”

NLNG v NIMASA: Fed Govt seeks to discharge order

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ditions given by the government are fulfilled. The project has a three- year tenor to allow for proper execution.”

The Executive Director, Emeka Ikechukwu, said the project is the first of its kind in the country.

He said customised and durable materials would be used to achieve this concept, such that it would be able to withstand all weather and climatic conditions.

“The project is to also serve as a housing census; this will give the government a good idea on budget planning and other re-numeration in the state.

“It will boost security measures as it will allow enforcement agencies locate a specific house without any stress.”

HE Federal Government has asked a Federal High Court, Lagos, to vacate an exparte order made against it in the dispute between Nigeria Liqufied Natural Gas (NLNG) and the Nigeria Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA).

Through its lawyer, Fabian Ajogwu (SAN), it filed a Motion on Notice dated June 27 asking the court to vacate or discharge the exparte order on the ground that it was made against NIMASA, which was not joined in the suit.

The order was made against the Attorney-General of the Federation, Mohammed Adoke (SAN), Global West Vessel Specialists Nigeria Limited and its Managing Director, Romeo Itima.

NLNG alleged they disobeyed an order made on June 18 by Justice Mohammed Idris and filed a contempt charge against them.

The judge had made the order of interim injunction restraining the defendants, either acting for or deriving authority from the Federal Government, including NIMASA, from charging three per cent of gross freight earnings, tax, charges or dues on all of NLNG’s international-bound and out-bound cargo, owned by it or its contractors or subsidiaries, pending the hearing and determi-

By Joseph Jibueze

nation of the motion for interlocutory injunction.

Adoke contends that NIMASA, being a body corporate with statutory powers to sue and be sued in its own name, should have been joined in the suit.

He said its non-inclusion as a party was a violation of the principles of fair hearing, which is that the other side should be heard.

The Federal Government argues that an order cannot be made against a person who is not a party to a suit as it is necessary that such party must be given the opportu-

T

nity to present his case.

Adoke said the dispute that gave rise to the suit was essentially between NLNG and NIMASA, and the noninclusion of NIMASA was deliberate move by NLNG to circumvent the provision of Section 53(2) the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency Act of 2007.

The section, the applicant said, makes it mandatory for an intending plaintiff to give the statutory body a 30-day pre-action notice.

Adoke said: “The reliefs granted the plaintiffs exparte are indeed, in form and substance essentially the reliefs being sought in the substantive suit.”

He said the court would not have granted the exparte order if not for an alleged misrepresentation, concealment and non-disclosure of material facts by NLNG. The government said there was no urgency whatsoever shown by NLNG, let alone extreme urgency, warranting the granting of the exparte orders against the defendants and NIMASA. The court had restrained the defendants from further detaining or preventing NLNG’s chartered vessels from carrying out import and export of gas through the Bonny channel or elsewhere in Nigeria.

‘Monarchs not attending forum’

RADITIONAL rulers from Anambra State will not attend the planned forum for traditional rulers from Southsouth and Southeast in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State tomorrow, the Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Alfred Achebe, said.

The Nation learnt that the government endorsed Achebe’s stand. Achebe said the council was not informed and some renegades should not be holding brief for the state council, which he presides over.

It was gathered that

From Odogwu Emeka Odogwu, Nnewi

Achebe was not happy that as Chairman he was not consulted.

Achebe was quoted by the Secretary to the State Government, Oseloka Obaze, as saying: “We learnt that some Anambra State traditional rulers are invited to a Southsouth/ Southeast Traditional Rulers Forum, co-sponsored

by Southeast Council of Traditional Rulers (SECTR) in Yenagoa on July 2.

“As you know,

Anambra State Traditional Rulers Council (ASTRC) ended relationship with SECTR over two years ago.

“That position subsists until the irregularities and unconstitutionality are resolved. Therefore, any Anambra State traditional ruler who attends that forum will violate the collective will of our traditional institution.

“The persistent attempt to divide and rule Anambra State traditional institution will be fully discussed at the July meeting of our Council.”

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HE Delta State Police Command has said it foiled bank robbery after a shootout, which left several people injured, including the police team leader.

This incident followed the bank robbery in Agbor, Ika South Local Government Area 10 days ago.

Police spokesman Lucky Uyabeme, who confirmed the incident, said the 12 gunmen escaped with gunshot injuries.

Uyabeme said the robbers were also involved in the Agbor robbery on June 21.

His words: “The same gang struck at a bank in Agbor branch and it was believed that the bank’s Operation Manager invited the robbers as the two keys to the strong room, which were supposed to be kept by two senior officials of the bank were in possession of the Operation Manager. The bank safe was left open and the CCTV was tampered with.”

He said the police team leader was responding to treatment.

Uyabeme said the police recovered 53 empty shells of AK47 rifle ammunition and two AK47 magazines with one containing four rounds of live ammunition.

Also recovered were a green Mazda 626 car with

From Okungbowa Aiwerie, Asaba

registration number, Lagos KTU 343 BJ with two gas cylinders, one shifting spanner and one digger; a green Ford Mondeo LX car with registration number Lagos EA 280 APP; and a grey Pathfinder SUV with registration number Lagos BS 247 EPE .

Uyabeme said the police acting on a tip-off engaged the robbers in a gun battle.

He said the hoodlums abandoned their mission and escaped through the Ibusa/Ogwashi-Uku axis.

He said the hoodlums stormed the bank in three vehicles at about 2am with gas cylinders which they attempted to use in blowingup the bank vaults.

Uyabeme said no arrest was made but maintained that his men were on the trail of the fleeing robbers.

PUBLIC NOTICE This is to infor the general public that, I OYEWOLE MOSES OYEDELE owner of 2 plots of land at no 2 Ilogbo Ajangbaji, that all documents, the receipt, survey plan with other vital document is missing and all effort to trace proved abortive. General public take note.

PUBLIC NOTICE

MOUNTAIN OF DIVINE TOUCH MINISTRIES INTERNATIONAL

The general public is hereby notify that the above named organisation has applied to the corporate Affairs Commission Abuja for registration under part C of the Companies and allied Matters Act.1990.

TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Pastor Michael Adeleke 2. Pastor (Mrs) Adeola adeleke\ 3. Pastor Micheal adesina.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. To preach teach propagate and demonstrate the full Gospel of Jesus Crist worldwide 2. To adevertise the second coming of Jesus Christ worldwide by all means 3. To organize crusades, seminars, conferences, prayer meetings, camp and establish prayer mountains and to plant churches either alone or with others anywhere in the world.

Any objection to the registration should be forwarded to the Registrar General, Corporate Affairs Commission P.M.B 198, Plot 420, Tigirs Cresent, off Aguyi Ironsi street, Maitama, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

SIGNED: Oladiipo Olayinka Esq

AUCTION AUCTION AUCTION!!!

On the instruction of ayobo\ipaja Local Council Development Area Lagos State there will be a public auction of unserviceable vehicles\plants within and outside the premises on thursday 4th july 2013 At 10:00am.Term of payment:Cash on the spot Auctioneer, chief E.Idowu Saliu Govt licence Auctioneer Tel:08033076919

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THE NATION MONDAY, JULY 1, 2013

NEWS Delta Senator Ewerhido dies at 50 Continued from page 4

tor’s colleagues in the upper chamber of the National Assembly.”

“The President joins them, members of the Ewherido family and the government and people of Delta State in mourning the distinguished legislator who served commendably as a member and deputy speaker of the Delta State of Assembly before his election as the Senator representing the Delta Central Senatorial District in the 2011 general elections.”

“President Jonathan prays that God Almighty will comfort Senator Ewherido’s family, relatives, colleagues in the National Assembly and all the people of his constituency.”

“He further prays that God will, in His infinite mercies, grant them the strength and fortitude to bear the painful loss of the very promising

politician at the relatively youthful age of 50.” He stated A statement by the Special Adviser (Media) to the Senate President, Mr. Kola Ologbondiyan, said Mark described the late lawmaker as a forthright and vibrant parliamentarian.

To Mark, the late Ewherido was one of the foremost and hardworking senators in the 7th Senate.

He said: “We have lost a true friend and colleague. We lost a vibrant and a very articulate senator. We have lost a patriotic Nigerian who stood to be counted when it mattered.”

He noted that one of Senator Ewherido’s bills on how to address manslaughter is undergoing thorough legislative works.

He added that the deceased should have been alive to see his good work aimed at saving mankind.

Mark promised that the Senate would ensure that the late Ewherido’s immediate family does not suffer.

He urged the government and people of Delta state especially the bereaved family to take solace in the fact that the late Senator lived an accomplished life worthy of emulation.

Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu described Ewerhido’s death as “sad and shocking”.

He said: “This is one death too devastating as Senator Ewherido was a staunch believer in the Nigerian project, a patriot, and hard working lawmaker who gave his very best to the nation.

“We have lost a legislative treasure, especially given the rich experience and insight he brought to the Senate, having served as a lawmaker in the Delta State House of Assembly and the House of Representatives.”

Amaechi, Wike in battle of wits after Jonathan’s visit Continued from page 4

Amaechi.

“The President also greeted PDP members at the airport; he did not isolate any group for the other. It was evident that they deliberately took the President’s and Amaechi’s photograph for mischief in the media.

“What they have done was to dish out a tissue of lies to deceive the media. We will release an official statement on Monday to let the public know what really hap-

pened.”

Asked of Wike’s photograph with the President, the top aide added: “We were not keen on any shot because we had no ill-motive.”

There were indications that Jonathan might have sold a dummy to Amaechi to show Nigerians that he has nothing against the governor.

A top source said: “They said they played politics at the Nigeria Governors Forum; the President also engaged in super politics at the airport. And Amaechi is

basking in the euphoria of the super politics.

“The Rivers State project is still on course because PDP stakeholders are yearning for change and they will get it in 2015.

“About two weeks ago, the First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan, made it clear that only ex-Governors Rufus Ada George and Peter Odili had done well in the state. So, do you think Jonathan will go to Rivers State and give Amaechi a pat on the back?

Read between the lines.”

JTF kills 50 Boko Haram suspects Continued from page 4

Lt. Col. Sagir Musa and Police spokesman Gideon Jubrin could not be reached to confirm the story.

Chief of Army Staff Lt. Gen. Azubuike Ihejirika yesterday said the military is winning the war on terrorism.

He added however that it is a war that has tested the Army because insurgents have been disguising as civilians to ambush soldiers.

Gen. Ihejirika spoke at the Inter-Denominational Service at the All Saints Military Protestant Church, Mogadishu Cantonment, Abuja, to mark the 2013 Army Day Celebration. The army is 150 years old.

He said the military had made tremendous achievements, but a lot still had to be done.

“Wining the war starts from in-house, I am aware of the improved capacity of the units, improved capacity of the officers and men, and this is what gives me the confidence that we will excel.

“And as for the operation itself, the nature of insurgency is such that you will continue to have occasional setbacks because you are deal-

ing with people who disguise as civilians,’’ he said.

Gen. Ihejirika said some soldiers had been ambushed a number of times in the current operation, adding that it was made possible by the fact that the insurgents disguise as civilians.

He said some of the soldiers might not be on their best guard.

Gen. Ihejirika said attitudinal change would “transform the Nigerian Army into a force able to deal with contemporary challenges.”

The Civilian JTF yesterday apprehended two women attempting to smuggle assault weapons into the Monday market in Maiduguri.

Eyewitnesses told the News Agency of Nigeria (NANS) that the women, who concealed the weapons in their dresses, were arrested at the Bulabulin entrance gate of the market.

One of the witnesses, Malam Modu Bulama, a trader, said that they were in the market when they heard noise from the gate.

“We rushed to scene, but on getting there, we saw two women in veil with assault weapons,’’ he said.

Bulama said each of the

women concealed an AK 47 rifle, a pistol and some items believed to be Improvise Explosive Devise (IED) in their veil.

A member of the gropu, Malam Usman Ibrahim, corroborated Bulama’s claim, adding: “we were on a routine checking at the gate when these women came with heavy veil.

“At first we did not bother to look at them, but we realised that one of them was shivering, we said something must be wrong,’’ Ibrahim said.

He said that when they were searched, “we found that each of them concealed an AK 47 rifle, a pistol and IED in their veil.

“We were surprised at the discovery, so we took them to officials of the Joint Task Force (JTF) on Operation Restore Order (ORO) for investigations,’’ Ibrahim said.

JTF spokesman, Lt.-Col. Sagir Musa, could not be contacted for comment, but a senior military officer, who spoke on condition of anonymity, confirmed the story.

The official said the JTF was already investigating the case.

Two feared dead in Lagos airport road crash

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WO persons were feared dead yesterday when two vehicles collided on the Murtala Muhammed International Airport Road.

According to sources around the airport, the accident involved two vehicles at the local wing end of the road.

A source hinted that an oncoming car was said have run into another car parked

By Kelvin Osa Okunbor

around the Air Force Base of the link road, about 200 meters to the domestic terminal (MMA2), killing the driver and a passenger.

The two persons were said to have died on the spot because of the speed with which the oncoming car rammed into the stationary vehicle.

The accident caused traffic jam, forcing many to reroute

their journey.

The dual carriageway leading in and out of the international terminal were blocked.

Most passengers connecting the international terminal from the Ikeja axis had to divert to other roads to connect the terminal.

It was learnt that the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) deployed an ambulance to evacuate the victims.

THE NATION MONDAY, JULY 1, 2013

85

FOREIGN NEWS

P

Egypt : Thousands stage anti-Morsi rallies

ROTESTS calling for the resignation of Egypt’s President Mohammed Morsi and early presidential elections have kicked off in the capital, Cairo, and around the country.

His opponents say he has failed to tackle economic and security problems.

Thousands spent the night in Cairo’s Tahrir Square, focus of protests which brought down ex-leader Hosni Mubarak.

The protests come on the first anniversary of Mr Morsi’s election as the country’s first Islamist president.

Morsi critics also say he has put the Islamist agenda of the Muslim Brotherhood party ahead of the country’s wider interests.

Many of those on the streets feel betrayed by a president who has been uninterested in uniting Egyptians despite once promising to be inclusive.

They feel that he has instead governed purely in the interests of his own party.

For his part, the president insists he has invited opposition groups to enter into dialogue but that they have not co-operated.

His supporters say that whatever the considerable problems Egypt is facing, Mohammed Morsi must see out his full term in office for the sake of stability.

The coming hours, and the way the situation is handled by the authorities, are likely to give us clear indicators as to whether or not Egypt’s president can survive in office as he insists he will.

His supporters insist that Mr Morsi was elected and say he should see out his full term in office while the opposition activists say more than 22 million people have signed a petition seeking a snap election.

They have urged the signatories to come out on Tahrir Square. The grassroots movement Tamarod (Rebellion) is behind the petition, which has united liberal and secular opposition groups, including the National Salvation Front.

LOSS OF DOCUMENT This is to inform the general public of the loss of original Certificate Of Sale dated 26th January 1982, Receipt of Payment No 057272 dated 28th August 1981 issued by LSDPC for the Purchase of 2 bedroom flat at No. 17 Taiwo Way, Surulere, Lagos in favour Mrs Olabisi Abike Kukoyi. If found, please return to Mrs. Olayinka Onamuti of 10 Fabolude Street, Akute. Lagos PUBLIC NOTICE

OKPEDENOTAPHA WOOD & TIMBER DEALERS ASSOCIATION This is to inform the general public that the above named Association has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission, Abuja for registration under Part C of the Company and Allied Matters Act 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. EDUGHOM TOBINS 2. ELDERSON ODOMS 3. JANUARY ONATE

- Secretary

- President - Vice President

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES : 1. To promote peace, progress and development among members.

2. To promote love, unity, peace and progress in our locality of operation.

3. To avoid unnecessary increase in prices in the market 4. To encourage mutual understanding between the buyers and the sellers 5. To be our brother’s keeper in matter of necessity 6. To bring together all members of Wood & Timber Dealers Association residing in Abua towards a common goal for the betterment of its members 7. To assist members financially 8. To encourage social activities amongst members 9. To train youths to be self employed Any objection to this publication should be forwarded to the Registrar General, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420 Tigris Crescent, Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

Signed: E. J. AMIOFORI, Esq.

Thousands of people have gathered in cities and towns across Egypt for mass protests aimed at forcing President Mohammed Morsi to step down.

However, many ordinary Egyptians - angered by Mr Morsi’s political and economic policies - are also taking part in the rally in Tahrir, where there are plans to march on the presidential palace.

Speaking in South Africa, US President Barack Obama urged “all parties to make sure they are not engaging in violence and that police and military are showing appropriate restraint”.

On Friday, US national Andrew Pochter and an Egyptian man were killed in Alexandria as protesters stormed an office of the Muslim Brotherhood.

Mr Pochter, who was in the country to teach English to children and improve his own Arabic, was killed apparently while using a mobile phone to take pictures.

His family said in a statement that he had been

stabbed by a protester while observing demonstrations.

Another man, said to be a journalist, was killed by an explosion in Port Said and five other people were injured.

President Morsi earlier this week offered a dialogue - a move rejected by his oppo-

A

nents. Mr Morsi, of the Muslim Brotherhood, became Egypt’s first Islamist president on 30 June 2012, after winning an election considered free and fair.

His first year as president has been marred by constant political unrest and a sinking economy.

Croatia joins EU

MID social pomp, pageantry and economic anxieties, Croatia joined the European Union on Sunday night. It became the 28th member of the regional body and the second of seven former Yugoslav republics to join.

The milestone occurred with celebrations at Zagreb, the nation’s capital, climaxing an extraordinary journey for the republic from the Balkan wars of the 1990s.

But after years in the economic doldrums, correspondents said few Croatians are in the mood to party.

The country of 4.4m is also joining a bloc deeply troubled and divided over its existing economic problems.

At midnight (22:00 GMT), EU signs will be unveiled at border crossings and customs duties will cease to be applied.

Celebrations will be held later on Sunday in the central square of the capital Zagreb, with speeches and music including Beethoven’s Ode to Joy, the European anthem.

There will be addresses by officials including President Ivo Josipovic and European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso - though German Chancellor Angela Merkel has pulled out of attending, saying she is busy, and the leaders of the UK and France will also be absent.

Somali rebel chief flown to Mogadishu

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NE of Somalia’s most prominent Islamist rebel commanders, arrested by a regional administration, was flown to the capital Mogadishu on Saturday, where he agreed to hold talks with the Federal Government about his fate, Somali officials said.

Sheikh Hassan Dahir Aweys, whose capture was a boost to Mogadishu in its battle against Islamist insurgents, was detained in central Somalia and then taken to the town of Adado.

Much of Somalia has been stabilized after two decades of turmoil by a campaign that drove back the militant group al Shabaab.

But the federal government, in charge for less than a year, is slowly working to extend its power and influence beyond Mogadishu with the help of the African peacekeeping troops on whom it relies for security.

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THE NATION MONDAY, JULY 1, 2013

87

WHO SAID WHAT

MONDAY, JULY 1, 2013 TRUTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM

VOL 8 NO 2,533

‘So many things are wrong in this country, and they are not still going wrong. So many things are not working because the leaders refuse to allow them to work’

C OMMENT & D EB ATE EBA

I

F you saw the Lagos State Governor, Babatunde Raji Fashola, SAN, in 2007, just before he ascended the throne, you need to see him today. Then he was a sprightly young man. Today, he looks like a sprightly young man, if you don’t look higher than his forehead. If you dare into that higher territory, into the forbidden region of his hair, you encounter age.

Once your eyes fall on the grey hair, you contemplate the contradiction. The hair belongs to another person, a comparative Methuselah, hoary, wizened, frail, going. Not to a 50-yearold, not to his eyes that light up his face like an audacious candle. Not his tongue that weaves through legalese, that cuts through policy like a wonk, that insists on good roads, on rule of law, on the revamped schools, on the Eko oni baje sing song. Not his feet, sometimes too martial for its lankiness, walking though city projects. Not his smile that belies the grit within.

With eyes dreamy, tongue razor sharp, his feet martial, the governor of example can live with his one handicap: the disappearing youth of the hair. But wait a minute. What does a disappearing hair tell us? That age has happened prematurely? That the eye however dreamy, mind however agile, tongue however sharp and feet however swift, the hair is a signature that the rest of the body is undergoing the same siege. We on the outside may never know.

But we only have the spirit to tell us. And the spirit, as we all know, is master of the flesh. And that is why, even if the hair tells us that Governor Fashola, is not the 50-yearold he looks, his works reflect the genius of the 50-year-old we expect. Or shall we say, his works are the grey hair. So when we see the massive infrastructure work he has done, the housing projects, the Trojan work on the rule of law, the work on education, it is the hair that tells us of the toll. The eyes lie, the tongues deceive, the feet walk astray, but the hair, in its luminous boldness, tells us that the man Fashola is the toiling governor we see every day.

His spirit, bubbly as ever, tells that matter is nothing. He works and he works and the body can tell its own story. The work is his spirit, the exertion, the exercise of the power within. It is like the words of Jimmy Carter in his autobiography when he defines old age as when “despair replaces hope.” So the grey hair may well be the liar here. Not the feet, or skin, imperious eyes or leaping feet.

Since he hopes all the time, in works and deed, for a better Lagos, the hair is the loser, not him, not Lagosians, not history.

SAM OMATSEYE

IN TOUCH

intouchsam@yahoo.com 08054501081(sms only) •NMMA Columnist of the Year

God’s graffiti

•Fashola Just the hair. When the hair fails, no despair.

The Bible says “the grey hair is the crown of glory,” but I doubt if it had the age 50 in mind. But if you see it as the crowning glory of a task, then Governor Fashola should feel blessed. His eyes, dreamy and triumphal, are cast on history. He wants it, even if he is coy about talking legacy, to be glorious and kind.

Winston Churchill, never one to shy from his stature in life, said in his famous growl, “history will be kind to me for I will write it.” Churchill actually put pen to paper and wrote chapter after chapter about his stewardships and others as well. But it is not what Churchill has written that has placed him in the front rank of all statesmen in history, it was

‘A leader will not bother about his grey hair when his name is becoming an idea rather than a reference to person. So Fashola has become, not only to ACN, but to other parties an instance of what you can do when given an opportunity to serve’ what he did. He rejigged pride in his island nation against the superior behemoth of Hitler’s army. He marshaled arms, diplomacy and the English language.

Fashola has been writing his legacy, and he still is. All over Lagos today, we see the handwriting in motion, in road work, in the trains undergoing tests to decongest commuting. We see it in his search for a decent society. The restriction of Okada was an instance of courage. Many thought it was heartless. Many thought it was elitist. Many thought it would raze down the city. No one countered the view that it saved lives and advanced the stride to a decent society. Governor Fashola, as Professor Itse Sagay noted, is not always about what we see, but the imponderables.

What we see can perish, but what we don’t

MOHAMMED SA’AD ABUBAKAR

see will endure: rule of law, decency, education standards, simple values like lack of ostentation in office. Roads decay just as integrity decays. Both are called corruption. But the decay of the latter is more damaging. Hence his emphasis on the latter.

A leader will not bother about his grey hair when his name is becoming an idea rather than a reference to person. So Fashola has become, not only to ACN, but to other parties an instance of what you can do when given an opportunity to serve. He turned 50 to great eclat not because he turned 50 but because he has turned the benefit of his half a century on earth to an eminent account. So his grey hair should be seen as “God’s graffiti,” apologies to Bill Cosby. If that is the story, then we can go back to the Proverbs assertion that it is the “crowning splendour.”

Fayemi’s Ikogosi School

F

OR two weeks, 50 graduate students gathered at the scenic Ikogosi warm springs to learn. That in itself was counterintuitive for Nigeria. We usually see such resorts as ambience of vanity. But there is room for that. Kayode Fayemi, the governor who knows, made it sublime. He brought bright Nigerian professors from Europe, South Africa and the United States to tutor Nigerian graduate students of Ekiti State origin in a wide variety of subjects. This was a tour de force for graduate schools in the country.

I learned that there was a huge contrast between what the students learned in the summer school and the daily digests from their local teachers. The students also privately admitted that. This is the tragedy of brain drain, and the summer school is designed to teach them how to keep abreast of the latest in research, thinking, debate and access to the higher reaches of knowledge in contemporary world.

Graduate school is about rigour, and they got loads of that at the summer school from our local imports. We cannot keep them here, so the summer school is the smartest to eat our cake and have it, to let the professors teach abroad and also teach here.

If we have this in the most elite of education, we can wonder what we have at the foundational levels. Education in Nigeria is our greatest tragedy today, and unless we tackle the quality of mind of the young in their malleable stage. That is why we must support moves like the summer school.

RIPPLES

HARDBALL

Investors to take over PHCN firms in October–BPE

Jona, Ama, the hunchback and the witchdoctor – a fable

And what of the workers...LIABILITIES?

O

NCE upon a time, when Hardball was not born, the fable goes that a certain hunchback, being weary of backing his life’s burden like a rusack, started to seek a cure for his condition. He had travelled the length and breadth of the land to no avail until he met this wily witchdoctor. Upon diagnosis, he opined that the hunch was not ordinary, that the mortal baggage was the result of the sin of his fathers now stacked on his back by the gods as a living testimony. There was antidote, of course, but precedent upon the condition that unlike his father, he was a good man.

I am a man of honour, he said promptly, you will find corroboration in the entire clan and beyond, he said frantically. Hold your peace, the medicine man said gently, the gods of the land do not seek corroboration; they are the story, from the beginning to the end. Was it not your fathers to the fifth generation who gathered this evil load you now have to lug about? Why is it your lot to carry it? Though you look innocent and benign, would you be one of those who have a good face and dark heart?

Would you kill in the bush and dash to the foot path and ask who has killed? If you are

not double-faced, do you forgive? Are you low and mean-spirited like a rapscallion?

You know the gods would forgive anything, even murder and serial adultery (which by the way has grown to a scourge around here), but not an unforgiving nature and meanness of heart. Not to forget is to play god and no man is god and our gods abhor any man playing god. To be mean and ungracious is to assume eternity. Only god is eternal and man, miserable man, will always come and go like the seasons. What is man to go to bed with grudges, with bitterness and ill-will towards another man?

Who does he think stir him back to life each day? Ah, man! Fleeting breath, morning dew, blooming flower that exfoliates in splendor and majesty only when its end is nigh!

Anyway, never mind the digression, I am no god myself, I only bear message. I will give you antidote to your hump but there is a caveat: if you are not the good man you pose to be, you will end up suffering double jeopardy because as you cure your hunch back, your stomach will protrude until… so do you still want the herbs? Yes indeed I want the herbs, the hunchback replied, the

•Hardball is not the opinion of the columnist featured above

whole village world can attest to my obvious good nature. Well then, replied the witchdoctor, here you are, take this bunch of herbs, warm it in an earthen pot and dab three times on your back in the morning and at night. Do it for seven days and present yourself let us see whether you are as much a good man, as you claim.

Hunchy promptly set about his treatment, but he had a ‘lump’ in his heart. Ten years ago a dainty young man had made off to town with the only woman that ever flashed him a hearty smile. He had never lived it down. The ‘sore’ had festered in his heart all these years and he would harm the young man the instant he sets his eyes on him. He is convinced he has justification to retaliate against this impudent young man. He kept soothing his back with warm herb. By the third day he could feel enormous relief on his back … but his stomach has become discomfiting. By the fifth day he could barely rise to his feet… the hunchback’s troubles, it seemed, had been brought forward. He could never present his self to the medicine man.

Never again… MORAL: be quick to forgive, shake hands, make up and move on because you are not god.

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